David Tracy, a Roman Catholic theologian, has said, “There is never an authentic disclosure of truth which is not also transformative.”  What he means, at least in part, is that the Christian claim on ‘truth’ is hollow if it remains … Continue reading →

It’s our human tendency to want to know.  The serpent, long ago, offered knowledge of good and evil.  And ever since, we’ve been judging who’s in and who’s out, who gets it and who doesn’t, who believes the right things … Continue reading →

“To love is to care, to care is to give ourselves, and giving ourselves means being willing to hurt. In love we fall from our pride, from our sense of mastery and separateness, from whatever towers of false safety we … Continue reading →

I remember being very suspicious in my first seminary Psychology course.  I was told the psychologists know nothing of theology or the Bible, and only lead one down the path of secular humanism and self-reliance.  It took learning that John … Continue reading →

Lent invites honest self-reflection. Renowned 20th century psychoanalyst Carl Jung tells the story of a patient who came to him for therapy.  This patient was frustrated with his job, his work colleagues, and his relationships.  Jung said, “Go home this … Continue reading →

I have to ask myself regularly, “Am I not THAT person, the person Jesus came to indict?” After all, I am the religious professional.  I have the degrees.  I’ve been approved by the club.  And much of the time, I … Continue reading →

When I consider that Jesus, on that celebrated “Palm Sunday” many centuries ago, walked straight into hell, I shutter.  That this Jesus called us to love our enemies, that he delivered us from evil by invading it…this puzzles me.  It … Continue reading →

A thought on the eve of Palm Sunday and this week’s New Passover journey… Brain Walsh and Sylvia Keesmaat write, “This language of inheritance, forgiveness and rescue from one empire in order to be freed in another kingdom harks back … Continue reading →

  From Thomas Merton’s great work New Seeds of Contemplation Some men seem to think that a saint cannot possibly take a natural interest in anything created.  They imagine that any form of spontaneity or enjoyment is a sinful gratification … Continue reading →

  “Listen to your life. See it for the fathomless mystery it is. In the boredom and pain of it, no less than in the excitement and gladness: touch, taste, smell your way to the holy and hidden heart of … Continue reading →