Bible Reflections I 01.02.2023 - WEDNESDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time - Week 4

Readings 

           I - Heb. 12: 4-7. 11-15

          II - Mk. 6: 1-6

                  

BE OPEN TO THE TRUTH

Today’s Gospel passage is about the rejection of Jesus in his hometown. Prejudice prevented the people of Nazareth from accepting the wisdom of Jesus and his deeds of divine power. A deliberate rejection just because Jesus was a carpenter’s son and Mary, his mother was a simple and insignificant woman of Nazareth who did not have a great or a renowned background. Therefore the people willfully refused to reckon to the truth. Their prejudice and pride prevented them from being open to the truth and finally they were the losers because of their disbelief Jesus could not do any mighty work there.  

Prejudice pollutes, pride prevents, anger avenges, jealousy jeopardises from accepting and rejoicing at the talents, goodness and the gifts of the other. We may tend to evaluate the background and eliminate, analyse the status and avoid, mount with criticism and marginalise and in the end hunt for reasons to reject and discard people. In this bargain we become the losers like those people of Nazareth who willfully missed Jesus, the Messiah for whom they so long waited. We have to go beyond our likes and dislikes to behold the persons as they are and to savour the blessings that each one bring with them. Have courage to surpass all stereo typed settings in our mind and with a magnanimity of mind and heart accept the persons as they are and all for the glory of God. Keep repeating this prayer as often as possible in the silence of heart praying: “Lord Jesus, give me the courage to accept the truth.”

Bible Reflections I 31.01.2023 - TUESDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time - Week 4

Readings 

           I - Heb. 12: 1-4

          II - Mk. 5: 21-43

                               

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”.  

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. Because of faith, one was restored back to health and the other, Jairus daughter was raised to life. 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. Don Bosco was a man of faith and so he was able to work and witness many miracles for the glory of the Lord. May saint help us to stand steadfast in faith as we invoke his intercession praying, “Saint Don Bosco, Pray for us.”

Bible Reflections I 30.01.2023 - MONDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time - Week 4

Readings 

           I - Heb. 11: 32-40

          II - Mk. 5: 1-20

                           

JESUS IS MERCIFUL

In today’s Gospel passage Jesus casts the legion into the pigs and liberates the man from the legion. The man whom Jesus chased the legion, dwelt day and night among the tombs, on the mountains he was always crying and hurting himself with the stones, in short he was tortured and troubled by the possession. Jesus casted the legion and cured the man from its possession. The man desired to be with Jesus wherever he went but Jesus sent him back home and told him to proclaim the mercy of the Lord. The people of the city were not so happy because the cared much for the pigs than for the man who was cured. They pleaded Jesus to depart from their city. 

We can from the Gospel passage of the day, draw two lessons for our life: one, Jesus is merciful and ha is powerful to deliver us from all our sufferings and setbacks as he did with the possessed man; and two, sometimes we are used to our sinful style of living that we don’t wish to be delivered from the same as did the people of the city who wanted Jesus to get away from their city. Today the church remember St. Bathilde, wife of Clovis II, king of France. She was a slave in the service of wife of Erchinoald, mayor of the palace of Neustria. Bathilde astounded the mayor so much with her unusual qualities and virtues that he desired to marry her after the death of her wife. Bathilde fled from him and returned back after he got married. King Clovis II met her in the mayor’s palace and impressed by her grace and virtue, freed her and got her married. She was thus raised from a slave to the status of queen. With the elevation her virtues did not diminish rather gave them a new lustre. God has the power to do anything, we only need to have faith in him and trust in his mercy.

Bible Reflections I 29.01.2023 - SUNDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time: Week 4

Readings

       I - Zeph. 2: 3; 3: 12-13

            II - 1 Cor. 1: 26-31

           III - Mt. 5: 1-12

            

THE BEATTITUDES

The world considers the rich and the well of as ‘blessed’ or ‘happy’ people. In today’s Gospel, Jesus calls those labelled and branded by the world as ‘cursed’, ‘ill-fated’ and a ‘threat’ because they choose to live by high ideals of life, as ‘Blessed’. He encourages and consoles them with the reward that awaits them. With the Sermon on the Mount Jesus sets the parameter for Gospel living, the sufferings on its account and the reward for enduring false accusations and sufferings inflicted on this accord. 

