“'At an hour you do not expect,' says Jesus, 'the Son of Man will come.' This means the end of time and/or the end of our lives. How can we prepare? Not only by trying to live in a state of grace, but also by always leading loving lives, in preparation for God's judgment.”— James Martin, SJ, twitter.com
“Jesus says that when we look at clouds we can tell the weather. So why can't we read 'the signs of the times'? That is, why are we resistant to listening to what the Holy Spirit is telling us--in the lives and experiences of people today? Look around: the Spirit is afoot!”— James Martin, SJ, twitter.com
“When Jesus calls the twelve apostles, he does so as a sign of the 'gathering' of Israel, and because we're meant to join together in worship and ministry. But Jesus doesn't call a faceless mass; he calls each by name, just as he calls you, with all your gifts and talents.”— James Martin, SJ, twitter.com
“'Love your neighbor as yourself.' But who is my neighbor? In response, Jesus tells the parable of the Good Samaritan. The shock comes from recognizing that the neighbor is the one who was formerly hated (the Samaritan). Your salvation may depend on the person you reject.”— James Martin, SJ, twitter.com
“Jesus invites us to take the 'lower place.' No need to puff yourself up. God knows your gifts. Who cares if others do? Who cares what others think at all? Don't fret about it. As C.S. Lewis said, 'Humility is not thinking less of yourself. It's thinking of yourself less.'”— James Martin, SJ, twitter.com
“People often smile if you mention worshiping "idols," as forbidden by the First Commandment. "Ridiculous!" But if your entire life revolves around money--getting it, growing it, keeping it--then it has become an idol for you. "You cannot serve God and Mammon," says Jesus.”— James Martin, SJ, twitter.com