Shows
Revelation -- Understanding the ApocalypseRevelation -- 31The Book of Revelation #31What is the significance of the war in the heavens, opposing Michael the Archangel and the devil and his followers?Does this scene depict the primordial battle between the angels who stood the test that God gave them and those who rebelled, or is it a much more recent battle that draws its strength from the Cross of Christ? And if it is the latter, then how could it be said that the dragon was in heaven?In this talk, we explore these themes and discover a...2021-03-101h 15
Revelation -- Understanding the ApocalypseRevelation -- 30The Book of Revelation #30Verses 11:15 through 12:2 are an antiphonal hymn that the congregation and the 24 elders sing: "The kingdom of the world has become the Kingdom of God." In this talk we examine these verses in detail, paying special attention to the following question: "Has the Kingdom of God been realized in the world?"A purely eschatological reading of this text would suggest that the Kingdom of the world will become the Kingdom of God at the end times. While this may seem a mere theological discussion, the implications are formidable. If it...2021-03-091h 10
Revelation -- Understanding the ApocalypseRevelation -- 22The Book of Revelation #22The Seven Trumpets are governed by four intrinsic movements from earth to heaven and back. Why and what do these continual movements mean?First, St. John witnesses the first four trumpets blown from heaven and their effect on the natural environment of wicked men. Next, the events move from heaven to Earth where we see a mighty angel proclaiming that there shall be no more delay and he sends his witnesses to witness against the city where the Lord has been crucified.Next, we move back up...2021-03-041h 15
Exodus -- God's Wrath and MercyExodus 1-2Exodus #1The Book of Exodus continues the story of Genesis. Four hundred years have passed since Joseph and Jacob had gone down to Egypt, and during these years God remained silent. He had to wait patiently until his children called to him before he took action.We cannot help but wonder if their stay in Egypt would have not been shortened had someone amongst the Israelites called to God saying, "Lord, you gave our fathers Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob another land. A land flowing with milk and honey. Twice did you warn us...2021-01-251h 19
The Book of GenesisGen 62: Chapter 50Book of Genesis #62Genesis is not a book that stands on its own. It is Part 1 of the Pentateuch and can only be understood in the context of the Pentateuch. Therefore, the last chapter of Genesis is a transition into the next major segment of the Pentateuch: Exodus.Ominously, the last word of Genesis is "Egypt." There the coffin of Joseph will wait for 400 years before being transported out of Egypt in dramatic circumstances.Yet the events of Exodus have been set in motion long before Moses and the event of...2021-01-231h 44
The Book of GenesisGen 60: Chapter 48Book of Genesis #60Joseph, upon hearing his father was ill brings his two sons to bless. He wants to receive the blessing of the firstborn and immediately passes it to his children.Normally the blessing is passed from first-born to first-born but in this case, Joseph does not ask a blessing upon himself, instead, he asks Jacob to bless both of his sons; a sign he has received the double blessing of the firstborn.There, a curious thing happens, which happened before multiple times: Jacob whose eyes are dim crosses his...2021-01-231h 34
The Book of GenesisGen 58: Chapter 46Book of Genesis #58At this juncture it is fitting to quote from the Jewish Publication Society's commentary on Genesis:"With this narrative, the patriarchal period in the history of Israel comes to an end.Jacob's descent to Egypt appears at first to be merely a family visit. Yet this visit is presented as being fraught with national significance. It is a summing up of the past as well as a new beginning. Famine drove Abraham to Egypt; now famine impels his grandson in the same direction. Abraham's career opened with a...2021-01-231h 16
The Book of GenesisGenesis 57: Chapters 44 and 45Book of Genesis #57Joseph must have been a man of prayer.He was rich beyond belief, probably the second richest and most powerful man in Egypt after Pharaoh.He had but to reach out and take whatever he pleased, use whomever he pleased in whichever way he pleased.He could have had as many wives as Solomon and probably more concubines than Solomon had.The possibilities were endless.And now right before his eyes, his dream has, at last, come true: his brothers are prostrated...2021-01-231h 19
The Book of GenesisGen 55: Chapter 42Book of Genesis #55What do you do when family comes knocking at the door -- family you wished you would never see again?Do you slam the door in their faces?Do you open the door and sing their praises?Or do you put up with them for as long as politeness demands and send them off with Aunt Mildred's old flower vase when the time comes to take Fido on his walk?But what would you do if you had absolute power of life and death...2021-01-221h 34
The Book of GenesisGen 54: Chapter 41Book of Genesis #54Another two years went by.2 x 365 days, 730 days.Have you waited that long?Did you persevere in prayer?Did you hope and trust in the Lord?Pharaoh had a dream and no one could interpret it because no one has the key to the future.God gave Joseph wisdom and understanding an upright heart and a pure intention. He told Pharaoh the meaning of the dream and he gave him good counsel. There was no guile, no dissimulation, no personal...2021-01-221h 43
The Book of GenesisGen 53: Chapter 40Book of Genesis #53Egyptian dungeons are hot and smelly.They are not a place you'd like to spend your vacation.But they are a wonderful tool to scrub away any remnant of vanity and vices from a godly man.And what a godly man Joseph was.Rather we should say "is".A man who yields to vices would consider himself justified to curse God in such a situation. He would see himself as the victim and God as the torturer.So often the...2021-01-221h 49
The Book of GenesisGen 52: Chapter 39Book of Genesis #52God threw Joseph in a Pit to teach him a lesson in humility.Determining that this was not enough, he sells him into slavery.He lands in a powerful house and has a good master who entrusts him with everything except his wife of course.So what is Joseph doing in that house alone with her?She entreats him the first time and he resists, which is very good.Why does he stay?Why can't he tell his master: "I...2021-01-221h 42
The Book of GenesisGen 51: Chapter 38Book of Genesis #51Chapter 38 is as an interlude in the story of Joseph. It brings up a story concerning Judah and his daughter-in-law Tamar who is in the lineage of Christ as recorded in the first chapter of the Gospel of St. Matthew.Why?Some commentators think that this story was inserted here by a later copyist. Others explain it based on several different sources.Even if this is the case, it still begs the question why here? why now?After all, the copyist could have decided...2021-01-221h 32
