Bible Reflections I 30.08.2022 - WEDNESDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time - Week 22

Readings 

             I - 1 Cor. 2: 10-16

           II - Lk. 4: 31-37

ADHERE TO THE WORD OF THE LORD

The Scribes and the Pharisees quoted the Scripture as point of reference.  The prophets, the mouth piece of the Lord prophesied saying, “thus says the Lord”.  But Jesus spoke with authority because he was the Word himself, the Son of God and the word incarnate. This is why unlike the others, the words of Jesus were with authority and they had power over the nature, sickness, sin and the evil spirit.  In today’s Gospel passage, to the amazement of the crowd, Jesus preached with authority and cured the man possessed by the demon.  The evil spirit obeyed the words of Jesus and left the man instantly at his command.

In the light of the Gospel passage of the day, let us reflect upon our adherence to the Word of the Lord.  Every day we read God’s word personally and listen during the holy mass.  The evil spirit obeyed the words of Jesus.  We are filled with the Holy Spirit and are unable to adhere to God’s words.  Examine the reasons for the same and try to obey the Word of God.  May our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “Lord Jesus, help me to obey your words overcoming my weaknesses”.   

Bible Reflections I 29.08.2022 - MONDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time - Week 22

Readings 

             I - Jer. 1: 17-19

           II - Mk. 6: 17-29

BEHEADING OF ST. JOHN THE BAPTIST

The Church today remembers the martyrdom of St. John the Baptist, the last prophet of the Old Testament and the forerunner of the Messiah, Jesus Christ.  St. John the Baptist was simple, that he had no pomp and glory in his living; straightforward in pointing the pointing the mistakes of the people be it even a king and steadfast in preparing the way of the Lord through his baptism of conversion.  He was beheaded because he was outright in pointing the mistake of the Herod that it was not right for Herod to live with his brother’s wife.  This truth hurt Herodias badly and she waited for a chance to outlet her vengeance and rightly utilised also the opportunity in instigating her daughter.  Though Herod knew that St. John the Baptist was right and holy man, he gave in to his ego and cowardice.  Herodias’ daughter also had her share in this beheading, her failure to discern and decide about her gift. 

We can draw four lessons from the beheading of St. John the Baptist: one, the courage of St. John the Baptist to stand for the truth come what may, even if it cost our life; two, never let vengeance flag at the cost of the destruction of the other; three, have courage to stand up for the right subduing ego and finally, make discernment at every juncture of life.  Let our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “St. John the Baptist, Pray for us”      

Bible Reflections I 28.08.2022 - SUNDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time - Week 22

Readings 

            I - Sir. 3: 17-18, 20, 28-29

           II - Heb. 12: 18-19, 22-24

          III - Lk. 14: 1, 7-14

BE HUMBLE AND REMAIN KIND

The Scriptural passages of the day insists on two important values: humility and kindness.  Humble people care for the poor, oppressed, marginalised and the invalid. They feel their responsibility in helping them and are concerned thereby in building about the kingdom of God. In the Gospel passage of the day, Jesus exhorts the Pharisees who invited him for a meal, to humble themselves.  He also insists to invite the poor and the less privileged for the celebration who would be unable to payback. It is the humble and the kind people who will be considered great in the kingdom of God.

Humility and kindness are intertwined.  The two values co-exist.  If you wish to check whether you are humble, examine whether you are kind; and vice versa.  Humility springs froth from our trust and belief in God.  As Saint Paul in his letter to the Philippians says, “in humility consider others better than yourselves.” (Phil. 2: 3), only a humble person can have concern for the others. This care, concern and the responsibility towards the under privileged can cause the kingdom of God, blossoming on the earth.  Let our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “Lord Jesus, give me the courage to remain humble”.

Bible Reflections I 27.08.2022 - SATURDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time - Week 21

Readings 

            I - 1 Cor. 1: 26-31

           II - Mt. 25: 14-30

SERVE GOD AND HUMANITY WITH YOUR LIFE 

Today’s Gospel passage is about the parable of the talents.  The masters entrusts to the servants five, two and one talents, according to their ability and goes on his journey.  The first two servants who received five and two talents multiplied them through their hard work and returned as ten and four talents respectively to their master on his return.  The third servant returned the one he received besides accusing the master himself saying, “Master, I knew you to be a hard man, reaping where you did not sow, and gathering where you scattered no seed”.  The good and faithful servants received their rewards and; the wicked and the slothful servant received his punishment.  

Like the master in the parable, God has entrusted each of us with talents with great trust and confidence.  He has entrusted unconditionally without any strings attached to it.  But it is our responsibility to be industrious in utilizing the same in building up the humanity.  Otherwise we will resemble that wicked servant who did nothing but blamed the master himself, for his laziness.  We need not compare the talents with one another but be convinced that we are given according to our ability. In the light of this Gospel passage let us examine how we utilise our God given talents.  At the end of time the Lord will reward those who serve him and the humanity with the talents given and punish those who are irresponsible and slothful. Let our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “Lord Jesus, help me to appreciate and utilise the talents given to me for your love and service”.

Bible Reflections I 26.08.2022 - FRIDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time - Week 21

Readings 

            I - 1 Cor. 1: 17-25

           II - Mt. 25: 1-13

BE PREPARED TO BEHOLD THE LORD

Today’s Gospel passage is about the parable of the ten bridesmaids; five foolish and five wise. To understand this parable we need to understand the background of this context. In the Jewish tradition, after the wedding, it is customary for the bridegroom to come to the bride’s house and take her for a banquet with him along with the bridesmaids. The bridegroom might come at any part of the night. The time was uncertain but the coming was sure. It was mandatory to be present with the lamp lit and the wedding garment on, to enter into the wedding hall. The foolish five virgins knew about it. It was indeed an attitude of carelessness of not taking required oil along with them and so we cannot regret for the five foolish women. The wise five had their reward of entering into the wedding hall with the bridegroom for their long watchful waiting in preparedness and faithfulness.  