Whenever we are pushed to tight corner because of our choices, dare to choose God again and again and suffer for the same, we may hear in the silence of our hearts God calling us ‘Blessed’ and filling us with His peace and joy; and this is heaven. Heaven is not a place but a state. The world runs after pleasure that is perishable mistaking it to be happiness but as Christians are supposed to strive for Gospel and its values and that is happiness and peace. Start living by the way of the Lord and make the place where you are a heaven.

Bible Reflections I 28.01.2023 - SATURDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time - Week 3

Readings 

           I - Heb. 11: 1-2, 8-19

          II - Mk. 4: 35-41

                           

ST. THOMAS AQUINAS, DOCTOR OF THE CHURCH (Memorial)

Thomas Aquinas was born near Aquino, around the year 1225, was the youngest of at least nine children. He was born of a wealthy family. Thomas began his education at Monte Cassino and because of the conflict between Emperor Frederick II and Pope Gregory IX reached the abbey, he was enrolled in napels for his studies. He met John of St. Julian, a Dominican preacher, who influenced him to join the founded Dominican Order. At the university, Thomas was introduced to his philosophical influences viz. Aristotle, Averroes and Maimonides. Thomas was quiet and seldom spoke at the university, that made other students presume that he was dull headed, but Mangus prophetically said, "You call him the dumb ox, but in his teaching, he will one day produce such a bellowing that it will be heard throughout the world." While teaching at the university, Thomas wrote his most famous work, Summa theologiae (summary of Theology), written in 1266-1273, is a compendium of all the approved teachings of the Catholic Church. It was instructional guide for teachers and novices. During this prayer, Christ is said to have told him, "You have written well of me, Thomas. What reward would you have for your labor?" Thomas replied, "Nothing but you, Lord." Following this apparition, Thomas never wrote or spoke of it. He abandoned his routine. When he was begged to return to work, he replied, "I cannot, because all that I have written seems like straw to me." After receiving his last rites, he prayed, "I receive Thee, ransom of my soul. For love of Thee have I studied and kept vigil, toiled, preached and taught..." He was canonised by Pope John XXII on July 18, 1323. When Pope Pius V declared Saint Thomas a doctor of the church, he said, Thomas was "the most brilliant light of the Church."

In today’s Gospel passage Jesus calms 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 saint of the day is a great example for faith. His great works were after his great faith. When troubles interrupt we tend to waver in faith. May the saint of the day help us stand steadfast in our faith as we invoke him praying: “St. Thomas Aquinas, pray for us.”

Bible Reflections I 27.01.2023 - FRIDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time - Week 3

Readings 

           I - Heb. 10: 32-39

          II - Mk. 4: 26-34

                           

LITTLE IS GREAT

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

A right word, an inspiring act, an understanding gesture, a little thoughtfulness, an attitude of let go, a bit of tolerance, a node of sympathy and a gentle tap of appreciation has the great power to turn the world upside down. Jesus compares faith and the Kingdom of God to a mustard seed. Our little acts with great faith can make our earth a heaven. Strive to contribute thay little towards the dream of Jesus, the Kingdom of God with all faith and trust in him. May our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “Lord make me an instrument of your love, peace and joy.”

Bible Reflections I 26.01.2023 - THURSDAY 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)

The Church celebrates the feast of St. Timothy and St. Titus today, the apostles of St. Paul whose feast we celebrated yesterday. St. Timothy was a bishop of Ephesus and St. Titus was a 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, the Jewish law. Timothy served as a messenger of St. Paul, to the Corinthians when he was unable to go there. They were with Paul during his three missionary journeys and imbibed his teaching on Christ and Church. Both of these saints were vehement preachers and protectors of the Church feared no one but God alone. St. Timothy 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 and credibility. We belong to the Church, where the persons of God feared neither tortures nor death for Christ’s sake. They we 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 us the courage to bear witness to you.”

