A fork in the road
We like to believe we’re in control, but Jeremiah 17 reveals the truth. Those who rely on their own strength are like a withered bush in the desert, struggling to survive. Those who trust in the Lord are like a tree planted by the water, thriving even in drought. Our hearts deceive us, leading us astray, but God searches, knows, and transforms us. True security is not found in self-reliance but in God’s grace. He plants us, nourishes us, and sustains us. When life’s choices come, where will you place your trust?
Deep waters, deeper grace
Jesus calls Simon Peter from his familiar life of fishing into deeper trust and discipleship. Despite empty nets and weary hearts, Simon obeys Jesus’ word and experiences an overwhelming catch, revealing God’s abundant grace. This mirrors the Church today—facing decline and uncertainty, yet called to trust in Christ rather than cling to old structures. Following Jesus requires surrender, listening to His voice, and stepping into the unknown. As we embrace His call, He transforms us, just as He did with Simon. May we trust in His leading, even when it feels risky, knowing He provides all we need.
The greatest of these is love
Paul’s words in 1 Corinthians 13 reveal that love is the foundation of Christian life. Without love, even the greatest gifts—eloquence, faith, or sacrifice—are meaningless. True love, described as patient, kind, humble, and selfless, reflects Christ’s love for us. Unlike spiritual gifts that will fade, love is eternal, enduring beyond this life into God’s kingdom. Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection reveal this perfect love, calling us to embody it daily. As we receive His love, we are empowered to reflect it in our relationships, glorifying God and bringing His light into a world in desperate need of love.
The first sign
Jesus’ first miracle at the wedding in Cana reveals His divine power through something as ordinary as water turned into wine. This sign points to His role as the true bridegroom of the Church, demonstrating His abundant love and provision. God’s glory is revealed in simple, everyday things, showing that His grace is not just sufficient but overflowing. Miracles and worship are not just for spectacle but to strengthen faith. Like the disciples who believed after witnessing this sign, we are invited to trust in Jesus, who provides more than we need and reveals God’s abundant grace to us.
Clothed in Christ
As people who have been clothed with the love of Christ in baptism, we are called to live in that love every day. Christmas is a great reminder of that love, but how can we carry the joy of Christmas into every day? In Christ, we are clothed with compassion, freed by forgiveness, and we persevere in peace.
The gift of grace
On this special day, we celebrate the gift of grace. God’s saving grace, revealed to us in this baby born in Bethlehem, is the greatest gift we could ever receive. God’s grace appeared to save us. God’s grace renews and transforms us. God’s grace gives us hope for our future.
The Magnificat
Advent is a season of waiting, but in this final week, our anticipation turns to joy and proclamation. Mary’s song, the Magnificat, offers a profound glimpse into how God works through humble people to fulfill His promises. Her words invite us to magnify the Lord and to live in alignment with God’s transformative vision for the world.
Preparing with purpose
In the years and months before Jesus’ arrival in the world, John the Baptist preaches with intensity and urgency, but his words are a call to a real, joyful transformation. Today, John lays out for us three ways to prepare this Advent with purpose: through repentance, generosity, and hope.
The dawn of a new day
During long nights with a baby that just won’t sleep, it can be difficult to see the end of it. But, when the dawn starts to break, there is hope that it’ll all be OK. There will still be a new day in front of us. There will be a tomorrow, and there is a chance it’ll be better than today was. This is the kind of hope that Jesus brings into the world.
Living in hopeful anticipation
Advent begins with the theme of anticipation—not just for Christmas, but for the ultimate fulfillment of God’s promises. In a world filled with anxiety and uncertainty, Christ calls us to live in hopeful anticipation as we watch for His redemption.