To take up a journey to any nation we need passport and VISA. Our life on earth is a journey towards the world of bliss with the Lord. Like passport and VISA we need two things to enter into the Paradise of God: one, trust and hope in the Lord and two, love and service to the humanity. The bible says, “Love covers over a multitude of sins” (Prov. 10: 12; 1 Pt. 4: 8). Charity is our passport, the requirement into heaven. With this trust and hope in the Lord keep yourselves prepared with the acts of Charity to partake in the blissful banquet of the Lord. Let our mind and heat resonate with the prayer: “Lord Jesus, fill my heart with your love”.

Bible Reflections I 25.08.2022 - THURSDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time - Week 21

Readings 

            I - 1 Cor. 1: 1- 9

           II - Mt. 24: 42-51

Today’s Gospel passage is about the preparedness to behold the arrival of the Son of Man at an unexpected hour. His coming may be delayed but it is certain. This passage is an invitation to be vigilant and keep working while waiting for the Lord. So that we may be found ‘blessed’ before the Lord as he comes in his glory to meet us. The ‘blessed’ will be inherit eternal bliss while the others, eternal condemnation.

Even from the world’s view almost all labourers wish to appear working in the eyes of their masters. They strive hard for this so as to earn the wealth of the world that that is not real. The one thing that is necessary, essential and that determines the purpose of our existence here on this earth is to be with the Lord at the end of our earthly existence. May this passage inspire us to stay prepared for eternal reward and happiness that comes with our noble living set out by our Lord based on the Law of Love.

Bible Reflections I 24.08.2022 - WEDNESDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time - Week 21

Readings 

           I - Rev. 21: 9-14

           II - Jn. 1: 45-51

ST. BARTHOLOMEW, APOSTLE (Feast)

The Church celebrates the feast of St. Bartholomew also known as Nathaniel as mentioned in the Gospel passage. Nathaniel like any other Jew asks with a prejudiced mind to Phillip, “Can anything good come from Nazareth”. But, with the simplicity of heart and openness to the truth Bartholomew adheres to Phillip’s, “Come and see”. Jesus appreciates the sincerity of Nathaniel saying, “Here truly is an Israelite in whom there is no deceit”. Nathaniel in his conversation with Jesus, was convinced that Jesus was the Messiah, the Son of God and thereafter followed him with conviction.

We easily get prejudiced because of the rumours, gossips, experiences and encounters. We evaluate and estimate people from the place they come, to the family the belong, the caste and creed of the person, educational background, culture and their lifestyle. In this bargain we might miss meeting the wonderful person in him/her. Accept persons as they are to savour the goodness present in them. May the feast of St. Bartholomew, help us to give up our prejudice and discover the truth in every person. Let our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “St. Bartholomew, Pray for us”.

Bible Reflections I 23.08.2022 - TUESDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time - Week 21

Readings 

            I - Is. 66: 18-21

           II - Lk. 13: 22-30

THE LAW OF THE LORD IS LOVE

The essence of the Law of the Lord is Love rippled to be reached out in justice, mercy and faithfulness. The Scribes and the Pharisees diluted the Law to the disadvantage of the people making it stringent and difficult to observe. Jesus calls the Scribes and the Pharisees hypocrites because they were straining out gnat and swallowing camel meaning to say that the Scribes and the Pharisees insisted on the observance of the external bypassing the essence of the Law that was essential.

We wish to appear to be good in the eyes of the people but what Jesus demands from the Gospel passage is that we are merciful, just and righteous rooted in the Law of love. Who doesn’t wish to be claimed to be “good”? What is important is that we appear pleasing in the sight of the Lord by fostering humanity and humanness in our approach. Be original, be loving and be natural for this is God’s will for us.

Bible Reflections I 22.08.2022 - MONDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time - Week 21

Readings 

            I - Is. 9: 2-7

           II - Lk. 1: 26-38

QUEENSHIP OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY (Memorial)

Today the Church celebrates the feast of the Queenship of Mother Mary. Pope Pius XII instituted this feast in 1954. The celebration has its roots in the Scripture. At the annunciation, the angel Gabriel, as we have heard it read in the Gospel reading, says, “The Lord will give to him the throne of his father David, and he will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of his kingdom there will be no end”. In the first reading Prophet Isiah titles him as ‘Prince of Peace’ and prophesy that his kingdom would have no end. Mary’s Queenship is a share in the kingship of her son Jesus. Pope Pius XII in his encyclical “To the Queen of Heaven” Justify her title as ‘Queen’ emphasizing that she was the Mother of God and the Mother of King and that she was closely associated with the redemptive work of her son. 

In the litany of the Rosary invoke the intercession of mother Mary, calling her as ‘Queen’. She is queen of heaven and of the earth because she had been faithful to her ‘fiat’ meaning ‘let it be done’ until her assumption into Heaven. Mary served the Lord in humility and obedience even in the most trying situations, all with faith and in faithfulness. Let us implore Mother Mary’s intercession, assistance, support and guidance in our fidelity and commitment to the Lord as His beloved children. Let our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “Mother Mary, Queen of heaven and of the earth, Pray for us.