The Book of GenesisGen 50: Chapter 37Book of Genesis #50Chapter 37 of Scripture is the beginning of the story of Joseph and it will take us all the way until the end of Chapter 49.The Story of Joseph is well-known at least in its general outline. What is less well-known is the purpose behind it.Abraham -- Isaac -- Jacob are called the Patriarchs. Not Joseph. He is not a patriarch because God does not speak to him directly nor does the Lord renew with Joseph the Covenant he had established with Abraham and renewed with Isaac and...2021-01-221h 19
The Book of GenesisGen 49: Chapter 36Book of Genesis #49The Book of Genesis is also known as the Book of Generations due to the various genealogies it contains. This chapter is one such list dealing with Esau's offspring.Esau is the older brother of Jacob, the one who forsook his blessing for a bowl of lentil but since he is the son of Isaac, the heir to the Covenant after Abraham the blessings of the Covenant will reach him to the degree that he can appreciate them.These blessings are not spiritual but temporal and material....2021-01-221h 19
The Book of GenesisGen 48: Chapter 35Book of Genesis #48The next tableau in the life of Jacob involves two deaths, one birth, and a change of name.Deborah, Rachel's nurse died.Jacob's name was changed to Israel.Rachel, the love of his life died while giving birth to Benjamin.His name is now IsraelHe has twelve sons.It is the birth of the nation of Israel, the very beginning of it. Nearly four hundred and fifty years separates Jacob from the fulfillment of the promise and even more...2021-01-221h 26
The Book of GenesisGen 47: Chapter 34Book of Genesis #47No sooner had Jacob settled in the Land that tragedy strikes.His daughter Dinah goes out to town on her own without asking permission or her father's blessing, a clear act of rebellion.This is not surprising given the state of Jacob's family: when we violate the covenant of marriage between a man and a woman the curses of the Covenant are triggered and one of the bitter fruits of these curses is disobedient and rebellious children.I sometimes hear parents complain bitterly about their teenagers...2021-01-211h 48
The Book of GenesisGen 46: Chapter 33Book of Genesis #46When he met his brother, Jacob acted prudently. He treated him like a King and stayed away from him."May God bless the Czar and keep him far away from us."Jacob pacified his brother by giving him what his brother had always wanted: material goods.Is it a surprise that Jacob was munificent in his dealing with his brother? Much has he received and much has he given. Jacob understood the depth of God's love and care for him for after he was gone some...2021-01-211h 17
The Book of GenesisGen 45: Chapter 32Book of Genesis #45Riddle me this:Jacob had married four wives instead of one. The wife he loved best brought with her statues of foreign gods in violation of the most important commandment. Thus on two important counts, Jacob had violated the objective law of God, the one he inscribed in the heart of every man.Why is it then that God sends an angel to contend with him? After all, your guardian angel contends with you on a daily basis to lead you on the path of holiness and if...2021-01-211h 19
The Book of GenesisGen 44: Chapter 31Book of Genesis #44Jacob came to Laban as a fugitive, now he flees from Laban as a fugitive. He had only himself to worry about when he arrived. Now he has four wives and eleven boys and at least one girl (probably more). The maidservants, herdsmen, and the herd.He needs to move a caravan before his father-in-law catches up with him. As it is Laban did catch up with him but God's providence prevented him from doing evil to Jacob. Particularly when Rachel, his daughter, the woman whom Jacob loved, had stolen...2021-01-211h 31
The Book of GenesisGen 43: Chapter 30Book of Genesis #43What were Leah and Rachel competing for?Why did they give their handmaids to Jacob?Simple: attention.Jacob had married Leah and he was unhappy so he married Rachel.So she was unhappy for she was barren according to Scripture.And she made him unhappy.To countermand her bareness, she gave him Bilhah.Meanwhile, Leah is unhappy because even though she had brought forth four boys already, Jacob's eyes are for Rachel.So she gives him...2021-01-211h 19
The Book of GenesisGen 42: Chapter 29Book of Genesis #42Jacob is given Leah in marriage when his eyes were for Rachel.Jacob loved Rachel but nowhere does Scripture says that she was meant for him according to God's plan.So often we confuse what is lovely with what is lovable by usA woman may be ravishing, immeasurably beautiful but if she is not the one that God has intended for me, she and I will be unhappy beyond measure.Jacob was going to learn this lesson the hard way.Do y...2021-01-211h 02
The Book of GenesisGen 41: Chapter 28Book of Genesis #41Jacob must now deal with the wrath of his brother. He flees but not before receiving his father's blessing for the journey.Unlike Abraham who sent his faithful servant to find his son a wife, Jacob is alone on the journey without any material support beyond his own means. He did not go with a caravan full of gits nor with a large company; he was alone.It is often the case that God needs us to be alone before he reveals himself. Moses was alone when he...2021-01-211h 19
The Book of GenesisGen 40: Chapter 27Book of Genesis #40If we follow the Covenantal trail from Adam down to Jacob we are struck by the fact that seldom does the firstborn receive the blessing intended to make him a ruler of nations. More often than not it is the youngest that receives the blessing.In this case, Esau had already sold his birthright for a bowl of lentil soup but Isaac who has grown old and who in his old age still enjoyed a good meal wanted to give his older son the blessing that was rightfully his for...2021-01-211h 19
The Book of GenesisGen 39: Chapter 26Book of Genesis #39Very little is said about Isaac just as very little is said about St. Joseph, the greatest of all saints after Our Lady.Isaac is the only one who did not go down to Egypt because of the famine. God intervened and told him to stay in the Promised Land.In effect, Isaac is the only patriarch to be born, to have lived, and died in the Promised Land.In this talk, we walk with him and learn from this holy man how he deals with...2021-01-211h 38
The Book of GenesisGen 38: Chapter 25Book of Genesis #38Abraham lived another 35 years and saw his great-grandchildren down to the fifth generation. Following Isaac's marriage, nothing is reported about Abraham's activities because Scripture is not trying to be exhaustive; instead, it follows the Covenantal path as it moves down the generation so intend it is on the coming of the Messiah in whom and through whom everything takes its true meaning.In the generations that flow from Abraham, we see a glimpse of the tragedies to come. The divisions that started within the family echo through history like a...2021-01-201h 19
