

Letters From Home
St. Paul Center for Biblical Theology
Letters From Home is the Daily Scripture Reflections podcast from the St. Paul Center. Our commentators, Dr. Scott Hahn, Dr. John Bergsma, Dr. Shane Owens, Dr. Jeffrey Morrow, Ms. Joan Watson, and Mr. Clement Harrold reflect upon the readings from Daily Mass. Start your day with the Word of God begin your daily devotion through Sacred Scripture every day.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jan 20, 2026 • 9min
Tuesday of the Second Week in Ordinary Time - Dr. Shane Owens
The St. Paul Center's daily scripture reflections from the Mass for Tuesday of the Second Week in Ordinary Time by Dr. Shane Owens.
Ordinary Weekday/ Fabian, Pope, Martyr/ Sebastian, Martyr
First Reading: First Samuel 16: 1-13
Responsorial Psalm: Psalms 89: 20, 21-22, 27-28
Alleluia: Ephesians 1: 17-18
Gospel: Mark 2: 23-28
Learn more about the Mass at www.stpaulcenter.com
If you’ve been wanting to grow in your knowledge of sacred Scripture or learn how to share God's Word with others, check out Dr. John Bergsma’s weekly show, The Word of the Lord, where Dr. Bergsma unpacks the Sunday mass readings and carefully guides the faithful to a deeper understanding of salvation history.
Sign up for your 30-day free trial today at stpaulcenter.com/memberships

Jan 19, 2026 • 16min
Monday of the Second Week in Ordinary Time - Dr. Scott Hahn
Scott Hahn explores the significance of obedience through the story of King Saul, warning against partial compliance. He highlights the importance of heartfelt fidelity over mere ritual in spiritual practices. Delving into Psalm 50, Hahn contrasts true covenant commitment with external rituals. He discusses Jesus' metaphor of the bridegroom in Mark 2, linking it to the Eucharist and the transformation into a new covenant. Concluding with a heartfelt prayer, he seeks God's guidance for transformed, loving hearts.

Jan 17, 2026 • 10min
Saturday of the First Week in Ordinary Time - Mr. Clement Harrold
The St. Paul Center's daily scripture reflections from the Mass for Saturday of the First Week in Ordinary Time by Mr. Clement Harrold.
Anthony, Abbot Obligatory Memorial
First Reading: First Samuel 9: 1-4, 17-19; 10: 1
Responsorial Psalm: Psalms 21: 2-3, 4-5, 6-7
Alleluia: Luke 4: 18
Gospel: Mark 2: 13-17
Learn more about the Mass at www.stpaulcenter.com
If you’ve been wanting to grow in your knowledge of sacred Scripture or learn how to share God's Word with others, check out Dr. John Bergsma’s weekly show, The Word of the Lord, where Dr. Bergsma unpacks the Sunday mass readings and carefully guides the faithful to a deeper understanding of salvation history.
Sign up for your 30-day free trial today at stpaulcenter.com/memberships

Jan 16, 2026 • 13min
Friday of the First Week in Ordinary Time - Dr. John Bergsma
Dive into the profound theme of Israel's desire for a human king, revealing their rejection of God's rule. Explore Samuel's warnings about the costs of kingship, from taxes to conscription. Discover how Jesus' miraculous healing of the paralytic illustrates His divine authority and the liberating power of confession. Reflect on the responsibilities of Christian freedom and the call to follow the Spirit, even amidst challenges. This insightful discussion invites listeners to deepen their understanding of faith and spiritual liberty.