Bible Reflections I 21.08.2022 - SUNDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time - Week 21

Readings 

            I - Is. 66: 18-21

           II - Heb. 12: 5-7, 11-13

          III - Lk. 13: 22-30

DARE TO CHOOSE THE NARROW GATE

Salvation is an open invitation and God’s gift is the crux of the all three readings today. The Jews considered that they were God’s own people destined for salvation and they took delight in the same. Jesus topsy-turvy their idea saying that salvation is possible to all who try to enter through the narrow gate. Entering through narrow gate is choosing to live by the teaching of Christ that demands sacrifices and endurance of sufferings. Sometimes we are unaware of the reason for our suffering. The second reading enlightens us that those are the moments that God disciplines us like a father does to his children. He does this because He wishes and wills that all of us would be with him in the paradise.

Entering through the narrow gate is not a small task but great effort to give up, to forego, to be belittled, to be humiliated, to repent and to return back. If we are ready to take up this task trusting in the grace of God our life would be a glory to him besides gaining the paradise, the eternal glory of being with Him. Let our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “Lord Jesus, give me the courage to choose the narrow gate at all times”.

Bible Reflections I 20.08.2022 - SATURDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time - Week 20

Readings 

            I - Ezk. 43: 1-7

           II - Mt. 23: 1-12

Today’s Gospel passage is about Jesus instructing the crowds and his disciples to listen to the Scribes and the Pharisees because they sit on Moses seat; and not to copy their life that was a hypocrisy. They wished to be recognised, respected and revered in the public. They showcased their religiosity so as to appear righteous which in reality they were not. They were living a life of duplicity and debauchery. Jesus admonishes this type of a life of falsity.  

We too like those Scribes and Pharisees seek for recognition and reward failing to remember, “Nothing in all creation is hidden from God’s sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of him to whom we must give account” (Heb. 4: 13). We are fragile, weak and sinners in need of the mercy of God. Shun self-promotion for that is an aversion to God for we are his children and He knows us through and through. Humble yourselves, acknowledge your frailty and accept yourself with sincerity. By this we become pleasing before the Lord. Let our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “Lord Jesus, help me to accept myself just as I am”

Bible Reflections I 19.08.2022 - FRIDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time - Week 20

Readings 

            I - Ezk. 37: 1-14

           II - Mt. 22: 34 - 40

LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOUR AS YOURSELF

For most of the questions of the Pharisees, the Sadducees, the Priests, the Elders and the Scribes Jesus gave a right and just response that was contradicting and conflicting their teachings and the traditions they followed. Jesus was not against the Law but was in fact rejuvenating the Law or in other words restoring the essence of the Law. To trap Jesus, the Pharisees in the Gospel passage of the day poses a vital question asking which is the greatest commandment. Jesus rightly responds that it is primarily to love God and secondly to love the neighbours. It is not merely loving neighbour but loving others as oneself. This is the uniqueness of Jesus’ teaching.

All of us wish to be loved and treated well. Jesus invites to extend that form of love a parameter for loving others. If we begin to love brethren in the way that our Lord had taught us, soon will there be kingdom of blossoming in our midst in the recognition that we are the children of one Father in heaven. Let our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “Lord Jesus, give me a magnanimous heart to love my neighbour”

Bible Reflections I 18.08.2022 - THURSDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time - Week 20

Readings 

            I - Ezk. 36: 23-28

           II - Mt. 22: 1-14

MANY ARE CALLED BUT FEW ARE CHOSEN

Holiness is the not privilege of the few is the crux of the Gospel passage today. In the parable of the wedding banquet, the king calls for the guests who had received the invitation to the banquet but they shirked and slighted giving silly reasons. Finally, at the king’s command, the wedding hall was filled with whomever they saw on the road.  Israel, the chosen race of God, paraded calling themselves ‘people of God’ but failed to recognise the ‘Son of God’, the Promised One in Jesus and thereby took his invitation into the kingdom of God for granted.  Whereas the sinners, tax collectors, outcasts and the gentiles obliged to his invitation and started amending their lives befitting to the kingdom of God true to the saying of Jesus, “may are called but few are chosen”.

In every event and person God beckons us for a worthy living in Him with necessary graces.  God desires that all of us inherit the eternal kingdom but it may demand us to rid our comfort zone.  It takes courage to respond to that invitation of God for eternal life. If we do so, we would be counted to be with Him in his wedding banquet, the paradise. This invitation is universal but the privileged partakers are those who respond to that invitation.

Bible Reflections I 17.08.2022 - WEDNESDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time - Week 20

Readings 

            I - Ezk. 34: 1-11

           II - Mt. 20: 1-16

THE LAST SHALL BE THE FIRST

Today’s Gospel passage is about the parable of the labourers in the vineyard. It is a subversive story of Jesus where all the labourers hired for the vineyard at various intervals of time are being paid equally with the message that the last shall be the first. The story epitomes the equality and justice that reign in the kingdom of God. The equality is that everyone was paid the same despite the number of labour hours they contributed; and justice is that every worker was given what was promised to him. The labourers of the early hours were unhappy about the equality and justice because they were envious that the other person who arrived later them too was paid equally. The parable of Jesus subverted the rule of the contemporary world order. The kingdom of God is the right of all persons and the one who walks on the way of the Lord inherits it from the very moment he/she decides to align his/her life to live by the law of the Lord.

The parable is an invitation and encouragement to all those who are astray from the kingdom of God. It is an invitation for a deep spiritual conversion and an encouragement that it is never too late to amend our lives for inheriting the kingdom of God. Like those labourers of early hours do not become envious instead appreciate and welcome the rhythm of change in the other for the better because all are children of God and there is no one greater or smaller in God’s kingdom. May our mind and heart resonate with the prayer, “Lord Jesus, give me a great and magnanimous heart like yours”.

