Browsing the 2022 archive of PARISH BLOG - INSPIRATION FOR THE WEEK
The shepherds
Posted by Lenny Ricciardelli on 12/31/22
The shepherds returned from Bethlehem “glorifying and praising God.” They were affected deeply by the sight of the infant Messiah and the message of the angels. What would the world look like, if we allowed ourselves to be likewise impacted by the word of God?
The true meaning of Christmas
Posted by Lenny Ricciardelli on 12/20/22
The true meaning of Christmas is not found in the twinkling lights, the beautifully adorned trees, or the exchanged gifts. It is revealed when we find God along the way of our lives, especially when we feel displaced, desperate, and alone. Fleeing from their home, Joseph and Mary cautiously ... Read More »
“God is with us.”
Posted by Lenny Ricciardelli on 12/16/22
“God is with us.” This is the one constant in the unpredictability of life. The particulars of our lives can change, not only instantly but dramatically. People experiencing a time of peace can easily find themselves at war. Times of prosperity can rapidly become times of want. Our vision ... Read More »
Feelings
Posted by Lenny Ricciardelli on 12/11/22
We can often feel parched, desolate, lifeless, and dark. Even though we still engage in the business and demands of life, we find ourselves somewhat detached, disengaged, and removed. We lack joy, wonder, awe, and zest. Rather than being an experience of freedom and excitement, life holds us captive. ... Read More »
“God is endurance and encouragement.”
Posted by Lenny Ricciardelli on 12/04/22
The God in whom we believe is “the God of endurance and encouragement.” Have you ever thought about God in those terms? Our sight can become limited by the concerns of the world and our individual lives. We can look to the past and see what is happening in ... Read More »
GOD's Grace
Posted by Lenny Ricciardelli on 11/26/22
Whether it is the surgeon performing an operation or the pilot directing a flight, one expects them to be alert. When we entrust our lives to someone, we presume that they will attend to them with the utmost care and vigilance. If we have this expectation of others, why ... Read More »
Our king hangs on a cross
Posted by Lenny Ricciardelli on 11/19/22
Our king hangs on a cross. Onlookers saw this as the final defeat of a fool who many saw as an insurrectionist. They laughed at him and challenged his kingship by looking for proof: Save yourself! Historically, earthly kings are influential figures wielding significant power over the quality of ... Read More »
Jesus assures us that the world will end
Posted by Lenny Ricciardelli on 11/13/22
Jesus assures us that the world, as we know it, will one day come to an end. When will this be? In one sense, having an answer to that question really does not matter. Faith is faith and either we have it or we do not. Secure in that ... Read More »
We are told that we shall become like God.
Posted by Lenny Ricciardelli on 11/05/22
Every believer wonders about what the experience of heaven will be like. Popular images of people walking around in white robes, becoming like angels, and reunions with those who have gone before us all tickle human imagination. Jesus never got too specific about what heaven actually looks like. But ... Read More »