Homeless Catholic Community: Emails

The job or mission of Jesus was to do the Father’s will. Part of that was to develop an understanding of God’s will among the apostles and disciples, which would become the foundation of what we know as the church. Spreading the good news to the ends of the earth is a big job, and Jesus gave the apostles the words and faith they needed to be a part of that effort.

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Steve Leininger’s reflections: For our knowledge is imperfect and our prophecy is imperfect; but when the perfect comes, the imperfect will pass away. (1 Corinthians 13:9)

The Holy Spirit has been given the authority

‘Condemnation, because the ruler of this world has been condemned’

By John Pearring

Image by Ichigo121212

Click here to read John Pearring’s reflection from May 12, 2026. Here’s an excerpt:

Like a vice, the rescuing grip of God’s creation begins with Jesus’ life, death, resurrection, and ascension. The squeezing of evil’s juice from our world has been tightening for two thousand years. Soon, it will be completed. Sin will be excised, and righteousness will prevail.

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John Pearring’s reflections: He said to them, “Ask the master of the harvest to send out laborers for his harvest.” (Luke 10:2)

Are you receiving the daily Catholic Nutshell News?

You can read John Pearring’s books — Frank & Ralph, Snarl, and A Snarl Theology

You have been added to a list of individuals who attend the Wednesday Morning Prayer Group in Woodland Park, Colorado, as well as friends and writers who contribute reflections to the Homeless Catholic website and ministry, or those who wish to receive copies of our presentations from any of our reflection authors. The Homeless Catholic website includes reflections from John Pearring, Steve Hall, Steve Leininger, Lou Occhi, Tim Trainor, Norm McGraw, Ron Bruni, Steve Hessman, John Silvia, and Margit McCarthy.

Homeless Catholic Reflections 5/5/26

John Francis Pearring — Sun, 10 May 2026 13:50:03 GMT

See the latest Homeless Catholic reflections

NEW!

Steve Hall: There is only plan ‘A’

Older Reflections:

John Pearring: Embarrassing reveal of Paul’s sins

Steve Leininger: Who was Ezekiel?

Lou Occhi: They would not always have him

Tim Trainor: Aquinas explains the bronze serpent

Norm McGraw: A spiritual ‘Hi’ for everyone

Steve Hessman: Hear, listen, believe, and follow

Ron Bruni: When loving God becomes natural

Margit McCarthy: Temptation Trials in the Garden

Latest at ilk Publishing:

John Pearring: Frank & Ralph, Guardian Angels of Jesus

Margit McCarthy: Praying the rosary with your children

John Silvia: Kiss of Betrayal or Kiss of Love

There is only plan ‘A’

We know that in everything God works for good with those who love him

By Steve Hall

Image by Dominick Vietor

Click here to read Steve Hall’s reflection from May 5, 2026. Here’s an excerpt:

With little thought, we readily slide into alternatives. The road ahead has traffic stopped, so we take an alternate route. But God has no backup plan. There is only plan ‘A,’ and that one plan holds fast forever.

More …

Steve Hall’s reflections: For our knowledge is imperfect and our prophecy is imperfect; but when the perfect comes, the imperfect will pass away. (1 Corinthians 13:9)

Are you receiving the daily Catholic Nutshell News?

You can read John Pearring’s books — Frank & Ralph, Snarl, and A Snarl Theology

Homeless Catholic Reflections 4/28/26

John Francis Pearring — Sun, 03 May 2026 14:44:38 GMT

See the latest Homeless Catholic reflections

NEW!

Steve Hessman: Hear, listen, believe, and follow

Steve Hall: ‘Redemption is in Christ Jesus

Older Reflections:

John Pearring: Embarrassing reveal of Paul’s sins

Steve Leininger: Who was Ezekiel?

Lou Occhi: They would not always have him

Tim Trainor: Aquinas explains the bronze serpent

Norm McGraw: A spiritual ‘Hi’ for everyone

Ron Bruni: When loving God becomes natural

Margit McCarthy: Temptation Trials in the Garden

Latest at ilk Publishing:

John Pearring: Frank & Ralph, Guardian Angels of Jesus

Margit McCarthy: Praying the rosary with your children

John Silvia: Kiss of Betrayal or Kiss of Love

The OMG reflections from Steve Hessman & Steve Hall

Inspired by Mass readings from Tuesday, April 28, 2026

Hear, listen, believe, and follow

His detractors wanted an answer that they could use against Him

By Steve Hessman

Image by Robert Cheaib

Click here to read Steve Hessman’s reflection from April 28, 2026. Here’s an excerpt:

We are making up our minds about what they are saying even before they finish. That’s the nature of the world we live in. And this is why it is more important than ever to spend quiet time with Jesus and listen to Him with an open mind and an open heart. Not to listen for what we expect Him to say, but simply to listen. Let our minds be changed. Let our hearts be changed.

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Steve Hessman’s reflections: “Amen, Amen. Unless a grain of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains just a grain of wheat; but if it dies, it produces much fruit.” John 12:24

Redemption is in Christ Jesus

His willingness to die so we could have eternal life

By Steve Hall

Image by Myriams-Fotos

Click here to read Steve Hall’s reflection from April 28, 2026. Here’s an excerpt:

In the Book of Acts, we hear that a ‘great number’ or a ‘large number’ came to believe. The incident piqued my curiosity — not because people scattered in the face of persecution, nor because their message was received, but because it made me wonder what they actually said to those they met. Acts tells us in nonspecific terms that they were “preaching the word.” The details are not listed. So, what were they preaching?

