John the Baptist speaks about Jesus, saying, “I baptize with water for the sake of reform, but the one who will follow me is more powerful than I. I am not even fit to carry his sandals. He will baptize you in the Holy Spirit and fire.” Matthew 3.11 Fierce and holy like the prophet […]
Gospel Reflection for December 8, 2013, Second Sunday of Advent Read More »
John the Baptist challenges the Pharisees and Sadducees to live lives that match the words they speak in this Sunday’s gospel. People in our world obsess with image. To live true to what we believe and who we really want to be is hard. The song “Red Hands” describes the challenge of being honest with
Current Music and the Gospel: December 8 SPIRIT Xtra Read More »
This coming Sunday we celebrate the Feast of Christ the King, a relatively new feast in the two century-long history of the Catholic church. It was instituted in 1925 through the encyclical Quas Primas by Pope Pius XI, who believed that respect for Christ and Christ’s Church was waning due to the rise of secularism.
Feast of Christ the King Read More »
Jesus said, “You must be prepared. The Son of Man is coming at a time you do not know.” Matthew 23.44 Advent is time of remembering God’s fidelity and God’s desires for relationship with God’s people. We are pregnant with the Spirit and in labor to bring God’s kingdom to birth among us. Now is
Gospel Reflection for December 1st, 1st Sunday of Advent Read More »
Advent begins the liturgical year in the Roman Catholic Church. A new year is a time of change, and in the gospel this Sunday, Jesus warns his followers to prepare for great changes. We can reflect on the past year and challenge ourselves for the year to come. “Radioactive” is a song about a time
Current Music and the Gospel: SPIRIT Xtra December 1st Read More »
Jesus was crucified between two criminals. One belittled Jesus while the second criminal believed. The second criminal said, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.” Jesus responded, “I assure you this day you will be with me in paradise.” Luke 23.42-43 Jesus is no ordinary king. He reigns from the cross, not a
Gospel Reflection for November 24, Feast of Christ the King Read More »
As we celebrate the Feast of Christ the King, we remember that Jesus’ power is not riches, fame, or political power but the power of love and forgiveness. Our culture celebrates glamorous royals and celebrity gossips, but as Christians we know that these things will not last forever. The song “Royals” is about the rejection
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Jesus asks, “Take care not to be misled. Many will come in my name saying, ‘I am he,’ and, ‘The time is at hand.’ Do not run after them.” Many people speak in Jesus’ name today, quoting passages like Sunday’s gospel. Luke is writing his gospel for people like us, living in the time between
Gospel Reflection for November 17, 2013, 33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Read More »
http://youtu.be/DaIZhKkgteA In Sunday’s gospel Jesus reminds his disciples that their trust in him will help them find their way through any catastrophe. Jesus’ promise of love and protection reassures the disciples, who often feel frightened and confused. The song “Hopeless Wanderer” is a reminder that even through our most difficult times, we can trust that
Current Music and the Gospel: SPIRIT Xtra for November 17 Read More »