Bible Reflections I 16.08.2022 - TUESDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time - Week 20

Readings 

            I - Ezk. 28: 1-10

           II - Mt. 19: 23-30

‘GIVE UP’ FOR A ‘GAIN’

In today’s Gospel passage, Jesus encourages to ‘give up’ in order to ‘gain all’ in abundance: a hundredfold here on earth and the eternal life after our life on the earth. A concept contrary to the contemporary word. Vain is concentrating on the riches that does not follow us after our life on earth. The riches in heaven vests in giving up which means, in sharing with the less privileged and the less fortunate. It is difficult for the rich to enter the kingdom of God because sharing is the norm that reign in kingdom of God and sharing is easy for the poor.

Name, fame, glory, honour, power, position and the wealth of the world can never obtain a happy and contented living. The happiness and the contentment comes with understanding, caring and sharing. Sharing heaps for us a treasure in heaven. Dare to share for inhering the eternal riches in heaven. Let our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “Lord Jesus, give me a generous heart to share my gifts with others”

Bible Reflections I 15.08.2022 - MONDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time - Week 20

Readings 

            I - Rev. 11: 9, 12:1-6, 10

           II - I Cor. 15: 20-27

          III - Lk. 1: 39-56

ASSUMPTION OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY (Solemnity)

INDIA’S INDEPENDENCE DAY

Today the Church solemnises the assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, body and soul into Heaven. The dogma of faith on the assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary was declared on 1st November, 1950 by Pope Pius XII: “The most Blessed Virgin Mary, when the course of her earthly life was completed, was taken body and soul into the glory of heaven, where she shares in the glory of her Son’s resurrection, anticipating the resurrection of all members of his body”.  Assumption of Mary is the prefiguration of the destiny of every member of the universal church.  

Mother Mary was privileged to assume into heaven because, primarily she was faithful to her call, to be the mother of God and secondly, she sought and accomplished the will the God at all time in her life.  The feast of assumption therefore becomes an invitation and inspiration for each of us to remain faithful to the state of life to which we have been called.  And, however challenging, trying or tearing, learn to take delight in seeking and accomplishing the will of God.  These two resolutions can help us combat the constant struggle between the good and evil making us victors, conquering the evil as did our Blessed Mother Mary. May our Blessed Mother help us too to be modeled after her as we solemnize this her feast day today. 

India celebrates the seventy fifth independence day today.  As we hoist the national flag in our houses commemorating the same, entrust India under the protection and help of Mother Mary that she may help all of us to live in unity, charity, prosperity, justice, equality and brotherhood.  Let us make the prayer of Tagore our own as we celebrate the Independence Day today by constantly repeating: “Into that heaven of freedom, my Father, let my country awake”.

Bible Reflections I 14.08.2022 - SUNDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time - Week 20

Readings 

            I - Rev. 11: 9, 12:1-6, 10

           II - I Cor. 15: 20-27

          III - Lk. 1: 39-56

ASSUMPTION OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY (Solemnity)

INDIA’S INDEPENDENCE DAY

Today the Church solemnises the assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, body and soul into Heaven. The dogma of faith on the assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary was declared on 1st November, 1950 by Pope Pius XII: “The most Blessed Virgin Mary, when the course of her earthly life was completed, was taken body and soul into the glory of heaven, where she shares in the glory of her Son’s resurrection, anticipating the resurrection of all members of his body”. Assumption of Mary is the prefiguration of the destiny of every member of the universal church.  

Mother Mary was privileged to assume into heaven because, primarily she was faithful to her call, to be the mother of God and secondly, she sought and accomplished the will the God at all time in her life. The feast of assumption therefore becomes an invitation and inspiration for each of us to remain faithful to the state of life to which we have been called. And, however challenging, trying or tearing, learn to take delight in seeking and accomplishing the will of God. These two resolutions can help us combat the constant struggle between the good and evil making us victors, conquering the evil as did our Blessed Mother Mary. May our Blessed Mother help us too to be modeled after her as we solemnize this her feast day today. 

India celebrates the seventy fifth independence day today. As we hoist the national flag in our houses commemorating the same, entrust India under the protection and help of Mother Mary that she may help all of us to live in unity, charity, prosperity, justice, equality and brotherhood. Let us make the prayer of Tagore our own as we celebrate the Independence Day today by constantly repeating: “Into that heaven of freedom, my Father, let my country awake”.

Bible Reflections I 13.08.2022 - SATURDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time - Week 19

Readings 

            I - Ezk. 18: 1-10, 13, 30-32

           II - Mt. 19: 13-15

WELCOME THE ‘NOBODY’

In today’s Gospel passage, the disciples rebuke the people who brought their children to Jesus that he may lay his hands on them and bless them. But Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me and do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of heaven”, blessed them and sent them away.  Children are also the representation of the poor, the weak, the oppressed, the women, the sinners and the less privileged who are considered as ‘nobody’ in the society.  These people are always the welcome guests of Jesus.  They are special and important to him.

In the light of the day’s Gospel passage let us examine our type of association with the people.  Do we take delight in socialising with the poor, the abandoned, the neglected and the less fortunate? Can these type of people feel comfortable in our company or in other words do we feel comfortable in their company? If not, with the grace of God and true to our identity as Christians and the followers of our Master Jesus Christ, align your lives unto the ways of the Gospel.  Let our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “Jesus, meek and humble of heart, make my heart like yours”.

