Bible Reflections I 01.11.2021 - Monday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 31

Readings 

        I - Rev. 7: 2-4, 9-14

       II - IJn. 3: 1-3

       II - Mt. 5: 1-12

ALL SAINTS DAY (Solemnity)

                  

Today the Church rejoices in the victory of those who passed by the world, living here a worthy and heroic life befitting to their identity as the ‘Children of God’.  In asserting this identity, they would have endured a great ordeal that purified them, making them worthy to stand before the throne of the lamb that is all holy.  Standing for the Lord in this world courageously yet joyfully; bravely yet blaming none and daringly yet with diligence would take us to the throne of the Lord, the ultimate destination for all children of God.  

The ‘Blessed’ in the beatitudes of the Gospel passage are sure to join the band of the saints whom we celebrate today.  The ‘blessed’ according to the Word of God, behold the throne of God after their life here on this earth.  The poor, the mourners, the meek, those men and women who hunger for truth and justice, the merciful, the pure in heart, the peacemakers, those persecuted for justice and those falsely accused on account of Jesus reap their reward in full measure, true to the promise of Jesus.  

Life is a free gift of God but life eternal is the reward for those dare to stand for God in all that they do and say.  May the saints we celebrate today help us to courageously align our lives unto the ways of God.  Let us mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “All saints of the Lord, Pray for us”.

Bible Reflections I 30.10.2021 - Saturday I Indraya Manna i

Ordinary Time - Week 30

Readings 

          I - Rom. 11: 1-2, 11-12, 25-29

          II - Lk. 14: 1, 7-11

SHUN SHOW OFF

                  

It is quite natural and normal to expect that one is esteemed, honoured and respected.  But obsessive craving for consideration, pomp, glory, honour, recognition and respect culminates in causing show off syndrome.  The humanity today suffers under the clutches of show off syndrome.  Everyone wishes to glitter and glow in the sight of every other person.  They are ready and willing to do anything to achieve this height.  Fall from heights is a tragedy and on the other hand to be lifted to the heights from the dust is an honour as we read in the Book of Proverbs, “for it is better to be told, “come up here”, than to be put lower in the presence of the prince” (Pro. 25. 6-7).  In the Gospel passage today, Jesus, through a parable insists on the great value of humility, the mother of all virtues.  Self-knowledge and self-acceptance wraps one with humility freeing from false pride, vain glory and self honour.  May the kenosis (self-emptying) of Jesus, renouncing his own divinity and his great humility in stooping down to the level of a slave in washing the feet of his disciples, inspire and enkindle our aspiration to become more humble like our master and his Blessed Mother Mary, the humble handmaid of the Lord whom we fondly remember today.  Let our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “Lord Jesus, teach me to be humble like you”.

Bible Reflections I 29.10.2021 - Friday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 30

Readings 

           I - Rom. 9: 1-5

           II - Lk. 14: 1-6

LET HUMANESS SURPASS ALL THINGS

                  

In today’s Gospel passage Jesus takes the bull by the horns. Jesus uses the invitation of the leader of the Pharisee to dine with him, as an opportunity to confront the unnecessary rules that weighed down the common people.  By curing the man suffering from dropsy on the Sabbath, Jesus insists on the precedence of life and the supremacy of accomplishing good goes beyond time, rules and regulations. The healing is an exhortation to everyone to be more reasonable and humane.  

Laws, rules and regulations are for people and not people for the same as Jesus would say, “The Sabbath was made for man, not man for Sabbath” (Mk. 2:27).  The purpose of Sabbath was to dedicate the day for the Lord abstaining from major works like rest of the six days in order to spend the time during the Sabbath in prayer, praise and worship. The day of Sabbath therefore is supposed to be kept holy. But the Scribes and the Pharisees threw the baby with the bathwater by making stringent rules for the Sabbath day.  Humanness ought to streamline and surpasses all laws, rules and regulations. Let us not be bound by unscrupulous rules, regulations and rituals but allow and flaunt humanness in all that we seek and accomplish. May our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “Jesus Lord, make me like you”.

Bible Reflections I 28.10.2021 - Thursday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 30

Readings 

            I - Eph. 2: 19-22

           II - Lk. 6: 12-16

Saints Simon and Jude, Apostles (Feast)

YOU ARE GOD’S CHOICE

                  

Jesus went into the hills and prayed the whole night before selecting his team of the twelve from among many that followed him.  His choice of selection at the outset might seem to be absurd.  Such a great task and the passionate dream of Jesus, the Kingdom of God, be delegated to a group composed of the fisher folk, the tax collector, the zealot, the illiterate, literate, the reasonable, the unreasonable, the impetuous and the cowards?  They were of less or no caliber to be disciples of the then trending Master and the Messiah, Jesus Christ.  But Jesus chose them, educated, empowered and sent them among a pack of wolves (Mt. 10:16) with the assurance of his presence with them, “I am with you always, to the very end of the age” (Mt. 28:20).  This is the style of Jesus, the Rabbi par excellence.

These disciples on account of their mission, the preaching of the Good News, Jesus Christ, endured sorrow, torture, persecution, suffering and death, but in perfect peace and  joy.  Today the Church celebrates the feast of Saints Simon and Jude, the apostles of Jesus who belonged to the band of the twelve.  They preached the Gospel in Persia.  They were martyred there on account of their proclamation of the Good News, Jesus Christ.  Simon was sawn in half and Jude was crucified and impaled with javelins.  

