Embracing Blessings: Celebrating Advent with Intent

Reflecting on Blessings During Advent

As we enter the Advent season, it's a time to reflect on blessings. This period goes beyond decorations and gifts; it's about the heart. Let's explore how we can connect blessings to the spirit of Advent.

1. The Significance of Christ's Birth as a Blessing

At the core of our Advent reflections lies the birth of Jesus Christ. This transformative event reminds us of a profound truth:

"By his birth, God blesses the world."

The arrival of Christ brings hope, joy, and grace — the ultimate blessing for humanity. Advent invites us to see life through the lens of gratitude and grace, inspired by His birth.

2. Ideas for Spreading Blessings During Advent

How can we embody and share the spirit of blessings this season? Here are some practical ideas:

• Daily Acts of Kindness: A smile, a compliment, or a helping hand — these small gestures make a big difference.

• Encouragement Notes: Leave uplifting messages for family, friends, or even strangers.

• Community Service: Volunteer to help those in need. Not only will you uplift others, but you’ll also experience the joy of giving.

These actions remind us of the blessing we received through Christ’s birth by connecting with others in meaningful ways.

3. Journaling or Reflecting on Personal Blessings

Have you ever tried keeping a blessings journal? Taking time each day to jot down things you are grateful for can foster a positive mindset. Reflecting on blessings helps us appreciate small moments, even amid the year-end hustle.

4. Embrace Daily Blessings Throughout Advent

During Advent, we can focus on turning challenges into opportunities to bless our surroundings. For example:

• When faced with frustration, pause and respond with a silent prayer or a kind thought instead of negativity.

• Be mindful of your words — they have the power to uplift or tear down.

This shift in perspective can transform how we approach daily life during this sacred season.

Closing Thoughts: Be a Blessing to Others

Advent is a time to reflect on the birth of Christ and His gift to the world. As we embrace this season, let’s intentionally bless others through our actions, words, and attitudes. The journey to transform our communities and relationships begins with us.

TL;DR:

This Advent, choose to bless your surroundings and relationships with kindness, gratitude, and grace. Reflect on Christ's birth and use daily actions to bring hope to others during this special season.

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The Essence of Advent: A Time to Slow Down

The Essence of Advent: A Time to Slow Down

Advent is more than just a countdown to Christmas; it’s a sacred opportunity to pause, reflect, and cultivate inner peace. Much like steeping a teabag in hot water, the longer we spend in silence with God, the richer our spiritual experience becomes. Instead of rushing through this season, consider savoring each moment.

Advent offers us a unique chance for quiet reflection amidst our busy lives, where we often overlook the importance of stillness. How often do we truly take a moment to listen? I recall a time when my mind was consumed with daily tasks, making it difficult to find tranquility. However, during Advent, I made a conscious effort to slow down and spend time in silence with God.

Here are some simple ways to embrace this meaningful time:

• Set Aside Time for Quiet: Dedicate specific moments each day to be still and listen for God’s presence.

• Practice Daily Examen: Inspired by St. Ignatius, take time at the end of each day to reflect on your experiences. Ask yourself what brought you joy, where you felt God’s presence, and how you can grow from your challenges.

As I sat in stillness, I realized that

"To see God, we must first learn to stop and look."

This simple realization changed my perspective.

Takeaway: Make intentional time for silence during Advent to deepen your connection with God and discover peace in His presence. Embrace the daily examen as a tool for reflection, allowing it to guide your spiritual journey throughout this holy season. Check out the Hallow app which has “The Examen” guides on it.

How the Little Ones Helped Me See the True Joy of Advent

Thanksgiving is a time to catch up with family. I spent the day talking with relatives, sharing stories, and enjoying good food. Then my brother’s kids showed up, and everything changed.

They came in upset and cranky. I just wanted to enjoy my guacamole in peace, but they made that impossible. At first, I avoided the chaos. When they started fighting over a basketball, I walked away. When they asked me to take them to the backyard, I didn’t want to go. But after a while, I grabbed a flashlight and joined their little adventure.

Something happened out there. As they laughed and ran around, their joy reminded me of something I’d forgotten—the beauty of being a child. Their excitement made me think about why Jesus came into the world as a baby. He came in the quiet, not with power or noise, to bring us joy, hope, and love.

