Second Timothy is traditionally thought of as St. Paul’s last epistle since it refers to his death in 67AD.  In the Acts of the Apostles Timothy is one of the companions of Paul who remained as a local bishop after Paul was arrested and brought to Rome. Some scholars speculate that Paul might not have… Read More »

Jesus begins his ministry by preaching that the kingdom is at hand so you had better repent. This was not the first time the crowds had heard that message. John the Baptist had preached in a similar manner and his arrest had prompted Jesus to take up the mantle. Where he differs from John is… Read More »

As St. Mark tells the story of Jesus he provoked strong reactions. He inspired disciples to leave everything and follow him. He drew crowds to him because he “taught with authority.” He developed a reputation as a healer which attracted people from far and wide. On the other hand, he created hostility on the part… Read More »

He appointed Twelve, whom he also named Apostles, that they might be with him and he might send them forth to preach. According to our creeds,we are an apostolic church, that is a church founded on the apostles.  But if you think about it we know very little about the mission of the twleve apostles.… Read More »

Saul discussed his intention of killing David with his son Jonathan and with all his servants. But Saul’s son Jonathan, was very fond of David. The friendship of David and Jonathan has inspired reflections over the years about the value and importance of friendship in the spiritual life. I have on my desk this saying of… Read More »

When the young David confronted Goliath he said: “I come against you in the name of the LORD of hosts… Today the LORD shall deliver you into my hand.” One of the constant human delusions is to imagine that the greater force is what leads to peace and security. The lessons of history is that even… Read More »

One of the commandments of Jesus: “Judge not.” The Old Testament lesson for today tells us why: “Not as man sees does God see, because he sees the appearance but the LORD looks into the heart.” Of course we make judgments all the time. Is this good for me? Should I change jobs? The commandment… Read More »

You have to feel sorry for Saul. He didn’t look to become king and he was doing the best he knew how. The problem was that he gave what he felt comfortable giving instead of giving what God wanted from him. Saul answered Samuel:  “I did indeed obey the LORD and fulfill the mission on… Read More »

We’re so used to hearing it and saying it (we do so every Mass) the shock value of John the Baptist’s statement has been lost. “Behold the lamb of God…” If you think about it calling somebody a “lamb” might not be taken as a compliment. Calling one the Lion of God, now that would… Read More »

The people wanted a king? God would send them a king from central casting. Saul was everything you would imagine a king should look like, tall, dark and handsome. There was no other child of Israel more handsome than Saul; he stood head and shoulders above the people. He was a natural for the role.… Read More »