Tag: Moral Life
Some Advice from Mother Church, as Pictured in the Book of Ruth
Given our brief sampling of the Book of Ruth in daily Mass, perhaps a reflection is in order. The detailed background to the text is too lengthy to go into here, but a few points will help. The story features three main characters: Boaz, Ruth, and Naomi. Boaz is clearly a picture (or “type”) of […]
Why and How Does Satan Roam the Earth?
One of the more puzzling aspects of demonology is the freedom that Satan and demons appear to have in roaming the earth, causing trouble. If the condemned are consigned to Hell for all eternity, why is Satan allowed to wander about outside of Hell? Isn’t he supposed to be suffering in Hell along with his […]
The Biblical Roots of the Assumption of Mary
While the actual event of the Assumption of Mary into Heaven is not recorded in the Scriptures, there is a biblical basis for the teaching that, considered as a whole, confirms Catholic teaching as both fitting and in keeping with biblical principles. Let’s ponder this feast in stages: The Assumption Explained – To be “assumed” […]
Biblical Teaching on the Use of Colorful and Harsh Language
In the Sermon on the Mount, the Lord warns of using uncivil and/or hateful words such as “Raqa” and “fool.” And yet the same Lord Jesus often used very strong language toward some of His opponents, sometimes calling them names such as vipers and hypocrites. We live in a world that often insists on the […]
Fortitude, Patience, and Meekness: Three Virtues We Often Separate, but That Belong Together
There is an important interplay and balance between the virtues that many modern minds set in opposition to one another. False dichotomies often prevail when the subtlety of virtues are lost or their meanings are grasped in simplistic or inaccurate ways. Consider three virtues that are related and which enable and moderate one other: fortitude, […]
It Happened, but It Wasn’t Holy or Helpful – Biblical Teaching Against Polygamy
Given cultural trends and recent court decisions to redefine marriage, the move to accept and legalize polygamy and polyandry has intensified. For example, an essay at Politico declares, “It’s time to legalize polygamy.” Another article at Slate Magazine is entitled “Legalize polygamy.” Some are already coining the term “trouple” or “throuple” to describe “marriages” of […]
Four Common Tactics of the Devil
In recent years there has been a resurgence of interest in demonic possession. Movies and books, along with human fears and fascinations, are largely the cause. Although actual demonic possession is somewhat rare, it does occur. Each diocese ought to have an appointed exorcist to assess possession. This exorcist, with the permission of the bishop, […]
The Sins That Come From Being a Busybody – A Meditation on a Teaching of St. Gregory
Faults in others I can see, but praise the Lord there’re none in me! The term “busybody” usually refers to one who is intent on the matters of others but looks little to his own issues. Busybodies also tend to focus especially on the faults, foibles, and troubles of other folks. Seldom are they chattering away about […]
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