Bible Reflections I 12.08.2022 - FRIDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time - Week 19

Readings 

            I - Ezk. 16: 1-15, 60, 63

           II - Mt. 19: 3-12

SERVE THE LORD INt FIDELITY

In today’s Gospel passage, Jesus highlights the sacredness and the characteristics of marriage. Marriage is sacred because it is instituted by God and so the important characteristics of marriage are, unity and indissolubility. The man and woman bound by the sacrament of marriage are called to be the sign of God’s love to one another with a lifelong commitment. Hearing the commitment involved in marriage, the disciples comments that it is better that one does not get married. Jesus enlightens them that to give up marriage and remain unmarried for the sake of God’s Kingdom is a grace given by God. Therefore, both, married life and unmarried for God’s kingdom are consecrated that calls for commitment and fidelity.

The influence of individualism, aspiration for absolute autonomy and upsurge of rationalism and relativism have belittled the sacredness and the commitment involved in marriage. Commitment holds good as long as it goes well. If otherwise, people are prone to end up in divorce. Marriage have become fragile in the name of compatibility and comfortable living. Develop understanding, reciprocity, forgiveness and above all family prayer that strengthens the family bond. May the grace of God help us to remain steadfast and committed in the choice of life we make considering its sacredness and God’ purpose.

Bible Reflections I 11.08.2022 - THURSDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time - Week 19

Readings 

            I - Ezk. 12: 1-12

           II - Mt. 18: 21-19: 1

FORGIVE AND YOU WILL BE FORGIVEN

Today’s Gospel passage is about the parable of the unforgiving servant. To the question raised by Peter how often he should forgive his brother, Jesus says this parable highlighting the fragility of man and the generous forgiveness of the Father. In the same way, Jesus invites us to extend forgiveness to the one who sin against us, countless times, imitating the mercy of the Father that we experience in our sinfulness.  

The bible says, “Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful” (Lk. 6: 36). In the prayer taught by Jesus, he gives, forgiveness of neighbour as precondition to obtain forgiveness for ourselves from God our Father. Think for a moment that if only we are to be treated by God according to the weightage of sin, none of us would dare to exist on the earth. His mercy sustains, supports and gives us hope for another new beginning with courage, hope and enthusiasm. Let us project the same to others who offend us to prove that we are the children of the merciful father.

Bible Reflections I 10.08.2022 - WEDNESDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time - Week 19

Readings 

            I - 2 Cor. 9: 6-10

           II - Jn. 12: 24-26

ST. LAWRENCE, DEACON (Feast)

The Church today celebrates the fest of St. Lawrence, the first of the seven deacons of Rome, appointed by St. Pope Sixtus II. St. Lawrence was known as the Archdeacon of Rome.  He was trusted so much by the Pope that he entrusted the treasures of the Church and the concern of the poor in Rome to St. Lawrence.  It was the time of persecution under the emperor Valerian.  Many ministers of the Church, the bishops, priests and deacons were executed and martyred.  Pope Sixtus II too was one among them to be martyred.  Aware of the threat that awaited the Church, St. Lawrence distributed the wealth and property of the Church to all the poor and needy there.  When the Roman authorities inquired for the wealth of the Church, St. Lawrence presented the poor people before the authorities. The infuriated authorities, tortured him putting him on a hot gridiron, heated with a blazing furnace and martyred him.  St. Lawrence joyfully endured for the sake of his faith in the Lord and Master Jesus Christ. 

St. Lawrence gave himself up completely in faith, for the sake of the Lord joyfully and generously, gaining the glory of the heavenly bliss.  In today’s Gospel passage Jesus says, “Unless a wheat of grain falls into the earth and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it bears much fruit”.  The martyrdom of St. Lawrence is an inspiration and model to us. Following Christ may cause many setbacks and sufferings but on enduring, we gain eternal life and other pick up inspiration and example.  May the saint inspire us to live our lives boldly for Christ and his principles.

Bible Reflections I 09.08.2022 - TUESDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time - Week 19

Readings 

            I - Ezk. 2: 8 - 3: 4

           II - Mt. 18: 1-5, 10, 12-14

GREATNESS VESTS IN HUMILITY

Today’s Gospel is an explanation to the question asked by the disciples to their Master Jesus Christ, “Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” Greatness vests in humility. Jesus exhorts them to become like Children. Becoming like children is becoming ‘nobody’. Women, children, the poor and the outcasts were considered to be ‘nobody’ in the Jewish society. Jesus conditions to humble; and commands to welcome and serve these ‘nobody’ who are oppressed and suppressed in almost all ways in the society. In this way one becomes great and befitting to enter the kingdom of God.  

Greatness vests in humility. The best example for humility is our Lord Jesus Christ himself. He took on the form of a slave (Phil. 2: 6-11) to save us from sin, death and slavery; and he had washed the feet of his disciples and had set us an example for humble service (Jn. 13: 1-17). Jesus does not expect us to do what he himself had not done when he was with us. Everything fall in line if we are humble. Let us strive to achieve our nobility in our humility. Let our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “Lord Jesus, teach me to be humble like you”.

Bible Reflections I 08.08.2022 - MONDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time - Week 19

Readings 

            I - Ezk. 1: 2-5, 24-28

           II - Mt. 17: 22-27

BE AN INSPIRATION AND NOT A SCANDAL

Today’s Gospel passage is about Jesus paying tax to the tax collectors. In reality, Jesus is not obliged to pay tax for only the foreigners are obliged to pay tax. Jesus is the Son of God and therefore not bound to pay temple tax as it is his father’s house. Still, Jesus pays tax so as to set an example and not to violate the rule unnecessarily for this purpose.  

The Gospel passage of the day invites us to inspire others through our exemplary living and not be a scandal to others through our reckless living. Action speaks louder than words. We aspire for greater things and remain incredible. The incredibility comes from our adherence to the existing rules and practices that prevail in our society for the smooth functioning. Let us not violate in the name of our position, power and status, instead oblige and set an example like Jesus.

