The Pharisees are fixated on the fact that Jesus healed the man on the Sabbath and missing the more significant and obvious miracle of a man being given the opportunity to see for the very first time.  The Pharisees clearly have an agenda and rigidly hold on to it despite the facts and that their perspective is literally missing the bigger picture.  .  The man who was once blind has not only gained his sight but is able to see more than the Pharisees who have always had their sight.  

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

Jesus reveals he's the Messiah only three times in the Gospels (here, to a Samaritan woman; and twice at his trial). He sees her wounds but also her resilience and faith. Despite pain, she's tied to her community.  I wonder if these qualities made her a good candidate for Jesus to share his true identity with her.

Unlike the sceptical Pharisees, she grasps who Jesus is—and leads her village to him. In John 4:40–42, the Samaritans invite him to stay two days. Many villagers believe through his words, telling her, "We no longer believe just because of what you said; we have heard for ourselves, and we know this is truly the Savior of the world."  This verse is incredible.   The people are converted by the preaching alone.  There is no record of miracles events – no healings or people getting fed.  The people are converted by the Word alone.  This is a different scenario from what Jesus usually experiences.

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

 The Transfiguration stands out from accounts of Jesus' healings and teachings. There's a group of miracles that feel different—perhaps even puzzling—but they're deeply spiritual. Consider Jesus walking on water and inviting Peter to join him (Matthew 14:22-33); calming the storm amid the disciples' pleas (Matthew 8:23-27; Mark 4:35-41; Luke 8:22-25); turning water into wine at a wedding (John 2:1-11); finding a coin in a fish's mouth for the temple tax (Matthew 17:24-27); or casting demons into a herd of pigs (Matthew 8:28-34; Mark 5:1-20; Luke 8:26-39). You might think of others.

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

 In today’s podcast we focus on Matthew’s account of Jesus completing 40 days in the desert.  It is not clear whether Matthew is drawing a connection between Jesus’ time in the desert and the Israelites wandering around in the desert for 40 years.  What is noteworthy is that we have Jesus being tempted by the devil.  The temptations give us insight into the heart and mission of Jesus. 

The first one is the devil suggesting that Jesus turn the stones into bread.  Jesus is clearly hungry.  He had fasted for a long time.  It would make sense, at least superficially, to use his power to regain his strength.  Jesus is not seduced by this reasoning and realized the ends did not justify the means.  

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

As we develop our faith life our view of the law will change from following the letter of the law to the spirit of the law.  Jesus was often critical of the Pharisees who lived by the letter of the law and chose not to recognize the purpose of the law. In Matthew 23:23, Jesus accused them of meticulously paying tithes on tiny herbs like mint, anise and cummin but ignoring "weightier matters" like justice, mercy, and faith, showing their focus on literal compliance over the Law's spirit.  Jesus called them "blind guides" for straining gnats (minor ritual impurity) from water while swallowing camels (major violations), highlighting disproportionate literalism on trivial purity laws Matthew 23:24.

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

In today’s Gospel Jesus describes living our faith in three metaphors that would be easily understood by the first listeners.  Also, I suspect the choice of the metaphors may have additional meaning too.

The first metaphor that Jesus uses is comparing the impact of faith on others to the impact of salt on seasoning our food.  The use of salt today has changed radically.  We still need salt to prevent such diseases as hyponatremia and impacting insulin absorption for diabetics.  Too much salt can lead to high blood pressure.  It is not unusual for physicians to suggest to their patients to reduce their salt intake.  I urge my listeners to hear these teachings in the context they were made.  2000 years ago, salt was a cherished commodity.   Salt was used in food to improve taste.  Other spices such as cinnamon and cumin were imported and available to the wealthy while other herbs and spices such as mint, thyme, garlic and onions were available to the average person.  Salt was still very important, and, in many cases, people were paid in salt (or used it as a form of currency in various ancient societies where it held high value for preservation and trade.  The word salary is from the word salt; reflecting the fact that many people were paid with salt.

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

In the podcast today we are introduced to a segment of the teachings of Jesus known as the Beatitudes.  The Beatitudes gives us insight into the mind of Jesus.  There is some debate about what Jesus actually meant but let’s look more closely.  The Beatitudes are also found in Luke’s Gospel with some differences. For example, the first Beatitude  is “Blessed are  the poor in spirit for theirs is the kingdom of heaven”.  

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

This Gospel describes the early beginnings of Jesus ministry.  The death of John the Baptist seems to be the trigger for Jesus, and he begins by inviting people to join him in his mission.  There are two points I want to draw your attention to.  In most cases one would expect the disciples to ask Jesus, but we have it the other way around.  Jesus is asking them.  It is noteworthy that Jesus is asking them so early in his ministry.  

Most of the disciples as far as we can tell were invited by Jesus for particular reasons, reasons that we can not be sure of.  We do know that its not because they were particularly good or that they had achieved any special accomplishment.  It is noteworthy to mention that we don’t have any record of Jesus inviting any of the Pharisees.  

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

The lesson for us is not to get alarmed if we have periods of doubt or question aspects of our faith.  As pointed out, these are signs of an adult faith.  I invite you to see doubts as an invitation to explore, to be curious, to question and be motivated to resolve the doubt.  The sad part is that so many people just hold the tension and do little or nothing with their doubts.  Some people are worried that their faith is weak and are reluctant to do anything or seek help.  This is probably the worst possible choice.  Check out the podcast about Disbelieving Thomas published on March 31, 2024.  St. Thomas and his doubt experience can provide insight into understanding those periods of doubt in our own faith journey.  John the Baptist’s faith life will be a source of spiritual hope for you.

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

Today’s edition focuses on the Baptism of Jesus by John the Baptist.  This is only recorded direct episode of Jesus interacting with John the Baptist.  To give you some context, John was inviting people to the Jordan River for a spiritual cleansing.  This spiritual cleansing has been referred to as Baptism.  John the Baptist was not the first to use this model of using water to wash away sin.  There are many examples in Scripture of special rituals used to described spiritual washing.  Two examples from the Hebrew Testament are Ezekiel 36:25 “I will sprinkle clean water on you, and you shall be clean from all your uncleanness.” From Isaiah 1:16 we have “Wash yourselves; make yourselves clean; remove the evil of your deeds from before my eyes.”  From the New Testament we have Hebrews 10:22, “Our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water.”  There are others but you get the point.   This raises the question, why did Jesus request a spiritual practise that was used to wash away sin when Jesus did not sin?

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

This Gospel speaks about the days after the birth of Jesus.  What should have been a joyous event has a very dark layer behind it.  In this account we have the Magi coming to acknowledge the birth of a king.  On this note I encourage my listeners to check out the editions of this podcast published on December 29, 2024, and December 30, 2023, where I speak about the Wisemen and the role they played.  The wisemen were looking for the infant who would be king of the Jews.  Even though the Star that was guiding them was according to tradition, a testimony that something very special was happening, there  is no indication that they actually thought or knew that they were some of the first witnesses  to recognize the birth of the Messiah.

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

In today’s Gospel we hear of another dream that Joesph had.  If you are joining us for the first time, I urge you to listen to last weeks podcast edition where I speak about the dreams that Joseph had.  I also recommend that you listen to the December 17th edition published in 2023 where I speak about Joseph’s mission.  Today   I want to speak about the dream that Joseph has.  In the dream Joseph is warned to flee to Egypt as the king was plotting to kill the child.  I want to draw your attention to fact that the angel directed Joseph to take the child to Egypt.  We never learn where in Egypt or how long they would live in Egypt.  I cannot help but wonder why Egypt?  There were many other countries or places Joesph could have been directed to go.  Don’t forget that the Jews had experienced slavery in Egypt.  The book of Exodus, one of the books in the Torah is devoted to the Jews gaining their freedom and embarking on reclaiming the promised land. Passover is one of the most widely observed and venerated Jewish holidays, embodying themes of freedom, faith, and community remembrance that are central to Jewish life and spirituality.  Yet, Egypt is the country chosen to protect the Messiah.  

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

In this podcast today I will be focusing on the dreams that Joseph had.  We don’t have much else on St. Joseph.  We don’t hear much about him after the birth of Jesus.  He is mentioned in the story of the finding in the temple when Jesus was 12 years old but that is it.  We learn that Joseph was a dreamer. There are four dreams recorded, outlining what   Joseph experienced.   In Matthew 1:16, 18-20, an angel appears in the dream instructing Joseph to take Mary as his wife, in Matthew 2:13-14 Joseph dreams that they are in danger so decide to flee to Egypt.  In Matthew 2:19-20 Joseph returns because in a dream he learns that it is now safe.  He has another dream Mt 2:22 instructing him to live in Galilee.  In each case Joseph makes a significant choice.  I am wondering if our dreams may also have an important place in our spirituality.

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

John was the Hearld of the Messiah.  His role was simple, increase the awareness of the people of the coming Messiah.  In the Gospel of John 3:30, John the Baptist says, "He must increase, but I must decrease," referring to Jesus Christ. This expresses John's understanding that his own role and influence were meant to diminish as Jesus' ministry and prominence grew. John’s statement reflects humility and the acknowledgment that Jesus must be exalted above all else.  I am curious why Jesus had a herald, someone to prepare for him.  Did Jesus need someone to prepare the people for the coming of the Messiah.  The people had been waiting for centuries.  I suspect that many prophets played an important role in supporting Jesus.

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

I focus on information from the Scriptures and try to figure out what likely was the back story.  I will attempt to explain more in detail as we unpack the life of John the Baptist.  I am very careful in using tradition and historical context to gain insight into biblical times.  Often tradition may have a political agenda and may not always be factual.  For example, Christian tradition holds that Herodias, fearing John might come back to life if body and head were together, had John’s head buried in Herod’s palace in Jerusalem. Islamic tradition believes the head of John the Baptist is buried under a specific pillar  in Damascus, Syria, which was once the Basilica of Saint John the Baptist. Some traditions also claim the head was buried on the Mount of Olives by Joanna, the wife of Chuza, where it remained hidden for centuries. Various relics purported to be of John have been claimed in several other places, including France, specifically Amiens Cathedral, Turkey, and other parts of the Middle East.  I think you can see why I will not be commenting on where John the Baptist is buried.

