Martin Luther once wrote, "Can a rock that has been in the sunlight all day not fail to give off warmth and heat at night? Can a Christian who has lived in the sunlight of God's love not fail to give off warmth and love?

“I have come to set the earth on fire.” Friends, these are strong words. 

Life is such a delicate balance. We have always lived on the edge with one toe dangling somewhat half-heartedly into the future and the greater part of ourselves clinging as if magnetized to my present place. That in itself is ironic, for the spot to which we cling was only yesterday.

All three readings of today’s liturgy make reference to material possessions. We live in a world where the wise management of finances, property and possessions is necessary and even praiseworthy, and yet there is a fine line between earning enough and being rich.

One of the best-selling books lately is the “…for Dummies” series. This series is so popular because it has something for everybody.

At this time of year shop-keepers encourage us to celebrate "Christmas in July". Their motive is purely commercial: Get people to buy presents for each other, to have parties…..do things that will boost the economy. In actual fact, though, there's no reason why we shouldn't reflect on the message of Christmas in July, or at any other time of the year.

Friends, this little story of Martha and Mary which is our gospel for this weekend has a way of getting into our minds.

Pleading ignorance seems to be an ancient device.

The Lord of the harvest continually sends each of us into His plentiful harvest to be agents of peace, healing and liberation.

The opening verse sets the tone for this Sunday’s gospel reading “…he set his face to go to Jerusalem.”

In the Scriptures vineyards are often mentioned. A vineyard is, of course, a type of garden.

Imagine the disciples of Jesus being asked the question, “Who do you say I am?” For the disciples, they thought that this might be a test.

Today’s gospel invites us to surrender ourselves at the feet of Jesus in an act of humility and repentance and to open ourselves to be immensely loved by God.

Both Elijah and Jesus are moved with compassion in the face of suffering and death.

In almost all cultures, we show our hospitality by offering people food. For many of us, we see food as a way to connect, we see food as a way to forge relationships.