Devotions
Hands Open, Willing It to Happen
During a pilgrimage I was on last summer, I found myself staring at an image of the second Station of the Cross, when Jesus carries His cross. What was different...
But I Don't Like Feet
There are few things in life I love as much as getting a good pedicure. The hot bubble bath for my toes delights me. And that foot massage with lotion?...
Have Mercy on Me
"What are you willing to give me if I hand him over to you?" (Matthew 26:15) For the times I handed You over, Lord, for popularity and acceptance, have mercy...
Blindness by Pride
When I was a teenager I went on several retreats and was involved in my youth group. In my early 20s I served with a Catholic ministry for almost an...
In the Quiet
Growing up, I was always so thrilled to start Holy Week on Palm Sunday. The readings, the palms, the pomp, and the Hosannas! So exciting! But then, a lull. Monday....
Palm-Stabbing Sunday, Sacramentals, and an Intro to Holy Week
Today is Palm Sunday. It’s the day upon which we recall Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem, listen to the ( L O N G ) Gospel description of His passion...
Dumb Lies, Hard Hearts
I was friends with Travis for almost two years. We were good friends, too—I even helped pick out the engagement ring he gave to his high-school sweetheart. A few months...
My Rock of Refuge
Most days I sit down for a few minutes of quiet prayer after the craziness of our home school morning has passed by, the children are fed, and the quiet...
Making Minor Moments Matter
Each morning, as I say goodbye to my youngest children, they receive a blessing on their foreheads with the words, "Bring God glory through your actions." It is a little...
Faith of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego
As a child, I loved to read a book we had about the story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, which we hear in today's First Reading. (Daniel 3:14-20, 91-92, 95)...
Pause and Listen
Am I the only one counting the days left in Lent? It’s a little embarrassing how weary I’ve become with fasting and the liturgical season meant to make me rely...
Protector of Christ, Protector of Us
My hometown cathedral houses a beautiful statue of the Holy Family. The statue depicts the Child Jesus standing in front of Mary and Joseph. Mary's hands are folded in prayer...