That’s what Advent is about—getting ready for Jesus and remembering what really matters. But the world moves so fast, rushing us to Christmas Day, that we forget to slow down and enjoy this season.

This Advent, let’s take time to pause. Pray, sit quietly, or read the story of Jesus’ birth. Turn off the noise and let God remind you of His love.

The kids gave me a gift this year—they reminded me of the joy of this season. Jesus came to bring us that joy. Don’t let the busyness of life steal it from you. Slow down, and let Him into your heart.

Christ is coming. Let’s get ready.

Letting Go of the Little Bear: Opening the Door to God’s Bigger Plan

There’s a picture I saw once that captures our relationship with God so well. It’s of a little girl holding a small teddy bear tightly behind her back. She’s saying, “This is mine,” because she treasures that little bear more than anything. But just in front of her stands Jesus, holding a much larger teddy bear, one she can’t see, waiting patiently. He’s saying, “Can you give me your bear? I have something even better for you.” Yet, the little girl clings to what she knows, not realizing what she’s missing.

This image speaks to something many of us experience. We often hold on so tightly to what we have—our version of happiness, our plans, our comforts. We’re like that little girl, satisfied with our small bears, while God stands ready with something greater, something beyond what we could imagine. But sometimes, the reason we can’t experience that “something greater” is simple: we have to open our hearts and trust His way over ours.

In today’s world, life can feel messy, especially when things don’t go as we plan. Maybe school is tough, friendships are complicated, or family life is challenging. But these difficulties don’t mean God isn’t working; they may mean He’s waiting for us to let Him in—to open that door to His plan, even if it feels hard or uncomfortable.

When I was younger, I struggled with this myself. I would pray and ask God why things couldn’t just be easier or go according to my plan. But, over time, God gently reminded me, “Are you willing to be comfortable being uncomfortable?” Letting go of my “bear” was uncomfortable, but it opened me to a joy and purpose I couldn’t have imagined on my own.

So here’s my simple takeaway: Just like that little girl in the picture, we might not always see what God has for us. But if we can trust Him enough to let go and open the door, we’ll find something bigger and better than we could ever hold onto ourselves. Today, take a moment to let go of that “small bear” and let God in. You might just find the bigger blessing He’s been holding for you all along.

Unyielding Joy: Mother Teresa’s Secret to Happiness Amid Hardship

Have you ever wondered why some people seem to have a deep sense of joy, no matter their circumstances? That was the question that came to mind when I first learned about Mother Teresa in high school. I remember seeing her face in a textbook—she had this radiant smile, even though she was surrounded by some of the most heartbreaking situations. I couldn’t understand it. How could someone be so joyful in the midst of so much suffering?

As I grew older and learned more about her life, I realized that Mother Teresa’s joy didn’t come from worldly success or comfort. It came from her deep, unwavering faith and her complete commitment to serving others. She found joy by giving her life away for others, especially the poorest and most forgotten.

One story that really stood out to me was when she insisted on rescuing children from a bombed-out orphanage in Beirut. Despite the danger, she believed God would provide a way—and He did. There was a ceasefire the very next day, and she was able to save those children. Her trust in God and her love for others made her fearless.

But here’s the thing: Mother Teresa also struggled. For 40 years, she felt spiritually dry, not sensing God’s presence, even as she continued to serve. Yet, she never gave up. Her happiness wasn’t dependent on feelings; it was rooted in a deep sense of purpose and love for God.

In today’s world, we often chase happiness through things like success, recognition, or comfort. But as I reflect on the gospel and the lives of saints like Mother Teresa, I see that true joy comes from serving others and following Christ’s example. It’s not about being first or getting what we want. It’s about giving ourselves away in love.

So, if you’re struggling to find joy or feeling like life isn’t going the way you planned, take a moment to think about Mother Teresa. What if happiness isn’t about what we can get, but about how much we can give? What if we already have everything we need to experience true joy, right here and now?

Let’s challenge ourselves to look at life through this lens and remember that true joy comes from loving God and serving others.

God Doesn’t Just Love You—He Likes You Too

As a priest I spend a lot of time telling people that - Jesus loves you. I find myself drawn to this one simple truth: Yet sometimes, even though I say this over and over, I wonder if it’s really sinking in - even for me.