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Steve Hall’s reflections: For our knowledge is imperfect and our prophecy is imperfect; but when the perfect comes, the imperfect will pass away. (1 Corinthians 13:9)

Are you receiving the daily Catholic Nutshell News?

You can read John Pearring’s books — Frank & Ralph, Snarl, and A Snarl Theology

Homeless Catholic Reflections 4/21/26

John Francis Pearring — Sun, 26 Apr 2026 15:02:08 GMT

See the latest Homeless Catholic reflections

NEW!

John Pearring: Embarrassing reveal of Paul’s sins

Older Reflections:

Steve Hall: ‘You must be born from above’

Steve Leininger: Who was Ezekiel?

Lou Occhi: They would not always have him

Tim Trainor: Aquinas explains the bronze serpent

Norm McGraw: A spiritual ‘Hi’ for everyone

Ron Bruni: When loving God becomes natural

Steve Hessman: Are Covenants important today?

Margit McCarthy: Temptation Trials in the Garden

Latest at ilk Publishing:

John Pearring: Frank & Ralph, Guardian Angels of Jesus

Margit McCarthy: Praying the rosary with your children

John Silvia: Kiss of Betrayal or Kiss of Love

The OMG reflection from John Pearring

Inspired by Mass readings from Tuesday, April 21, 2026

The embarrassing reveal of Paul’s sins

How God’s grace, mercy, and forgiveness brought Paul, Thomas, & Peter back to him

By John Pearring

Image by to Ketut Subiyanto

Click here to read John Pearring’s reflection from April 21, 2026. Here’s an excerpt:

The sinner’s lament is answered by the saint’s plea, because the sinner is he or she who becomes a saint. This is an important issue for Catholics — despite their holiness, the saints were human and capable of failure. The grace, mercy, and forgiveness of God led to their forgiveness.

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John Pearring’s reflections: He said to them, “Ask the master of the harvest to send out laborers for his harvest.” (Luke 10:2)

Are you receiving the daily Catholic Nutshell News?

You can read John Pearring’s books — Frank & Ralph, Snarl, and A Snarl Theology

Homeless Catholic Reflections 4/14/26

John Francis Pearring — Sun, 19 Apr 2026 21:13:49 GMT

See the latest Homeless Catholic reflections

NEW!

Ron Bruni: When loving God becomes natural

John Pearring: Nicodemus: A first-century saint

Steve Hall: ‘You must be born from above’

Older Reflections:

Steve Leininger: Who was Ezekiel?

Lou Occhi: They would not always have him

Tim Trainor: Aquinas explains the bronze serpent

Norm McGraw: A spiritual ‘Hi’ for everyone

Steve Hessman: Are Covenants important today?

Margit McCarthy: Temptation Trials in the Garden

Latest at ilk Publishing:

John Pearring: Frank & Ralph, Guardian Angels of Jesus

Margit McCarthy: Praying the rosary with your children

John Silvia: Kiss of Betrayal or Kiss of Love

The OMG reflections from Ron Bruni, John Pearring, & Steve Hall

Inspired by Mass readings from Tuesday, April 14, 2026

When loving God becomes natural

Let Christ be our Lord, and form us anew, from the inside

By Ron Bruni

Image by Chesna

Click here to read Ron Bruni’s reflection from April 14, 2026. Here’s an excerpt:

When “born from above,” a transformation occurs. We don’t crave the things we used to crave. Sin doesn’t have the same taste, we don’t want what we knew before. Love for God becomes natural, not forced, because you realize life without Him is unnatural. This is what it means to let Christ reign. When we surrender our need to be in control and let Christ be Lord, then we experience transformation.

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Ron Bruni’s reflections: “The hour is coming when I will no longer speak to you in figures of speech, but I will tell you clearly about the Father.” (John 16:25)

Nicodemus: A first-century saint

For all who seek to follow Christ faithfully and boldly

By John Pearring

Image by Copilot

Click here to read John Pearring’s reflection from April 14, 2026. Here’s an excerpt:

The criteria for designating a 1st Century saint usually begin with martyrdom, followed by records of a personal association with Jesus and a courageous act in defense of Jesus, the Church, or the apostolic community. In a sense, Nicodemus qualified for all four.

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John Pearring’s reflections: He said to them, “Ask the master of the harvest to send out laborers for his harvest.” (Luke 10:2)

‘You must be born from above’

God has made him both Lord and Christ

By Steve Hall

Image by Pexels

Click here to read Steve Hall’s reflection from April 14, 2026. Here’s an excerpt:

The very fact that I am a self-conscious individual necessitates that I have choices. This way or that? Up or down? Right or left? A “yes” always implies a “no.” Simple? Sure! And the persistent presence of that “no” is implied by the facts of consciousness and individuality. The inheritance of these characteristics plays a significant role in understanding the Gospel reading of the day.

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Steve Hall’s reflections: For our knowledge is imperfect and our prophecy is imperfect; but when the perfect comes, the imperfect will pass away. (1 Corinthians 13:9)

Are you receiving the daily Catholic Nutshell News?

You can read John Pearring’s books — Frank & Ralph, Snarl, and A Snarl Theology

Homeless Catholic Reflections 4/7/26

John Francis Pearring — Sun, 12 Apr 2026 13:36:01 GMT

See the latest Homeless Catholic reflections

NEW!

Norm McGraw: A spiritual ‘Hi’ for everyone

Steve Hall: Folks, don’t get distracted

Older Reflections:

John Pearring: Why God as one of us?

Steve Leininger: Who was Ezekiel?

Lou Occhi: They would not always have him

Tim Trainor: Aquinas explains the bronze serpent

Ron Bruni: Trials, not temptations from God

Steve Hessman: Are Covenants important today?

