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
Current Music & the Gospel: Spirit XTRA November 24 Read More »
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 »
Jesus said, “God is not God of the dead but of the living. All are alive to God.” Luke 20.38 In Sunday’s gospel a Sadducee poses a question to Jesus regarding the law of Moses. The law states a man is to marry his brother’s widow if she is childless. The Sadducee presents a case
Gospel Reflection for November 10, 2013, 32nd Sunday in Ordinary Time Read More »
Jesus teaches the Sadducees that all are alive in God, which assures us those we love who have gone before us are safe. The song “Safe and Sound” celebrates a relationship that can stay strong through mystery and even beyond death. Key Lines: I could show you love / In a tidal wave of mystery
Current Music and the Gospel: SPIRIT Xtra for November 10 Read More »
Jesus asks, “Today salvation has come to this house for he, too, is a son of Abraham. The Son of Man has come to seek out and save the lost.” Luke 19.9-10 Jesus’ final statement in the gospel makes his mission clear: he comes to seek out and save the lost. Jesus draws Zacchaeus, the
Gospel Reflection for November 3, 31st Sunday in Ordinary Time Read More »
When Jesus befriends Zacchaeus, he doesn’t care about the reactions from other people. In this Sunday’s gospel both Zacchaeus and Jesus show qualities of true friends – not caring about appearances or other people’s opinions, taking care of each other, and reaching out when in need. The song “Gone, Gone, Gone” is about the way
Current Music and the Gospel: SPIRIT Xtra for November 3 Read More »
Jesus emphasizes humility in Sunday’s gospel. He holds the sinner who asks God for forgiveness more justified than the Pharisee who wants God to appreciate how pious he is. The song, “You and Me (But Mostly Me)” is a tongue in cheek look at two young missionaries setting out with one taking the lead and
Current Music and the Gospel: Spirit Xtra for October 27 Read More »
Jesus asks, “All who make little of themselves will be lifted up, but all who make much of themselves will be brought down.” Luke 18.14 In this Sunday’s gospel Jesus tells the story of the Pharisee and the tax collector. The Pharisee supposes the very prayer that distanced him from the tax collector brings him
Gospel Reflection for October 27, 2013, 30th Sunday in Ordinary Time Read More »