Friar Daily Reflection
Jesus the Carpenter
In today’s Gospel we hear how Jesus offends the people in his hometown. What offended or scandalized the people of his native place? It does not seem to be his teaching in the synagogue since we hear that “many who heard him were astonished.” They acknowledge that...
Two Loves
Today’s readings place before us two parents, two children, and two very different outcomes of love. In the first reading, we hear David’s cry — raw, unfiltered, and devastating: “O my son Absalom! My son, my son!” This is love stripped of dignity and defense. David’s...
Into the Quiet
The Feast of the Presentation is, at first glance, a quiet scene. There is no miracle, no crowd, no proclamation from heaven. Like faithful, observant parents, another young couple brings a child to the Temple, offers the sacrifice of the poor, and blends into the...
Was Jesus a Failure?
In today’s Gospel Jesus tells stories or parables. The first one is the Parable of the Sower, and the second one is the Parable of the Mustard Seed. Jesus begins by telling us that these two parables describe the Kingdom of God. Jesus has already announced this...
King David and Jesus
In today’s first reading we hear the thanksgiving prayer of King David after the prophet Nathan declares God words of promise to David: “Moreover, the LORD also declares to you that the LORD will make a house for you: when your days have been completed and you rest...
Being Prepared
It is striking how sincere David’s plan is in the first reading. He looks around, sees that he lives in a house of cedar while the Ark of God dwells in a tent, and he decides to do something generous for God. His intention is good. His desire is faithful. And yet God...
Being Family
In the first reading, great care is taken to describe the moment when the Ark of the Covenant is brought into Jerusalem. This is not simply a religious procession; it is a profound statement of faith. The Ark represents the dwelling place of God among the people....
Polarization and Demonization
We are all aware of the polarization in our country as many of our leaders tend to emphasize more how we disagree than how we agree. This polarization often leads to the demonization of our “opponent” or our “enemy.” It is quite disheartening at times to read social...
Persistence: Ask and You Shall Receive
God has many ways of speaking with us: the Word of God, events in our lives, historical situations, council from our friends, tradition, and Church teachings. Another way God speaks to us is through the lives and example of the saints. Sometimes we think that the...
Gift of Healing and Life
In today’s Gospel we have a summary of Jesus going about curing, healing and driving out demons. Jesus preached the coming of the Kingdom of God: “After John had been arrested, Jesus came to Galilee proclaiming the gospel of God: ‘This is the time of fulfillment. The...