Bible Reflections I 25.01.2023 - WEDNESDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time - Week 3

Readings 

           I - Acts. 22: 3-16

          II - Mk. 16: 15-18

                       

CONVERSION OF ST. PAUL (Feast)

The Church celebrates the birth or death of people as feast days but only St. Paul’s conversion is celebrated as feast day. 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. Saul hated Jesus for no reason, tortured Christians because he believed that salvation is through the Law. With conversion, Paul was convinced that only faith in Jesus can bring salvation. 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. Paul considered all his advantages as disadvantages in comparison with the supreme value of knowing Christ the Lord (Phil. 3: 8). To love is to suffer. On account of his love for the Lord and his Gospel, Paul endured suffering enough and more even to the point of giving himself up to martyrdom. He was beheaded for his tremendous and undaunted faith in the Lord.  

He took delight in calling himself as an apostle of Jesus. As an 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). As we read in the Gospel passage of the day, St. Paul 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 for our own personal conversion.

Bible Reflections I 24.01.2023 - TUESDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time: Week 3

Readings 

           I - Heb. 9: 15, 24-28

          II - Mk. 3: 22-30

       

ST. FRANCIS DE SALES, BISHOP, DOCTOR (Memorial)

Today the Church celebrates the feast of St. Francis de Sales. He is one of the patron saint of 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; dynamic founder of the congregation of Visitation sisters along with St. Jane de Chantal; He was 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 of 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.  

Today’s Gospel passage is about the mother and brothers of Jesus, trying to meet Jesus. In this Gospel passage, Jesus is not trying to deny relationship but demonstrates a higher level of relationship with God that is built on obedience to his will. Secondly, Jesus affirms his relationship because they were accomplishing the will of God in their lives. St. Francis de sales says: “Be who you are and be that well”. Modelled after the saints, walk with conviction on the path of sanctity accomplishing the will of God in our lives. May St. Francis De Sales intercede for us as we keep praying in the silence of our hearts: “St. Francis De Sales; Pray for us.”

Bible Reflections I 23.01.2023 - MONDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time: Week 3

Readings 

           I - Heb. 9: 15, 24-28

          II - Mt. 3: 22-30

RID OF FALSE ACCUSATIONS 

In today’s Gospel passage Jesus is accused of being possessed by Beelzebul.  Jesus called the Scribes who accused him and spoke to them in a parable saying there can never be one devil against another devil and pointed the mistake in their accusation.  Towards the end of the passage Jesus says that those who blasphemes against the Holy Spirit would never be forgiven. Jesus was full of the Holy Spirit (Lk. 4: 1) while the Scribes willfully ignored the fact in their stubbornness of heart.

We come across so many people who go about quietly doing good irrespective of any name, fame or popularity.  We also come across people who blame, brand, label and accuse these people hurting, hinting and not allowing them to accomplish even the little good that they can.  Such type of people who hinder others from accomplishing God’s will or who put an obstacle for the good activities through blasphemes could never be forgiven by the Holy Spirit. If you can, do some good, if not, remain calm and allow others to go on doing good.  Let our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “Lord Jesus, give me the magnanimous heart to encourage people when they are busy doing good."

Bible Reflections I 22.01.2023 - SUNDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time - Week 3

Readings 

           I - Is. 9: 1-3, 11-14

          II - 1 Cor. 1: 10-13, 17

         III - Mt. 4: 12-23

               

FOLLOW THE LORD

The Gospel passage of the day is the fulfillment of the Prophecy of Isaiah in the first reading. Jesus is the Promised Light to the people of Israel. In the Gospel passage, Jesus calls the people for repentance and conversion; and he also calls his disciple to follow him in order to take the Gospel to all nations and work miracles in his name. Peter, Andrew and the sons of Zebedee followed Jesus instantly when they heard Jesus saying, ‘Follow me” and they in deed followed him to the point of their death in preaching, healing and proclaiming.

