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The Magi’s Wonderful Gift to Me
Following the invitation of Saint Ignatius to enter a scriptural scene using my imagination, I joined the Magi on their journey to Bethlehem. On the eve of the Epiphany, I thought I…
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The most important part of a rule of life
After Christmas, I joined my family for a little time at the beach. Standing on the tide’s edge early one morning, I gazed out to the rising sun, took a deep breath, and…
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Not a spotlight but a revelation
Homily for Christmas Mass During the Day “What came to be through Him was life, and this life was the light of the human race, the light that shines in the darkness and…
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When discernment needs a new lens
Which is clearer, one or two? The images flashed by on the viewfinder at the eye doctor’s office, accompanied by the question, “Which is clearer?” Sometimes I’d say “one”, sometimes “two”. One occasion,…
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Advent faith found on a top bunk
Last Wednesday, I volunteered at a rescue mission for the homeless. I discovered a profound dimension to my Advent faith. It came after an encounter with Carolyn. She is 61 years old, weighs…
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Are you the one or should I look for another?
Homily for the 3rd Sunday of Advent When John the Baptist heard in prison of the works of the Christ, he sent his disciples to Jesus with this question, “Are you the one…
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When new life sprouts from old stumps
On that day, a shoot shall sprout from the stump of Jesse, and from his roots a bud shall blossom. (Is 11:1) I was hiking around the Lake Shore Trail at Lake Norman…
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A simple way to deepen connection
The highlight of my Thanksgiving week was a long hike around North Mountain in Phoenix. My son and I paired up, left our spouses behind, and started walking and talking. It was one…
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The Holy Man on the Bluff
Brené Brown gives this advice about facing difficult situations: Don’t shrink. Don’t puff up. Stand your holy ground. Here’s a story that illustrates all three, and might be helpful if you sense some…
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A Spirit-led entry into the heart of the other
Something weird happened to me Sunday morning. I was preaching at the 8:00 AM in Spanish. Right in the middle of the homily the Holy Spirit shook me awake. The gospel I used…
