One of the most important events in an Athletics competition is the relay race. And one of the most crucial moments of this race is the baton change. 

The readings of today invite us to respond to God’s call. In our Christian tradition we call it ‘vocation’. 

Imagine there are two people having this conversation, “If you really love me, then prove it!” A girl asks her boyfriend. The boyfriend responds, “Let’s go outside and let’s watch your favourite movie, ‘Godzilla’! The girl responds, “Yeah! You really love me!!! I can’t imagine you who love watching rugby, would join me watching a movie about a giant lizard!!!”

This Gospel text always brings a smile to my face. I am not sure if it is because I so enjoy reading about this episode in the resurrected life of Jesus or because it brings back so many fond memories of my days in the Seminary.

Today’s Gospel is the beginning of Jesus’ Sermon “on the Mount” (according to Matthew – “on the Plain” according to Luke) – an extended instruction for his disciples.

Today’s Gospel text focuses on two events: the beginning of Jesus’ preaching in Galilee and the choice of the first apostles. Mark tells the story of each event in a very brief way.

A good master teaches his apprentice how a work is done so that if ever the master goes, he knows that at any time the apprentice could take over and continue the work.

To borrow another story from my friend, Fr Bel San Luis, SVD: There was a man who just came back from church after attending mass.

Love, a simple word, consists of only four letters, pronounced with one syllable since the e is silent, and yet by nature requires the passionate characteristic. 

In sports, the dream of an athlete is to be the best, to be at the top, to be number one.