We are privileged to have been chosen for Christ through our Baptism.  May the feast of the saints help us to examine about our dedication and contribution to the mission of Christ. Do we stand up for Christ and his teachings, counting not the cost; or yield ourselves in self-preservation for a glimmering worldly honour, glory, pride, pomp, recognition, acceptance, popularity, riches, wealth and success?  Let our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “Lord Jesus, give us the courage to be your witnesses”

Bible Reflections I 27.10.2021 - Wednesday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 30

Readings 

            I - Rom. 8: 26-30

           II - Lk. 13: 22-30

JESUS IS THE SURE DOOR TO HEAVEN

                  

To believe in the one sent - Jesus - is the sure door to salvation and Heaven.  Jesus is the way and the truth and the life (Jh. 14:6).  In the words of St. Peter, “Salvation is found in no one else but Jesus, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved” (Acts 4:12).  The chief shepherd is the door to the sheepfold for he has said, “I am the door.  If anyone enters in by me, he will be saved’ (Jn. 10:9).  Still, he came to his own and his own received him not (Jn. 1:11).  The chosen, the clever, the elite and the learned in their stubbornness of heart and attitude of self-righteousness missed the Messiah for whom they awaited so long.  While the sinners, the tax collectors and the Samaritans in their simplicity of mind and openness of heart accepted him as their Lord and saviour.  This is why Jesus in today’s Gospel passage says, “there are those now last who will be first, and those now first will be last” (Lk. 13: 30).    

“Believe in the Lord Jesus and you will be saved, you and your household” (Acts. 16: 31).  Being merely a Christian does not make one befitting to the Kingdom of Heaven. Accepting Jesus is accepting his life and teaching, following the path that he tread, come what may, would for sure guarantee heaven and salvation.  This is faith and trust in Jesus and a sure road to salvation and heaven.  Let us in the silence of our heart keep repeating: “Lord Jesus, we trust in you”.

Bible Reflections I 26.10.2021 - Tuesday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 30

Readings 

            I - Rom. 8: 18-25

           II - Lk. 13: 18-21

MITE IS MIGHT WITH THE ALMIGHTY

                  

A spark can set a great fire aflame.  Magnificent river originate from an insignificant spring of water.  In today’s Gospel passage Jesus compares the Kingdom of Heaven to a tiny mustard seed from which emerges a great and gigantic tree; and a pinch of yeast ferments the dough of container. Random acts of kindness, love, forgiveness, peace and gentleness can cause a ripple effect around paving way to unity, freedom, fraternity and justice, actualising the Kingdom of god around us.    

There was a detention centre at the Auschwitz, the Nazi concentration camp called Little Camp.  The Jewish parents and elders protected around nine hundred children there having them hidden.  They held classes for them stealthily. Urged them to draw up plans for their future, insisted them to dream about the impossible viz. freedom, justice and a carefree living that paved way for prosperity and futurity. Right there, a seed was sown that later grew up to be a Chairman of ‘The Presidents Commission on the Holocaust’ (New York, USA), Eli Wiesel, a Nobel Peace prize winner, philosopher and the author.  He was the world's leading spokesman on the Holocaust. He was a messenger to mankind, a messenger of peace, atonement and dignity.  He fought against indifference and refuted the attitude of “it’s no concern of mine”.  The materials God use may at time seem to be insignificant and inadequate but once God gets to work, the results can be extraordinary and amazing. 

A right word, an inspiring act, an understanding gesture, a little thoughtfulness, an attitude of let go, a bit of tolerance, a node of sympathy and a gentle tap of appreciation has the great power to turn the world upside down.  Jesus compares faith and the Kingdom of God to a mustard seed.  Our little acts with a little faith can make our earth a heaven.  Our mite is a might in the hands of the almighty.  Let us strive to contribute our little towards the dream of Jesus, the Kingdom of God with all faith and trust in him.  May our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “May your Kingdom come O Lord”.

Bible Reflections I 25.10.2021 - Monday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 30

Readings 

            I - Rom. 8: 12-17

           II - Lk. 13: 10-17

DO GOOD AT ALL TIMES 24X7 

                  

From the Gospel passage today we can draw two points for life.  One, Jesus is the liberator and two, all time is favourable and opportune to accomplish the good.  The woman was possessed by a spirit that had crippled her for eighteen years.  She was bent double and quite unable to stand upright.  Jesus called her and cured her on his own without even her request, on a Sabbath day and in the synagogue where the crowds gathered for prayer and worship. It was solely done to instruct the crowds that there is no time, season or reason to accomplish good works

There is nothing that is impossible with God.  Are we laden with a load of trouble that we are unable to stand straight?  Fear, worry, anxiety, guilt, problems of all sorts: physical, emotional, financial, social, hopelessness, faithlessness, depression and disappointments could grip us to bend to the ground.  Give up not the courage.  Hold on to God in faith and it will be done if that contributes to happiness and wellbeing of our life.  

Some people are so much prone into tradition and superstitions that they look for time, reason and season to accomplish, help and support a person.  Through today’s Gospel passage, Jesus invites for a round the clock service, twenty four into seven, to the needy.  This would make us Christians and credible witnesses of Jesus.  In the silence of our hearts and minds let us pray: “Lord Jesus, make us the sign of your presence”

Bible Reflections I 24.10.2021 - Sunday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 30

Readings 

            I - Jer. 31: 7-9

           II - Heb. 5: 1-6

          III - Mk. 10: 46-52

PRIESTS ARE GOD’S PREDELICTS - MISSION SUNDAY 

                  

The Gospel reading is the fulfillment of the first reading, the prophesy of prophet Jeremiah, in Jesus the only Son of God, appointed by God as a High Priest, a priest forever according to the order of Melchizedek, to gather all people and nation by offering Himself as a sacrifice. In the second reading, letter to the Hebrews we read that every priesthood is modelled after the priesthood of Jesus, the High Priest. None can presume the honour of priesthood unless otherwise called by God, just as Aaron was.  

God in His goodness, mercy and compassion chooses one from among His own people, anoints them and bestows blessings upon them to guide, tend, shepherd, teach, instruct, admonish, reprove, rebuke, exhort, appreciate, forgive, encourage, educate and lead the flock towards God. Great are the responsibilities of the priests of God. It is highly unthinkable and greatly unimaginable of the Church - the Bride of Christ without the priests. Their fragility and weakness is not unknown to God and are remitted as they offer sacrifice to God on behalf of His people by offering themselves too as sacrifice to God.

Today the Church celebrates Mission Sunday. Mission Sunday is a day set aside by the Church to renew our missionary commitment in the propagation of faith. Priests, religious and volunteers are selflessly involved in this noble mission entrusted without counting the cost or convenience to continue and carry out the work of Jesus. Let us be generous in our spiritual and financial support for the missions and pray for priestly and religious vocation in the Church as per the instruction of our Lord, “The harvest is plentiful, but the labourers are few; therefore pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out labourers into his harvest” (Mt. 9: 37). Let our mind and heart resonate with the prayers: “Lord Jesus, send labourers into your field”.

