The 56 essays in this book present cultural reflections on the Gospel reading assigned for each Sunday in Cycle A of the Roman Lectionary. Each essay highlights aspects of the first century, Eastern Mediterranean cultural world in which Jesus lived, and suggests a cross-cultural comparison with contemporary Western culture. With this background information, readers can make more fitting applications of the Scripture to modern life situations. Used as a teaching aid in preaching, Lectionary-based catechesis or scripture study, or for the interest and knowledge it brings, this book should add form and substance to the understanding of "the Word that dwelt among us." John Pilch is the author of "Galatians and Romans" ("Collegeville Bible Commentary").