I think we all know—at least in our heads—that God loves us. But how often do we realize that He not only loves us, but He likes us? And there’s a difference.

I was listening to a speaker, and she paused after saying, “God loves you.” Then she said, “He also likes you.” I was driving, and I thought to myself - What? He likes me?

It’s like Thanksgiving dinner. Picture it—you love your family. You’d give them anything if they needed it. But be honest: there are some people at that table you can’t stand. You love them, yes, but you don’t necessarily like them.

That’s how I used to think about God’s love. Of course He loves me—He has to. He’s God, right? But does He like me? Does He enjoy spending time with me?

In the Song of Songs, there’s this beautiful love story between a king and a woman, and the way the king pursues her mirrors how God pursues us. He doesn’t just have to love us—He wants to. He delights in us. He calls out to us, not out of obligation, but out of a deep love that says, “I enjoy being with you.”

And here’s the thing: we struggle to believe that. We know the sacraments, the teachings, the commandments—but in our hearts, we wonder, “Does He really love me? Does He like me?” Friends, that’s what Jesus is trying to break through in our hearts. God doesn’t just tolerate you; He’s not just putting up with you because He has to. He delights in you. He loves you, and He likes you.

So next time you look at the cross, remember this: God doesn’t just love you from a distance. He loves you, He delights in you, and He really, really likes you. Let that sink into your heart.

Finding Daily Strength: How 10 Minutes of Scripture Can Transform Your Day

I’ll be honest—there’s a joke out there that “Catholics don’t know the Bible.” For years, I didn’t really read it. I’d hear it at Mass and think, “That’s enough, right?” But one day, a wise spiritual director challenged me. He said, “You love Jesus and Mary, right? Then read His Word.” He showed me this method called Lectio Divina.

It’s simple but powerful. You read a Scripture passage three times or as many times as you want: first you read the passage, then you read it again and this time you ask God to highlight a word or phrase. Then you read it again and ask God what He wants to say to you through that word or phrase. It’s like having a conversation with God where you let Him speak to your heart through scripture.

I tried it for a few months, and it was amazing. I felt nourished and connected to God in a new way. But then, life got busy, and I stopped. I went back to my usual prayers like the Rosary.

Fast forward to a recent youth ministry meeting, and one of the leaders led the teens in Lectio Divina. I joined in, and it felt like God was speaking to me again, saying, “This is what you need.” Since then, I’ve been doing it every day, and it’s made a huge difference.

Here’s the thing: Lectio Divina is not about studying Scripture like it’s a textbook. It’s about letting God’s Word nourish you and give you the strength to get through your day. It’s about listening to what God wants to say to you personally.

So, if you’ve never tried it, I encourage you to give it a shot. It’s a simple way to let God’s Word become part of your day. You might be surprised by the peace and strength it brings.

More Than Redemption: How Jesus Restores Our True Humanity

One of the most profound lessons I’ve ever learned came from a teacher who taught about the Trinity in a way that stuck with me. She once said something that completely surprised me: “Jesus didn’t just come to save us from our sins.” I remember all of us being shocked. Isn’t that why He came? But she went on, “He came to teach us how to be fully human, because humanity forgot how.”

That statement hit me hard. Humanity forgot how to love God, how to trust, how to surrender, how to truly live as we were created to live. And so, Jesus, being fully God, became fully human to show us the way back. He came to restore what was broken in us.

Take the Gospel story where Jesus chooses the twelve apostles—a huge, defining moment in the start of the Church. But what does Jesus do right before this epic decision? He goes up to the mountain to pray. Imagine that! Jesus, who is perfect, who is God Himself, takes time to pray before making a major decision. He shows us what it means to be fully human—connecting with the Father, seeking His guidance, surrendering to His will. If Jesus needed that time with God, how much more do we?

Prayer, at its heart, is about connection. Sure, we all have our lists of intentions—people we’re praying for, situations we’re concerned about. And that’s good. But the ultimate purpose of prayer is to draw closer to God, to build that relationship with Jesus. I’ll be honest, there are times I’ve gone through the motions, praying rosaries or saying my prayers, and I realize I’m just checking boxes. I can almost hear God saying, “Why are you really praying?”