The good news is we can get more reliable insight to what the world was like from historians who lived and wrote at the time or shortly after the life of Jesus. 

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

I recognize that staying alert can be exhausting at times and there may be times when taking a break would be appropriate.  I highly recommend developing skills to reflect on our lives when we might not have been as alert as we needed to be.  Retreats, Devotions such as the Daily Examination of conscience, a prayerful reflection developed by St. Ignatius of Loyola may be helpful.   Other examples are spiritual direction, contemplative prayer, Lectio Divina which is a meditative reading and contemplation of Scripture that draws attention to God's word through slow, reflective reading and prayerful response.  These spiritual exercises help us compensate when we are not alert and need extra help to focus.  Developing a reflective stance is worth the cost.  Finding time and space in your life will not be easy for some.

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

This Gospel describes some of the last moments of the life of Jesus on Earth.  The Gospel seems more appropriate for Lent and Easter.  Jesus says very little.  He is dying on the cross, he is dismissed by the leaders who are responsible for his death.  The most interesting conversation is between the two condemned men who are being crucified with Jesus.  We do not know what their crimes were.  In those days it did not take much to be condemned to death.  We know nothing about the criminals. The two criminals take very different positions with Jesus.  The first one taunts Jesus but is rebuked by the second who seems to have an amazing understanding of who Jesus is.  It is ironic that the Pharisees with all their training in Scripture fail in recognizing Jesus as the Messiah yet here we have this criminal who is being executed but he is able to recognize who Jesus is.  The criminal is rewarded for his faith.  I suspect that the other criminal was pardoned too.  There is no limit in the willingness of Jesus to forgive.

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

Jesus warns us that we will be betrayed not just by anyone but by people who are close to us, family members.  Experiencing betrayal is unfortunately more common than we would like.  Being betrayed by those who are close to us is especially hurtful.  Betrayal undermines our ability to trust.  Have you ever experienced betrayal?

Betrayal is a prevalent theme in the Gospels.  From the moment Jesus was born there was betrayal.  I direct you to Matthew 2: 1-12 where the wisemen who have tracked the star to Bethlehem ask King Herod where the infant king of the Jews is.  After consulting with his advisors, he tells the wisemen to go find the child and report back to him so can go and give homage.  The scheme almost worked but the wisemen are warned in a dream not to go back to Herod.  King Herod lied to the wisemen to get information from them so he could kill the child.  He betrayed the wisemen who had made it clear to Herod that their intention was to pay homage to the child not set him up to be killed. 

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

Todays Gospel  is quite different from most others.  In this Gospel we have Jesus aggressively driving the money changes and sellers out of the temple.  At first glance it is quite different from Jesus’ usual way.  There are no immediate teachings, healings or witty dialogue.  It is clear that Jesus is passionate about his faith, and he is not willing to compromise.  Professor David Landry of the University of St. Thomas and many other biblical scholars suggest that "the importance of the episode is signalled by the fact that within a week of this incident, Jesus is dead”. This event likely functioned as the 'trigger' for Jesus' death.  The Scribes and Pharisees tolerated Jesus.   They did not like the fact that Jesus was popular with the people, his insightful teachings and the fact that Jesus won every debate with them.  It was not until Jesus attacked their financial interests did, they escalate their intentions to stop him.  Before I go any further, should  you wish to follow up on this theory, I invite you to check out David Landry’s article "God in the Details: The Cleansing of the Temple in Four Jesus Films". published in 2009 in the Journal of Religion & Film. 

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

There are three stories in the Gospels where Jesus raises someone from the dead.  We have the story of Lazarus being raised (John 11:38-44), Jarius’ 12-year-old daughter being raised as recorded in (Mark 5:21-43, Luke 8:40 and Matthew 9:18-26) and now in today’s Gospel we hear about Jesus raising the son of a widow in a town called Nain.  What is interesting in this Gospel is how few facts we have about the story.  In the two previous resurrection stories we have names, and we are made aware of some background information, and we are provided teachings but not here.  It’s clear that this resurrection was not planned.  If Jesus had arrived an hour earlier or the funeral was an hour later there would have been no miracle.  

What does this mean?

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

So, we overhear the prayers of two very different men.  One man, the Pharisees has done a lot and includes what he has done in a list expecting I guess to impress God.  He was doing okay until he compared himself to the tax collector.  The second man, the Tax collector has said little but admits to his wrongdoing and is truly sorry.  It must have come as a shock to the first listeners to this parable.  There are several points to this story.  Appearances can be deceiving.   It’s important not to rush to judgement.  Also, despite the tax collector’s past he did have one thing the Pharisee lacked and that is the awareness of who he was.  I wonder if being aware of where we need to grow and change in our lives is important for the development of our spirituality.  I am not talking about being self deprecating but choosing rather to seek self awareness and humility that might be critical in the development of our spirituality.  Likely the Pharisee was not aware that he had completely missed the values of the practice of his faith.  Because of his lack of self-awareness, it is likely that he will not see the need for personal growth or recognize opportunities in his life to grow.

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

In the Gospel of Luke 18:6-8 Jesus is teaching his disciples to pray always.  He uses a short parable of a woman seeking justice from a corrupt judge.  The woman successfully hassles the judge, wearing him down to finally getting the justice she was seeking.  Jesus makes the interesting point that how much more will God grant what we ask if only we remain steadfast in our prayers.  This raises many questions.  Why does God often delay in answering our prayers?   I seriously doubt that God enjoys watching us wait.  I wonder then if there is some value in waiting.

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

In today’s Gospel we read about a healing, specifically the healing of ten people with leprosy.  Although this account is about people getting healed of a dreaded disease it is  what happens after the healing that is most significant.  Let’s take a step back to help put this Gospel in perspective.  Leprosy or now known as Hansen’s Disease was a dreaded disease back in biblical times.  There was no cure, and the method of transmission was not well understood.  Individuals suspected of having leprosy were shunned from their family and community.  They were required to shout “unclean unclean” anytime they were close to people.  As a psychologist I am concerned about the impact this had upon  their self worth and esteem.  To make matters worse, there was no clear diagnostic criteria, so anyone with a skin issue, hives, eczema, or even acne ran the risk of receiving a diagnosis of leprosy.  Because of this lack of clarity, it is not surprising that we read that leprosy was mentioned so often in the Bible.

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

In today’s Gospel Jesus is asked by his disciples on how to increase their faith.  It looks like the disciples are finally understanding the ministry of Jesus.  Remember the story of the rich young man found in Matthew 19:16 who asks Jesus what does he need to do to inherit eternal life?  It was a fair question but where is the focus?   The rich young man was focussed on getting what he wants.  The question on how to increase one’s faith is focussed on deepening the relationship between Jesus and the disciples.  That question alone indicates spiritual growth and understanding of the ministry of Jesus.

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

In today’s Gospel, Jesus shares a profoundly interesting parable. I would like to examine it further and in detail.  In the parable, Jesus introduces the rich man, we do not know his name, but he wears purple, the color of royalty and feasts, not just on special holidays but every day.  We then learn about Lazarus, a poor man.  Unlike the rich man, Lazarus has a name.  We would expect people to describe the rich man as the one having the name, but we know Jesus frequently reversed social order to make a point or have his listeners see the issue from a unique perspective.  Remember the line in Matthew 20:16, “the first shall be last and the last shall be first”. Lazarus is very hungry and longed to feed on the crumbs that fell from the rich man’s table.   Notice that Lazarus never speaks throughout.  He is the example of the poor and voiceless in our society.  The rich man likely knew about the state Lazarus was in as Lazarus lived on his doorstep not somewhere on the other side of town.  We know the only friends Lazarus had were the dogs who licked his sores.  Dogs usually lick the people they like and bite or growl at the people they do not like.

The contrast between Lazarus and the rich man are clear and profound.

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

Today's Gospel highlights the importance of consistency and faithfulness, even in the small things. I find Jesus’ teaching about serving two masters particularly thought-provoking. Often, it feels like we have more than two masters competing for our time and energy. From my perspective, many people drift away from their faith not out of rejection of God, but because other responsibilities and distractions take priority. Family, career, and community are just a few of the demands that require our attention. While dedicating ourselves to these is certainly valuable, there are additional aspects of our lives that also deserve careful consideration.

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

Today’s Gospel from John focusses on a conversation Jesus had with Nicodemus.  To give you some important background information, Nicodemus was a Pharisee.  Scripture scholars remind us that despite the negative portrayal of Pharisees in the Gospels not all the Pharisees were against Jesus.  Yes, there was a small group that were against Jesus and looked for every opportunity to discredit him.  But, there were a few like Nicodemus who were drawn to Jesus’s message and wanted to understand his ministry.  Of course, there was likely a larger group who were quite indifferent to Jesus and his message.  One of the points I am trying to make is that Nicodemus was different from the usual followers of Jesus.  He was well educated in Jewish law and was dedicated to grow in his faith. Jesus challenges Nicodemus in a very different way.

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

For someone not familiar with Jesus’ style of teaching this Gospel would be shocking.  I suspect the Gospel would be shocking for the first listeners. It completely contradicts the 5th commandment about honouring one’s parents Exodus 20:12.  While there are no actual scriptural references from Jesus there are Gospel references of Jesus showing love to his parents. In Luke 2:48-51, Jesus as a boy shows respect and honour to Mary and Joseph, his earthly parents by returning to them after being found in the temple and submitting to their authority. In John 19:26-27, from the cross, Jesus shows care and concern for his mother by entrusting her to the disciple John, demonstrating his protective love. 

We have talked about this style of teaching before.  

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

Today’s Gospel begins with Jesus accepting an invitation to dine with one of the leading Pharisees. During this gathering, Jesus shares a teaching inspired by His observations that challenges the conventional understanding of social status. He emphasizes a reversal of worldly status through humility. But what exactly did Jesus mean by humility?

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

Luke’s Gospel is very typical of Jesus style.  We have read events where Jesus takes an accepted view, custom, or perception and reinterprets into something different.  Often when Jesus is asked a question, he invites the questioner into a deeper meaning.  What exactly did Jesus mean when he talks about the narrow gate.  Let’s look further.  Jesus asks if many will be saved.  Likely behind that question is the more personal question, Will I be saved?  The question is a result of the individual’s uncertainty and maybe a bit of fear.  Unfortunately for many, the cornerstone of their faith is rooted in fear that they will be judged as not meeting to what they perceive as God’s demanding and arbitrary standards.  No wonder they find loving God difficult or their relationship with Him irrelevant.

