The readings for this homily: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/021626.cfm
Father Chris Alar, MIC, reminds us of a truth the world constantly tries to obscure: Your soul is immortal — and it matters more than anything you own, achieve, or experience in this life. Jesus asks a question that cuts through every distraction: “What does it profit a man to gain the whole world and lose his soul?”
We spend enormous energy protecting our bodies, careers, reputations, and comfort. But how attentive are we to the state of our soul? Physical suffering, financial loss, or public misunderstanding may wound us temporarily. Mortal sin wounds eternally. And yet, in His mercy, Christ never leaves us without remedy.
Through Confession, the Eucharist, and Eucharistic Adoration, the Divine Physician continues to pour out the same healing grace that flowed from His pierced Heart. No sin is too great for His mercy. The only true tragedy is refusing the grace that is offered.
Father Chris challenges us not to live casually, but consciously — aware that eternity is not abstract. It is approaching. The saints understand this. They live with urgency, not anxiety; conviction, not fear of creatures. They knew that losing everything in this world is survivable. Losing your soul is not.
Run to mercy. Stay in the state of grace. Nourish your soul. And remember: The Lord desires your salvation even more than you do.
The readings for this homily: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/021526.cfm
If you have ever wondered where some of our most treasured Christmas traditions originated, you’ll be surprised to learn that many of them, including the Christmas tree and even Santa Claus, began from Catholic roots. Join Fr. Chris Alar, MIC, as he shares some stories about the traditions of Christmas.
Fr. Chris Alar explains how we got the traditions of the Christmas tree, candles in windows, tinsel, the 12 days of Christmas, and more.