In Psalm 2 we read about the anointed One of God. This is understood in the New Testament, particularly in the Book of Acts, to be referring to Jesus. In fact, in Acts 4:25-27 we see the Apostles directly quote from this Psalm as an explanation of the things they do in Jesus' name. At … Continue reading On Kings and Hope
Prosperity
Rather, the law of the LORD* is his joy; and on his law he meditates day and night.b He is like a treec planted near streams of water, that yields its fruit in season; Its leaves never wither; whatever he does prospers. - Psalm 1 I've decided to work my way through the Book of … Continue reading Prosperity
Our Lady of Sorrows
The Gospel reading for today is from John, Chapter 19, verses 25-27. It is short, but powerful. Standing by the cross of Jesus were his mother and his mother's sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene. When Jesus saw his mother and the disciple there whom he loved he said to his mother, … Continue reading Our Lady of Sorrows
Surrender
Yesterday was my birthday. That's right, 9/11 is my birthday. Hooray. I hope you can identify sarcasm when you read it. I actually thought, as the first anniversary of that terrible day approached, that maybe I would not celebrate my birthday on the 11th of September in successive years. But good friends and loving family … Continue reading Surrender
Matthew 5:38-41
I have been a fan of Jesus' teaching on "turning the other cheek" for a long time now. It's not easy to do, but I base my enthusiasm for this passage on my own experience. I can't say definitively that I was thinking of Jesus' words when I decided to figuratively turn my face so … Continue reading Matthew 5:38-41
2 Timothy 4:1-8
At the end of St. Paul's life, he feels all alone. Many friends have left him, others have betrayed him. He is imprisoned for publicly expressing his beliefs and urging others to believe. He will end his life dying for the faith, a martyr. Many of us know the feeling of being betrayed by someone … Continue reading 2 Timothy 4:1-8
Love takes time
"Where sin increased, grace overflowed all the more..." - Romans 5:20 This is something Paul asserts based on our salvation history. And one of the most encouraging, life affirming truths I've ever pondered. Sin will never win. Evil may win skirmishes, but will not win the war or even the major battles. Pardon the military … Continue reading Love takes time
Fix our eyes on Jesus
We Christians are told time and again to keep our eyes on Jesus. Paul, in his letter to the Hebrews is the first to instruct us to do so. Fix our eyes on Jesus, the leader and perfecter of faith. And then the apostle goes on to describe the crucified Christ. He says that Jesus … Continue reading Fix our eyes on Jesus
Our hope is in You
What follows is a prayer I composed about 14 years ago. I still pray it every week. Or more. I used to pray it every single day. For years. I based the Rosary For Warriors upon this prayer. Whether I pray the rosary or not, I pray these intentions. There is a phrase in the … Continue reading Our hope is in You
A prayer for us all
“Renew my joy in your salvation. Sustain in me a willing spirit. I will teach the wicked your ways, that they may return to you. Save me from death, O God, my saving God, that my tongue may proclaim your healing power. O Lord, open my lips that my mouth may proclaim your praises.” (Psalm … Continue reading A prayer for us all
