Br. Ed Van Merrienboer, OP reminds us that life is not perfect here in this world, so it is important to allow ourselves to mourn its imperfection, and honor that by periodically taking on penitential practices.
Speaking of the call of the apostle Matthew, Br. Ed Van Merrienboer, OP notes how God sees talent in us all that we don't see, and God trusts us and calls us forth to use these hidden talents for the sake of the Kingdom.
Br. Edward Van Merrienboer, OP speaks about Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati as "the man of the Beatitudes" because he embodied in his life care for those who suffer, a key dynamic in the Beatitudes.
Br. Ed Van Merrienboer, OP talks about living in the time in between when Jesus was resurrected but before he returns, which has an end in living with Jesus, but is a long, indeterminate time.
Br. Ed Van Merrienboer, OP, following the example of St. Paul, gives advice about how to reach out to a family member who has fallen away from the faith by finding common ground.
Commenting on the development of deacons in the early church community, Br. Edward Van Merrienboer, OP asks us to pray to God for acceptance of new ministries in the Church today.
Hearing how the early church joyfully suffered persecution, Br. Edward Van Merrienboer, OP asks us to reach out in solidarity to churches that suffer persecution today in places such as Nicaragua.
Br. Ed Van Merrienboer, OP celebrates the Annunciation of the Lord, reminding us of how our salvation only came about because of Mary's "yes" to God's invitation, and how we should likewise say "yes" to God's invitation in our own lives.
Br. Ed Van Merrienboer, OP notes the controversies surrounding Jesus—Some are impressed by his miracles while others see his interpretation of Judaism as a threat—and challenges all of us not to judge others too quickly, but to celebrate the good works they do.