In the second reading, St. Paul says that he had been sent to preach the Gospel, the cross of Christ. We have been baptised in Christ for the same purpose: to preach and proclaim in his name, to cure and heal others at his command. This is possible only to the one who is ardent in following. As Christians we are called to preach him through our life, proclaim in our deeds and cure and heal other with our faith. Imbibe the spirit of the Gospel in order to be the effective followers and proclaimers of Christ. Let our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “Lord Jesus, make me a witness of the Gospel”

Bible Reflections I 21.01.2023 - SATURDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time - Week 2

Readings 

           I - Heb. 9: 2-3, 11-14

          II - Mk. 3: 20-21

St. Agnes, Virgin, Martyr (Memorial)

               

GO BUSY DOING GOOD

The Gospel passage of the day is just two verses and from this we can draw two points: one, Jesus was so busy about God’s work and accomplishing all good for the people that he 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 to fetch 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. Today the Church celebrates the feast of St. Agnes, who died as a martyr at the age of twelve. She desired ardently to belong to Jesus and hence she refused to marry the son of the Governor because of this she was killed. May the saint intercede for us to live up to our Christian vocation as credible followers of Christ as we in the silence of our heart invoke her intercession praying: “St. Agnes, Pray for us.”

Bible Reflections I 20.01.2023 - FRIDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time: Week 2

Readings 

           I - Heb. 8: 6-13

          II - Mk. 3: 13-19

                       

WE ARE THE CHOSEN

Today’s Gospel passage is about Jesus choosing the disciples after the desire of his heart. 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). Let our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “Lord Jesus, give us the grace to remain in your love.”

Bible Reflections I 19.01.2023 - THURSDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time: Week 2

Readings 

           I: Heb. 7: 25-8: 6

          II: Mk. 3: 7-12

                                

STICK ON TO THE ESSENTIAL

In the Gospel passage of the day, we read that a great crowd 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 18.01.2023 - WEDNESDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time: Week 2

Readings 

           I: Heb. 7: 1-3, 15-17

          II: Mk. 3: 1-6

                

HUMANNESS IS GODLINESS

Today’s Gospel passage is about Jesus healing a weathered man in the synagogue on a Sabbath day. The Pharisees waited to accuse him if he healed on the Sabbath day. Jesus heals and teaches them the lesson that humanity is supreme above all rules and regulations. Two emotions of Jesus against the reaction of the Pharisees were: anger and grief. He was angry at their attitude and grieved over the hardness of their hearts.  

Whenever rules takes prudence over humanity God gets angry and grieves over the hardness of heart. The people of today are no different from the days of Jesus. We have so many rules, do’s and don’ts for days, times and religious observances. The healing of Jesus invites us to free ourselves from these unnecessary bondages for a happy living that comes in helping our neighbour. Strive to be human and that is the revelation of Godliness in us. Let our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “Lord Jesus, liberate us from our own false ideas and bindings.”

Bible Reflections I 17.01.2023 - TUESDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time: Week 2

Readings 

           I: Heb. 6: 10-20

          II: Mk. 2: 23-28

St. Anthony the Abbot (Memorial)

                                

LAW IS MADE FOR MAN

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.

Law is made for man and not man for the law. We often times do stick on to the practices of religion but the practice of the essence of religion itself. Today’s Gospel passage is an invitation to get on the right track than lingering on our idea of religion. Love, kindness, charity and humanness takes precedence over any external act of the practice of religion viz fasting, pilgrimage, abstinence…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 as we keep repeating the prayer: “St. Antony, Pray for us.”

Bible Reflections I 16.01.2023 - MONDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time: Week 2

Readings 

           I: Heb. 5: 1-10

          II: Mk. 2: 18-22            

                

RIGHT THING AT THE RIGHT TIME

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 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. Learn to do the right thing at the right time instead of blaming others and the time.

Bible Reflections I 15.01.2023 - SUNDAY I INDRAYA MANNA

Ordinary Time: Sunday Week 2

Readings 

           I: Is. 49: 3, 5-6

          II: 1 Cor. 1: 1-3

         III: Jn. 1: 29-34

                       

WHO AM I? FOR WHOM AM I? 

