Joseph Osho

  Saint John Bosco, Priest  Hebrews 10:32-39 Psalm 36(37):3-6,23-24,39-40 Mark 4:26-34 FAITH GROWS SILENTLY AND IN A HUMBLE WAY  In today’s gospel passage, Jesus employs the metaphor of the mustard seed to illustrate the dynamics of faith development. The mustard seed, though minuscule in size, possesses the intrinsic potential to transform into a substantial mustard tree, providing refuge for various avian species. This analog exemplifies how faith expands—gradually, patiently, and in a manner that often goes unnoticed. The process of growth is inherently miraculous. It underscores the continual progression that transpires regardless of the farmer's awareness; whether conscious or unconscious, the seed germinates and flourishes. Many of life’s significant transformations require a substantial investment of time. An interaction or a few spoken words can serve as a catalyst, effectively "planting a seed" within our cognitive and spiritual landscapes. Seeds of faith can ger...

  Thursday of week 3 in Ordinary Time  Hebrews 10:19-25 Psalm 23(24):1-6 Mark 4:21-25 HARNESSING DIVINE ILLUMINATION TO NAVIGATE LIFE’S PATHWAYS  In the gospel passage we examine today, Jesus cautions against concealing a lighted lamp under a bushel, basket, or bed—each concealment raising concerns about safety and visibility (Mark 4:21, Matthew 5:15, Luke 8:16, and Luke 11:33).  The account from Mark specifically challenges us to consider whether we obscure our inner light or elevate it on a stand for comprehensive illumination. We must permit the light of Christ to permeate our lives, radiating clearly for the world to witness. His teachings serve as a guide through the journey of life, providing light accompanied by wisdom, peace, and hope. Conversely, those who opt to dwell in darkness are left with a profound void, often so entrenched in their state that they cannot perceive any glimmer of hope. Remaining in darkness effectively positions individuals away from G...

  Wednesday of week 3 in Ordinary Time  Hebrews 10:11-18 Psalm 109(110):1-4 Mark 4:1-20 ALLOWING THE WORD OF GOD TO GROW IN OUR HEARTS  The parable of the sower in today’s gospel serves as a profound allegory, extending beyond the mere processes of planting, pruning, and nurturing to encompass the intricate care of our spiritual well-being. Engaging with the metaphor of cultivation, one might ask: how do we effectively nurture our souls? What elements do we choose to cultivate or prune? In what ways can we sustain our spiritual vitality? Just as botanical species experience alternating phases of growth, flowering, and dormancy, so too do our souls undergo cyclical transformations. Jesus draws a direct parallel between the seed sown by the sower and the Word of God, underscoring the Scriptures as a substantial source of nourishment for our spiritual lives. In the Benedictine tradition, this nourishment is practiced through Lectio Divina—an intentional, meditative approach ...

  Saint Thomas Aquinas, Priest, Doctor  Hebrews 10:1-10 Psalm 39(40):2,4,7-8,10,11 Mark 3:31-35 Today, we commemorate the profound contributions of Saint Thomas Aquinas, a pivotal figure in scholastic philosophy and theology. An Italian Dominican friar, philosopher, priest, and recognized as the "Angelic Doctor," Aquinas's impact as a jurist and thinker has permeated ecclesial studies and the broader intellectual tradition. His extensive body of work has become a cornerstone in the development of theological education for clergy and lay leaders alike. Aquinas is renowned for his methodological rigor and philosophical depth, yet he anchors his teachings in practical wisdom concerning the virtues of prudence, wisdom, and humility. For instance, he outlines a four-step framework for the cultivation of wisdom: to "listen willingly, seek diligently, respond prudently, and meditate attentively." This systematic approach not only enhances intellectual capacity but also...

  Monday of week 3 in Ordinary Time  Hebrews 9:15,​24-28 Psalm 97(98):1-6 Mark 3:22-30 SEEING GOD’S INTERVENTION AND ON THE CAPACITY TO LOVE AND TO RECONCILE  In our first reading from the letter to the Hebrews, we find a significant theological assertion: Christ inaugurates a new covenant as its mediator, having “once for all appeared at the end of the ages to take away sin through His sacrifice.” This act, rather than being one of condemnation, is fundamentally redemptive in nature. In the Gospel passage today, we encounter a contentious reaction from some scribes who, upon witnessing or hearing about Jesus's exorcisms, assert, “He is possessed by Beelzebul” and claim, “By the prince of demons he drives out demons.” Jesus counters these allegations with a logical inconsistency: “How can Satan drive out Satan?” Toward the conclusion of this reading, He emphasizes the gravity of blaspheming the Holy Spirit, stating, “Amen, I say to you, all sins and all blasphemies that p...

  3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time  Nehemiah 8:2-6,​8-10 Psalm 18(19):8-10,15 1 Corinthians 12:12-30 Luke 1:1-4,​4:14-21 CHRIST IS THE FULFILLMENT OF SACRED SCRIPTURE In today’s liturgical readings, we observe a significant moment in the history of Israel as recounted in the Book of Nehemiah. The returned exiles, under Ezra's leadership, engage in a communal reading of the Torah, demonstrating both an adherence to Jewish Law and a collective sense of accountability. The narrative illustrates their attentive listening, culminating in expressions of contrition as the people prostrate themselves in sorrow for their transgressions. However, Ezra and Nehemiah redirect their focus towards joy, affirming that “rejoicing in the Lord must be your strength,” which underscores the transformative power of divine joy amid communal repentance. This theme of joy is prominently echoed in the Gospel narrative from Luke, where Jesus returns to Nazareth and reads from the book of Isaiah. This passage...

  The Conversion of Saint Paul, Apostle  - Feast   Acts 22:3-16 Psalm 116(117) Mark 16:15-18 Paul serves as a paradigmatic example of cultural indoctrination, as evidenced in the Book of Acts. He identifies himself as “a Pharisee, born of Pharisees” (Acts 23:6) and emphasizes his fervent devotion to God (Acts 22:3). This foundational understanding frames his zealous defense of the Jewish legal tradition, particularly in opposition to the burgeoning sect known as “the Way.” This sect was perceived as a significant threat to his ancestral laws and practices. Paul’s unwavering commitment to his cultural and religious framework prompts critical reflection on the nature of cultural identity and the ancestral “laws” that we, too, may be clinging to, perhaps at the expense of spiritual growth and transformation. What social constructs might hinder or shape our Christian practices? In a pivotal moment, Jesus intervenes directly, revealing to Paul the gravity of his actions: ...