Seeing Clearly: When Encountering Jesus Changes Everything

Have you ever felt unseen? Or perhaps misunderstood, judged by circumstances you didn't choose? Maybe you feel like you're stumbling in the dark, unsure of the path forward, unable to clearly see the truth of your situation or even yourself? That feeling of blindness, whether literal or spiritual, is something many of us wrestle with.

Today, let's turn our attention to John chapter 9, specifically verses 1, 6-9, 13-17, and 34-38. It’s a powerful account of Jesus encountering a man born blind, an encounter that does more than just restore physical sight – it opens eyes to profound spiritual truths.

As the story begins, Jesus sees a man blind from birth (v. 1). Notice that – Jesus sees him. Right away, we see Jesus looking past the surface, past the societal questions of why this man was suffering, and towards a demonstration of God's power. Jesus then performs a very earthy, tangible act: He spits on the ground, makes mud, and applies it to the man's eyes, instructing him to wash in the Pool of Siloam (v. 6-7). The man obeys, and the result is immediate and miraculous: he can see!

Imagine the scene: a man who has known only darkness suddenly sees the world. But this miracle stirs up more than just wonder; it creates confusion and division.

What can this remarkable encounter teach us?

1. Identity Questioned, Reality Affirmed: The man's own neighbors aren't sure it's him! (v. 8-9). Some say, "Isn't this the same man who used to sit and beg?" Others doubt, "No, he only looks like him." But the man himself is clear: "I am the man." His encounter with Jesus gave him not just sight, but a certainty about his own experience, even when others doubted. When Jesus truly touches our lives, our reality changes, even if others struggle to recognize the transformation.
   
   

2. Focus on the How, Missing the Who: The man is brought to the Pharisees, the religious leaders. They get caught up in how he was healed, particularly the fact that Jesus did this on the Sabbath (v. 13-16). This leads to division among them. Some see the rule-breaking and declare Jesus a sinner. Others, however, ask a crucial question: "How can a sinner perform such signs?" They are grappling with the evidence right before them, evidence that challenges their preconceived notions. How often do we get stuck on the 'rules' or the 'how,' potentially missing the divine 'Who' standing right before us?
   
   

3. Simple Testimony Amidst Complexity: When pressed about Jesus, the healed man gives a straightforward answer based on his experience: "He is a prophet." (v. 17). He doesn't have all the theological answers, but he knows what happened to him and recognizes the divine nature of the one who healed him. Sometimes, our most powerful witness is simply stating the change Jesus has made in our lives.
   
   

4. Rejection by the World, Reception by Jesus: The religious authorities, blinded by their own rigid interpretations and unwillingness to see the truth, ultimately dismiss the man's testimony and "throw him out" (v. 34). Being rejected for acknowledging Jesus is a harsh reality, both then and now. But the story doesn't end there. Jesus hears about the rejection and intentionally seeks the man out (v. 35). This is beautiful: when the world pushes us away because of our faith, Jesus draws near.
   
   

5. The Crucial Question and True Sight: Jesus asks the pivotal question: "Do you believe in the Son of Man?" (v. 35). The man, demonstrating openness and a desire for truth, asks who that is so he can believe (v. 36). Jesus reveals Himself directly: "You have now seen him; in fact, he is the one speaking with you." (v. 37). This is the climax – the opening of spiritual eyes. The man’s response is immediate faith and worship: "Lord, I believe," and he worshiped him (v. 38). Physical sight was just the beginning; true sight was recognizing and worshiping Jesus.
   
   

This man's journey from literal and spiritual darkness into brilliant light reminds us that encountering Jesus is transformative. It challenges perceptions, forces choices, and ultimately leads to seeing the world, ourselves, and God in a completely new way.

How can we move towards clearer spiritual sight?

• Acknowledge Our Need: Recognize the areas where we might be spiritually blind or clinging to assumptions that block the light of Christ.

• Be Honest About Our Experience: Like the healed man, simply state what Jesus has done for you, even if it seems simple.

• Ask Jesus to Reveal Himself: Approach Him with an open heart, asking Him, "Who are you, Lord?" Be ready to see Him more clearly.

