Fr. Scott Steinkerchner, OP

Fr. Scott Steinkerchner, OP breaks open the readings for Epiphany Sunday. In the first reading it is prophesied that all the nations will go up to Jerusalem bringing gifts of gold and frankincense. In the Gospel, the magi follow the star to Jesus and give him gold, frankincense... and myrrh, an incense used in divine worship and in burying Jesus, noting his divinity and the sacrifice of his life. In the second reading, Paul reminds us that Jesus came for everyone, both Jews and gentiles.

Readings: Isaiah 60:1–6; Ephesians 3:2–3a, 5–6; Matthew 2:1–12

On this Feast of the Holy Family, we recall Jesus being lost for days and finally found in the Temple, seemingly oblivious to the worry he caused his parents. Every family has some degree of chaos as different members pull in different directions. There is not only one way to be a "perfect" family. Families and churches are best when they let each member be the best version of who they really are, and then together they create their own best version of family.

On this Feast of the Holy Innocents, we remember how, warned by an an angel in his dream, Joseph fled with his family in the middle of the night to escape Herod's deadly wrath. There is still genocide and evil in our world, and we still need to listen to God about when to stand and when to run.

In this extra A Word of Hope video, Fr. Scott Steinkerchner, OP, Br. Joseph Hilliker, OP and Fr. Dick LaPata, OP share about what gives them hope in the this lovely season of Hope.

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Jesus said that those who listen to him and acted on his word were like those who built their house on a firm foundation. While the foundation of a real house might be difficult to fix, the Good News is that we can strengthen the foundations of our faith every day by simply living out our faith. Thus we need not worry about our lack of faith or what might come if we simply live each day according to our faith.

Isaiah promised that he coming saviour will provide a rich feast for all peoples, not just for some. Jesus on the mountain miraculously healed all the sick and provided food for everyone. When we see small gains for some at the expense of others, know that this is not the promise, and work and pray and hope for more. To accept a second-rate saviour is to give up on the real one.