The three readings of the day invites us to reflect on two questions: “Who am I?” and “For whom am I?” In the first reading of the day, Isaiah is convinced that he is the servant of the Lord and honoured in his eyes and; he was light to the tribes of Israel; the raise the tribes of Jacob and bring back the preserved of Israel. In the second reading St. Paul writes convincingly to the Corinthians that he was called by God to be an apostle of Christ Jesus. In the Gospel passage John the Baptist introduces Jesus as the Lamb of God who had come to save the humankind. In this light reflect on your own lives. We are the children of God through our baptism and partakers in the mission of Christ Jesus our Lord. As the first and the second reading says we are called to be light to all around us leading them to God and to be saints, as saint Paul says. May the Lord help us to live our lives as lights among the people who we live with and bear witness being saints.

Today in Tamil Nadu we celebrate the Harvest Day, Pongal, a day of thanksgiving to God for the fruits of the earth and the gift of nature that nurture and sustain our wellbeing. On this day we also gratefully remember the farmers who produce our food and remain unassuming amidst struggles and challenges. They are often also underestimated and neglected. On this precious day, as we thank God for the harvest, take some time to thank the famers if you happen to meet them and offer our prayers for them. Resolve also to protect and preserve nature that provides and protects us. Happy Pongal to one and all!

Bible Reflections I 14.01.2023 - SATURDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time - Week 1

Readings 

           I - Heb. 4: 12-26

          II - Mk. 2: 13-17

                       

SAINT DEVASAHAYAM 

Today the Church celebrates the feast of St. Devasahayam, an Indian layman and the martyr of the Catholic Church.  Neelakandan Pillai was born in an affluent Hindu family on April 23, 1917 in Nattalam village in Kanyakumari District, Tamil Nadu.  When he was put in charge of State affair, he came in contact with Captain Eustachius De Lannoy, the Dutch Naval Commander, who awakened his interest in Christian Faith.  He and his family members were baptised in 1745 and Neelakandan took the name ‘Devasahayam’.  “His conversion did not go well with the heads of his native religion. False charges of treason and espionage were brought against him and he was divested of his post in the royal administration,” the Vatican said in a note in February 2020. According to the Vatican, “while preaching, he particularly insisted on the equality of all people, despite caste differences”, which “aroused the hatred of the higher classes, and he was arrested in 1749”.  On January 14, 1752, Devasahayam was shot dead in and was martyred in the Aralvaimozhy forest. His mortal remains were interred in Saint Francis Xavier’s Cathedral, Kottar, Nagercoil. He was canonised on May 15, 2022 by Pope Francis.  

The Gospel passage of the day is about the call of Matthew the Tax collector, considered as sinner by his own people.  At the call of Jesus, slighting the comments and the criticism of the people, Matthew left the tax office and followed him till the end of his life. We are chosen and called to be his followers through our baptism.  Do we have the courage like the saint of the day and Matthew to give up all in the process of following him? May the feast we celebrate enkindle our faith and desire to bear witness to the Lord in every one of our word and deed. Let our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “St. Devasahayam, Pray for us.”

Bible Reflections I 13.01.2022 - FRIDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time: Week 1

Readings 

           I - Heb. 4: 1-5, 11

          II - Mk. 2: 1-12

                       

STRIVE TO DO GOOD 

We come across two sets of people in the Gospel passage of the day. The Gospel passage is about the healing of the paralytic. The four men who carried the paralytic were striving to good namely, to bring healing to the paralytic. They were relentless in finding the way to bring the paralytic to Jesus for healing. They removed the roof, made an opening and let down the bed near Jesus and finally Jesus heals the paralytic on account of their faith. The scribes seated there were trying to find fault, questioning the authority of Jesus to forgive sins.  

