Blog of the Archdiocese of Washington
In the Church’s Liturgy of the Hours (in the Office of Readings) we are getting close to the great culmination of the Book of Revelation, when the victorious Christ is united with his bride forevermore. Just prior to this great victory is the casting down of Satan into fiery hell and the sealing over of the great abyss. Central …
Continue reading “What does Jesus Mean by the Fire of Hell?”
In the Office of Readings we have been drawing from the Book of Revelation which, more than just a tour-guide of the last days, is a book of glory describing the Risen Lord Jesus Christ as King and Lord of all History. In the opening lines of the Book is a magnificent description of Jesus …
One thing that is common to every human person is the reality of temptation. At times we may wonder why God permits it. Why does he allow mortal and spiritual dangers to afflict us? Could he not by word of command prevent every temptation that afflicts us? And if he can, why does he not? …
Continue reading “Can Anything Good Come from Temptation? Yes, Here are Five Things”
There is something of a hidden quality to the resurrection appearances that has always puzzled me. St. Peter gives voice to this hidden quality in Acts Chapter 10 when he says to Cornelius, “God raised Jesus from the dead on the third day and granted that he be visible, not to all people, but to …
Continue reading “Why Was the Resurrection Such a Hidden Event?”
As I have commented before, all the resurrection stories depict the Apostles and other disciples on a “journey” of sorts to understand the resurrection. A completely new reality was breaking into their world and challenging their understanding. Far from depicting the disciples as credulous, the texts describe them as shocked, troubled, and even quite dubious. …
Continue reading “Mary Magdalene’s Journey out of Fear to Easter Faith”
One of the most remarkable aspects of the crucifixion of Jesus is the humble reserve he displayed. As God, he had the power to end his suffering and humiliation in an instant. He had already reminded Peter, Do you think I cannot call on my Father, and he will at once put at my disposal …
Continuing to look at some of the text from the Passion according to St. Matthew, we come to the trial of Jesus before Caiaphas the high priest. Having heard false and conflicting testimony from various witnesses, Caiaphas turns to Jesus, and here is where we pick up the text: The high priest rose and addressed …
Continue reading “What Does Jesus Mean When He Says He is Coming on the Clouds?”
The Passion, which we read in today’s liturgy, is too long to comment on in detail. We are only able to take a portion and examine it. It may be of some value to examine the “middle range” of problems and personalities involved. The usual villains such as the Temple leaders, Judas, and the recruited …
Continue reading “See What the End Shall Be – A Homily for Palm Sunday”