Bible Reflections I 01.02.2022 - Tuesday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 4

Readings 

           I - 2Sam. 18: 9-10, 14, 24-25, 30-19:3

          II - Mk. 5: 21-43

                       

FAITH RAISES AND RESTORES

The Gospel passage of the day is about healing of the woman who suffered from severe hemorrhage and the rising of Jairus daughter.  Both were in a way dead: only socially dead and the other physically dead.  The woman in hemorrhage experienced a social death because she was considered to be unclean and was in a way ostracised from associating with others. One was raised from death and the other was restored back to her health and society.  This was possible because of the faith of the woman and the faith of Jairus.  Faith in God raises and restores.

When problems, worries and fears seem to grip us up in to depression, stress and setbacks, take the woman and Jairus as models and seek the Lord. Jesus has promised that we can even move mountains with our faith like mustard seed and that to the one who has faith nothing is impossible.  Faith is basically a gift of the Holy Spirit.  Let us ask the Lord for the gift of faith so that we might be victorious and successful in all that we do. May our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “Lord Jesus, fill us with the gift of faith”.

Bible Reflections I 31.02.2022 - Monday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 4

Readings 

           I - 2Sam. 15: 13-14, 30; 16: 5-13

          II - Mk. 5: 1-20

                            

FEAST OF DON BOSCO

The Church today celebrates the feast of St. John Bosco, the Educator, the Father and the Friend of the youth. He was born in a poor family in Becchi, Italy. He lost his father when he was two and half years old and had witnessed the struggle of his mother in bringing up the children. Because he was fatherless he knew the tussles of the fatherless children and chose to become a priest and be a father to the fatherless children. He loved the youth and was passionate about their holiness. He used to say, “It is enough that you are young, for me to love you” and would also often say, “I am ready to drag my tongue from Valdocco to Superga (a hill in Italy) to save the soul of even one boy”. His educational methodology and formula of sanctity holds good and applicable for all time. His educational system was a matter of heart primarily and it consisted in reason, religion and loving kindness. His formula for holiness is simple and practicable - “Cheerfulness”. This is why he used to say to his boys, “Run, jump, play but do not sin”. He founded the Salesian congregation with St. Francis de Sales as its Patron Saint. He was so much inspired and taken up by the gentleness and kindness of St. Francis de Sales. He had tremendous trust in Mary, Help of Christians that so much so she is called as Don Bosco’s Madonna. Right from his dream of seven wherein Jesus appeared and gave Mother Mary as his teacher; from then on he trusted the Madonna and accomplished astonishing works and towards the end of his life he said proudly with the profound love and utmost piety, “Mary did it all”.  

In today’s Gospel passage we read Jesus chasing away the demons from the possessed man. Don Bosco as follower of the Lord modeled after the heart of the Good Shepherd, Jesus, has saved many who were astray from God and brought them back on the road of sanctity. As Christians, let us also align our lives unto the precepts of Christ our Lord, and help others as well to tread on the roads of sanctity. May Saint Don Bosco help us in this pursuit. Let our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “Saint Don Bosco, Pray for us”.

Bible Reflections I 30.01.2022 - Sunday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 4

Readings 

           I - Jer. 1: 4-5, 17-19

          II - 1Cor. 12: 31-13:13

         III - Lk.4:21-30

                      

ACCEPT ALL AND REJECT NONE

In the Gospel according to St. John we read, “He came to that which was his own, but his own did not receive him” (Jn. 1:11). Today’s Gospel passage is about suspicion and reluctance of people in accepting Jesus as the promised one - the chosen race trying to reject their own Messiah from their point of view. It was because he was merely a carpenter’s son. Jesus concludes quoting the two incidents: one, Prophet Elijah was sent to the widow in Zarephath and two, the healing of Naaman by Prophet Elisha, saying, “no prophet is acceptable in his home town”.  

Truth is beyond human mindset, computation and calculation. Only a broad mind and an open heart are prone to behold the truth without much criticism. We too like those people of Israel try to avoid and eliminate people in the name of family background, caste, creed, power, prestige, popularity and fame. As we have heard in the first reading God knows, consecrates and appoints everyone even before we were born, then, who are we to reject anyone on account of anything from their background? If we are habituated in analysing all these we will be missing the messiah as he comes to meet us every day and in every event. Go beyond to accept all without any prejudice. This is possible only to those who can love all as we heard in the second reading. Because in love there is no prejudice or boastfulness. Let us in a special way pray to the Lord to fill our hearts with love so that it might be possible to accept others without any prejudice and criticism. May our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “Lord Jesus, fill my heart with your love”.

Bible Reflections I 29.01.2022 - Saturday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 3

Readings 

           I - 2Sam. 12: 1-7, 10-17

          II - Mk. 4: 35-41

 GOD CARES FOR ME

Today’s Gospel passage is about Jesus calming the sea. With great windstorm and breaking waves, the disciples were terrified and would’ve definitely felt helpless and drowning in spirit. The chaos in the sea confused the disciples, shattering their faith and trust in Jesus, in spite of witnessing all wonderful and miraculous acts performed by Him. This is why, to the Lord of Life, they cried out saying, “Teacher do you not care that we are perishing?” because they saw Jesus, sleeping in peace, unperturbed in the boat. 

