The Beatitudes are the introduction to the Sermon on the Mount. Jesus continues the instruction with, what scholars call, the six antitheses. The pattern is: “you have heard it said… but I say to you.” It is important to understand that Jesus is not replacing the “old law” with a new. “Do not think that… Read More »

Elijah is one of the great characters of the Bible. In his confrontation with the prophets of Baal he proposes that his God, the God of Israel, is the God who answers with fire. When this proves true the people profess faith. But ultimately this profession doesn’t last — Elijah continues to chide the people… Read More »

When I was a young priest there was a song popular in church with the refrain: “You are the light of the world. Let you light shine before all. So they may see the good that you do and give glory to God.” Someone in the parish objected to the song. He wanted to substitute… Read More »