Some gifts arrive wrapped in paper and ribbon. Others come quietly, placed in the heart by the One who knows what we truly need. Proverbs tells us that “the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.” Wisdom is not something we manufacture. It is something we receive—slowly, humbly, through relationship.
Continue reading “Packing the Gift of Wisdom”
The Beatitudes are among Jesus’ most tender and challenging words. They reveal a way of living that doesn’t rely on strength, status, or success, but on openness to God. In these blessings, Jesus names the qualities that make room for grace—poverty of spirit, mercy, purity of heart, a longing for righteousness, the courage to make peace. They are not commands to achieve but invitations to receive.
Continue reading “You Are Blessed”
New Year’s Day has a way of softening us. The world feels a little quieter, a little more open, as if we’re standing on a threshold with the chance to begin again. In the Christian tradition, this day is also a celebration of Mary, the mother of Jesus, who is seen not only as his mother, but as a mother given to all of us.
Continue reading “Beginning the Year with a Special Love”
The deepest struggle in marriage is not money, miscommunication, or even differences in personality—it is hardness of heart. When our hearts grow hard, we stop listening, stop forgiving, and let the sorrowful mysteries of life overwhelm us. Instead of turning toward one another, we retreat into silence or resentment.
Continue reading “Breaking Open With Love and Hope”
Tonight, the world flickers with jack-o’-lanterns and laughter. Children dress in costumes, doorbells chime, and the air hums with mischief. But beneath the revelry, a deeper mystery stirs. October 31 is not merely Halloween—it is All Hallows’ Eve, the sacred vigil before the Feast of All Saints.
Continue reading “All Hallows’ Eve: A Night for the Luminous”
Sometimes my heart aches with longing—for the Spirit to fall, not just on me, but on all of us. There are moments when the lyrics of Bright City’s Come Holy Spirit feel less like a song and more like a cry from deep within:
“Come Holy Spirit, fall on us. Burn like a fire, living flame of love.”
Wouldn’t it be nice if we were able focus on one thing to transform our life? Well we can.
Continue reading “Transform Your Life”
“A soul which does not practice the exercise of prayer is very like a paralyzed body which, though possessing feet and hands, makes no use of them.”
— St. Alphonsus Liguori
“If a man is to live, he must be all alive, body, soul, mind, heart, spirit.” — Thomas Merton
Continue reading “Are You Fully Alive?”
Most of us have felt that awkward moment of walking into a room and wondering where to sit. Do I belong here? Will anyone notice me? Should I try to look confident, even if I’m not?
Continue reading “When You’re Not the Guest of Honor”
Smitten With Goodness 