Bible Reflections I 01.01.2022 - Saturday I Indraya Manna I

Christmas Octave

Readings 

           I - Num. 6: 22-27

          II - Gal. 4: 4-7

         III – Lk. 2: 16-21

MARY, MOTHER OF GOD (Solemnity)

                  

Today the Church celebrates the feast of Mary, Mother of God. God descended from his divinity taking up the human form in or to make all of us ascend into that Kingdom with the honour of the children of God in Christ Jesus our Lord. This was possible only through Mary, the blessed one, full of grace, the pride of Israel and the honour of human race. Besides being mother of God, she is our mother as well given by Jesus, her son. It is befitting to begin the brand new year 2022 with the blessings, assistance, accompaniment and guidance of our Blessed Mother.  

God in His graciousness has gifted us with New Year enwrapped with new visions, hopes, dreams, possibilities, challenges, vigour and enthusiasm; and with the blessed assurance, “I am with you always” (Mt. 28: 20). Mary is a blessing to the human race, during this New Year resolve to be a blessing to everyone we meet. There is hymn to mother Mary that has this particular verse: “All roads lead to Jesus when you take her hand”. Hold the loving hand of our Blessed mother, may all that we accomplish become a blessing to others and an offering pleasing to God; and that thereby our lives may become an unending hymn of glory and praise to our Father in Heaven. Let us begin this New Year 2022, with Jesus, our Lord, Mary, our mother and St. Joseph, our protector. Repeat this prayer in the silence of hearts as often as possible and entrust the year into the loving hands of the Lord through our Blessed Mother: “Mary, Mother of God and our Mother, Pray for us”  

A New Year wishes to all of you. May this year flood your life with the graces and blessings of the Lord, all for His greater glory.

Bible Reflections I 31.12.2021 - Friday I Indraya Manna I

Christmas Octave

Readings 

           I - 1Jn. 2: 18-21

          II - Jn. 1: 1-18

THANK YOU LORD

                  

We are in the last day of the year 2021 that accounts and vouches for all the graces, blessings and the benevolence of the Lord.  Yes,

“Count your many blessings; name them one by one, 

And it will surprise you what the Lord has done”

Every incident, every happening and every event: the joys and sorrows; the ups and downs; efforts and attempts; success and challenges; and sufferings and solace were meticulously wrapped with the graces and blessings of the Lord besides being branded with His benevolent love for us.  Take some time today to be in solitude but in the company of the Lord and try to count all His blessings one by one, then can you feel your heart throbbing with sentiments of  gratitude  constantly repeating “Thank you Lord”. At the same time, regret not for the opportunities missed, wilful acts of negligence, lethargicness, slackness in accomplishing the good, lapsed relationships because of our ego, indifferentism and misunderstanding and wrong choices made. Thank God for bringing these setbacks to our memory so that we can better ourselves to become disciplined disciples of Jesus our Master.  

In the Gospel passage of the day we read: “From his fullness we have all received, graces upon grace”.  May we take this day as an opportunity to thank the Lord and pray for His graces for the upcoming new year, to stand firm in our resolutions to live up to our Christian vocation true to the identity of the children of God. Let our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “Thank you Lord”.

Bible Reflections I 30.12.2021 - Thursday I Indraya Manna I

Christmas Octave

Readings 

           I - 1Jn. 2: 12-17

          II - Lk. 2: 36-40

KEEP THE LORD EVER BEFORE YOUR EYES

                  

In the first reading of the day, St. John exhorts the children of God to abstain from the desire of the flesh, the desire of the eyes and pride in the riches of this world that are short lived and passing away; and on the other hand, he instructs to do the will of God and live forever. A perfect example to this teaching can be picked up from the Gospel passage of the day: Anna. She never left the temple, worshipped there with fasting and prayer, all through night and day. And finally was rewarded with the privilege of seeing the promised one as he was brought to the temple to be presented.  

We need not be present 24X7 in the temple, night and day, fasting and praying like Anna, while it is quite impossible as well. But as St. John exhorts, can have the Lord ever before our eyes and be focused in seeking and accomplishing His will. If we conduct our lives in this way, we will be graced to recognise him as He comes to meet us, to take us to Himself and live forever with Him in that Kingdom beholding His glory and singing forever ‘Holy’ along with His angels and saints. Let our mind and heart throughout the day resonate with the prayer: “Lord Jesus, give us the wisdom to know you will and the courage to accomplish the same.

Bible Reflections I 29.12.2021 - Wednesday I Indraya Manna I

Christmas Octave

Readings 

           I - 1Jn. 2: 3-11

          II - Lk. 2: 22-35

St. Thomas Becket, Bishop, Martyr (Memorial) 

SUBMIT UNTO THE WAYS OF THE LORD

                  

The Gospel passage of the day invites us to reflect upon: submission to the Law of the Lord, Submission to the promises of the Lord and submission to the Will of the Lord.  In submission to the Law of the Lord, the parents of Jesus presented their first born in the temple offering a pair of doves as prescribed by the Law.  In submission to the promises of the Lord, Simeon waited patiently in the temple to behold the deliverer, the consolation of Israel, the Messiah; and recognised him as he was brought even as a babe into the temple by his parents.  In submission to the will of God, Mary gave no response to the prophecy of Simeon: “…And a sword will pierce your own soul too”; but kept all these things and pondered them in her heart (Lk. 2: 19).  

Submission unto the ways of the Lord is the hallmark of Christian living. Submission bases humility, simplicity, trust, faith and confidence in the Lord.  May this Gospel passage enlighten, enkindle and enthuse us to live like the parents of Jesus in submitting ourselves to the Law of the Lord: Love; like Simeon, to submit ourselves unto the promises of the Lord and like our Blessed Mother, to submit ourselves to the Will of the Lord and that would be our best gift to him during this season of Christmas.  

Today the Church celebrates the feast of St. Thomas Becket, Archbishop of Canterbury.  He was martyred because he preferred to submit himself unto the ways of the Lord than to the order of the king of Canterbury.  Through the intercession of this saint let us ask God to give us the courage and humility to submit ourselves unto His ways as we keep in the silence of our hearts keep repeating this prayer: “Lord Jesus, teach us to submit ourselves unto your ways”.

Bible Reflections I 18.12.2021 - Saturday I Indraya Manna I

A NEW AND GREATER THING

“The days will come, says the Lord, when they will no longer say, ‘As the Lord lives, Who brought the Israelites out of the land of Egypt’; but rather, ‘As the Lord lives, Who brought the descendants of the house of Israel up from the land of the north.’ ” —Jeremiah 23:7-8

The Exodus was looked upon by the people of Israel as the greatest miracle. God split the Red Sea, with a wall of water to the right and to the left, so the Israelites could safely cross through the sea on dry land and thus escape from the Egyptian army (Ex 14:21-31). God protected His people with wonder-working power.

Then the worst disaster occurred. God’s people abandoned Him, and He allowed their enemies to defeat them, destroy the Temple, and exile them to Babylon (2 Chr 36:17ff). Would God no longer protect His people? Decades later, in yet another unimaginable event, King Cyrus of Persia conquered Babylon, liberated the Israelites, and encouraged the exiles to return to Jerusalem and rebuild the Temple (Ezr 1:1ff). Jeremiah had prophesied that God would bring His people out of exile, and it would be such a great miracle that future Israelites would speak of the return from exile rather than the Exodus (Jer 23:7-8).

Yet God was not finished working wonders for His people. The Father sent Jesus to liberate His people and make all things new (Is 43:19). No longer would we speak of the Exodus or the return from exile as God’s greatest miracle. God sent His only begotten Son to become flesh and dwell among us (Jn 1:14).