Bible Reflections I 23.10.2021 - Saturday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 29

Readings 

            I - Rom. : 8:1-11

           II - Lk. 13: 1-9

BECOME SENSITIVE TO THE SIGNAL OF GOD

                  

The Israelites considered destruction, disaster, death and misfortune as consequences of sin. Jesus cites two incidents inviting people for repentance and restoration, defending that the Galileans killed by Pilot and the eighteen due to the fall of the Siloam tower were not worse sinners than those survived. The second part of the Gospel passage is about the parable of the barren fig tree where the gardener pleads for one more year with the master as a time gap for the tree to yield the fruit so that he would dig around manure and make it fruitful - signifying the time gap that Jesus pleads with God for the repentance and return of the people to God.  As the Scripture says, “But the more they were called, the more they went away from me” (Hos. 11:2), the people of Israel in their stubbornness of heart failed to adhere to the words of Jesus.  

The one who repents will live forever and the one who refuses will have to be doomed forever.  Every time we sin against love of God and love of neighbour, God signals for repentance and return back through the Word of God, persons, events and above all through our own conscience. God does not punish or condemn us then and there but gives us time gap to come back to Him with converted and convinced heart of repentance and love. As St. Peter says, let us “think of our Lord’s patience as an opportunity to be saved” (2 Pt. 3:15).

Let us be sensitive to catch up with his signal for it could be this minute or this moment as the bible says, “now is the acceptable time, see, now is the day of salvation” (2 Cor. 6:2).  Therefore again as the Bible says, “O that today you would listen to His voice! Do not harden you hearts” (Ps. 95:7).  May our heart and mind resonate with the prayer: “Lord Jesus, Have mercy on me”.

Bible Reflections I 22.10.2021 - Friday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 29

Readings 

            I - Rom. : 7:18-25

           II - Lk. 12: 54-59

St. John Paul II (Pope)

Optional Memorial

BE SMART ENOUGH TO GRASP THE SIGNS OF THE TIME

         

The Gospel excerpt of the day consists of two parts: one, the inability of the crowds to interpret the present time, the time of the Messiah and two, as a consequence missed claiming the mercy of the Messiah. The ‘crowds’ is an inclusive term that contains, the Scribes, the Pharisees, the Sadducees and the common people in general.  Jesus calls them hypocrites because they knew how to interpret the appearance of earth and sky but not the present - the fulfillment of the promise and the prophesies - The Day of the Lord.  A willful neglect to acknowledge and accept the promised one in Jesus, the merciful saviour.  The wilful neglect of the throne of mercy in Jesus would drag them to the throne of justice before the just God as depicted in the parable.  

Sensitivity of mind and openness of heart are the essential requisite to be exposed to the truth present around us.  Only these can help to read and respond to the signs of the time rightly according to the need of the hour making us beneficiaries of the time.  Instead prejudice, pretention, neglect and bias will make us miss the opportunities, possibilities and prospects present around, leaving us losers.  Today the Church celebrates the feast of St. John Paul II.  He is known as the ‘Pope of the family’, ‘Pope of the youth’ and ‘Father of the World Youth Day’.   He had visited around 130 countries striving for unity, peace and harmony.  As a part of his special emphasis on the universal call to holiness, he had canonised 483 saints and had beautified 1,340 people.  St. John Paul II was the much loved pope especially to the young people.  He was loved and revered by all because of his openness and ability to respond rightly to the signs of the time.  May St. John Paul II grant us an openness of heart and mind to accept and acknowledge the truth as it comes with the signs of the time.  Let our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “Holy Spirit Lord, lead us to the truth”.

Bible Reflections I 21.10.2021 - Thursday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 29

Readings 

            I - Rom. : 6:19-23

           II - Lk. 12: 49-53

PEACE - THE PROMISE OF JESUS TO THE PERSONS OF GOODWILL

                 

The Prince of Peace prophesied by Prophet Isaiah (Is. 9:6) upon whose birth the angel sang in unison, “Glory to God in the highest and on earth peace to men of good will” (Lk. 12: 14), in today’s Gospel passage says, “Do you think that I have come to bring peace on earth? No, I tell you, but rather division” (Lk. 12:51).  A division based on love, peace and justice.  There is constant strife between the values of the Kingdom of God and the values of the world; the principles of the Good and the principles of the Evil and between God the creator and the evil, the destroyer.  This strife exists even in the family.  Some choose to live for God, come what may while others are content with the compromising life that is convenient resulting in division in the very own family between the kith and the kin.  Choosing to live up to the life and teaching of Christ Jesus can alienate one from family, friends, society and the nation at large making him a sign of conflict and contradiction causing opposition, confusion, misunderstanding, persecution and suffering.  Still the person seem to enjoy and unlimited peace within himself or herself.  This is the peace that the world cannot give and this is the peace of the risen Lord left with us as his gift to the persons of goodwill.  The peace which the world can neither give not sniff from the people of God - "Peace I leave with you, my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives” (Jn. 14:27).   

Choosing to live for God is a risk and challenge that demands a lot of courage.  May the Lord Jesus give the courage to live up to his teachings so that we become credible and witnessing disciples of Jesus, transforming the world wherever we are still without losing the gift of peace given to us by our Risen Lord.  Let our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “Jesus Lord fill me with your peace”.

Bible Reflections I 20.10.2021 - Wednesday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 29

Readings 

            I - Rom. : 6:12-18

           II - Lk. 12: 39-48

DESTINY IS DETERMINED BY DECISION

                  

“The Son of man is coming at an unexpected hour” (Lk. 12: 40).  We shall reflect on this excerpt from the Gospel passage today.  The Lord’s coming may lurk at any time but how prepared are we?  Blessed is the hour at which the Lord comes to visit us still, shouldn’t we too be blessed to behold him as He comes?  We will be found ready and blessed if we are busy about our work centered on love of God and love of neighbour.  Accomplishing ordinary, simple, daily and routine task with great love, sense of responsibility and fidelity would befit us to behold the King of Kings as and when He comes - be it even an unexpected and odd hour.  If we make charity and love as our way of life, all we accomplish will be set on the right track that we need no worry, fear or anxiety about the hour at which the Lord comes.  