The Book of GenesisGen 37: Chapter 24Book of Genesis #37With the exception of the wedding of St. Joseph to Our Lady, the wedding of Isaac and Rebekah is perhaps the most beautiful wedding ever recorded in Scripture.If we consider the lives of Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and Joseph we notice that two of them, Abraham and Jacob, were polygamous (involved with more than one woman at the same time) while the other two, Isaac and Joseph were monogamous and that it is they who had the least strife and worries caused by their children.In the case...2021-01-201h 08
The Book of GenesisGen 36: Chapter 23Book of Genesis #36We all live we all die.But should we have to barter so that we could bury our dead?That is what Abraham had to do. He was an alien in the Land promised to him by the Lord and he lived like an alien and sojourner but when the time came to bury Sarah he needed some assurance that he would find for her mortal remains a final abode where she can rest in peace.Ask yourself this question: If Abraham was a man of...2021-01-201h 19
The Book of GenesisGen 35: Chapter 22Book of Genesis #35In this talk, we go over the most dramatic events in the life of Abraham: the sacrifice of Isaac and the Great Covenant.We might be tempted to dwell on the sacrifice as though it was the main event.It wasn't.Many folks sacrifice their children. Some to ambition, others to freedom, others to live their life the way they want to so much so that many today turn their wombs into an altar of sacrifice for themselves.Abraham was faced with two difficulties...2021-01-201h 17
The Book of GenesisGen 34: Chapter 21Book of Genesis #34The birth of Isaac is the cause of the first disunity in Abraham's family.Because Isaac is born, Abraham sends away, that is, he separates himself from the son he loved: Ishmael.This separation has continued down the generations and is the cause of the endless strife and killing between the sons of Isaac today and those of Ishmael.Who would ever have thought that such a seemingly insignificant event as a divorce within a family would yield such bitter fruits down the ages and affect...2021-01-201h 19
The Book of GenesisGen 33: Chapter 20Book of Genesis #33As we have said in the previous talk, anyone who opposes the Covenant of God faces his wrath.Case in point: Abimelech.How ironic that this man is given the eponym Abi Melek (father of the King) when in fact he has no control over his passions. With him it's What you Want is What you Get. There is no thoughtful process, no reflection, no pondering. The man lives in the fast lane, in the now, in a world centered around himself.Come to think of...2021-01-201h 11
The Book of GenesisGen 32: Chapter 19Book of Genesis #32As the JPS commentary on Scripture states "Events now move rapidly toward a horrifying but retributive climax.The drama unfolds through quickly-paced scenes that are presented in three parts: the demonstration by the Sodomites of their irredeemable evil; the deliverance of Lot; the devastation of the region. In an epilogue, we are told of the incestuous act of the daughters of Lot."In these events can be a seen a summary view of the way in which God governs the world: those who oppose his Church -- The...2021-01-191h 18
The Book of GenesisGen 31: Chapter 18Book of Genesis #31In between the promise made of the coming child and his birth a dramatic event is inserted: the visitation of the Lord to Abraham by the Oak of Mamre and the destruction of Sodom and Gomorra.This arrangement may seem strange at first because the narrative expands from the hopes of a couple to have a second unhoped-for child to geo-political events involving two centers of economic powers, two exuberant cities not unlike say LA or San Francisco.Why are these two stories interweaved into a single narrative?2021-01-191h 19
The Book of GenesisGen 30: Chapter 17 continuedBook of Genesis #30This is part two of the study on the Abrahamic covenant. We delve into the covenant God will institute with Abram with the annunciation of the birth of Isaac.Thirteen years came and went without a word from God.Thirteen years of complete silence.Sometimes the silence of God is a sign of the listener's holiness; but more often than not, it is the sign of the listener's obduracy and refusal to obey.Few people realize that the only prayer the Lord will hear...2021-01-191h 19
The Book of GenesisGen 29: Chapter 17Book of Genesis #29This is part one of the study on the Abrahamic covenant. This talk delves into the covenant God will institute with Abram with the annunciation of the birth of Isaac.Thirteen years came and went without a word from God.Thirteen years of complete silence.Sometimes the silence of God is a sign of the listener's holiness; but more often than not, it is the sign of the listener's obduracy and refusal to obey.Few people realize that the only prayer the Lord will...2021-01-1949 min
The Book of GenesisGen 28: Chapter 16Book of Genesis #28God had promised Abram and Sarai a son.Just as he has promised to take care of our family's needs.But Sarai and Abram grew impatient or perhaps they thought they ought to take matters into their own hands for after all did not God instruct Adam to "guard and till" the Land? If then Man shall eat by the sweat of his brow, it would be natural to take charge of his own fertility and to do what makes the most sense to him based on his...2021-01-191h 19
The Book of GenesisGen 27: Chapter 15Book of Genesis #27Throughout Hebrew literature, the central narrative of this chapter is known by the name ha-berit bein ha-betarim, "The covenant between the pieces". This name derives from the covenant ceremony (berit), the climactic point which is the passing between the pieces of meat described in verse 17.God then passes between the pieces of the sacrifice he had instructed Abram to prepare. What does it mean for God to pass between the pieces? What is the purpose of this gesture? Furthermore, why does God consume these pieces by fire?The...2021-01-191h 15
The Book of GenesisGen 26: Chapter 14Book of Genesis #26Chapter 14 exhibits an unparalleled concentration of unique or rare features of all kinds.First biblical report of warfare.Abram as a remarkable military chief and heroHe is given the epithet "The Hebrew"He comes into contact with a Canaanite priestTwo uncommon divine titles are used here: God Most High and Creator of heaven and earth. The latter never reappears in the OT. It appears in the NT.The contrast between the anonymity of the Pharaoh in 13 and the rich list of names of kings here is striking.The list of the...2021-01-1546 min
The Book of GenesisGen 25: Chapter 13Book of Genesis #25At last, Abraham leaves Egypt with Sarah and goes back to the Promised Land. St. Ambrose tells us that Sarah represents virtue, so that, even though Abram lived in Egypt, he remained faithful to virtue and did not depart from her side.Once in the Promised Land, he must fight for water and he manages to do it amicably, not clinging to his rights but finding a peaceful solution with the Lot's herdsmen. And God who sees all remembers Abram and visits him with a second promise:Lift...2021-01-151h 19
