Like Jesus, James urges us to value the spiritual side of life. How else can one persevere till the end unless by having a deeply rooted hope?

We cannot walk this path without help, but must let ourselves be led, like the blind man whom Jesus took by the hand...

James hits out against servile deference and class distinction. He will not have us show special regard to rich, fashionably dressed people, while despising others ...

If we reach out a helping hand to our neighbour in need, we are carrying the cross in the way that matters...

Today we pray for divine guidance on our present pope and on the whole church of God throughout the world...

Earlier thinkers had stated the principle not to do to others what you would not have them do to you. That underlies all manners and politeness. But Jesus puts it more positively...

Even when all seems lost, we need to keep reaching out, like the man in today's gospel, whose prayer was finally heard...

Just as children easily begin to join other children as playmates, so we should respect those who are least self-important...

Our ultimate destiny is not just a return to dust and ashes but sharing in the Lord's risen life and seeing God face-to-face...

Voluntary renunciation has a positive meaning. Giving up something for Lent is always with a view to living life more fully.