Author Archives: billtonnis

Psalm 149:4 For the Lord takes delight in his people, honors the poor with victory. While the consumeristic culture urges us to add more to our lives…amass more and more wealth, power and prestige…the inner spirit urges us to do … Continue reading →

Psalm 33:3,9 Sing to God a new song; skillfully play with joyful chant. For he spoke, and it came to be, commanded, and it stood in place. There is reason to sing for joy! God loves all of creation…and that … Continue reading →

Mark 10:43 “Whoever wishes to be great among you will be your servant.” Two of the apostles had just boldly asked Jesus to allow them to sit at his right and left when he comes into glory. They were expressing … Continue reading →

Mark 10:29-30 Jesus said, “Amen, I say to you, there is no one who has given up house or brothers or sisters or mother or father or children or lands for my sake and for the sake of the gospel … Continue reading →

Mark 10:21 Jesus, looking at him, loved him and said to him, “You are lacking in one thing. Go, sell what you have, and give to the poor and you will have treasure in heaven; then come, follow me.” This … Continue reading →

Sirach 6:14-15 A faithful friend is a sturdy shelter; he who finds one finds a treasure. A faithful friend is beyond price, no sum can balance his worth. Take a moment to cherish any true friendship you may have. Such … Continue reading →

Mark 9:43 “If your hand causes you to sin, cut it off. It is better for you to enter into life maimed than with two hands to go into Gehenna, into the unquenchable fire.” Jesus used hyperbole…an exaggeration…to make his … Continue reading →

Mark 9:38 John said to him, “Teacher, we saw someone driving out demons in your name, and we tried to prevent him because he does not follow us.” You’ve got to love the apostles as they all give us hope! … Continue reading →

Psalm 23:4 Even when I walk through a dark valley, I fear no harm for you are at my side. Life is filled with ups and downs. I am basking in the glow of an amazing high school retreat…and yet … Continue reading →

Mark 8:35 “For whoever wishes to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake and that of the gospel will save it.” Jesus often expresses a paradox…defined as “a seemingly contradictory statement that may … Continue reading →