Sacrifice
“While very detailed instructions are given for other elements of sacrificial rituals, none are given for the means of killing the animals involved. To sacrifice something is not to kill it, but to eat it as a sacred meal. This required its death, whether the sacrifice was of animals or plants (such as first fruits from the harvest and grain offerings).” (Fr. Stephen De Young) “…the empty formalism of ritual sacrifices will not make up for sin. Perfunctory religious practices
Weakness
“The second active character in this event [Matthew 26:6-16] is the sinful woman, whom the Church’s tradition and hymns tell us had...
Rules and Legalism
“Isn’t it amazing that everyone is taught grammar so no one writes in his own way, but according to the rules? They try to teach everyone...
Impulse and Impulsivity
“When things do not happen as expected, we are often at the mercy of our impulses. The accusation of a lowly servant girl ambushed Peter...
Joy and Happiness - Part 1
“…we have a misleading idea at the very head of our Constitution: the pursuit of happiness. One can not pursue happiness; if he does he...
Humility, Pride, and Repentance
“…we must guard against thinking that a humble heart is easily acquired. Although we are attracted to humility, we should anticipate a...
Sin
“...sin is committed in three stages, namely, the suggestion of it, the pleasure experienced, and the consent…Our captivity to sin begins...
Work/Vocations/Callings (Part 1)
“As a human created in God’s image, you are inherently significant and when you work you are doing something that is very Godlike. It is...
Prayer and Decision-Making
“The Gospel writers note that before every important event in Jesus’ life, He would take time to go off by Himself and pray...Make sure...