Is your life in ruins? Do you believe God will no longer act on your behalf? God is not finished working wonders for His people. Receive the Christ of Christmas, and believe God is at work.

Prayer:  Father, I believe nothing is impossible with You (Lk 1:37).

Promise:  Jesus “will save His people from their sins.” —Mt 1:21

Praise:  “O sacred Lord of ancient Israel, Who showed Yourself to Moses in the burning bush, Who gave him the holy law on Sinai mountain: come, stretch out Your mighty hand to set us free.”

Courtesy from "One Bread, One Body".

Bible Reflections I 17.12.2021 - Friday I Rev. Fr. Arokia Doss SDB I Indraya Manna I

Advent: Week 3

Readings 

           I - Gen. 49: 8-10

          II - Mt. 1: 1-17

GOD IS GREAT

                  

God can write straight with crooked lines. The power of God can surpass the weakness of human beings. When the light enters the darkness is dispelled. Today’s Gospel passage is about the genealogy of Jesus. None of the human weakness and sinfulness prevented God from sending His only Son, the promised one in the prophesied race. From the imperfect generation God chose a just and a righteous man Joseph and a woman filled with grace Mary, to keep his promise. In every generation there were men and women to guide, lead and direct the hearts of people towards God, trying to turn every heart towards God.  

The Gospel passage of the day throws light to reflect on present generation of this time. We do have people to help, guide, lead and direct us towards the God, the One, truth and beauty. The season of advent is an opportunity to turn our hearts towards God. May we with the help given try to become just, righteous and grace filled persons like St. Joseph and Mother Mary for God to accomplish his plan for the human kind - The Kingdom of God. For the benevolence of God and with our exemplary living strive to gather all the sheep into that sheepfold under one shepherd realising the dream of Jesus, the Kingdom of God. God can use us, the weak beings into effective instruments in building up His Kingdom. Surrender and commit your lives into the loving hands of God. May our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “Lord Jesus, teach me to yield myself unto you”

Bible Reflections I 16.12.2021 - Thursday I Indraya Manna I

Advent: Week 3

Readings 

           I - Is. 54: 1-10

          II - Lk. 7: 24-30

MAY YOUR KINGDOM COME

                  

In today’s Gospel passage, Jesus testifies to the identity of John the Baptist.  He praises John the Baptist as someone more than a prophet and greater among those born of a woman.  But still, the least in the Kingdom of God is greater than John the Baptist himself.  John the Baptist preached on repentance and conversion while Jesus went a step ahead in formulating a concrete action plan for the establishment of the Kingdom of God based under the Law of love. Such persons who foster and are found in the Kingdom of God are still greater than John the Baptist himself. 

The sinners and tax collectors accepted the teachings of John the Baptist and Jesus; and aligned their lives accordingly.  By rejecting the Baptism of John the Baptist, the Pharisees and the lawyers rejected God’s purpose for them. Through our Baptism we have accepted to abide and live by the life and teachings of Christ and this is the purpose of God for each of us as Christians.  But if we fail to live by the same then we are mere hypocrites no lesser than the Pharisees and lawyers of Jesus’ time.  The purpose of God for each of us is that we strive for freedom, fraternity and justice thereby realising the dream of Jesus, “The Kingdom of God”.  If we do part in realising this dream through our exemplary living, then can we be praised by God to be someone greater than John the Baptist. Let our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “May your Kingdom come O Lord”.

Bible Reflections I 15.12.2021 - Wednesday I Indraya Manna I

Advent: Week 3

Readings 

           I - Is. 45: 6-8, 18, 21-25

          II - Lk. 7: 19-23

CREDIBLE CHRISTIAN LIVING 

                  

In today’s Gospel passage, John the Baptist sends his disciples to ask Jesus whether he was the one who is to come or do they still have to wait for someone else.  To this question, Jesus did not answer directly but he only told them to go and tell John the Baptist what they had seen and heard: “the blind receive their sight, the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead raised, the poor have good news brought to them” - a perfect fulfillment of the prophesy of Isaiah in him (Is. 35: 5, 6).  From this identity of Jesus, John the Baptist can understand that Jesus was the Messiah for whom the people of Israel for generations waited in hope.

In the light of this Gospel passage, take a moment to reflect about your own lives.  Can anyone observing our own words and deeds testify that we are Christians modelled after the life and teachings of Christ? If someone looks at us and says, “he/she forgives, understands, cares, empathises, helps, understands, takes risks for the good cause, stands up for justice, truth and righteousness and above all loves others unconditionally”, then we are bearing witness to Christ as Christians.  If not, take this grace filled season of advent as an opportunity to amend and align our lives up to Credible Christian living and behold the Lord as He comes to meet us.  May our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “Lord Jesus, help me to be a witnessing Christian”.

Bible Reflections I 14.12.2021 - Tuesday I Indraya Manna I

Advent: Week 3

Readings 

           I - Zep. 3: 1-2, 9-13 

          II - Mt. 21: 28-32

APPEARANCE IS DECEPTIVE

                  

Today’s Gospel passage an invitation to integrity.  The first son refused to go and work in the vineyard but later changed his mind and went to work.  The second son seemed to have obeyed but failed to go to the vineyard.  The chief priests and elders claimed themselves to be God’s own people and projected to be concerned about God’s work but in their pride and arrogance, slighted the invitation of John the Baptist and Jesus alike.  Instead the rejected people: the tax collectors, prostitutes, Samaritans and the sinners were already aligning their ways according to the preaching of John the Baptist and Jesus.

We are in the grace filled season of advent supposed to be preparing ourselves to behold the Lord as He comes.  Do we prepare ourselves for a conversion of heart or just be content with the rituals that we perform?  Reflect and redefine your living unto the ways of God - this is Christian living.  Today the Church celebrates the feast of St. John of the Cross, a mystic and the doctor of the Church.  With great effort, courage and dynamism, revived and reformed the Carmelite way of life unto the ways of religious living.  May this saint help us to become credible witnesses of Christ in our integrated living.  May our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: Lord Jesus, help us to adhere to your teachings.

Bible Reflections I 13.12.2021 - Monday I Indraya Manna I

Advent: Week 3

Readings 

           I - Num. 24: 2-7, 15-17 

          II - Mt. 21: 23-27

BE OPEN TO THE TRUTH

                  

The primary task of every prophet was to turn the hearts of people to God.  For this purpose they feared none because their authority came from God.  The elders and the scribes deliberately denied to accept that Jesus was the Messiah and that John the Baptist was his forerunner, John the Baptist, the Elijah as prophesied. 

 Those who are sleeping can be woken up but the ones that pretend to be so can never be woken up.  They knew pretty well about John the Baptist and Jesus still they pretended that knew not. Be open to the truth and accept with serenity of heart, then can we be able to see the light of God bright.  May our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “Lord Jesus, help us to be open to the truth”.

Bible Reflections I 12.12.2021 - Sunday I Indraya Manna I

Advent: Week 3

Readings 

           I - Zeph. 3: 14-18 

          II - Phil. 4: 4-7

         III - Lk. 3: 10-18

“WHAT THEN SHOULD I DO?”

                  

John the Baptist was the forerunner of Christ who prepared the way for him through his baptism of repentance and conversion. His life and teaching provoked the people to amend their ways in order to worthily welcome the Lord, the Messiah who was to come. Acceptance and amendment are the two key points of the Gospel passage of the day. Being baptised tantamount to acceptance of the teaching of the baptiser. The crowds, the tax collectors and the soldiers accepted the teaching of John the Baptist and therefore they came forward to be baptised. They wanted to amend their lives unto the teachings of John the Baptist therefore each of them asked just one question alone to him: “What should we do?” and this indicates their utmost readiness to amend their lives.

