Bible Reflections I 21.11.2021 - Sunday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 34

Readings 

           I - Dan. 7: 13-19 

          II - Rev. 1: 5-8

         III - Jh. 18: 33-37

                   

SOLEMNITY OF CHRIST THE KING

                  

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

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

Bible Reflections I 20.11.2021 - Saturday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 33

Readings 

           I - 1 Macc. 6: 1-13 

          II - Lk. 20: 27-40

                  

CHOOSE GOD; CHOOSE LIFE

                  

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

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

Bible Reflections I 19.11.2021 - Friday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 33

Readings 

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

          II - Lk. 19: 45-48

                

THE POWER OF LIFE AND THE POWER OF WORDS 

                  

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

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

Bible Reflections I 18.11.2021 - Thursday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 33

Readings 

           I - 1 Macc. 2: 15-29 

          II - Lk. 19: 41-44

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

               

RECONGNISE THE LORD AS HE COMES TO VISIT US

                  

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

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

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

Bible Reflections I 17.11.2021 - Wednesday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 33

Readings 

           I - 2 Macc. 7: 1, 20-31 

          II - Lk. 19: 11-28

           

UNTIL HE COMES AGAIN IN GLORY….

                  

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

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

Bible Reflections I 16.11.2021 Tuesday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 33

Readings 

           I - 2 Macc. 6: 18-31 

          II - Lk. 19: 1-10

                   

TO GIVE UP TO GAIN

                  

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

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

Bible Reflections I 15.11.2021 - Monday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 33

Readings 

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

          II - Lk. 18: 35-43

                   

THE LORD IS NEAR TO ALL WHO CALL HIM

                  

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

Call to the Lord

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

Perseverance

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

Remain grateful

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

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

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

Bible Reflections I 14.11.2021 - Sunday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 33

Readings 

           I - Dan. 12: 1-3

          II - Heb. 10: 11-14, 18

         III - Mk.  13: 24-32

      

WORLD DAY OF THE POOR

                  

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

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

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

Bible Reflections I 13.11.2021 - Saturday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 32

Readings 

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

          II - Lk. 18: 1-8

        

KEEP FAITH AGLOW

                  

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

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

Bible Reflections I 12.11.2021 - Friday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 32

Readings 

           I - Wis. 13: 1- 9

          II - Lk. 17: 26-37

St. Josaphat, Bishop, Martyr (Memorial)

         

GET SET TO LIVE FOR THE LORD

                  

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

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

Bible Reflections I 11.11.2021 - Thursday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 32

Readings 

           I - Wis. 7: 22 - 8: 1

          II - Lk. 17: 20-25

THE KINGDOM OF GOD IS AMIDST US

                  

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

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

Bible Reflections I 10.11.2021 - Wednesday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 32

Readings 

           I - Wis. 6: 1-11

          II - Lk. 17: 11-19

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

          

GRATITUDE IS AN ATTITUDE

                  

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

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

Bible Reflections I 09.11.2021 - Tuesday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 32

Readings 

           I - Ezk. 47: 1-2, 8-9, 12

          II - Jn. 2: 13-22

Dedication of the Lateran Basilica (Feast) 

          

WE ARE THE TEMPLE OF GOD

                  

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

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

Bible Reflections I 08.11.2021 - Monday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 32

Readings 

           I - Wis. 1: 1-7

          II - Lk. 17: 1-6

          

HAVE FAITH AND HAVE ALL

                  

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

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

Bible Reflections I 07.11.2021 - Sunday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 32

Readings 

           I - I Kings 17: 10-16

          II - Heb. 9: 24-28

          II - Mk. 12: 38-44

GIVE AND IT WILL BE GIVEN TO YOU

                  

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

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

Bible Reflections I 06.11.2021 - Saturday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 31

Readings 

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

          II - Lk. 16: 9-15

GOD OR WEALTH - THE CHOICE IS YOURS

                  

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

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

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

Bible Reflections I 05.11.2021 - Friday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 31

Readings 

           I - Rom. 15: 14-21

          II - Lk. 16: 1-8

BE SHREWD ENOUGH TO INHERIT LIFE ETERNAL

                  

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

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

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

Bible Reflections I 04.11.2021 - Thursday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 31

Readings 

           I - Rom. 14: 7-12

          II - Lk. 15: 1-10

GATHER WITH JESUS

                  

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

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

Bible Reflections I 03.11.2021 - Wednesday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 31

Readings 

           I - Rom. 13: 8-10

          II - Lk. 14: 25-33

THE THREE Ds OF DISCIPLESHIP

                  

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

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

Bible Reflections I 02.11.2021 - Tuesday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 31