The Bible says, “Behold, He that keepeth Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep” (Ps. 121: 4). In the presence of Jesus we need not fear. No harm or no evil can torment and destroy us when we are with Jesus. All we need is faith and trust. We had been conducting our life so long and haven’t we witnessed umpteen number of miracles and wonders taking place in our own lives? Still, when the time of test starts, we get bewildered and cry out to God saying, “Lord do you not care that we are perishing?”. Calm down fear, cry to God and witness the power and presence of God. Amazing! May our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “Lord Jesus, I trust you”.

Bible Reflections I 27.01.2022 - Thursday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 3

Readings:  I - 2Sam. 7: 18-19, 24-29

     II - Mk. 4: 21-25

St. Angela Merici, Virgin (Memorial)

   

LET YOUR LIGHT SHINE

In today’s Gospel passage Jesus says that no one lights a lamp and put it under a basket instead put it on the lamp stand so that the place is bright. He also goes on to say that the measure that is given out will be the measure that will be given.  The former marks responsibility and the latter, accountability. We are gifted with various talents and blessings to build up and restore the fallen dignity of humanity due to selfishness, avarice and greediness of some. We as Christians are called to unfurl the banner of equality, freedom and fraternity, keeping aglow our Christian values based on charity.  We are responsible to foster humanity and are accountable too for the gifts bestowed upon us for the purpose of the same.

The Church celebrates the feast of St. Angela Merici who utilized her charism in founding a congregation, Ursuline Sisters, to educated and take care of the children.  United in the Lord, she accomplished all according to the plan of God.  Let us also be united in the Lord, discover our gifts and talents; and utilize the same for the betterment of humankind.  May our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “Lord Jesus, help us to be responsible and accountable Christians with the gifts bestowed upon us”

Bible Reflections I 26.01.2022 - Wednesday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 3

Readings 

           I - 2Tim. 1: 1-8

          II - Lk. 10: 1-9

                       

ST. TIMOTHY AND ST. TITUS (Memorial)

Todat the Church celebrates the feast of St. Timothy and St. Titus, the apostles of St. Paul whose feast we celebrated yesterday.  St. Timothy was bishop of Ephesus and St. Titus, bishop of Crete.  St. Timothy was converted by St. Paul (Acts. 16:3) and was very dear to him like a son to his father (1Tim. 1:2).   St. Titus was with Paul during the vehement council of Jerusalem that put an end to circumcision of the Christians. Timothy served as a messenger of St. Paul to the Corinthians when St. Paul was unable to go there.  Timothy and Titus were with Paul during his three missionary journeys and imbibed his teachings on Christ and Church. Both of these saints were dynamic preachers and protectors of the Church, feared no one but God alone. St. Timothy was dragged on the streets and was stoned to death and St. Titus died of fever.

The life of saints is an inspiration for us to check our lives and march ahead with vigour, enthusiasm and credibility.  We belong to the Church, where the persons of God feared neither tortures nor death for Christ’s sake.  They were convinced about their faith and belief; and dared to live by the same, come what may.  In this light, let us examine our own faith.  Do we have the courage to proclaim through our lives that we belong to Christ and that the way of Christ is our way of life - love? May the saints give us the grace and courage to live up for the Christian faith despite all trouble and problems. Let our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “Lord Jesus, Give me the courage to bear witness to you at all times”.

Bible Reflections I 25.01.2022 - Tuesday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 3

Readings 

           I - Acts. 22: 3-16

          II - Mk. 16: 15-18

                       

CONVERSION OF ST. PAUL (Feast)

Today the Church celebrates the feast of conversion of St. Paul, a giant of Christianity and the pillar of the Church.  Paul before his conversion was Saul, a Jew, born in Tarsus, Cilicia belonging to the tribe of Benjamin. He was Roman citizen by birth.  He was educated under Gamaliel, the great Rabi of the time.  He was fluent in both Greek and Hebrew languages.  He learnt the Jewish law thoroughly.  He was loyal to the law and Zealous for the traditions of his ancestors (Gal. 1:14) and so he persecuted the Christians.  On his way to Damascus as given in the first reading, had a supernatural experience that made Paul a passionate proclaimer and convinced believer of Christ Jesus, our Lord.  Paul after his conversion undertook three missionary expeditions in the Eastern Mediterranean region. He had written thirteen epistles to build and strengthen the life of faith of the Christians.  

He took delight in calling himself as an apostle of Jesus.  As perfect apostle of Jesus, he bore a perfect witness to the Gospel passage of the day.  He proclaimed vehemently about Christ not only in words but also in deeds, this is why he was able to say, “Imitate me, just as I imitate Christ” (1Cor. 11:1).  He was not harmed by the viper that rounded his hand (Acts. 28: 3); he spoke in tongues (1Cor 14:18) and he did cast out demons (Acts. 16:18).  This is credible Christian living.  Let us too like St. Paul bear witness to the Lord by actualising his words in our lives.  May our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “Lord Jesus, give me the grace to live a credible witnessing life of Christian" as we strive with prayer for our own personal conversion.

