Life often presents us with crossroads and opportunities that stretch our comfort zones. In these moments, we stand at the threshold of new experiences and unexplored territories. They can be joyful challenges, or at times fearful changes. The question that arises is whether we are open to the leading of the Holy Spirit, willing to take chances, and ready to risk stepping into the unknown. In this blog post, I want to delve into the transformative power of being receptive to the Holy Spirit’s guidance, embracing risks, and venturing into uncharted territories.

The Holy Spirit, often depicted as the quiet but persistent whisper in our hearts, has a unique way of guiding us towards paths we might never have considered. It’s easy to get caught up in our plans and routines, but by listening to the Spirit’s nudges, we open ourselves to divine guidance that can lead us to unexpected blessings and opportunities.

Stepping into the unknown can be intimidating. It requires leaving behind the familiar and facing uncertainty. But it’s precisely at this juncture that growth occurs. The Holy Spirit often invites us to let go of our fears, trust in God’s plan, and courageously step forward, reminding us that we are not alone on this journey.

Risk-taking is often associated with unpredictability, but it doesn’t mean acting recklessly. When guided by the Holy Spirit, taking risks becomes a calculated step toward a potentially transformative experience. It’s about discerning the Spirit’s prompting and moving forward with a sense of purpose and faith.

New experiences provide fertile ground for personal growth, learning, and spiritual expansion. Whether it’s a new job, a new community, or a new endeavour, the Holy Spirit’s leading can infuse these experiences with purpose and meaning, helping us discover aspects of ourselves we might not have known otherwise.

Taking chances and embracing new experiences often involves overcoming resistance within ourselves. Doubts, fears, and self-imposed limitations can hold us back. However, when we align our hearts with the Holy Spirit’s guidance, we tap into a wellspring of strength that empowers us to overcome our internal obstacles.

Trusting the Holy Spirit’s guidance means surrendering our plans to God’s providence. It’s acknowledging that God’s wisdom surpasses our understanding and that God knows what’s best for us. When we trust in this divine providence, we can face new experiences with a sense of peace, even in the face of uncertainty.

Conclusion: Being open to the leading of the Holy Spirit, taking chances, and risking new experiences are integral aspects of a vibrant and fulfilling life. It’s an invitation to collaborate with God in co-creating our life journey—a journey marked by growth, transformation, and the discovery of our true potential. As we navigate the uncharted waters of life, let us lean into the whispers of the Holy Spirit, embracing risks with faith, and stepping confidently into the unknown. For it’s in these moments that we truly live and experience the richness of God’s grace and guidance.

May we continue to listen, learn, and courageously embrace the opportunities that unfold before us, knowing that the Holy Spirit’s leading is a beacon of light guiding us towards a purpose-filled and abundant life.

In our fast-paced and demanding world, the importance of self-care and spiritual well-being can’t be overstated. As we navigate the complexities of daily life, it’s essential to find moments of rest, renewal, and rejuvenation for our physical, emotional, and spiritual health. The pace of our lives makes it ever more important that we make times for vacation as an act of spiritual care. In this blog post, I want to think of how vacation time can be a transformative and enriching experience for your soul.

I’ve been on vacation for almost two weeks.  I love ministry.  I love the work that I do. And still, it is taxing, and in order to be able to give my very best through the rest of the year, it is important that I find time and ways to stop and rest.  I’ve not done much in those two weeks, beyond enjoying some good books; a few journeys around the golf course, and some day trips to interesting places in our part of the world, but all of those together have contributed greatly to the rejuvenation of my soul and body. In this blog, I reflect on some of the important ways to care for our own soul through a good vacation.

