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Today’s Word: Epiphany of the Lord – January 4, 2026

Isaiah 60:1-6

Psalms 72:1-2, 7-8, 10-11, 12-13

Ephesians 3:2-3, 5-6

Matthew 2:1-12

Today we celebrate the Solemnity of the Epiphany of the Lord. The Sunday readings today center on the theme of “manifestation.” Today we celebrate the revealing of Christ to the entire world. The word epiphany means “to manifest.” This day recognizes the three times Jesus made himself known to the world. The first time was of course when the Magi visited Jesus upon his birth. The second time was through Jesus’ baptism, and the final time was his miracle at Cana.

Before going further, I would like to take a moment and offer a prayer for today:

Lord God, on this day of Epiphany, we rejoice in the revelation of your glory to the world. As the Magi once followed the star to find the newborn King, guide us on our journey of faith. May we, like the Wise Men, bring our gifts of adoration, humility, and love to the feet of the Savior. Amen.

Worship requires sacrifice. We can sacrifice in many ways – through prayer, giving something up, doing something more of, offering gifts, helping others and so on. It is taking something that we may not necessarily do every day or something that we may not do at all. The point is that we give of ourselves in some way. We “sacrifice” a part of ourselves, or a part of our day or week, to do something of value. In the same way the Magi brought gifts for the baby Jesus. The Magi offered gold, as a sign of Christ as King; frankincense, as the sign of Christ the priest; and myrrh, the sign of Christ as prophet.

The First Reading today is a prophetic call for Jerusalem to “rise up in splendor” because its light has come (Jesus). It describes nations and kings gathering from afar, bringing gold and frankincense to proclaim the praises of the Lord. In the Second Reading for St. Paul’s letter to the Ephesians, Paul explains the mystery revealed to him; that through the Gospel, the Gentiles now belong to the same body, partaking in the same promise in Christ Jesus. The Gospel offers the account of the Magi following a star to Bethlehem. Upon finding the child with Mary, they prostrate themselves in worship and offer gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh.

I believe we can learn some things from today’s readings. It seems they reflect the idea of seeking truth and light. In the First Reading from the Prophet Isaiah, we read that the land will be in darkness, and then the glory of the Lord will rise and “nations shall walk by your light and kings in the brightness of your rising.” (Isaiah 60:3, The Great Adventure Bible – RSV – 2nd Catholic Edition). This foretells the coming of the light – Jesus.

As previously mentioned, St. Paul writes a letter of inclusivity. We have learned that Emmanuel means “God with us,” and that Emmanuel is Jesus, then we know that God is indeed with us. Therefore, Paul’s message to the Ephesians reinforces that God’s grace is very inclusive, breaking down old barriers to invite all of humanity into one body. “God is with us.” He’s just not with this group of people or that group of people. God is with all people, and Gentiles are “fellow heirs, members of the same body, and partakers of the promise in Christ Jesus through the Gospel.” (Ephesians 3:6, The Great Adventure Bible – RSV – 2nd Catholic Edition).

The Gospel of Matthew shows King Herod reacting in dread and fear of a new king. He felt this was a threat to his own power. In contrast, the Magi were very willing to seek the truth. Their journey through uncertainty serves as a model for our own spiritual persistence. Additionally, just as the star guided the Magi, we are called to shine through acts of care, concern, and love, guiding others through the darkness of difficult and troubled times.

So, I will leave you with this scripture,“O God, you are my God, I seek you, my soul thirsts for you; So I will bless you as long as I live; I will lift up my hands and call on your name.” (Psalm 63:1ab, 4 – The Great Adventure Bible – RSV – 2nd Catholic Edition)

Stay strong with your faith and try to persevere through all hardships. And always…ALWAYS…give thanks to God!

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Today’s Word: Feast of the Holy Family – December 28, 2025

Sirach 3:2-6, 12-14

Psalms 128:1-5

Colossians 2:12-21

Matthew 2:13-15, 19-23

Christmas has come and passed. However, this is still the Christmas season within the Church. Today marks the Feast of the Holy Family of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph. This day serves as a profound meditation on how God chose to enter human history through the ordinary, often messy, and vulnerable structure of a family.

The readings today reflect on the holiness in the ordinary. Jesus, Mary, and Joseph were the holy family, not in the sense of being “perfect” but they used trust over control and relied on presence over perfection.