Bible Reflections I 24.01.2022 - Monday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 3

Readings 

           I - 2Sam. 5: 1-7, 10

          II - Mk. 3: 22-30

St. Francis De Sales, Bishop, Doctor (Memorial)

         

BE WHO YOU ARE AND BE THAT WELL

Today the Church celebrates the feast of St. Francis De Sales.  He is one of the patron saint of our Salesian Institute.  The model from whom Don Bosco imbibed his spirituality.  St. Francis de Sales was: A priest who courageously followed God’s way - the way of perfect charity; A daring bishop who organised diocesan synods, reorganized administrative structures and initiated the practice of parish visitations; A dynamic founder of the congregation of Visitation sisters along with St. Jane de Chantal; A prolific writer, ardent spiritual director who had written over 10,000 letters of spiritual direction; Doctor of the Church and a legend, still a meek and gentle saint.  His life love and gentleness was a model of spirituality to many legendary saints.  His way of life like honey to the flies attracted the lives of many.  

In today’s Gospel passage, Jesus is blamed of driving out the demon with the help of Beelzebul. Jesus called them to himself and spoke to them in a parable saying thay there can never be a devil against another devil and pointed the mistake in their accusation and went on doing the good.  St. Francis De sales says: “Be who you are and be that well”. Let us like Jesus and all the saints modeled after  Jesus, live well with conviction and in the path of sanctity so that we need to fear on one but walk bravely accomplishing the will of God in our lives.  May St. Francis De Sales intercede for us as we keep repeating this prayer as often as possible: “St. Francis De Sales; Pray for us”.

Bible Reflections I 23.01.2022 - Sunday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 3

Readings 

           I - Neh. 8: 2-6, 8-10

          II - 1Cor. 12: 12-30

         III - Lk. 1: 1-4; 4: 14-21

MISSION IN MINIATURE

The Gospel according to St. Luke is addressed to every one of the ‘lover of God’.  St. Luke, the author in the Gospel passage of the day, says that all that he had accounted in this Gospel is from his personal experience with Jesus, eye witnesses and after careful investigation of everything from the very first; and that his Gospel passage is concerned about the Truth - Jesus himself. In the Gospel passage we also read about the fulfillment of the Prophesy of Prophet Isiah that contained the entire ministry and the mission of Jesus: to seek and save; and to gather and gain people for God.

As Christians we are baptised for two reasons: one, to belong to Jesus in faith as children of God and two, to partake in the mission of Jesus viz. proclaiming, healing, curing and saving.  Proclaiming not merely in words but with our life as did Jesus, all in love and for love.  Healing and curing the world in fraternity with understanding, patience, forbearance, charity, humility, meekness, respect, loyalty and forgiveness.  Saving the world and people from various clutches that bind them viz. addictions, domination, ignorance, poverty and selfishness.  If we dare to accomplish all these, then can we call ourselves as Children of God and that we belong to Jesus. May our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “Lord Jesus, give me the courage and lead me to walk in your way”.

Bible Reflections I 22.01.2022 - Saturday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 2

Readings 

           I - 2 Sam. 1: 1-4, 11-12, 19, 23-27

          II - Mk. 3: 20-21

              

DO GOOD AGAINST ALL ODDS

The Gospel passage of the day is just two verses with two points: one, Jesus was so busy about God’s work and accomplishing all good for the people that Jesus and his disciples did not even find time to have their food; and two, Jesus’ family, hearing the criticism that he has gone insane goes back to bring him back home.  

Criticisms are common and remarks are irresistible.  All good words spoken and noble deeds done could be misinterpreted and misrepresented.  Do not lose heart and get discouraged.  With Jesus as model, go on and forge ahead accomplishing all good untiringly, with great courage because the reward would be great in heaven.  May our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “Lord Jesus, make me like you”.

Bible Reflections I 21.01.2022 - Friday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 2

Readings 

           I - 1Sam. 24: 3-21

          II - Mk. 3: 13-19

St. Agnes, Virgin, Martyr (Memorial)

               

REMAIN IN JESUS

Out of so many that followed, Jesus specifically chose the twelve whom he also called ‘Apostles’ for two purposes: one, to be with him and two, to be sent out on his mission of proclaiming and healing.  He chose whomever he wanted and the composition consisted of fishermen, the zealots, tax collector, traitor and people belonging to ordinary walk of life.  These twelve but Judas, took the Gospel far and wide across the world, even at the cost of their lives for the spirit and the power of the Lord was with them.  

We are chosen to be the apostles of Jesus through our Baptism.  We might be weak and fragile but we are God’s choice.  The spirit and the power of the Lord will rest upon us and lead us to be daring witnesses of the Gospel if only we trust him and remain with him in faith and prayer for Jesus says, “If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing” (Jh. 15: 5). 

Today the Church celebrates the feast of St. Agnes, who died as a martyr at the age of twelve.  She desired very much to belong to Jesus and Jesus alone and therefore she refused to marry the son of the Governor and therefore she was killed.  May the saint intercede for us to live up to our Christian vocation as credible follower so Christ, our Lord. Let our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “Lord Jesus, help me to abide in you”.