We have accepted the life and teachings of Jesus Christ in our baptism. Jesus has given us just one commandment: Commandment of love - to love God and to love one another. If we conduct our life on the basis of the Law of love, we are ready for anytime to welcome the Lord as he comes in his glory. If we are too concerned about ourselves in selfishness, pride, arrogance and avarice, this is the time to turn back our hearts to the lord in love. During this season of Advent, let us just ask one question to ourselves: “What should I do to worthily welcome the Lord who is to come?” We do will find an answer to this question if we seek with sincerity of heart and with an ardent desire to amend our lives unto the ways of God. May our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “Lord Jesus, fill my heart with your love”.

Bible Reflections I 11.12.2021 - Saturday I Indraya Manna I

Advent: Week 2

Readings 

           I - Sir. 48: 1-4, 9-11 

          II - Mt. 17: 10-13

HE COMES, COMES AND EVER COMES

                  

In the first reading, Prophet Elijah is described as a prophet like fire and his word burned like a torch.  It was the prophecy that Elijah would be coming before the days of the Messiah: “Lo, I will send you the prophet Elijah before the great and terrible day of the Lord comes” (Mal. 4: 5).  And John the Baptist was indeed vehemently preaching and preparing the way of the Lord.  But as Jesus says in the Gospel passage of the day, they failed to recognise him and did to him whatever they pleased. Messiah was already with them and they fail to recognise him as well and therefore he had to suffer at human hands.  The fail to recognise was because of their wilful neglect and adamant denial. 

The great poet Rabindranath Tagore says: “He comes, comes, ever comes.  Every moment and every age, every day and every night he comes, comes, ever comes”.  We too like the people of Israel, the people of God, delving in our own ideas, thought pattern, mindset, preoccupation and prejudice fail to recognise Jesus, the Messiah who comes to us every day and every moment through persons and events.  During this season of Advent, ask the Lord to grace us to recognise him as he comes to meet us so that we may not miss him when he comes all in his glory to take us to himself into his Kingdom.  May our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “Lord Jesus, help me recognise you in everything and in everyone”.

Bible Reflections I 10.12.2021 - Friday I Indraya Manna I

Advent: Week 2

Readings 

           I - Is. 48: 17-19 

          II - Mt. 11: 16-19

ACCEPT AND ABIDE BY THE WORD OF GOD

                  

Acceptance and rejection are the two possible reactions to any teaching or preaching.  John the Baptist was austere that he neither ate nor drank but was concerned only about the preparing of the way of the Lord, and people called him ‘possessed’.  Jesus came, eating and drinking, casual but was concerned only about the Kingdom of God, and people called him ‘drunkard, glutton and a friend of tax collectors and sinners’.  The teachings of both, John the Baptist and Jesus was not comfortable and often confronted, contradicted and challenged their life style.  Hence they rejected both of them, choosing their comfortable cozy life. On the contrary, the sinners, the tax collectors and the gentiles accepted them and were already occupying a place in the Kingdom of God. 

We too often try our best to ignore the voice of God that comes in prayer, persons, Word of God and our own conscience because it challenges and causes inconvenience.  In the first reading, Prophet Isaiah enlightens about the blessings brought down on those who adhere to the Word of God: prosperity, happiness, integrity and all other blessings as well.  Wanna to be blessed by the Lord?  Accept and abide by his teachings; and that is life.  May our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “Lord Jesus, help me to live by your words”

Bible Reflections I 09.12.2021 - Thursday I Indraya Manna I

Advent: Week 2

Readings 

           I - Is. 41: 13-20 

          II - Mt. 11: 11-15

WANNA BECOME GREATER THAN JOHN THE BAPTIST?

                  

The time period can be split into two before John the Baptist and after John the Baptist.  In the first half that is  till John the Baptist,  many Great men and Prophets wished to see one of the days of the Messiah and could not but John the Baptist had seen the Messiah and had testified to him therefore, no man born is greater than John the Baptist. The second time period is between Jesus and our entry into that Kingdom of God.  If we accept in the one who had come in God’s name, the Son of God and align our lives to befitting His kingdom, then we are still greater than John the Baptist. The role of John the Baptist is similar to that of Prophet Elijah, to turn men back to God and therefore John the Baptist was Elijah in deed (Mt. 3: 1-7), which means, forerunner of Jesus Christ.  

We are in the grace filled season of Advent. A time to prepare ourselves for the coming of the Savior Jesus Christ.  The time given by the Church to prepare ourselves to behold the king who is to come.  If we are to be found innocent and blameless before him at the time of his coming, we would be entering into that glorious Kingdom of God.  The season of advent is an opportunity to align our ways unto the ways of God. Desire to become a part of that Kingdom which Jesus desired and dreamt of for each one of us.  Wish to be greater than John the Baptist? Prepare then to behold the Lord as he comes in glory to take us into that kingdom. May our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: "Come Lord Jesus come".

Bible Reflections I 08.12.2021 - Wednesday I Indraya Manna I

Advent: Week 2

Readings 

           I - Gen. 3: 9-15, 20 

          II - Eph. 1: 3-6, 11-12

         III - Lk. 1: 26-38

THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY (Solemnity)

                  

God chose Mary for the great purpose of the fulfillment of the His redemptive plan for the earth:

To save the world from sin and death due to the deliberate disobedience of Adam and Eve: “I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and hers; he will strike your head and you will strike his heel”.

To make us holy and blameless as worthy children of God. 

And this is why Mary was predestined to be holy and immaculate to become the mother of the Son of God.

The single takeaway that can be drawn from the solemnity of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary and the three readings of the day is: Obedience - Submission and surrender to the will of God.  Only obedience can help us stand holy and blameless as worthy children of God and this is the purpose and plan that God has for each of us.  Adam and Eve disobeyed God and yielded to the evil one incurring sin and death. The New Eve Mary through her obedience and submission to the will of God: “Behold the hand maid of the Lord…”brought forth the New Adam and along with him, the redemption and the new world order in him.  

We are the children of our Blessed Mother.  She is our model and guide.  May this her feast inspire us to imitate this dazzling trait of our Blessed Mother: the Obedience, to behold the Lord with a blameless heart, surrendering ourselves unto His will for each of us.  Do not be carried away by the funky lifestyle of the false world around, like Eve of the Garden of Eden but conquer courageously like our Mother Mary, the New Eve in obedience and submission to the will of God.  May our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “Mother Mary ever virgin, help me to save my soul”.

Bible Reflections I 07.12.2021 - Tuesday I Indraya Manna I

Advent: Week 2

Readings 

           I - Is. 40: 1-11 

          II - Mt. 18: 12-14

JESUS IS OUR GOOD SHEPHERD

                  

“It is not the will of your Father in heaven that one of these little ones should be lost” is the concern and the mindfulness of the Shepherd, the Good Shepherd towards the one lost on wandering.  Leaving ninety nine on the on the mountain and going in search of the lost one does not mean that the ninety nine does not matter to him.  Every sheep in the ninety nine matters to the shepherd individually and personally; they are secure in his care and therefore he goes in search of the one that is lost: “I guarded them, and not one of them was lost…” (Jh. 17: 12).  Every one of the sheep is precious to him and he is willing to give up his life to save even the one that is lost in wandering in order to bring it back safe to the sheepfold where they are free and secure.

