In today’s first reading from the Acts of the Apostles, Paul and Silas are stripped, beaten, and thrown into prison. Their only “crime” was setting a slave girl free from possession by a spirit – and interfering with the men who profited by her oracles. But what...
This is my commandment: love one another as I love you…You are my friends if you do what I command you.” (John 15:12,14) I have to admit the words “if you do what I command you” have always struck me as somewhat “off.” These words come in the middle of a long...
The vineyard does not just happen by itself. There is a complex dance between the vine, the branches and the vine grower. For example, did you know that a single grape-vine can produce as much as 13 feet of new branch growth in one growing season. What happens if all...
What kind of peace do you seek? Merriam-Webster defines “peace” as tranquility, quiet, freedom from disturbance, harmony and similar expressions. Today, let us take a look at what Jesus might mean when he says, “my peace I give to you.” In today’s Gospel, Jesus speaks...
“As the Father loves me, so I also love you. Remain in my love. If you keep my commandments, you will remain in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commandments and remain in his love.” (John 15:9-10) But have you noticed the nature of “love” that is the focus?...
