Jesus reveals who he is more fully Peter, James, and John in the transfiguration gospel this Sunday. The vision anticipating Jesus’ resurrection scares, confuses, and amazes the three disciples. Fear can cause us to hide our true selves from those around us. It can keep us from recognizing who someone else really is; it can […]
Music and the Gospel: “Do Right,” Glades, 2nd Sunday of Lent Read More »
Some relationships bring out the best in us; they teach us compassion and forgiveness. Other relationships challenge our values and perceptions of who we are and what we want. Gavin James’ song “Hearts on Fire” is about relationships and the challenges that occur when we’re pulled in different directions. Key lines: Strangers in my head
Music and the Gospel: “Hearts on Fire,” Gavin James Read More »
We all experience times when we lose self-confidence and berate ourselves for not being smart enough or good looking enough, for not fitting into what social media, advertising, even our own peers, tell us is the “popular” way to look and act. These can be challenging times that affect how we see ourselves and our
Music and the Gospel: “Burn So Bright,” Bella Thorne Read More »
Jesus heals Peter’s mother-in-law and everyone who crowds his doorway; then he goes on to another village to proclaim the good news of God’s nearness. This is the same Jesus who loves and stands by us. The song “Rockabye” is about how people who love give us strength. Key Lyrics: She tells him “ooh love”
Music and the Gospel: “Rockabye,” Clean Bandit ft. Sean Paul & Anne-Marie Read More »
When someone we love is going through a tough time, we can easily make excuses and ignore issues. We don’t want to anger or hurt a friend. But an alcoholic parent or a bully can push us into action. At these times it’s best to take a page out of Jesus’ book, address issues honestly
Music and the Gospel: “Howlin’ Wind,” VACAY Read More »
Jesus begins his ministry with these words: “This is the time of fulfillment. The reign of God draws near. Change your attitude and believe in the Gospel.” Jesus serves as the ultimate role model in how we should treat ourselves and each other; he challenges unjust laws and perspectives; he teaches us the importance of
Music and the Gospel: “Brand New Eyes,” Bea Miller Read More »
Heifer International is an organization that makes its mission to eradicate poverty and hunger in the world, a mission like Jesus’ own. It is featured in Spirit this week. Heifer educates people about the lives of people who need help with the basics to thrive. The learning center invites young people to experience a “day
Music and the Gospel: “Tapestry,” Liv Dawson, 2nd Sunday Ordinary Time Read More »
Our global world fills our minds with challenging thoughts to complement and compete with our own worldviews. The song “New Religion” is about what can guide us as we travel our own paths. What inspires us to be our better selves? What calls us beyond our individual selves into friendship and community? We may be
Music and the Gospel: “New Religion,” The Heydaze Read More »
We sometimes feel God’s presence in our life in surprising ways. Sometimes we can find God by taking a simple walk and connecting with the world around us. Other times, God’s presence arises in times of personal pain and darkness, times when we wonder “why me?” This week’s SPIRIT makes us aware that taking a
Music and the Gospel: “Arms Open,” The Script, 4th Sunday of Advent Read More »
Grace VanderWaal challenges us to see more in ourselves and our lives than we recognize in our day to day actions. When we recognize and cultivate our talents, we can find ways to lead and work for good. In doing this, we follow John the Baptist, who “gave witness to the light.” When we share
Music and the Gospel: “So Much More Than This,” Grace VanderWaal, 3rd Sunday of Advent Read More »