Margit McCarthy: Temptation Trials in the Garden

Latest at ilk Publishing:

John Pearring: Frank & Ralph, Guardian Angels of Jesus

Margit McCarthy: Praying the rosary with your children

John Silvia: Kiss of Betrayal or Kiss of Love

The OMG reflections from Norm McGraw & Steve Hall

Inspired by Mass readings from Tuesday, April 7, 2026

A spiritual ‘Hi’ for everyone

Salvation is for everyone, even for those who do not yet believe

By Norm McGraw

Image by Helmut H. Kroiss

Click here to read Norm McGraw’s reflection from April 7, 2025. Here’s an excerpt:

Not only is the spiritual “hi” we experience Easter week for everyone. God wishes that a profound connection with Him will strengthen every day in our lives. Then we will realize the truth in the words of Psalm 33 (included in Tuesday’s reading): “The earth is full of the goodness of God.”

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Norm McGraw’s reflections: He said to them, “Ask the master of the harvest to send out laborers for his harvest.” (Luke 10:2)

Folks, don’t get distracted

God has made him both Lord and Christ

By Steve Hall

Image by Gerd Altmann

Click here to read Steve Hall’s reflection from April 7, 2026. Here’s an excerpt:

People with a message to share will repeat it over and over again as their audience changes. And Peter’s message was both clear and concise. “Let the whole house of Israel know for certain that God has made him both Lord and Christ, this Jesus whom you crucified.”

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Steve Hall’s reflections: For our knowledge is imperfect and our prophecy is imperfect; but when the perfect comes, the imperfect will pass away. (1 Corinthians 13:9)

Are you receiving the daily Catholic Nutshell News?

You can read John Pearring’s books — Frank & Ralph, Snarl, and A Snarl Theology

Homeless Catholic Reflections 3/30/26

John Francis Pearring — Sun, 05 Apr 2026 19:46:17 GMT

See the latest Homeless Catholic reflections

NEW!

Lou Occhi: They would not always have him

John Silvia: Kiss of Betrayal or Kiss of Love

Older Reflections:

John Pearring: Why God as one of us?

Steve Hall: ‘Do you want to be well?’

Steve Leininger: Who was Ezekiel?

Tim Trainor: Aquinas explains the bronze serpent

Norm McGraw: ‘All in’ with God

Ron Bruni: Trials, not temptations from God

Steve Hessman: Are Covenants important today?

Margit McCarthy: Temptation Trials in the Garden

Latest at ilk Publishing:

John Pearring: Frank & Ralph, Guardian Angels of Jesus

Margit McCarthy: Praying the rosary with your children

The OMG reflections from Lou Occhi & John Silvia

Inspired by Mass readings from Monday, March 30, 2026 (& Good Friday)

They would not always have him

In pouring the oil on Jesus, Mary anointed him for burial

By Lou Occhi

Image by pau_noia0

Click here to read Lou Occhi’s reflection from March 30, 2026. Here’s an excerpt:

“The lord is my salvation, my light and my salvation” (Psalm 27). The verse tells us that there’s no need to be afraid. Even when evildoers come at me, or an army of camp encamp against me. Even then, I will trust in the Lord and that I shall see the bounty of the lord in the land of the living.

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Lou Occhi’s reflections: “The Almighty has done great things for me, and Holy is His name.” (The Magnificat)

A Kiss of Betrayal or a Kiss of Love

Choose Veneration or Betrayal - (Good Friday of the Lord’s Passion)

By John Silvia

Image by Bryan Welborn

Click here to read John Silvia’s reflection from April 3, 2026. Here’s an excerpt:

Good Friday is upon us. As I spent a couple of hours sitting with Jesus at the Altar of Repose tonight, I was reading from the Diary of St. Faustina, and a thought came to me, and I wanted to share it with you all. The power of the mouth.

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John Silvia’s reflections: Rejoice greatly, O daughter Zion! Shout aloud, O daughter Jerusalem! Lo, your king comes to you; triumphant and victorious is he, humble and riding on a donkey. (Zechariah 9:9)

Are you receiving the daily Catholic Nutshell News?

You can read John Pearring’s books — Frank & Ralph, Snarl, and A Snarl Theology

Homeless Catholic Reflections 3/24/26

John Francis Pearring — Sun, 29 Mar 2026 16:20:20 GMT

See the latest Homeless Catholic reflections

NEW!

Tim Trainor: Aquinas explains the bronze serpent

John Pearring: Why God as one of us?

Older Reflections:

Steve Hall: ‘Do you want to be well?’

Steve Leininger: Who was Ezekiel?

Lou Occhi: The plan for each of us

Norm McGraw: ‘All in’ with God

Ron Bruni: Trials, not temptations from God

Steve Hessman: Are Covenants important today?

Margit McCarthy: Temptation Trials in the Garden

Latest at ilk Publishing:

John Pearring: Frank & Ralph, Guardian Angels of Jesus

Margit McCarthy: Praying the rosary with your children

John Silvia: In honor of my father, Dave Silvia

The OMG reflections from Tim Trainor & John Pearring

Inspired by Mass readings from Tuesday, March 24, 2026

Aquinas explains the bronze serpent

The serpent on the pole was only a temporary fix for a temporary problem

By Tim Trainor

Microsofst Copilot AI of Moses' bronze serpent

Click here to read Tim Trainor’s reflection from March 24, 2026. Here’s an excerpt:

“He shows the manner of the passion when He, Jesus, says, so must the Son of Man be lifted up: and this refers to the lifting up of Him on the cross. So when it says, The Son of Man must be lifted up, it also says this to indicate the manner of his death.”

