Jesus “asked his disciples, “Who do people say that the Son of Man is?” They replied, “Some say John the Baptist, others Elijah, still others Jeremiah or one of the prophets.” He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” Simon Peter said in reply, “You are the Christ, the Son…
Jesus tells of a Pharisee who has the habit of going up “to the Temple area to pray.” He feels at home there but will not extend that feeling to another who has joined him. For, while there, the Pharisee’s prayer habit is to insult and ostracize those he judges as not belonging there…
Jesus is naming the many terrors rulers always devise and challenging us about them. Be peacemakers during the terror of rulers and their soldiers who will always devise “wars and insurrections.” Be conscientious when rulers and their soldiers devise for “nation to rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom,” as they always do. Be…
Jesus tells a parable this Sunday about a conniving steward caught “squandering the master’s property.” Though caught, he does not stop his conniving. He merely shifts it to “his master’s debtors one by one.” He does so for personal benefit, figuring, “when I am removed from the stewardship, they may welcome me into their…
Isaiah spends much of his writing affirming Yahweh’s persecution of disobedient Chosen People. In the last chapter, Isaiah tells the obedient, “Everyone will see the LORD’s hand of blessing on his servants and his anger against his enemies.” In the Gospel, Jesus missions common people to bless enemies and to expect persecution in return,…
Jesus knows Judas is about to betray him to the rulers who will kill him. Jesus takes responsibility to reach out lovingly to Judas. He shares a communion meal with Judas. Jesus is honest and addresses Judas and his betrayal at the meal. Judas unfortunately goes through with the betrayal. However, we know Judas…
The disciples have recently returned from sharing Jesus’ Way of communion, love, and healing power with people. One consequence is disciples being targeted for persecution. Another consequence is disciples being targeted for acclaim. Thus, Jesus says to them, “Come away by yourselves to a deserted place and rest.” He does not want disciples to…
Jesus’ many healings upset rulers, especially his exorcisms; the driving out of a demonic or divisive force. The rulers are upset because, in truth, Jesus is driving them out; their rule is a demonic and divisive force. Rulers would drive us mad with their demonic divisiveness of priests over laity, bosses over workers, whites…
“Keep the faith,” is an old adage. It is said as encouragement and meant to bolster friends and their attitude in a given circumstance. It is often said routinely and perhaps humorously. But it is just as importantly said and meant in difficult circumstances; times when faith may be all that keeps us going.…