Daily Commentaries

Hand-Me-Downs As I reflect on my own journey, I recall the pride and connection I felt wearing an old shirt my brother had outgrown. These traditions, passed down through generations, shape our identity and foster a sense of belonging without us even realizing it. For example, for the last 50 years, I have held the […]

https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/020926.cfm Presence – How We Protect Ourselves  We dress for different occasions based on activity, like jeans for construction, a gown for surgery, or jerseys at a hockey game. Gardening clothes differ from sleepwear, and our attire reveals who we are at that moment.  When Jesus and his disciples landed, people immediately recognized Him. They

https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/020726.cfm We All Need A Deserted Place There are so many pressures in today’s world. Getting stuck in traffic on the way to and from work can cause stress. Please consider the wasted energy we carry when we bring that stress into our work and family life. It is hard to focus our minds and

https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/020626.cfm What’s It Worth? Imagine I show you a dollar bill in one hand and a penny in the other— which would you choose if you could pick just one? Think beyond money—what if you didn’t know how much more the dollar was worth compared to the penny? What truly holds value in your life?

https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/020526.cfm Ignite the Fire in Each Other During the difficult initial months of the pandemic, our parish staff experienced a deep sense of community blessed by the Lord Jesus. We formed a family, united through love and mutual care, which I hope reminds you of how much your presence and efforts matter to our shared

https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/020426.cfm Faith’s Struggles. It’s important to remember that we’re not alone in our struggles. Many who are serious about their relationship with God occasionally seek out a spiritual director. A common challenge we all face is doubt about our faith in God. We may not like these doubts, but they are a natural part of

https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/020326.cfm Never Give UP.  The more challenging life gets, the better we get, or do we? I had two operations in my second and fourth years of seminary, both in January, each with a three-month recovery. I attended no classes, read no books, wrote no essays, and took no notes. Pain and study don’t mix

https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/020226.cfm Faith’s Struggles Tom Brady, an NFL quarterback and now analyst, took his time to make an important decision. The big question before he retired was whether he would play another year in the NFL for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Anyone who follows the Bucs knows the impact Brady has on the game. He has

https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/020126.cfm The Strength of Meekness. Years ago, I rode a horse at a hacienda in Venezuela. I will never forget a raging bull charging at us out of nowhere. My horse went into a gallop, and I held on for dear life. When it was safe, the horse slowed to a trot, and I took

https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/013126.cfm Do Not Be Afraid To Go Deep. I Will Raise You Up.  One early spring morning, I was fishing in Long Lake in Central Illinois with an old friend of my Dad’s, Bud Sepich. We were fishing for bluegill and bass from a boat in 15 feet of water. It was still cold, and