1. Rest and Reconnect: Vacations offer a unique opportunity to step away from the busyness and routines of life, creating space for rest and reflection. In this intentional time away, disconnect from work-related stressors and daily responsibilities, allow your mind and soul to recharge. Amidst the tranquil moments, reconnect with yourself and with God. Deepen your spiritual connection.
2. Embrace Nature’s Beauty: Whether it’s relaxing by the beach, hiking in the mountains, or stargazing in the wilderness, find ways to immerse yourself in the beauty of nature. Nature has a way of stirring our souls, reminding us of the grandeur of creation and the Creator. Take in nature’s splendor and foster a sense of awe and gratitude. That in itself will lead to spiritual growth and awareness.
3. Engage in Soulful Practices: Vacation time provides an ideal setting to engage in soulful practices that nurture your spiritual life. Set aside some of the time that being away from daily work provides for some prayer, meditation, journaling, or reading. These practices can help us gain clarity, find inner peace, and discern our life’s purpose. Use this time to explore spiritual activities that resonate with your heart.
4. Seek Sacred Spaces: While on vacation, seek out sacred spaces that offer opportunities for reflection and worship. This could be a local place of worship, a quiet chapel, or even a serene spot in nature. As I wrote this,  I thought back to the summer I spent serving St. Edmund’s Church in Tobermory.  My home was built directly onto the side of the Church itself.  I have a sacred space available to me at all times, yet on every day off,  I found myself out hiking sections of the Bruce Trail, because those spaces seemed the most awesome and sacred of all. Being in such spaces can help you feel connected to something greater than yourself and bring a sense of peace and solace.
5. Cultivate Gratitude: Gratitude is a powerful spiritual practice that opens our hearts to the abundance of blessings in our lives. During your vacation, intentionally cultivate gratitude by focusing on the present moment and recognizing the gifts that surround you. Gratitude can shift your perspective, infuse joy into your journey, and strengthen your spiritual well-being.
6. Engage in Acts of Service: While vacation time is primarily for your rejuvenation, it can also be an opportunity to engage in acts of service and compassion. Consider volunteering or supporting local community initiatives during your vacation. Engaging in acts of kindness can deepen your sense of purpose and connection with others, fostering a profound sense of spiritual care.

As I move through this time of vacation for the next few weeks, I plan to remember that it is more than just a break from work—it is an opportunity to prioritize spiritual well-being and embrace self-care. In nurturing the soul, I hope to return from vacation refreshed, with a renewed sense of purpose, and a deeper connection to the divine.

May your vacation time be a transformative journey of spiritual care as well. May you find rest, discover inner peace, and embrace the beauty of your soul’s journey.

In our fast-paced and often hectic lives, self-care has become a buzzword that holds tremendous significance. It’s a practice that goes beyond bubble baths and spa days – it’s about consciously nurturing our well-being, both physically and mentally. One powerful and gratifying way to engage in self-care for me is through the art of cooking. In this blog post, let’s explore how cooking a great meal can be a form of self-care that not only satisfies your taste buds but also nourishes your soul.

The Therapeutic Power of Cooking

Cooking is more than just a means of sustenance; it’s a creative outlet that allows you to channel your emotions and energy into something tangible. The process of chopping, stirring, and sautéing can be surprisingly therapeutic, acting as a form of meditation that helps ease stress and anxiety. As you engage with the ingredients, you become fully present in the moment, letting go of worries and allowing your mind to find a sense of calm.

Mindful Engagement

Cooking a great meal requires focus and attention to detail. This mindfulness extends beyond the kitchen, as practicing attentive cooking encourages you to be present in other areas of your life as well. When you’re mindful while cooking, you make deliberate choices, savor the aroma of herbs and spices, and relish the textures and colors of the ingredients. This kind of mindfulness can spill over into your daily routine, promoting a more conscious and intentional approach to life.

Creative Expression

Cooking is an art, and the kitchen is your canvas. Experimenting with flavors, textures, and presentations allows you to express your creativity in a delicious and tangible way. Whether you’re trying a new recipe or improvising with what you have on hand, the act of cooking sparks your imagination and gives you a sense of accomplishment when you see the final masterpiece on the plate.

A Sense of Achievement

Completing a complex recipe or preparing a multi-course meal provides a sense of achievement that boosts your self-esteem. As you create a culinary masterpiece, you’re reminded of your ability to take on challenges and accomplish goals. This boost in confidence can transcend the kitchen and positively impact other aspects of your life, empowering you to tackle obstacles with a newfound vigor.

Nourishing Your Body and Soul

Cooking a great meal as an act of self-care goes beyond just feeding your body; it’s about nourishing your soul. When you put effort into selecting quality ingredients, preparing them with care, and savoring each bite, you’re sending a powerful message to yourself: you deserve the time and attention you’re investing in this meal. This practice of self-nourishment fosters a sense of self-worth and self-love, which are essential components of overall well-being.