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

This passage might seem surprising—even unsettling. Here, we don’t see the serene, peaceful Jesus, but instead a passionate figure intensely devoted to his mission and faith. I believe Jesus is speaking metaphorically when he refers to fire—using it to symbolize the fervor and intensity he expects in our faith lives. He was not passionate about a lukewarm faith. In Revelation 3:14-16, Jesus rebukes the church in Laodicea precisely for their half-hearted devotion.

Jesus knew faith wasn’t always going to bring peace. History is full of conflicts between religious groups, and even today, faith can stir up internal struggles as we grapple with conscience and the demands of modern life. Jesus even warns of conflict within families—something that, sadly, many of us know: religious convictions can unite, but also divide families. Feeling unsupported by loved ones can be especially painful.

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

In this Gospel we learn that the Father is pleased to give you the kingdom, this is incredible!  The kingdom is given, not earned but a free gift.   This is not the only such reference,  in Luke 13:29 we read that "people will come from all over the world—from east and west, north and south—to take their places in the Kingdom of God,".  Jesus says this before his death and resurrection.  God knows that love cannot be forced nor develop in fear.  This is the Good News!  

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

We have someone asking Jesus to help settle his case, to judge the merits of an inheritance dispute.  Jesus does not take the bait and makes it clear to the individual that he is not here to judge.  This is a valuable reminder to people who so often see God as one who judges and punishes.  Jesus is very clear about his role.  

Jesus tells a parable of a man with a bountiful harvest who decides to store his grain and live well for a few years.  No one can blame him for wanting to take it easy.  He is given an opportunity, and he takes it, what then is the issue?  Actually, there are several issues.

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

The disciples of Jesus note that John the Baptist has taught his disciples to pray.  They had likely seen Jesus pray or go off to a lonely place to pray so they are curious.  Jesus gives them direction and insight into prayer.  These “instructions” have become a prayer, the well know  Lord’s Prayer or the Our Father. 

Prayer is very important for growth in our spiritual life.  Before I talk about prayer, I invite you to reflect on why you want to pray.  My second question is related; how do you know that you have been praying?  Finally, what are the obstacles to your prayer life?

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

Mary, Martha and their brother Lazarus were friends of Jesus and they are frequently mentioned in the Gospels.  We don’t have any record of anythng that Lazarus said but he is one of the three people in the Gospels that Jesus raised from the dead. The biblical record identifies these three explicit resurrection miracles performed by Jesus before his own resurrection. 

The story of Mary and Martha has often been used to justify the position that contemplation is more important than service.  I am not sure that is the most accurate interpretation. 

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

In today’s Gospel Jesus is asked by a lawyer what must he do to inherit eternal life.  The question is direct and honest, unlike many of the questions of the Pharisees and Sadducees that are often multi layered and are intended to trap Jesus rather learn from him.  Jesus answers directly by asking him about the Law.  This was understandable as the man was a lawyer.  The man goes further and asks Jesus who is his neighbour.  Jesus answers him with a parable that has become one of the most well-known of all his parables, the parable of the Good Samaritan.  

Jesus mentions that a priest and Levite walked by and did not help.  You would expect them to help you.  But they did not.  As a priest I am saddened, likely they did not want to touch him as his blood would make them ritually unclean.  It is disappointing that their self-concern prevented them from offering to help the man in need.  

The biggest shock of all to the first listeners would be the man who helped him was a Samaritan.  I am sure this shocked many people. 

I recognize that the decision to help is not as straight forward and that helping can be inconvenient and sometimes will cost us.  Living this parable may not be as easy as we would like.  Sometime we have to put boundaries and limits around how we can help 

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

This story is unusual because we have two distinct parts.  The first part focusses on the advice Jesus gives his disciples and the second part focusses upon their return.    When the 72 return,, they are rejoicing after what appears to be a most successful mission..  They are excited about what they saw.   It is noteworthy that the first thing the 72 disciples share is about their power.  The evil spirits were subservient to them.  Jesus redirects them and points out that they should be more excited as their names are listed in heaven.  Yes, its power over evil but we are still talking about power.   I am reminded of the phrase attributed to Lord Acton in 1887, "Power tends to corrupt, and absolute power corrupts absolutely".  Lord Acton was a 19th-century British historian and moralist.  Jesus was aware that power can undermine spiritual growth.  

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

Who is Jesus for you?

Jesus asked this question to his disciples.  We all know by now that when Jesus asks a question, he already knows the answer and a teaching follows.  Today’s reading is no  exception.  Jesus asks his disciples “Who do people say that the Son of Man is?”   Jesus gets a variety of answers, most people think he is a prophet who has resurrected from the dead.  Jesus responds with a new question and takes the questioning to a deeper level as He askes, “Who do YOU say that I am?”. 

Your answer matters!

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

Today, our podcast focusses on one of the multiplication of loaves miracles.  Luke begins describing the story with Jesus  healing those who needed to be cured.  It appears it’s the end of the day, so the disciples want to send the people into the villages to get something to eat and possibly seek lodging. 

Rather than sending the people away Jesus suggests that the disciples feed them.  This is a beautiful example of when the divine meets our earthly understanding.  

Everything for Jesus is a teachable moment.  The disciples answer him literally, just five loaves and two fish, certainly not enough to feed 5,000 people.  They offer another solution of buying the food, but they realize they do not have the resources for this.  The lesson is clear; often a human solution is not enough, and we need the intervention of the Spirit.  

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

The opening section of this Gospel brings to mind 1 Corinthians 13:11, where Paul uses the metaphor of childhood to describe spiritual immaturity: “When I was a child, I spoke like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put away childish things.” Spiritual immaturity refers to a stage in which a believer has not yet developed a mature understanding or practice of faith. It is characterized by a lack of discernment between sound doctrine and false teachings, as well as difficulty applying biblical truths in daily life. Spiritually immature believers may exhibit behaviors such as jealousy, strife, selfishness, and a worldly mindset, rather than reflecting Christlike character.

Spiritual immaturity is a natural stage in the Christian journey—no one is born spiritually mature—but Scripture urges believers not to remain in this state. It is important to note that spiritual immaturity is not limited to children; many adults also struggle with it. 

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

To help us understand the Holy Spirit, the reading begins by emphasizing God’s love for us—a recurring and familiar theme in John’s Gospel.

Love inherently involves vulnerability. The more deeply we love, the more at risk we are to being hurt. This vulnerability makes trust essential in any relationship. Trust can be given or earned, and violations of trust can sometimes be irreparable. Conversely, trust built through consistent caring and faithfulness strengthens relationships, though some may find it harder to build trust due to past wounds. 

The Gospel speaks of a profound intimacy between God and those who love Him. Jesus often seeks out those who do not yet know Him, but today’s focus is on His longing to be with His people. 

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

Jesus makes some incredible claims, and provides  signs of God’s presence amongst his followers, driving out demons, speaking new languages, picking up serpents, drinking poison and miraculous healings, only to name a few.  This passage reminds me of the dramatic style of teaching Jesus used to introject passion into his teachings.  Remember the scripture passage that speaks of "the dead burying  the dead" found in Luke 9:60. Do you remember the scripture passage that speaks of cutting off your hand if it causes you to sin that is found in Matthew 5:29-30 and Mark 9:43-48?  Quite dramatic!

What did Jesus mean?  

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

Love is a central and recurring theme in John’s Gospel, and it has been a focus in previous episodes. Love lies at the core of Christian faith. However, I invite you to reflect on whether your image of God is one that is easy to love. Many identify as Christians out of a desire for salvation yet seeking salvation and loving God are not synonymous.

Concerns about salvation often reflect one’s understanding of God. The traditional concept of God demanding the death of His Son as a sacrificial atonement can be difficult to reconcile with the idea of a loving God. While this notion may have resonated in earlier times, many today struggle to accept that redemption is a freely given gift rather than something earned. Genuine love cannot be compelled; it must come from the heart. God desires our love, not merely our outward actions. This may explain why Jesus was able to forgive so readily-He perceived the true condition of the person’s heart.

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

Jesus’ call to love is not easy, people are so afraid of being taken advantage of or they do not feel love for the person.  Is Jesus calling his followers to something they cannot achieve?  Are people who are loving more vulnerable to being taken advantage of?  Some people act as if they have a finite amount of love to give and so don’t love easily.  Rather than focussing on the challenge of loving, I want to focus on your attitudes and skills that may help you respond to Jesus’ call.  I can appreciate the challenges so I would like to make suggestions to help you be a more loving person and thus closer to responding to the call to love one another.

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

Jesus portrays shepherds as protectors and guides for the sheep.  Likely they served as metaphors of God’s protective and guiding nature.  I wonder if there is more here.  Perhaps the shepherd has a role to play in our faith.  We don’t see many shepherds in most western towns and cities.   When I think of shepherds, I think of individuals who knew and protected their sheep.  They were very interested in their welfare and wanted to see them grow into adults.  It seems that the modern-day shepherds are  what we call mentors today.  

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

This teaching on leadership must have been revolutionary to the first listeners to this teaching.  Jesus addresses this in Mark 10:42-45, as Jesus called them together and said, "You know that those who are regarded as rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be slave of all.”  The people were used to the brutality of the Roman occupiers and the contempt of many of the Pharisees who dominated the people and loved to draw attention to themselves.  Obviously, Jesus wants to make sure there are other models of leadership available.  The leadership style that Jesus introduces is relational, respecting the dignity of the human person.   

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

Peace is not just an absence of conflict.  Lasting peace needs justice.  There are also several levels of peace.  There is peace between countries, communities, families and ultimately our own internal peace.  Most of us are not in a position to directly impact peace between countries but we can work for peace within our communities, our families and ultimately ourselves.  Are we at peace within ourselves?   What negatively impacts our personal peace.  Guilt,  fear, and trauma will undermine our peace.  Notice what I left out.  Anger.  Anger itself does not destroy peace.  What is anger?  Healthy anger  results when our healthy expectations that are not respected and/or are denied.  Anger itself is not the issue but it is how we express our anger.