Bible Reflections I 07.08.2022 - SUNDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time - Week 19

Readings 

            I - Wis. 18: 6-9

           II - Heb. 11: 1-2, 8-19

          III - Lk. 12: 32-48

THE ESSENTIAL 3S FOR ETERNAL LIVING

In today’s Gospel passage Jesus calls us “little flock” and gives a formula of 3S for inheriting eternal life: Seek the Kingdom of God, Save in heaven and Stay prepared. The Kingdom of God is where everyone recognise themselves to be the children of God, the Father and live in unity, equality, freedom, fraternity and Justice.  The responsibility and duty of every follower of Christ is to seek for God’s Kingdom wherever they are.  The second ‘S’ is about saving in heaven. With the material wealth that does not follow us after our life here on earth, we are called to serve and share with others so that we may have great treasure in heaven which can neither be plundered nor destroyed. And, finally the third ‘S’ is about staying prepared for the day of the Lord.  Even if the days are prolonged, we need not be disheartened but to stay prepared in hope.  The reward of all these 3S would be that the Lord would treat them royally on the day of his coming and take them to his paradise.

It is not easy to practice these 3S.  They are challenging and tiring, this why Jesus at the start of the passage says, “Fear not”, which means to be courageous in executing these 3S.  In the world that strive after Power, wealth, honour, publicity, popularity and status, Jesus exhorts to focus on the 3S that gain eternal life with the Lord. Let us seek the kingdom of God, save our treasure in heaven and stay prepared like the wise servant in the Gospel; and merit the royal treatment of the Lord when he comes.

Bible Reflections I 06.08.2022 - SATURDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time - Week 18

Readings 

            I - Dan. 7: 9-10, 13-14

           II - 2Pt. 1: 16-19

          III - Lk. 9: 29-36

TRANSFIGURATION OF THE LORD (Feast)

Today the Church celebrates the feast of the transfiguration of the Lord. In the Gospel passage of the day Peter, James and John witnesses the transfiguration of the Lord in all his glory, glowing in dazzling white. They saw Moses, the law giver and Elijah, the great prophet, speaking to Jesus. Appearance of Moses and Elijah with Jesus symbolized that Jesus was the compendium of Law and Prophesy and this was affirmed by the overshadowing of the cloud that symbolize the presence of God. Peter, James and John were given such a privilege of witnessing the transfiguration of the Lord with the mission embedded in the voice of the Father, “This my Son, the Beloved; listen to him”. The Father affirming the identity of Jesus exhorts to listen to him, the prophet par excellence; the liberator from our sin, slavery and suffering; and the New Law giver.  

Adhering to Jesus is following his Law of Love: love of God and love of neighbour in our lives. One cannot exist without the other. They are the two sides of the same coin. One cannot say “I love God and hate my neighbour” or vice versa. The feast of transfiguration invites us to transcend from all our selfishness, ego, pride, jealousy, hatred, envy, greed, avarice etc… and transform into persons of love, peace, joy, happiness, tenderness, compassion, empathy, gentleness, care, concern etc… in order to be transfigured, restoring the image and likeness of God in which we were created. Let our mind and heart resonate with this prayer during this day: “Lord Jesus, help me to listen to your voice.”

Bible Reflections I 05.08.2022 - FRIDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time: Week 18

Readings 

           I - Nahum 1: 15, 2:2, 3: 1-3, 6-7 

          II - Mt. 16: 24-28

Dedication of the Basilica of St. Mary Major

           

TAKE UP YOUR CROSS AND FOLLOW THE LORD 

In today’s Gospel passage Jesus exhorts to carry the cross if anyone wishes to follow him. It is worth suffering for the Lord because the path of the Lord marked us for us assures life eternal. In following our heart’s desire we might gain a bit of the glory of the world that is deceptive, at the cost of losing our own souls that are destined for heaven. Every one of our act will be examined and rewarded at the time of the Son of Man coming in glory.

Today the Church remembers the dedication of St. Mary Major Church, Rome, a great and gigantic church built in honour of Mother Mary. The site for the Church was chosen by the Blessed Mother herself through the miraculous snow fall at that site as she promised. The purpose of every church besides being a place of worship, glory, honour and praise to God, binds brothers and sisters in fraternity, unity and equality that assures of the eternal reward. Let us today in a particular way pray to our Blessed Mother to give us the courage to follow the Lord unbinding ourselves from the power, pomp and the pride of the world. May our Mother Mary lead us to Jesus her son, accompanying us in our life journey.

Bible Reflections I 04.08.2022 - THURSDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time: Week 18

Readings 

           I - Jer. 31: 31-34 

          II - Mt. 16: 13-23

St. John Mary Vianney (Memoria)

                  

LIVE BY THE WILL OF GOD 

Today’s Gospel passage is about the proclamation of Peter that Jesus is the Messiah, for which he is also called by Jesus as ‘blessed’. At the same time when Peter failed to set his mind on divine plan, he calls him ‘satan’. Peter was unable to accept that the Messiah has to suffer and hence he tries to forbid Jesus. Jesus, as Son of God has set an example to live by the divine plan of God no matter whatever be the cost.  

Today the Church celebrates the feast St. John Mary Vianney, the humble parish priest of Ars, a remote parish in France that contained only two hundred and thirty people. He took it as a holy will of God and through his life and example brought all people closer to God. Pope Benedict XVI, in his letter proclaiming the year of the priest have said, “In his time the Curé of Ars was able to transform the hearts and the lives of so many people because he enabled them to experience the Lord’s merciful love”. St. John Mary Vianney accomplish all in love, aligning himself to the will of God. The feast of St. John Mary Vianney is also celebrated as the feast of the parish priests. St. John Mary Vianney used to say, “The priesthood is the love of the heart of Jesus”. Let us today pray for all priests and for our parish priests in particular. May the saint inspire us to live by the will of God for us.