Sharing the Love

Cooking a great meal can also be an act of love and connection when shared with others. Inviting friends or family to join you in the kitchen or sitting down to enjoy a meal together creates bonds and cherished memories. The act of giving through food can be deeply fulfilling, and the shared experience enhances the positive effects of your self-care practice.

In a world that often emphasizes productivity and external achievements, taking the time to cook a great meal for yourself can be a radical act of self-care. It’s a practice that engages your senses, nurtures your creativity, and provides a sense of accomplishment. So, the next time you find yourself seeking a way to care for your well-being, consider stepping into the kitchen and cooking up a delicious meal – a hearty dose of self-care that nourishes both body and soul. Here below is a recipe I made the other night that was easy, delicious, and just a joy to make and to share. Try it yourself. Take care of yourself.

Thai Chicken Skewers in a Peanut Satay

3 Chicken breasts – cut into long, thin strips

1 tbsp Tamari (gluten free)

2 garlic cloves – peeled and crushed

7 oz (200ml) coconut milk – from a tin

½ tsp cumin

½ tsp coriander

¼ tsp ground ginger

Satay sauce:

3 heaped tbsp smooth peanut butter

1 tbsp Tamari (gluten free)

½ tsp chilli flakes – (red pepper flakes)

1 tbsp Fish sauce

7 oz (200ml) coconut milk – from a tin

1 tbsp light brown sugar

½ tsp ground coriander

Juice of 1 lime

To Serve:

fresh red Thai chillis – thinly sliced

2 tbsp Fresh cilantro – chopped

½ tsp chilli flakes – (red pepper flakes)

¼ red onion – peeled and finely sliced

1 tbsp roasted peanuts – roughly chopped

1 tsp sesame seeds

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Begin by soaking 8 wooden skewers in water for half an hour. This will prevent them from burning when cooking.
2. Place the sliced chicken breast in a large bowl with the rest of the chicken skewer ingredients. Mix together using your hands and massage the sauce into the chicken for a minute. Cover and place in the fridge to marinate for at least 30 mins.
3. While the meat is marinating, place all of the satay sauce ingredients EXCEPT for the lime juice into a small pan.
4. Heat over medium heat whilst stirring with a wooden spoon. The sauce will look thin at first, then as it comes close to boiling point, it will start to thicken. Don’t let the sauce boil, just turn down the heat as it approaches boiling point and stir until thickened, then turn off the heat and stir in the lime juice.
5. Take the skewers out of the water and give them a shake to remove excess water, then thread the chicken strips onto the skewers, and place the skewers on a plate.
6. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 8-10 minutes until golden brown – turning a couple of times during cooking.
7. Place the skewers on plates, then reheat the satay sauce if you like it hot. Top with your Satay sauce, fresh cilantro, a few slices of red chilli, some red pepper flakes, chopped peanuts, sesame seeds, and thinly sliced red onion.

As my birthday approached this year, I found myself reflecting on the passing of yet another year and all the many blessings that have graced my life in that year. Birthdays aren’t just a day for celebration. They’re also a time for deep gratitude—a time to pause, take stock, and give thanks for the journey. I want to stop today and express my heartfelt appreciation and share my reflections on some of the blessings that have shaped my life.

1. Gratitude for Life Itself: The gift of life is the foundation of all blessings. As I celebrate another year, I am filled with gratitude for the breath in my lungs, the beating of my heart, (which of course I came to be a lot more conscious of this year) and the opportunity to experience the beauty and wonder of this amazing world. Life is a precious gift, and I am thankful for the moments, both big and small, that have shaped my journey.
2. Appreciation for Relationships: Birthdays provide an occasion to acknowledge and express gratitude for the relationships that enrich our lives. I am grateful for my family, friends, and loved ones—the individuals who have walked alongside me, supported me, and shared in both my joys and my sorrows. Their presence and love have made my life meaningful and vibrant.
3. Reflection on Personal Growth: Each passing year offers opportunities for personal growth, learning, and self-discovery. Birthdays provide a great opportunity to reflect on the lessons learned, the challenges overcome, and the strides taken towards becoming the person that I aspire to be. I am grateful for the moments of growth, for the resilience developed through adversity, and for the continuous journey of self-improvement.
4. Celebration of Achievements: Birthdays invite celebration of personal achievements, both big and small. It’s a time to acknowledge and appreciate the milestones reached, the goals accomplished, and the contributions made. I am thankful for the opportunities that have come my way, the accomplishments that have shaped my path, and the positive impact I have had in various areas of my life.
5. Gratefulness for Lessons Learned: Alongside achievements, birthdays also provide an opportunity to express gratitude for the lessons learned through mistakes and failures. I am thankful for the times when I stumbled and fell, because they have taught me resilience, perseverance, and the importance of embracing growth and learning from every experience.
6. Appreciation for God’s Guidance: Above all, I am grateful for God’s presence and guidance throughout my life. Birthdays offer a moment to acknowledge and a reminder to give thanks for God’s faithfulness, grace, and love. I am thankful for the ways in which God has provided, protected, and guided me on this journey. Each day is a gift, and I am humbled by the presence of the Divine in every aspect of my life.

