by Greg Beben | Oct 21, 2023 | Meditations
It may be helpful to review some of the background to the cunning question that is brought to Jesus in today’s Gospel. The Romans at the time were occupying Israel and imposing taxes on the people. The Israelites had to pay taxes using Roman coins bearing the image of...
by Greg Beben | Oct 14, 2023 | Meditations
The readings today invite us to ponder the theme of abundance. We can safely presume that all people aspire for some sort of abundance. But how do we properly direct this natural inclination? How can we keep our hearts in check so that we do not go overboard or become...
by Greg Beben | Oct 7, 2023 | Meditations
Today’s Gospel Acclamation can serve as a key to help unlock for us what today’s readings are saying: “I have chosen you from the world, says the Lord, to go and bear fruit that will remain.” Like the vineyard owner both in the first reading and in the Gospel, God has...
by Greg Beben | Sep 30, 2023 | Meditations
In today’s Gospel there are two references to people “changing their minds.” The first, a positive case, is the son who initially said “no” to his father’s orders. The second is expressed negatively, describing the chief priests and the elders who refused to believe....
by Greg Beben | Sep 23, 2023 | Meditations
“You too go into my vineyard!” Ever since the beginning of the mission of Our Lord Jesus Christ, this very invitation has never failed to resound in the course of history. It is addressed to every person who comes into this world. It is being addressed to each of us...
by Greg Beben | Sep 16, 2023 | Meditations
Last Sunday, Jesus’ instruction was about fraternal correction. This week, as we continue to read from Matthew 18, our focus shifts from correcting to forgiving. At the heart of the Gospel is the call to extend mercy to others because God has been so merciful to us....