So, I want to encourage you. When you pray, take a moment to ask yourself: Am I using this time to connect with Him? If our prayers don’t lead us closer to Jesus, maybe we need to shift our focus. Because at the end of the day, the real purpose of prayer, the root of everything we do, is to be rooted in Him. Jesus became human to teach us how to live, how to surrender, how to love. Let’s follow His example, not just in what we do, but in how we connect with God.

Finding Hope in Imperfect Saints

I’ve been thinking a lot about the saints we hear about in church. Have you ever really stopped to consider them—not just as holy figures we admire, but as real, everyday people like us? I think it’s so important to remember: the saints were human, just like us.

When I was in seminary, we’d hear about these saints, and I’d think, “Must be nice to be perfect, right?” Take St. Therese—she seems so perfect. Or St. Augustine—he’s often seen as flawless. But when you really read about Augustine’s life, you realize he wasn’t perfect at all!

And that’s the beauty of it. God wants us to see the saints as real people because it gives us hope. If they were human, and we’re human, then we can get closer to God too, even with all our imperfections.

Look at Saint Bernard. He was a leader, an abbot, and he helped restore the Benedictine order. He joined at 23, bringing 30 people with him, including some family members. Just four years later, he was sent to start a monastery. And he was doing all this before he even turned 30! So what motivated him? What kept him going?

For Bernard, and really for all the saints, there was this burning desire to help bring people to God. Bernard had a deep love for Mary. There’s a story where he stops by a church, sees a statue of Mary, and feels the weight of caring for so many souls. He asks Mary to take care of them, and she appeared to him, comforting him, and assuring him she would always be with him. That moment deepened his devotion to Mary.

Another time, Bernard was heartbroken over people’s sins. He looked at the cross and asked Jesus, “Why would you do this for us? How could you love us this much?” And the story goes that the figure of Jesus on the cross seemed to come alive and said, “I did this because I love you and because I love the world.”

Bernard’s life wasn’t easy. He had a lot on his shoulders, but he found his strength in Jesus and Mary. He taught simplicity and knew that the power wasn’t his—it was Christ’s.

Saint Bernard understood that living for God means letting go of the things the world values most. In the Gospel, Jesus says it’s hard for the rich to enter the kingdom of heaven—not because of their wealth in general, but because of how tightly they cling to it. It’s all about where our hearts are. There are rich people who aren’t consumed by their wealth.

The first shall be last, and the last shall be first. Bernard lived for God, not himself, and now we celebrate him. He might have been last in the eyes of the world, but he’s first in the kingdom of heaven.

So, what are we clinging to? What’s keeping us from God? Let’s get rid of the idea that we need to be perfect to go to God. None of us are perfect. We’re all weak, we’re all sinners. We go to God because we need Him—that’s what the saints understood.

Why Being ‘Right’ Isn’t Always Right: The True Purpose of Rules

There are so many types of personalities in this world, but let me tell you about the one that drives me crazy—the self-righteous type who’s always right and quick to correct others. You know the type, right? Some of you might even know someone like this.

When I first started seminary, I was full of excitement. I had just returned from Jerusalem, where my life had changed, and I was ready to dive deeper into my faith. I joined a group that met for a 5 a.m. holy hour and a workout—yes, even at that time I exercised. What a miracle. There was a guy in that group who loved God deeply, but he was like a drill sergeant. Every little thing we did or didn’t do, he would point out. He’d pause movies about saints to explain lessons, and he even had booklets on how to pray exactly the “right” way. It was intense.

I ended up needing a break from the group because his scrupulous nature was too much for me. But something unexpected happened—I became just like him! Suddenly, I was the one focusing on how others prayed or judged how long someone knelt at Mass. I got so wrapped up in rules and checklists that I lost sight of what really mattered—my relationship with God and others.

Now, don’t get me wrong—I’m not saying that rules are bad. Rules have a purpose. Just like in sports, where rules keep the game fair and organized, God gave us rules to help us draw closer to Him. They give us order and guide us on the right path. The problem comes when we focus so much on the rules that we forget their true purpose: to lead us into a deeper relationship with God and our neighbors.

This reminded me of the Pharisees in the Gospels. They were so focused on the rules that they missed the point: loving God and neighbor. They were blind to the love and mercy that Jesus brought because they were so caught up in their rituals. The rules and laws were always about helping them serve God and others better.

