In the grand scheme of things have you ever taken an inventory of the way others perceive you? For a believer this is not necessarily a far-fetched idea. You might remember that Jesus did this very thing when he asked…
The Meaning of Mercy
The Second Vatican Council taught us that the Eucharist is the “Source and Summit” of the Christian life. Yet we must keep in mind that the same council makes clear that the Eucharist is not the sum total of the…
Bumper Sticker Evangelist
Have you ever driven behind a bumper sticker evangelist? They have so many bumper stickers that it is hard to tell what color the car is anymore. Each one proclaims the Word of God in a unique way: some are…
The Transfiguration and the Cross
Readings for February 24, 2013: Second Sunday in Lent Appearances can be deceiving. After all, Jesus was just another Galilean. His hands were the rough hands of a workman. People in Nazareth knew his mother. Some even remembered the man…
Parental Guidance Required
Life automatically comes with a PG (Parental Guidance) warning when we live as active Christians. Our children are surrounded by media that is saturated by sex, violence, drugs, and every abomination imaginable. Our children are constantly bombarded by ideas that…
10 Tips for Being a More Joyful Mother
Ever run into a mother who was filled with joy? Not just when a new baby is welcomed home, but amidst the day to day life of being a mom. I have to admit, I spend more time lamenting my…
A Teachable Moment
Where were you when you first heard the news of Pope Benedict’s resignation? I was making breakfast, juggling lunches, and trying to get my morning rolling when I received a text from a family member. She was alerting me and…
Sinners in the Church
People often point out how sinful the Church is. Whether it was the sexual abuse scandal in all of the headlines or the hypocrites trying to kill each other getting out of the parking lot after mass, our Church seems…
No Turning Back on Lent
Ah, the first week of Lent—just about the time when I usually start to question the choice and discernment of my individual Lenten practices of prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. Is this a sacrifice I’m really committed to? How am I…
I’m Not Enough
If you have faith the size of a mustard seed you will say to this mountain ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you. (Matthew 17:20) Here’s another one: Therefore my beloved brothers,…