I remember once hearing a speaker marvelling at the “gentleness of God.” My reaction was incredulity. Gentleness? Many in that very room were experiencing great anguish, while around us swirled life’s turbulence and trouble. Of all things one could assert about God, this one seemed the most indefensible. What good could gentleness do, anyway, in a harsh and chaotic world? What is needed is strength and power to assist people whose lives and dilemmas are anything but gentle.

Second Sunday of Advent, Dec. 5 (Year C) Baruch 5:1-9; Psalm 126; Philippians 1:3-6, 8-11; Luke 3:1-6

The beautiful and soaring imagery of many prophecies usually collides with cold, hard reality. The utopian promises rarely seem to materialize, for our spiritual journey takes place on the earthly plane with its own laws and customs.

First Sunday of Advent, Nov. 28 (Year C) Jeremiah 33:14-16; Psalm 25; 1 Thessalonians 3:12-4:2; Luke 21:25-28, 34-36

“The days are surely coming” is a phrase often repeated in prophetic texts of the Old Testament. It is usually followed by a detailed description of what God is going to do for Israel — most often, it will be a glorious and prosperous future.

Christ the King, Nov. 21 (Year B) Daniel 7:13-14; Psalm 93; Revelation 1:5-8; John 18: 33b-37

Much of our theology, religious imagery and prophetic visions are created at least in part by our experiences.

33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time, Nov. 14 (Year B) Daniel 12:1-3; Psalm 16; Hebrews 10:11-14, 18; Mark 13:24-32

How do people respond when they feel that God is absent or has deserted them? Many give in to cynicism, despair and loss of faith and purpose, while others find new purpose and meaning.

Is love stronger than death? What an arduous, soul-changing task it is to test for ourselves the answer to this question.

32nd Sunday in Ordinary Time, Nov. 7 (Year B) 1 Kings 17:10-16; Psalm 146; Hebrews 9:24-28; Mark 12:38-44

Elijah’s request might have seemed a bit presumptuous and insensitive to the poor widow at Zarephath.

If someone were to ask you who Mary Magdalene was, what would you tell the person?

31st Sunday in Ordinary Time, Oct. 31 (Year B) Deuteronomy 6:2-6; Psalm 18; Hebrews 7:23-28; Mark 12:28-34

The majority of the most beautiful and profound teachings in our world are brief, concise, and simple — but seldom easy.

30th Sunday in Ordinary Time, Oct. 24 (Year B) Jeremiah 31:7-9; Psalm 126; Hebrews 5:1-6; Mark 10:46-52

Without hope people and nations wither and die. With a hope-filled vision, all things are possible.