The Preached Word

Jesus pardons us, forgiving our sin, and then calls us to a new purpose--"catching" people.

Jesus is the Word made flesh--the embodiment of Truth. His words at times offend our sensibilities, go against our perceived sense of truth, contradict our assumptions and beliefs. When that happens, will we respond by shutting our ears to Him or by humbling ourselves to receive the Wisdom He brings?

The Law of the Lord reveals our sin and causes us to see our need for a Savior. The Gospel of Jesus Christ proclaims God is for us, the forgiveness of our sins, life and salvation. By faith, we hear both words applying to us, and in the joy of the Lord, we share this Word with our neighbors.

Jesus gives us the best--Himself--in this life and in the life to come. By faith, we trust in His goodness and, remembering His promises, confidently come to Him with our concerns, knowing that He will do what is best for us.

"You are my Son, the Beloved; with you I am well pleased." These words of the Father to Jesus, the Son, confirmed and proclaimed His identity as the Beloved Son. If we ever wonder how things are between us and God, we need only return to our Baptism, where God spoke a word of promise to us; claiming us as His own beloved children through Christ.

Today we ponder anew the awesome mystery of the incarnation--the Word of God made flesh--a child, that we might become children of God!

Merry Christmas! To you is born this day a Savior, Christ the Lord!

Mary bearing Jesus--the very presence of God in human flesh--like the ark of the covenant did in times of old. In Him, God shows mercy to Mary, to Israel, and to all humanity.

Living in Christian Community

The Lord is coming! But who can stand when He appears? Those who know that they are forgiven in Christ Jesus.