He has shown you, O mortal what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.

God views motherhood through the love of all those who participate in his purpose as a powerful and comforting force. That comforting force relies on Christ who is Hope. The God of Hope emphasizes the unconditional, never-ending nature of mothering, highlighting her or his capacity for strength, wisdom, and courage.

When Jesus spoke these words, he had just transformed the life of a man everybody had written off. Zacchaeus was a tax collector, known for his dishonesty and greed. In the eyes of the people, he was beyond saving.

This year appears to be a crisis of authority. Daily Breaking News inundates us with news reports that suggest ever increasing challenges dealing with economics, racism, intercultural relationships, birth rights and citizenship and beyond all understanding.

And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of our faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame. and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.