As sheep belonging to the Sheepfold of Christ we have a triple responsibility: One, to remain in the sheepfold; two, if we are wandering away from Christ, adhere to his voice and get back to the sheepfold; and three, with Christ gather the sheep into the sheepfold through our words, deed, gestures and above all through our exemplary living.  Today the Church celebrates the feast of St. Ambrose who was also responsible for the conversion of St. Augustine, the great theologian, defender of faith and above all source of hope and inspiration, once a wandering sheep was brought back into the sheepfold. Let us in the silence of our heart keep repeating: “Jesus my Good Shepherd I thank you for your love”.

Bible Reflections I 06.12.2021 - Monday I Indraya Manna I

Advent: Week 2 . 

Readings 

           I - Is. 35: 1-10 

          II - Lk. 5: 17-26

JESUS LIBERATES

              

The Gospel passage of the day is about the healing of the paralytic. To the rebellious and prejudiced Pharisees and the teachers of the Law, who criticised Jesus for saying that his sins were forgiven, Jesus asked, “Which is easier, to say, ‘your sins are forgiven or stand up and walk”. Such commands are possible only for God. The fruits of such command in sickness and sorrow are forgiveness, healing, liberation and abounding peace on account of the same. The sins of the paralytic were forgiven, he was healed - stood up and walked and thereafter went glorifying God.  

In today’s Gospel we read, “…the power of the Lord was with him to heal”. Consider this season of advent, as an opportunity to approach the Lord with all infirmities and weakness but with the faith that the Lord can liberate from all bondage: sufferings, sickness, crisis, addictions, inabilities and from all that discourage and weigh us down. He is our compassionate and merciful healer. He would definitely heal us, set us free and fill us with peace. Let us also pray for our suffering brethren whom who know needs the healing power of Jesus. Like those four men, intercede for them to the Lord for his mercy and healing towards them. May our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “Lord Jesus, heal me and set me free from …….. (mention from what you want to be freed of).

Bible Reflections I 05.12.2021- Sunday I Indraya Manna I

Advent: Week 2. Sunday - 05.12.2021

Readings 

           I - Bar. 5: 1-9 

          II - Phil. 1: 4-6, 6-11

         III - Lk. 3: 1-6

PREPARE THE WAY OF THE LORD

                  

We behold eminent persons with proper preparation and exciting exclusive gifts. We will have both internal and external preparation proving ourselves to be worthy of receiving such dignitaries. Today’s Gospel passage is an invitation to prepare ourselves for the coming of the Lord, the King of Kings, as prophesied by Prophet Isiah: the Mighty God, Everlasting Father and the Prince of Peace (Is. 9: 6). But, How to prepare; and why to prepare?

How to Prepare?

In the Gospel passage of the day, John the Baptist exhorts us to repent and amend our ways unto the ways of the Lord. A change of heart, conversion and a ‘U’ turn from our reckless living to a purposeful living in and for God.

Why to prepare?

So that, as the second reading says, we may be found pure, blameless and remain righteous to stand before the Lord as he comes in His glory. So that, as the first reading says, we might be given the name, “Righteous Peace, Godly Glory” (Bar. 5: 4) and be led into the Kingdom of God with joy, in the light of His glory, carried in glory as on a royal throne.

Not even the finest dust of the earth could follow us into that Royal Eternal Kingdom but our woks of charity and kindness alone. As St. Paul says in the second reading, let everyone of our word and deed flow from charity so that we may be found ready and worthy at time of His coming. Yield unto the hands of God, unreservedly, so that, the One who began the good work will bring it to completion by the day of Jesus Christ. May our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “Come Lord Jesus” as we step into the second week of the grace filled Season of Advent.

Bible Reflections I 04.12.2021 - Saturday I Indraya Manna I

Advent: Week 1: 

04.12.2021 - Saturday

Readings 

           I - Is. 30: 19-21, 23-26 

          II - Mt. 9: 35-10: 1, 5-8

BUILDERS OF GOD’S KINGDOM

                  

In the Gospel passage of the day we read Jesus preaching, teaching and proclaiming the Good News of the Kingdom; and moved with compassion and graciousness, healing and curing every disease and sickness, thus fulfilling the prophesies foretold by the Prophets.  The extension of this mission was entrusted to the twelve disciples summoning them with authority to preach, proclaim, heal and cure as the sign of the Kingdom of God amidst them as was done by Jesus himself.  Jesus wished that this ministry be carried on and on until the Kingdom of God is established.

Each of us with our Christian vocation are called to be another Christ in this world projecting him in our mercy, compassion, goodness, kindness, forgiveness, patience, endurance and gentleness.  For this purpose, “Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.  If anyone speaks, they should do as one who speaks the very words of God.  If anyone serves, they should do with the strength God provides” (1 Pt. 4: 10-11).  “The gifts he gave were that some would be apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers…till we all come in the unity of faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God…” (Eph. 4: 11, 13).  Until this unity is established keep striving to the best as the builders of God’s Kingdom for what Christ Jesus has captured us with the graces bestowed upon us.  Let our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “Lord Jesus, make me an effective builder of your Kingdom”.

Bible Reflections I 03.12.2021 - Friday I Indraya Manna I

Advent: Week 1

Readings 

           I - Is. 29: 17-24 

          II - Mt. 9: 27-32

St. Francis Xavier (Priest), Solemnity

               

CALLED TO BE HERALDS OF HOPE 

                  

The blessed hope prophesied in the first reading by Prophet Isaiah is fulfilled in the coming of the Promised One, Jesus as we read in the Gospel passage, the healing of the two blind men.  The hope of the two blind men that they would see and the faith in Jesus that he can heal obtained a miracle for them.  They went with hope; were healed in faith and thereafter they became the messengers of that Good News throughout that district.  

We are in the first week of the advent reflecting on theme: Hope.  The hope in the Promised One for whom we await indeed will come as a fulfillment of our hope to wipe away every tear from all faces and the disgrace of His people, making all things anew (Is. 25:8, Rev. 21:4). We Christians, modelled after the mind and heart of our Master Jesus Christ, should infuse and strengthen the hope of the depressed, oppressed and the helpless around us thereby giving them the glimpse of the One who is to come in glory and establish his Kingdom forever. 

Today the Church celebrates the feast of St. Francis Xavier, a legendary missionary from Spain.  He was an ardent follower of Christ and a daring missionary with great zeal and commitment. Francis Xavier, in his younger days had various ambitions and plans for his future.  Disturbed by the Word of God, “For what will it profit them if they gain the whole world but forfeit their life?” (Mt. 16:26), Francis Xavier, gave away all his dreams and desires; and determined to follow Christ leaving his country and people behind.  He dared to be a missionary to set the light of Christ thereby infusing hope and faith in the Lord Jesus.  He preached along the coastal areas of Goa, various parts of South India, Malaya and Japan and turned many hearts towards Christ. May the saint intercede for us that we may become effective heralds of hope, wherever we are.  Let our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “St. Francis Xavier, Pray for us”.

Bible Reflections I 02.12.2021 - Thursday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Advent 1

Readings 

           I - Is. 26: 1-6 

          II - Mt. 7: 21, 24-27

               

LISTEN AND LIVE BY THE WORD OF GOD

                  

We are hearing and witnessing the disasters due to the torrential rains followed by floods these days. So many magnificent, trending and lofty buildings being carried and washed away in the waters because of the poor and weak foundations, unable to withstand the current of the fast flowing floods. Jesus uses this very practical metaphor to explain about the hearers and the doers of the Word of God. The active listeners of the Word of God who live by the same stand steadfast even if baffled and battered up by trials, temptations and misfortunes while mere listeners of the Word are washed away by the trifles of the world giving up their faith and trust in the Lord. 