The Gospel reading today is from Matthew and depicts the Holy Family sort of as refugees. Following a dream, Joseph immediately flees to Egypt to protect the infant Jesus from Herod’s violence, illustrating that holiness is found in obedience and protection of the vulnerable. Joseph is portrayed here as a model of quiet, unwavering trust. He does not demand a detailed plan; he simply responds to God’s immediate call to protect his family, even when it means displacement and uncertainty. 

This feast today invites all families – including those that are broken, blended, or struggling – to reflect on the Holy Family in order to see themselves in the Holy Family’s story. God chose to dwell in a family that faced poverty, political violence, and exile, reminding us that He is present in our own struggles today.

This idea of a close, holy family is reflected in the other readings for today. The First Reading from Sirach highlights the sacred duty of children to honor their parents. It specifically calls for patience and kindness toward parents in their old age. St. Paul writes in his letter to the Colossians to put ourselves in compassion, humility, gentleness, and love, which binds everything in perfect harmony within the family.

As we close the final Sunday of 2025, we are invited to ask: Is God at the center of my home? Holiness is not found by escaping our family life, but by entering more deeply into it with the same love and obedience shown by Mary and Joseph.

So, I will leave you with this scripture,“The Lord bless you and keep you! The Lord let his face shine upon you, and be gracious to you! The Lord look upon you kindly and give you peace!” (Numbers 6:24-26, The Great Adventure Bible – RSV – 2nd Catholic Edition)

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Today’s Word: Fourth Sunday of Advent – December 21, 2025

Isaiah 7:10-14

Psalms 24:1-6

Romans 1:1-7

Matthew 1:18-24

We are now on the fourth Sunday of Advent. These are the final days before Christmas. The readings today reflect on the quiet, internal “yes” of those who made the Incarnation possible. As a reminder, this fourth Sunday of Advent also brings peace. In Isaiah, Jesus is called the “‘Prince of Peace.’” (Isaiah 9:6, The Great Adventure Bible, RSV – 2nd Catholic Edition). Jesus came into the world to bring peace. This peace is the knowledge that we, as believers, have in the Lord that he is the Savior and Redeemer.

As we go through today and begin our week leading up to Christmas and reflect on the peace that Jesus gives, we are reminded to look at the “yes” spoken by those few who helped bring forth that peace into the world.

In the First Reading, the prophet Isaiah confronts King Ahaz, who refuses to trust God during a national crisis. In response to this lack of faith, God offers a sign, “Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign, the birth of a child named Emmanuel, meaning “God is with us. ”Behold, a virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanu-el.” (Isaiah 7:14, The Great Adventure Bible, RSV – 2nd Catholic Edition).

This reading reminds us that God often works through the humble and vulnerable to overcome the haughty. Even when we, like Ahaz, try to rely on our own “allies” or schemes, God remains committed to being present with us.

In the Second Reading, St. Paul introduces himself as a servant set apart for the Gospel, which was promised long ago through the prophets. He highlights that Jesus is both a descendant of David “according to the flesh” (Romans 1:3, The Great Adventure Bible, RSV – 2nd Catholic Edition) and the Son of God “in power according to the Spirit,” (Romans 1: 4, The Great Adventure Bible, RSV – 2nd Catholic Edition). 

This passage bridges the gap between ancient prophecy and our present reality. We have received “grace and apostleship to bring about the obedience of faith for the sake of his name among all the nations,” (Romans 1:5, The Great Adventure Bible, RSV – 2nd Catholic Edition), and are “called to belong to Jesus Christ,” (Romans 1:6, The Great Adventure Bible, RSV – 2nd Catholic Edition) not just as a far-off hope, but as a living testament of peace to ourselves and to the world.

As previously mentioned, this new year in the Church marks a new cycle of readings. Previously, the Church was in Cycle C. This year we have Cycle A. Most of the Sunday Gospel readings will be from Matthew. And while other years focus on Mary’s Visitation, the Gospel today focuses on St. Joseph. Faced with a bewildering situation – Mary’s pregnancy – Joseph chooses mercy over public shame. However, when an angel explains God’s plan to Joseph in a dream, he wakes up and immediately does as commanded.

Joseph’s holiness is found in his quiet obedience. He was willing to surrender his reputation and plans to collaborate with a mystery he didn’t fully understand. Like Joseph, we are invited to separate from anything that blocks our union with God.

