The temptations Jesus experienced were real and appealing. He wasn't play-acting; he entered fully into the human experience and the tensions we know all too well.

Alfred E. Neuman as an example of Christian living? Yes, at least insofar as freedom from worry is concerned. "Seeking first the Kingdom of God" does, however, require some explicit concentration.

Our Christian faith does not call us to be doormats. Every one of the challenges Jesus describes is an opportunity to stress the reciprocity implied in every social situation.

The church was cold, so we moved to the parish hall -- hence my nostalgia for my childhood worship environments. Today's Gospel gives a good opportunity to consider our feeling life, and how to be at peace in the presence of God as feeling people.

Salt and light are familiar substances. As we consider how Jesus is applying these images to ourselves, we may ponder their servant quality.

What are the qualities of the individuals who make up Christian communion? They are people who are hungry, and who have learned what is worth being hungry for.

Today's readings suggest an emphasis on the concept of communion: the goal of all members of the Body of Christ; something achieved with difficulty; something far from complete.

My message changed a little bit because at this Mass I was particularly moved by the setting of Psalm 40, "Here I Am, Lord," by Rory Cooney.

Themes of Christmas are restated upon the inaugural of the ministry of Jesus.

Baptism is an immersion into all human concerns. The baptism of Jesus is the promise to us (if his birth does not already signify this!) that, for the sake of our salvation, he does not shy away from any of the griefs of humankind.