This book explains each Sunday's gospel reading at mass; that is, each of the book's essays means to show what the author wanted to convey to his audience through his writing. These essays, intentionally kept brief, are not homilies, but they clarify the evangelist's mind and intention in his gospel preaching. We hope that this book will help the Catholic, whether in the pew or in the pulpit, to appreciate the wisdom of each Sunday's gospel.