So then, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath; for the wrath of man does not produce the righteousness of God. Therefore lay aside all filthiness and overflow of wickedness, and receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls.But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves.
Today Our Lord sets forth the standard of conduct for his followers. Fr. Patrick reflects on this commandment, its implications for Christian thought and action, and one of the greater temptations to threaten Christians along the way.
“Henceforth ye shall be fishers of men” These are the Lord’s words to the Apostles, and to everyone who would follow him when they are called. “Go out to the nations, and shine as a lamp on a hill; drawing men out of the darkness and depths.”
And yet, we often fish the night away and greet morning empty-handed. The net tears and breaks and we are left bruised and battered with nothing to show. Often the boat feels as though it may be dragged down into the waters, leaving us to the cold, unfeeling deep.
How do we see darkness if we are with the Light? How is there turmoil when the Prince of Peace sails with us?
Fr. Patrick talks today about the very first commission, the call of the Lord to his chief soldiers. And how even at the beginning, we see what is to come.
The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not want. Behold the great mystery - the Herdsman who will not suffer even one of his flock to be lost, but will himself go into the brambles and thorns to retrieve them. Yea, though I walk the depths of the valley of death, I will fear no evil, for Thou art with me.
Fr. Patrick discusses spiritual warfare, the power of peace, and trust; and what God himself tells us is the way of Life.
“I am the way, the truth, and the life” saith the Lord of Hosts, “except ye eat my flesh, and drink my blood, yet have no life in you.”
Is it not said that we are as we eat? Is it not true that the matter we consume is the same matter of which we are comprised?
.…is it really so surprising that the God of body and spirit should save us with the same means by which we fell?
On this Blessed Feast of Corpus Christi, Fr. Patrick reflects on the great mystery of salvation, the true presence of the Lord, and the most powerful commandment we have ever received.…
Supernatural Provision, prosperity, wealth, abundance.
All of these have been promised by many in the name of our reading today. Some have even promised direct material gain from it. Riches, a new car, a full tank of gas, a pantry full of incredible delicacies.
Will we really be given anything we ask for? Are there no limits to this promise?
Ought we ask for anything at all?
Today Fr. Patrick discusses the true abundance and provision of God. The real, supernatural blessing of The Lord. And the only true request worthy of the name of Jesus Christ.…