Readings 

           I - Job. 19: 1, 23-27

           II - Rom. 6: 3-4, 8-9

          III - Mt. 5: 1-12

ALL SOULS DAY (Optional Memorial)

          

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

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

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

Bible Reflections I 01.11.2021 - Monday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 31

Readings 

        I - Rev. 7: 2-4, 9-14

       II - IJn. 3: 1-3

       II - Mt. 5: 1-12

ALL SAINTS DAY (Solemnity)

                  

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

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

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

Bible Reflections I 30.10.2021 - Saturday I Indraya Manna i

Ordinary Time - Week 30

Readings 

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

          II - Lk. 14: 1, 7-11

SHUN SHOW OFF

                  

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

Bible Reflections I 29.10.2021 - Friday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 30

Readings 

           I - Rom. 9: 1-5

           II - Lk. 14: 1-6

LET HUMANESS SURPASS ALL THINGS

                  

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

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

Bible Reflections I 28.10.2021 - Thursday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 30

Readings 

            I - Eph. 2: 19-22

           II - Lk. 6: 12-16

Saints Simon and Jude, Apostles (Feast)

YOU ARE GOD’S CHOICE

                  

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

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

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

Bible Reflections I 27.10.2021 - Wednesday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 30

Readings 

            I - Rom. 8: 26-30

           II - Lk. 13: 22-30

JESUS IS THE SURE DOOR TO HEAVEN

                  

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

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

Bible Reflections I 26.10.2021 - Tuesday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 30

Readings 

            I - Rom. 8: 18-25

           II - Lk. 13: 18-21

MITE IS MIGHT WITH THE ALMIGHTY

                  

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

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

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

Bible Reflections I 25.10.2021 - Monday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 30

Readings 

            I - Rom. 8: 12-17

           II - Lk. 13: 10-17

DO GOOD AT ALL TIMES 24X7 

                  

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

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

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

Bible Reflections I 24.10.2021 - Sunday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 30

Readings 

            I - Jer. 31: 7-9

           II - Heb. 5: 1-6

          III - Mk. 10: 46-52

PRIESTS ARE GOD’S PREDELICTS - MISSION SUNDAY 

                  

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

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

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

Bible Reflections I 23.10.2021 - Saturday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 29

Readings 

            I - Rom. : 8:1-11

           II - Lk. 13: 1-9

BECOME SENSITIVE TO THE SIGNAL OF GOD

                  

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

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

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

Bible Reflections I 22.10.2021 - Friday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 29

Readings 

            I - Rom. : 7:18-25

           II - Lk. 12: 54-59

St. John Paul II (Pope)

Optional Memorial

BE SMART ENOUGH TO GRASP THE SIGNS OF THE TIME

         

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

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

Bible Reflections I 21.10.2021 - Thursday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 29

Readings 

            I - Rom. : 6:19-23

           II - Lk. 12: 49-53

PEACE - THE PROMISE OF JESUS TO THE PERSONS OF GOODWILL

                 

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

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

Bible Reflections I 20.10.2021 - Wednesday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 29

Readings 

            I - Rom. : 6:12-18

           II - Lk. 12: 39-48

DESTINY IS DETERMINED BY DECISION

                  

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

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

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

Bible Reflections I 19.10.2021 - Tuesday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 29

Readings 

            I - Rom. : 5:12-15

           II - Lk. 12: 35-38

PREPAREDNESS, PATIENCE AND PERSEVERANCE PAYS

                  

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

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

Bible Reflections I 18.10.2021 - Monday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 29

Readings 

         I - 2Tim: 4:10-17

       II - Lk. 10: 1-9

St. Luke, Evangelist (Feast)

BECOME AN EFFECTIVE MESSENGER OF THE GOOD NEWS

                  

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

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

Bible Reflections I 17.10.2021 - Sunday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 29

Readings 

            I - Is. 53: 10-11

           II - Heb. 4: 14-16

          III - Mk. 10: 35-45

LEADERSHIP IS SERVICE - A PARADIGM SHIFT

                  

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

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

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

Bible Reflections I 16.10.2021 - Saturday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 28

Readings 

            I - Rom. 4: 13, 16-18

           II - Lk. 12: 8-12

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

RECOGNISE TO BE RECOGNISED IN THE PARADISE

                  

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

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

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

Bible Reflections I 15.10.2021- Friday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 28

Readings 

            I - Rom. 4: 1-8

           II - Lk. 12: 1-7

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

GOD CARETH FOR YOU

                  

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

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

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

Bible Reflections I 14.10.2021 - Thursday I Indraya Manna I

Ordinary Time - Week 28

Readings 

            I - Rom. 3: 21-30

           II - Lk. 11: 47-54

WE ARE THE CHILDREN OF GOD CALLED TO BE BLESSED                  

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

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