Bible Reflections I 03.08.2022 - WEDNESDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time: Week 18

Readings 

           I - Jer. 31: 1-7 

          II - Mt. 15: 21-28

              

NEVER GET TIRED OF PRAYING 

The Canaanites were outcasts and therefore the Jews abstained themselves from associating with the Canaanites. In today’s Gospel passage, the Canaanite woman comes before the Lord requesting for the healing of her daughter tortured by demon. Jesus tries to send her away reminding of her status: “it is not fair to take the children’s’ food and throw it to the dogs”. The outcasts were also considered as dogs. But she was persistent in persuading Jesus for the healing and finally Jesus did heal her daughter and appreciates her faith saying, “Woman great is your faith! Let it be done for you as you wish”.

The three essential elements for prayer are: courage, faith and perseverance. Courage to face the Lord with the conviction that we are the children of God. Jesus says that faith can move even mountains (Mt. 17: 20-21). We should never become tired of praying (Col. 4: 2) but keep persevering with faith. If prayer requests are unanswered, examine your courage to stand before the Lord, faith and perseverance. Remember at all times that we are the children of God redeemed by the precious blood of Jesus Christ.

Bible Reflections I 02.08.2022 - TUESDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time: Week 18

Readings 

           I - Jer. 30: 1-2, 12-15, 18-22 

          II - Mt. 14: 22-36

            

RECOGNISE AND FIX YOUR GAZE ON THE LORD

Today’s Gospel passage is about Jesus walking on the water. The terrified disciples in the boat battered by the waves, in fear and fright failed to discover Jesus though he was found to be walking towards them on water. Concentration on the strong wind shook the faith of Peter, walking on the water at the Lord’s command and so he began to sink. Jesus reaching out his hand to Peter asked him, “Why do you doubt?” In fear, the disciples failed to recognise Jesus and Peter began to doubt Jesus.

Faced with problems only two things can happen: either we may fail to recognise the presence of Jesus with us; or focus on our problem than on fixing our gaze on God. "Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous be shaken” (Ps. 55:22). "Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God” (Phil. 4:6). Recognise the presence of God and fix your gaze on him for a liberated living. Let our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “Lord Jesus, help me to look up to you in faith all times in my life”.

Bible Reflections I 01.08.2022 - MONDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time: Week 18

Readings 

           I - Jer. 28: 1-17 

          II - Mt. 14: 13-21

                  

REFLECT JESUS

Today’s Gospel passage is about the multiplication of five loaves and two fish. Jesus would not wish to send the crowd back to their home hungry. He does not perform a one man show working a miracle in satisfying the hunger of the crowd. He instead, includes human concern and cooperation in feeding the crowd. He blesses the generosity of the crowd that offered five loaves and two fish to feed the crowd of five thousand men alone besides the women and children; and with the remnant of twelve basket full of the broken pieces.  

We have to imbibe the vibes of the heart of Jesus in order to be empathetic, understanding, sympathetic, kind, compassionate and generous towards the needy and the suffering. In the crowd that is crazy for ‘likes’ on posing the misery of the suffering over the social network media, become crazy in living your lives modelled after our Master Jesus Christ in generosity and love. Make a difference as Christians and the followers of Christ wherever you are in reflecting the heart of Jesus. Let our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “Lord Jesus, make my heart like that of yours”.

Bible Reflections I 31.07.2022 - SUNDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time: Week 18

Readings 

           I - Eccl. 1: 2, 2: 21-23 

          II - Col. 3: 1-5, 9-11  

         III - Lk. 12: 13-21

                  

STORE UP YOUR TREASURE IN HEAVEN

Chasing after the wealth of the world that does not follow us after our life here on the earth is vanities of all vanities says the preacher of wisdom in the first reading. In the second reading, St. Paul in his letter to the Colossians exhorts the people of God to set their mind and seek the things of above, putting to death what is earthly in them. The two readings are substantiated by the Gospel passage. At the time of Jesus, the religious leaders resolved the legal questions. And so, someone in the crowd approaches Jesus for the settlement of the inheritance with his brother. Jesus take this chance to explain about true wealth for which one has to aspire and work for, through the parable of the rich fool who rejoiced at the rich harvest and planned to build larger barns to store the grain and that very night he was about to die. We prepare so much for our earthly living but through the parable Jesus invites to examine how prepared are we to inherit eternal life.  

We care and toil hard for the transitory life missing our focus from the true wealth, the eternal life with God in Paradise. We are concerned about our cozy and comfortable living here on the earth that is perishable deviating from the true wealth in Christ that beckons for a living bound by the Law of Love. Walking an extra mile for Christ is wealth that worth paradise. Let the readings of the day help us to introspect how prepared are we to inherit the eternal life with God. May our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “Lord Jesus, help us to fix our hearts and minds on the heavenly riches”.

Bible Reflections I 30.07.2022 - SATURDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time - Week 17

Readings:  

       I - Jer. 26: 11-16, 24

      II - Mt. 14: 1-12

LISTEN TO GOD, STAND FOR GOD

In the Gospel passage today, John the Baptist courageously admonishes the unlawful act of King Herod, living with his brother’s wife. His words were powerful, piercing, disturbing and deterring both Herod and Herodias. Herodias plotted so well that she had the head of John the Baptist on the platter through her daughter.  

