A lot is stirring in today’s readings, and it’s all being stirred by the Holy Spirit.

Many of us have a relative who knows everything—or is at least convinced that he or she does. This person will be the first to tell you what’s wrong with the current economy and how to right it; what the president should be doing with our tax dollars; what crucial decisions the pope should make to keep the church on track; how crime can be brought to a halt, wars won, disease eliminated, renewable energy sources found, and environmental extinction averted.

There once was a man, his name John, sent by God to point out the way to the Life-Light. He came to show everyone where to look, who to believe in. John was not himself the Light; he was there to show the way to the Light.

“If you don’t want to change your life, then don’t do this.” I was half-listening to a Catholic podcast while cleaning my house, but my ears perked up. I’ll admit, at my age, big change sounds like too much work, but still I wanted to know, what was it that could change my life?

I was at a holiday party standing around the chips and dip with a number of people, most of whom I hadn’t met before. We were enjoying lively conversation about movies, politics, and current events. Then one of the people made a pointed comment about capital punishment.

Lord Jesus, you are the light of the world. Help us to walk in your light.

I see Mary everywhere. I see difficulties nowhere.