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

This Gospel is one of the early resurrection stories.  We read about Mary of Magdala going to the tomb, knowing that she would not likely be able to go into the tomb because it would be blocked by a huge stone; but she went anyway.  She gets to the empty tomb and understandably believes the body has been taken away.  Later she would recognize Jesus.  Getting back to this story Peter, the leader and another disciple hurry to the tomb.  John the youngest does not go in and he respectfully waits until Peter goes in first.  They believe.  Honestly, I find it strange.  Just because the body is not there does not mean that it is resurrected.  I suspect that Peter belief was based on what Jesus had taught him.  I have often spoke about having the eyes of faith.  Peter did not fully understand the significance of the resurrection, but he had enough faith and experience to recognize that Jesus had risen.   

This resurrection passage describes the response to the resurrection by adults.  I encourage you to see this as an opportunity to learn about what is an adult faith. 

I put before you for your reflection, but I would argue that asking questions, struggling to believe is not a bad thing.  Yes, we might like the surety of a child-like faith, but faith was never meant to be without struggle.  

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

This Gospel is an account of the last meal Jesus had with his disciples.  The meal is better known as the last supper.  Soon Jesus' earthly mission will be over.  The disciples do not realize yet that this evening is going to take a very different turn.  

I wonder what Jesus was feeling.  We read that he was in agony in the garden but what was he feeling when he is having this last meal with his disciples?  Did he try to tell them, to leave hints as to what were his plans?  I wonder if the disciples’ sensed anything different.  I suspect Jesus was probably a bit sombre.  He knew he was going to have a horrible death in less than 24 hours.  Did he wonder if there was another way to achieve his mission?  I suspect he felt terribly alone.  

This passage reminds us that although we often  call upon friends and family for support in times of distress we must  also recognize divine support as well.  It is a reminder that we  don’t have to deal with life’s struggles alone.  But are we open to divine support?  

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

Today’s Gospel is a teaching, Gospel.  Its also unusual.  In most instances the person seeks out Jesus or recognizes him before asking for something.  I suspect the woman in this story wanted to be anywhere else but there.   She was not only embarrassed but terrified.  Without Jesus’ intervention she faced a painful death.   She has a brief but powerful conversation with Jesus. And that is it!  We don’t know who this woman was.  What’s her story or what happened to her after this experience.  

What about the men who were prepared to stone her.  Some of them may have known her, after all they did live in a small town.    The Scribes and Pharisees were educated and well established in their community.  How is it they missed being compassionate towards her and/or fail to recognize the injustices?

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

Jesus describes a young man who wants adventure and asks for his share of his father’s estate.  After he receives his inheritance, he leaves and lives a carefree life.  I want to draw your attention to the fact that he did not earn the money he is spending, it is his father’s hard-earned money.  This would be a good time to pause and reflect on the many opportunities that we enjoyed but did not earn. 

 Coming back to the story we learn that initially the son did okay, but his fun did not last, and calamity struck.  He squandered his resources and was forced to get a job.  Hearing that his job was tending the pigs surely raised the eyebrows of the first listeners of this story.  Likely the Jewish listeners with their aversion to pigs would have seen this action in the young man as turning his back on his own  culture and community.  

Jesus continues the story but focusses on the father.  The father notices his son from far away.   He is so excited that he runs to meet his son.   This would have been very surprising to the Jewish listeners.  Jewish patriarchs do not run, especially toward a wayward son.  The son gives his rehearsed apology.  The father responds by hugging his son and putting a ring on his finger.  The ring symbolizes the son being restored in the household.  While the son is focusing on what he did and what he didn’t do the father is focusing on the fact that his son is back safe and sound.  Not only is the son forgiven but a party is being planned.

The story does not end here.  There is an older son...  

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

In this Gospel Jesus talks about two situations where innocent people were killed.  Jesus articulates the thoughts of the people who believed that the people who were killed were not only responsible for their misfortunate but that their bad luck was likely a result of God punishing them.  Jesus challenges this “blaming the victim’ stance.   This theme, namely  that misfortune is a sign of sin is very clear in (John 9:1-23) where Jesus heals a blind man.  Before he does ,the disciples ask Jesus who sinned, was it the man or his parents that lead to this man’s blindness?  Jesus corrects his disciples saying that this man’s blindness had nothing to do with sin.  

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

This Podcast focusses on one of the most unusual Gospel passages of all the Gospels; the Transfiguration.  Moses and Elijah appear with Jesus in front of  Peter, James and John.  The event seems unexpected and following  the event the disciples are silent about the experience.  They don’t tell anyone.  How could they possibly explain to someone what they saw and then expect to be believed?  

Those that have experienced spiritual or even mystical experiences know the difficulty of trying to share and/or describe the experiences to someone.  Words don’t seem to be adequate to describe what happened.  Even today, 2000 years later we are unable to understand what happened and maybe we are not supposed to. Perhaps the Transfiguration is a reminder that God’s ways are different from ours. 

Perhaps the Transfiguration is a reminder that God’s ways are different from ours. 

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

We don’t know for sure what Jesus actually did while he was in the desert. In biblical times, going to the desert held significant spiritual, symbolic, and practical meanings. Here are some key aspects of its significance. The desert was often a place where individuals were prepared for their destinies. The desert offered solitude, which was conducive to reflection and prayer.  John the Baptist like so many others, used this solitude to prepare for his ministry.  This period allowed for spiritual growth and purification. The desert environment was harsh and so fostered a sense of dependence on God, emphasizing humility as a prerequisite for spiritual understanding. The desert provided a setting for direct communication with God, free from distractions.  We have many examples of Jesus going to a deserted place to pray.  This is evident in the stories of Abraham, Moses, and Jesus, who all had significant encounters with God in the desert.  The Israelites faced numerous challenges during their 40-year journey. This symbolism highlights the desert as a proving ground for faith. Despite its harsh conditions, the desert was where God demonstrated His provision and faithfulness. The Israelites received manna and quail, illustrating God's care for His people especially in the time of hardship. In summary, the desert in biblical times was a place of spiritual transformation, symbolic testing, and practical demonstration of God's presence and provision.

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

Jesus is calling his followers to be wise.  He gives a few tools on how to be wise.  The list is not complete.  What is wisdom?  Wisdom is correlated with intelligence but its not absolute.  I suspect you may know someone who is highly educated but not wise, often making the same mistake over and over again.  On the other hand, you may know someone else who may not have all the academic or educational credentials but nevertheless are considered to be   wise.  Wisdom is often associated with advanced age.  It is true, people who have embraced life are often wise.   Individuals of any age who have gone through a crisis whether it is health, or relationship or career often reflect a wisdom beyond their years.   So, what then is wisdom?  I can share a few insights.  Wise people have learned from their life experiences, they perceive life events differently.  They trust themselves and have little to prove.  They are often not in a hurry to bring issues to closure.

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

Christians are called to go beyond the bare minimum.  Let’s unpack this Gospel, love your enemies, do good to those who hate you.  Bless those who curse you.  Tough words.  The basic message is Jesus telling the people that your actions should be based on your personal values not a reaction to someone else’s bad behavior.  The teaching is a call to freedom.  Sure, it hurts when someone mistreats you, this is especially true if that someone was someone you trusted.  Yes, they may deserve retribution but its not about them.  Yes, they and others may initially think you are weak for not retaliating.  They may not see that you are making a choice, its not because you cannot defend yourself.  The irony here is you are strong; you are resisting the impact of their injurious behavior.

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

The Beatitudes are not merely statements of happiness; they encapsulate profound spiritual truths about God's kingdom and our spiritual development. They highlight qualities such as humility, mercy, and a thirst for righteousness, promising future rewards for those who embody these traits. Consequently, the Beatitudes are foundational teachings outlining the ethical and spiritual framework for Christian spirituality. They can be found in Matthew 5:3-12, with notable differences between Matthew's and Luke's versions—Matthew includes eight Beatitudes while Luke lists only four and includes criticisms of the wealthy.

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

The call of Peter and the other disciples illustrates God's invitation for us to follow Him. Despite his initial reluctance and desire to return home after a long night of fishing, Peter allows Jesus into his boat. This kind of openness is crucial for our own spiritual growth.

I want to emphasize the moment when Jesus asks Peter to lower his nets for a catch—this serves as both a literal task and a metaphor for spiritual growth. The saying "80% of success is showing up," attributed to Woody Allen the American filmmaker and actor, encapsulates the importance of taking that first step toward personal or spiritual growth. By showing up despite his doubts, Peter exemplifies the openness necessary for spiritual development. Are we willing to go beyond our comfort zone?

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

When Jesus was presented in the temple, it was likely an ordinary event among many similar presentations each week. However, Simeon and Anna's ability to perceive something extraordinary suggests that spirituality often eludes those who do not actively seek it. What insights did they possess that others lacked? This passage prompts us to consider whether God communicates with us through the mundane aspects of our daily lives.

It's noteworthy that neither Anna nor Simeon held any official position within the temple community; they were not leaders or figures of authority. This indicates that anyone—regardless of status—can cultivate a direct relationship with God. The reading challenges those in leadership or theological roles to recognize that the Spirit operates beyond traditional boundaries.

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

During Sabbath services, it was customary for males to read from Scripture or the Torah. Jesus reads from the scroll of the prophet Isaiah, which is significant because Isaiah made many prophecies about the Messiah.  The Gospel of Matthew speaks about how these prophecies are fulfilled.   This reading serves as a blueprint for Jesus’ ministry.   Even though Jesus is reading from the prophet Isisia  The reading  seems to be in  Jesus own words.  In fact, it appears that Jesus is reading his own mission statement.

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

The Gospel today is about the first miracle that Jesus performed. It is unique. There are no healings, or obvious teachings. The teaching is actually rather subtle. Jesus makes wine for a wedding at the request or expectation of his mother. There are a few points that I want to draw your attention to because they are useful teachings about spirituality. The first is the amount of wine made, the six stone water jars contained 20 to 30 gallons each. That is approximately 120 to 360 gallons of wine in total.  That is a lot of wine! 
I want to draw your attention to the conversation between the groom and the wine steward or in some translations the head  waiter. Have you ever had the experience of someone telling you something fairly basic that you already knew? .  For  example, the groom already knew what the wine steward was trying to explain. The point that I want to make is that while there was nothing actually wrong with what the wine steward said he nevertheless failed to recognize God’s intervention.   Do we, like the wine steward, miss God's interventions in our life?