Listening to the Word of God in faith and accomplishing the same with an utmost trust position their life in the Lord, an everlasting rock. These people of God stand steadfast secured even amidst all adversary circumstances with the Lord besides them, true to his words: “When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze” (Is. 43:2). They people would hold fast to their faith, abounding in hope and would be ablaze with charity inheriting eternal life when the Son of Man comes in glory to visit them. May we too be counted to be one among them. Let our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “Lord Jesus, strengthen my faith”

Bible Reflections I 01.12.2021- Wednesday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Advent 1

Readings 

           I - Is. 25: 6-10 

          II - Mt. 15: 29-37

                

MITE IS MIGHT IN THE HANDS OF GOD

                  

The Gospel reading of the day is the perfect fulfillment of the Prophesy of Prophet Isaiah in the first reading.  The Lord their God, whom they waited, for so long years was with them, wiping away their tears and disgrace on the mountain as prophesied.  Let us take up the second part of the Gospel reading for our reflection.  The compassionate heart of Jesus and the contribution from the crowd made the miracle of the multiplication of the loaves and fish possible.  Jesus blessed the mite, the seven loaves and the fish, and fed the multitude that was hungry. 

Our God whom we await for during this season of Advent is ‘Immanuel’ - God with us.  To this God of ours, let us generously offer the mite that we have, our talent, goodwill, attitude and accomplishments.  He would definitely work a miracle out of it for a better world of love, peace, joy and happiness, wiping away every tear from the face of the people and the disgrace of those humiliated and oppressed.  May our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “Lord Jesus, help me to yield myself unto Thee”

Bible Reflections I 30.11.2021 - Tuesday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Advent 1

Readings 

           I - Rom. 10: 9 -18 

          II - Mt. 4: 18-22

St. Andrew (Apostle) - Feast 

               

FOLLOW THE LORD IN FAITH AND COURAGE

                  

The Lord calls whomever he wants (Mk. 3:13). Be it Peter, the fisherman or Matthew, the tax collector or Simon, the zealot or Saul, the learned and the persecutor. Jesus calls them to be with him and to be sent on a mission (Mk. 3:14). The mission precisely is to preach the Good News and to build up the Kingdom of God. To be the messengers of love, peace and joy for the purpose of establishing a subservient social order, an egalitarian society where freedom, fraternity and justice reign. The adherence and commitment to the call of God requires faith and courage. Faith in the one who calls will accompany all through the life journey and the courage to endure and face all suffering, persecution, defamation, false accusation and finally death on this accord.   

Today the Church celebrates the feast of St. Andrew, the brother of Simon Peter (Jn. 1:40) and the apostle of Jesus. His commitment to the call of Jesus was instantaneous that evince his faith in the great Rabbi and the Messiah, Jesus. He travelled around Asia Minor and Black Sea preaching the Good news with great courage and conviction. When he was sentenced to death by crucifixion, he felt that he was unworthy to be crucified like his master Jesus Christ and hence asked to be crucified on a diagonal cross. This is why the Scottish flag have a diagonal cross as St. Andrew is the patron saint of Scotland.  

Christ has called each one of us to be his followers through our baptism to partake in the priestly, kingly and prophetic mission of the Church. We need not accomplish great things but make the principles of Christ our way of living in the day-to-day context making our ordinary living an extraordinary one as set out by Jesus our Master and Model. May St. Andrew, the apostle, strengthen our faith and help us to courageously commit ourselves to the mission of being the messengers of the Good News through our exemplary living. May our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “St. Andrew, the apostle of Christ, Pray for us”.

Bible Reflections I 29.11.2021 - Monday I Indraya Manna I

Advent - Week 1

Readings:  I - Is. 2: 1-5

     II - Mt. 8: 5-11, 13

   

THE POWER OF FAITH

“If you have faith and do not doubt…you can say to this mountain, ‘Go, throw yourself into the sea’ and it will be done” (Mt. 21:21).  Such is the power of faith.  But what is faith?  “Faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see” (Heb. 11:1). The centurion had tremendous faith in the authority of Jesus over his words.  He highlighted the authority of Jesus subduing his own authority over those hundred under him.  He was a non-Jew and a Samaritan still had a firm faith in the authority of Jesus over his words and it was done to him - his servant was healed from the terrible disease. 

“All things are possible to him who believes” (Mk. 2:23).  It is not enough that we fumble with words and babble in our prayers.  Prayer is basically a matter of faith that the centurion had.  In the light of the faith of the Centurion, let us examine our own faith and pray for the gift of faith, so that we might be the credible witnesses of Christ our Lord.  May our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “Lord Jesus, fill me with the gift of faith”.

Bible Reflections I 28.11.2021 - Sunday I Indraya Manna I

Advent  Week 1

Readings 

           I - Jer. 33: 14-16 

          II - 1 Thess. 3: 12-4: 2

         III - Lk. 21: 25-28, 34-36

                

WATCHING IN PRAYER; WAITING IN HOPE

                  

We are stepping into a new liturgical season of Advent.  Advent comes from the Latin word ‘Adventus’ meaning ‘coming’.  Advent is the time of preparation for the coming of the Messiah - the Christmas.  It is also a reminder that we be ready to behold the Son of Man as he comes with power and great gory during his second coming.  Advent alerts people of God to keep themselves prepared watching and waiting.  Watching in prayer so that, as the second reading says, we may appear blameless before God at the coming of Christ our Lord.  Waiting in hope that as the first reading says, the Lord of righteousness will cause justice and righteousness flourish in our land thereby establishing His Kingdom where freedom, fraternity and justice reign.  

During this season of Advent, watch in prayer and wait in hope to behold the “Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace” (Is. 9: 6). As we during this grace filled season of Advent prepare ourselves recalling the first Christmas at Bethlehem, focus too on the preparation for his second coming when he will come to visit and take us by hand to that everlasting Kingdom of love, peace, joy, hope and happiness that reign forever. May our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “Come Lord Jesus Come”.

Bible Reflections I 27.11.2021 - Saturday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 34

Readings 

           I - Dan. 7: 15-27 

          II - Lk. 21: 34-36

BE ON GUARD; BE ALERT

                  

‘Be on guard’ and ‘Be alert’ are the watchwords of the day’s Gospel passage splitting the same into two parts. ‘Be on guard’ - that neither to be dissipated with the worries of this life nor to be allured by the falsity of the world.   Because the arrival of the Lord might happen unexpectedly at any time when we expect it at the least.  Therefore, Jesus says, ‘Be alert’ -   by praying at all times for the strength to escape from all persecutions, false acquisitions and sufferings that Jesus predicted for his followers in the Gospel passages all through this week, so as to stand with a blameless heart before the Son of Man as he comes in Glory.

