Gospel Reflections for Challenging Times

  Friday – St. Agatha Gospel – Mark 6:14-29 Speak The Truth Basilica of Annunciation, Nazareth In one episode of the long-running sci-fi series, Doctor Who gives what amounts to a closing speech to his companions.   The words that ring ‘true’ today are these: “Speak the truth and be kind; above all else, be kind.” John the Baptist does indeed speak the truth, but it certainly does not come across as kind.   He is blunt and to the point, telling people what they need to hear, not what they want to hear.   It is a necessary part of his mission to call people back to repentance.   And that is what he is doing with Herod, telling him in no uncertain terms that marrying his brother’s wife is wrong! Herod seems to be on the other side of the truth, saying only what he thinks people want to hear.   He is interested only in his popularity and his power.   He is a prideful man, only concerned with his image and his reputation.   Sounds familiar! ...

Thursday – 4 th Week in Ordinary Time Gospel – Mark 6:7-13 A New Perspective Family Room, TN This past Sunday was a rather lazy day.   We were still feeling the effects of the latest snowstorm and were pretty much stuck at home, at least until the country roads became relatively ‘drivable’! At one point, instead of sitting in my comfy recliner, facing the tv, I moved over to the love seat and sat facing in the opposite direction.   WOW!   It was as if a whole new world had opened up!   I had never sat there before, much less faced away from the tv (no comments, please).   It was a whole new perspective!   Instead of just one little piece of a room, I could now view almost the entire house – kitchen, front room, doors to the bedrooms and office!   It makes me wonder what the disciples must have felt after receiving their ‘marching orders’ in today’s Gospel.   Let’s be honest; they were a ragtag bunch of fishermen, tax collectors, tradesmen...