• Don't Fear Rejection: If standing for Jesus leads to being "cast out" by some, trust that Jesus Himself will seek you out and draw you closer.

• Respond in Faith and Worship: When Jesus reveals Himself, let your response, like the man born blind, be belief and adoration.

The man healed in John 9 received more than just physical vision; he received spiritual insight and a personal relationship with the Light of the World. May we too seek Jesus, allowing Him to open our eyes to His truth, His identity, and the incredible reality of His love, leading us from any darkness into His marvelous light.

Finding Living Water: Where True Belonging Begins

Feeling parched? Not just physically, but deep down in your soul? Like something vital is missing, and no amount of worldly "refreshments" can quench that thirst? I think we've all been there.

Today, let's dive into John 4:5-42, a story about Jesus and a Samaritan woman at a well. It's a story that speaks to that deep, soul-level thirst we all experience, and points us to the only source of true satisfaction.

Jesus, tired and thirsty, sits by Jacob’s well. A woman, an outsider in her own community, comes to draw water. What follows is a conversation that shatters social barriers and reveals a profound truth: Jesus offers "living water."

Think about that image: living water. Not stagnant, temporary water that leaves you thirsty again, but a spring that wells up to eternal life. It’s a powerful metaphor for the spiritual nourishment we crave.

What does this "living water" mean for us?

• It transcends our circumstances: Just like the Samaritan woman, we all carry burdens, past hurts, and feelings of isolation. Jesus meets us right where we are, offering a fresh start, regardless of our history.

• It reveals our true selves: The conversation at the well forces the woman to confront her past. Jesus sees her, truly sees her, and offers her grace and forgiveness. He does the same for us.

• It connects us to something greater: This living water isn't just about personal satisfaction; it leads to worship and a desire to share the good news with others. The woman leaves her water jar and runs back to her village, proclaiming Jesus as the Messiah.

• It creates true community: The people of the village, initially skeptical, come to believe in Jesus because of the woman’s testimony. They experience the living water for themselves, creating a community of believers.

This story reminds us that our deepest longings aren't met by the fleeting pleasures of this world. We search for belonging, acceptance, and purpose, but those things are ultimately found in Jesus.

How can we tap into this living water?

• Engage in honest conversations with Jesus: Like the woman at the well, bring your burdens, questions, and doubts to Him. He listens.

• Be open to His revelation: Allow Him to reveal your true self, your needs, and your potential.

• Share your experience: Don’t keep the living water to yourself. Let your encounter with Jesus overflow into the lives of others.

• Seek out true community: Find a place where you can connect with fellow believers and experience the refreshing flow of God’s love together.

Just as the Samaritan woman found her true belonging at the well, we too can find our satisfaction in Jesus. He is the source of living water, the spring that never runs dry. Let’s drink deeply and allow His love to transform our lives, and overflow to those around us.

Our True Citizenship: Anchored in Heaven

Feeling a little… out of place? Ever have those moments where you look around and think, "This doesn't quite feel like home?" Maybe it's the constant buzz of social media, the relentless pursuit of the next big thing, or just the general sense that something's missing. Yeah, me too.

It's easy to get caught up in the here and now, to let the noise of the world define our reality. But then, a verse like Philippians 3:20-4:1 shines a light, reminding us of a deeper truth. It says, "But our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, who will transform our lowly body to be like his glorious body, by the power that enables him even to subject all things to himself.1 Therefore, my brothers, whom I love and long for, my joy and crown, stand firm thus in the Lord, my beloved."2

"Our citizenship is in heaven." Let that sink in for a moment. In a world that often feels chaotic and uncertain, we have a permanent address, a secure belonging, in God's kingdom. It's like having a secret, unwavering anchor in the midst of a storm.

Think about it:

• In moments of anxiety: When the news cycle spins out of control, or life throws us curveballs, we can remember that our ultimate security isn't tied to earthly circumstances.

• In times of temptation: When we're tempted to compromise our values or chase fleeting pleasures, we can recall that our true identity is rooted in Christ.

• In seasons of grief: When we experience loss or heartbreak, we can find comfort in the promise of a future where our "lowly body" will be transformed into "his glorious body."

