Category Archives: Desert Reflections

Fr Paul points out that today, the day after Pentecost, we celebrate the new feast of  “Mary, Mother of the Church” established by Pope Francis earlier this year.  Although this is a new liturgical feast, the idea of celebrating Mary … Continue reading →

Jesus assures us in today’s gospel that if we are thirsty we have only to drink of the “rivers of living waters” within – and never be thirsty again. If God’s Spirit is within us, Fr Charlie notes, it is … Continue reading →

In today’s gospel, Peter is saturated with Jesus’ love  – a love so deep that it would allow him to face any trial. Jesus will saturate us with his love, as well, if we open our hearts.  His love will allow … Continue reading →

In today’s gospel, Fr Peter points out, Jesus shares with us his intimate relationship with the Father. Our prayer for each other joins us to his prayer to the Father. Our love for each other joins us to Jesus’ love for … Continue reading →

As Payten explains to her uncle Paul (and St Paul explains to the Ephesians in today’s first reading) – things change.   St Paul could deal with change – no matter how challenging – because he experienced Christ living within him.  … Continue reading →

Fr Charlie points out that the source of St Paul’s strength and peace seen in today’s first reading comes from his becoming one with Christ.  We, too, are invited to draw on Christ’s strength and peace.  We, too, are invited … Continue reading →

What is heaven like, Fr Paul wonders?  For Jesus the “kingdom of God” – heaven – is that place of divine partnership where he and the Father are one and we are one with him and with each other.  It … Continue reading →

Fr Charlie notes that sometimes we just have bad days. But, like the trials Paul faced bringing the good news to the Corinthians, and the woman giving birth in today’s readings, bad days can sometimes lead to wonderful things – … Continue reading →

Peter and the circumcised believers with him are astounded in today’s first reading as the gift of the holy spirit pours out on the gentiles – just as it had for them at Pentecost.  Don’t be surprised, Fr Peter points … Continue reading →

Jesus chooses us – his friends – to bring his love to all in today’s gospel.   Sometimes that can be a challenge, as Fr Paul and his fellow passengers discovered when their flight from Chicago to Tucson boarded yesterday.  But, … Continue reading →