St. John the Baptist introduces Jesus to the wider world darkened by sin by proclaiming, “Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world.” Look there, John says, there is our Savior; look at God in a human body; come see where our confidence and hope lies. And with these words, … Continue reading Beholding the Lamb
Author: Raphael Peters
The Obstacles to the Truth
The feast of the Epiphany is a time to recall the visit of the astrologers from the East, Gentiles no less, bearing gifts and praising the Jewish infant who would prove to be the long-awaited Messiah. The story of the visit of the three wise men depicted in the gospel of Matthew is filled with … Continue reading The Obstacles to the Truth
Our Spiritual Mother, Mary Most Holy
As the last page of the calendar flips from 2022 to 2023, and not yet knowing what the new year will bring, it is fitting we entrust our lives to our spiritual Mother, the Blessed Virgin Mary. Every time we pray the “Hail Mary” we invoke her care, “pray for us now, and at the … Continue reading Our Spiritual Mother, Mary Most Holy
The Savior Has Been Born
On the plains of Bethlehem, the angels brought to the shepherds and to us a wonderful message of joy. “Do not be afraid; for behold, I proclaim to you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For today in the city of David a savior has been born for you who is … Continue reading The Savior Has Been Born
The Second Annunciation
St. Joseph betrothed to the Blessed Mother Mary and the foster father of Jesus is the focus on the last Sunday of Advent. We are told the birth of Jesus came about in a way which seemed to be scandalous. Before they lived to together as husband and wife, Mary was already pregnant.The moral expectation … Continue reading The Second Annunciation
Should We Look for Another?
Jesus said, “Among those born of women there has been none greater than John the Baptist.” The greatest man born of a woman, even questioned whether his cousin, was the long-awaited Messiah. While imprisoned by Herod, John the Baptist hearing the works of Christ sent his disciples to ask Jesus one question: “Are you the … Continue reading Should We Look for Another?
Our True Longing Hidden
All around signs of Christmas are sprouting up. Trees are being decorated and outdoor lighting is illuminating neighborhoods as the days grow shorter. Stores and the internet remind people that Christmas is coming soon. Christmas parties are already being celebrated a full month early and will continue as the countdown to December 25th draws near.The … Continue reading Our True Longing Hidden
Advent and the Second Coming
The annual liturgical season of Advent is upon us as we prepare for the Feast of Christmas. It is a bit odd for some, that the readings and the mood of the first Sunday are directed to the second coming of Jesus. A time when he will come in all his glory and judge the … Continue reading Advent and the Second Coming
Thanksgiving Every Day
Master of the Harvest There is a legend that goes back many years, it is the story of the Master of the Harvest. In early spring, the Master of the Harvest walked by the side of his wheat fields with a frown on his weathered face. You see, there had not been any rain for … Continue reading Thanksgiving Every Day
Christ the King of the Universe
On the last Sunday of the liturgical year, the Church focuses on Jesus as the King of the Universe. The feast asserts that Christ, through his obedience to the Father’s will is a king who rules over an eternal and universal kingdom. A kingdom of truth and life; a kingdom of holiness and grace; a … Continue reading Christ the King of the Universe