As I celebrate my birthday this year, I am filled with a deep sense of gratitude for the countless blessings that have shaped my life. My experience this year has reminded me of the importance of appreciating every day, cherishing relationships, embracing growth, and finding joy in the journey. Birthdays aren’t just about the number of years lived but about the richness of experiences, the depth of connections, and the gratitude that fills our hearts.

So, as I blow out the candles and make a wish this year, I’m going to offer a prayer of gratitude—for the past, the present, and the future. I am grateful for the lessons learned, the love received, and the blessings yet to come. May this birthday be a reminder of all the countless reasons to be thankful and may that same sense of gratitude infuse EVERY other day of my life.

In this week’s lectionary Gospel, we are given a series of parables shared by Jesus, each one offering insights into the nature of God and God’s reign. Jesus presents a collection of parables, often referred to as the “Parables of the Kingdom,” which reveal hidden treasures and truths. These parables challenge us to explore the depths of God’s kingdom and inspire us to seek the valuable and transformative aspects of our faith.

1. The Parable of the Mustard Seed: In this parable, Jesus compares the kingdom of heaven to a mustard seed, one of the tiniest seeds, which grows into a large tree where birds find shelter. This parable reminds us that God’s kingdom may begin humbly, but it has the potential to grow and expand beyond our imagination. It encourages us to nurture and invest in even the smallest seeds of faith, knowing that God can use even that little to bring about great things.
2. The Parable of the Yeast: Jesus likens the kingdom of heaven to yeast, which a woman mixes into a large amount of flour, causing the whole batch to rise. This parable illustrates how God’s kingdom works quietly and subtly, permeating every aspect of our lives. It encourages us to be agents of positive change and transformation in the world, even in the smallest and seemingly insignificant ways.
3. The Parable of the Hidden Treasure: In this parable, a man stumbles upon a hidden treasure in a field and sells all he has to buy that field, knowing its true value. This parable emphasizes the incomparable worth of God’s kingdom. It challenges us to prioritize our relationship with God above all else, recognizing that the treasure of knowing Christ far outweighs any earthly possessions.
4. The Parable of the Pearl of Great Value: This parable challenges us to see the incredible love of God for each one of us.  If, as Jesus says, the Kingdom of God is like the merchant,  then WE must be the pearl for which God would willingly give it all. It challenges us to be loving toward ourselves and each other, knowing what incredible love God holds for us.
5. The Parable of the Dragnet: Jesus likens the kingdom of heaven to a net that catches fish of every kind. This parable highlights the inclusivity of God’s kingdom, where people from diverse backgrounds and experiences are welcomed and embraced. It challenges us to embrace unity and love for one another, recognizing that God’s grace is available to all.
6. The Parable of the Scribe: In the final parable, Jesus presents a scribe who is well-versed in the kingdom of heaven, bringing out treasures both old and new. This parable emphasizes the ongoing discovery and revelation of God’s truth. It calls us to continually study and delve deeper into God’s Word, being open to fresh insights and wisdom.

As we explore these parables of the kingdom, we uncover the richness of God’s reign and the profound truths it holds. These parables invite us to be active participants in God’s kingdom, nurturing our faith, seeking transformation, and valuing the priceless treasures of God’s truth and love.

Let us embrace the mystery and wonder of God’s kingdom, knowing that as we seek, we will find, and as we knock, the doors of understanding will be opened. May we continue to discover the hidden treasures of faith and share the beauty of God’s kingdom with the world around us.