Paul's words aren't just a theological concept; they're a lifeline. He's saying, "Hold on, friends. This isn't the end of the story. There's more to come, a glorious future waiting for us." And that future is secured by Jesus, our Savior, who will return to make all things new.

But it doesn't stop there. Paul urges us to "stand firm thus in the Lord." How do we do that in our daily lives?

• Prioritize Prayer and Scripture: Regularly connect with our heavenly Father through prayer and immerse ourselves in His Word.

• Cultivate Community: Surround ourselves with fellow believers who can encourage and support us on our journey.

• Live with Purpose: Seek to live out our faith in practical ways, reflecting the love and grace of Christ to those around us.

• Focus on the eternal: Try to keep your eyes on the eternal rewards, and not the temporary rewards of this world.

It's about living with a heavenly perspective, even while we navigate the challenges of earthly life. It's about remembering that we're pilgrims on a journey, heading towards our true home.

As we journey together, let's hold onto the hope that Philippians 3:20-4:1 offers. Let's stand firm in the Lord, knowing that our citizenship is secure, and that our Savior will return to bring us home. And in the meantime, let's live as citizens of heaven, bringing a little bit of that heavenly kingdom into our everyday lives.

Are You Seeing Clearly? A Mindful Look at Luke 6:39-45

Okay, let's be honest, we've all been there. You know, that moment when you're convinced someone else is the problem. You're mentally listing their flaws, dissecting their mistakes, and feeling that surge of judgment rise within you. Maybe it's a friend's social media post that rubs you the wrong way, or a family member's annoying habit that pushes your buttons. Whatever it is, you're locked in, laser-focused on the "speck" in their eye.

But here's the thing: Jesus throws us a curveball in Luke 6:39-45. He gently reminds us, "Why do you see the speck that is in your brother's eye, but do not notice the log that is in your own eye?" Ouch. It's so easy to get caught up in judging others, isn't it? We become hyper-aware of their shortcomings while conveniently overlooking our own.

Think about it:

• In our relationships: We criticize our spouse's messiness while ignoring our own tendency to procrastinate.

• At work: We judge a colleague's presentation skills while forgetting the time we completely missed a deadline.

• In our communities: We whisper about someone's parenting choices while failing to acknowledge our own struggles.

It's human nature, right? But Jesus calls us to something deeper, something more mindful. He challenges us to turn that critical gaze inward, to honestly examine the "logs" in our own eyes before pointing out the "specks" in others.

This isn't about self-condemnation or wallowing in guilt. It's about cultivating self-awareness, humility, and compassion. It's about recognizing that we're all on a journey, all works in progress, all in need of grace.

And here's the beautiful thing: when we shift our focus from judgment to self-reflection, something amazing happens. We start to see others with more understanding and empathy. We become less quick to criticize and more willing to extend grace. We begin to recognize that those "specks" we're so focused on are often just reflections of our own unhealed wounds.

So, how do we practically live this out?

• Daily Examen: Take a few minutes each day to reflect on your interactions with others. Where did you judge? Where did you fall short?

• Practice Forgiveness: Extend forgiveness to yourself and others. Remember that we all make mistakes.

• Cultivate Gratitude: Focus on the good in yourself and others. Celebrate the small victories and appreciate the unique gifts each person brings.

• Pray for Discernment: Ask the Holy Spirit to help you see clearly, to distinguish between the "specks" and the "logs," and to guide you on the path of love and compassion.

As we journey together as mindful Catholics, let's strive to live out the message of Luke 6:39-45. Let's choose self-reflection over judgment, forgiveness over condemnation, and love over fear. And let's remember that in the eyes of God, we are all perfectly imperfect, beautifully broken, and infinitely loved.

Ditch the Hamster Wheel: Find True Abundance

Let's talk about something real. Something that gnaws at all of us, no matter how much we pretend it doesn't. We chase, we strive, we hustle… for what exactly? Another promotion? A bigger house? That designer handbag that'll be "so last season" in six months? We're on this hamster wheel of more, more, MORE, and yet, how often do we actually feel… full?