Bible Reflections I 20.01.2022 - Thursday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 2

Readings 

           I - 1Sam. 18: 6-9; 19: 1-7

          II - Mk. 3: 7-12

        

JUST MOVE ON…

In the Gospel passage of the day, we read that a great multitude from Galilee followed Jesus and in great numbers from Judea, Jerusalem, Idumea, beyond the region of Jordan, Tyre and Sidon gathered round him to listen to him and to be healed from their sin, sorrow and sickness. The passage evince that Jesus was a trending rabbi or a prophet of that time, gaining popularity and fame among the people. Never in the Gospel, ever could we read that Jesus took delight gleaming in such glory, but always slipped from the crowd focusing his attention on His mission: the salvation of the world. 

Most of the people are addicted to appreciation, fame, praises and glory, and are ready to do anything to attain the same. This deviates from the purpose of our life and existence that God has intended for us. This is in a way, a temptation that takes us away from the way of the Lord. Jesus is our Master and Model: do all good only for the glory of God and just move on, ignoring all personal glory and gain. May our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “Lord, lead us not into the temptation of vain glory and false pride”.

Bible Reflections I 19.01.2022 - Wednesday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 2

Readings 

           I - 1Sam. 17: 32-33, 37, 40-51

          II - Mk. 3: 1-6

HAVE THE MIND AND HEART OF JESUS

Today’s Gospel passage is about Jesus healing the man with withered hand on a Sabbath.  The Gospel passage projects two types of attitudes: one, the attitude of the Pharisees and the attitude of Jesus.  The Pharisees accused Jesus of his healing on the Sabbath and conspired with the Herodians against him.  Jesus had pity on the withered man but grieved at the hardness of heart of the Pharisees.  Jesus forged ahead in doing good, ignoring the criticism and accusations of the Pharisees and the Scribes.  This in deed need a lot of courage and conviction in doing good against all odds that arise against.

There are two takeaways from this passage:  One, to abstain from criticizing those who are doing good; and two to go on doing good like Jesus despite all accusations.  Nothing is lost by encouraging others but it needs a great heart. Encouraging others is the hallmark of our magnanimity and nobility. Even if ego prevents from encouraging, at least allow the good to be accomplished for the greater glory of God. 

Do not loose heart and be discouraged at the criticism of others.  For the good cause, the Lord himself will be with us as support, shield and strength. Imbibe the attitude of Jesus in accomplishing all that is good to others and only by this can we prove that we are Christians after the mind and heart of Jesus.  May our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “Lord Jesus, make me like you”.

Bible Reflections I 18.01.2022 - Tuesday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 2

Readings 

           I - 1Sam. 16: 1-13

          II - Mk. 2: 23-28

SABBATH IS FOR HUMANKIND AND NOT HUMANKIND FOR SABBATH

Sabbath is a day of rest and the day of the Lord.  A day of nominal work so as to spend substantial time with the Lord in prayer.  But the people of Israel emphasised more on what ‘should not be done’ on Sabbath in the work context.  Jesus makes two pints clear through the Gospel passage of the day: one, Sabbath was made for humankind and not humankind for Sabbath; and two, the Son of Man, Jesus is the Lord even of Sabbath.  Any law, rule or regulation should foster, protect and promote ‘the culture of life’ and no law can violate the ‘right to life’. Thus the act of the apostles was justified quoting the incident of David from the Old Testament who broke the law of eating the bread left at the presence of the Lord, to be eaten only by the priests as he was hungry.  Secondly, the apostles were indeed spending their time with the Lord of the Sabbath, Jesus, the Messiah.

Today, we set apart time for enjoying, eating and merry making during Sunday, a day dedicated to the Lord.  Nothing wrong in resting and relaxing but besides the obligatory mass, set some time too aside to spend as family in prayer and remain blessed and pleasing people of God.  Some because of various reasons, work ‘Over Time’ to earn an additional income.  True, still, happiness and blessings come with prayer therefore sacrificing time for God, will double the blessings and graces. Stay connected with the Lord and remain blessed. May our mind and heart resonate with the Prayer: “Lord, we need your blessings”.

Bible Reflections I 17.01.2022 - Monday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 2

Readings 

           I - 1Sam. 15: 16-23

          II - Mk. 2: 18-22

St. Anthony, Abbot (Memorial)

                       

LISTEN, DISCERN AND LIVE 

There is time for everything. Time for fasting and time for feasting; time to rejoice and time to mourn; and time to work and time to pray.  We cannot mess up and miss the meaningful living.  It is not fitting to mourn at the celebration and rejoice at the funeral. In today’s Gospel passage, the people accuses the disciples of Jesus for not fasting like the disciples of John the Baptist and the disciples of the Pharisees. Jesus defends his disciples and justifies them saying that they need not fast as long as the bridegroom was with them; for Jesus, the Son of God and the Promised One was with them.  

We have to catch up to the time and conduct our lives suiting to the same.   We have to make our life relevant and befitting by discerning the signs of the time rightly otherwise our lives will be life like new wine in the old wineskin where both will be getting spoiled.  Listen the signs of the times; discern right in the light of faith and live a relevant and meaningful life.

