Bob's Beanfield

There are many Scripture readings that remind us that God's wisdom is far beyond ours. We have difficulty understanding earthly things, how can we understand God? Yet, He asks us also to trust in Him, and give everything over to Him. Easier said than done!

Note that Scripture readings are from the Lectionary for Mass for Use in the Dioceses of the United States of America, second typical edition, Copyright Confraternity of Christian Doctrine, Inc., used with permission. Commentary copyright Peter Kreeft, published by Word on Fire, used with permission.

It seems to me that the theme of all the readings for today is Humility. And I am humble enough to admit that my words and thoughts are not what this podcast is about, so let's dive right in!

Note that Scripture readings are from the Lectionary for Mass for Use in the Dioceses of the United States of America, second typical edition, Copyright Confraternity of Christian Doctrine, Inc., used with permission. Commentary copyright Peter Kreeft, published by Word on Fire, used with permission.

Many words in the English language carry different and sometimes contradicting meanings, depending on the context. One of those words is Discipline. It can have a negative connotation, like when parents have to discipline their children, or positive connotations when we discipline ourselves to a task such as a sport. And I suspect that the word Disciple has the same roots as the word discipline. The readings today talk more about this.

Note that Scripture readings are from the Lectionary for Mass for Use in the Dioceses of the United States of America, second typical edition, Copyright Confraternity of Christian Doctrine, Inc., used with permission. Commentary copyright Peter Kreeft, published by Word on Fire, used with permission.

You'll want to listen carefully to today's readings if you've ever used the expression that you were "Stuck in the mud". I am pretty sure most if not all of us have felt stuck in the mud at one time or another in our lives. Sometimes we get there because of other people or circumstances, but we also find ourselves there from our own choices and decisions. What happens then? Does Jesus give us peace? What does He mean when He says He came not to establish peace but division? Is He throwing us in to the mud? Or getting us out?

Note that Scripture readings are from the Lectionary for Mass for Use in the Dioceses of the United States of America, second typical edition, Copyright Confraternity of Christian Doctrine, Inc., used with permission. Commentary copyright Peter Kreeft, published by Word on Fire, used with permission.

There is a contrast between faith and fear that comes to light in today's readings and commentary. Let us proceed with confidence and faith as we hear the readings and commentary!

Note that Scripture readings are from the Lectionary for Mass for Use in the Dioceses of the United States of America, second typical edition, Copyright Confraternity of Christian Doctrine, Inc., used with permission. Commentary copyright Peter Kreeft, published by Word on Fire, used with permission.

Today is all about detachment from the things of this world, passing things, and attachment to God. I think we all know these truths in our heads, but how do we bridge that longest of gaps, the distance between our heads and our hearts? Pray about that today as you hear the readings and commentary!

Note that Scripture readings are from the Lectionary for Mass for Use in the Dioceses of the United States of America, second typical edition, Copyright Confraternity of Christian Doctrine, Inc., used with permission. Commentary copyright Peter Kreeft, published by Word on Fire, used with permission.

There is a lot to think about in today's readings. We have the story of Abraham trying to save Sodom if only there are 10 righteous people there; we have Paul telling us about Baptism, and we have Jesus teaching us to pray. How should we respond to these stories? Let the Holy Spirit guide your heart as we listen to the Scripture and Commentary.

Note that Scripture readings are from the Lectionary for Mass for Use in the Dioceses of the United States of America, second typical edition, Copyright Confraternity of Christian Doctrine, Inc., used with permission. Commentary copyright Peter Kreeft, published by Word on Fire, used with permission.

When we encounter God, what is our response? Do we listen carefully? Do we try to do something to serve Him? Or both? We hear the reactions of Abraham and Mary and Martha today. How are they different? How are they similar?

Note that Scripture readings are from the Lectionary for Mass for Use in the Dioceses of the United States of America, second typical edition, Copyright Confraternity of Christian Doctrine, Inc., used with permission. Commentary copyright Peter Kreeft, published by Word on Fire, used with permission.

Who is Jesus Christ? Who is God? And who is my neighbor? All questions that Scripture talks about in today's readings. You might try answering them first for yourself, then hear what the readings and commentary tell us.

Note that Scripture readings are from the Lectionary for Mass for Use in the Dioceses of the United States of America, second typical edition, Copyright Confraternity of Christian Doctrine, Inc., used with permission. Commentary copyright Peter Kreeft, published by Word on Fire, used with permission.

What will heaven be like? As it says in Scripture, Eye has not seen and ear has not heard. That doesn't keep us from imagining it, and we hear part of Isaiah's vision of it in our first reading. In the Gospel, Jesus sends his disciples out to cast out demons. How do we respond to temptation today? What can we learn from today's readings and commentary?

Note that Scripture readings are from the Lectionary for Mass for Use in the Dioceses of the United States of America, second typical edition, Copyright Confraternity of Christian Doctrine, Inc., used with permission. Commentary copyright Peter Kreeft, published by Word on Fire, used with permission.