The choices and decisions we make determine our destiny.  For every action there is a reaction and for every choice there is a consequence.  If we choose to live by the teachings of Christ, we can dare to meet Him despite the hour he comes.  Let’s align our lives unto the way of the Lord and march ahead courageously to meet Him as He comes.  May our mind and heart resonate with this prayer: “Lord Jesus, teach me to fix my gaze on you”.

இயேசுவின் வருகைக்காய் விழிப்பாய் இருப்போம் I 19.10.2021 - Tuesday I Rev....

Bible Reflections I 19.10.2021 - Tuesday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 29

Readings 

            I - Rom. : 5:12-15

           II - Lk. 12: 35-38

PREPAREDNESS, PATIENCE AND PERSEVERANCE PAYS

                  

Preparedness, patience and perseverance in waiting to behold the arrival of the master is the required responsibility of a slave.  Preparedness for the service, patience in waiting even if the arrival of the master is delayed and perseverance in accomplishing the responsibility.  Such responsibility will be rewarded by the Master through a role reversal.  The Master will make the slave sit at the table and serve him like a slave.  Jesus calls such a faithful and responsible servant as “blessed”.     

We are Christians entrusted with the responsibility of projecting Christ wherever we are - a witness of His love.  Not to accomplish great and magnificent tasks but a simple and loving service that befits our ability would suffice, but all done in love for the Lord as prescribed by Jesus in Mt. 25: 35-36.  A morsel of bread to those who are hungry, a cup water to those who are thirsty, sheltering a stranger, visiting or caring a sick and considerate towards the suffering, all done in love not for a day or two; or as and when it pleases but till the end of our time when the Lord finally comes to call us to himself, would merit the royal treatment of the Lord towards us in the paradise in his company forever. Let us patiently perseveres in our acts of loving kindness with preparedness to behold the Master as and when he comes.  May our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “Lord Jesus, help me to be faithful to my Christian vocation”.

Bible Reflections I 18.10.2021 - Monday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 29

Readings 

         I - 2Tim: 4:10-17

       II - Lk. 10: 1-9

St. Luke, Evangelist (Feast)

BECOME AN EFFECTIVE MESSENGER OF THE GOOD NEWS

                  

Today the Church celebrates the feast of St. Luke, a gentile convert, passionate proclaimer of Christ and the evangelist.  He was a physician by profession.  He was the author of the Gospel according to Luke and the Acts of the Apostles.  He was the disciple and the missionary companion to Paul. The infancy narrative recorded in his Gospel was the first hand information from Mother Mary herself.  He had a great love and devotion towards the Mother of God.  Besides being a professional physician, St. Luke was also an artist.  The portrait of Mother Mary brought by St. Thomas the Apostle still displayed in St. Thomas Mount, Chennai was painted by St. Luke himself.  He lit the light of faith in the lives of people through his work, words and very life.  

In today’s Gospel passage, Jesus sends out the seventy two in pairs to proclaim the Good News, with enough and above instructions and explanations.  The same mission is entrusted to us too through our Baptism.  It would never suffice if we were to preach the Good News with words alone.  We are called and commissioned to proclaim Christ through our lives as well.  Our very life should inspire and enkindle the faith of people around.  Then can we call ourselves the followers of Christ.  Let us invoke the intercession of St. Luke to help us follow the Lord passionately and propagate the faith in Christ with our very lives.  May the light our life imbue everyone to come under the flock of the Good Shepherd.  May our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “Lord Jesus, empower me to be your effective messenger”.

Bible Reflections I 17.10.2021 - Sunday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 29

Readings 

            I - Is. 53: 10-11

           II - Heb. 4: 14-16

          III - Mk. 10: 35-45

LEADERSHIP IS SERVICE - A PARADIGM SHIFT

                  

The styles of leadership in management are: Autocratic (one man show); Democratic (decentralised authority); Free-Rein (does not lead and avoids power) and Paternalistic (conducts as a head of a family).  In the Gospel passage today, Jesus proposes ‘Servant Leadership’ modelled after his own life as prophesied by Prophet Isaiah in the first reading.  The leadership of Jesus is based on love, kindness, gentleness, meekness, humility and service sans power, pride, prestige, glory, honour, geed, might and arrogance.  Jesus gives a paradigm shift from the leadership style of the Pharisees and the scribes who considered themselves great and lorded over the people to, “whoever wishes to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wishes to be first among you must be a slave of all (Mk. 10:44)”.  

We may consent or will to empower a servant or a slave but would never wish to become one to lead people.  Service is suffering and painful.  Suffering inflicted by the very own people whom we have opted to serve.  It could be our own family members, friends, neighbours, colleagues at the work place and the subordinates.  We might have to endure their misunderstanding, betrayal, abandonment, withdrawal, neglect, coldness, physical and verbal abuse, rumour, disrespect, vengeance and hatred as our lot and reward for our sincere service. At those moments, fear and failure may envelop; discouragement and depression may overpower and defeat and dejection may try to conquer pushing to verge of ‘give up’.  At those moments look up to Jesus - the suffering servant of Yahweh who in every respect has been tested as we are but never sinned and who is able to sympathise with our weakness.  As the second reading proposes, “Let us approach the throne of grace with boldness, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need” (Heb. 4:16). May our mind our heart resonate with the prayer: “Lord Jesus, make me like you”.

தூய ஆவியை பழித்துரைப்பவரா நீங்கள்? I 16.10.2021 - Saturday I Rev. Fr. Ar...