In the Gospel of Matthew, we encounter the Parable of the Wheat and the Weeds—a profound story shared by Jesus that offers insights into the coexistence of various elements in the world. Jesus paints a picture of a farmer who sows good seed in their field, but an enemy comes during the night and sows weeds among the wheat. As both wheat and weeds grow together, the farmer decides to let them grow until the harvest, at which time the weeds will be separated and dealt with accordingly.

Later, Jesus explains the parable to their disciples. The wheat represents the righteous—the people of God who bear good fruit, while the weeds represent those who cause harm—the children of the evil one. The harvest symbolizes the end of the age, when the righteous will be gathered into God’s kingdom, and those causing harm will face judgment and consequences.

This parable touches on several essential truths that are relevant to our understanding of the world and our response to challenges:

1. The Coexistence of Diversity: The parable acknowledges that in this world, diversity and differing elements coexist. Just as the wheat and the weeds grow side by side in the field, so do the righteous and those causing harm exist together in society. This reality can sometimes be challenging, but it also reminds us that we live in a world with various perspectives and experiences.
2. The Patience and Wisdom of God: The farmer’s decision to let the wheat and weeds grow together until the harvest illustrates God’s patience and wisdom. God knows that hasty judgment can have unintended consequences, and God allows time for growth, transformation, and understanding. It is a reminder that God’s ways are beyond our comprehension, and Divine timing is perfect.
3. The Final Accountability: The parable speaks of the coming harvest, representing the final accountability when God will distinguish between the righteous and those causing harm. This assures us that justice will ultimately prevail, and those causing harm will be held accountable for their actions. It is a sobering reminder of the importance of our choices and the need to strive for righteousness.
4. Our Response: As followers of Christ, the parable challenges us to respond with wisdom, discernment, and compassion. While we live in a world with diverse perspectives and experiences, we are called to embody God’s love and grace. We are called to embrace diversity, seek reconciliation, and work towards a just and inclusive society.
5. Hope and Trust in God: The parable offers hope in the midst of challenges. It reminds us that God is in control, and Divine plan is one of redemption and transformation. In times of difficulties, we can find hope and strength in God’s sovereignty and the assurance that God is present and active in the world.

At first, we might look at this parable and see it filled with judgement, but there is incredible grace to be found in this parable.  The farmer does not send the servants out into the field to root out the weeds. The farmer allows them to grow together with the wheat, lest in pulling up weeds, wheat might also be torn up.  In ripping out the fruitless plants, God is unwilling to take a risk of even one fruitful one being pulled as well. 

God knows that things are often not what they seem in this world, and that sometimes, what we might think are weeds will turn out to be a fruitful stock. God so loves each and every seed that God has planted, that God will go to all ends to give those seeds the opportunity to produce.

God so passionately loves the “righteous” in this parable, that God makes extraordinary allowance even for those who might now seem to belong among the weeds to amend and change. In God’s world, there is always room for a new chance; a fresh start. In fact, God’s passionate love is lavished upon those weeds in the same way as the wheat.  The weeds get the place to live and grow just like the wheat, because God’s love and mercy is for them as well as the wheat.

As I said earlier, God knows that things are not always as they seem.  Life in this world is seldom so cut and dried as to be able to say that “This one is good. This one is evil.” All of us, at various times in life find ourselves on both sides of that balance. God’s grace to the weeds is God’s grace to us as well.

As we reflect on the Parable of the Wheat and the Weeds, let us remember that we are called to embrace diversity and seek understanding and reconciliation. Let us strive to be agents of God’s love and grace in a world with differing elements. May we hold onto the hope of God’s promises, knowing that Divine presence is with us as we navigate the challenges of this world.

In the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus shares a wonderful parable that continues to resonate with us today—the Parable of the Sower. Jesus paints a vivid picture of a sower scattering seed on different types of soil, symbolizing the diverse responses to the message of the kingdom of God. This parable challenges us to examine the condition of our hearts and encourages us to cultivate a fruitful heart that receives and bears the fruit of God’s Word.

Jesus begins by describing a sower who goes out to sow seed. As the seed falls on different types of soil, its fate varies. Some falls on the path and is devoured by birds, some on rocky ground and quickly withers, some among thorns and is choked, and some on good soil and produces a bountiful crop. Jesus later explains that the seed represents the message of the kingdom, while the different types of soil represent the conditions of people’s hearts.