The Church today remembers St. Anthony, the abbot and a man of God.  He was ascetic and lived a life of solitude. He has said, “A time is coming when men will go mad, and when see someone who is not mad, they will attack him, saying, ‘you are not mad; you are not like us”.  We need not follow the world order but pray through the intercession of this saint to make our living a relevant one in the light of the ways of God marked by love.  May our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “Lord Jesus, Lead us to the truth”

Bible Reflections I 16.01.2022 - Sunday i Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 2

Readings 

           I - Is. 62: 1-5

          II - 1 Cor. 12: 4-11

         III - Jn. 2: 1-11

                        

THE POWER OF GOD TRANSFORMS

The change that God brings about in every person and everything is always for the best.  The first reading is about God transforming the status of Israel symbolically by changing its name.  From ‘Desolate’ and ‘forsaken’ to ‘My Delight is in her’ transforming her status to a crown of beauty and a royal diadem in the hands of the Lord.  The Gospel reading is about the miracle of the Wedding Feast Cana where Jesus changes six jars of water into tasty wine that has ever been served. The power of God has the capacity to change, transform and in short make all things anew.  

The second reading is about varieties of gifts, services and activities.  Each of us are gifted uniquely for a purpose.  “All these are activated by one and the same Spirit, who allots to each one individually just as the Spirit chooses (1Cor. 12:11)”.  But have we ever discovered the gift that God has bestowed upon us? Do we utilise it for the purpose that God intends?  Surrender to the Lord and invoke his power to transform us into that type of person that God intends so that we may become a royal diadem and crown of beauty in the hands of God with the name: ‘My Delight is in him/her’ and a new wine of cheer, joy, happiness, peace, comfort and consolation to whomever we come in contact with.  May our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “Lord Jesus I surrender myself to you”.

Bible Reflections I 15.01.2022 - Saturday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 1

Readings 

           I - 1Sam. 9: 1-4, 17-19, 10:1

          II - Mk. 2: 13-17

        

 WE ARE PRECIOUS TO GOD

Today’s Gospel passage is about the call of Levi, the tax collector.  The tax collectors were considered as sinners because they collected more than that was levied and since the tax collectors worked for the Romans they were also considered as traitors.  To such a man, Jesus extends his loving call saying, “Follow me” and went to his house to dine with him.  The Scribes of the Pharisees criticised this act of Jesus; and to them Jesus responded saying, “Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick.  I came not to call the righteous, but sinners”. 

We precious in God’s sight, honoured and loved so much (Is. 43:4).  His benevolent love for us sans our sinfulness and unworthiness, highlighting the image of God imprinted in us.  Often times people are discouraged with their sinful living and guilt feeling; and to such people this passage is an encouraging and consoling invitation to come back to the Lord.  Let no fear barricade us from approaching God, instead trust in the mercy of God and forge ahead to approach Him and His loving hands in deed would lift us up conquering all that is not of God. May our mind and heart resonate with the prayer, "Thank you Jesus"

Bible Reflections I 14.01.2022 - Friday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 1

Readings 

           I - Sam. 8: 4-7, 10-22

          II - Mk. 2: 1-12

                      

IN FAITH AND PERSEVERANCE WAIT FOR GOD 

Today we shall base our reflection on the four men who carried the paralysed man in bed to Jesus, to be cured.  The faith and perseverance of the four men made the miracle possible for the paralysed person they carried.  Their faith that Jesus could heal him and their perseverance in finding the way by climbing the roof top, removing the tiles and letting the paralysed to reach Jesus surrounded by the crowd.  The Bible is silent about who these four men were. Whoever they might be but their act of faith and perseverance brought healing the paralysed man.  May the Gospel passage inspire us to be ardent, persevering and praying in faith for the miracles in the life of self and that of the other.  May our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: "Lord Jesus, fill me with your grace to persevere in faith"

Bible Reflections I 13.01.2022 - Thursday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 1

Readings 

           I - Sam. 4: 1-11

          II - Mk. 1: 40-45

        

 WAIT FOR GOD WITH FAITH AND COURAGE 

Lepers in Israel were considered as sinners, unclean and untouchables.  They usually live in ‘colonies’ and never entered the residential area of the common people.  If they happened to enter the city or town, they were supposed to ring the bell caution others saying ‘unclean, unclean’.  The leper in the Gospel passage of the day picks up courage and dares to enter the crowd that followed Jesus and pleads him for his cleansing from the disease.  The courage of the leper and his faith in Jesus brings healing to the leper.  

Often times we give up courage on calling for God in prayer.  Our sinfulness, worries, troubles, discouragement, fear and anxieties might weigh us down making our faith fragile in approaching the mercy and the power the Lord. But, like the leper in the Gospel focus the attention only on God and courageously approach Him in prayer and with faith; and all things would become possible in and with Him.  May our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “Lord Jesus, fill us with courage and faith”.

Bible Reflections I 12.01.2022 - Wednesday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 1

Readings 

           I - Sam. 3: 1-10, 19-20

          II - Mk. 1: 29-30

        

BECOME THE BELOVED OF GOD

The Gospel passage of the day is characterised by three parts: Healing, praying and preaching.  The first part is about Jesus, healing Peter’s mother-in-law and those who were sick and possessed with demons.  In the second part, Jesus gets up early in the morning while it was still dark, Jesus went to a deserted place to pray, that is to converse with his Father.  In the third part, Jesus proceeds to the neighbouring towns to proclaim the Good News about the Kingdom of God, shunning the popularity that he had gained there by healing and curing many sick people. From this passage it is evident that, for Jesus, prayer was the integrating force of his life of healing and preaching. Prayer enabled him to conduct his life effectively as planned by God for him. And this is why he was the beloved Son of the Father in whom He was pleased.