Bible Reflections I 16.10.2021 - Saturday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 28

Readings 

            I - Rom. 4: 13, 16-18

           II - Lk. 12: 8-12

St. Margaret Mary Alacoque, Virgin, Religious (Optional Memorial)

RECOGNISE TO BE RECOGNISED IN THE PARADISE

                  

Through today’s Gospel passage Jesus encourages for a witnessing Christian living with the support of the Holy Spirit, the Advocate, our inspirer and defender. We ought to recognise Jesus in order to be recognised by him in the paradise. Often times Christians try to conceal their identity for the fear of losing favour and privileges; and suffering and persecutions. There is joy in suffering for Christ who came to the earth and died for us out of his unfathomable love for us. We need not fear before authorities for as our Lord has promised the Holy Spirit would give us the right word to speak, courage to endure, strength to suffer and tactfulness to tackle.  

Dare to acknowledge Jesus before others, for the joy that we are about to behold on this account worth enduring the suffering, pain, false accusations and persecution. Stand up for the truth, voice for the voiceless, side with justice, support the helpless and defend the righteous. This may cost isolation, neglect, defamation, separation and suffering, but they are the proof of our love and recognition for Jesus Christ to whom we belong. Today the Church celebrates the feast of St. Margaret Mary Alacoque, a religious nun to whom Jesus has appeared several times and revealed His loving Sacred Heart that suffers coldness, ingratitude and neglect of the human beings towards his benevolent love. St. Margaret Mary Alacoque says, “One cannot love without suffering”; “Crosses, contempt, sorrows and afflictions are the real treasures of the lovers of Jesus Christ crucified”. May the Holy Spirit give us the courage to endure everything for the great love of the Lord; loved in return for his supreme love.

St. Theresa of Avila I 15.10.2021 - Friday I Rev. Fr. Arokia Doss SDB I...

Bible Reflections I 15.10.2021- Friday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 28

Readings 

            I - Rom. 4: 1-8

           II - Lk. 12: 1-7

St. Theresa of Avila, Virgin, Doctor (Memorial)

GOD CARETH FOR YOU

                  

Jesus cautions his disciples against the yeast of the Pharisees - their hypocrisy.  He instructs them not to follow anyone in fear for they can only kill the body and nothing more afterwards. Instead, to fear God who has the authority to cast into hell.  He goes on to speak about the care, concern and providence of God.  Five sparrows for two pennies means an insignificant value of the sparrow, still, not even one of them is forgotten by God.  Human beings are much more valuable to God that even their hairs of the head are counted.

We are created in the likeness and image of God (Gen. 1: 27).  We contain God’s breadth in our being (Gen. 2:7).   We are made like God but less than a God (Ps. 8:5).  We are crowned with God’s glory and honour (Ps. 8:5).  We are precious in the eyes of God, honoured and loved by Him (Is. 43:4).  Still, we fled in fear, delve in diffidence, wane in worry and live in anxiety.  Today the Church celebrates the feast of St. Theresa of Avila who says, “Let nothing disturb you, Let nothing frighten you, though all things pass, God does not change. He lacks nothing who possesses God; For God alone suffices”.  Yes, cast all your worries and anxieties on Him as the Bible says, for God cares for you (1Pt. 5:7).  May our mind and heart resonate with the prayer, “Jesus, I trust in you”.

அறச்சினம் பழகு... I 14.10.2021 - Thursday I Rev. Fr. Arokia Doss SDB I I...

Bible Reflections I 14.10.2021 - Thursday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 28

Readings 

            I - Rom. 3: 21-30

           II - Lk. 11: 47-54

WE ARE THE CHILDREN OF GOD CALLED TO BE BLESSED                  

In today’s Gospel passage, Jesus reprimands the Pharisees, the Scribes and the lawyers for their hypocrisy.  They built monuments for the prophets whom their ancestors killed, falsely projecting that they would have listened to those prophets if they had been then and that they did it as an atonement for killing the prophets.  They reproved the act of their ancestors while in reality they were not better than them at all. The Scribes and the Lawyers were the official interpreters of the Scripture.  Their interpretation was difficult and distorted that the people were discouraged, disoriented and distanced themselves from the religion. This is why Jesus upbraids the Pharisees, Scribes and the Lawyers for their superficial religion, self-righteousness, self-glory, absolute influence, greedy hearts, false accusations, rejection of truth and above all for their hypocrisy and double standard living.

God created us, His children to be simple, happy, caring, sharing, helping and making life for one another easy, enthusiastic, happy and interesting.  If we conduct our lives unto God’s ways we can hear God saying “Blessed are you”.  Let us conduct our lives befitting to our calling as the ‘Children of God’.  May be ever remain original, real and simple; God’s blessings too will be ever upon us.

Bible Reflections I 13.10.2021 - Wednesday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 28

Readings 

            I - Rom. 2: 1-11

           II - Lk. 11: 42-46

ALL FOR GOD OR VAINGLORY?

                  

The Scribes and the Pharisees faithfully followed and passionately promulgated the rigorous rules and ratifying rituals to the minutest detail. This created in them an attitude of pride, self-righteousness and self-glorification. They were so keen in observing the ‘Shema Israel’ - “Here O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one...You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart…” (Deu. 6: 4) but failed in charity, love and brotherhood. Under the pretext preserving the rituals and traditions of the law, they diluted the spirit of the law. In this way they made the life of the common, simple and ordinary people, a difficult, cumbersome and a tiring one. It was this religious fanaticism of the Scribes and the Pharisees that Jesus reprimanded.

In today’s context too, people are ready to do anything, all that they can for God. Donation for the church work, undertaking a pilgrimage as an expression of their love and devotion, offerings to God with unlimited pride and parade, observance of all externals as an expression of piety and faith…Everything is sometimes done under the pretext of love for God but purely to pamper one’s pride, ego, self-righteousness and vain glory. For these are an abomination to God. Seek for justice, peace, love, peace, brotherhood and charity, for such sacrifices are sweet aroma to the Lord and are pleasing in the sight of the Lord. Let us love the Lord in our neighbour, then shall we become credible witnesses of Christ Jesus, our Lord.

உள்ளத்தூய்மை தா இறைவா I 12.10.202 - Tuesday I Rev. Fr. Arokia Doss SDB I...