The path symbolizes those who hear the message but fail to understand it, and the evil one snatches away what was sown in their hearts. The rocky ground represents those who receive the message with joy but quickly fall away when faced with tribulation or persecution. The thorny ground represents those who allow worldly cares and the deceitfulness of wealth to choke out the message, rendering it unfruitful. Finally, the good soil represents those who hear, understand, and bear abundant fruit, yielding a hundredfold, sixtyfold, or thirtyfold.

This parable teaches us profound truths about our response to God’s Word. It reminds us that the state of our hearts determines the fruitfulness of our lives. As we reflect on this parable, several key lessons emerge:

1. The Importance of Hearing: The sower scatters the seed, indicating the importance of hearing the message of the kingdom. It reminds us that we must be attentive and receptive to God’s Word, allowing it to penetrate our hearts.
2. The Condition of the Heart: The different types of soil illustrate the varying conditions of people’s hearts. It challenges us to examine our hearts and identify any hardness, shallowness, or distractions that hinder the growth of God’s Word in our lives.
3. Overcoming Obstacles: The rocky ground and thorny soil highlight the challenges and obstacles we may face in our faith journey. It calls us to persevere through trials, resist worldly distractions, and prioritize our relationship with God.
4. Bearing Fruit: The good soil serves as a model for us to aspire to—a heart that receives the message, understands it, and produces abundant fruit. It encourages us to cultivate a heart that is receptive, open, and transformed by God’s Word.

So, how do we cultivate a fruitful heart?

a. Prepare the Soil: We prepare the soil of our hearts by engaging in regular prayer, study of Scripture, and seeking the guidance of the Holy Spirit. We create space for God’s Word to take root and grow within us.

b. Remove the Obstacles: We must identify and address any obstacles that hinder our spiritual growth. This may involve letting go of worldly distractions, resolving conflicts, or seeking healing and restoration in our relationships.

c. Embrace the Process: Cultivating a fruitful heart is an ongoing process. It requires patience, perseverance, and a willingness to allow God to work in and through us. We trust that God is the ultimate gardener, nurturing and shaping us into vessels that bear abundant fruit.

d. Live Out God’s Word: Fruitfulness is not limited to personal spiritual growth but extends to the impact we have on others and the world around us. We bear fruit as we live out God’s Word, showing love, compassion, and justice to those around us.

As we reflect on the Parable of the Sower, let us examine the condition of our hearts and commit to cultivating a fruitful heart that receives and bears the fruit of God’s Word. May we be attentive to God’s message, remove obstacles, and embrace the transformative power of his Word in our lives. Let us strive to be like the good soil, yielding an abundant harvest for the glory of God.

In the Gospel of John, we encounter the figure of St. Thomas the Apostle, a disciple known for his moment of doubt and subsequent VERY profound faith. Thomas’ story, particularly the passage in John 20:24-29, offers us valuable insights into the complex nature of faith and the incredible power of encountering the risen Christ.

The passage begins with the disciples joyfully sharing the news of Jesus’ resurrection with Thomas, who was not present when Jesus appeared to them. Thomas, in a moment of skepticism, declares, “Unless I see the nail marks in his hands and put my finger where the nails were, and put my hand into his side, I will not believe” (John 20:25). His doubt reveals the depth of his need for tangible evidence, a desire to encounter the resurrected Christ with his own senses.

A week later, Jesus appears to the disciples again, specifically addressing Thomas. He invites Thomas to touch his wounds, to witness the reality of the resurrection. Overwhelmed with awe and conviction, Thomas exclaims, “My Lord and my God!” (John 20:28). In this profound declaration, Thomas’ doubt gives way to a profound affirmation of faith. He recognizes Jesus not only as a teacher or a prophet but as his Lord and God in the flesh.

Thomas’ doubt is not portrayed in a negative light but rather as an essential part of his journey toward a deep and authentic faith. His doubt allows him to wrestle with his beliefs, to seek understanding and assurance. It is through this wrestling match with faith that he encounters the risen Christ in a deeply personal and life-changing way.

Thomas’ story resonates with many of us who have grappled with doubts and questions on our own faith journeys. We may find ourselves seeking tangible evidence, longing for a personal encounter with Christ that solidifies our beliefs. Thomas reminds us that doubt, when approached with humility and openness, can lead to deeper and more authentic faith.