To live our lives according to the plan set by God for us is purpose filled living.  It is in this kind of living that God is very much pleased with and it is in this way do we become the beloved of God like Jesus His Son.  Prayer is not mere multiplicity of words as Jesus would say (Mt. 6:7) but a loving colloquy and an effecting encounter with God that pervades our thoughts, words and our entire being, resulting in personal and societal transformation. In this way we too for sure can become the “Beloved” of the Father in Heaven. May our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “Lord Jesus, let my prayer life effect my personal life”

Bible Reflections I 11.01.2022 - Tuesday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 1

Readings 

           I - Sam. 1: 2-20 

          II - Mk. 1: 21-28

                        

THE WORD OF GOD IS POWER

The people in the synagogue were astonished at the teachings of Jesus because he spoke with authority.  The unclean spirit was terrified that Jesus might destroy them, and Jesus in deed did cast it out with a command to the amazement of the crowd.  In the Gospel of St. John we read, “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God” (Jh. 1:1); Jesus was the Word made flesh, came to live among us.  The Words he spoke were representation of himself therefore he spoke with authority and had command and control over all things on the earth, under the earth and above the earth.  The Gospel passages evinces to the power of the Word of God.  

In the Gospel of St. John we read, “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not overcome it” (Jn. 1: 5).  The light of the Word of God has the power to dispel all darkness of our lives: sin, sickness, helplessness and  misfortunes. The Word of God has indeed touched and transformed the lives of many.  During family prayers and as individuals try to read the Word of God aloud and in silence and make them your own.  In times of trials, difficulty, pain, sorrow, joy, happiness and at all times keep repeating the Word of God that gives strengthen, support and aid; and discover the miracles taking place in your own lives, all for the glory of God.  In the silence of heart and mind keep repeating: “Lord Jesus, may we be filled with the power of your Words”.

Bible Reflections I 10.01.2022 - Monday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 1

Readings 

           I - Sam. 1: 1-8 

          II - Mk. 1: 14-20

        

I AM GOD’S CHOICE

Yesterday the Church celebrated the Feast of the Baptism of the Lord and with this starts the public ministry of Jesus.  The Christmas Season has ended and we are in the ordinary time of the liturgical season.  In today’s Gospel passage, we read John the Baptist being arrested and that Jesus begins his mission of preaching, teaching and proclaiming about the Kingdom of God.  He did not intend to do all by himself, a one man show, but wanted to include a core group for coordinating with him in committing towards the cause of this great mission.  Therefore, Jesus begins to select the members to be his disciples, precisely to be with him and to be sent out to work like him.  So he gives his invitation to Simon and Andrew while were casting a net into the sea; and James and John, the sons of Zebedee while they were mending their nets.  All the four immediately left all things and followed Jesus.  

Jesus has selected each one of us as partakers in his mission through our Baptism.  Do we recognise this precious and challenging call in our ordinary walk of life or do we live according to the standards set by this world?  How privileged must have been to be His choice.  God with great trust has made us to be His choice, strive to live for the Lord solely for His love and trust in effecting the Kingdom of God through our lives by fostering freedom, fraternity and justice wherever we are.  Throughout the day keep repeating this prayer in the silence of hears: “Lord Jesus, Thank you for choosing me to be your disciple”.

Bible Reflections I 09.01.2022 - Sunday I Indraya Manna I

Christmas Season ends

Readings 

           I - Is. 40: 1-5, 9-11 

          II - Titus. 2: 11-14; 3: 4-7

         III - Lk. 3: 15-16, 21-22

BAPTISM OF THE LORD (Feast)

Today the Church celebrates the feast the Baptism of the Lord, the initiation of Jesus into the great mission he had come to accomplish.  As John the Baptist was clarifying the doubts of the people saying that Messiah is mightier than him that he was worthy to untie the strap of his sandals. Jesus would have probably heard this, still made no big show of it but humbled himself at the hand of the Baptiser to be baptised like one among those around.  As he was praying, a voice came from heaven saying, “You are my beloved Son; with you I am well pleased”.  The concern of Jesus was to accomplish the will of the Father.  The fulfillment of the Prophesy of Isaiah, the promises of God, is to be accomplished in Jesus. From Jerusalem till Calvary, Jesus was ardent in carrying out the will of His Father. In Jerusalem, to his anxious parents he responded saying: “Why did you seek me? Did you not know that I must be about my Father’s work?” (Lk. 2:49).  At the Garden of Olives, he prayed, “My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will” (Mt. 26: 39). And finally, on the cross he said, “It is finished” (Jn. 19: 30) and commended His Spirit to the Father saying, “Father, into your hands I commit my spirit” (Lk. 23: 46).  In all his praying, preaching, teaching, healing, curing, forgiving, befriending and raising Jesus sought the will of His Father and its evident from his response to the disciples, “My food is to do the will of my father” (Jn. 4:16).  In short, the life Jesus and the will of his Father was one and the same, this is why the Father says, “beloved Son” will whom He is well pleased.