Bible Reflections I 12.10.2021 - Tuesday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 28

Readings 

            I - Rom. 1: 16-25

           II - Lk. 11: 37-41

LORD CREATE IN ME A CLEAN HEART

                  

Today’s Gospel passage is all about an action, a reaction and a lesson.  An action - Jesus purposely took his place at the table without washing his hands; a reaction - the Pharisee who had invited Jesus to dine with him was amazed at the action of Jesus because a Jew cannot do this and all the more Jesus was considered to be a great Rabbi and; a lesson - Jesus took this opportunity to enlighten that the Pharisee worried so much about the cleanliness of the exterior while he was full of greed and wickedness inside.  The rituals diluted the rubrics of the religion that gave so much of importance to the purity of heart and mind.  

Even today people stress so much about the rituals that they forget to retain the love charity behind all rituals.  It’s true that we too worry too much about exterior cleanliness but fail to care for our mind and heart.  Some do get psychologically affected by constantly worrying about the exterior cleanliness while they are full of greed, wickedness, anger, jealousy, hatred, rancor and rivalry.  It is this that actually makes a person unclean making the lives of other too miserable.  Let us be concerned about conducting our interior life with the fear of the lord, love for him and the humanity with purity of mind and heart, then can we claim ourselves to be people of God.  May our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “Lord Jesus, create in me a clean heart”.

Bible Reflections I 11.10.2021 - Monday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 28

Readings 

            I - Rom. 1: 1-7

           II - Lk. 11: 29-32

St. Jonh XXIII, Pope (Memorial)

BEHOLD THE TRUTH WITH THE OPENNESS OF HEART

                  

When Jonah, the prophet proclaimed God’s warning to the people of Nineveh, they accepted, repented and were saved.  The Queen of Sheeba came all the way from the ends of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon.  The Ninevites and the Queen of Sheeba were gentiles, non-Jews.  Still, the former accepted and repented; and the later took up a tedious journey.  Jesus was not merely a prophet but the Son of God, long awaited Messiah, the Promised One.  Jesus’ Words and actions testified to his identity as Messiah but then, as Scripture says, “he came to his own and his own received him not” (Jh. 1:11).  It is not that the Jewish religious leaders needed a sign, it is the stubbornness of their hearts that refused to accept Jesus as the Messiah because Jesus did not fit into the frame they had set in their minds for the Messiah.  The humble origin, simple lifestyle, the multitude of sinners, outcasts, women, children and tax collectors around him and his way of making religion easy for people made the religious fanatics to get away with Jesus in their willful neglect.    

In the light of the Gospel passage today, let us examine our own lives.  We are prone to accept and adhere to people who are similar to us in our though patterns, life style, view point and wave length.  Even if the other is going to slightly differ we are not able to accept.  If we continue conducting our life this way, we too like the Israelites, God’s own people, may miss the messengers of God and the wisdom of truth in our stubbornness, pride, self-righteousness and arrogance.  Let us pray that the Lord may give us the simplicity of heart, openness of mind and humility in life to accept God’s people and God’s Word to yield thirty, sixty and hundredfold (Mt. 13:8) as Jesus says in the parable of the sower.  

Today the Church fondly and gratefully remembers St. John XXIII, a simple yet a revolutionary pope in the history of the Catholic Church.  It was his openness to the reality that brought great reformation in the Church.  In his first public address he expressed his concern for the reunion of the separated Christians and for world peace. Less than three months after his election as a pope, he announced for a diocesan synod for Rome, the first one in the history of Rome, to convoke an ecumenical council for the Universal Church and the pontifical commission to revise the Code of Canon Law.  He daringly convoked the Vatican Council II in 1962 that brought a drastic change in the Catholic Church making it more relevant responding rightly to the signs of the times.  Through the intercession of such a simple yet a great saint let us implore for an openness of heart to behold the truth in the reality as we keep praying: “Lord Jesus, give me the openness of heart and mind to accept the truth”

Wealth or Life Eternal? I 10.10.2021 - Sunday I Rev. Fr. Arokia Doss SDB...

Bible Reflections I 10.10.2021 - Sunday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 28

Readings 

            I - Wis. 7: 7-11

           II - Heb. 4: 12-13

          III - Mk. 10: 17-30

WISDOM IS THE WORD OF GOD

                  

The spirit of wisdom worth more than a priceless pearl, gold, health and beauty. The radiance of the light of wisdom never wanes. The Word of God is alive and active. It has the power to pervade the entire being to judge the intentions of heart. The Word of God is light to the minds and warmth to the hearts. It is a lamp to our feet and a light to our path (Ps. 119:105). Wisdom comes with the willingness to adhere to the Word of God. In the Gospel passage today, Jesus exhorts the man who asked Jesus for the way to eternal life, to sell away his riches and give to the poor so as to inherit eternal life. The Word of God came as wisdom to sell all so as to receive all, give up all so as to get back all, lose all so as to gain all and to part with all so as to part take in the eternal glory of the Lord forever. But the man in his richness rejected the wisdom that came with the words of Jesus and went away in shock and sadness. 

To live by the Word of God is wisdom. It is the way to life eternal. It contains the pattern for a blissful life that challenges our trending life style. Some start the day with the Word of God and end the day also with the Word God, print and circulate the Word of God, take pride in memorizing the Word of God, carry the Word of God with them in their pocked, read, listen and view the reflections based on the Word of God and some of them fill their homes with posters, pictures and hangings containing the Word of God; but let us examine: Do we allow the Word of God to touch and transform our lives? Mere reading will not make any difference; make it a life style. Let us in all wisdom yield ourselves unto the Word of God in order to inherit life eternal. May our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “Lord Jesus, help us to adhere to you words”

தாய்மை என்னும் இறைமை I 09.10.2021 - Saturday I Rev. Fr. Arokia Doss SDB ...

Bible Reflections I 09.10.2021 - Saturday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 27

Readings 

          I - Joel 3: 12-21

        II - Lk. 11: 27-28

WANNA TO BE CALLED THE BLESSED?

                 

Listening to the words of Jesus and witnessing the miracles performed by him, a woman in the crowd blessed the mother of Jesus, on his accord.  Jesus lifted up the spirit of the crowd around him saying, “Blessed rather are those who hear the Word of God and obey it”.  Mary besides being the mother of Jesus, was a humble handmaid of God, who submitted herself to the will of God at all times.  It was her obedience to the Word of God through the angel Gabriel that brought the Saviour to the World and salvation to the mankind.  And so she became the “Blessed of all women” (Lk. 1:42) as said by the angel Gabriel.