This passage also speaks to the compassionate nature of Jesus. Despite Thomas’ doubt, Jesus does not condemn him or turn him away. Instead, Jesus meets Thomas precisely where he is, offering him the evidence he seeks and inviting him into a new and deeper relationship. Jesus’ response to Thomas’ doubt reminds us that God is patient and understanding with our own questions and uncertainties as well.

The encounter between Jesus and Thomas serves as an invitation for us to bring our doubts and questions to God. It is an invitation to seek understanding and seek Christ’s presence in our lives. Like Thomas, we can be honest about our doubts and fears, knowing that God desires to meet us in those places and transform them into stronger faith.

Thomas’ story is not just a story of doubt; it is a story of profound belief and surrender. Through his doubt, Thomas emerges with an unwavering conviction, proclaiming Jesus as his Lord and God. His encounter with the risen Christ becomes a catalyst for a transformative faith that shapes the rest of his life and ministry.

As we reflect on the life and ministry of St. Thomas the Apostle, let us embrace the valuable lessons his story teaches us. Let us remember that doubt can be a catalyst for a deeper and more authentic faith. Let us approach our doubts with humility and seek God’s presence in the midst of uncertainty. And let us respond to Christ’s invitation to encounter him personally, trusting that in that encounter, our doubts will give way to a profound and transformative faith.

May we, like Thomas, encounter the risen Christ in our doubts and declare with conviction, “My Lord and my God!”

I’m sure that it’s not just me. Summer comes, and I find myself regularly entertaining friends and family around the barbecue on the back deck. As a person who really loves to grill and to use my smoker, these opportunities to open my home to others are moments of joy. There is seldom a weekend when I’m not out at the smoker preparing food for some of my summer guests. But true hospitality and generosity — the generosity and hospitality that Jesus calls us to in the Gosepl goes far beyond just welcoming our near and dear friends and loved ones. The hospitality called for by our faith is a truly radical hospitality.

The image above is the cover of a favourite book that I would highly recommend about the sort of radical hospitality that we are called to as followers of Christ.  Pick up a copy and give it a read.  It will challenge you and your community to grow beyond simply welcoming our friends to welcoming all.

This week’s Gospel speaks to the remarkable power of hospitality and generosity. In the Gospel, Jesus sheds light on the transformative nature of welcoming others, particularly those who represent Christ’s presence in our lives. This week’s passage challenges us to examine our attitudes towards hospitality and to embrace the profound blessings that come from acts of kindness and generosity.

Jesus declares, “Whoever welcomes you welcomes me, and whoever welcomes me welcomes the one who sent me”. These words highlight the interconnectedness between the disciples, Jesus, and God. By extension, they also highlight the interconnectedness between us, as Christ’s followers in our day and Christ. When we welcome and receive others, we are, in essence, welcoming and receiving Christ. Our acts of hospitality become a tangible expression of our love and devotion to Jesus.

Furthermore, Jesus goes on to affirm the blessings that come from extending hospitality and generosity. Jesus says, “Whoever gives even a cup of cold water to one of these little ones in the name of a disciple—truly I tell you, none of these will lose their reward”. This simple act of providing a cup of cold water is symbolic of any act of kindness, no matter how small or seemingly insignificant. Jesus assures us that even the smallest acts of generosity done in Christ’s name will be rewarded.

This passage challenges us to consider our attitudes towards hospitality and generosity. Are we willing to welcome others with open arms and open hearts? Are we ready to extend acts of kindness, even in the simplest forms, to those in need? In a world that often prioritizes self-interest and individualism, Jesus invites us to embrace a different way of living—one marked by hospitality, generosity, and selfless love.

Hospitality, at its core, is about creating a space of warmth, acceptance, and belonging. It involves reaching out to others, regardless of their background, status, or appearance, and making them feel welcomed and valued. It’s easy to offer that loving space to those that we know and love, but the call on our lives is to open our doors and our hearts to extend that warmth, acceptance and belonging to all whom we meet.  It is RADICAL hospitality; HOLY HOSPITALITY, because it calls us to create this space even for those we might otherwise not choose to associate ourselves with. It is an invitation to break down the walls of isolation and build bridges of connection and friendship. In our increasingly fragmented and polarized world, the practice of hospitality becomes absolutely essential.