So, as you light the final candle on your Advent wreath – often called the Angel Candle, representing Peace – consider the following points: God chooses closeness over distance and vulnerability over power, He is with us – Emmanuel. Like Joseph, we are called to trust in the dark, to trust God’s voice even in moments of deep confusion or fear. And remember, real preparation for Christmas isn’t about perfect decorations; it’s about offering our own lives, our selves, for God’s will.

So, I will leave you with this scripture,“The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit. Amen.” (Galatians 6:18 – RSV – 2nd Catholic Edition)

Stay strong with your faith and try to persevere through all hardships. And always…ALWAYS…give thanks to God!

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Today’s Word: Third Sunday of Advent – December 14, 2025

Isaiah 35:1-6, 10

Psalms 146:6-10

James 5:7-10

Matthew 11:2-11

The readings for this third Sunday of Advent, focus on the themes of joy, patience, and also the definitive proof of God’s saving power through Christ’s works. The readings invite reflection on joy and the signs of the coming Kingdom of God in our midst. This Sunday is also known as Gaudete (having joy or being joyous) Sunday. The Lord Jesus is near. It is a time to be joyful.

Dear Jesus, help us focus on you during this busy season. May we stay aware of the joy you bring into our lives. We want to find you in the everyday moments and come with hearts of gratitude to your manger on Christmas. Amen.

The Third Sunday of Advent is traditionally a moment to pause and rejoice, as it says in Phillippians, “Rejoice in the Lord always;” (Philippians 4:4, The Great Adventure Bible – Revised Standard Version – 2nd Catholic Edition). This third Sunday is marked by the lighting of the rose-colored candle on the Advent wreath. This burst of joy is rooted in the certainty that the Lord’s coming is near.

The prophet Isaiah, in the First Reading, paints a vibrant picture of restoration: “Then the eyes of the blind shall be opened, and the ears of the deaf unstopped; then shall the lame man leap like a deer;” (Isaiah 35:5-6, The Great Adventure Bible – Revised Standard Version – 2nd Catholic Edition). This is God’s coming, a time of everlasting joy.  Psalm 146 echoes this, praising a God who secures justice, and does good for the people. The Lord is “gracious and merciful, slow to anger and abounding in mercy. … All your works shall give thanks to you, O Lord, and all your saints shall bless you!” (Psalms 146:8, 10, The Great Adventure Bible – Revised Standard Version – 2nd Catholic Edition). These readings remind us that our faith is not just about abstract beliefs but about a tangible reality of healing and justice that God brings into the world.

The Letter of James encourages patient waiting for the Lord’s coming, comparing it to a farmer’s patient expectation of the harvest. (James 5:7, The Great Adventure Bible – Revised Standard Version – 2nd Catholic Edition). This is an active patience. James tells the people to not complain, or “grumble … against one another, that you may not be judged;” (James 5:8, The Great Adventure Bible – Revised Standard Version – 2nd Catholic Edition) because the “judge is standing at the doors.” (James 5:9, The Great Adventure Bible – Revised Standard Version – 2nd Catholic Edition). This calls for strengthening our hearts and living out faith through actions of justice and kindness while awaiting God’s full plan.

In the Gospel reading from Matthew today, John the Baptist questions Jesus from prison, asking if he is the Messiah. John, who had previously recognized Jesus, may have expected a more revolutionary figure than the one performing quiet acts of mercy. Jesus tries to keep his works a secret to not conflict with Herod Antipas, until Jesus finishes his ministry on earth. Jesus responds to the questions simply by pointing to his works, fulfilling Isaiah’s prophecy through healing and proclaiming good news to the poor. This highlights that faith can involve questioning and that God’s methods may differ from human expectations.

The Gaudete Sunday readings encourage a shift from anxiety to joy, reminding us that signs of God’s kingdom are already evident in acts of compassion and healing. As we anticipate Christ’s full return, we are called to be both joyful and patient, actively living lives of love and justice that reflect God’s power of restoration.

So, I will leave you with this scripture, “Rejoice always, pray constantly, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18, The Great Adventure Bible – RSV – 2nd Catholic Edition)

Stay strong with your faith and try to persevere through all hardships. And always…ALWAYS…give thanks to God!

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Today’s Word: Second Sunday of Advent – December 7, 2025

Isaiah 11:1-10

Psalms 72:1-2, 7-8, 12-13, 17

Romans 15:4-9

Matthew 3:1-12

Today begins the second week of Advent, a time of preparation for the coming of Jesus at Christmas. This week deals with the theme of peace. 

