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”.

Bible Reflections I 08.11.2021 - Monday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 32

Readings 

           I - Wis. 1: 1-7

          II - Lk. 17: 1-6

          

HAVE FAITH AND HAVE ALL

                  

The three takeaways for life from the Gospel passage of the day are: One, not to be a cause of stumbling to anyone; secondly, to forgive an offender again and again, untiringly and unceasingly; and finally anything is possible to the one who has faith.  

Faith in the Lord leads to fear of the Lord. The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. Any wise person would certainly abide by the Word of God and avoid all that is forbidden by the Lord. Hence, he/she would dare not to be a scandal to anyone and would dare to accomplish all that is commanded by the Law of the Lord. Let our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “Lord Jesus fill us with faith”.

Bible Reflections I 07.11.2021 - Sunday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 32

Readings 

           I - I Kings 17: 10-16

          II - Heb. 9: 24-28

          II - Mk. 12: 38-44

GIVE AND IT WILL BE GIVEN TO YOU

                  

Generosity and Sacrifice is the crux of all three readings today.  In the first reading, the widow from Zarephath, famine stricken place, was ready to sacrifice their last portion of morsel that was left behind with Prophet Elijah.  In the second reading, God so loved the world that he sent His own son to redeem the humankind (Jn. 3:16) from sin and slavery; and Jesus, the High Priest offered himself as a sacrifice once and for all for the ransom of many (1 Tim. 2:6).  And the Gospel passage is about the widow’s mite who offered everything she had, all she had to live one (Mk. 12: 44).  God never wishes to owe anything for all that is done in His name. The jar of meal was not emptied and the jug of oil never failed and this was the reward to the Zarephath women for her generosity and sacrifice.  The generous sacrifice of himself on the cross by the Son of God is rewarded with the salvation of humankind restoring their dignity as children of God.  The appreciation of Jesus is the highest reward to the poor widow’s generosity who offered two copper coins.    

Jesus says, “Give and it will be given to you: good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over, will be given to you” (Lk. 6: 38).  Our God is a generous God.  Whatever given in generosity will be rewarded in hundredfold by God.  Let us be generous in sharing our time, talent, skill, energy and money with others with a cheerful heart for God loves a cheerful giver.  May our mind and heart resonate with the prayer:  “Lord Jesus, help me to be generous”.

Bible Reflections I 06.11.2021 - Saturday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 31

Readings 

           I - Rom. 16: 3-9, 16, 22-27

          II - Lk. 16: 9-15

GOD OR WEALTH - THE CHOICE IS YOURS

                  

The Pharisees were rich, elite and learned.  They distinguished themselves by strict observance of the law and traditions and appeared to be highly religious and Godly people while in reality they were not.  Their focus was on power, position, name, fame, popularity and riches that deviated their attention from God and his precepts.  They were highly hypocrites with self-righteous and fault finding attitude.  This is why Jesus said, “No one can serve two masters; for a slave will either hate the one and love the other, or be devoted to the one and despise the other.  You cannot serve God and wealth” (Lk. 16: 13).  Jesus invited them to fix focus on any one thing contradicting their double standard living.

One can never stand up for two things at a time.  Either ‘this’ or ‘that’ and never ‘this and that’.  All that is fake and duplicate has the capacity to allure and alienate one from God that is real, absolute and the ultimate.  No one ever who has fixed focus on the riches of the world have got contented or satisfied with the same.  In the process of gaining riches, wealth, power, honour, popularity and status, they get alienated from God, people and from their very own family members.  On the other hand, the one who chooses God chooses to be with His suffering humanity enduring all suffering on this account still filled with serenity, peace, joy, hope and peace.  Wealth of this world would not follow us after our life here on this earth while choosing God would follow us to reward with the joy of being with the Lord in the Paradise forever.  The choice is ours.  

Today being the first Saturday of the month, we fondly remember our Blessed Mother who positioned her life centering on God.  May she be our model and guide in choosing God again and again in our little choices of life.  Let our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “Mother Mary, teach us to fix our focus on God”.

Bible Reflections I 05.11.2021 - Friday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 31

Readings 

           I - Rom. 15: 14-21

          II - Lk. 16: 1-8

BE SHREWD ENOUGH TO INHERIT LIFE ETERNAL

                  

Today’ Gospel passage is about the parable of the dishonest manager.  The dishonest manager was shrewd and acted smart when he knew that his position would be taken away from him because of his squandering.  He made a SWOT analysis of himself quickly and followed a strategy.  A strategy that even if the rich man dismissed him, he would be welcomed by the debtors of the rich man and so he restructured the debts of the debtors.  A strategic planning for an honoured sustenance after his dismissal by the rich man!

“The children of this age are shrewder in dealing with their own generation than are the children of light” (Lk. 16: 8).  Our life here on the earth is a shadow and would swiftly pass away.  But we spend our time and energy and strive so much for a decent and an honoured living.  We are meticulous in planning for our education, employment, career opportunities and career development.  We are shrewd and act smart for a happy living here on the earth that is impermanent but seldom do we concentrate on our happy living for eternity with the Lord, in that paradise.  