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Tim Trainor’s reflections: He said to him, “Follow me.” And leaving everything behind, he got up and followed him. (Luke 5:27)

Why did God decide to be one of us?

He planned all along to be among us, as shepherd, kin, king, victim, and redeemer.

By John Pearring

William-Adolphe Bouguereau (1825-1905) - The Flagellation of Our Lord Jesus Christ (1880)

Click here to read John Pearring’s reflection from March 24, 2026. Here’s an excerpt:

Why didn’t Jesus come as the King of the world among a powerful nation, and an exceptional throng of people that could influence a worldly empire, instead of riding upon a donkey? Perhaps the plan was to evolve differently, but the tribal people of God’s choosing weren’t up to that more expected, international, and glorious setting. The sorry story of a failed people and the violent death of their Messiah, though, sets up the background for what happened next. Death has been conquered.

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John Pearring’s reflections: He said to them, “Ask the master of the harvest to send out laborers for his harvest.” (Luke 10:2)

Are you receiving the daily Catholic Nutshell News?

You can read John Pearring’s books — Frank & Ralph, Snarl, and A Snarl Theology

Homeless Catholic Reflections 3/17/26

John Francis Pearring — Sun, 22 Mar 2026 18:03:31 GMT

See the latest Homeless Catholic reflections

NEW!

Steve Leininger: Who was Ezekiel?

Steve Hall: ‘Do you want to be well?’

Older Reflections:

John Pearring: Blink & breathe God’s forgiveness

Lou Occhi: The plan for each of us

Tim Trainor: Mary is on the ‘inside’

Norm McGraw: ‘All in’ with God

Ron Bruni: Trials, not temptations from God

Steve Hessman: Are Covenants important today?

Margit McCarthy: Temptation Trials in the Garden

Latest at ilk Publishing:

John Pearring: Frank & Ralph, Guardian Angels of Jesus

Margit McCarthy: Praying the rosary with your children

John Silvia: In honor of my father, Dave Silvia

The OMG reflections from Steve Leininger & Steve Hall

Inspired by Mass readings from Tuesday, March 17, 2026

Who was Ezekiel?

A vision, a miracle, and a Sabbath

By Steve Leininger

Image by yinet gomez

Click here to read Steve Leininger’s reflection from March 17, 2026. Here’s an excerpt:

The prophet Ezekiel is shown a vision of water flowing from the temple, which represents God’s presence and blessing. The water begins as a trickle and deepens as it flows eastward, eventually becoming a mighty river. This imagery is rich with symbolism, reflecting themes of life, healing, and divine provision. God’s influence starts as a trickle of water and, as we journey, it widens and deepens.

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Steve Leininger’s reflections: For our knowledge is imperfect and our prophecy is imperfect; but when the perfect comes, the imperfect will pass away. (1 Corinthians 13:9)

‘Do you want to be well?’

Jesus isn’t prone to asking dumb questions

By Steve Hall

Image by Usman Yousaf

Click here to read Steve Hall’s reflection from March 17, 2026. Here’s an excerpt:

Our readings for today tell two stories, stories of cups being full and stories of cups being empty. Actually, we hear of both full and empty in each story. Throughout life, we all share in highs and lows — the cup that overflows and the cup that seems bottomless in its emptiness.

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Steve Hall’s reflections: For our knowledge is imperfect and our prophecy is imperfect; but when the perfect comes, the imperfect will pass away. (1 Corinthians 13:9)

Are you receiving the daily Catholic Nutshell News?

You can read John Pearring’s books — Frank & Ralph, Snarl, and A Snarl Theology

Homeless Catholic Reflections 3/10/26

John Francis Pearring — Sun, 15 Mar 2026 15:56:20 GMT

See the latest Homeless Catholic reflections

NEW!

Steve Hall: The debtor’s empty cup

John Pearring: Blink & breathe God’s forgiveness

Older Reflections:

Steve Leininger: Sabbath was made for man

Lou Occhi: The plan for each of us

Tim Trainor: Mary is on the ‘inside’

Norm McGraw: ‘All in’ with God

Ron Bruni: Trials, not temptations from God

Steve Hessman: Are Covenants important today?

Margit McCarthy: Temptation Trials in the Garden

Latest at ilk Publishing:

John Pearring: Frank & Ralph, Guardian Angels of Jesus

Margit McCarthy: Praying the rosary with your children

John Silvia: In honor of my father, Dave Silvia

The OMG reflections from Steve Hall & John Pearring

Inspired by Mass readings from Tuesday, March 10, 2026

The debtor’s empty cup

Then suddenly ... his cup was full.

By Steve Hall

Image by JJ Jordan

Click here to read Steve Hall’s reflection from March 10, 2026. Here’s an excerpt:

More …

Steve Hall’s reflections: For our knowledge is imperfect and our prophecy is imperfect; but when the perfect comes, the imperfect will pass away. (1 Corinthians 13:9)

Blink and breathe in God’s forgiveness

Wash away that one sin which flashes in an unending stream of reruns

By John Pearring

Image by Hannah Williams

Click here to read John Pearring’s reflection from March 10, 2026. Here’s an excerpt:

We each have one sin that tortures us, insisting upon constant repentance. Most of us have more than one, doomed under a Gatlin gun of sorrows. We cower and hide, paranoid, unable to request, yet again, a worn-out “forgive me.” How do you put up with us, God? It must be the combined power of a trinity. “I want to smote him,” says one. “I’ve got this,” says another. “Good,” says the third person. “I tried everything in my power, and I’m moving on.”