I was reflecting on today’s Gospel reading Luke 6:17, 20-26, and it hit me like a ton of bricks. Jesus is talking about blessedness. But it's not the blessedness we're used to hearing about. He's talking about the poor being blessed. The hungry. The weeping. Wait, what?!

Hold on, before you click away thinking I've lost my mind, hear me out. He's not saying poverty is some glamorous ideal. He's talking about a poverty of spirit. A recognition, deep down, that we don't have all the answers. That we need something bigger than ourselves. We need Him. That's where the real abundance comes from.

Think about it. When you're clinging to every penny, terrified of losing what you have, are you truly free? Or are you shackled by fear? When you're constantly chasing the next dopamine hit, the next fleeting pleasure, are you truly satisfied? Or are you left feeling empty, craving more?

This isn't about giving up everything you own and living in a cave (unless that's your jam, then rock on!). It's about mindful awareness. It's about taking a breath, stepping off that hamster wheel, and asking yourself some tough questions.

• What am I truly hungry for? Is it the external validation, the fleeting moments of glory, or something deeper, something that nourishes my soul?

• Where do I find my consolation? Is it in the stuff I own, the image I project, or in the connection I have with something greater than myself?

• Am I living a life of purpose, or am I just going through the motions? Am I contributing to the world in a meaningful way, or am I just focused on my own little bubble?

Now, I'm not going to tell you the answers. That's your job. But I will tell you this: True abundance, the kind that fills you up from the inside out, isn't found in the external world. It's found in our faith in God.

Here are a few things you can do right now to start cultivating that inner abundance:

• Practice gratitude. Seriously, take a few minutes each day to appreciate the good things in your life, no matter how small. It shifts your focus from what you lack to what you have.

• Connect with something bigger than yourself. Whether that's through prayer, meditation, spending time in nature, or volunteering, find something that connects you to the divine, to the universe, to something beyond your own little world.

• Serve others. Get outside of yourself and focus on the needs of others. You'll be amazed at how much joy you receive in return.

This isn't some fluffy, feel-good, self-help nonsense. This is about reclaiming your life. It's about breaking free from the chains of materialism and finding true, lasting fulfillment. It's about living a life of purpose, a life of meaning, a life of abundance.

So, I challenge you. Step off the hamster wheel. Take a deep breath. And ask yourself: What am I really hungry for?

Let me know what you discover in the comments below. I'm genuinely curious.

Finding the Extraordinary in Your Ordinary

I recently reflected on this weekend’s Gospel reading, Luke 2:22-40, and it struck me how relevant it is today. It explores hope, faith, and the incredible power that lies within each of us. It's about human potential, about finding the extraordinary within your ordinary life.

We have Mary and Joseph, two regular parents dealing with a newborn. Sound familiar? Sleepless nights, diaper changes, the whole ordeal. But they're also carrying this immense responsibility – raising the Son of God. Talk about pressure!

But here's the key: they show up. They follow through. They present their son at the temple, just as they were supposed to. They were present to the task at hand.

Then we meet Simeon and Anna, two individuals who dedicated their lives to something bigger than themselves. Simeon, waiting for the Messiah, his whole life fueled by this burning hope. Anna, a prophetess, practically living in the temple, radiating faith.

These people weren't superheroes. They were just like you and me. They likely had doubts, fears, and probably bad hair days. But they had something more: unwavering belief and a commitment to their purpose.

Simeon's story hits me hard. He was promised he wouldn't die before seeing the Messiah. Imagine that! He held onto that promise, that hope, through thick and thin. And when he finally holds baby Jesus, he's overcome with peace. He can finally rest, knowing he's witnessed the fulfillment of God's promise.

How many of us are waiting for something? That promotion, that relationship, that breakthrough? Simeon teaches us that the journey is just as important as the destination. It's about having faith, staying present, and trusting that things will unfold as they should.

This reminds me of a time a few years ago when I was preparing for my first best man speech. Hundreds of people, huge expectations, and the pressure was crushing. I started to doubt myself, to question if I was the right person, if I could deliver. Fear started to creep in, and my energy plummeted. By focusing on my breath, I was able to tap into my inner strength and reconnect with my purpose. Getting through that speech was one of the most powerful experiences of my life.