Dear Jesus, you entered our world on Christmas as the Prince of Peace. This Advent, as we strive to become the best versions of ourselves, fill us with a deep and abiding peace. Help us share that peace with everyone we encounter, especially those who need it most. Amen

The readings today also reflect on repentance and the continued preparation for the coming of the Lord Jesus. In the Gospel today, John the Baptist is baptising in the Jordan River. He tells everyone to repent and be baptised and to “make his paths straight,” (Matthew 3:3, The Great Adventure Bible – RSV – 2nd Catholic Edition). The Gospel of Matthew quotes from the Book of Isaiah here to remind people to prepare the way and make sure he has a clear path to come into the world and into our lives.  John challenges people to produce “fruit that befits repentance,” (Matthew 3:8, The Great Adventure Bible – RSV – 2nd Catholic Edition). This emphasizes outward actions and ancestry are insufficient; but genuine internal transformation (metanoia) is required. His call pushes us to actively remove the obstacles – sins and distractions – that prevent us from fully welcoming Christ into our lives.

The readings work together to paint a picture of the promised Messiah and the urgent need for a change of heart to receive Him. In the First Reading, the prophet Isaiah shares a vision of a future kingdom marked by extraordinary peace and justice, where even natural enemies coexist as it is noted in the text. This peace comes not from human effort alone, but from a descendant of Jesse (King David’s father) upon whom the Spirit of the Lord rests. It assures us that God can bring forth new life and hope.

St. Paul writes of a message of hope and unity in his letter to the Romans. He reminds us that the Scriptures were written “for our instruction, that by steadfastness and by the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope.” (Romans 15:4, The Great Adventure Bible – RSV – 2nd Catholic Edition). He calls for unity and mutual acceptance among believers (both Jews and Gentiles) to glorify God with one voice. The encouragement here is that God, who started a good work in us, is faithful and will bring it to completion. 

The reflections for this week urge a shift in focus from the external chaos of the world to an internal preparation of the heart. This week, consider that true peace is found in Christ, not in the absence of worldly chaos. John the Baptist’s message is a call to examine our lives and identify areas where we need to ensure our paths are straight and clear. One can accomplish this by seeking reconciliation, forgiveness, and turning away from poor choices. The readings also call us to be active partners with God in bringing about His kingdom. This means working for justice, helping the poor and needy, and proclaiming peace through our actions and advocacy in the world. 

So, in this second week of Advent, let us continue to prepare the way, and ourselves, so that we can truly experience the coming of Jesus at Christmas and continue to build God’s Kingdom.

So, as I will leave you with this scripture, “Rejoice always, pray constantly, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18, The Great Adventure Bible – RSV – 2nd Catholic Edition)

Stay strong with your faith and try to persevere through all hardships. And always…ALWAYS…give thanks to God!

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Today’s Word: First Sunday of Advent – November 30, 2025

Isaiah 2:1-5

Psalms 122:1-2, 3-4, 4-5, 6-7, 8-9

Romans 13:11-14

Matthew 24:37-44

Today marks the First Sunday of Advent and is the beginning of a new liturgical year (Year A) in the Catholic Church. It focuses on the theme of hope and the call to stay awake and be prepared for the coming of the Lord. The readings encourage us to reflect on actively waiting for Christ’s arrival at Christmas. And not only that, but we also anticipate his promised return in glory. 

As mentioned, Advent is a time of preparation. It is the preparation of our minds and hearts to fully accept the Lord Jesus Christ at Christmas. Advent is an invitation to introspection and spiritual renewal. It encourages setting aside time for quiet and prayer, turning away from distractions, and seeking reconciliation with God and with others. Each week of the Advent season does represent something. Beginning with the first week is the theme of hope. It is followed by faith in the second week, joy in the third and finally peace in the fourth week.

This first week of Advent focuses on the theme of hope. It is symbolized by the first candle lit on the Advent Wreath. John’s Gospel says, “For God so loved the world that he gave his only-begotten Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. For God sent the Son into the world, not to condemn the world, but that they might be saved through him.” (John 3:16-17, The Great Adventure Bible, RSV – 2nd Catholic Edition). This is the hope we have in Jesus’ coming, that we are saved through him. The vision of Isaiah in the First Reading, offers hope amidst current global crises and personal anxieties. The reading speaks of a future time when all nations will walk in God’s light, and weapons of war will be transformed into tools for peace. 