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John Pearring’s reflections: He said to them, “Ask the master of the harvest to send out laborers for his harvest.” (Luke 10:2)

Are you receiving the daily Catholic Nutshell News?

You can read John Pearring’s books — Frank & Ralph, Snarl, and A Snarl Theology

Homeless Catholic Reflections 3/2/26

John Francis Pearring — Sun, 08 Mar 2026 16:32:23 GMT

See the latest Homeless Catholic reflections

NEW!

Steve Hessman: Are Covenants important today?

Older Reflections:

John Pearring: Temptations distract and derail

Steve Hall: It’s only words

Steve Leininger: Sabbath was made for man

Lou Occhi: The plan for each of us

Tim Trainor: Mary is on the ‘inside’

Norm McGraw: ‘All in’ with God

Ron Bruni: Trials, not temptations from God

Margit McCarthy: Temptation Trials in the Garden

Latest at ilk Publishing:

John Pearring: Frank & Ralph, Guardian Angels of Jesus

Margit McCarthy: Praying the rosary with your children

John Silvia: In honor of my father, Dave Silvia

The OMG reflection from Steve Hessman

Inspired by Mass readings from Monday, March 2, 2026

Are Covenants important today?

Contracts are based on a promise. Covenants are based upon swearing an oath.

By Steve Hessman

Image by Bernd

Click here to read Steve Hessman’s reflection from March 2, 2026. Here’s an excerpt:

A Covenant is irrevocable and is entered into with the agreement that it is permanently binding and cannot be dissolved. A contract, on the other hand, has provisions written into it to provide a means of dissolving the agreement if either party so desires. Scripture scholars have outlined five Covenants in the Old Testament and one in the New Testament.

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Steve Hessman’s reflections: “Amen, Amen. Unless a grain of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains just a grain of wheat; but if it dies, it produces much fruit.” John 12:24

Are you receiving the daily Catholic Nutshell News

You can read John Pearring’s books — Frank & Ralph, Snarl, and A Snarl Theology

Homeless Catholic Reflections 2/24/26

John Francis Pearring — Sun, 01 Mar 2026 16:44:50 GMT

See the latest Homeless Catholic reflections

NEW!

John Pearring: Temptations distract and derail

Steve Hall: It’s only words

Older Reflections:

Steve Leininger: Sabbath was made for man

Lou Occhi: The plan for each of us

Tim Trainor: Mary is on the ‘inside’

Norm McGraw: ‘All in’ with God

Ron Bruni: Trials, not temptations from God

Steve Hessman: The Greatest Miracle

Margit McCarthy: Temptation Trials in the Garden

Latest at ilk Publishing:

John Pearring: Frank & Ralph, Guardian Angels of Jesus

Margit McCarthy: Praying the rosary with your children

John Silvia: In honor of my father, Dave Silvia

The OMG reflections from John Pearring & Steve Hall

Inspired by Mass readings from Tuesday, February 24, 2026

The nuances of temptation distract and derail

Do not subject us to the final test, but deliver us from the evil one

By John Pearring

Click here to read John Pearring’s reflection from February 24, 2026. Here’s an excerpt:

Further study will help us go deeper into the Our Father prayer, a pure, rich, and divine treasure for Christians. Catholic theologians organize the Our Father into seven petitions, following the opening phrase — Our Father — which recognizes us in the presence of God as the Father of all. That’s the proper position to take in all prayer. “Our Father.” He is our protector and our intimate guide.

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John Pearring’s reflections: He said to them, “Ask the master of the harvest to send out laborers for his harvest.” (Luke 10:2)

It’s only words

Words are all I have to take your heart away

By Steve Hall

Image by g_grilli30

Click here to read Steve Hall’s reflection from February 24, 2026. Here’s an excerpt:

For those who originated the word, ‘logos’ can have the meanings “I put in order, I arrange, I gather, I choose, I count, I reckon, I discern, I say, I speak.” And behind all these connotations is the presumption of power — power to effect what I choose, order, and arrange.

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Steve Hall’s reflections: For our knowledge is imperfect and our prophecy is imperfect; but when the perfect comes, the imperfect will pass away. (1 Corinthians 13:9)

Are you receiving the daily Catholic Nutshell News

You can read John Pearring’s books — Frank & Ralph, Snarl, and A Snarl Theology

Homeless Catholic Reflections 2/17/26

John Francis Pearring — Sun, 22 Feb 2026 19:25:11 GMT

See the latest Homeless Catholic reflections

NEW!

Ron Bruni: Trials, not temptations from God

John Pearring: Jesus used boats for miracles

Steve Hall: No man’s eye has ever seen

Older Reflections:

Steve Leininger: Sabbath was made for man

Lou Occhi: The plan for each of us

Tim Trainor: Mary is on the ‘inside’

Norm McGraw: ‘All in’ with God

Steve Hessman: The Greatest Miracle

Margit McCarthy: Temptation Trials in the Garden

Latest at ilk Publishing:

John Pearring: Frank & Ralph, Guardian Angels of Jesus

Margit McCarthy: Praying the rosary with your children

John Silvia: In honor of my father, Dave Silvia

The OMG reflections from Ron Bruni, John Pearring, & Steve Hall

Inspired by Mass readings from Tuesday, February 17, 2026

Trials are not temptations from God

He strengthens our faith through trial

By Ron Bruni

Image by StockSnap

Click here to read Ron Bruni’s reflection from February 17, 2026. Here’s an excerpt:

Their real problem was not a lack of bread in Tuesday’s reading on the Apostles in the boat, but spiritual amnesia: forgetting what Jesus had already done. But he doesn’t rebuke them for lacking bread; he rebukes them for lacking memory. Today’s passages confront what seems like a common human struggle: forgetting God’s faithfulness when pressure mounts and mistaking hardship for abandonment rather than for formation. But when you think about it, this is not just their story, it’s ours.