Jan 15, 2026 • 10min
Thursday of the First Week in Ordinary Time - Ms. Joan Watson
The St. Paul Center's daily scripture reflections from the Mass for Thursday of the First Week in Ordinary Time by Ms. Joan Watson.
Ordinary Weekday
First Reading: First Samuel 4: 1-11
Responsorial Psalm: Psalms 44: 10-11, 14-15, 24-25
Alleluia: Matthew 4: 23
Gospel: Mark 1: 40-45
Learn more about the Mass at www.stpaulcenter.
If you’ve been wanting to grow in your knowledge of sacred Scripture or learn how to share God's Word with others, check out Dr. John Bergsma’s weekly show, The Word of the Lord, where Dr. Bergsma unpacks the Sunday mass readings and carefully guides the faithful to a deeper understanding of salvation history.
Sign up for your 30-day free trial today at stpaulcenter.com/memberships

Jan 14, 2026 • 9min
Wednesday of the First Week in Ordinary Time - Dr. John Bergsma
Dr. John Bergsma delves into the significance of hearing God's voice, drawing lessons from Samuel's calling. He emphasizes the importance of quiet prayer, showcasing how Jesus prioritized solitude to discern His path amidst busy ministry. The conversation encourages listeners to embrace daily prayer to gain clarity in their own vocations. Bergsma beautifully links these themes to personal spiritual growth, inspiring a deeper engagement with sacred Scripture and the practice of prayer.

Jan 13, 2026 • 11min
Tuesday of the First Week in Ordinary Time - Dr. Shane Owens
The St. Paul Center's daily scripture reflections from the Mass for Tuesday of the First Week in Ordinary Time by Dr. Shane Owens.
Ordinary Weekday/ Hilary, Bishop, Doctor
First Reading: First Samuel 1: 9-20
Responsorial Psalm: First Samuel 2: 1, 4-5, 6-7, 8abcd
Alleluia: First Thessalonians 2: 13
Gospel: Mark 1: 21-28
Learn more about the Mass at www.stpaulcenter.com
If you’ve been wanting to grow in your knowledge of sacred Scripture or learn how to share God's Word with others, check out Dr. John Bergsma’s weekly show, The Word of the Lord, where Dr. Bergsma unpacks the Sunday mass readings and carefully guides the faithful to a deeper understanding of salvation history.
Sign up for your 30-day free trial today at stpaulcenter.com/memberships

Jan 12, 2026 • 16min
Monday of the First Week in Ordinary Time - Dr. Scott Hahn
Dr. Scott Hahn delves into Hannah's poignant prayer and her role as a precursor to Mary, highlighting her barrenness and the divine blessing of Samuel. He connects Psalm 116's themes of thanksgiving to the Eucharist, emphasizing its significance in Jesus' teachings. The discussion shifts to Mark 1, where Hahn reflects on Jesus calling disciples like Andrew and Simon, urging the faithful to embrace their role as 'fishers of men.' Ultimately, he encourages listeners to deepen their discipleship and trust in God's plans through prayer.

Jan 10, 2026 • 9min
The Saturday After Epiphany - Mr. Clement Harrold
The St. Paul Center's daily scripture reflections from the Mass for Saturday after Epiphany by Mr. Clement Harrold.
Christmas Weekday
First Reading: First John 5: 14-21
Responsorial Psalm: Psalms 149: 1-2, 3-4, 5 and 6a and 9b
Alleluia: Matthew 4: 16
Gospel: John 3: 22-30
Learn more about the Mass at www.stpaulcenter.com
If you’ve been wanting to grow in your knowledge of sacred Scripture or learn how to share God's Word with others, check out Dr. John Bergsma’s weekly show, The Word of the Lord, where Dr. Bergsma unpacks the Sunday mass readings and carefully guides the faithful to a deeper understanding of salvation history.
Sign up for your 30-day free trial today at stpaulcenter.com/memberships

Jan 9, 2026 • 11min
The Friday After Epiphany - Dr. John Bergsma
Dr. John Bergsma explores the significance of the Christmas Weekday readings and the essence of faith through scripture. He discusses how belief in Jesus as the Son of God leads to victory over worldly challenges. The connection between baptism, crucifixion, and sacraments is unveiled, highlighting our identity as God's children. Bergsma emphasizes the assurance of eternal life through faith and sacramental practice. Lastly, he links the healing of the leper to the sacrament of reconciliation, showcasing the power of confession and absolution.