In the second week, the focus turns to faith. It is when the second candle is lit, which reminds us of Mary and Joseph’s journey to Bethlehem, where Jesus would be born, as it is noted in Luke’s Gospel and in Chapter Five in the Book of Micah, which says, “But you, O Bethlehem Ephrathah, who are little to be among the clans of Judah, from you shall come forth for me one who is to be ruler in Israel, whose origin is from of old, from ancient days.” (Micah 5:2, , The Great Adventure Bible, RSV – 2nd Catholic Edition).

The third Sunday of Advent presents the theme of joy. The Prophet Isaiah says, “The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light” and the people “rejoice before you as with joy at the harvest.” (Isaiah 9:2-3, The Great Adventure Bible, RSV – 2nd Catholic Edition). The third candle is lit, usually a rose-colored candle and puts the light of joy in our hearts that our Lord Jesus is near.

Lastly, the fourth Sunday of Advent brings peace. In Isaiah, Jesus is called the “‘Prince of Peace.’” (Isaiah 9:6, The Great Adventure Bible, RSV – 2nd Catholic Edition). Jesus came into the world to bring peace. This peace is the knowledge that we, as believers, have in the Lord that he is the Savior and Redeemer.

As a reminder, preparing for Jesus at Christmas can be difficult and challenging. Just as Jesus warns his disciples in the Gospel reading of Matthew to “stay awake” and “be prepared,” he is telling us to be diligent and be aware for his coming. Jesus does emphasize that the exact time of his return is unknown. So, therefore, the reflection here is on spiritual readiness, urging us to look beyond the superficial hustle and bustle of the holiday season and examine the state of our hearts to be prepared.

The First Sunday of Advent is a reminder that salvation is near and that we are called to be vigilant and active in our faith, ensuring our hearts and lives are prepared to welcome Christ whenever he comes. Therefore, Jesus has an urgent call to action for us. He does not want to passively sit by and wait. St. Paul writes in his letter to the Romans, “Let us then cast off the works of darkness and put on the armor of light,” (Romans 13:12, The Great Adventure Bible, RSV – 2nd Catholic Edition). Paul further says in his letter to live honorably as children of light by putting on “the Lord Jesus Christ.” (Romans 13:14, The Great Adventure Bible, RSV – 2nd Catholic Edition). This means actively working for justice and peace, embodying God’s love, and making the prophetic vision a lived experience in the here and now, rather than speculating on end times.

So, as I will leave you with this scripture, “Rejoice always, pray constantly, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18, The Great Adventure Bible – RSV – 2nd Catholic Edition)

Stay strong with your faith and try to persevere through all hardships. And always…ALWAYS…give thanks to God!

kellym40 faith

Today’s Word: 34th Sunday in Ordinary Time (Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe) – November 23, 2025

2 Samuel 5:1-3

Psalms 122:1-2, 3-4, 4-5

Colossians 1:12-20

Luke 23:35-43

The readings for November 23, 2025, in the Catholic Church celebrate the Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe. This also is the 34th Sunday in Ordinary Time. We are quickly approaching the new liturgical year with Advent just a week away and Christmas soon following. It will soon be a time of reflection and preparing ourselves for the birth of Jesus on Christmas Day. The readings this week focus on Christ’s kingship as manifested through his death on the cross. The readings emphasize that Jesus’ kingship is one of service and salvation, not earthly power, and that his rule is established through his sacrifice, his love, and his ultimate victory over death on the cross.

The First Reading from the Second Book of Samuel talks about David’s anointing as King from the tribes of Israel at Hebron. They believe David will shepherd the people because the Lord said, “‘You shall be shepherd of my people Israel, and you shall be prince over Israel.’” (2 Samuel 5:2, The Great Adventure Bible – RSV – 2nd Catholic Edition). It appears this reading foreshadows Jesus’ kingship, who is the true shepherd and king of his people.

In the New Testament Reading, St. Paul describes Christ as the image of the invisible God and through him all things were created. Paul writes, “He is before all things, and in him all things hold together. He is the head of the body, the Church; he is the beginning, the first-born from the dead, that in everything he might be preeminent.” (Colosssians 1:17-18, The Great Adventure Bible – RSV – 2nd Catholic Edition). This powerful passage establishes Christ’s universal authority as the creator and sustainer of all things, both seen and unseen. It emphasizes that all creation is directed towards him, and his reign is ultimate and complete, because in him “we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.” (Colossians 1:14, The Great Adventure Bible – RSV – 2nd Catholic Edition).