Mindfulness, being present, it's a superpower! It's about quieting the noise in your head and connecting with your inner wisdom. Just like Simeon found peace by holding Jesus, you can find peace by trusting in God’s presence in your own life.

And then there's Anna. This woman was a force of nature! She recognized Jesus and immediately started spreading the word. She didn't keep that joy, that revelation, to herself. She shared it with the world.

What are you passionate about? What lights you up? Don't keep it bottled up inside. Share it! Your passion, your energy, they're contagious. You have the power to inspire others, just like Anna.

So, here's the takeaway: You don't need to be a saint or a superhero to make a difference. Mary, Joseph, Simeon, and Anna were ordinary people who embraced their purpose and lived extraordinary lives.

You have that same power within you. Embrace your purpose. Trust in the Lord and have faith in the journey. Be present. Share your light!

Overcome Feeling Lost: Find Purpose & Meaning Today

Ever feel like you're just going through the motions, not really living your life to the fullest? I know I have. It's like being stuck on autopilot, scrolling through social media, binge-watching shows, but not really feeling alive. We are not present.

I was talking to my friend, Lindsay, the other day. She's a successful accountant, has a nice apartment, and from the outside, it looks like she has it all. But she confessed to me that she felt empty inside. "I'm working all the time," she said, "but for what? I'm not even sure I'm making a difference." She was so focused on climbing the corporate ladder that she'd lost sight of what truly mattered to her. She was drifting, not really steering her own life. Lindsay is not alone. Many people feel the same way.

And that's where a lot of us are, right? We get so caught up in the daily grind that we forget to ask ourselves the big questions: What's my purpose? What am I passionate about? What kind of impact do I want to make? Deep down, we all have incredible potential, but it's easy to get stuck in a rut. We end up just drifting along instead of steering our own ship.

But here's the good news: we can find a sense of purpose and direction that will absolutely transform our lives. This comes from figuring out what truly matters to us and connecting with something bigger than ourselves.

Let's talk about this Sunday’s Gospel reading from Luke! Now, Luke was like the ultimate truth-seeker. He didn't just take things at face value when it came to the stories about Jesus. He went out and interviewed people who had actually met Jesus, witnessed His miracles, and heard Him teach. He was determined to get to the bottom of it all. Like a detective, he gathered all the evidence he could, building a solid foundation for his faith. He wanted to be sure, just like those scribes that took extra care and time to accurately copy the scripture word for word. They didn't just copy. They took their time to understand the words they were writing, through meditation and prayer.

And you know what Luke found? He discovered that Jesus was the real deal - someone who came to bring hope, love, and freedom to everyone.

In today’s Gospel, Jesus reads from the prophet Isaiah, saying He's here to bring good news to the poor, freedom to those who are trapped, sight to the blind, and relief to the oppressed. Then Jesus says, "This is happening right now, today!"

That's powerful stuff! Jesus wasn't talking about something that would happen way off in the future. He meant that He was there to change lives right then and there. And guess what? That same power to change and transform is available to us today.

Are you stuck in a dead-end job? Are your relationships struggling? Do you feel lost and unsure of your purpose? We can find a way out! Just like my friend Lindsay started to do when she realized she was not fulfilled. We can discover our true potential, pursue our dreams, and overcome the things that are holding us back.

But it doesn't happen by magic. We have to put in the work. We need to actively build a strong faith, one that's about how we live each day, not just what we believe. We should be like Luke, always searching for truth and a deeper understanding of our faith and our purpose in life.

So here's what I want you to do:

1. Figure out what you want: What kind of life do you really want? What kind of difference do you want to make in the world? What did you love to do as a child?

2. Find your connection: Whether it's through prayer, meditation, being in nature, or whatever works for you, find a way to connect with something bigger than yourself. For those of us who believe, we can connect with God.

3. Take action: Don't just sit around waiting for things to change. Go out and make them happen! Step outside your comfort zone, face your challenges head-on, and don't give up on what you want.

This is your chance to really live the life you were meant for. Find your purpose, unlock your potential, and go make it happen! You got this!