Normally people tend to befriend especially those who are propelling in popularity and glowing in glory among people and take pride in calling them their friends.  It is quite natural and normal.  How much pride should we have if we are to be recognised as friends of God? It is challenging and demanding.  Challenging because we should dare to go against the principles of the existing world order and demanding because in the bargain to live up to the standards set by God we may have to give up ego and will.  If we are ready to take up the challenge and dare to live by the demands of the Word of God, then we too shall become the friends and the ‘blessed’ of God.  May our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “Lord Jesus, teach us to live by your Word”.

Bible Reflections I 08.10.2021 - Friday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 27

Readings 

           I - Joel 1: 13-15, 2: 1-2

           II - Lk. 11: 15-26

RESPOND RIGHTLY TO REACTIONS  

       

A possessed and dumb man was brought to Jesus.  Jesus casted out the demon and the man began to speak.  This action of Jesus created two different reactions among the people who witnessed.  One group was amazed, astounded and astonished and the other group argued, accused and unapproved Jesus.  Jesus, the Son of God was misrepresented and was unjustly associated with Beelzebul, the ruler of the demons.  Some even asked for sign from heaven to testify to his credibility even though Jesus was performing miracles after miracles among them.  Jesus neither justified himself nor argued with them.  He only enlightened and inspired them to think; and left them to conclude for themselves.  

Sir Newton’s third laws says, “For every action in nature there is an equal opposite reaction”.  The Son of God was associated with Beelzebul, the ruler of the demons but still he was never perturbed or disturbed.  He never got struck up anywhere at the cutting comments of the people.  He just moved on minding his work like a river causing newness, happiness, life, hope, love and joy wherever he went.  There serenity came from the self-awareness and the conviction that he is the Son of God; and the clarity of his purpose and mission drove him to forge ahead in his mission and ministry responding rightly and tackling tactfully all reactions of all types of people.  Let us too forge ahead focusing on God with constant reference to our conscience.  May the Holy Spirit help us to respond rightly to the reactions of people around us as did Jesus our Master.

Our Lady of Rosary I 07.10.2021 - Thursday I Rev. Fr. Arokia Doss SDB I ...

Bible Reflections I 07.10.2021 - Thursday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 27

Readings 

             I - Mal. 3: 13 - 4:2

           II - Lk. 11: 5-13

Our Lady of the Rosary (Memorial)

PRAYER IS A-S-K ACCOMPANIED BY CHARITY, FAITH AND HOPE  

                  

Prayer is all about A.S.K. (Ask-search-knock) incorporated with the theological virtues and in persistence. Ask with charity, search with faith and knock with hope and it shall be done. Ask God in love: love for God, self and neighbour so that we be selfless and right in addressing our petitions, invocations and intercessions to the Lord. Search for God with utmost faith even when all around is dark for the Bible says, “Even the darkness is not dark to you; the night is bright as the day, for darkness is as light with you” (Ps. 139:12) so that we find him so closer to us than our very breath (Ps. 46: 1). Knock at the door of the paradise with a hope of a child towards his father and will be opened. Never cease to ASK with Charity, Faith and Hope and it will be done all for the good of the person and for the glory of God.

Today we celebrate the Feast of Our Lady of Rosary, a feast promulgated by Pope Pius V as a gratitude to God for the victory of the Christians that was wrought by praying the Rosary during the battle against the Turks at Lepanto. Mother Mary in almost all her apparitions have insisted and exhorted the humanity to pray and pray. May our Blessed Mother, our model and our guide teach us to turn to God in prayer with charity, faith and hope in our ASK. Let us today pray the rosary, calling out her name tenderly and lovingly to assist us, her children to persevere in prayer and in loving relationship with the Lord.

இறைவா உம் சித்தமே எம் சித்தமாக... I 06.10.2021 - Wednesday I Rev. Fr. A...

Bible Reflections I 06.10.2021- Wednesday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 27

Readings 

            I - Jonah 4: 1-11

           II - Lk. 11: 1-4

MAKE PRAYER MERGE WITH LIFE  

                  

From the Gospel passage today we infer that every rabbi taught his disciples to pray. Inspired by the prayer life of Jesus, the disciples insisted Jesus to teach them too to pray. May be because they realised that the power of his words and the passion for his mission was the fruit of his prayer life. The life was Jesus was a life of integrity. The credibility of the life of Jesus made the disciples to desire for learning how to pray.  

Prayer is the well spring and life stream of a happy, contented, joyful, peaceful and fruitful living. The happiness and contentment come from humble acceptance submission to the will of God in prayer. Prayer paves a hotline connect with God helping us courageously face all things is life with the serenity and tranquility. Having learnt the pattern of prayer from Jesus himself, let us in line with the prayer ‘Our Father’ take delight in seeking and accomplishing the will of the Father as did Jesus instead of making our prayer a repetition of ‘give me this and give me that’. Merge the life of prayer with the life of action and make living an integrated and a credible one like Jesus our Lord and Master. May our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “Lord Jesus, bless me with a life of integrity”.

Bible Reflections I 05.10.2021 - Tuesday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 27

Readings 

            I - Jonah 3: 1-10

           II - Lk. 10: 38-42

St. Faustina Kowlaska, Virgin (Optional Memorial)

          

LOVE THE LORD WITH AN UNDIVIDED HEART  

                

Martha welcomed Jesus into her home.  The two sisters chose their own roles in expressing their hospitality and love to their beloved guest, Jesus: Martha, to serve the Lord and her sister Mary, to sit at the feet of the Lord and to listen to him.  Mary was considered to have chosen the better part because she was totally present to the Lord in listening to him that she was neither distracted nor disturbed by anything or anyone.  On the other hand, Martha was working for the Lord but she was worried about many things that she began to blame Mary and accuse Jesus for not caring about her when she was alone doing all works.  Which is better?  To choose and to be committed or to choose and to be distracted? Mary was committed in listening to the Lord, the lot that she chose therefore Mary had chosen the better part. 