The Gospel from Luke today tells a little of the time of when Jesus was hanging on the cross. I will get to more of that in a moment. But first a quick look at the Psalm for today. As most of the Psalms are songs of praise and worship, giving glory to God. This Psalm is one that depicts the people, Israel, to go “to the house of the Lord!” (Psalm 122:1, The Great Adventure Bible – RSV – 2nd Catholic Edition), and offer praise and to “give thanks to the name of the Lord.” (Psalm 122: 4, The Great Adventure Bible – RSV – 2nd Catholic Edition). The Psalm seems to connect the Old Testament Reading from Samuel to the New Testament Readings, from David, a strong and wise king who was shepherd to the people of Israel, to Jesus, who is Shepherd and King to all people.

While Jesus was on the cross, he was ridiculed by the rulers and soldiers. However, Jeses receives a repentant confession from one of the criminals, “Jesus, remember me when you come in your kingly power,” and Jesus responds, “Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise.” (Luke 23:42-43, The Great Adventure Bible – RSV – 2nd Catholic Edition). This moment, I believe, is a poignant and pivotal moment where Christ’s kingship is most clearly revealed in its suffering and salvific nature. He is not a king of worldly power, but a king who saves others from the cross, and he welcomes a repentant sinner into his kingdom at the very moment of his death. I feel the reading asks us to consider our own response to Christ the King: Do we mock him or acknowledge him in our time of need?

We must ask ourselves that question. And the answer should be that we acknowledge Jesus as Christ the King, the Savior. He is our Redeemer. Just as the Psalm shows his people offering him praise, so shall we do likewise.

So, as I will leave you with this scripture, “O God, you are my God, I seek you, my soul thirsts for you; So I will bless you as long as I live; I will lift up my hands and call on your name.” (Psalm 63:1, 4, The Great Adventure Bible – RSV – 2nd Catholic Edition).

Stay strong with your faith and try to persevere through all hardships. And always…ALWAYS…give thanks to God!

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Today’s Word: 31st Sunday in Ordinary Time (All Souls Day) – November 2, 2025

Wisdom 3:1-9

Psalms 23:1-3, 3-4, 5, 6

Romans 5:5-11

John 6:37-40

Today is the thirty-first Sunday in Ordinary Time. It is also the Commemoration of All the Faithful Departed (All Souls Day). Yesterday, Nov. 1, was All Saints Day. These days are typically celebrated where large Christian populations reside, like Europe, South America and the United States.

Speaking from a Catholic point of view, we recognize and honor the blessed holy ones (saints) who have gone before us. We recognize those that are known and unknown. For All Souls Day, it is a time where we honor and recognize all those (family, friends and so on) who have gone before us, and especially those souls that may still be in purgatory.

Therefore, the readings for today (All Souls Day) seem to emphasize hope in God’s mercy, the importance of prayer and love for all those who have departed before us, and the purification of those souls in purgatory before entering heaven. The key themes include the understanding that the souls of the just are in God’s peace, the belief in salvation through Christ’s sacrifice while still sinners, and the hope for resurrection for all the faithful departed. 

The souls of the just are in God’s care, as it says in the Book of Wisdom (the first reading) today, “But the souls of the righteous are in the hand of God, and no torment will ever touch them.” (Wisdom 3:1, The Great Adventure Bible – Revised Standard Version – 2nd Catholic Edition). We know this brings them peace as the passage continues. It says, “In the eyes of the foolish they seemed to have died, and their departure was thought to be an affliction, and their going from us to be their destruction; but they are at peace.” (Wisdom 3:2-3, The Great Adventure Bible – RSV – 2nd Catholic Edition). This appears to provide a sense of comfort and security, while pointing out that those who have died in God’s grace are not truly lost.

Jumping to the New Testament theme, the reading from Romans emphasizes the idea Christ died for us while we were still sinners, proving God’s love. “But God shows his love for us in that while we were yet sinners Christ died for us. Since, therefore, we are now justified by his blood, much more shall we be saved by him from the wrath of God. For if while we were enemies we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, now that we are reconciled, shall we be saved by his life.” (Romans 5:8-10, The Great Adventure Bible – RSV – 2nd Catholic Edition). The passage further demonstrates that if God has already reconciled us through Christ’s death, we can have even greater confidence in being saved through His life.

