Sunday Gospel Reflections

King Ahaz refuses God's sign, but Isaiah prophesies anyway: a virgin shall conceive Emmanuel. Fr. Hezekias and Annie explore Joseph as David's rightful heir, why God speaks in dreams, and how the Incarnation extends to us—we become the presence of Christ.

Isaiah prophesied the blind would see and lame would walk. John the Baptist asks from prison: Are you the one? Fr. Hezekias and Annie unpack Jesus' answer, navigate the Herod family, and explain why Advent calls us to patience, fasting, not feasting.

Annie Mitchell, a regular contributor, dives deep into the prophetic messages of Advent alongside Fr. Hezekias. They explore Isaiah's vision of a shoot from Jesse's stump, connecting it to the promise of salvation through Christ. The conversation shifts to John the Baptist's role and attire, linking him to Elijah’s prophetic heritage. With a focus on repentance and preparation, they highlight how Advent serves as a time for spiritual renewal, drawing insights from Scripture to inspire true transformation.

Fr. Hezekias and Annie unpack the First Sunday of Advent: Isaiah's prophecy of swords to plowshares, Jesus' urgent call to stay awake, and what it really means to be "left behind." Wake up & prepare for Christ's coming through prayer, fasting, & charity.

Fr. Hezekias and Annie explore David's anointing as king, Jesus' enthronement on the cross, and Mary's queenship, examining how Christ reigns through self-giving love and calls us as Christians to participate in His royal mission of pouring out our lives

Fr. Hezekias and Annie explore Malachi's prophecy of the Sun of Justice, Jesus' teaching on Jerusalem's destruction, and Paul's call to faithful work, examining how Advent prepares us for Christ's coming through prayer, fasting, and generous giving.

Fr. Hezekias and Annie explore Ezekiel's vision of living water flowing from the temple, Jesus cleansing the temple, and Paul's teaching that we are God's building, examining how the dedication of St. John Lateran celebrates the Church as living temple.

Fr. Hezekias and Annie explore eternal life through Wisdom, Psalm 23, and Jesus' promise of resurrection, examining the communion of saints, sacred relics, and intercessory prayer for the faithful departed on All Souls Day.

Fr. Hezekias and Annie explore why God loves the poor and lowly through Jesus' parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector, examining what true humility means as preparation for Advent and Christ's coming.

Fr. Hezekias and Annie explore persevering faith through Moses defeating Amalek with outstretched arms prefiguring the cross, Jesus' parable of the persistent widow, and Paul's charge to preach urgently, examining intercessory prayer and witness.