A Franciscan Heart In the World

Home By Another Way

“They set out and there it was, the star that they had seen at its rising, going before them.” (Matthew 2:9) Every year on Epiphany, we hear this familiar Gospel about the Magi following a star. We hear about their long journey, their searching, and the gifts they bring—gold, frankincense, and myrrh. It’s a beautiful story, and one we know well. But if we listen closely to the scripture, we notice something quieter happening beneath the surface. Long before the Magi ever opened their chests, they had already given God something far more personal: their time, their trust, their willingness to keep going even when the way forward wasn’t clear. This morning, I’d like us to linger there, and ask what Epiphany might be inviting us to offer God as well

The Carpenter's Gift

In this Christmas episode of A Franciscan Heart in the World, weenter the quiet mystery of a God who comes close — not in power, but intenderness. Through the story of Jack and his grandfather, we explore how loveis handed down through patient presence, steady encouragement, and the courage to show up. Christmas becomes more than a memory of Jesus’ birth; it becomes aninvitation to build something lasting with our lives, the way a carpenter shapes wood with care. With reflection questions and blessings to guide the heart, this episode invites us to receive the love that formed us — and to pass that love on.

The Dawn That Breaks Through Us

Luke 1:67-79 [https://bible.usccb.org/bible/luke/1?67]When God opens a new chapter, it rarely comes with fanfare. Sometimes it comes as a quiet call to step into who we were anointed to be — priest, prophet, and king — in our time, in our place, in our way. In today’s Gospel, Zechariah finally speaks, and what rises from his heart is the Benedictus — a map for every disciple who wants to prepare a world for Christ. Join me for “A Franciscan Heart in the World” as we enter the last steps toward Christmas.

“When God Writes the Next Chapter Through Our Yes”

Luke 1:57–66. Sometimes God begins something new in us long after we thought our season had passed. In today’s Gospel, Zechariah and Elizabeth learn that grace doesn’t follow the timelines we set. Their yes — quiet, humble, offered late in life — becomes part of a story stretching across generations. And the same is true of our yes today.

The Visit We All Need

Luke 1:39-56 https://bible.usccb.org/bible/luke/1?26In this episode, we sit with Mary and Elizabeth, and with every moment in our own lives when a simple act of welcome becomes the doorway to grace. Join me as we explore how peace rises when love makes room for gratitude, and how the smallest human encounters can become our own Magnificat.