Jesus speaks a promise to those listening that he is doing the “will of him who sent me.” (John 6:39, The Great Adventure Bible – RSV – 2nd Catholic Edition). The promise is that for everyone who “sees the Son and believes in him should have eternal life;” (John 6:40, The Great Adventure Bible – RSV – 2nd Catholic Edition), and Jesus will raise them on the last day. This is the hope for resurrection.

Take time to pray for loved ones and all those departed from us. Lift them up in prayer. Pray for yourself as well. You, me, all of us are on a journey to sainthood and purification. Offer those petitions to the Lord this day, and every day.

So I believe this message is good for this week as well as last week. It always seems appropriate. So, as I will leave you with this scripture from Paul’s letter to the Thessalonians, take heart in Paul’s words, where he writes, “Rejoice always, pray constantly, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 – RSV – 2nd Catholic Edition)

Stay strong with your faith and try to persevere through all hardships. And always…ALWAYS…give thanks to God!

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Today’s Word: 30th Sunday in Ordinary Time – October 26, 2025

Sirach 35:12-14, 16-18

Psalms 34:2-3, 17-18, 19, 23

2 Timothy 4:6-8, 16-18

Luke 18:9-14

Today we reflect on the readings for the 30th Sunday in Ordinary Time. Looking at the readings for today, it appears the three readings from Sirach, Second Timothy and Luke’s Gospel show us a clear, but challenging, message – true prayer is rooted in humility, not pride. So let’s look at Today’s Word.

First, I will look at the Psalm today. Again, it is a hymn of praise and rejoicing. It is rejoicing in God’s justice and responsiveness to those who approach him with humility and sincerity. It also echoes the message from the first reading that the Lord will hear those with a humble heart when they make their cries heard.

“The prayer of the humble pierces the clouds, and he will not be consoled until it reaches the Lord,” (Sirach 35:17, The Great Adventure Bible, Revised Standard Version – 2nd Catholic Edition). This reading from the Book of Sirach establishes the core theme by emphasizing God’s justice and attentiveness to the humble. Sirach assures us that God is not swayed by outward status or wealth. He hears the prayers of those who cry out from a place of oppression or injustice and brings them mercy. 

In St. Paul’s letter to Timothy, Paul is writing near the end of his life and reflects on his ministry with a posture of gratitude and faith, not pride. He tells Timothy, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” (2 Timothy 4:7, The Great Adventure Bible, Revised Standard Version – 2nd Catholic Edition). He persevered through hardships and is now in prison, and even then, did not give up his faith. Paul acknowledges that it was the Lord who stood by him and gave him the strength to persevere. His reliance on God, rather than his own abilities, serves as an example of humble faith. The reading continues with this line from the passage, which shows his enduring faith, “From now on there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will award to me on that Day, and not only to me but also to all who have loved his appearing.” (2 Timothy 4:8, The Great Adventure Bible, Revised Standard Version – 2nd Catholic Edition).

This leads us to today’s Gospel, which is again from Luke. Again, in this passage Jesus speaks a parable. Last week we heard the parable of the widow and unrighteous judge. This teaching for the day teaches us, I believe, about the power of humility. The parable in today’s Gospel contrasts a proud Pharisee with a humble tax collector. The Pharisee, praying in the Temple, boasts of his righteousness and religious deeds, even congratulating himself for not being like other sinners, particularly the tax collector, who is just a little ways away from the Pharisee. The Pharisee’s prayer is self-congratulatory rather than a humble appeal to God, while the tax collector, not even attempting to look up to heaven, simply prays, “God, be merciful to me, a sinner.” (Luke 18:13, The Great Adventure Bible, Revised Standard Version – 2nd Catholic Edition).  His prayer is short, from the heart, and humble.

As we know from other Gospel passages, the Pharisees liked to be seen while praying. They took seats of honor in the synagogue and such. They believed they needed to be seen by others to justify their own self-righteousness so they could be pleasing to God. That, of course, is simply not the case, as evidenced by the tax collector who is humbly praying to God for mercy because he is a sinner and knows it.  Jesus concludes the parable by saying, “I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other; for everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but he who humbles himself will be exalted.” (Luke 18:14, The Great Adventure Bible, Revised Standard Version – 2nd Catholic Edition).

The readings challenge us to examine our hearts and the posture of our prayer. Do we approach God with a list of our accomplishments and a comparison of ourselves to others, like the Pharisee? Or do we come before God with honesty, recognizing our failings and our need for his mercy, like the tax collector? The message is that God values a contrite heart over religious posturing and self-righteousness. 