I realized that while rules and laws are important, they are there to guide us, not to replace our love for God and others. The beauty of our faith lies in its ability to draw us into that love, using rules as a guide, not as the goal. So, let’s take a moment to look in the mirror and ask ourselves: Are we so focused on doing everything “right” that we forget to love God and our neighbors?

At the end of the day, it’s not about perfection. It’s about nurturing a genuine relationship with God and each other. Let’s focus on what truly matters.

Flannery O’Connor’s Bold Belief: The Eucharist as Her Lifeline

Sometimes, seeing someone else’s faith can remind us of what truly matters. I remember this from my seminary days at Mount Angel in Oregon. One of my classmates wrote his thesis on Flannery O’Connor, a 20th-century writer known for her deep Catholic faith and stories of struggle and redemption.

Flannery’s love for the Eucharist began at a young age. Growing up in Georgia, she was drawn to the Eucharist and sensed it was something more than just bread and wine. She once asked a priest, “Father, I believe the Eucharist is something more, but what is it?” He replied, “It’s the real presence of Jesus.” This truth touched her deeply, and she never forgot it.

Even after being diagnosed with lupus at 26, Flannery’s devotion didn’t waver. Despite her illness, she insisted on going to Mass, saying, “I need to go to church because Jesus is my strength.” One Sunday, feeling particularly weak, she attended Mass. When the priest lifted the Eucharist, she felt a warmth and strength fill her. For Flannery, the Eucharist was more than a symbol; it was a real encounter with Jesus that gave her life.

Her faith aligns with the Gospel teachings. Jesus said, “I am the bread of life. Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life.” These words were hard for many to accept, and some even left Him. Yet, Jesus didn’t back down from His message. He asked His disciples, “Will you also leave?” Peter responded, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life.”

Flannery held on to this truth throughout her life, believing in the real presence of Jesus in the Eucharist. She once said, “If this is a symbol, to hell with it,” meaning if the Eucharist were just a symbol, it wouldn’t be worth the effort. For her, and for many Catholics, the Eucharist is Jesus Himself.

Her story is a powerful reminder that the Eucharist is not just a symbol; it’s a true encounter with Jesus. When we believe this, like Flannery did, it becomes a source of hope, strength, and renewal, especially in tough times.

So, whether your faith is strong or you’re still seeking, consider Flannery’s journey. Pray for a deeper understanding of the Eucharist. And when faced with doubt, may we, like Peter, say, “To whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life.”

The Struggle of the Heart: Seeing Ourselves Clearly

I was walking with someone on their faith journey, and they opened up to me, saying, “Father, I see what’s good, but I don’t seek it. Instead, I find myself drawn to what’s bad, even though I know it’s wrong.” They felt torn inside, caught between who they wanted to be and who they felt they were. Then they said something that struck me: “I feel like a hypocrite.”

I had to be honest—I feel that way sometimes too. Even as a priest, I struggle with the same human weaknesses. It’s a common struggle for all of us.

Think about the Pharisees and Sadducees. They were the defenders of the Jewish faith, fighting for God from the days of Adam and Eve to Moses. They believed deeply, but they lost their way. In the Gospel, Jesus tells them, “You are keeping people from entering heaven.” That’s a heavy accusation. None of us want to be the reason someone else can’t find their way to God.

But they didn’t realize it. They thought they were serving God, but pride, jealousy, and ego had crept into their hearts. It’s easy to think we’re better than others, but God often shows us our own flaws to keep us humble.

Friends, it’s important to look in the mirror—not just the physical one, but the one that reflects our soul. We all have moments of pride or anger, and God lets us see these moments to teach us and help us grow.

Sometimes, God allows us to see our weaknesses so we can wake up and change. If we don’t recognize our flaws, we risk becoming proud. And remember, pride was the downfall of Satan.

So, let’s stay humble and keep our hearts open. Remember, Jesus speaks not just to them back then, but to us today. Let’s be mindful of our actions and always strive to be better.

God’s Love: The Generosity That Gives Us Heaven

I have to admit, there were times during seminary when I’d find myself wondering, “Is it really fair?” I mean, I discovered God at 19, converted, and dedicated my life to studying theology. I’d think, “Wouldn’t it be nice to just live life however I want, wait until the end, believe in God, and then go straight to heaven?” I’d hear stories of people converting at 80, and I’d think, “Wow, they got to live their whole life first.” Ever had that thought?

