The attitude of constant vigilance is basic for a truly Christian life. Jesus uses two parables today to call us to a life of vigilance: the vigilant master of the house guarding against thieves and the prudent, faithful servant. It is very easy for us to adopt an...
In this section of Matthew’s Gospel Jesus is in constant debate and conflict with the scribes and pharisees. As the religious leaders of Israel, they should have been calling the people to holiness and a deeper relationship with God. They set up a form of relating to...
Jesus is teaching in the temple when the religious leaders, the pharisees and chief priests, ask him with what authority he bases his teachings. He does not answer their questions directly. Rather he responds with some parables or teachings regarding the reign of God....
I have often wondered why the disciples were so startled by Jesus’ statement that being rich and being Christian are generally incompatible. None of them were rich. Why were they so disturbed by this statement? Why was Jesus’ encounter with the good, young, rich man...
We continue to hear the prophet Ezekiel condemn the people of Israel for their infidelities. Through the protection and action of God, Israel grew from a being an abandoned, discarded, and enslaved into having the dignity and shining beauty of a queen. But the people...
