The curious reading from Isaiah, the prophet—and therefore God—takes a side in a political dispute, ratifying the ascendancy of one official over another whose lifestyle had provoked God’s anger.

In going to Tyre and Sidon Jesus had traveled to the edges of the territory to get away for a while from the conflicts his ministry was causing.

When Peter’s faith began failing, he called out to Jesus to save him, and Christ reached out his hand to catch him.

It was only Jesus, but they saw his glory.

The first reading from 1 Kings has a twist. We’re used to asking God for something; in this case God asks a question—and moreover promises to grant the request.

Mercy and justice, love and judgment: God holds together what for human beings can frequently be extremes. We also hear this week from Saint Paul about the Holy Spirit and prayer, and in the gospel more parables about the kingdom of God.

The power of God’s word—both now and to come—and what creation does with that word: Such are two of the themes of this week’s readings.

Scripture this week calls attention to the presence of God, and the response to that presence. The king is in our midst, the Spirit is present in our bodies, the wisdom of God has been made flesh in Jesus. How to respond?

The woman of Shunem showed hospitality to the holy man, the prophet Elisha. How do you show hospitality in your life and ministry?

Jesus counsels us not to fear. What are some of the fears in your own heart at the present time? Can you bring them to the Lord in prayer?