Wanna become the beloved of God? Do everything according to the will of the Father in heaven.  Seek Him in prayer and He will certainly enlighten us on what He expects of us to say and do.  Make prayer a way of life, not merely a monologue but let God to speak and be disposed to listen. This is the only way that our Lord has left us to become the beloved of God here on the earth and in the life eternal, “Not everyone who says to me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter into the Kingdom of Heaven; but he who does the will of my Father who is in heaven" (Mt. 7: 21).  Let our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “Father teach me to listen, discern and accomplish your will in my daily life”.

Bible Reflections I 08.01.2022- Saturday I Indraya Manna I

Saturday after Epiphany

Readings 

           I - 1Jn. 5: 4-21 

          II - Jn. 3: 22-30

HE MUST INCREASE, BUT I MUST DECREASE

John the Baptist’s disciples and a Jew went to John the Baptist and complained about Jesus: the one who was with him, whom John the Baptist baptised and testified to him was baptizing and that the people were all flocking to him.  The natural feeling to this complaint, humanly speaking could probably be jealousy, hatred and repugnance.  But John the Baptist highlighted Jesus with the metaphor that the friend of the bridegroom rejoices at the coming of the bridegroom describing himself as the friend of the bridegroom and said the famous statement: “He must increase, but I must decrease”. An attitude of humility, meekness, acceptance of the reality and the clarity of his mission as the forerunner of Christ. 

The knowledge of oneself suppresses the domination of ego and helps to acknowledge and accept the reality.  This will also broaden our mind and heart, making us magnanimous in recognising, accepting, encouraging and appreciating others as they are without any prejudice, grudge, hatred and suspicion.  We are children of God and can never be rivals to one another.  May this Gospel reading of the day enlighten us and enlarge our horizon to imbibe the attitude of John the Baptist: “He must increase, but I must decrease”.  Let our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “Lord Jesus, bless us with the attitude of John the Baptist, ‘He must increase, but I must decrease'”.

Bible Reflections I 07.01.2022 - Friday I Indraya Manna I

Friday after Epiphany

Readings 

           I - 1Jn. 5: 5-13 

          II - Lk. 5: 12-16

                

ALL FOR THE GLORY OF GOD

Jesus manifested the power of God and strove for the glory of God.  The choice of Jesus was always for the good of the person and the glorification of the Father.  In today’s Gospel passage, the man covered with leprosy says, “Lord if you choose, you can make me clean”.  Jesus responds to this humble pleading saying: “I do choose.  Be made clean”.  Through his healing Jesus does not take the glory for himself but reminds the healed person of what Moses had commanded: to make an offering for the cleansing, thereby persuading the healed to fix his focus on God with a gratefulness and thanksgiving.  Jesus preached, taught, healed and accomplished all the good he can wherever he went but was always concerned not about his glory but that of the glory of God.

We are in the world of vanity that parades its pride in vain glory and in seeking cheap popularity.  For a mite of good done, mighty publicity is sought after.  We are prone to seek after personal gain, name and fame in every one of our little deeds of kindness and love.  May this Gospel passage enlighten us to aspire for the greater glory of God in every one of our word and deed.  Let this thought resound in our hearts and minds as we are into another day of God’s mercy and kindness: “All for the glory of God and only for the glory of God”.

Bible Reflections I 06.01.2022 - Thursday I Indraya Manna I

Thursday after Epiphany

Readings 

           I - 1Jn. 4: 19-5:4 

          II - Lk. 4: 14-22

               

THY WILL BE DONE

The Gospel passage is about the manifesto of Jesus.  Filled with the power of the Holy Spirit, Jesus reads out the Prophesy of Prophet Isaiah that was fulfilled in him: “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor.  He has sent me to proclaim liberty to those who are oppressed, to proclaim the recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty those who are oppressed, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favour”.  Jesus had the clarity of the vision of his mission.  This was because he was constantly in connect with his Father and therefore was solely concerned about the purpose of the salvation of humankind.

Each of us are marvelous masterpiece of God and God has meticulous planning for each of us: the purpose of our existence here on earth.  Like Jesus, only if we are in constant connect with the Father Almighty, can we discover the purpose of our life.  We cannot have an ‘any how’ living.  Our lives become meaningful only when we conduct our life according to the will of God for us.  This might hinder or even shatter our own dreams, desires, hopes and aspirations still, when we allow God’s plan to take over our lives, we will have the joy of purposeful living come what may.  May our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “Let your will be done O Lord”.

Bible Reflections I 05.01.2022 - Wednesday I Indraya Manna I

Wednesday after Epiphany

Readings 

           I - 1Jn. 4: 11-18 

          II - Mk. 6: 45-52

GOD IS CONCERNED ABOUT US

The Gospel passage of the day is about Jesus coming to the rescue of his disciples.  Jesus sends away his disciples ahead of him to the other side in a boat and he goes on the mountain to pray.  The disciples were in the boat on the sea and Jesus, on the land praying.  Near or far the thoughts would automatically attend the loved ones. Jesus sees the difficulty of his disciples in rowing the ores against the course wind and immediately comes to them waling on the water.  In fear and trembling, the disciples mistakes Jesus for a ghost because no human can walk on water and that the Israelites believe in the existence of ghost in the sea.  They failed to realise that it must definitely be possible for the one who multiplied the loaves to walk on the water as well.  They witnessed the blind, see, lame walk, dead rising and winds obeying his command, still could not grasp that Jesus could walk on the water.

