John the Baptist is among the most theologically significant figures in the Gospels. In Luke’s gospel, his birth narrative parallels that of Jesus. His conception is announced by an angel, and his birth was a surprise gift to his aged parents. The expectant mothers of Jesus and John meet and rejoice that they have been blessed by God. The children are cousins, and both will begin their mission in the desert.
The need to forgive ourselves Read More »
Over the centuries there have been terrible disasters that to the people of the time would have seemed like signs of the apocalypse. There was the Black Death in the 14th century that killed 50 million people in Europe or some 60 percent of the population; the First World War followed by the influenza epidemic; and the destruction wrought by the Second World War.
Prevailing hope, not despair Read More »
The first reading today is from the Book of Daniel (2nd century BC). It foretells the coming of a mysterious “one like a son of man.” This was a title that Jesus used of himself. The Church reads this text as prophesying the universal Kingship of Christ.
The kingdom is the truth Read More »
A man thrown into a den of hungry lions; three youths cast into a massive furnace; dreams and visions; kings gone mad; angelic beings appearing and disappearing: the Book of Daniel is wild stuff. It certainly captivated Jesus, who identified himself as the visionary’s ‘Son of Man’ riding on the clouds as Lord and Judge of the world.
Always a faithful God Read More »
Carmel has been a widow for five years. Christmas and New Year are anxious and depressing times for her, especially now that she’s on her own. In need of help and a listening ear, Carmel reached out to Sr Joan, who’s been a great support to Carmel since her husband’s death.
The gift of the heart Read More »
As part of a structured community or society, we need regulations, ‘norms’ or laws to provide the conditions for a productive, well-ordered and peaceful community. To achieve its mission and to continue to support people in their lives and with their faith, the Church also needs structures.
God’s law is about love Read More »
The end of the Church’s liturgical year is fast approaching and will culminate in a celebration of Christ as King. Today’s readings focus on the meaning of discipleship, on what it means to live true to Jesus our King and his teaching and example.
Praying for ‘faithful’ eyes Read More »
The end of the Church’s liturgical year is fast approaching and will culminate in a celebration of Christ as King. Today’s readings focus on the meaning of discipleship, on what it means to live true to Jesus our King and his teaching and example.
To be in the service of others Read More »
The kingdom of God is the heart and essence of Jesus’ teaching. References to the kingdom appear 114 times in the four gospels. According to our earliest gospel, Mark (1:15: cf. 3:24; 4:11, 26, 30), Jesus initiated his message with the proclamation, “The present era of history is at an end, the reign of God has come near; convert your mind and believe in the good news.”
The road that leads us to God Read More »
Have you ever experienced something that becomes more absorbing the more you spend time with it? Maybe it’s a piece of music, a novel, a spot in the park. You could watch that movie a million times. The bible is similar. It was written to be pondered; it is ‘meditation literature’.
The ‘playground’ of life Read More »