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Ron Bruni’s reflections: “The hour is coming when I will no longer speak to you in figures of speech, but I will tell you clearly about the Father.” (John 16:25)

Jesus used boats for some amazing miracles

That’s no big deal, because he was God, but — Jesus was God!

By John Pearring

Image by Gordon Johnson

Click here to read John Pearring’s reflection from February 17, 2026. Here’s an excerpt:

The call for his apostles to be fishers of men was Jesus’ central metaphor, rather than riffing on accountants, lawyers, carpenters, or well diggers. He could have come up with a great analogy for a baker of bread (nothing great comes to mind), but he chose men of boats instead. Jesus used boats and sandals like anyone else, and he morphed into God from within the same reality as us. It confirms to us that his promise to return and resurrect us is assured.

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John Pearring’s reflections: He said to them, “Ask the master of the harvest to send out laborers for his harvest.” (Luke 10:2)

No man’s eye has ever seen ...

... what God has prepared for those who love him

By Steve Hall

Image by ha11ok

Click here to read Steve Hall’s reflection from February 17, 2026. Here’s an excerpt:

“What eye has not seen? And what ear has not heard? And what divine marvels have not entered the human heart? So as to give us the power to recognize, when that time comes, what God has prepared for those who love him.”

More …

Steve Hall’s reflections: For our knowledge is imperfect and our prophecy is imperfect; but when the perfect comes, the imperfect will pass away. (1 Corinthians 13:9)

Are you receiving the daily Catholic Nutshell News

You can read John Pearring’s books — Frank & Ralph, Snarl, and A Snarl Theology

Homeless Catholic Reflections 2/10/26

John Francis Pearring — Sun, 15 Feb 2026 17:00:51 GMT

See the latest Homeless Catholic reflections

NEW!

Norm McGraw: ‘All in’ with God

Steve Hall: Topsy-Turvy

Older Reflections:

John Pearring: The guardian angels of Jesus

Steve Leininger: Sabbath was made for man

Lou Occhi: The plan for each of us

Tim Trainor: Mary is on the ‘inside’

Ron Bruni: From zeal to hope in Christ

Steve Hessman: The Greatest Miracle

Margit McCarthy: Temptation Trials in the Garden

Latest at ilk Publishing:

John Pearring: Frank & Ralph, Guardian Angels of Jesus

Steve Hall: Forming a fellowship - Chapter 1

John Silvia: In honor of my father, Dave Silvia

The OMG reflections from Norm McGraw & Steve Hall

Inspired by Mass readings from Tuesday, February 10, 2026

‘All in’ with God

Our Creator is “all in” for us

By Norm McGraw

Altar of Saint Scholastica

Click here to read Norm McGraw’s reflection from February 10, 2025. Here’s an excerpt:

Tuesday’s readings and St. Scholastica’s life illustrate how to strengthen our relationship with God. Every time we pray, every time we help a family member, a friend, a neighbor, or a stranger, we grow closer to Him. After all, our Creator’s “all in” for us.

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Norm McGraw’s reflections: He said to them, “Ask the master of the harvest to send out laborers for his harvest.” (Luke 10:2)

Topsy-Turvy

Sometimes we get things backward, or upside down, or inside out.

By Steve Hall

Click here to read Steve Hall’s reflection from February 10, 2026. Here’s an excerpt:

The Gospel reading follows a different line. It pits the Law given to Moses by God against the laws given by the Pharisees to the People of God. According to the practice of the day, sanctity was to be achieved by following what men had decided on. In that legal opposition, we see the crux of the problem.

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Steve Hall’s reflections: For our knowledge is imperfect and our prophecy is imperfect; but when the perfect comes, the imperfect will pass away. (1 Corinthians 13:9)

Are you receiving the daily Catholic Nutshell News

You can read John Pearring’s books — Frank & Ralph, Snarl, and A Snarl Theology

Homeless Catholic Reflections 2/3/26

John Francis Pearring — Sun, 08 Feb 2026 15:43:16 GMT

See the latest Homeless Catholic reflections

NEW!

Lou Occhi: The plan for each of us

John Pearring: The guardian angels of Jesus

Older Reflections:

Steve Hall: David danced in public

Steve Leininger: Sabbath was made for man

Tim Trainor: Mary is on the ‘inside’

Norm McGraw: God is watching

Ron Bruni: From zeal to hope in Christ

Steve Hessman: The Greatest Miracle

Margit McCarthy: Temptation Trials in the Garden

Latest at ilk Publishing:

John Pearring: Frank & Ralph, Guardian Angels of Jesus

Steve Hall: Forming a fellowship - Chapter 1

John Silvia: In honor of my father, Dave Silvia

The OMG reflections from Lou Occhi & John Pearring

Inspired by Mass readings from Tuesday, February 3, 2026

What is the plan for each of us?

Our strengths and weaknesses are to be used in the service of the Lord.

By Lou Occhi

Image by NoName_13

Click here to read Lou Occhi’s reflection from February 3, 2026. Here’s an excerpt:

We may not feel like it, but we are “made glorious in the sight of the Lord and our God is now our strength.” We are to be “a light to the nations.” How are we a light to the nations? Individually, we are not. Put enough of us together, and we will produce plenty of light.

