We might understand saying sorry, or an apology, forgiveness, even reconciliation and healing, but often we’re uncertain what part repentance plays in our lives. Yet it’s the very first thing that Jesus calls us to in the gospels and in Lent it’s front and centre.
Where to find repentance Read More »
Mountains play an important role in the bible; often presented as sites of transcendent spiritual experiences and encounters with God. Abraham shows his willingness to sacrifice Isaac and then encounters God on a mountain (Gen 22:1-14).
A spiritual climb to the top Read More »
Today’s gospel tells us of the temptations which Jesus experienced when, in preparation for his public ministry, he’d gone out to the desert wilderness for a time of prayer and fasting. The gospel leaves us in no doubt Jesus knew the reality of temptation. He knew too that we, his followers, would face temptation of various kinds.
Spring-cleaning our minds of temptation Read More »
Jesus confronts a very human reality,
namely, the tendency to notice the failings of others while being blind to our own: “Why do you observe the splinter in your brother’s eye and never notice the plank in your own?”
Blind to our own prejudice Read More »
In the Book of Samuel we find two mortal enemies, David and Saul, in conflict. Saul is the anointed King of Judah and David has been anointed to succeed him. What happens next is an all too familiar human story.
Do good to those who hate you Read More »
A small boy once asked me what has been the most pertinent question I’ve ever been asked in my more than 50 years as a priest. The children were being prepared for Easter and reflecting on the events of Holy Week when the boy suddenly launched into a second question:
According to the book, Life of Francis Assisi, Francis once invited a young monk to join him on a trip to town to preach. Honoured to receive the invitation, the monk readily accepted. All day long he and Francis walked through the streets, byways, and alleys. They rubbed shoulders with hundreds of people.
Preaching as we walk Read More »
In this astonishing incident in Luke’s gospel, those listening to Jesus suddenly turn from praising him to rage against him. So intense was their anger that they attempt to kill him. And these are people from Jesus’ home town of Nazareth, who knew his family and had grown up with him. How do we explain this?
Be Open to God’s Message Read More »
Today’s gospel follows John the Baptist’s preparation of the people of Israel for the coming of the Messiah. John’s mission is to communicate as clearly as possible that God’s people are in feeble spiritual health. John knows that God’s chosen one is coming to offer a new way of knowing and relating to God.
Repentance clears the way for hope Read More »
Of all Jesus’ miracles, we might think his turning water into wine is the least significant. However, for John, this miracle at the wedding feast of Cana takes pride of place as the first of the ‘signs’ given by Jesus.
Drinking the new wine Read More »