Scripture Reflections

Of the Four Gospels, only the Gospel of Luke includes the story of Zacchaeus.

 

For everybody who believes in a higher being like what we call God, prayer is not only optional but is essential ...

Wednesday, 23 October 2013 17:47

Belonging - a reflection

Everyone wants to belong somewhere. We all like to feel included…

 

Friday, 18 October 2013 07:36

World Mission Sunday

One important development in Catholic missionary practice after Vatican II was an emphasis on dialogue.

 

How often do we forget the people who have helped us get where we are, as if everything we have accomplished has been solely our own doing?

As Jesus and his disciples are on the way to Jerusalem, they stop for a breather. Suddenly they say, "Lord, increase our Faith." Why did they say this?

 

This Sunday Luke provides one of Jesus’ more powerful parables for our consideration: 

 

frbillbburtsvd 150Bridges are among the most important structures that are built in probably every society. Long or short, low or tall, made from rock, concrete, steel, wood or maybe from vines and bamboo, bridges are built to enable people to connect to each other. While made for practical reasons, they are very often things of great beauty. From ancient times till the present, people have designed bridges that not only bring people together but also have a "wow" factor. We can marvel at the engineering expertise of the designers and builders of the bridges we use, while at the same time admire their beauty.

 

Friday, 20 September 2013 18:19

25th Sunday in Ordinary Time

Let’s say that you are on a boat with all your belongings as you are transferring house. Then there is a big storm and slowly the boat is taking on some water.

There is a logic to grace that is just confounding to the logic of justice. We have all come of age in a time where the logic of justice prevails.

Friday, 06 September 2013 11:46

23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time

I imagine Jesus chuckling at us as he asks, “If one of you decides to build a tower, will he not first sit down and calculate the outlay to see if he has enough money to complete the project?”

The first reading of today's liturgy and Luke's Gospel account of conducting oneself properly at a wedding feast have a common theme: that of pride versus humility.

Last week, we had a severe earthquake here in Wellington. It struck at about 2:30 in the afternoon with a magnitude of 6.5. 

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. 

 

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