November 29 and 30, 2008
Today's gospel warns about routines and specifically mentions eating and drinking, raising a family, working and preparing meals.  STAY AWAKE because routines can numb you to God breaking into your daily life, calling you to higher ground, "when you least expect."

 

December 5 and 6, 2008
Today's gospel raises many questions: Was the Baptist's family embarrassed by his life style, diet, clothing and message?  Did they avoid or ignore him or advise him to come home and be 'normal?' Advent, a time to change our hearts, raises another question: Who in your family needs for your acceptance?

 

December 13 and 14, 2008
A parent is meant to be a "witness to the light." To be effective, light must be in front of our children, not behind them.  A parent must lead, not follow to "make straight the path of the Lord" for their children.

 

December 20 and 21, 2008
Today's Gospel sounds like a fairy tale, story which is too good to be true. But it is true.  While it is about the birth of Jesus, it is also about the faith of a young teenager, Mary, and Joseph's courage, respect and affection for Mary.  When faith, courage, respect and affection live in a family, "God is with you!"

 

December 27 and 28, 2008
Holy Family Sunday is not just about Jesus, Mary and Joseph. Your family too is called to be a "sign" to the world of a way of life modeled after the Holy Family.  Like Mary and Joseph, you will be "a sign opposed" by others. For being different a "sword will pierce your heart."  If we are doing it right, pain and Christianity go together!