Third Sunday of the Year

Robert Ellsberg, in A Living Gospel, describes how the gospel is written in the lives of people different people living extraordinary lives. Ellsberg focuses on people like Dorothy Day, Charles de Foucauld, Henri Nouwen, Thomas Merton, Flannery O'Connor, and Oscar Romero who knew little of their legacy with contributions beyond their lives. However, as Annie Lamott points out, they ‘showed up’. In many cases, they participated in what Fr Gregory Boyles says, the strategy of Jesus was not centred in taking the right stand on issues, but rather in standing in the right place – with the outcasts and those relegated to the margins.

Second Sunday of the Year

Thomas Merton said, ‘If you want to identify me, ask me not where I live, or what I like to eat, or how I comb my hair, but ask me what I am living for.’ This question can be terrifying as it forces us to articulate what we truly believe and burn for.  We are invited today by the gospel to join with people such as Merton and ask ourselves what and for whom we live? What do we long for?

Manifestation of Jesus to the Peoples of all Nations

During Advent, receptivity and waiting were its themes. Epiphany highlights the themes of our response to God’s presence in our lives. We are beckoned to move beyond all we think we know and allowing something new stir within us as we look for something new on the horizon. We strike out for something deeper. We do not just talk about our desire but walk intentionally toward it and making concrete choices along the way.