The Gospel for the
1st and 21st Centuries

February 16, 2020
Matthew 5: 17:35

In our “I’ll decide what’s right for me” culture, the word “commandment” seems to strike an outmoded note. But Jesus calls them the 10 Commandments not the 10 Suggestions. They are God’s recipe for living a life at peace and in harmony with God and our fellow humans. Our attempts to obey and live out deeply the implications of the commandments are a good indicator of whether our faith plays an active or passive role in our lives.

February 2, 2020
Luke 2:22-32

On this feast of the Presentation of the Lord in the Jerusalem Temple, the aged Simeon sees clearly who Jesus is and what he is about — salvation. Jesus’ mission is to save, heal and reconcile ALL. When we, with and in the Holy Spirit, do these same things we make Him present again in us, in our community and in our world. Can you “see” Jesus?

January 26, 2020
Matthew 4:12-23

“Come, follow me.” Jesus’ invitation to a life of faith and service is enshrined in the very word we use to describe ourselves “Christ-ian.” But, as Fr. Richard Fragomeni is fond of pointing out, “Jesus Christ has a lot of admirers — not so many followers.” How to follow Jesus? Serve others. Share God’s grace and mercy. Care for those in need physically, emotionally or spiritually. Be a peaceful person. A tall order? Yes. But remember: God doesn’t call the qualified, but qualifies the called.

January 5, 2020

Matthew 2: 1-12

You can get a Christmas card or T-shirt emblazoned with silhouettes of the Magi and the caption “Wise ones still seek Him.” The scriptures say they were urged to “Seek diligently for the Child.” Is this just a pious saying for you or do you actively seek Jesus’ Presence? After all, we are assured by Him “seek and you will find ….”

December 29, 2019

Matthew 2: 13-15, 19-23

Have you ever had to move your family, on short notice under adverse circumstances, to an area foreign to you? Imagine how Joseph felt leaving his familiar surroundings and taking Mary and Jesus, as refugees, to a strange land because Jesus life was threatened. Do you try to recall this flight into Egypt when your family has to relocate? Now think of the many refugee families fleeing violence and hatred today. Can you extend to them your understanding and compassion.

December 22, 2019

Matthew 1: 18-24

Imagine Joseph’s doubt and confusion over Mary’s pregnancy. Yet his obedience to God is just as radical as Mary’s “fiat.” It took both of them to safely bring to birth Jesus, the guarantee of our salvation. When faced with a challenging situation, can you trust in God as deeply as they both did? Pray for discernment and acceptance of God’s will.

December 15, 2019

Matthew 11: 2-11

John the Baptist is imprisoned. Perhaps Jesus doesn’t seem like the kind of Messiah he was expecting. Jesus sends a message “Go and tell John what you hear and see: the blind regain their sight, the lame walk ­— the poor have good news proclaimed to them.” Jesus is here for everyone. Proclaim your love of Jesus this season by doing good for others.

December 8, 2019

Matthew 3:1-12

John the Baptist, at the Jordan River, is immersing people acknowledging repentance of their sins. John announces Jesus telling the people that Jesus will baptize with the Spirit and Fire. This is the Second Sunday of Advent and we should be preparing ourselves for Christmas, the Feast of Jesus’ birth. Plan on attending St. Thomas Parish Reconciliation service on the evening of December 11.

Mark it on your ‘must do’ list.

December 1, 2019

Matthew 24:37-44

With this weekend, we begin a new liturgical year concentrating on the Gospel of Matthew which emphasizes continually the fulfillment of the Old Testament in Jesus. As we begin Advent, we are urged to stay awake and prepare for our ‘last days’! Is this a frightening thought? “O house of Jacob, come, let us walk in the light of the Lord.” In the first reading, Isaiah expresses joy in the fulfillment with God’s plan for the world. Are we able to look positively at our lives and realize the best is yet to come?

November 24, 2019

Luke 23: 35-43

Just think of it: the Chosen One, the Son of God, the King of the Universe humbly accepted an unjust death for us imperfect, flawed human beings. And because of that, the very life of God flows through us in the Eucharist. Let us bow our heads in wonder and thanksgiving.

November 17, 2019

Luke 21: 5-19
When we listen to the Gospel today, most of us think “ all these are happening today, is this the end?” Jesus is saying that as his Father created the world, he can also end it. This life is temporary and imperfect. It is only through our belief, perseverance and love of God that we can weather the disasters and storms of life that occur today. Are you prepared to hang on and trust that God will see you through?

November 10, 2019

Luke 20:27-38
How convinced are you in the Resurrection of the Dead? Many people today think this is no more than wishful thinking. But our Faith is that the God in whom we believe — the God who is the Great “I AM” — lives in and with us in life. In death, we will live in God forever.

November 3, 2019

Luke 19:1-10
How do you feel about unexpected guests? Do you freak out or smile warmly and say, “Come on in?” Now suppose it is Jesus himself whose eye you catch and he invites himself in, as he did with Zaccheus. Is your spiritual house in order or would some dusting off and freshening up be a good idea? Cleaning products are many and readily available — repentance, honesty, service, prayer, Eucharist … Take your pick.