The Book of GenesisGen 24: Chapter 12Book of Genesis #24How do you leave what you know and love and move on to a place you know nothing about?"Go to a place I shall show you..."Abram (the former name of Abraham) was not even told where he was supposed to go. How did this man who knew very little about God put his faith in him and follow his calling across hundreds of miles to his destination?How did he convince his followers to accompany him? Why did they not label him as a l...2021-01-151h 09
The Book of GenesisGen 23: Chapter 11Book of Genesis #23Like the Table of Nations that we studied in the previous talk (Genesis 10: The Table of Nations), Chapter 11 has no parallel in Mesopotamian literature.Chapter 11 displays an intimate acquaintance with Babylonian construction techniques, a familiarity with some characteristic formulas of cuneiform royal building inscriptions.But familiarity does not mean similitude. If anything, this chapter is a spiritual and ideological tract against the Babylonian ambitions to conquer the sky. A key expression, repeated 5 times, is "all the earth," for the entire human race is presumed involved in the sinful...2021-01-151h 13
The Book of GenesisGen 22: Chapter 10Book of Genesis #22Chapter 10 introduces the Table of Nations, a document unparalleled in the ancient world. It affirms that all men are members of the same family and that all nations are composed of men.While these two statements may seem trivial today, we would do well to remember that the Egyptians of antiquity reserved the word 'man' to themselves and the Greeks called any non-Greek a 'barbarian'. But in Scripture, the universal trait of man is affirmed, and when we study this chapter in the larger context of Genesis we understand that...2021-01-151h 30
The Book of GenesisGen 21: The Flood -- Part IIIBook of Genesis #21Noah has a grand-son. His name is Canaan. Presumably, Noah has more than one grand-son but Canaan is mentioned because he plays an important role in the human drama.Noah plants a vine, makes wine, and gets drunk in his tent. Ham, the father of Canaan, sees his father's nakedness and tells his brothers. Upon waking up, Noah finds out what his son did and he curses his grandson.Why did Noah curse Canaan when Ham was the one responsible for "seeing his father's nakedness" and what does...2021-01-151h 11
The Book of GenesisGen 20: The Flood -- Chapters 7 thru 9Book of Genesis #20In this study, we focus on select parts of chapter 7 through the beginning of chapter 9 and we consider the following questions:Was the deluge a historical phenomenon?If indeed the flood is historical, did it cover the entire Earth? We consider two options: The geographical universality of the flood and the Anthropological universality of the flood.Next, we focus on the arc, its meaning, and its symbolic import. The Fathers have always seen in the arc a symbol of the Church (Anagogical meaning of scripture? (See...2021-01-151h 19
The Book of GenesisGen 19: The Flood -- The DecreeBook of Genesis #19This study gives an overview of the entire flood drama and focuses on Chapter 6 verses 1 through 9. Chapters 6 through 9 describe a ten parts drama seen from God's vantage point; all covenantal related: It is apocalyptic in nature even though this is not apparent.The Trigger: verses 1-2The First Proclamation: verse 3The Confirmation in Sin: Verses 4 - 5The Second Proclamation: Verses 6 - 7The Remnants: Verse 8-9The Revelation of God's Plan 11 - 22The Covenantal Execution: Chapter 7The Covenantal Renewal: Chapter 8The Covenantal Blessing: Chapter 9Its main purpose is to serve...2021-01-151h 17
The Book of GenesisGen 18: Chapter 5Book of Genesis # 18This lecture covers Chapter 5 of the Book of Genesis describing the line of Seth, the third son of Adam and Eve mentioned by name. This line is the righteous line from which the Savior will one day be born.Its proximate importance stems from the contrast the ten names mentioned here offer with the descendants of Cain. The line of Cain makes mention of profession and technology whereas the line of Seth mentions age and length of life. The line of Cain centers around power, might, and revenge, that of...2021-01-141h 07
The Book of GenesisGen 17: Chapter 4 v 17 and followingBook of Genesis #17Beginning with verse 17 and covering the rest of Chapter 4 is the civilization that issues forth from Cain. One of the key rules derived from the principle of mimetic violence may be stated as follows: Every empire is built upon a tomb.Bishop Sheen who was aware of this principle puts it this way: "every civilization is built upon a tomb except the Catholic Church which is built upon an empty tomb."Cain being exiled and obliged to live under a second curse ("And now you are cursed from...2021-01-141h 06
The Book of GenesisGen 16: Cain Kills his brotherBook of Genesis #16How do we explain the murder of Abel by Cain?Did Cain truly kill his brother because his sacrifice was not accepted and Abel's sacrifice was accepted?Certainly, this event was the catalyst that led Cain to kill but if we stop there we run the risk of not understanding Cain's motives and when we do not understand someone's motives, we can easily conclude that whatever caused him to act as he did does not concern us; we will not do as he did.While murder...2021-01-141h 36
The Book of GenesisGen 15: Early Days of ExileBook of Genesis #15Adam and Eve have been sent away from the Garden.The Cherubim and the Sword guard the gates so that they can never come back.Chapter 4 is the unfolding of the human drama as a consequence of original sin. It is also the demonstration that original sin affects us all and that nothing can take it away except the Lord Jesus.In this lecture, we begin our study of this very important and rich chapter with a contemplative view. We walk slowly through its pages and...2021-01-141h 18
The Book of GenesisGen 14: Chapter 3, vv 8-24Book of Genesis #14What a pitiful sight this must have been: the man and the woman hiding away from God.The remainder of Chapter 3 from verses 8 through 24 presents us with a pathetic spectacle: Adam and Eve whose intelligence is dulled, whose passions have become unbridled, whose strength is waning, and whose mind is confused attempt to hide from God.Yet the text grows strange when we hear God asking "Where are you?" Could it be that God does not know where they are and cannot see them?Likewise, God...2021-01-141h 31
The Book of GenesisGen 13: Chapter 3, vv 1-7Book of Genesis #13The Fall remains a mystery.The account of the fall given in verses 3:1 through 3:7 is terse and to the point, yet it is deep in meaning and needs to be studied carefully.Adam and Eve were two perfect beings who were given the opportunity to live forever in the strength of their youth without sickness, toil, or sweat. They had everything they needed to be happy. Why then did these two beings, superior in intellect, beauty, and strength, lose it all by stealing what God wanted to give...2021-01-141h 19
