January 27, 2012 by Claire Bischoff This week’s Gospel (Mark 1:21-28) describes Jesus commanding “an unholy spirit” to come out of a man. The people who observe this act wonder at the authority Jesus possesses, exclaiming that even the unholy spirits obey his word. Many people in the technological and scientific world of today might […]
“Unholy Spirits” and the Power of Prayer Read More »
“Rise to Me,” The Decemberists, The King Is Dead, Capitol Records Gospel Reflection: Not only does Jesus speak with authority in Sunday’s gospel, his actions match his words as he casts out a demon. Even when it would have been easier to ignore the possessed man, Jesus stands his ground and sets him free. “Rise
“Rise To Me,” SPIRIT Xtra for January 29, 2012 Read More »
There was a man in the synagogue with an unclean spirit. He cried out, “What do you want from us, Jesus of Nazareth? Have you come to destroy us? I know who you are―the Holy One of God! Jesus rebuked him saying, “Be silent. Go out of the man.” At that the unclean spirit convulsed
A Gospel Reflection for January 29, 2012, 4th Sunday in Ordinary Time Read More »
“You Are a Tourist,” Death Cab for Cutie, Codes and Keys, Atlantic Recording Gospel Reflection: When Jesus begins to call his followers, their lives take a radically different turn. They leave their fishing nets behind. In “You Are a Tourist” the band Death Cab for Cutie describes how following our hearts can lead us into
“You Are a Tourist” – SPIRIT Xtra for January 22, 2012 Read More »
As Jesus was walking along the Sea of Galilee, he saw Simon and his brother Andrew, casting a fish net in the sea. They fished for a living. Jesus called to them, “Come after me. I will make you fishers of people.” Immediately they left their nets and followed Jesus. Mark 1.16-18 Gospel writer Mark
Gospel Reflection for January 22, 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Read More »
Facebook, Google and a multitude of Global Positioning Systems make it almost impossible for people to be anonymous today. Websites and articles at our fingertips can prove or disprove almost every mystery we encounter. We share information with people we don’t even know. Maybe that is why the story of the Magi is so enthralling.
“Cup of Sorrow,” Amos Lee, Mission Bell, Blue Note Records Gospel Reflection: Just as Jesus invites disciples in Sunday’s gospel to come to his house and hang out, so also Jesus invites us to “come and see” who he is. How we respond matters. “Cup of Sorrow” is a song about responding to the invitation,
“Cup of Sorrow,” SPIRIT Xtra for January 15 Read More »
Two disciples were following Jesus so he questioned them, “What do you seek?” They asked him, “Teacher, where do you stay?” Jesus responded, “Come and see.” They went and saw where he stayed and remained with him that day. It was about four in the afternoon. John 1:38-39 Andrew and an unnamed disciple go and
Gospel Reflection for January 15, 2nd Sunday in Ordinary Time Read More »
The magi were overjoyed at seeing the star, and on entering the house, found the child with Mary, his mother. They prostrated themselves and did him homage. Then they opened their coffers and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. Matthew 2.10-11 Matthew’s learned Gentiles, the magi, discover through their study of the
A Gospel Reflection for January 8, Epiphany Read More »
Mary pondered all these words in her heart. Luke 2.19 For insight into Mary, the Mother of God on her feast day, Sunday’s gospel offers only the fact she has given birth and the single sentence above. That sentence turns on the single word pondered. This word suggests her character in the narrative. Mary ponders
Gospel Reflection for January 1, Mary Mother of God Read More »