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

In Luke’s Gospel we have a brief description of Jesus being baptized by his cousin, John the Baptist. The details are scarce. We don’t know why Jesus chose to participate in this ritual or how it impacted his ministry.  This story is problematic however, as this ritual was designed for sinners, why would Jesus who had not sinned be participating in this ritual? 

This is a good lesson for us in that while we may have the right to do something we ought to also  take into account  the impact that  our actions may have upon others.

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

In today’s Gospel the arrival of the Magi is noted.  This Gospel is full of symbolism about who Jesus would be.  Some biblical traditions list the Magi as kings and some traditions have even named them, Caspar (or Gaspar), Melchior, and Balthazar.  Likely, this naming is primarily derived from Western Christian tradition.  Its highly unlikely that three kings would have gone  into the desert alone without an entourage for protection.  Likely if three kings showed up in a small town everyone would soon know and King Herod would not have had  to rely on the Magi to find out exactly where Jesus was.  The gifts brought by the Wise Men give  us a hint and foretell  the ministry of Jesus. Gold representing royalty, frankincense symbolizing divinity, and myrrh foreshadowing suffering and death.

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

I like to do something special for Lent and Advent. Last Easter I set up an internet retreat. This Christmas season I want to talk about the spirituality of New Years Resolutions. I feel very strongly about this. I am surprised the Church doesn’t say more about New Years Resolutions.  I believe there is something spiritual happening when people at the end of the year look at their lives and make decisions about where they can do better or acknowledging where they are being held back.  In many cases they attempt to make changes. Sadly, they are seldom successful. 

Many people do not realize that they may be self sabotaging their plans to achieve their goals. 

Making changes in one’s life is not easy. We are creatures of habit. I would like to provide some direction for those who would like to have their Resolutions result in positive changes in their life. 

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

The Gospel today is quite different from our usual readings. It is a story from when Jesus was a twelve-year-old boy.  This Gospel story is likely every parent’s nightmare; having one of their children lost. I can hardly imagine what Mary and Joseph were going through during those 3 days of searching for their son, Jesus. It seems that Jesus knew early in his life or  might have had some insight into his true identity. The problem is that he did not share his plans with his parents when he decided to remain in Jerusalem at the temple. It makes sense that a 12-year-old child may not fully understand the implications and indeed the consequences of his actions on others. Still, as the Gospel suggests he had to grow into a better understanding of his mission. I wonder if he was ready to start his ministry at the age of twelve! That was not meant to be at this time. It would be another 18 years before Jesus would begin his public ministry. This maturing process was necessary for Jesus. This was not just a period of waiting; important maturing aspects were going on. 

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

In today’s podcast we have Mary visiting her cousin Elizabeth.  There are several points in this Gospel I want to point out.  We have Mary who is pregnant herself going to help her cousin Elizabeth  .  Mary’s sense of service is obvious. 

We know that Elizabeth  was likely past childbearing years.  She was not able to have a child in a culture that expected women to have children, Many people  looked down on women who were childless.  Elizabeth   is not the only one from the Bible who struggled with infertility.  

Elizabeth is an excellent example of being meek.   We don’t know much about Elizabeth, but I suspect she had her struggles.  Being considered barren must have been hard for her.   Elizabeth handled herself well and remained faithful to God despite the fact that it would appear God was not answering her prayers.  She is truly an example of what meekness is all about.  She is also strong; she can and does speak her truth confidently and succinctly   when the time comes.  Her faithfulness under pressure is admirable.  

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

In this podcast from Luke, we hear more about John the Baptist.  John is giving advice to individuals who want to change their life to reflect their beliefs.  These individuals realize that their faith is not just practiced on holy days but will also impact their behavior at work and at home. 

There are a couple of key points that I want to draw your attention to.  When asked what to do John doesn’t say, pray more or sin less or give more money to the Temple.  Do you notice that all of his advice involves how to respectfully relate to other people?  

John treats everyone the same.  It doesn’t matter what their profession is.   In most cultures including our own, professions are ranked from least to most prestigious.   That means nothing to John.  All work is honorable.  The people are called to do an honest day’s work.  Sometimes we are fortunate, and the job has meaning or purpose.  Other times people work for the money.  They work to live.  They find purpose outside of work.  But, even if you are working simply for the moony, there is still honor there. 

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

In today’s podcast we are introduced to John also known as John the Baptist not to be confused with the apostle John, the beloved disciple.  John the Baptist was related to Jesus, his mother Elizabeth and Mary, the mother of Jesus were first cousins.  Likely John and Jesus knew each other growing up.  John is seen as the one prophesized by the great prophet Isaiah to prepare the people to receive the Messiah.  Matthew 3:1-3, Mark 1:2-3 and Luke 3:4-6.  The original prophecy is in Isaiah 40:3. 
I wonder if Jesus would have been successful without John’s involvement.  Is there is a lesson for us? We, like Jesus, have had people in our life that have helped us on our way.  In a sense, our successes are not totally our own.  Others have helped us along the way and by recognizing their role in our spiritual development we in turn are called to  support  other individuals on their journey.

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

We are encouraged to stand firm Lk 21:19 and be careful (Lk 21:34). These are valuable lessons for life, not just for coping with the end times but also applicable in the present moment.  I wonder if Jesus was talking about the end of the world or teaching us something about our spiritual lives.  

I wonder if Jesus is telling us to be resilient and be determined.  We are called to be intentional in our actions.  To be intentional requires us to chose to be so.  Much of our lives are on automatic pilot.  We have our routines and habits.   Much of our behavior is a response to and/or a result of other’s behavior.   Many worry that if they do not respond in kind they will be seen as weak.  

Our faith is lived out in how we relate to people and to God.  Last week we read that the Greatest Commandment was to love God and the second to love our neighbor, both laws are relational.  

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

Jesus is asked by Pontius Pilate if he is the king of the Jews.  Pilate is not talking about a heavenly kingdom but an earthly kingdom.  Pilate was not making an act of faith.  He wanted to know if Jesus was a political threat or not.  Jesus responds knowing that Pilate would not likely understand but encourages Pilate and the listeners to learn about God’s kingdom.  Pilate’s perspective is very simple and does not see the point Jesus is trying to make.  Its worth noting that Jesus is not intimidated by Pilate.  Likely he knows how this will unfold. He is confident and remains focused. 

The term kingdom in a modern context might not have the same meaning that it did 2,000 years ago.  We are less likely to see kings as leaders or holding a position of significant power.  

I invite listeners to pause and reflect on who is God to you.  Another way is to reflect on what role does God have in your life?

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

This Gospel was written over 2,000 years ago and the world is still here so I am less convinced the readings were written to prepare us for the end times.  However, many of the early Christians understood these readings as a sign pointing to  the end of the world.  One of the reasons why the Gospels were written so late, was because many people believed Jesus literally, and that the end of the world would take place in their lifetime.

I suspect these readings could be interpreted differently.  I propose that Jesus is talking more about the trials and tribulations in our lives.  Our faith in Jesus does not exempt us from struggles.  Rather than seeing these as the end, Jesus invites us to see this is a time when God will show his saving power.

Could those struggles be actually helpful to our spiritual growth?  Struggles encourage us to develop resilience and problem-solving skills.  Struggles can lead to maturity and a perspective on life that leads to spiritual and psychological growth.  

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

The lesson in today’s Gospel is clear, do not get seduced by appearances! There is also a sub-theme of humility. Jesus is critical of the Scribes for their hypocritical behaviour. As Luke 12:48,  states, "To whom much is given, much will be required." Jesus emphasized the idea of responsibility that comes with blessings and resources. The verse suggests that those who have been entrusted with more—whether it be talents, wealth, or knowledge—are held to a higher standard of accountability. 
Jesus continues his teaching on looking beyond appearances when he is watching wealthy people putting in large sums of money into the temple treasury. On the level of appearances, the large  donations would suggest that the rich deserve more while in reality it is the poor widow who gave all she had. 

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

In today’s Gospel Jesus is asked by a scribe, “Which commandment is the first of all?”  Jesus answers his question directly. Jesus talked about loving God exclusively, with all your heart, mind and all your strength. Jesus did not leave anything out. Jesus does not stop there but teaches that we are to love our neighbor as our selves. Jesus would later go on to define his understanding of who is a neighbor in the parable of the Good Samaritan.  It is not impossible to love people we admire or who love us or are similar to us.  It is hard if not impossible to love those who have hurt us or have broken our trust. We must make a conscious choice to live by our own values rather than reacting to the behavior of others. 

The Gospel really makes it clear that Jesus sees that loving God and loving others are intertwined. We cannot say that we love God and at the same time hate part of his creation. I would like to suggest six things that might help you become more loving. 

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

Bartimaeus was blind and so had to resort to begging to feed himself.  As a beggar he had to compete with other beggars in order to survive.  His life was undoubtedly harsh.  We do not know if he had any support from his family.  

Probably, he learned to be pushy to get what he needed.  We can see his assertiveness in the Gospel reading.  He is not going to be stopped by a bunch of people who didn’t like him, yelling and creating a scene.  

Today’s healing addresses physical blindness.  Metaphorically today’s healing also speaks to us about spiritual blindness.  We can see it in the Pharisees.  They were spiritually blind; unable to recognize the Messiah  even as He stood before them in their midst.  Often truth is too anxiety evoking so the person unconsciously chooses not to deal with it.  Have you ever had the experience of getting an insight into a situation and realizing the answer was in front of you all the time?  

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

Jesus points out that following him is not going to be easy and there are no special concessions.  Jesus is teaching his disciples and ultimately his followers about what following him is all about. This was an issue for the early Christians who were experiencing the persecutions who wondered why God allowed these terrible things to happen to His people.  The Scriptural passage from Mark 4:35-41, Matthew 8:23-27, and Luke 8:22-25    which describes the disciple in a boat during the storm.  The disciples in desperation, wake Jesus up and say to him “Do you not care”.  According to scholars the early persecuted Christians struggled to understand why God appeared to have abandoned them during their time of need.

God does not always calm the storms in our lives.  I wish I knew why.  I do know that our faith can be a source of resilience and personal growth in the face of tragedy.  There has been significant research on spirituality and religious belief that I would like to discuss with you. 