Whenever we read this passage we are prone to appreciate the four who took much effort in bringing healing to the paralytic and criticise the scribes for their fault finding attitude. Examine your own actions in this light. In our hatred and jealousy on people, we too sometimes do criticise and cause problems to the one who strives for good. We often also turn blind to look at the good accomplished and appreciate people around us. Do good to others and also resolve to encourage people to try their best to do good to others. Let our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “Lord Jesus, give us a magnanimous heart to appreciate others”

Bible Reflections I 12.01.2023 - THURSDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time - Week 1

Readings 

           I - Heb. 3: 7-14

          II - Mk. 1: 40-45

                      

HUMBLE YOURSELVES BEFORE THE LORD 

The Gospel passage of the day is about the healing of the leper.  He came to Jesus, knelt before him and pleaded for a healing.  He was humble and honest in his pleading.  He was in deed healed by Jesus.  Jesus healed him from his physical ailment, the leprosy; social and psychological ailment, ostracization from the community and; spiritual ailment, leprosy was considered to be a punishment of sin.  The leper was healed and restored back to his family and society.

There is a distinction between religiosity and spirituality.  Religiosity is the spiritual practices viz. saying prayers, taking up a pilgrimage, frequent fasting…whereas spirituality is something of the heart. Sincere observance of the religious principles.  Today what is more prevalent in the world is religiosity and the satisfaction they derive from the same. This is why more crime, selfishness and all havoc.  What is essential is a humble and sincere heart.  When we approach God with a sincere heart and in humility, God grants our prayers. Let our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “Lord Jesus, create in me a humble and sincere heart.”

Bible Reflections I 11.01.2023 - WEDNESDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time - Week 1

Readings 

           I - Heb. 2: 14-18

          II - Mk. 1: 29-39        

                

PRAY TO LIVE BY THE PLAN 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. 

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. May our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “Lord Jesus, let my prayer life effect my personal life”

Bible Reflections I 10.01.2023 - TUESDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time - Week 1

Readings 

           I - Heb. 2: 5-12 

          II - Mk. 1: 21-28

                      

THE WORD OF GOD IS POWER

In today’s Gospel passage the people in the synagogue were astonished at the teachings of Jesus because he spoke with authority. The crowd was amazed that the unclean spirit obliged to the command of Jesus. 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. Therefore there was ultimate power in his word that had command and control over all things on the earth and under the earth.  

The Gospel passages evinces to the power of the Word of God. “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 all 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 strengthens, supports and helps; 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 09.01.2023 - MONDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Readings 

           I - Is. 42: 1-4, 6-7

          II - Mt. 3: 13-17

BAPTISM OF THE LORD (Feast)

                  

Today the Church celebrates the feast of the Baptism of our Lord. The public ministry of Jesus begins with his baptism. In the baptism of Jesus, two things take place: one, the baptism of John the Baptist is the baptism of repentance, meant for the conversion of sinners. Jesus receives baptism in the hands of John the Baptist making himself one among the sinners so as to save the sinners. And, secondly, Jesus gets the clarity of his mission with the baptism as prophesied by Prophet Isaiah in the first reading. Soon after his baptism, Jesus led by the Spirit goes into the desert fasting and praying before beginning his public ministry. With the desert experiences Jesus launches for his work among the people healing, preaching and proclaiming that the Kingdom of God was among them.

We have been baptised in the Lord into the Catholic and Apostolic Church by our parents, God parents and in the company of the faithful. Failing to realise our mission as the baptised children of God would betray our baptism. The Spirit of the Lord is with us too. Often we fail to heed to him because it is costing. Ask for the grace from the Lord to adhere to the voice of the Holy Spirit so that we may also become like Jesus ‘the beloved children’ of the Father in Heaven. Let our mind and heart resonate with the prayer, “Lord Jesus, help us to be your authentic witnesses.”

Bible Reflections I 08.01.2023 - SUNDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Readings 

           I - Is. 60: 1-6

          II - Eph. 3: 2-3, 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.”

Bible Reflections I 07.01.2023 - SATURDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Christmas Week 2

Readings 

           I - 1 Jn. 5: 14-21

          II – Jn. 2: 1-11

FAITH + OBEDIENCE = MIRACLE

        

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 faith of Mother Mary and the servants together made the miracle possible.  The faith of Mother Mary that her Son, Jesus could do something to solve the problem and the faith of the servants to fill the jars with plain water without a word of doubt and in obedience to the words of Jesus worked out the miracle at the wedding.   