As a seminarian, I met a man who became a dear friend. He wasn’t Catholic, wasn’t religious, but he loved his wife dearly. I would bring communion to her every week, and he was always there, in the background, watching, but never participating. He wasn’t a people person, but we got along well.

Over time, I became a deacon, then a priest, and I stayed in touch with him. We’d have lunch together, and he loved our conversations, despite his antisocial nature. Eventually, he got sick, and his daughter called, asking me to visit. I went to be with him, prayed with him, and over time, he expressed a desire to become Catholic, to receive the sacraments. One day, on his hospital bed, before he passed, I gave him all the sacraments. He died soon after. I knew he was going to be okay.

Now, you might wonder, “Is that fair?” Someone who didn’t follow God for most of his life, who didn’t go through years of study or practice, and yet, at the last moment, received everything. Some might say no. But I say, yes, it’s fair. Why? Because God is generous.

I’ve had other people, like this man, come to me at the end of their lives, asking how it’s possible that God could welcome them, sinners that they are, into His Church. And every time, I tell them the same thing: God’s love is generous beyond our understanding.

In today’s Gospel, we see workers who were envious. They started early, worked hard, and when those who came last received the same wage, they were upset. They felt it wasn’t fair. But God’s message is clear: “Are you mad because I’m generous?”

God’s love isn’t something we can measure out or ration. It’s not limited, and it doesn’t operate on a scale of what’s fair in human terms. Without God’s generous love, none of us have a chance at heaven.

if God weren’t generous with His love, none of us would have hope. It’s His generosity that saves us, that brings us to Him, that offers us heaven. We can’t afford to be envious of how God pours out His love on others because He’s doing the same for us.

So, whether someone finds Christ at the last moment or from the very beginning, we should rejoice! God’s love is vast, boundless, and generous. Let’s not be envious. Instead, let’s be grateful for the gift of His love in our lives and share that same generous love with others. Because, in the end, it’s God’s generosity that gives us the chance at eternal life.

“Rediscovering the Eucharist: A Journey from Routine to Reverence”

I don’t know if it’s just me, but when I do something over and over again, I start to go through the motions without really thinking about it. And honestly, if someone tells me I have to do something, it can make me want to do it even less.

During my early days in seminary, we had a daily routine: pray together twice a day and attend Mass. Every. Single. Day. And yes, here I am, a priest, admitting that at the time, I wasn’t thrilled about going to daily Mass. I wanted to sleep in, plain and simple. But skipping wasn’t really an option. If you didn’t show up, they’d be knocking on your door, asking, “Where were you this morning?”

One day, a fellow seminarian from Vietnam, who struggled with English but was deeply dedicated, shared something with me that changed my perspective. He asked if I knew about Cardinal Van Thuan. I didn’t, but he went on to tell me about this incredible man—one of the most inspirational figures from Vietnam.

Cardinal Van Thuan was a man of incredible humility and faith. When the communists took over, they saw him as a threat and locked him up for 12 years—nine of those in solitary confinement. But he didn’t let that break him. Instead of losing hope, he found a way to celebrate Mass every day in that tiny cell. He memorized the Mass, crafted a simple crucifix, and kept a small pyx with the Eucharist close to his heart. With bread and wine smuggled in by friends, he used his hand as an altar, holding on to his unshakable belief that God was right there with him, especially through the Eucharist.

Hearing this story made me rethink my own attitude. Here I was, grumbling about daily Mass, while Cardinal Van Thuan clung to it as his lifeline in the darkest times. For him, the Eucharist wasn’t just a symbol—it was Jesus truly present, nourishing him spiritually and keeping his spirit alive through every trial. His deep love for the Eucharist even inspired some of his guards to convert, showing just how powerful that belief was.

Friends, for the past few weeks, we’ve been diving into the mystery of the Eucharist. We’ve talked about desire—how if we don’t desire to understand and love the Eucharist, we’ll never truly appreciate it. Elijah’s story from the first reading gives us a glimpse of how God nourishes us for our journey, just as He did for Elijah with that simple hearth cake. But what we receive in the Eucharist is far greater. It’s not just bread; it’s the lifeblood of God Himself, a profound source of spiritual nourishment that strengthens us for whatever lies ahead.