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

Today’s Gospel from Mark describe a man asking what must I do to inherit eternal life?  I want to draw your attention to the question.  I am struck by the fact that the man is focused solely on his own needs.  While there is nothing wrong with that the question it does say much about his level of faith development.  It is very self-focused.  Jesus asks the expected questions, around how he has lived his faith in the past.  Jesus realizes that his possessions have impacted the man’s ability to spiritually grow.  

It is clear that Jesus encourages his followers to prioritize spiritual wealth over material possessions.  The issue of impact of how compatible is spirituality and being wealthy has been around since the beginning of Christianity.  As a priest I have often heard the expression that Christians need to solidarity with the poor.  I never felt comfortable with that for several reasons. 

When I was attending a conference, the presenter  suggested that rather than attempting solidarity we should be using our wealth to help lift the poor out of poverty.  This makes so much more sense to me.  

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

Many Christian denominations have interpreted this Scripture passage differently, but I want to draw your attention to the comment Jesus made, and I quote: “What  God has joined together, no human being must separate.”   This is a very important line.  We assume that when someone has a wedding in a Church witnessed before a priest or minister that they are married.  

I’ve made it clear to couples that they could be married in a Basilica, their officiant could be a bishop but if their consent is not there they are not married before God.  Often people have to grow into their ability to give their consent to their marriage.  

Today’s Gospel speaks about family issues and values.  Families play an important part in our spiritual and faith development.  Jesus teaches us that marriage is more than just a contract between a couple but a blessed union, something much bigger than ourselves.   

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

Being passionate about one’s faith is not being fanatical.  Being passionate about one’s faith is being inspired, actively seeking deeper understanding and being committed to living the values in our faith life.  The problem is that anyone’s faith can become complacent, left unchallenged our faith may ultimately becomes stale.   In Matthew 5:13 Jesus states, “You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot”.  
Passion in our faith requires trust in God.  I wonder if people worry that if they become more spiritual or faith-based God will ask them to do something they do not want to do.  There may be some truth to that.  If we open our eyes more, we may see more injustices in the world, if we open our ears to listen, we might hear the harmful and disrespectful messages which confront us or we may become more attuned to the cries of the poor.

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

Jesus was very clear in his understanding of leadership.  For example, His teachings on leadership are found in Matthew 20:26, where he states, "But among you it will be different. Whoever wants to be a leader among you must be your servant." This reflects the principle that true leadership is about serving others rather than seeking power or authority. 

It is sad when one  sees good people put in positions of authority, only to have the power go  to their head.  They no longer listen but are seduced by power and come to believe that they alone have the answer. 

There are several reasons why the wrong people get into leadership. For example, the Peter Principle is a management theory formulated by Dr. Laurence J. Peter, which purposes that in many organizations, employees are promoted based on their performance in their present roles until they are promoted to a position where they are no longer competent. 

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

Jesus, like any good lawyer never asked  a question that he did not already know the answer to. After the disciples answer his question Jesus increases the heat by asking them who they think he is.  

Peter responds with the perfect answer and Jesus points out that his answer is a reflection of God’s presence in his life.  Unfortunately for Peter he continues talking and shows that while he gave  the correct answer, spoke the correct words he really didn’t understand Jesus or His mission.

  In these brief passages Jesus provides us with wise teachings about life.  

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

In today’s Gospel we have a description of a healing, specifically the healing of a deaf and mute man.  Jesus orders the man not to tell anyone but Jesus orders falls on deaf ears, if you don’t mind the irony and the miracle is proclaimed anyway. Jesus must have known that the miracle would be proclaimed, and the people could not keep this a secret.  Jesus probably couldn’t help himself.  He is a healer. Not only would this man regain his hearing and ability to speak he could become an active member of his community.  He would have opportunities that had been previously denied him.  He would be taken more seriously by his community because he would have more access to knowledge, and he would be able to share his ideas with greater ease.  Jesus not only healed him he restored him.
Jesus taking the man away from the crowd.  He doesn’t say anything to the man.  It makes sense as the man is deaf.  Mark describes several actions, he put his fingers in the man’s ears, he touches the man’s tongue, he looks up to heaven.  It has been pointed out that Jesus was communicating with the man in the only way possible, through sign language.  Jesus wants him to understand as much as possible in a way that the man could.  It is the same for us when we are blind or deaf to God's Call.

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

Today’s Gospel reading is from a group of teachings where Mark describes Jesus challenging the Scribes and Pharisees about the practice of their faith. The Scribes and Pharisees were not doing anything wrong. They were literally following the law and the traditions of their ancestors. The point that Jesus is making with them is that they are focusing on little details and missing the more important reality. 

I would like to introduce you to Lawrence Kohlberg. Kohlberg's work created a new field within psychology, and his theories became highly influential in the study of moral development. His research also provided the foundation for research on spiritual development.

Another influential researcher is James Fowler who wrote the Stages of Faith: The Psychology of Human Development and the Quest for Meaning was first published 1981. The book was later revised in 1995. Fowler, a theologian, and developmental psychologist, proposes that faith is a universal process of meaning-making that evolves through distinct stages over a person's lifetime. 

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

This Gospel is likely one of the most difficult to understand. Understandably, his first listeners are struggling to comprehend this teaching especially because they were taking Jesus literally. Jesus develops the lesson inviting his listeners  to think on the level of Spirit.  

We have an account of a significant loss of disciples here.  Many of the disciples found the teaching to be too much to understand and so they not only leave but John describes them as going back and returning  to their former way of life. I guess you cannot blame them for leaving.  Jesus was challenging them to think outside the box.  

What does this mean?  They weren’t doing anything wrong; they were giving up an opportunity to grow spiritually with Jesus himself.  Could they come back? 

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

already figured out this is a very pronounced theme in John. This Gospel is likely one of the most difficult to understand. Without doubt, those who first heard Jesus speaking these words must have struggled to comprehend this teaching especially because they were taking Jesus literally. 

We need to remember that Jesus has taught like this before, dramatic and in a style that portrays the passion that Jesus has. The famous passage from Luke 9:60, “let the dead bury the dead” or Mathew 19:9, “if your eye causes you to sin pluck it out” are just two examples of Jesus not speaking literally but with passion, he is trying to make his point. Today’s Gospel graphically makes the point that our God wants to sustain us and support us on a very deep and personal level. Anyone who sees God as a judge, or a God who obsesses with people following the rules needs to read this passage several times.

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

Most loving relationships do  experience  the ebb and flow of relationships.  Relationships go through periods of intensity and periods of distance.   People  sometimes like being close and other times they need their space.  Its clear that God respects our space, but we can clearly see he is the pursuer in this relationship.  Some people may feel God is distant, not involved much in his creation.  I agree that may be how we feel but is it accurate? Just because God does not behave in the way we want or expect does not mean he is not present or caring.  I urge you to spend some time reflecting on what God must do to get your attention.

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

In the Gospel, we are told that the people have found Jesus after having searched for him for awhile.  Jesus challenges them to look at their reasons for following him.  Ideally Jesus probably wished they were following him because they wanted to learn more in order to deepen their faith.   Jesus realizes however, that most people are searching for him because they want to see miracles and/or obtain free food rather than to obtain spiritual wisdom.  This situation does not appear to upset Jesus; and being the teacher that he is, transforms  the situation into  a teachable moment.

Perhaps Jesus is pointing out to the people that if they want a sign they ought to look at themselves and note the times God was present in their actions, challenges and even failures.  

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

John describes the miracle of Jesus feeding a large group of followers. John indicated 5,000 men. We don’t know how many women or children were present.  I suspect there might be some exaggeration here. 

Although Jesus knew what he was going to do, he still asks Philip to give an opinion of what could be done. It is a great teaching tool where the teacher highlights the student’s understanding before the teaching.

John is making an important point that I want to draw your attention to in this reflection. The point has to do with ones perspective of what Jesus can and will do in our lives. Our perspectives can either enhance or inhibit the course of our lives. 

Are we open to allow God to surprise us? When an event or  situation does not turn out the way we wanted or expected are we willing to hold back judgement and explore what God could be directing us to do.  Are we open to change and to broaden our perspective of God and His role in our life?

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

In Today’s Gospel from Mark, we learn that the apostles had returned from some mission activity and are updating Jesus on their experiences.  What is immediately noteworthy is that Jesus’ first response is an invitation to get away and rest. 

It seems to me that Jesus is talking about the value of rest. Jesus is a head of his time. Psychologists and other mental health professionals are increasingly recognizing the need for rest to prevent burnout.  More and more I hear about Compassion fatigue, a component of burnout.  Compassion fatigue is the cost of caring for others or for being exposed to their emotional pain.

 It is important to recognize the signs of burnout and Compassion Fatigue. 

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

Jesus is sending his disciples to gain some missionary experiences.  The first thing is that Jesus sends the disciples out two by two.  I thought Jesus could have doubled his impact by sending them out alone.  It becomes clear that Jesus is not concerned with numbers.   He is making several teaching points about spirituality and faith that are helpful in deepening our faith.  Jesus is making it clear that they are not to have anything to slow them down or get in the way.  

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

The Gospel Mark 6:1-6 is unusual, it seems that Jesus is returning to his hometown, likely to visit his family and friends.   We don’t know if this visit occurred early in his mission work or towards the end.  However, his family and friends have heard about his ministry, and they are not impressed.  Jesus is understandably disappointed in their behavior and attitude. 

Jesus did not always get support from his family.  In Mk 3:21 we have the family of Jesus coming to get him because they believed he was “out of his mind”.  In Matthew 12:46-50 we have Jesus’s family wanting to speak to him, but Jesus uses that experience to teach people about family.  One cannot be too hard on his family.  They were trying to protect him...from himself. 

Families are important.  It is in growing up within a family that we learn to love.  How do you teach someone how to love?  Only by loving them.  How do you teach someone to trust?  Only by being trustworthy.  I suspect some people have difficulty with their faith because they  have only experienced conditional love or have had their ability to trust bruised.  

Families are not always easy.  Even the members of the family of Jesus had to grow in their ability to be a healthy family. 