All things are possible to the one who has faith in God.  Mother Mary told the servants, “Do whatever he tells you” and they did it. Surrender to the Lord in faith and invoke his power to transform us into that type of person that God intends: a new wine of cheer, joy, happiness, peace, comfort and consolation to whomever we come in contact with.  Today being first Saturday let us take the assistance of our Blessed Mother to surrender ourselves unto the Lord in obedience and faith. May our Blessed Mother intercede for us as we keep repeating this prayer throughout the day in the silence of our hearts: “Blessed Virgin Mary, Pray for us.”

Bible Reflections I 06.01.2022 - FRIDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Christmas Week 2

Readings 

           I - 1 Jn. 5: 5-13

          II - Mk. 1: 7-11

“YOU ARE MY BELOVED CHILD”

           

Today’s Gospel passage is about the baptism of Jesus. We can reflect on two points. The humility of John the Baptist calling himself unworthy to untie the sandals of Jesus and the affirmation of Jesus as beloved Son of God. When Jesus came up of the waters three things happened: the heavens were opened, the Spirit of the Lord descended upon him like a dove and the voice from heaven saying, “You are my beloved Son; with you I am well pleased.” 

The two take aways from this passage could be: becoming humble like John the Baptist to discover and appreciate the presence of the Lord amidst us and two reflecting upon our baptism in the light of the baptism of Jesus. We were also taken to the church to be baptised, and have become children of God. We were gifted with the Holy Spirit at the time of our Baptism. With the gifts bestowed if we are able to reap the fruits of the Holy Spirit in our lives we can hear the Father saying, “You are my beloved child; with you I am well pleased.” As the Lord to give us the courage to live by the gifts we have received during our baptism.

Bible Reflections I 05.01.2023 - THURSDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Christmas Week 2

Readings 

           I - 1 Jn. 3: 11-21

          II - Jn. 1: 43-51

BECOME THE MESSENGERS OF THE TRUTH

          

In today’s Gospel passage Philip takes or rather leads Nathanael to Jesus. He helped Nathanael to discover the Messiah for himself in Jesus as did in yesterday’s Gospel passage Andrew did to Peter. When Philip spoke about Jesus to Nathanael, in all his simplicity he asked, “Can anything good come from Nazareth?” (Jn. 1: 46) and still with the openness of heart he went with Philip to verify for himself if Jesus was the Messiah and he indeed beheld the truth after meeting Jesus, the Messiah.  

We are draw two messages from the Gospel passage of the day. Firstly, if we have discovered the Lord, we cannot but proclaim him to others. We begin to gather people around Jesus than just to be contented with the Good News we have received. And secondly, Nathanael was open to the truth, to accept Jesus as the Messiah. We complicate our life that is so simple, create confusion to conceal reality, and willfully reject to accept the truth. Openness of heart can overtake prejudice, simplicity can surpass stubbornness and pave way to pursue all that is true, real and lasting. Be open to discover the Lord with simplicity and sincerity to be his effective messengers. Let our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “Lord Jesus, help us to become the messengers of the truth.”

Bible Reflections I 04.01.2023 - WEDNESDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Christmas Week 2

Readings 

           I - 1 Jn. 3: 7-10

          II - Jn. 1: 35-42

SEEK THE LORD AND YOU WILL FIND

         

In yesterday’s Gospel passage John the Baptist, inspired by the Holy Spirit discovers Jesus as the Lamb of God.  Having found him to be the One for whom he had been preparing the way, introduces Jesus to his disciples.  The disciples of John the Baptist there after seeks to be the disciple of Jesus.  With the invitation of Jesus to “come and see”, they go with him and stay with him forever. The joy was not contained in themselves but they went and proclaimed Jesus and in their turn they introduced Jesus to his brother Simon Peter who became the rock of the Church.

If we ardently seek for the Lord, we are sure to find him.  Our problem is that we are distracted from concentrating on him. Allow the passage to inspire you to search for the Lord so that we can stay with him like his disciples forever and share this Joy with many whom we come in contact with.  Because, relentless and sincere search leads to the truth and the truth discovered cannot but be proclaimed to others.  Let our mind and heart resonate with the prayer, “Lord Jesus, help us to seek you with an open heart and mind”.

