Ridge

He liked to come to this spot and swim. It was secluded and just a half hour drive from his condo. It was a hot but cloudy day. The sun stayed behind the clouds most of the time. He had come here after leaving the gym. It was the last Saturday in January. He thought …

Jesus Delivers Us

Inasmuch then as the children have partaken of flesh and blood, He Himself likewise shared in the same, that through death He might destroy him who had the power of death, that is, the devil, and release those who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage  (Hebrews 2:14-16) We see that Jesus came to destroy the …

Sister Caterina, The Pope & a Decision

Photo by cottonbro on Pexels.com Through the parted curtains leading to the sanctuary, Father Morelli could see Sister Caterina standing there. An hour ago he had done the weekly midday Mass and after the visitors had left, he remained there at the altar, praying and thanking God for helping him to get through the service. …

How Temptation Works

Photo by Agafonova Photo on Pexels.com "God blesses those who patiently endure testing and temptation. Afterward they will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.  And remember, when you are being tempted, do not say, “God is tempting me.” God is never tempted to do wrong, and he never tempts …

Persecution

Image by Adobe Stock "Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven" - Matthew 5:10, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION 123RF Photo "In fact, everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted" - 2 TIMOTHY 3:12, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION iStock Image "God will …

Hank Explains Resurrection

"Hank, I have a question about resurrection." "What's the question?" "If we go straight to heaven when we die, what's the point of the resurrection?" "That's a very good question, Ede. I'm happy you asked it. It is very clear in the Word of God, that there are two resurrections. The first one is of …

Ruth’s Visitor

Ruth was in the garden having a cup of tea. It was a beautiful day. Summer was drawing to a close and soon the cold weather would be there. She wished the warm weather would last. She dreaded having to put on winter coat, scarf, hat, gloves and boots. She hated the snow when it …

Victory Over Death

Photo by cottonbro on Pexels.com "Listen, I will tell you a mystery: We will not all sleep, but we will all be changed—in a moment, in the blinking of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised imperishable, and we will be changed.  For this perishable body must put …

A Teacher’s Confession

Photo by cottonbro on Pexels.com "Good Morning, father." "Good Morning." She quickly made the sign of the cross before saying, "Bless me father, for I have sinned. It has been five months since my last confession. These are my sins.” Father Culpepper listened as she confessed her sins briefly and clearly. "Father, I'm truly sorry …

Father Kiesler’s Visitor

Father Kiesler was in the office reading a copy of The Spirit of the Liturgy by Joseph Ratzinger (Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI). His mother gave it to him when he visited her on Mother's Day. He was greeted enthusiastically first by his younger sister, Katja and then, his mother who was beside herself with delight. …