Love is the only strategy that would unlock the Kingdom of God and make us befitting too to be in that Kingdom.  Be smart and shrewd in practicing the strategy of love in order to be welcomed by the Lord, “Come, you who are blessed by my Father, take your inheritance, the Kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world” (Mt. 25:34).  Today, being the first Friday of the month, a day dedicated to the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, let us constantly keep praying: “Sacred Heart of Jesus, fill my heart with your love”

Bible Reflections I 04.11.2021 - Thursday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 31

Readings 

           I - Rom. 14: 7-12

          II - Lk. 15: 1-10

GATHER WITH JESUS

                  

All precious stones set in their place in a jewel, but one missing would matter much to the owner making him dismal and disappointed. What if one of many is missing while others are well set in their place?  That one stone makes the jewel complete adding beauty and perfection.  Jesus is the Good Shepherd.  He came to seek and save the lost; oil and bandage the wounded and gather all in to the sheepfold even at the cost of his own life.  His care is for all the sheep while his concern is for that of the lost, the last and the least unlike the self-righteous shepherds of his time - the Scribes, the Pharisees, the Sadducees and the Priests.  The presence of the Scribes and the Pharisees was stern, threatening, judging, imposing the impossibilities and humiliating especially to the sinners and the tax collectors.  On the other hand, the presence of the righteous one, Jesus, the Son of God was encouraging, edifying, soothing, comforting, motivating, inspiring and above all welcoming.  In short the presence of Jesus was one of gathering the scattered sheep of Israel.

In the light of the Gospel passage today, let us examine our presence amidst the people around us.  Often times we do like the Scribes and the Pharisees, label, brand, neglect, ostracise and alienate people for various reasons and also grumble and speak ill of those who associate with them. We also forget our identity as Christians, the followers of Christ with the mission of gathering all into the Kingdom of God.  Strive to become like Jesus, in attitude, presence, behaviours and gestures so as to gather with him all his sheep into the sheepfold.  May our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “Jesus, meek and humble of heart, make my heart like yours”.

Bible Reflections I 03.11.2021 - Wednesday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 31

Readings 

           I - Rom. 13: 8-10

          II - Lk. 14: 25-33

THE THREE Ds OF DISCIPLESHIP

                  

The cost of discipleship is all about 3Ds, one leading to the other viz. Decision, Detachment and Dedication.  Decision to follow the Lord that calls for detachment.  Detachment leads to dedication in the radical following of Jesus. Jesus in today’s Gospel passage illustrates two metaphors: a person intending to build a tower first sit down and estimate the cost and secondly, the king make peace with his opponent who is stronger than him.  Tasks taken up cannot be given up for any reason. Following the Lord demands detachment that liberates a person for a complete dedication in the carrying of the cross that comes across in the pursuit of following Jesus.  Jesus says, “No one who puts a hand to a plow and looks back is fit for service in the kingdom of God” (Lk. 9:62)  

Christian living calls for complete commitment to the life and teaching of Jesus.  A witnessing life to the truth.  To be a Christian is a decisive decision to follow the way our Master had tread. Attachment to persons, wealth or for that matter even to one’s own life should not hinder a Christian to live by the principles of Jesus.  A follower of Christ cannot but be dedicated to the commandment of Jesus, Love: for God and neighbour.  It is not easy but suffering and cross on our path. To befriend the poor, strive for justice, stand for righteousness, voice out for the voiceless and refute the rich and the powerful is challenging but possible for the one who is attached to Christ and dedicated to his mission with the firm decision to follow him come what may.  May our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “Lord Jesus, teach me to follow you”.

Bible Reflections I 02.11.2021 - Tuesday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 31

Readings 

           I - Job. 19: 1, 23-27

           II - Rom. 6: 3-4, 8-9

          III - Mt. 5: 1-12

ALL SOULS DAY (Optional Memorial)

          

The communion of saints subsists in the three states of the Church viz. the Triumphant, Penitent and the Militant.  Yesterday we joyously celebrated the victory of the Triumphant Church, the reward of all who stood steadfast in the Lord during their journey here on the earth.  Today we are invited to pray for the Penitent Church, for those holy souls who are in the state of atonement for their sins.  These holy souls await our suffrages and intercession with the Lord for them, so that they may dwell in the joy of being with the Lord for her. While the ‘All Souls Day’ is an ‘alert’, the ‘All Saints Day’ is an ‘assurance’ to the Militant Church.  An ‘alert’ to align our lives unto the ways of God and an ‘assurance’ that we are destined to dwell in and with the Lord forever. 

We fondly remember today all our departed parents, kith and kin, friends, relatives, dear and near ones who had been a part of what we are today.  There are still so many others completely forgotten by the people on earth.  It is our bounden duty to generously offer our prayers to all of them for their eternal repose.  The prayers we make on their behalf benefits mutually.  Our prayers will help the departed to enter the paradise, the eternal bliss and their constant intercession with the Lord for us will strengthen, support and assist us in our earthly journey that will make us befitting to enter the heaven on the completion of our journey here on the earth.

The Church dedicates the month of November to remember and pray for the Holy Souls.  Offer every one of our word, deed, prayers and the Holy Mass for the eternal repose of our departed brethren. Let us keep praying as often as possible the following prayer trusting in the mercy of God: “Eternal rest grant unto them O Lord; and let perpetual light shine upon them. May they rest in peace. Amen”.