The reward for those who adhere to the words of Jesus is clearly specified in the first reading from the Book of Daniel: “The kingship and dominion and the greatness of the kingdoms under the whole heaven shall be given to the people of the holy ones of the Most High; their kingdom shall be an everlasting kingdom, and all dominions shall serve and obey them” (Dan. 17: 27).  Therefore make the living here on the earth a befitting one to inherit a place in the Kingdom of God.  Live by the watchwords of Jesus and endure everything with the hope in the eternal joy and bliss that await us. Let us in the silence of our heart keep repeating: “Lord Jesus, help me to live by your word that is truth and life”

Bible Reflections I 25.11.2021 - Thursday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 34

Readings 

           I - Dan. 6: 11-27 

          II - Lk. 21: 20-28

WAIT FOR THE LORD

                  

The first reading passage of the day compliments and substantiates the Gospel passage of the day.  In the Gospel passage, Jesus cautions about the crisis of the time to all the followers of Christ, before his second coming; encourages them to stand steadfast in faith and assures them of the hope in the coming of the Son of man and the Kingdom of God.  The God who saved Daniel from the fiery, roaring and hungry lion is so powerful to recue us from the hands of our oppressors.  To the king who asked Daniel, “O Daniel, servant of the living God, has your God whom you faithfully serve been able to deliver you from the lions?” Daniel responded saying, “My God sent his angel and shut the lions’ mouths so that they would not hurt me, because I was found blameless before him”.  This is important and to be taken note of that Daniel was found blameless before God.  

When trying situations entrap us from all sides, all we have to do is to put our trust in the Lord and wait for him patiently without distractions.  To endure for the sake of the living God, without denying him and be found blameless before him.  Then will our God, as in the case of Daniel would certainly act on our behalf to the astonishment of all our foes and trying situations.  May we put all our hope in him, stand steadfast in our faith and wait for the Lord.  He will definitely act on our behalf bringing salvation and relief. Let our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “Lord Jesus, I trust in you”.

Bible Reflections I 24.11.2021 - Wednesday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 34

Readings 

           I - Dan. 5: 1-6, 13-14, 16-17, 23-28 

          II - Lk. 21: 12-19

                

THE LORD CARES

                  

The first reading is an attestation to the Gospel reading of the day.  On account of Jesus, we might have to endure opposition, accusations and persecutions from those in power and authority.  We might be betrayed by our own kith and kin, hated and put to death.  Jesus exhorts to endure and encourages with the blessed assurance of his assistance and protection.  He promises of wisdom to speak and strength to withstand before the accusing authorities. In the first reading, when Daniel, an exile of Judah was brought before king Belshazzar for interpreting his dream, the king said, “I have heard of you that a spirit of the gods is in you, and that enlightenment, understanding and excellent wisdom are found in you”.  True to the words of the king, Daniel in deed fearlessly interpreted the dream to the king.  An amazing attestation to the Gospel reading of the day! Daniel in deed faced the tyrant with God.  

Do not get panicked at embarrassing and endangering situation, the Lord our God like a mighty warrior would fight on our behalf, defending and protecting (Jer. 20:21).  Endure everything with the Lord until the day of meeting his face to face, for he says, “I will not leave you as orphans” (Jh. 14:18)” and “Surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age” (Mt. 28: 20).  Let us endure every trial patiently with the joy of meriting the Kingdom of God when he comes in His glory.  May our mind and heart resonate with the prayer, “Lord Jesus, help me to be your witness”.

Bible Reflections I 23.11.2021 - Tuesday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 34

Readings 

           I - Dan. 2: 31-45 

          II - Lk. 21: 5-11

                

HIS KINGDOM REIGNS FOREVER

                  

The supremacy of God overpowers and subdues all earthly power and position is the streamline of the two readings today.  All atrocious activities and oppressing powers will be overthrown with the coming of the Kingdom of God. The two readings of the day are interconnected and complementary.  The Gospel passage is the prediction of suffering under the super powers of the world and the first reading is the consolation and hope that the Kingdom of God would prevail over all super powers of this world.

   

In the Gospel passage of the day, Jesus predicts the destruction of the Jerusalem temple, the pride of the people of God, intertwined with the emotions of every Jew.  Jesus also predicts the sufferings that the people of God had to endure under the clutches of the great and greedy rulers and the powers of the world.  The second reading is a consolation and comfort that would boost the endurance and hope of the people of God.  In the vision of Nebuchadnezzar, the great statue of extreme brightness, so terrible to see was smashed to fine chaff by the stone untouched by any hand - the Kingdom of God that will neither be destroyed nor will it pass into the hands of another human race. God will one day reign over all where will also reign freedom, fraternity and justice making pace for all people of God for a happy living.

If we had to face any suffering on account of Jesus, endure so willingly with the hope that God will one day act on our behalf.  The Lord who listened to the cry of Israel under the slavery of the Egyptian tyrants, “I have indeed seen the misery of my people in Egypt.  I have heard them crying out because of their slave drivers, and I am concerned about their suffering” (Ex. 37:7),I would indeed listen to us and act on our behalf. Therefore accept all suffering with all hope and trust in the Lord who is concerned so much about us.  May our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “Lord Jesus, I trust in you”.

Bible Reflections I 22.11.2021 - Monday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 34

Readings 

           I - Dan. 1: 1-6, 8-20 

          II - Lk. 21: 1-4

St. Cecilia, Virgin, Martyr (Memorial)

                   

THE 3G GIVERS

                  

There are three types of givers: the greedy givers, the grumpy givers and the generous givers.  

The greedy givers are those who give their offering, from their abundance, only with the intention of attracting the attention of the people around, so as to gain their glory, honour, appreciation and praises for them.  The Pharisees in today’s Gospel passage contributed from their abundance solely to gain glory in the sight of those people around them.  

The grumpy givers are those who made their offering as a fulfillment of their obligation, may be the tithe (1/10th of their earning) or any other obligatory offering. They offered no more or no less but exactly what was prescribed. 

The generous givers are those who offered willingly all that out of their love for God.  The poor widow of the Gospel passage, offered all that she had for her existence out of her love for her God and the temple.  We wonder whether she knew that she was appreciated by Jesus before all men in the temple.  This Gospel passage is an invitation to imbibe this attitude of the poor widow in giving and sharing.

Today the Church celebrates the feast of St. Cecilia, the patroness of music and musicians who offered herself to the Lord with all her heart, body and soul.  May the saint of the day, help us to become generous givers counting not the cost but all for the love of God.  May our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “Lord Jesus, help me to be a generous giver like the poor widow”.

Bible Reflections I 21.11.2021 - Sunday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 34

Readings 

           I - Dan. 7: 13-19 

          II - Rev. 1: 5-8

         III - Jh. 18: 33-37

                   

SOLEMNITY OF CHRIST THE KING

                  

To Jesus was given the dominion, glory and kingship by the Father in Heaven, as the first reading says: an everlasting dominion that shall not pass away and His kingship that shall not be destroyed. Jesus, the king of kings, saving us through his blood, has made us to be a kingdom and priests serving the Father. He freed us by giving himself as a sacrifice on the cross in complete obedience and submission to the will of the Father. Jesus, the king of kings, the almighty, who is, who was and who is to come will come again in glory to judge the living and the dead as we profess in our creed.  

The Church solemnises the kingship of Jesus today. With the celebration of the solemnity of the Feast of Christ the King, the ordinary time of the liturgical year ends and we are about to enter into the season of advent. This celebration is an invitation to align ourselves unto the ways of God in order to acknowledge and accept the kingship of Jesus. During the season of advent that we are about to begin let us amend our lives so as to make ourselves befitting into that kingdom where freedom, fraternity and justice reign, unlike the kingdom of Pilate, who questioned Jesus about his kingship. Let us with one mind and heart proclaim: "Jesus you are our King and our Lord" as often as possible.

Bible Reflections I 20.11.2021 - Saturday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 33

Readings 

           I - 1 Macc. 6: 1-13 

          II - Lk. 20: 27-40

                  

CHOOSE GOD; CHOOSE LIFE

                  

All love on this earth is but the spark of that divine love. All relationships culminate in this ultimate relationship in God. When the earthly existence is ended, everyone will be drawn to the Lord depending on the good deeds one has accomplished. The individual and God will be the only relationship that would exist, singing the praises of Him whom we glorified here on the earth with our lives, accomplishing our responsibilities. 