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

Today’s Gospel is a miracle story within a resurrection story.  The first is the story of a woman who is healed after many years of suffering from   hemorrhages.  This miracle story is unique as the miracle happens without her saying anything to Jesus.  She believes that she simply needs to touch the hem of his garment for the healing.  She is correct, she is indeed healed.  

Jesus was fully a teacher and would not pass by a teachable moment.   By calling this woman out he is making a point that her faith played an important part in her healing.  She made herself available for Jesus to act,   and in so doing,  provides us with a model of what true faith can accomplish. 

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

Today’s Gospel describes an experience Jesus had with his disciples on the Sea of Galilee.  This story was well known during the early days of the Church, especially during the persecutions.    The early Church community was often in crisis as it dealt with factions from within and persecutions from the Roman Empire.  The people were often afraid and certainly asked themselves the question “Where is God?” Sound familiar?   Why is Jesus silent in the midst of all their suffering? There were many martyrs who gave up their lives for their faith.  Many early Christians wondered if they were next.  This Gospel story likely served as a sign of hope for the people who also felt that they were on a boat during a storm: a boat that was ready to sink.  

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

We have two very short parables where Jesus is describing the Kingdom of God.   The first question that comes to mind is what does Jesus mean by “kingdom of God”?  The term is used 126 times in the Gospels alone.  

I am also reminded of the statement where Jesus said: “If you had the faith the size of a mustard seed you could say to this mountain move from here to there and it will move.” Matthew 17:20. These passages could be a source of strength to those who wish they had more faith or feel their contribution is so minor.  

Faith like any part of human life is about growth and development.  Our faith will change and hopefully deepen as we grow.  As we reach adulthood, we ask more questions, and we may be less willing to accept something at face value. 

Growth doesn’t happen in a vacuum.  Growth requires nourishment and rarely happens alone.  It cannot be forced or pressured, it follows a set order or specific stages.  Problems often occur when growth is distorted by an unhealthy environment.  So, what has to happen for our faith to grow?

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

This Gospel is perhaps one of the most unusual of all the Gospels.  Jesus’ family, including his mother Mary are coming to take him home believing that he is either possessed or has lost his mind.  Jesus is accused of being possessed by members of his own family.  Due to the lack of understanding of mental illness in those days, strange behavior was often seen as possession.  Jesus turns the events into  a teachable moment.  Jesus seizes this opportunity to let the people know that they are more to God than just people, that they  are family.  

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

Jesus and the disciples are celebrating the Passover Meal, a major feast day in the Jewish faith and history.  The Passover commemorates the “passing over” of the angel of death who would strike down the first born of the Egyptians.  This was the tenth and final plague that Moses would bestow on the Egyptians to force the Pharaoh to release the Israelites from their slavery.  

Every year the Jews celebrated Passover as they were celebrating their freedom from slavery and the protection from God.  The last meal that Jesus spent with his disciples is believed to have been a Passover celebration.     From this Passover meal the stage would be set for the development of the Eucharist.  the Eucharist grew out a meal celebrating freedom from oppression. 

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

I urge you to spend some time reflecting on who God is for you?  The answer may give you insight about how you see God, your expectations of God and how you allow God to impact your life.  One of the questions I ask people is; “What does God have to do to get your attention?’  This is another way of looking at what God means to you and how you expect God to reach out to you.  Don’t make the same mistake, as that of the Pharisees who missed recognizing the Messiah, for them Jesus simply did not fit into their expectations.

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

Today’s Gospel is an account of the descent of the Holy Spirit on the disciples.  This account is very different from the other accounts in the Gospels.  Jesus makes another appearance.  He welcomes his disciples with the call to Peace. I want to point out that Jesus said this to the disciples who were afraid, the doors were locked, they had isolated themselves out of fear. 

Fear can lead us to abandon our values, goals and convictions; leading us to behaviours that normally would not happen. In a way causing us to feel shut down.  I want to point out that after receiving the Holy Spirit the disciples were fearless, actively preaching the good news when before they lived in secret.

People who are courageous or have done courageous acts can still be afraid.  They have learned how to handle their fear to prevent them from being shut down.  So, going back to the disciples, they were likely still afraid for their lives, but the Spirit gave them courage to move forward. 

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

Jesus makes some serious claims of those who follow Him, who will be able to drive out demons, speak new languages, pick up serpents, and even if they drink poison they will survive.  Jesus promises miraculous cures simply by laying hands on the afflicted.  I recognize that miracles do happen.  I am not questioning that, however in our own times we don’t always see the healings nor the drinking of poison.  I am wondering if there is something more here for us to consider.

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

John is writing on his favourite theme of love.  We are given a command to love one another.  I struggle with this because one cannot be commanded to love.   I wonder if the personality of Jesus, described in the Gospels, could shed light on how to respond to the call to love.  We might start by focusing on and developing these personality traits in our own lives. 

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

In this Gospel Jesus compares himself to the true vine.  There are many points I want to draw your attention to.  This metaphor of the vine would be well understood by the people.  There were vineyards where people would grow grapes for wine. 

People would understand that vines were frequently pruned to produce much more fruit.  Anyone who grows plants or interested in growing gardens is familiar with the concept of pruning to ultimately make the plant more beautiful or more productive. 

The comparisons are obvious, that many times we are pruned when our goals don’t happen.  Just to be clear not all our challenges and struggles are examples of being pruned but some are.  We are being pruned not as punishment but to assist us reach our full potential.  

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

Today’s podcast is from John 10: 11-18.  This Gospel will be read in churches April 21, 2024.  Jesus compares himself to a shepherd, not just any shepherd but a good shepherd.  Fortunately, Jesus goes on to clarify what he means.  Probably most of us have little or no experience with shepherds and likely have never met one.  

Jesus frequently used common experiences that people would recognize... to illustrate key spiritual concepts, in the parables we read about the lost coin, fish, vines and planting crops for example.   People at this time would presumably have been familiar with shepherds. 

A sheep that did not know their own shepherd was a problem: as it was at risk of being lost or falling prey to wolves and other predators.   Rather than punish the lamb the shepherds had a way to teach the lost lamb about the Shepherd.

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

There are many stories in which Jesus is revealed to people in various communities.  I am proposing that the aspect community in our faith may be more important than we realize.  I want to draw your attention to Matthew 18:20 where Jesus promises, “When two or more are gathered in my name I am there”.  I am beginning to realize that being in a community can help mature our faith.  

I know that living community is not always easy.  It was no different in the early church; as we read in the Acts of the Apostles and the letters from Paul to the early Christian communities, many instances where he is admonishing them for their divisions and judgmental attitudes.  

I am left wondering if by dealing with these differences ... our faith matures.  

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

In this Gospel of John, we have another appearance of Jesus.  Although the doors are locked Jesus has no trouble appearing to his disciples.  The first thing Jesus says is “Peace be with you”, and He will soon say it again.  Jesus makes it clear that peace is an important part of his Gospel.  He says it twice here and in several other scriptural passages.  Unfortunately, we Christians have not done a very good job of keeping the peace.  Wars and armed conflicts have almost continuously occurred throughout history.  This command has not been taken seriously.

Peace is not an absence of conflict. 

Because we are not perfect beings there will be times when we will need to be skilled in forgiving.  Jesus spoke about forgiveness many times.  I draw your attention to Matthew 18:21-35 when Jesus is asked how often should we forgive?  The answer is a powerful 7 times 70 times.   Jesus is telling us to be a forgiving people.  As important as forgiveness is for peace to flourish, we have not done a very good job with forgiving.  

The second issue I want to draw your attention to is the story often referred to as Doubting Thomas.  I have to admit I think this perception of him as Doubting Thomas is unfair.  

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

Today’s podcast is from the Gospel of John 20: 1-9.  This gospel focuses on one of the earliest accounts of the resurrection of Jesus. The story starts with Mary of Magdala going to the tomb and finding it empty.  

I wonder what it was like for the followers of Jesus during and after the crucifixion.  They were devastated!  Likely, some of the disciples could be diagnosed with Acute Stress Disorder. 

We don’t have any indication of what symptoms they were experiencing but likely they were in shock at what they had witnessed.  Their dreams, hopes and expectations gone.  Likely some were questioning their faith; others may have felt tricked or just did not know what to make of the last two days. Their way of life was ripped away. 

Peter goes into the tomb and noticing the manner that the burial clothes are laid immediately senses this is not a grave robbery.  Peter and John started to believe even though as Scripture has it they did not yet understand. 

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

Jesus is welcomed by the people of Jerusalem in a fashion reserved for royalty. 
I have no way knowing for sure how Jesus felt.  On one hand he was likely pleased that the people were happy to welcome him.  He probably recognized many of the people and genuinely felt welcomed.  On the other hand, Jesus, who knew the thoughts of the Pharisees,  knew the depth of their faith and that  most likely he knew they still did not fully understand his Messiahship.   I am reminded of a parable found in Matthew 13:20 where Jesus talks about the Sower who sowed some of his seeds on rocky soil.  The seed sown on rocky ground is the one who hears the word and receives it at once with joy.  But he has no root and last only for a time Jesus knew the people had their heart in the right place but their faith hasn’t had a chance to mature and develop roots.  

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

One of the unusual themes found in this Gospel is the paradox of death leading to life.  What is unique here, is Jesus’ understanding about life and death, where death comes before life. One would think that you would have to live before you can die, however, Jesus turns that all around. Jesus teaches that one has to die first before one can live life fully.  It is only by experiencing death that one can live life to the fullest. 

Not the easiest concept to grasp.

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

Jesus is sent to lead people to eternal life.  God is not condemning his people, but his message is offering them eternal life.  Interesting, Jesus makes it clear we are not meriting eternal life, we simply have to believe.  People have a hard time with this, still under the impression that we have to merit this invitation and the invitation could be taken away at anytime for any infraction of the rules.   I wonder if for so many people, love is experienced as conditional… based on merit. 

Lawrence Kohlberg describes different stages of moral development.  His theories and perspectives gives us perspectives on how a faith based rules and reward can be very limiting and does not allow our faith to live.

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

Today’s gospel event is especially significant.  Scripture scholars have proposed that this event with Jesus overturning the money tables probably lead to his undoing and ultimately being betrayed and handed over to Pilate.  When Jesus drove out the money changers the Pharisees started losing money and they became more serious in their plans to get rid of him.  