Take a Minute to Let God In

Have you ever noticed that when a traffic light turns yellow, suddenly drivers near the light accelerate faster? How about if there is a traffic camera or a police officer nearby? How fast are we then to react to the yellow light? I bet when we feel like we can get away with things we tend to get a little riskier with our decision making. But, as soon as we see possible consequences in the form of a camera or police car we react fast enough as not to bring any attention to ourselves. Traffic lights are there to provide order and to provide safety. Most of us, view them as obstacles in our way. When we are running late, we hate them. Yet some of us, are brain dead when we come to one. We see red. We stop. We see green. We go. We are so consumed and distracted in our own thoughts that we sometimes forget, we need to stop and take notice of what is right in front of us.

Today, we celebrate Father’s all across the country. We also celebrate the Solemnity of the Most Holy Trinity. God reminds us that He has always been in our lives. He created us and wants to be a part of our daily lives. But, do we really take notice of His presence? For all of you that make the effort to go to Mass or Church services today, I applaud you and I hope you know that you are inspiring others with your willingness to take the time to be with God. However, after services is over, God invites us to remain in Him throughout the minutes of our lives. He doesn’t want to be with you just at Mass or at service. He wants us to invite Him in to our lives. He wants to be present in our decision making and He wants us to know we are never alone.

In Romans 5:1-5,

“Brothers and sister: Therefore since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we gained access by faith to this grace in which we stand, and we boast in hope of the glory of God. Not only that, but we even boast of our afflictions, knowing that affliction produces endurance, and endurance, proven character, and proven character, hope, and hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit that has been given to us.

God has blessed with His Spirit. With that Spirit, He invites us to stop and take notice the He is with us through all the good and especially through all the bad. He wants us to lean on Him through our darkest hours and to never give up hope and to endure on. We are invited to live in God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit. Let us keep our focus on God, and let’s start inviting Him into everything we do.

Dear Lord,

We are so thankful for your grace and love. Continue to bless us with your grace and Spirit so that all we do may glorify You. Lord, please shower your graces of love onto the many grandfathers, fathers, and fathers to be. May they continue to live in Your Spirit.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

The Force Awakens - The Beginning of Someone Better

If you are like me and millions of other people, you probably saw Star Wars: The Force Awakens. Well, the movie speaks for itself and I will not bore you with my thoughts on who Rey’s father is or any other commentary. But, around that same time that the film came out, I was having my very own Awakening. I don’t know about you but 2015 was a tough year for me - dealing with my mother’s death and my own heart illness. I realized that whether life was going well or collapsing like a melting ice glacier, I wanted to be a better person. I wanted to be a better friend, brother, cousin, uncle, employee, leader, lover, and boyfriend. Most importantly, I wanted to know God better.  I had finally realized that a force was within me desiring to be more like Him. I knew it in my heart; I had been put on this earth for something more. I needed to be living at a higher level and I could no longer be complacent. I needed to be better for me, for others, and for Him.

We have been already experiencing the wondrous blessings from God. But, we should never be complacent. He calls us to be vigilant and constantly wants us to do more. God increases life through us. He challenges us every day to become better and to raise life to a new level. We simply cannot settle for anything less than are very best. We must awaken the force and push forward.

The Mindful Catholic is a resource for you. It will serve as a practical guide to help you grow better each day so that we can be at our very best. It is at our very best that we may also have the ability to serve Him best. I hope that you come with me on this journey to seek out the greatness that God has already placed within us. Now is the time to set aside differences, set aside mediocrity, and set aside negative thinking.

Like everything else, this is a process for growing and learning. Let us remember to trust God and have the faith of a mustard seed so that God’s grace will pour out on us with abundant blessings. The more our faith grows in God, the better we will become. We may just be surprised with ourselves and how abundant life will become.   

So, are you ready? The upcoming Blog posts and the Podcasts will go through the principles and practices that will help us become better each day. Understand that this is a process. We must do all we can do to improve ourselves and have unwavering faith that God will take care of the rest. This will be a life-changing process. You will be better. You will be more useful. You will be more productive. You will have better relationships. If you want to become rich or famous you will.  When you have faith in yourself and trust in God with all your heart; there is no stopping your potential. We just need to awaken the force within that God placed within us.