The Book of GenesisGen: 12: Chapter 2, vv 15-24Book of Genesis #12Verses 15 through 24 of Chapter 2 provides us with a second account of the creation of man and woman; an account focusing on relationships and intimacy.Throughout these verses, God's solicitude toward man is marvelous especially when one considers the manner in which the gods are said to treat man in the Babylonian, Greek, Egyptian, Phoenician, and Roman mythologies. Here, we see the love of a Father toward his child rather than the love of a Creator toward his creature.Equally deafening is the silence of Adam.Why...2021-01-131h 19
The Book of GenesisGen 11: Chapter 2, vv 1-14Book of Genesis #11Verses 1 through 14 of Chapter 2 recounts the creation of Eden. They provide a second account of the creation of man and describe his initial dwelling: the Garden of Eden.Two popular misconceptions need to be cleared: 'Eden' is not the name of the Garden; rather it is the name of a location where the garden was situated and secondly, the tree of knowledge of good and evil is not an apple tree and Eve did not eat an apple (granny smith? Red delicious?) and gave one to Adam to eat.2021-01-131h 19
The Book of GenesisGen 10: The Blessing of ManBook of Genesis #10Photo by Davide Cantelli on UnsplashVerse 28 of the first chapter of Genesis begins with these words: "And God blessed them..."What does it mean for God to bless? Especially when God's creation was certified by him as good and the creation of man as very good. If this is so, what does a blessing confer beyond this initial goodness?To fully understand the purpose of a blessing, we need to consider curses for that is what God does later on when Adam and Eve disobeys. B...2021-01-131h 19
The Book of GenesisGen 9: Chapter 1, verses 26 and 27Book of Genesis #9Verses 26 and 27 of the first chapter of Genesis read as follows:26. Then God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness; and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the birds of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creeps upon the earth. 27. So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him, male and female he created them.And these two v...2021-01-1347 min
The Book of GenesisGen 8: the next three daysBook of Genesis #8Why does the Narrator prescinds from the natural order and recounts the creation of the sun, moon, and stars after the creation of the vegetative life on Earth? Is it because there is a lack of true understanding of the created order or could there be a deeper more cogent reason for this inversion?In this lecture, we focus on days four, five, and six during which we see the creation of the vegetative life, the heavenly objects, the birds of the air, the fish of the sea, the domesticated...2021-01-131h 19
The Book of GenesisGen 7: Chap 1, vv 1-13Book of Genesis #7What is then the theological and moral purpose of the account of Creation? In this lecture we focus on the initial three days, that is from verses one through thirteen of the first chapter of Genesis.HighlightsWhat does "In the Beginning mean"? Is it a chronological reference? Is it something else? And why begin with an account of creation instead of starting off with the establishment of the Temple which was far more important for Jewish life than the account of creation ever was? What led the Narrator...2021-01-1355 min
The Book of GenesisGen 6: Overview of the Book of GenesisBook of Genesis #6We begin our scriptural study of the Book of Genesis by taking a broad view of the purpose and content of this sacred book. Who was it written for? And for what purpose?After all, Genesis is not a compendium of divine activities that brought about the creation of the world and man nor is it an exhaustive account of all the truths that God wishes to convey to us, rather it is written to answer specific questions, much like the letters of St. Paul and understanding what these questions a...2021-01-121h 19
The Book of GenesisGen 5: CreationismBook of Genesis #5Whether men of science ignored or neglected to control the pseudo-scientific statements in newspapers, magazines, radio, and TV or whether men of faith refused to dialog fruitfully with the Theory of Evolution, Darwin's Origin of Species ignited a controversy that has led to the creation of an alternate view of the world, known collectively as Creationism.If one were to search for Creationism on the internet, one would be greeted by swaths of pages full of invectives and derogatory comments by men and women who are content to belong to on...2021-01-121h 19
The Book of GenesisGen 4: Theory of EvolutionBook of Genesis #4When Darwin put forth his theory of evolution he had an inkling that it may be found controversial. Little did he expect that his scientific studies would mushroom into a world-wide controversy pitting men of science and men of faith against each other.What is the theory of evolution? What does it actually teach and is it fundamentally opposed to a religious view of the world? In this study we spell out in simple terms what this theory is all about, we showcase its strength and its power to unify...2021-01-121h 19
Catholic Foundation LibraryCFL 37: Mary Mother of LifeCatholic Foundation Library #37Our Lord told us that He is "the way, the life and the truth" and since Mary is his mother it is only right to address her under the title "Mary Mother of Life."Eve was called the Mother of the Living, but Mary is Mother of Life to indicate that she is not only the Mother of the Living but the Mother of Life itself -- Our Lord.Eve was the Mother of the Living -- those under the original curse: "for dust you are to dust...2021-01-111h 03
Catholic Foundation LibraryCFL 36: Our Lady of GuadalupeCatholic Foundation Library #36Many have heard of Our Lady of Guadalupe and many have seen the famous image imprinted on the tilma of St. Juan Diego, yet few truly understand the importance of this divine intervention in the life of the Church.What was the life of people of the Americas before the Church reached the continent? What did they believe in and why did they refuse the Christian message with such a great determination that only a very small portion of the population had converted?How can we then explain...2021-01-111h 01
Catholic Foundation LibraryCFL 35: Fatima -- A historical PerspectiveCatholic Foundation Library #35In 1917, Our Lady appeared in the small town of Fatima, Portugal to 3 children and entrusted them with three important messages, the last of which became known as the Third Secret of Fatima.In this lecture, we give a practical, historical example of the workings of God in history through the covenant. We explain how the Lord is leading all of history to its appointed end via political and economic events. By listening to this lecture you will learn to see the world through the covenant and realize more and more...2021-01-1159 min