Jesus tells us, “I am the bread of life. Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood has life within them.” These aren’t just words. They’re an invitation to recognize the profound gift we’ve been given. When I think about Cardinal Van Thuan, I realize there’s no greater treasure than the Eucharist. It’s nourishment for our souls, a gift from heaven far greater than anything we could ever imagine.

So here we are, in our third week of reflecting on the Eucharist. Let’s not just go through the motions. Let’s ask God to deepen our desire, to help us see the Eucharist for what it truly is—a means of nourishment, a treasure to be cherished, and a reminder of God’s unending love for us.

Walking the Higher Path: Embracing Humility in Everyday Life

For as long as I can remember, one of the hardest lessons I’ve had to learn is choosing to take the higher road. I saw my mom live this out, and I heard it from my spiritual directors too. It means choosing humility, even when you know you’re right, and not feeling the need to prove others wrong.

Life, as my spiritual director often says, is about growing as a person by following Jesus’ example—choosing the humble path. And honestly, that’s not easy. It’s hard to react with humility when everything inside you wants to fight back.

But here’s the deeper truth: When we respond with humility, something powerful happens. We start living in a way that reflects God, and it helps us grow as people while also overcoming what’s not of God.

Take the story from the Gospel where Jesus is asked to pay the temple tax. As the Son of God, Jesus didn’t have to pay, and Peter knew this. But instead of refusing, Jesus chose to pay the tax to avoid causing offense. He chose the humble path.

Now, don’t get me wrong. There are times when we need to stand up against injustice—you know that as well as I do. But there are also times when, like Jesus, we’re called to take the smaller, humble way. This isn’t about being weak; it’s about embracing humility.

I’ve seen this in my own life, especially with my mom. There were moments when she knew someone was wrong, and I knew it too. I’d think, “Mom, speak up! Defend yourself!” But she would just say, “It’s okay. God tells me to be quiet.”

For anyone who faces daily challenges, whether in work, life, or anything else, you know how tough it can be. But looking at Jesus’ example, we’re reminded that sometimes, the real victory comes through humility. Jesus was right, but He submitted.

Why? Because humility keeps our egos, pride, and arrogance in check. It heals us. When we humble ourselves like Jesus did, we find a strength that’s greater than any argument we could win.

In the end, taking the higher road isn’t about letting others walk all over you. It’s about becoming the person God wants you to be—someone who, like Jesus, chooses humility, even when it’s the hardest thing to do.

Embracing Life's Challenges: Lessons from Saint Edith Stein

When I think about the challenges we face, especially as Christians, the phrase "offer it up" comes to mind. My mom used to tell me this all the time, whether I was dealing with a small problem like a stubbed toe or something much bigger. Sometimes that advice felt too simple and a bit frustrating. It made me wonder if, as a priest, I should be offering a deeper understanding of suffering. I can't just tell everyone to "offer it up" without acknowledging the complex meaning behind suffering and the cross.

One story that really speaks to me is that of Saint Edith Stein, also known as Saint Benedicta of the Cross. Her life was full of both sorrow and triumph. She lost her father when she was young. At age 14, she gave up her belief in God. It’s a feeling many of us can relate to—trying to hold onto belief when everything seems uncertain. But then, she read a book about the life of St. Teresa of Avila, and it changed her life.

As Edith grew in her spiritual journey, World War II brought increasing danger for both Christians and Jews. Despite the risks, she fully committed herself to God and focused her writings on understanding suffering. She believed that by embracing the cross, we grow spiritually and help others. People asked her to leave because of the danger but she didn’t want to leave her people. Tragically, the Nazis ended her life in the gas chambers.

In the face of such tragedy, her story might seem like a failure. But I see a deep beauty in her ultimate act of faith and love. When Jesus called his disciples to follow Him, He didn’t hide the fact that it could involve pain. While we may not face a literal crucifixion, each of us carries some kind of cross in life. This makes me wonder if these crosses—whether big or small, personal or shared—might be viewed differently. What if each challenge is a way God brings us closer to Heaven?

By shifting our perspective on challenges and choosing to surrender to God, we can uncover the hidden beauty within our hardships.

TL;DR: Life’s challenges can be opportunities for spiritual growth. By changing how we view our struggles and choosing to surrender them to God, we can uncover the hidden beauty and strength that these difficulties bring, helping us grow closer to Heaven.