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Lou Occhi’s reflections: “The Almighty has done great things for me, and Holy is His name.” (The Magnificat)

Frank & Ralph: The guardian angels of Jesus

They don’t fit into the angelic host network like everyday angels

By John Pearring

Frank & Ralph image adapted from Meridy Scott from Pixabay

Click here to read John Pearring’s reflection from February 3, 2026. Here’s an excerpt:

Frank and Ralph are the most fascinating angels in all of creation. They have no shame, which you would expect, but since they’re bumping up against the rest of the angels, you’d think they would crumble from the disdain. I suspect that when you meet them, you’ll want to write a story about them, too.

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John Pearring’s reflections: He said to them, “Ask the master of the harvest to send out laborers for his harvest.” (Luke 10:2)

Are you receiving the daily Catholic Nutshell News?

You can read John Pearring’s books — Frank & Ralph, Snarl, and A Snarl Theology

Homeless Catholic Reflections 1/27/26

John Francis Pearring — Sun, 01 Feb 2026 16:02:04 GMT

See the latest Homeless Catholic reflections

NEW!

Tim Trainor: Mary is on the ‘inside’

Steve Hall: David danced in public

Older Reflections:

John Pearring: Jesus’ divinity is astonishing

Steve Leininger: Sabbath was made for man

Lou Occhi: We are just like them ...

Norm McGraw: God is watching

Ron Bruni: From zeal to hope in Christ

Steve Hessman: The Greatest Miracle

Margit McCarthy: Temptation Trials in the Garden

Latest at ilk Publishing:

John Pearring: Frank & Ralph, Guardian Angels of Jesus

Steve Hall: Forming a fellowship - Chapter 1

John Silvia: In honor of my father, Dave Silvia

The OMG reflections from Tim Trainor & Steve Hall

Inspired by Mass readings from Tuesday, January 27, 2026

Mary is definitely on the ‘inside’

She was with Him from the beginning to the very end

By Tim Trainor

Image by heinemann3

Click here to read Tim Trainor’s reflection from January 27, 2026. Here’s an excerpt:

Jesus is clearly saying here that being on the “inside” is not just a matter of location but of relationship. That relationship is not by blood, but by identification with “the Way” that Jesus is teaching them. To be a Christian is to enter a new family with stronger ties than those of blood, where everyone is seen as a brother or sister.

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Tim Trainor’s reflections: He said to him, “Follow me.” And leaving everything behind, he got up and followed him. (Luke 5:27)

David danced in public – unfit for a king?

Are we embarrassed to honor Jesus in the public square?

By Steve Hall

Image by Jill Wellington

Click here to read Steve Hall’s reflection from January 27, 2026. Here’s an excerpt:

Michal was embarrassed that the King, her husband, had made a spectacle of himself by dancing in public. You can almost hear her disgust as she exclaims: “We hire people for that!” But David’s response is unequivocal: “I will make merry before the Lord.”

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Steve Hall’s reflections: For our knowledge is imperfect and our prophecy is imperfect; but when the perfect comes, the imperfect will pass away. (1 Corinthians 13:9)

Are you receiving the daily Catholic Nutshell News?

You can read John Pearring’s books — Frank & Ralph, Snarl, and A Snarl Theology

Homeless Catholic Reflections 1/20/26

John Francis Pearring — Sun, 25 Jan 2026 15:34:34 GMT

See the latest Homeless Catholic reflections

NEW!

Steve Leininger: Sabbath was made for man

Older Reflections:

John Pearring: Jesus’ divinity is astonishing

Steve Hall: Why do we do good?

Lou Occhi: We are just like them ...

Norm McGraw: God is watching

Tim Trainor: From faith to faith

Ron Bruni: From zeal to hope in Christ

Steve Hessman: The Greatest Miracle

Margit McCarthy: Temptation Trials in the Garden

Latest at ilk Publishing:

John Pearring: Frank & Ralph, Guardian Angels of Jesus

Steve Hall: Forming a fellowship - Chapter 1

John Silvia: In honor of my father, Dave Silvia

The OMG reflection from Steve Leininger

Inspired by Mass readings from Tuesday, January 20, 2026

The sabbath was made for man, not man for the sabbath

The gift made for us, to do the things that are good in the sight of God the Father.

By Steve Leininger

Image by falco

Click here to read Steve Leininger’s reflection from January 20, 2026. Here’s an excerpt:

David wins Saul’s approval and is made harpist and armor-bearer for Saul. Do you remember the story of David and Goliath? That happened next. David 1, Goliath 0. David is praised by the people as the ultimate warrior, which makes Saul insanely jealous.

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Steve Leininger’s reflections: For our knowledge is imperfect and our prophecy is imperfect; but when the perfect comes, the imperfect will pass away. (1 Corinthians 13:9)

Are you receiving the daily Catholic Nutshell News?

You can read John Pearring’s books — Frank & Ralph, Snarl, and A Snarl Theology

Homeless Catholic Reflections 1/13/26

John Francis Pearring — Sun, 18 Jan 2026 19:46:20 GMT

See the latest Homeless Catholic reflections

NEW!

Steve Hall: Why do we do good?

John Pearring: Jesus’ divinity is astonishing

Older Reflections:

Steve Leininger: Time’s up!

Lou Occhi: We are just like them ...

Norm McGraw: God is watching

Tim Trainor: From faith to faith

Ron Bruni: From zeal to hope in Christ

Steve Hessman: The Greatest Miracle

Margit McCarthy: Temptation Trials in the Garden

Latest at ilk Publishing:

John Pearring: Frank & Ralph, Guardian Angels of Jesus

Steve Hall: Forming a fellowship - Chapter 1

John Silvia: In honor of my father, Dave Silvia

The OMG reflections from Steve Hall & John Pearring

Inspired by Mass readings from Tuesday, January 13, 2026

Why do we do the good that we do?