Catholic Foundation LibraryCFL 34: Angels in ActionCatholic Foundation Library #34In this talk, we will listen to what saints and other pious people have had to say about their experiences with angels.Some have seen their guardian angels since they were little. Others, like Padre Pio, saw and conferred with their angels and the guardian angels of other people regularly.HighlightsAre we held by the Holy Spirit during struggles and temptations? Yes. Find out why.Illusions, apprehensions, and anxiety cloud our intellect. Find out why this is dangerous.Angels have two powers to battle...2021-01-111h 04
Catholic Foundation LibraryCFL 33: The Archangel RaphaelCatholic Foundation Library #33This lecture is a meditation on the role of the Archangel Raphael who is much neglected in Catholic circles.We will study the Book of Tobit and discover all that this great, heavenly saint can do for us.HighlightsDo angels know the future? No. (this applies to demons as well). Find out why.Can an angel help us discern our vocation? Absolutely.Can St. Raphael help us find a wife/husband? Ask him. You will be surprised.Do angels intercede on our behalf before...2021-01-111h 04
Catholic Foundation LibraryCFL 32: Our Guardian AngelCatholic Foundation Library #32In this talk, we will learn why we need a guardian angel, or more specifically, why it is impossible for us to get to heaven without our guardian angel. Against the three enemies of the flesh, the world, and the devil, our Lord has given us an angel to protect us, to guide us, to encourage us when we fall, and to console us.HighlightsWe are disordered because of original sin. We need our guardian angel's help.There are three enemies recorded in Scripture t...2021-01-1152 min
Catholic Foundation LibraryCFL 31: Nine Choirs of AngelsCatholic Foundation Library #31In this talk, we will be studying the nine choirs of angels from the Seraphim down to the choir known as angels.We will learn about each of these choirs and find out more about their angelic nature. Also, we will understand the statement of Our Lord when he said inA Luke 20:36 that the saints in heaven are like angels.HighlightsAfter we die, do we become angels? No. At the end of the world, we will have a body. Angels are pure spirits, they...2021-01-111h 03
Catholic Foundation LibraryCFL: 30 Living in the New AgeCatholic Foundation Library #30You may have heard this expression associated with non-Catholic groups or organizations, and what you may not know is that this expression refers to the time we live in, the time of the Church, the end times.In this lecture, we study passages such as Matthew 19:27-30, Luke 1 46-55, Romans 16:24-27, to understand what was meant by this expression. We will clarify its meaning and grasp the relationship that exists between the new age and the Church.HighlightsWhy is there an overlap of the...2021-01-111h 07
Catholic Foundation LibraryCFL 29: Living in the Last DaysCatholic Foundation Library #29Passages such as Acts 2:12-40, Timothy 3:1-12, Hebrew 1:1-3, James 5:1-11, 2 Peter 3, and 1 Peter 1:5 will reinforce what we have learned in the preceding lecture.We will see that all these texts dealing with the end times function as a cohesive whole echoing one another in a harmonious way.There is no contradiction in Scripture provided Scripture is interpreted according to the mind of the Catholic Church. These passages are a perfect illustration of this principle.2021-01-111h 01
Catholic Foundation LibraryCFL 28: The End TimesCatholic Foundation Library #28In this first lecture, we study the various passages of the Gospels that deal with the end times.Specifically, we focus on Matthew 16:31, Matthew 24, Matthew 13, and Luke 21.In this context, the four senses of Scripture and the Covenant will prove particularly useful to help us understand what Jesus meant. We will see that the words of the Lord did not deal with the end times principally but with events that were at hand and that signaled the end of the old covenant. We will also see how these...2021-01-111h 01
Catholic Foundation LibraryCFL 27: Daniel 10 through 12Catholic Foundation Library #27In this third talk, we focus on the vision in Chapters 10 through 12. We follow its historical development by studying the royal dynasties and their timeline.This vision is important because it sets the timetable of the coming of Jesus Christ. Another important aspect of this vision is that the Archangel Gabriel tells Daniel to seal the vision for its time has not yet come, and in the Book of Revelation, Our Lord unseals a sealed scroll.HighlightsThe devil is the accuser of each and...2021-01-111h 06
Catholic Foundation LibraryCFL 26: Daniel --7 through 9Catholic Foundation Library #26We focus on the visions contained in Chapters 7 through 9. These visions play a critical role in the Book of Revelation and in the Gospels.Jesus ascribes to himself the title, "Son of Man", more than any other title. This title does not mean, as some may think, a meek and humble Jesus hiding his divinity; quite the contrary, it is a messianic title that means "Son of God" and it is taken from the Book of Daniel.HighlightsThe four beasts are identified with four...2021-01-1159 min
Catholic Foundation LibraryCFL 25: Daniel -- 1 through 6Catholic Foundation Library #25We focus on Chapters 1 through 6 of the Book of Daniel where we read of three tests of faith that Daniel (and some of his companions) had to undergo.These tests were ordained by God for the sanctity of Daniel. Through them, he was learning about God, his love, and his nature, and so God was preparing him for his prophetic mission.HighlightsHow strong is our faith? Are we ready to be tested?How important is personal prayer?Is living a Christian life supposed to...2021-01-111h 07
Catholic Foundation LibraryCFL 24: Ezekiel -- 40 through 48Catholic Foundation Library #24In this third and last lecture on the Book of Ezechiel, we observe that God does not always speak to us with words.Most of the time we simply do not want to hear God speaking to us that way. In particular, we will meditate on holy indifference.Next, we study the New Temple described in the latter part of the Book of Ezekiel and see the splendor of the Church.HighlightsWhy did God take Ezechiel's wife away and command him not...2021-01-1159 min
Catholic Foundation LibraryCFL 23: Ezekiel -- 9 through 39Catholic Foundation Library #23We continue the study of the Book of Ezekiel beginning with Chapter 9 with the marking of those who sigh about all the iniquities that take place in the Temple.We will understand how the Covenant removes every city, country, or power that stands before it. Anyone who tries to break the Covenant is broken by it. The question, therefore, is not if but when.Highlights665 appears in the Book of Ezechiel. What is its relationship with 666?Can one be a committed Christian and be anxious?W...2021-01-111h 06
Catholic Foundation LibraryCFL22: Ezekiel -- 1 through 5Catholic Foundation Library #22In this lecture, we begin by looking at the overall structure of the Book of Ezechiel, and then we will cover chapters 1 through 5.In particular, we will look at the vision of the dead bones, and we will point out the similarity in structure between the Book of Ezechiel and the Book of Revelation.HighlightsWhat is the relation between the vision of the dead bones and the final judgment?How are we to understand the vision of the throne and the strange creatures surrounding...2021-01-111h 12