In our expression of love and devotion to the Lord we do often compare and contrast ourselves with others.  The expression and devotion to the Lord could be in our prayer life, in our listening to the Word of God, in helping the poor, in serving the needy, in rescuing the suffering, in relieving the oppressed and in loving the least in the society.  In this process one need not compare and get distracted but to accomplish with utmost devotion, love, care and reverence.  Otherwise all our works and efforts would go a waste in vain.  Let us choose the better part like Mary in loving and serving the Lord with love.  Today the Church celebrates the feast of St. Faustina Kowlaska to whom Jesus appeared as the King of Divine Mercy and insisted that ,”Humanity will not find peace until it turns trustfully to divine mercy”.  Let us turn trustfully towards the Lord imploring for His grace in choosing the right part and be committed it till the end like Mary as we keep repeating in the silence of our heart: “Christ Jesus, I trust in you”.

St. Francis of Assisi I 04.10.2021 - Monday I Rev. Fr. Arokia Doss SDB I...

Bible Reflections I 04.10.2021 - Monday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 27

Readings 

           I - Jonah 1: 1-2 - 2: 1, 10

           II - Lk. 10: 25-37

St. Francis of Assisi, Religious (Memorial)

          

LOVE OF GOD VESTS IN LOVE OF NEIGHBOUR  

                  

The image and likeness of God dwells in every person and in the entire humanity.  Therefore no one can love God and hate the other and vice versa.  Whenever we read the parable of the Good Samaritan, our reason would definitely accuse the Priest and the Levite for their duplicity and debauchery.  We are prone to praise, hail, exalt and appreciate the kindness of the Samaritan, an outcast to the Jews.  Instead of pointing in accusation at the Priest and the Levite, put yourself in their place and examine your reaction and response in a similar situation.  

People tend to walk away from the weeping person, slip away cautiously from the suffering, deliberately detest needy and remain adamantly deaf to the truth and silent to the atrocities done to others.  Having done all these, sit in silence before the Lord in praise, prayer and worship.  Isn’t this pharisaic?  Moved by a loving heart and in all kindness when we render a helping hand to the needy, then can we claim that we love God.  

Today the Church celebrates the feast of St. Francis of Assisi.  Francis of Assisi was from a Nobel wealthy family.  He was the son of a cloth merchant.  Enamored by the love of God, he emptied everything and embraced poverty to the extent of stripping himself off his clothes. From love of God to love of neighbour, St. Francis of Assisi went a step ahead to embrace the entire creation of God in love and friendship to the extent of calling God’s creation as brothers and sisters viz. Mother earth, brother sun, sister moon, brother fire and sister water in his ‘Canticle of creature’. 

 Let us invoke the intercession of St. Francis of Assisi, to help us love God in every person so that we may be right in our loving relationship with the Lord.

Bible Reflections I 03.10.2021 - Sunday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 27

Readings 

            I - Gen. 2: 18-24

           II - Heb. 2: 9-11

          III - Mk. 10: 2-16

MARRIAGE IS A COVENANT AND NOT A CONTRACT

                  

In the first reading today, when God brought the woman He had made from the rib of Adam, he said, “This is at last is bone of my bones and flesh of my flesh”.  In the Gospel passage Jesus says, “…and the two shall become one flesh”.  These verses get consummated in the Sacrament of Marriage.  The sacrament of marriage binds a man and a woman into a covenantal relationship making them but one soul, one flesh and one spirit.  Marriage is not a contract but a covenant.  Contract is an agreement for the accomplishment of a specific task within the specified time and it ends with the completion of the task.  On the other hand marriage is a covenant and therefore it is a lifelong commitment to one another in love, fidelity and faithfulness.  Marriage is the replica of the covenant established between God and His people Israel; and between Jesus and His Church.  According to the Canon Law, unity and indissolubility are the essential properties of marriage.

In the current scenario, relationships are based on the value of utility diluting to the level of the things that are used.  In almost all things we look for updates, new version, revised editions and new models paving way to the ‘use and throw’ culture.  This is reflected in the marital life too, failing to keep the promise that constitute the covenant of marriage, “…I promise to be true to you in good times and in bad, in sickness and in health, I will love you and honour you all the days of my life”.  Mutual Love, forgiveness, caring, sharing, forbearing, sacrifice but above all daily prayers together can preserve marriage from breach and break up thereby preserving and persevering in the promise made at marriage.  Let us every day set aside some time for family prayer because ‘the family that prays together, stays together'.

I The Holy Guardian Angels I 02.10.2021 - Saturday I Rev. Fr. Arokia Dos...

Bible Reflections I 02.10.2021 - Saturday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 26

Readings 

         I - Bar. 4: 5-12, 27-29

       II - Lk. 10: 17-24

The Holy Guardian Angels (Memorial)

WE ARE EMPOWERED TO EMPOWER

                  

The seventy two sent on a mission by Jesus returned to him with the joy of performing and accomplishing the wondrous deeds in the name of Jesus.  Jesus enkindled their flame of fervor and enthusiasm enlightening about the power granted to them to tread and trample down all evil powers; and gave them the reason to rejoice that their names were written in heaven.  Jesus gave thanks and blessed the Father on their accord for choosing mere children to reveal His power.

We are weak and fragile being containing the power of God within us as St. Paul would say, “But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us” (2 Cor. 4:7). Hence we can do all things in Christ who strengthen us (Phil. 4:13).  Our talent, glory, honour and riches come from God and therefore “let the one who boasts boast in the Lord” (1 Cor. 1:31).  Allow not pride to overpower instead praise aloud in joy and thanksgiving to the Lord for we have found favour in the eyes of the Lord.  

We are lit by God to  light the lives of many.  We are empowered by God to empower the underprivileged, the abandoned, the oppressed, the neglected, the poor and the marginalised.  Today the Church celebrates the feast of the Guardian Angels, entrusted by God with the task of assisting and accompanying us constantly aligning our ways unto the ways of God till we enter into that life eternal.  May the timely support and guidance of our guardian angels help us to become one like them to others in our striving to make this earth a heaven.