We are left with only two options to live our life here on this earth. To choose God and to live forever or otherwise. Not to waste our life in vain in unnecessary attachment here on this earth that does not follow us here after. But to utilise everything as a means to reach heaven, the destiny final. Let our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “Lord lead us to the truth”.

Bible Reflections I 19.11.2021 - Friday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 33

Readings 

           I - 1 Macc. 4: 36-37, 52-59 

          II - Lk. 19: 45-48

                

THE POWER OF LIFE AND THE POWER OF WORDS 

                  

Today’s Gospel passage is an invitation to reflect upon the two aspects of Jesus viz. the power of his life and the power of his words.  On entering the temple, Jesus drove out those selling things in the temple and none dared to prevent nor disapprove of him for his act because such was the power of his life, a life of righteousness par excellence. In the second part of the Gospel passage of the day, we read that the crowd that listened to Jesus was spell bound at his teachings.  Such was the power of his words. 

As Christians and followers of Christ, the Gospel passage is a beckoning to examine our lives in this light.  Do we dare to stand up for what is right or escape from risk-taking in the process of restoring righteousness and justice? If so, that is the power of our lives modelled after our Master, Jesus Christ.  Examine the words that we speak. If they are life giving, encouraging, uplifting, consoling, comforting, soothing, inspiring, motivating and enthusing for a better tomorrow, then our words do have power of effecting a change for the better.  Let our life and words effect in the blossoming up of the kingdom of God. May our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “Lord Jesus, make me like you”.

Bible Reflections I 18.11.2021 - Thursday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 33

Readings 

           I - 1 Macc. 2: 15-29 

          II - Lk. 19: 41-44

Dedication of the Basilicas of Saints Peter and Paul (Feast)

               

RECONGNISE THE LORD AS HE COMES TO VISIT US

                  

There is a church called ‘Dominus Flevit’ in Jerusalem where Jesus wept looking over Jerusalem.  The entire Jerusalem can be captured from this view point.  Jerusalem, the city of God failed to recognise God’s visitation in the Promised one for whom so long it waited.  Had the people of Jerusalem recognised Him, they would have been gathered in Jesus as the hen would its chicken (Mt. 23:37). They failed and that was the cause of its destruction.

Today the church celebrates the feast of the dedication of the basilicas of Saints Peter and Paul.  Peter recognised Jesus in the might catch (Lk. 5:1-11) and Paul in his Damascus experience (Acts.9: 1-8). They recognised him rightly, followed him passionately and offered themselves willingly as martyrs for their faith in the Risen Lord.  To mark the heroism of the two giants and the pillars of the Church, basilicas are dedicated for them in their name as the glory of the Lord.  

We are the temple of God (1Cor. 6:19).  Miss not the moments when Christ comes to visit us through the Scripture, persons and events.  Recognising and living for him is glory to Him. May St. Peter and St. Paul, like them, help us to glorify the Lord through our lives.  Let our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “Saints Peter and Paul pray for us”.

Bible Reflections I 17.11.2021 - Wednesday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 33

Readings 

           I - 2 Macc. 7: 1, 20-31 

          II - Lk. 19: 11-28

           

UNTIL HE COMES AGAIN IN GLORY….

                  

Jesus says the parable of the talents for two reasons: one, he was near Jerusalem, where he was about encounter his passion and death; and two that he would come again in glory with all authority, power and majesty making everyone accountable for their gifts and talents bestowed.  The Gospel passage of the day says that the people supposed that the Kingdom of God was to appear immediately.  Jesus clarifies them through this parable that it is not immediate and it is a process and everyone needs to be vigilant in working for the same to the best of their ability without any laxity until he comes again in glory.  The lethargic and the lazy would be judged accordingly like the man who received one talent, no matter the talent received is great or small.     

Each of us are bestowed with graces, blessings, gifts and talents meant to be utilised in establishing the Kingdom of God.  For every gift wasted in this regard should greatly be accounted for on his second coming or rather when we encounter the Lord after our earthly existence here on earth. If we have utilised them well we can hear from the Lord, “Well done, good and faithful servant…..come and share your master’s happiness” (Mt. 25: 23).  Let us discover, appreciate and utilise the gifts of God in establishing freedom, fraternity and justice here on earth instead of wasting our time in vain.  May our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: Lord, make me an instrument of your love peace and joy.

Bible Reflections I 16.11.2021 Tuesday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 33

Readings 

           I - 2 Macc. 6: 18-31 

          II - Lk. 19: 1-10

                   

TO GIVE UP TO GAIN

                  

Zacchaeus with great desire climbed a sycamore tree just to see Jesus, the trending rabbi of that time may be out of mere curiosity.  Jesus surprised him by looking up at him and said to him, “Zacchaeus, hurry and come down; for I must stay at your house today”. The look of Jesus pierced through his eyes deep in to his heart that he said, “Look, half of my possessions, Lord, I will give to the poor; and if I have defrauded anyone of anything, I will pay back four times as much”.  Greedy Zacchaeus valued the friendship  of Jesus so much that he was ready to give up all that he accumulated at the cost of the hatred of his people around and his loneness with the title as ‘the sinner’. 

A person is ready and willing to give up anything for the sake of love.  We may say we love God. And if we do love God, who loved us first and also love us more, are we ready to give up all that does not align with the will of God?  If we dare to give up all that is not of God, then we are Christians.  Let us give up our hatred, anger, jealousy, false finding attitude, gossip, pride, dishonesty, greed, enmity and avarice and shine brightly as sterling Christians after the heart of Jesus.  Then can we hear Jesus say, “Today salvation has come to this house”.  May our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “Lord Jesus, teach me to give up all for your love”.

Bible Reflections I 15.11.2021 - Monday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 33

Readings 

           I - I Macc. 1: 10-15, 41-43, 54-57, 62-64 

          II - Lk. 18: 35-43

                   

THE LORD IS NEAR TO ALL WHO CALL HIM

                  

The Gospel passage of the day is on the healing of the blind beggar by Jesus.  The three takeaways from this Gospel passage are: Call to the Lord, Persevere and Remain grateful.

Call to the Lord

Like the blind beggar losing his sight, seated on the roadside, the setbacks in life may deter us from pursuing our life journey.  It could be sickness, struggle, losses, financial problems, loneliness, abandonment and the like.  The blind beggar once understood who that was passing by, stopped not crying out, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me”.  The Scripture says, “The Lord is near to all who call on His” (Ps. 145: 18).  Let us too cry out to God for help in times of our setbacks. 

Perseverance

The crowds sternly ordered the beggar to be quiet.  The bible says, “but he shouted even more loudly”.  Despair, discouragement, hopelessness and frustration may prevent us from persevering in prayer with faith.  Like the blind beggar, cease not calling on the name of the Lord in perseverance and persistence, then can we hear Jesus asking us, “What do you want me to do for you?”

Remain grateful

Regaining his sight, the blind beggar followed Jesus, glorifying God.  Let us remain grateful to all the blessings of the Lord and glorify God with our witnessing life.

Jesus will hear us, Jesus will heals and let us remain grateful and glorify Him in our lives.

