Taking the Next Step
God has a plan for our lives, but we do not see that plan all at once. This is why we must be willing to take the next step as God gives us the light to see it.
Knowing Our Name
Our value, if it is to become real, must be claimed. If our dignity is to have power, we must hear our true name.
Behold the Lamb of God
As Lamb of God, Jesus’ sacrifice is effective not because it is bloody but because it is motivated by love. We are called to follow Jesus’ example.
Comfort of Angels (Isaiah 40)
Angels are messengers of God’s presence. They are not intended to be an object of fascination in themselves but a reflection back to the love of the One who sends them.
Teenage Strains in the Gospels
One of the most helpful ways to understand the negative presentation of the Pharisees in the gospels is to see the description as an adolescent reaction of the early church, striking out against its parent, Judaism.
The Grace of Noah’s Flood (Genesis 6:5 to 9:17)
On its surface the story of Noah’s flood is one of destruction. Yet it reveals a God who is willing to change in order to keep the relationship with humanity alive.
Tattooed for Jesus (Gal 6:17)
Tattoos were common in the ancient world to express a religious conviction. A passage from The Letter to the Galatians suggests that the Apostle Paul may have been tattooed for Christ.
I will praise you, Lord
Psalm 30 has a fascinating history. Although it began as a personal prayer of thanksgiving, it was adapted for the dedication of the temple. It firmly situates thanksgiving as the basis of all prayer.
Is Jesus in the Psalms?
Christians regularly recognize in the Jewish psalms references to Jesus’ suffering and resurrection. The warrant for such a practice can be established through reflection on the common practice of reading old texts in new contexts.
Peace with Jesus’ “Enemies”
The description of the Jewish leadership in the gospels is historically skewed. Jesus’ relationship with the Pharisees was not as negative as the Gospel of Matthew presents. Peace must, therefore, be made with these “enemies” of Jesus.
The Gospel of John Set Free
This book is meant to serve preachers, catechists, and students of the Bible who wish to understand the difficult passages of John’s gospel in a way which is free from inaccuracy and prejudice. It will assist those who use John’s texts to proclaim them in conformity to Church teaching and God’s love for the Jewish people.
The Apostle to the Apostles
It is impossible to celebrate Easter without Mary Magdalene. She is present in most Easter stories. She is mention more frequently in the New Testament than any other woman with the exception of Jesus’ mother.