In this unique reading there is a meeting between Mary and Elizabeth – and the children they are carrying in their wombs. Fr Adrian Graffy reflects.
Gospel Reflections
‘What must we do, then?’
Luke’s gospel portrays John the Baptist as a social reformer: he calls on us to share with the hungry and with the needy, to act with justice and to avoid violence. Fr Adrian Graffy reflects.
‘Prepare a way for the Lord’
In this reading we hear about John the Baptist who challenges the people to a new start, a change of heart, and to seek the forgiveness of God. Fr Adrian Graffy reflects.
‘Stand erect, hold your heads high’
Jesus’ words in this reading remind us that in Advent we look forward both to the first coming of the Son of God in Bethlehem, and to his glorious return. Fr Adrian Graffy reflects.
‘I came to bear witness to the truth’
The gospels throughout the year present us with a choice, whether, like Pilate, to pursue earthly values or, alternatively, to pursue the truth. Fr Adrian Graffy reflects.
‘No one knows but the Father’
In this week’s gospel Jesus talks in the language of his time about the end of the world, warning that no one but the Father knows when this will come. Fr Adrian Graffy reflects.
‘She has put in everything she possessed’
In this reading Jesus contrasts the self-assured scribes parading their virtue with the humble widow offering all she has to live on. Fr Adrian Graffy reflects.
‘Love your neighbour as yourself’
This reading shows how Jesus’ teaching takes the Hebrew Scriptures as its starting point – and his agreement with the teachers of Judaism. Fr Adrian Graffy reflects.
‘Go; your faith has saved you’
In this week’s reading the story of Bartimaeus reminds us that human beings are in need of healing and forgiveness, and these are the things that Jesus provides. Fr Adrian Graffy reflects.
‘The Son of Man did not come to be served but to serve’
In this reading Jesus tells his disciples that they should not crave status and power but must be the servants of all. Fr Adrian Graffy reflects on the implications for us.