Generosity, on the other hand, flows from a heart that recognizes and acknowledges all the blessings we have received. It is a response to God’s abundant grace in our lives. When we recognize that everything we have is ultimately a gift from God, we become more willing to share our resources, time, and talents with others. Generosity is not limited to material possessions but extends to our willingness to listen, to offer a helping hand, and to be present for others in their time of need.

As followers of Christ, we are called to be ambassadors of hospitality and generosity. We are called to mirror Christ’s love and acceptance to those we encounter. We are called to embody the values of compassion, empathy, and selflessness.

In a practical sense, this can mean inviting others into our homes, sharing a meal together, or engaging in acts of service within our communities. It can mean offering a listening ear, a word of encouragement, or a simple act of kindness to a stranger. The opportunities for hospitality and generosity are limitless, and we are invited to be attentive to the needs around us and to respond with love and compassion.

As we reflect on the words of Jesus this week, let’s be inspired to embrace the transformative power of hospitality and generosity. May our lives be characterized by a spirit of welcome, kindness, and selfless love. And may we experience the profound blessings that come from opening our hearts and lives to others, knowing that in doing so, we are not only welcoming them but also welcoming and serving Christ.

As Christians, we are called to navigate the tension between our identity as citizens of any particular nation and our ultimate allegiance to the kingdom of God. National holidays, such as Canada Day, provide an opportunity to reflect on how we approach and engage with these celebrations in the light of our faith. How can we honor our country while keeping our focus on God’s kingdom? How can we celebrate with gratitude and humility? In this blog post, I want to explore a Christian approach to Canada Day and other national celebrations.

1. Gratitude for God’s Blessings: As we commemorate Canada Day, we can begin by expressing gratitude for the blessings we enjoy as residents of this land. From the natural beauty of our landscapes to the diversity of our people, Canada is a place of abundance. As Christians, we recognize that every good and perfect gift comes from God (James 1:17). Our gratitude should be directed towards the Creator who has bestowed upon us the gift of this nation.
2. Humility in Remembering Our History: National celebrations also provide an opportunity to reflect on our country’s history. While we acknowledge and celebrate the achievements and progress, we must also humbly recognize the injustices and brokenness that have marked our past. As followers of Christ, we are called to confront the dark chapters of our history, seek truth and reconciliation, and work towards healing and justice. This includes acknowledging and lamenting the injustices committed against Indigenous peoples and marginalized communities and committing ourselves to a more inclusive and equitable society.
3. Prayer for the Nation: On Canada Day, we can set aside time to pray for our nation, its leaders, and its people. We can pray for wisdom and discernment for our political leaders, that they may govern with justice and integrity. We can pray for reconciliation and healing in areas of division and conflict. We can also lift up in prayer the vulnerable and marginalized in our society, advocating for their rights and well-being. Let us remember that our citizenship in God’s kingdom compels us to intercede on behalf of our nation.
4. Engaging in Acts of Service: As we celebrate our nation, let us embody the values of Christ by engaging in acts of service. We can participate in local community initiatives, volunteer our time and resources, and seek ways to make a positive impact in the lives of others. By demonstrating love, compassion, and generosity, we bear witness to the transformative power of Christ’s love in our communities.
5. Keeping Kingdom Priorities: While national celebrations are significant, we must always keep our ultimate allegiance to God’s kingdom. Our identity as citizens of heaven (Philippians 3:20) shapes our perspectives and priorities. As we engage in national celebrations, let us remember that our primary mission is to proclaim the Gospel, demonstrate God’s love, and seek justice and righteousness in all aspects of life. Our commitment to God’s kingdom should guide our attitudes, words, and actions during national celebrations as it should every day.
6. Embracing Diversity and Unity: Canada is known for its multiculturalism and diversity. As Christians, we are called to celebrate and embrace the beauty of diversity, recognizing that every person is made in the image of God. Let us reject discrimination, prejudice, and division, and strive to build a society where all are valued and respected. In doing so, we reflect the reconciling work of Christ and contribute to the flourishing of our nation.

As we approach Canada Day and other national celebrations, let us navigate the tension between our national identity and our commitment to God’s kingdom. May we celebrate with gratitude, humility, prayer, service, and a commitment to justice and unity. May our lives reflect the love and grace of Christ as we engage in our communities, seeking to be agents of transformation and ambassadors of God’s kingdom.