Finding Hope in Trials: Embracing Faith Through Life's Challenges

This morning at mass, I felt that someone in the congregation might be struggling and may need some hope. It often seems like the trials we encounter never ends. It’s during these times that God’s hope can shine the brightest, even when we feel surrounded by darkness. This message has deeply resonated with me during my time in seminary, a period filled with its own share of turmoil and uncertainty. I was reminded that God works for the good of those who love Him, as the scripture assures us.

During these challenging moments, I frequently turned to my spiritual directors for guidance. They often shared priceless wisdom: if God is truly who He says He is, I can place my trust in Him, no matter how tough things get. That reassurance isn't just comforting; it’s a lifeline. Even when we're engulfed in spiritual dryness, fear, or anxiety, God’s light is unwavering. Sometimes, we just need to look for it, especially when we feel lost.

Reflecting back on my seminary days, I remember a particular priest who battled sickness with remarkable faith. His strength was palpable, and he often shared how our trials could actually strengthen our faith.

I once encountered a woman going through an incredibly tough time. I questioned what advice I could give her. I felt weighed down by her pain, unsure of the right words. So, I turned to God, seeking guidance on what I might say. It was in that moment that I felt a nudge to share the stories of the Israelites, their suffering, and ultimately, their journey of restoration.

As I recounted their history and struggles, I could see the vulnerability in her face. She asked me if God would truly restore her life. I looked her in the eyes and replied with confidence that yes, restoration would come. I couldn’t tell her how or when this would occur, but I firmly believed it would happen. It’s rooted in my faith in God's nature. If He indeed is who He claims to be, then I can confidently declare that restoration will arrive—though the timing might remain a mystery.

In the first reading from the prophet Jeremiah at mass, we witness God’s commitment to restore blessings to His people after they stray, which profoundly resonates with our own experiences. Like the Israelites, we sometimes lose our way; yet, the promise of restoration remains alive. Our journeys may differ—some may face spiritual dryness, others family turmoil or health issues—but I genuinely believe that God consistently works for the good of all who love Him. That’s just who He is.

"If God is who He says He is, then I can trust in His promise of restoration."

Resonating with the Sacred: My Encounter with Saint Jude's Relic

You know, there's something truly profound about being part of a community united in faith. Recently, I had the chance to witness the powerful influence of this sense of belonging during a special mass at my old parish at Solano—an event centered around the relic of Saint Jude. It felt almost like a pilgrimage, igniting a deep connection to my faith. I mean, how often do we get to come face to face with a relic of one of the apostles of Jesus Christ?

Surprisingly, the relic hadn't journeyed outside of Italy for over fifteen hundred years until just recently. Can you imagine that? When I attended the mass, it wasn’t just the relic that left an impression, but the emotion flowing through the crowd. Two hours passed, and as the priest spoke about the miracles attributed to Saint Jude, I could feel everyone around me falling deeper into their faith. We were all there together, sharing this incredible experience.

However, there was a moment that I am sure confused many—when the priest covered the relic in preparation for the Eucharist. I imagined that people were disappointed, expecting to bask in the relic's presence. Yet, I found myself defending the choice, because I believe that the true presence of Jesus in the Eucharist—surpasses even our admiration for the saints. The St. Jude relic is amazing indeed, but it’s nothing compared to Jesus in the Eucharist. This made me reflect on how, often, our church pews are only half full on Sundays. It’s such a contrast to how far people traveled for that relic.

Please don’t misunderstand me the relic was truly amazing. I grew in my faith and my love for the saints. It’s a compelling reminder that while saints can inspire us, the Eucharist is the ultimate gift. Let’s ask for that desire to fall in love with the Eucharist. Let’s spend time with Jesus in adoration giving thanks to God for this gift. Let’s go to mass with gratitude and joy at God’s greatest gift.

Testimony on how Mary changed my life

I hope this testimony helps you learn how much Mary can help you get closer to God and how she can help you get through this difficult life.

How Can We Help in This Broken World?

I recently wondered what there is for us to do with a world so broken. I mean how can we help? At one of the daily masses, I spoke about this. I felt that God was helping me navigate these troubled times and I hope it helps you as well. Here is the video of what I said.

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