Faith vs. Power

Faith vs. Power: Epiphany

We can learn a lot from the faith of the Magi.  How often do we, who have the full revelation of Jesus Christ and his Gospel, instead seek our own worldly agenda, following the example of miserable King Herod?

We Three Kings

We Three Kings: Music for Epiphany

"We Three Kings of Orient Are . . ."  Is there anyone out there who doesn't know this song? It's easily the most familiar hymn associated with Epiphany, at least as we celebrate the feast in the Western Church.

paradox of christmas

The Paradox of Christmas and St. Thomas Becket: 5th Day of Christmas

Today, on the 5th Day of Christmas,  we find ourselves celebrating yet another martyr, St. Thomas Becket, Archbishop of Canterbury, murdered by knights in the service of King Henry II of England on December 29th, 1170.

Love at the Foot of the Cross: 3rd Day of Christmas

John is beloved because he is a disciple who himself loves much - so much that he alone of the Apostles follows Christ all the way to Calvary and stands with the Blessed Mother and Mary Magdalene at the foot of the Cross.  He is our model in loving discipleship.  

St. Stephen

St. Stephen and the Incarnation: 2nd Day of Christmas

We need to embrace the Gospel in its entirety. The joy of the Nativity leads to the sorrow of Cavalry, which itself prepares the way for the still greater glory of Easter. 

Reasons for the Season . . . of Advent (1st Sunday)

Mary, heavy with Child, and Joseph are just now leaving Nazareth; the Magi are still far from Bethlehem, doggedly following a strange star in the heavens. Only the still unsuspecting Herod is making merry. There is time yet, so let's make the most of it.

Keep your eyes

Keep Your Eye on the Ball: 3rd Sunday of Advent

The Good News is good news indeed, but it is not quite a free pass.  We have a part we need to play beyond simply waiting for our Savior.  We need to keep our eye on the ball.

7th Day of Christmas – Christmas is Just Beginning

Mystic Nativity, by Sandro Botticelli, 1500 Are You Sure It's Just Beginning?  Just beginning? Does it seem like it's just beginning . . . ? Some images never fade. I have a vivid memory of a Christmas years ago, shortly after my return to the Faith. The Christmas tree was literally hurled through the front … Continue reading 7th Day of Christmas – Christmas is Just Beginning