“For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works”

By Steve Hall

Image by Leroy Skalstad

Click here to read Steve Hall’s reflection from January 13, 2026. Here’s an excerpt:

Do we really believe that “a person who is generally good, or does enough good things for others, will earn a place in Heaven?” Rather, “Whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him” (Colossians 3:17).

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Steve Hall’s reflections: For our knowledge is imperfect and our prophecy is imperfect; but when the perfect comes, the imperfect will pass away. (1 Corinthians 13:9)

Jesus’ divinity is astonishing

“Where did this man get such wisdom and miraculous powers?”

By John Pearring

Image by Myriams-Fotos

Click here to read John Pearring’s reflection from January 13, 2026. Here’s an excerpt:

We tease the Pharisees about their poor grasp of Jesus’ divinity. How did they not see it? Consider, however, that the divine natures evident in Jesus rattled them to the core. A man cannot be God. This was their understanding, a foundational definition of who God must be, and who we are not.

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John Pearring’s reflections: He said to them, “Ask the master of the harvest to send out laborers for his harvest.” (Luke 10:2)

Are you receiving the daily Catholic Nutshell News?

You can read John Pearring’s books — Frank & Ralph, Snarl, and A Snarl Theology

Homeless Catholic Reflections 1/6/26

John Francis Pearring — Sun, 11 Jan 2026 16:06:34 GMT

See the latest Homeless Catholic reflections

NEW!

Steve Hessman: The Greatest Miracle

Steve Hall: Jesus is focal point of creation

Older Reflections:

John Pearring: Fathers who have known God

Steve Leininger: Time’s up!

Lou Occhi: We are just like them ...

Norm McGraw: God is watching

Tim Trainor: From faith to faith

Ron Bruni: From zeal to hope in Christ

Margit McCarthy: Temptation Trials in the Garden

Latest at ilk Publishing:

John Pearring: Frank & Ralph, Guardian Angels of Jesus

Steve Hall: Forming a fellowship - Chapter 1

John Silvia: In honor of my father, Dave Silvia

The OMG reflections from Steve Hessman & Steve Hall

Inspired by Mass readings from Tuesday, January 6, 2026

The Greatest Miracle

“Behold, the Lamb of God!”

By Steve Hessman

Image by msmarroquin

Click here to read Steve Hessman’s reflection from January 6, 2026. Here’s an excerpt:

The great event of all history is that moment when Jesus allowed his own death on the cross. His death and subsequent resurrection constitute the event that institutes the Eucharist and ushers in the final stage of salvation history, the Church.

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Steve Hessman’s reflections: “Amen, Amen. Unless a grain of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains just a grain of wheat; but if it dies, it produces much fruit.” John 12:24

Jesus: Focal point of creation & epicenter of time

At the core and heart of all, we find Jesus

By Steve Hall

Image by amurca

Click here to read Steve Hall’s reflection from January 6, 2026. Here’s an excerpt:

A bountiful meal of rich wines and juicy meats became a commonly recalled image of the coming of the messiah, the establishment of the Kingdom, and the final act in which slavery would be abolished. It comes as no surprise, then, that the multiplication of the loaves and fish would recall that image.

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Steve Hall’s reflections: For our knowledge is imperfect and our prophecy is imperfect; but when the perfect comes, the imperfect will pass away. (1 Corinthians 13:9)

Are you receiving the daily Catholic Nutshell News?

You can read John Pearring’s books — Frank & Ralph, Snarl, and A Snarl Theology

Homeless Catholic Reflections 12/30/25

John Francis Pearring — Sun, 04 Jan 2026 17:04:57 GMT

See the latest Homeless Catholic reflections

NEW!

John Pearring: Fathers who have known God

Steve Hall: Waiting for the now

Older Reflections:

Steve Leininger: Time’s up!

Lou Occhi: We are just like them ...

Norm McGraw: God is watching

Tim Trainor: From faith to faith

Ron Bruni: From zeal to hope in Christ

Steve Hessman: Serve others than yourself

Margit McCarthy: Temptation Trials in the Garden

Latest at ilk Publishing:

John Pearring: Frank & Ralph, Guardian Angels of Jesus

Steve Hall: Forming a fellowship - Chapter 1

John Silvia: In honor of my father, Dave Silvia

The OMG reflections from John Pearring & Steve Hall

Inspired by Mass readings from Tuesday, December 30, 2025

Fathers who have known God from the beginning

Those brought up without pretentious designs, fakery, & do not first love the world

By John Pearring

Image by Nowaja

Click here to read John Pearring’s reflection from December 30, 2025. Here’s an excerpt:

The young have new passions and are excited when the Spirit fills them. Their primary task is conquering the misdirections of the Evil One. This is the time to win this battle. It’s much harder if youth are poorly formed as adolescents and struggle to become God-fearing and holy men and women later in life.

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John Pearring’s reflections: He said to them, “Ask the master of the harvest to send out laborers for his harvest.” (Luke 10:2)

Waiting for the now

‘Now’ is where we meet and engage with God

By Steve Hall

Image by StockSnap

Click here to read Steve Hall’s reflection from December 30, 2025. Here’s an excerpt:

Anna was one of many who recognized the need to stand and wait. Not waiting with emptiness, but with growth. Not waiting with inactivity, but with preparation. Waiting for the now when they would know what to do.

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Steve Hall’s reflections: For our knowledge is imperfect and our prophecy is imperfect; but when the perfect comes, the imperfect will pass away. (1 Corinthians 13:9)