In the readings, humility is presented not as a weakness but, I believe,  as the key that unlocks God’s grace. The tax collector’s humble prayer was powerful precisely because it came from a place of honest self-awareness. And, as seen in the parable, it invites us to take a path of courageous humility and dependence on God. 

A concluding thought here is that readings seem to offer a reminder that our faith journey is not a race, (as Paul mentions in his letter) but is a continuous walk with God that requires reliance on his mercy. Like Paul, we can trust that in our weakness, God’s strength is sufficient.

I will leave you with the idea of persistence and remaining faithful and reliant on his mercy with this scripture from Paul’s letter to the Thessalonians where he writes, “Rejoice always, pray constantly, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18, RSV – 2nd Catholic Edition)

Stay strong with your faith and try to persevere through all hardships. And always…ALWAYS…give thanks to God!

kellym40 General

Today’s Word: 29th Sunday in Ordinary Time – October 19, 2025

Exodus 17:8-13

Psalms 121:1-2, 3-4, 5-6, 7-8

2 Timothy 3:14-4:2

Luke 18:1-8

Greetings everyone. This week the Sunday readings consist of themes of persistent prayer and lasting faith. I am going to particularly focus on three of the readings in today’s post. I believe these three passages show that a persistent reliance on God is necessary for victory, righteousness, and eternal life. So let’s get into the readings for the 29th Sunday in Ordinary Time.

The first reading from Exodus tells the story of the Israelites’ battle with Amalek. As Joshua and his troops fight, Moses stands on a hill holding the staff of God. As long as Moses holds his hands up, the Israelites take control and readily win the fighting However,  when Moses’ arms get tired and fall, Amalek and his army start to win. Moses must rely on Aaron and Hur to hold his arms up for him until the battle is won. 

I believe this shows how Moses’s persistent, intercessory prayer demonstrates that God is the true power behind any success, and not on the strength of the Israelite army. When Moses gets tired and requires assistance from Aaron and Hur to help him illustrates how prayer can be difficult and tiring. This, I feel, reflects the idea that we,  as a Christian community, should support one another in faith and intercession

In the New Testament, the second reading from St. Paul’s letter to Timothy, Paul urges Timothy to remain faithful to the scriptures he learned in his youth, and to continue to preach the word diligently because “All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.” (2 Timothy 3:16-17, The Great Adventure Bible, Revised Standard Version – 2nd Catholic Edition). St. Paul tells Timothy to remain steadfast in preaching the Word because the task of spreading the Gospel is difficult at times and hardships can occur.

Today in Luke’s Gospel, Jesus tells another parable. This story is about the persistent widow who goes to a judge repeatedly in order to render a just sentence. As many times throughout the gospels, Jesus teaches through the stories in order to teach his disciples lessons. In this particular story, the lesson is “they ought always to pray and not lose heart.” (Luke 18:1, The Great Adventure Bible, Revised Standard Version – 2nd Catholic Edition). The parable states a widow continually asks a corrupt and unjust judge for a just ruling against her opponent. The judge, who “neither feared God nor regard for man;” (Luke 18:2, The Great Adventure Bible, Revised Standard Version – 2nd Catholic Edition), eventually gives in just to basically get her off his back and stop bothering him. He didn’t believe in God or did not care about anyone else. So, in this, it feels like Jesus contrasts the unrighteous judge with a just and loving God. This means, if a corrupt official will act because of persistence, how much more then will a righteous God offer and give justice and good things to those who cry out to him?

The parable also seems to reassure believers that God hears their prayers and will act on behalf of his people. And remember, as I have talked about this before, God works in his own time. So the answer may not present itself right away or when you would like. And it may not be the exact answer you were looking for. This process requires confident and persistent faith, even when God’s response seems delayed.

Jesus concludes this parable ends with a touching question. Jesus asks his disciples, “when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on earth?” (Luke 18:8, The Great Adventure Bible, Revised Standard Version – 2nd Catholic Edition). This, I believe, seems to challenge listeners to consider whether they will remain faithful and persistent in prayer and trust in God’s timing and will. 

The theme of persistence and remaining faithful reminds me of this scripture from Paul’s letter to the Thessalonians where he writes, “Rejoice always, pray constantly, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18, RSV – 2nd Catholic Edition)

Stay strong with your faith and try to persevere through all hardships. And always…ALWAYS…give thanks to God!