As part of the State of the Union address, it was announced that the United States was going to “build a pier” to provide a port of entry for emergency relief supplies. Gaza has no maritime port capable of supporting more than fishing boats – in other words, there is a single marina. Gaza has relied on true merchant shipping ports in Egypt and Israel. Those options are not and have not been available since the start of the war in Gaza. Continue reading
Today’s first reading is taken mid-scene from a key part of the Book of Exodus. We quickly pick up that the infamous “golden calf” incident has occurred and the Lord is not happy as he tells Moses: “I see how stiff-necked this people is. Let me alone, then, that my wrath may blaze up against them to consume them.” Can we blame God? Ever since our expulsion from the Garden of Eden the arc of humanity’s story has been one on increasing and spreading evil with God keeping things in check (e.g. scattering the people of Babel) while looking for a “few good men” – Noah, Abraham, Isaac, Joseph and now Moses. Looking for someone with whom to establish human leadership that could lead humanity back into the presence of God. Continue reading
This coming Sunday is the 5th Sunday of Lent. 27 “I am troubled now. Yet what should I say? ‘Father, save me from this hour’? But it was for this purpose that I came to this hour. 28 Father, glorify your name.” With the word “now” the focus returns to Jesus’ hour and St. John portrays a different Jesus than the one we encounter in Gethsemane as portrayed by the other gospel writers. Continue reading
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