Catholic Foundation LibraryCFL 21: Isaiah -- Book of RestorationCatholic Foundation Library #21Comfort, give comfort to my people, says your God.Speak tenderly to Jerusalem, and proclaim to her that her service is at an end, her guilt is expiated; Indeed, she has received from the hand of the LORD double for all her sins.A voice cries out: In the desert, prepare the way of the LORD! Make straight in the wasteland a highway for our God!Every valley shall be filled in, every mountain and hill shall be made low; the rugged land shall be made a plain, the rough country, a broad v...2021-01-111h 08
The Book of GenesisGen 3: Quantum MechanicsThe Book of Genesis #3If there is anything in the domain of science that causes our heads to spin it is indeed Quantum Theory. While the Theory of Relativity is concerned with the grander things in the Universe, Quantum Theory tries to make sense of the behavior of the littlest things in our world: the atomic sub-structure that composes the physical world.One of the strangest tenets of Quantum Theory is the Incertitude Principle which states that it is impossible to determine the speed and the position of an electron at the same...2021-01-101h 19
The Book of GenesisGen 2: Relativity TheoryThe Book of Genesis #2Underpinning the Standard Cosmology Model is Einstein's Theory of Relativity. Often misunderstood and maligned by those who think that the purpose of this theory is to establish a foundation for moral relativism, the Theory of Relativity is a major achievement of mathematics and physics.In this lecture we begin with electricity and electromagnetism, show how they were understood to be one and the same force (the electromagnetic force), progress forward towards the study of light which stumped Poincaré and the other masters of the time, and then reach Einstein w...2021-01-101h 19
The Book of GenesisGen 1: The Big BangBook of Genesis #1How did the Universe come to be and is there a contradiction between the Standard Cosmological Model and Scripture?In this lecture, we explore and explain the Big Bang based on the latest scientific research in this area. We present what science knows today and touch upon areas that remain unexplained or subject to further research.The Standard Cosmological model states that the Universe had a beginning some 13.75 billion years ago and that it is in an accelerating state of expansion today. The Big Bang provides us with...2021-01-101h 37
Catholic Foundation LibraryCFL 20: Isaiah -- Book of Damnation Part IICatholic Foundation Library #20We continue and complete our study of the Book of Damnation.HighlightsWhy God allows his enemies to flourish? To make good use of them, of course.What is this business of speaking in tongues? Is it real?Why is the Catholic view of the world optimistic and triumphant?Do you really understand why Galileo was excommunicated?2021-01-101h 12
Catholic Foundation LibraryCFL 19: Isaiah -- Book of DamnationCatholic Foundation Library #19What is striking is that these woes are not immediately followed by a sweeping action on God's part. It is as if God promises woes to those who are unfaithful to Him but seems to hesitate; Is God unfaithful to His word?The interpretive key here and elsewhere is that God is a loving father. He will warn multiple times before taking action, but when He does the action is definitive, efficient, and cannot be revoked.2021-01-101h 11
Catholic Foundation LibraryCFL 18: Symbols in Scripture Part IICatholic Foundation Library #18In this lecture, we cover the meaning of the Zodiac, natural elements like the sea, the mountains, trees, etc., colors, precious stones, weapons, and animals.HighlightsWhat is the sea a symbol of?What is the fig tree a symbol of?What is a horse a symbol of?2021-01-101h 13
Catholic Foundation LibraryCFL 17: Symbols in ScriptureCatholic Foundation Library #17In this lecture we will look at the symbolic meaning of numbers: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 10, 12, 24, 100, 1,000, 144,000, what do these numbers mean?Does 144,000 mean exactly 144,000?As with everything else, we need to realize that the ancients looked at numbers differently and ascribed different meanings to them. It is important for us to recover this meaning so that we may properly understand their usage in the Bible.HighlightsWhy is 666 the number of the beast?Where in the bible is 666 mentioned first?If 666 is the number of the beast, w...2021-01-101h 01
Catholic Foundation LibraryCFL 16: Jewish Liturgical Calendar Part IICatholic Foundation Library #16The three last feasts of the Temple liturgical year were no less important than the first three. The Feast of Tabernacles takes place 50 days after Yom Kippur and is the foreshadowing of the Feast of Pentecost in the Catholic Liturgy.These three feasts have an eschatological dimension and play an important role in the Book of Revelation.HighlightsWhat are the 10 Days of Awe?What is the scapegoat and what role does it play?Why are trumpets important?2021-01-101h 15
Catholic Foundation LibraryCFL: 15 Jewish FeastsCatholic Foundation Library #15We begin this lecture with an overview of the Jewish calendar and its importance. Next, we study the first three feasts of this calendar, namely Passover, Unleavened Bread, and First Fruits.These three feasts occurred during the week of Nissan 14 (specifically beginning with Nissan 14 and ending on the 21st of Nissan. From an analogical point of view (see the four senses of scripture) it is clear that Passover is a type of the passion, Unleavened Bread of the Eucharist, and First Fruits of the resurrection.HighlightsWh...2021-01-101h 18
Catholic Foundation LibraryCFL 14: The Temple and ChirstCatholic Foundation Library #14In this lecture, we will attempt to explain why God spent two chapters in Scripture talking about creation, and fifty chapters talking about the Tabernacle and the Temple.God gave direct, specific instructions about the Temple; its architecture, its size, its decoration, the furniture that went in it. Everything was directed by God.Why?Part of the answer is that the Temple is important in the eyes of God.Why?Because Heaven is important.The Temple is the first glimpse o...2021-01-101h 19
Catholic Foundation LibraryCFL 13: The Temple's ArchitectureCatholic Foundation Library #13The Temple of Jerusalem, built during the reign of Solomon, was the only place on Earth God dwelt in a visible fashion. The Shekinah, the Presence of the Lord, was in the Holy of Holies until shortly before the destruction of Jerusalem by Babylon in 587 A.D.The Temple was built with a system of concentric courts. The Court of the Gentiles was open to everyone. It was the largest court and anyone, Jew or Gentile, could walk there. A dividing wall separated this court from that of the women wh...2021-01-101h 07