Bible Reflections I 03.01.2023 - TUESDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Christmas Week 2

Readings 

           I - 1 Jn. 2: 29 - 3:6

          II - Jn. 1: 29-34

Holy Name of Jesus

Saint Kuriakose Elias Chavara 

BEHOLD THE LAMB OF GOD

          

In today’s Gospel passage, John the Baptist identifies the Lamb of God, Jesus; introduces him to his disciples and bears witness to him. John the Baptist was able to identify the Lamb of God because the Holy Spirit had revealed to him. The Holy Spirit is the Counsellor, inspirer and the advocate. Every day during the mass, we hear the priest lifting up the host and say, “Behold the Lamb of God”. Jesus, the Lamb of God is the one who had taken away our sins on his shoulders as did the sacrificial lamb of the people of Israel. Do we realise this at those moments? If not, intercede with the Holy Spirit for such a grace so that we too can like John the Baptist discover Jesus and bear witness to him in our lives as did John the Baptist. For such a grace we need to allow the Holy Spirit to work in us. Be open to the Holy Spirit and discover Jesus, the Lamb of God in order to bear witness to him.

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). 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”

Today we celebrate the feast of St. Kuriakose Elias Chavara from Kainakary, Kerala, Southwestern India. He was an educator and a social reformer. He started schools in Mannanam and Arpookara. He had also started St. Joseph’s printing press in Mannanam, the third printing press in Kerala. Aware that children need to be fed before being taught, he instituted midday meal programme for the children. He served as Vicar-General of the Syro-Malabar Church and worked hard to renew the faith of the people. He was the Co-founder and the first Prior-General of the Congregation of the Carmelites of Mary Immaculate and also the Co-founder of the Congregation of the Sisters of the Mother of Carmel. The congregation served in the field of education empowering especially the women and the children. Kuriakose Elias Chavara was beautified by St. Pope John Paul II on February 8, 1986 at Kottayam, India and was canonised on November 23, 2014 by Pope Francis. The saint was a man of prayer and is known for his devotion to the Holy Eucharist and the Blessed Virgin Mary. May the saint intercede for us to discover the Lamb of God as did John the Baptist so as to be effective witnesses of him.

Bible Reflections I 02.01.2023 - MONDAY I INDRAYA MANNA

Christmas Week 2

Readings 

           I - 1 Jn. 2: 22-28

          II - Jn. 1: 19-28

HUMILITY IS SELF-ACCEPTANCE

            

Humility is self-acceptance. In other words, only the one who is aware of one self can be truly humble for self-knowledge leads to self-acceptance and self-acceptance adorns the person with the great virtue of humility. In today’s Gospel passage, the Jews send some priests and religious to John the Baptist to enquire about his identity that is whether he is the Messiah. John the Baptist reveals his identity telling that he is the voice crying in wilderness, preparing the way of the Messiah. He is also humble enough to say that he was unworthy to untie the sandals of the Messiah. Reading this passage, I’m reminded of Emeritus Benedict XVI who during his resignation said, “After having repeatedly examined my conscience before God, I have come to the certainty that my strengths, due to an advanced age, are no longer suited to an adequate exercise of the Petrine ministry. I am well aware that this ministry, due to its essential spiritual nature, must be carried out not only with words and deeds, but no less with prayer and suffering…… I wish to also devotedly serve the Holy Church of God in the future through a life dedicated to prayer.” Self-acceptance leading to humility to the extent of renouncing his papacy wishing for the utmost good.

People wish to become popular having fans, friends and followers, trending in social media and network. They want to always add an ‘extra’ to their existence that is not real. They even grab the glory of others at their own credit. These are the people whom the psychologist say that they are with low self-esteem and self-knowledge. They project themselves to be someone that in reality are not. Self-knowledge give self-acceptance and when we are aware of our own selves we project the same with no pretension. Become humble, happy and joyful because each one of us unique created for a unique purpose. Be convinced of this and live your own life with courage and conviction.