May our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me”

Bible Reflections I 14.11.2021 - Sunday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 33

Readings 

           I - Dan. 12: 1-3

          II - Heb. 10: 11-14, 18

         III - Mk.  13: 24-32

      

WORLD DAY OF THE POOR

                  

The second coming of the Lord is the streamline of all three reading today. All those who have qualified themselves to be befitting to the kingdom of God will enter into everlasting life and the others would be doomed to everlasting contempt.  All those who have aligned their lives according to the Law of the Lord based on love are sure to behold Lord on that day of His glorious coming.  The conditions of the Lord for conquering the eternal bliss of paradise is already set out in the Gospel according to St. Matthew where Jesus says: “…for I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was naked and you gave me clothing, I was sick and you took care of me, I was in prison and you visited me” (Mt. 25: 35-36).

On that day of the Lord, each one has to stand before the Lord individually accompanied only by the good we accomplished here on the earth.  Become like the shrewd manager (Lk. 16: 1-9) in the parable we heard some couple of days before.  Dare to share the earthly riches to gain life eternal that is true and ultimate as Jesus would say, “And I tell you, make friends for yourselves by means of dishonest wealth so that when it is gone, they may welcome you into the eternal homes” (Lk. 16: 9).  

Today the Church celebrates the World Day of the Poor. Jesus says, “Blessed are you who are poor, for yours is the Kingdom of God” (Lk. 6: 20) and those who are generous to the poor will be blessed by the Lord (Pro. 22: 9).  The poor are the predilects of God because they are less privileged and less fortunate. Whoever is generous to the poor lends to the Lord, and He will repay him (Pro. 19:17) with the bliss for eternity (Mt. 25: 35-36).  Strive to prove our Christian identity and credibility in our generosity towards the poor and the marginalised and be prepared to face the Lord at any time as and when he comes to meet.  May our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “Lord Jesus, fill my heart with your love”.

Bible Reflections I 13.11.2021 - Saturday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 32

Readings 

           I - Wis. 18: 14-16, 19: 6-9

          II - Lk. 18: 1-8

        

KEEP FAITH AGLOW

                  

The unjust judge mentioned in the parable of Jesus, “neither feared God nor had respect for people” (Lk. 18:2).  He therefore would have cared very least for any justice.  From such a person the widow obtains justice, not because she found favour or mercy in the eyes of the Judge.  But because of the persistent plea with the judge wrought for her justice from the unjust judge. 

Following the parable Jesus says, “And will not God grant justice to His chosen ones who cry to Him day and night? Will He delay long in helping them? I tell you, he will quickly grant justice to them” (Lk. 18:7).  But what is missing among the people is - ‘the faith’ that God would act on their behalf.  A firm faith that God would accomplish for them.  The quality of our prayer vests in the quality of our faith. Faith and perseverance are intertwined. Our untiring plea with God in faith and perseverance can obtain God's favour for us. Let us with all our mind and heart ask God to fill us with the gift of faith as we repeat this prayer as often as possible: “Lord Jesus, fill me with the gift of faith”

Bible Reflections I 12.11.2021 - Friday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 32

Readings 

           I - Wis. 13: 1- 9

          II - Lk. 17: 26-37

St. Josaphat, Bishop, Martyr (Memorial)

         

GET SET TO LIVE FOR THE LORD

                  

Live everyday as if it is the last day of your life is an oft heard maxim for an improved and quality living.  Quoting two disasters, Jesus cautions for our preparedness to meet the day of the Lord at any part of the time or day.  The second coming of Jesus to each of us individually would be when we finally bid ‘good bye’ to this world once and for all.  Our preparedness ensures our pursuance into that blissful eternity. 

It is inevitable to stand steadfast in God and in His commandments even when all others around us compromise with the worldly order, and yet thrive. Noah and Lot, the righteous of God lived surrounded by people who conducted their lives as though God never existed. The wrath of God consumed them but saving the families of Noah and Lot who were righteous before Him.  The Scripture says, “For the eyes of the Lord range throughout the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to Him” (2Chro. 16: 9). Do not give up hope and courage to live for the Lord. Even amidst disaster, mishap, tragedy or catastrophe His hand would already be there to save and secure His people who live by His commands. Let us in the silence of our hearts keep praying, “Lord Jesus, give me the courage to live by your command”.

Bible Reflections I 11.11.2021 - Thursday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 32

Readings 

           I - Wis. 7: 22 - 8: 1

          II - Lk. 17: 20-25

THE KINGDOM OF GOD IS AMIDST US

                  

The Kingdom of God would neither descend from the sky nor would it shoot up from the earth but it is amidst us is the crux of the Gospel passage today.  This can be compared to the metaphor of light dispelling darkness.  The presence of light vanquishes even the shades of darkness.  Jesus says that we are the light of the world (5: 14).  We are supposed to vanquish the darkness of division, despair, disbelief, gloom, fear, anxiety, jealousy, hatred, poverty, suffering and greed with our light of love, peace, joy, forgiveness, hope, unity, brotherhood, justice, generosity, kindness, compassion and gentleness.  

Jesus with His life has left us a pattern of living as children of God.  Living up to our identity as children of God is already a sign of blossoming up of the Kingdom of God.  Therefore the Kingdom of God is not here or there but amidst us,  It vests in our credible living up to our Christian vocation.  May our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “Lord Jesus, make me like you”.

Bible Reflections I 10.11.2021 - Wednesday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 32

Readings 

           I - Wis. 6: 1-11

          II - Lk. 17: 11-19

St. Leo the Great, Pope, Doctor (Memorial) 

          

GRATITUDE IS AN ATTITUDE

                  

The two takeaways of the Gospel passage of the day are: faith and gratefulness. The ten lepers had tremendous faith in the Lord and this is why the immediately proceeded to show themselves to the priests as commanded by Jesus while still they were lepers. Because the Scripture says, “…And as they went they were made clean” (Lk.11: 14). Only the Samaritan, on realising that he was cleansed from leprosy turned back to thank Jesus. Grateful people do not take anything for granted. The Jews who paraded themselves to be the people of God took the healing for granted while an outcast came back to thank Jesus. They were all filled with faith but failed to be grateful.

It is faith that keeps our life going. We are sure of the routine works of everyday and seldom do we think about those people who make the day a comfortable one for us. From the rising till retiring many people contribute to the smooth functioning of our life. Let us today take some time to just recollect those insignificant persons behind our best day and thank God for them and thank them with our simple gestures of thankfulness. May our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “Lord we thank you”.

Bible Reflections I 09.11.2021 - Tuesday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 32

Readings 

           I - Ezk. 47: 1-2, 8-9, 12

          II - Jn. 2: 13-22

Dedication of the Lateran Basilica (Feast) 

          

WE ARE THE TEMPLE OF GOD

                  

The extension of the ‘tent of meeting’ pitched by Moses (Ex. 7:33) was the temple the Israelites built for the Lord.  The ‘tent of dwelling’ (Jn. 1:14) is what we are, the temple of God where the Spirit of the Lord dwells (1 cor. 6:19).  The former is the dwelling made for God and the latter is God made dwelling for Himself.  In the ‘tent of meeting’ God consents to dwell and in the ‘tent of dwelling’ God desires to dwell.  The purpose being the same: prayer, worship, praises, thanksgiving and ultimately the spread of the glory of God.  The precedence of commerce, trade and business profaned the purpose of the temple that triggered the anger of Jesus resulting in the cleaning of the temple. 

We are created to sing the praises of God and spread the glory of His name through our Love, peace, unity, fraternity, justice and amicability towards one another, wherever we are.  If we had failed in this purpose we need to be cleansed so as to be restored to our purpose.  Today we celebrate the feast of the Dedication of the Lateran Church, called as the ‘Mother and Mistress of all Churches”.  May the celebration enable, enkindle and enthuse us to live up to the purpose as the temple of God.  May our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “Lord our God, May my life become an unending praise to you”.