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Readings: Epiphany of the Lord  As the Christmas season comes to a close, we celebrate today the Feast of the Epiphany of the Lord, which reminds us of the great homage due to our Savior, Jesus Christ.   As we hear in today’s Gospel reading, the magi have heard of Jesus’ birth and are eagerly searching for Him. They ask the people in Jerusalem: “Where is the newborn king of the Jews? We saw his star at its rising and have come to do him homage.” As we have been reflecting on for the past several weeks, Jesus’ coming as a baby, and yet king, reveals His incredible humility. The phrase “newborn king” would have shocked anyone. In fact, as we read in the Gospel, king Herod and “all Jerusalem with him” were greatly troubled upon hearing these words from the magi.  Jesus was not the Messiah that many of the Jews expected. A strong warrior ready for battle was often the image of the Messiah that people had in their heads. Jesus’ coming as a small helpless baby had many people baffled. And yet, His littleness and humility did not detract from His incredible majesty as King. The magi came […]

Readings: Christmas Weekday | USCCB   I am deeply moved by the comforting and transformative power of the Incarnation. The deep recognition that Jesus came to become one of us, and in becoming one like us – choosing to become poor, despised and vulnerable—reminded us of our own dignity as children of God, a beacon of hope, but also a call to mirror God’s love and compassion amidst the injustice we find it our world.  As we wrap up the Christmas season, this realization of what the incarnation demands from us, makes me embrace my faith with a deep sense of belonging and understanding.  To know Jesus as the Son of God is to see the world through a lens of divine love and compassion, extending beyond personal salvation to encompass a commitment to justice and a compassionate response to those in need. This aspect of faith is not just a moral obligation but a profound expression of Christ’s teachings and His love for all humanity. It’s a reminder that we are never alone, whether in our struggles or joys. In moments of doubt or hardship, this belief offers a reassuring presence, a gentle whisper that guides and comforts.  Living out […]

Readings: Memorial of Saint John Neumann, Bishop | USCCB  How do we get to know someone and love them? In the first reading today, we see the message of love and care for our brothers and sisters. Yet, this can be difficult because we may not know them. In the second reading, when Nathanael questions Philip “Can anything good come from Nazareth?” I was taken aback. It reminded me of my bias, or judgement of others based on where they are from. It also reminded me of times where I was judged due to my background. How can we show love for one another without knowing each other? However, Jesus saw Nathanael under that, and He knew him.  This season of Advent, I am reminded that Jesus knows us and loves us. Just like when Jesus told Nathanael that He saw him and knew him. It may take us time to love because we need to know and hear that reciprocal recognition from our brothers and sisters. Do we also expect this from God? Do we expect a clear message from Him to know that He loves us? Or are those sights and sounds already here, around us in our […]

Readings: Memorial of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton, Religious | USCCB  Today, I had the opportunity to reflect on the life and legacy of a remarkable woman, Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton.  Like many of us, Elizabeth faced plenty of hardships, yet those challenges did not define her, and it is a good reminder for us that our hardships do not define us.  Instead, these experiences can be catalysts for growth & resiliency and give us a unique opportunity to support and uplift others going through similar hardships.   As I was reminded of the life of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton, I was struck by her dedication to education. Founding the Sisters of Charity and establishing the first Catholic school in the United States, she recognized the transformative power of education in shaping individuals and communities. This commitment to learning and service continues to resonate and encourages me to consider how I can contribute to the well-being of others.   It reminds me to appreciate this unique season of life that I find myself in.  To express my gratitude for being at the University of St Thomas at this moment and time.  A place where I have been challenged, where I have grown, where […]