The passage invites us to reflect on two angles: one, Jesus comes to our rescue in all our trials, difficulties and suffering; and two, we fail to think of him or cease to recognise him as he comes to help us. We would have experienced his love and concern for us in so many of our difficulties, pain and suffering but when the moment comes, we tend to alienate God from the scene altogether out of sheer negligence or forgetfulness or over confidence in oneself.  May no trials and difficulties blind our eyes and numb our hearts to discover the Lord present with us more closer at those circumstances. Our God is great and do not forget that he is concerned about us. Surrender to his all worries and he would as the bible says, for sure would wipe away every tear from our eyes.  May our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “Thank you Lord for your love and care towards me”.

Bible Reflections I 04.01.2022 - Tuesday I Indraya Manna I

Tuesday after Epiphany

Readings 

           I - 1 Jn. 4: 7-10 

          II - Mk. 6: 34-44

 DARE TO SHARE

The Gospel passage of the day is about the multiplication of the loaves.  The compassionate heart of Jesus and the contribution from the crowd made the miracle of the multiplication a possible one.  Jesus blessed the mite, the seven loaves and the fish, and fed the multitude that was hungry, taking back twelve baskets of broken pieces and of fish as remnant. Compassion and contribution is possible only to those who have love for his/her fellow being.  

In the compassionate heart of Jesus, as St. John says in the first reading, the loving heart of the father was revealed to the hungry crowd.  We are blessed with various gifts and talents not only for the personal well being but also for uplifting our suffering humanity.  If we are Christians, it is our prime responsibility to imitate our Master Lord Jesus Christ in loving others in serving our brethren. In short, to be modeled after the heart of Jesus.  Dare to share even the mite entrusting that into the loving hands of the Lord and discover a miracle being worked out.  In the silence of the mind and heart keep repeating the prayer: “Lord Jesus, fill me with your love”.

Bible Reflections I 03.02.2022 - Monday I Indraya Manna I

Monday after Epiphany

Readings 

           I - 1Jn. 3: 22-4:6

          II - Mt. 4: 12-17, 23-25

        

HOLY NAME OF JESUS

                  

Today the Church celebrates the feast of the holy name of Jesus.  Jesus is a most common name in Israel but what is uncommon is that the person to whom this name belong to: the Son of God, the Promised One who came to redeem the world.  The holy name of Jesus is healing, consoling, comforting, soothing, liberating, encouraging and uplifting.  The utterance of the very name of Jesus is by itself a most powerful prayer.  The name of Jesus is our salvation: “Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved” (Acts: 11:12). It is a promise: “Promise and whatever any of you ask in my name, I will do” (Jn. 14:13).  It is an assurance to be with his people: “where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them” (Mt. 18: 20).  The name of Jesus is our justification: “You were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God” (1 Cor. 6: 11). The name of Jesus saves: “whoever calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved” (Rom. 10:13).

 The Catechism of the Catholic Church says, “to pray "Jesus" is to invoke him and to call him within us” (C.C.C. 2666).  Many of the saints including Don Bosco has prayed, “In the name of Jesus”.  This is of course a short and simple prayer but most effective, miraculous and powerful prayer.  Today in particular let us pray more frequently, “In the name of Jesus” and into his holy name entrust all our fears, anxieties, helplessness, worries, ailments, inabilities, failures, burdens and problems with the faith and hope in the one who had redeemed us at the cost of his most cruel death on the cross out of His all love for us.  May the name of Jesus be glorified and revered.

Bible Reflections I 02.01.2022 - Sunday I Indraya Manna I

Readings 

           I - Is. 60: 1-6

          II - Eph. 3: 2-3a, 5-6

         III - Mt. 2: 1-12

EPIPHANY OF THE LORD (Solemnity)

                  

Today we celebrate the feast of the epiphany of the Lord: the three wise men beholding the messiah in their wisdom and God’s grace. The 3Ds of wisdom: Discovers the truth, Distinguishes the real and Discerns right. The three wise men in their wisdom at the rising of the star in the east they discovered the Truth - the babe was Son of God Himself. To mark His divinity they offered incense. They were able to distinguish the real even when it was not convincing. In the helpless babe laid in the manger, born of a parents from a simple and humble background that could hardly reveal his royalty, they distinguished his real identity: the King of kings and therefore to mark his sovereignty, they offered Gold to the Son of man. In the baby boy, besides discovering his divinity and royalty, they also found the innocent Lamb of God and hence they offered myrrh to mark his suffering and sorrows on account of human salvation. 

Wisdom discovers, distinguishes and discerns. We need wisdom to discover God in all things, distinguish the real from the unreal and to discern right choices that align with the will of God. As we celebrate the feast of Epiphany, ask God to bless us with the Spirit of wisdom so that we may discover God in all things, persons and events of life befitting to our identity as children of God. May our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “Lord Jesus, fill us with the Spirit of wisdom”.