Today's first reading presents us with the "Reader's Digest" version of a rather lengthy story from the Book of Genesis. I am always curious when I notice that the citation at the beginning of the reading indicates that verses have been ignored. Consequently, I looked up the entire story. I would encourage you to do the same.
The length of the story of how Abraham's story finds a wife for...
My Lord and My God! (John 20:28b)
St. Thomas will never live down the nickname that he has been given because of his response to the news that Jesus had risen. He will forever be known as "Doubting Thomas." I would ask, however, how you would have responded to the news that Jesus had been seen after his death by crucifixion? Perhaps you would not have expressed your doubts in words,...
Anyone who has ever been afraid knows that fear is a powerful motivator. At the same time, we have to admit that when Jesus confronts the fears of those to whom and with whom he ministers, he always seems to have a reaction that at least borders on disappointment. "Fear is useless," Jesus is heard to say to the couple whose daughter has died. "Why are you so afraid," he questions his...
Abraham and God enter into a dialogue today that can seem confusing and strange. Part of our confusion arises from the cultural differences that existed at the time of Abraham.
While we citizens of the Western world cherish our individuality, the people of the Eastern world do not look at themselves as individuals so much as members of a collective. That collective takes many forms:...