Catholic Foundation LibraryCFL 12: The LawCatholic Foundation Library #12In this lecture, we study the blessings and curses in Leviticus 26 and Deuteronomy 28, and their implications as they apply to us today. We study Psalm 91 and Wisdom 7 to understand the curses of God in light of his mercy so that we conform our consciences to a proper understanding of who God is and who we are in his sight. As the Book of Wisdom states, "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of Wisdom." We rely on the analogical sense to see how Wisdom 7 applies to the Lord, and on the an...2021-01-101h 19
Catholic Foundation LibraryCFL 11: Ten Plagues of EgyptCatholic Foundation Library #11The 10 plagues of Egypt are important for anyone who wishes to understand the Book of Revelation. Yet, in and of themselves, the plagues are dreadful and strange. Locusts, frogs, nights of darkness, blood ... what is God up to? In this lecture, we study these plagues and deepen our understanding of Our Heavenly Father's plan of salvation and of his love for us. We also look at the role angels play during the old covenant and reflect on the power they have to influence us. HighlightsWhy did God harden th...2021-01-101h 15
Catholic Foundation LibraryCFL 10: Out of EgyptCatholic Foundation Library #10In this lecture, we build upon our study of the Covenant and the blessings and curses by considering the presence of Israel in Egypt, their fall into slavery, and their call out of Egypt. We use the senses of Scripture to apply their plight to the present time in order to understand God's plan of salvation for us today.HighlightsWhy did God let Israel stay in Egypt for 400 years before calling them out?Why did God make it so difficult for them to reach the Promised L...2021-01-101h 16
Catholic Foundation LibraryCFL9: Roadmap to HeavenCatholic Foundation Library #9In this lecture, we explore a simple question: Why the Covenant? Why all the sacrifices? Why the blessings and the curses? Couldn't God find an easier way?HighlightsIf dogs beget dogs and cats beget cats and humans beget humans, how could we be called children of God? Is this symbolic?Do unbaptized babies go to heaven?Can we get to heaven outside the Covenant?2021-01-101h 01
Catholic Foundation LibraryCFL:8 Blessings and CursesCatholic Foundation Library #8What do we mean when we say that God blesses? Likewise, what do we mean when we say that God curses? This talk defines these terms; explains what they mean. In particular, we will clear a common misconception that cursing and swearing is the same thing. It is not.HighlightsWhen God blesses someone, is his family blessed as well?When God curses someone, is his family cursed as well?Do we have the power to bless?Do we have the power to curse?2021-01-101h 03
Catholic Foundation LibraryCFL 7: Moses and DavidCatholic Foundation Library #7The Covenant with Moses is, without doubt, a foundational event. In it, God makes the twelve tribes a nation; Moses gives them the law and promises to lead them to a land flowing with milk and honey. The Covenant with David ratifies this promise and seals it: the Kingdom of David is born.Beyond the literal meaning of these texts, we see shining forth Christ and his Church. In this series we study these two Covenants and understand how they apply to the Lord and to the New Israel, that is t...2021-01-101h 07
Catholic Foundation LibraryCFL 6: What is a CovenantCatholic Foundation Library #6In this lecture, we explain what a covenant is and what it is not. In particular, we explain the difference between a Covenant and a contract and then we study the first three Covenants with Adam, Noah, and Abraham. The anagogical sense of Scripture shows us how each: Adam, Noah, and Abraham is a type of Christ and of God. The anagogical sense shows us that Eve, Noah's wife, and Abraham's tribe are a type of the Church.HighlightsWhat is the difference between a Covenant and a...2021-01-101h 09
Catholic Foundation LibraryCFL 5: Anagogical and Moral SenseCatholic Foundation Library #5In paragraph 117, the Catechism of the Catholic Church tells us that the anagogical sense allows us to " view realities and events in terms of their eternal significance, leading us toward our true homeland: thus the Church on earth is a sign of the heavenly Jerusalem." The anagogical sense then allows us to understand what Scripture has to say about the Church (and Our Lady) and about the end times.The moral sense, adds the Catechism in the same paragraph, allows us to understand that "the events reported in Scripture ought to...2021-01-101h 13
Catholic Foundation LibraryCFL 4: The Allegorical SenseCatholic Foundation Library #4In paragraph 116, the Catechism of the Catholic Church says that "we can acquire a more profound understanding of events by recognizing their significance in Christ; thus the crossing of the Red Sea is a sign or type of Christ's victory and also of Christian Baptism." This is what the allegorical sense of Scripture stands for: Understanding the literal passage as it applies to Christ.HighlightsIn John, Chapter 3, Jesus compares himself to a serpent of bronze. What did he mean? Find out how the allegorical sense helps us t...2021-01-1058 min
Catholic Foundation LibraryCFL 3: How should we use the Litteral Sense?Catholic Foundation Library #3In Matthew 20:29 and following, and Luke 18:35 and following, we read of the healing of the blind man. Trouble is that Matthew tells us that Jesus was entering Jericho and Luke tells us that the Lord was leaving Jericho. It can't be both. Is there a contradiction in Scripture? Obviously, we can't take Scripture word-for-word here, so how are we to understand what actually took place? Learn how to apply the literal sense properly.In the second chapter of Mark, we meet Jesus and the disciples walking through a field of wh...2021-01-101h 08
Catholic Foundation LibraryCFL 2: The Literal SenseCatholic Foundation Library #2In paragraph 116 of the Catechism of the Catholic Church, we read "The literal sense is the meaning conveyed by the words of Scripture and discovered by exegesis, following the rules of sound interpretation: 'All other senses of Sacred Scripture are based on the literal.'"The literal sense is not necessarily the word-for-word meaning of the text. The context, the writing style, the epoch, the subject, and the whole of Scripture in the Tradition of the Church must be taken into consideration to properly understand what the text is saying.2021-01-101h 01
Catholic Foundation LibraryCFL 1: Introduction to the Four SensesCatholic Foundation Library #1According to an ancient tradition, one can distinguish between two senses of Scripture: the literal and the spiritual, the latter being subdivided into the allegorical, moral, and anagogical senses."The profound concordance of the four senses guarantees all its richness to the living reading of Scripture in the Church." So says the Catechism of, the Catholic Church in paragraph 115.In this talk, we learn about the literal and the spiritual senses of Scripture and we begin to understand how we need to use the four senses in order to...2021-01-101h 07