Jesus'anger was motivated by his zeal and commitment to God.  His handling of the money changers gives us direction on how to express anger.  Learning how to live with anger can be a useful tool in developing our spirituality.  

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

This Gospel is very different from all the Gospel stories.  It describes a mystical vision, an experience shared with Jesus, Moses and Elijah and Peter, James and John.  Peter’s offer to build three tents clearly indicates that he didn’t understand what was happening.  His experience is similar to our experience of the Spirit.  We often misunderstand and miss recognizing the Spirit in our lives. Our God is very quiet, we are not forced to listen.  This is one of the reasons I always encourage people I am directing to take time to pause and reflect.   Often in the busyness and chatter of our day we miss the gentle voice of God.  We have to choose to make ourselves available 

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

Today’s Gospel from Mark just simply says Jesus experienced temptations.  We have to look at the Gospels of Matthew and Luke to learn just what those temptations were.  I considered focusing this podcast on those specific temptations.   Upon further reflections I realized it might be a good idea to look at temptations in general first.  The first thing I want to draw your attention to is it is not sinful to experience temptations.  Even Jesus experienced temptations!  How then are we to deal with temptations in our lives?  Mark doesn’t give us much of a clue on how Jesus specifically dealt with those temptations.  Fortunately, the behavioral sciences and other Scripture passages gives direction on how to respond to temptations.

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

In the Gospel Mark describes an encounter between a man with leprosy and Jesus.  There are many things going on here.  We hear a lot about lepers in the time of Jesus and Jesus cured many of them.  Leprosy is a brutal disease.  Not only did the disease attack the body but the leper was excluded from society.   This reminds me of the early days of the AIDS crisis and more recently COVID where people were isolated from love ones.
I want to draw your attention to the leper’s request.  He starts out with “if you want to”.  I could not find any other examples of a request like this in the Gospel.  The leper whose was not given a name has more of an understanding of Jesus ministry of healing than most people including the disciples.  

I want to draw your attention to the fact that Jesus responds to the leper’s request.  Jesus makes it clear that he “wants to heal.”  I want to stress this point because I have experienced so many people searching for God and believing that they have to be worthy or God will not hear their prayers.   How do we respond when our prayers are not answered?

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

The disciples find Jesus praying.  Jesus had got up before dawn to find time and a place to pray.  The first thing Jesus says is "let us go to the nearby villages".  It may have been tempting for Jesus to stay.  He was successful, the people responded well and people were being healed.  It looked like Jesus had a very successful day.  It would make perfect sense to stay.   While there were good reasons to stay; Jesus knows that part of his ministry is to preach the Word of God to the whole area not just one community.  This Gospel highlights the need to be focused and not to be distracted from our mission’s central purpose.

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

We don’t hear very much in present society about unclean spirits.  Its not a term we hear very much about. I like many thought Jesus was talking about evil possession.  I propose that in today’s Gospel the unclean spirit may be aspects of ourselves that undermine our beliefs.  Let me give you some examples to help you understand what I am trying to highlight. Examples of unclean spirits could be an overdeveloped focus on sinfulness, arrogance, vengeance and greed are just four examples that make it impossible for the Spirit to live in our hearts.  We need healing in these aspects of our lives so that our faith will grow and deepen.

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

We sometimes hear about the need for repentance.  What exactly does repentance mean for followers of Jesus?  Alongside of the call to repentance in the Gospel is the call to discipleship.  I wonder if there is a connection.  Understanding repentance is an important step in developing our spiritual life.

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

Today's Gospel occurs at the beginning of Jesus' ministry.  We learn that community plays an important part in the development of our faith life.   One of the first things that Jesus did was calling disciples to build community.    Pope Francis described the Church as a field hospital for those who are hurting and in need of support.   In this podcast we will look at how living in community with other followers of Christ help us to be better people and better Christians. 

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

There is a lot going on in this Gospel.  There are a few points I want to bring to your attention and hopefully useful to you for reflection.

Matthew 2:1-12 tells the story of the arrival of the Magi  to honor the birth of the newborn king Jesus.  We don’t know very much about these individuals.     Theologically, they represent the Gentile non-Jewish world. Their presence reminds us that Jesus came for the whole world not just a select group. The Magi leave the safety of their homes and previous life to journey outside of their comfort zone to follow a star.  King Herod, on the other hand, is clearly threatened by the birth of Jesus and reacts.  Herod lashes out.  His brief mention in the Scriptures teaches us about entitled people.  The story of King Herod and his abuse of power introduces the question of how followers of Christ should exercise power.  

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

In Luke 2:22-44, Jesus is presented in the Temple.   The presentation of the first born child in the Temple is a routine custom in the Jewish faith in biblical times.  Everything changes with the appearance of Simeon and Anna.   Simeon prophesizes the mission of Jesus and provides for us directions for individuals who desire to live their Christian faith.

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

Today’s Gospel focuses on Joseph, the foster father of Jesus.  We don’t hear much about Joseph. The Gospel of Matthew 1:18-25 gives us insight to what kind of man Joseph was.  In this Gospel, Joseph learns that Mary, the woman he is betrothed to is pregnant by someone else.

Joseph’s response is powerful and based on his values and beliefs not on his emotions.  He does the right thing.  Joseph responds to the situation he doesn’t react solely to his feelings.  This is an important lesson on what it means to follow Christ.  There will be times when we will be hurt and be tempted to lash out but this Gospel challenges us to remain faithful to our values and principles.  If we are to be a people of peace we must behave in a way and make decisions that bring about peace in our lives and the lives of others.

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

John readily admits he is not the Messiah and points out that there is someone more powerful than he who is coming after him.  John clearly knows and is true to his mission .  It is unknown if he knew the Messiah was Jesus.  Likely he didn’t know the Messiah was Jesus until after he baptized Jesus.  We have John recognizing Jesus as the Messiah in John 1:35-37 when he directs two disciples to follow Jesus.

John describes himself as the voice crying out in the desert.   The desert has special significance.  People went to the desert to get away from the demands of life and to find a quiet place to pray.  Jesus often withdrew to lonely places to pray. (Luke 5:16).  Remember, Jesus fasted 40 days in the desert before he began his public ministry. It was after spending time in the desert that Jesus experiences the three temptations.  The desert is a challenging place.  

The Christian Church has a rich history of people leaving everything and retreating into the desert as hermits.  The desert could be unforgiving.  Forgetting your water jug could be fatal.   The desert was also a place of freedom, freedom from distractions.  Out of this environment comes John.  Calling for people to make straight their way to the Lord.  No detours, obstacles or deviations from the way to the Lord.

What are the detours, obstacles or deviations in our lives?

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

Today’s Gospel introduces John the Baptist.  We know a lot about him but there is still a lot more we’d like to know.  His mission was to prepare the people to receive Jesus.  His birth was prophesized by the prophet Isaiah 40:1-5,9 and Malachi 3:1-5.  Jesus quotes Malachi in Matthew 11:10 which suggests Jesus recognized John the Baptist as the one prophesized in Isaiah to be the forerunner of the Messiah. Matthew 11:11 recounts Jesus’ words: “Truly I tell you, among those born of women has not risen anyone greater than John the Baptist.”  John still has much to offer the 21st century Christian.

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

This Gospel from Mark is brief and to the point.  Keep watch and be prepared.  At first glance this Gospel sounds God is looking for a chance to catch us unaware.  I seriously doubt that is true but rather this Gospel, like so many others, we are called to be aware of life challenges.   This Gospel might remind you of an earlier Gospel of the 10 bridesmaids 5 were prepared while 5 were foolish and who were not prepared when the bridegroom finally came.  I wonder what may prevent us from being prepared.  It seems to me that our habits and procrastination may have an impact on our ability to be prepared.  Let me explain

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

The first part of this Gospel Jesus describes the day of judgement were everyone will be put into one of two camps - Sheep or Goats.  My problem is few people are totally good and few people are bad without redeeming qualities.  The second part of the Gospel Jesus points out that being good means being compassionate.   The call to be compassionate is very personal doing good for others is not just being charitable or living social justice it is reaching out to our God.  It's being close and personal!  This Gospel is very revolutionary.

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

In Matthew’s Gospel Jesus tells the story of a man going on a journey and entrusting his property to the care of his servants.  He lends 5 talents to one servant, another two talents and finally one talent to a third servant. The obvious interpretation to this parable is to make use of the talents that God gives us.  They are meant to bring about positive results not buried or denied. There are a few points I want to highlight that can offer us more insight.

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

Jesus tells the story of 10 bridesmaids.  5 were ready to welcome the groom, with oil in their lamps while the other 5 were not ready.  When the bridegroom was finally coming the five foolish bridesmaids asked the wise ones for help.  They were told go buy some oil for themselves.  

When they came back they were not admitted to the wedding feast.  The Gospel ends with the warning to stay awake be prepared as you do not know the day or the hour.  

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

Today we are focusing on Matthew 23:1-12.  

This Gospel focusses on the Scribes and Pharisees.  There are three points I want to bring to your attention.  This Gospel gives us insight about who Jesus is.   It is clear that Jesus has a preference for those are defenseless and the poor.  He criticizes the Pharisees because they did not help those who are heavy burden.   It is clear that Jesus favors leadership that is anchored in service to the people. 

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

The Gospel, Matthew 22:1-14 is the parable of a king inviting people to his son’s wedding.  The story serves as a metaphor for what Heaven is like.  The message is quite radical.  We have a king whose invited guests refuse to come.  It is abundantly clear the king’s invitation is not a priority in their lives.  Everything else is more important.  I The King’s response, however, is surprising; he instructs his servants to go out and invite anyone they can find.  This parable is presented to us as a metaphor about Heaven but actually, the story says more about who God is.  This King – God shamelessly pursues the guests.  

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

This Gospel is aspirational.  We are called to love God.  As simple as this Gospel is there is a very powerful challenge to love God with our whole heart and soul.  We may feel very broken in our desire to live this Gospel.  It appears absolute and insurmountable.  Wait, there is more!  You are to love our Neighbour as yourself.  

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

In this Gospel Jesus is asked by the Pharisees whether the people should pay taxes to their Roman occupiers.  It is a trick question designed to entrap Jesus.   Jesus however uses the opportunity to teach us what it means to be a follower of Jesus. 

Complete our 1 Minute Survey

Complete our 1 Minute Survey