We are children of God and whenever we are astray, God calls us back on the right the right track through the Scripture, conscience, persons, signs and events. His voice is never compromising, appealing or pacifying but disturbing, contradicting, challenging and conquering. We have only two options before us, either to give heed and align our ways and inherit eternal life or rationalize and reject his words and impend for eternal destruction. If God chooses us to be His mouth piece, let us courageously do so with no fear of people who can kill the body but are unable to kill the soul. May our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “Lord Jesus, make me a courageous messenger of the truth”

Bible Reflections I 29.07.2022 - FRIDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time - Week 17

Readings: I - Jer. 26: 1-9

                II - Jn. 11: 19-27

St. Martha (Memoria)

LOVE THE LORD WHO LOVES YOU

Today the Church remembers St. Martha, the friend of Jesus and sister of Mary and Lazarus. Jesus as the friend, besides being a guest, sharing their hospitality, love and joy, goes to Bethany to share in the suffering of the Martha and Mary at the loss of their brother Lazarus. Martha beholding the Master on the way confidently says, “Lord if you had been here, my brother would not have died” and affirms her trust saying, “But even now I know that God will give you whatever you ask of Him” and so was it done to her.        

In the trending world of change and impermanency God’s love alone is strong and constant as the Scripture says, “I have loved you with an everlasting love” (Jer. 31:3). All we need to do is to get connected with Jesus through our prayer. In times of grief, pain, trials, temptations, discouragement, betrayal, sorrows and weakness, turn to Jesus, an understanding friend closer to us than the very air we breathe. Let us resolve to accept the forever friendship of Jesus as we celebrate the feast day of his friend Martha who served him with much love and care.

Bible Reflections I 28.07.2022 - THURSDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time - Week 17

Readings: I - Jer. 18: 1-6

      II - Mt. 13: 47-53

St. Alphonsa (Memorial)

LET OUR LIFE INSPIRE OTHERS

The Gospel passage of the day contains a comparison and an obligation. The kingdom of heaven is compared to a net that is thrown into the sea. It collects both the good and the bad fish. The good ones are stored in the container and the bad ones are thrown away. Similarly, on that final day of judgment, the humanity will be judged on the basis of love and those who are worthy would inherit the kingdom of God. Every scribe who considered himself to be the custodian of law is supposed to match the old and new and make the rules easy for people to follow for the crux of the old and new law is love. Instead they complicated the law and made the lives of ordinary people weighing and tiring.  

We are trained in so many ways to practice the preaching of the Gospel: love through bible reading, sermons, preaching, retreat, prayer and spiritual and corporal practices. Examine whether all these help us to be more humane and loving so that others too copy and aspire for a life based on love. May the reading also help us to introspect the credibility of our life based on love so that we may be gather for God on the day of final judgment. Today the Church celebrates the feast of St. Alphonsa, the first India woman saint who suffered much because she also loved much and today she enjoys the crown of eternal glory in Paradise. Let St. Alphonsa inspire to live a life based on love.

Bible Reflections I 27.07.2022 - WEDNESDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time - Week 17

Readings: I - Jer. 18: 1-6

                II - Mt. 13: 47-53

GIVE UP IN ORDER TO GAIN

In today’s Gospel passage Jesus compares the kingdom of heaven to the treasure hidden in the field and the fine pearls. The man who found the treasure hidden in the field sells all that he has to buy that field. But the merchant goes in search of fine peals and on finding the same sells all that he has, to buy the pearls. The finding of the former is accidental while that of the latter is incidental. But one thing that was common in both of them was that sold everything they had so as to acquire that what was precious and priceless. They were ready to forego anything but to possess that what mattered everything to them.

‘Exchange offer’ is one of the common marketing tactics that is followed for sale promotion. We are children of God redeemed by the precious blood of Jesus Christ. As Christians we are called to be sign of bearer of God’s love to the world. We cannot let ourselves to be influenced by the world instead as the bible exhorts, we must let God transform us into new persons (Rom. 12:2) like lamps lit on the mountain top. In this process we may have to give up all that we are and all that we have so as to gain the eternal joy, the Paradise. Let our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “Lord Jesus, give me the courage to give up for the sake of your love”

Bible Reflections I 26.07.2022 - TUESDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time - Week 17

Readings: I - Jer. 14: 17-22

          II - Mt. 13: 16-43

St. Joachim and St. Anne, Parents of the Virgin Mary (Memorial)

  

GRANDPARENTS DAY

Today the Church gratefully and joyfully celebrates the feast of St. Joachim and St. Anne, the parents of our Blessed Mother Mary and the grandparents of our Lord Jesus Christ. The feast is celebrated as World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly, from last year as introduced by Pope Francis in January, 2021. St. Joachim and St. Anne in their faithfulness to God and through their righteous deeds were chosen to be the parents of the Mother of God. If Mother Mary is blessed among all women, blessed too should have been the parents who brought her up to the extent of finding favour in the eyes of the Lord befitting to bring forth the long awaited Messiah, the Saviour into the world.

We are living in a painful reality of children discarding their own parents in old age homes or abandoning them to the caretakers, confining them to the four walls of a room in the house or still to the worse, some who are so cruel to chase them out of their homes without a second thought of their sustenance or maintenance at their age of helplessness. The wealth, honour, glory and pride that is beheld are inheritance from the ancestors; and this can neither be denied nor argued against. On the other hand there are children who them with dignity, kindness and love. Honouring the parents begets the blessings of the Lord (Ex. 20:12) for the Scripture exhorts and promises, “Honour your father and your mother, as the Lord your God commanded you, so that your days may be long and that it may go well with you in the land that the Lord your God is giving you (Deu 5:16). Respecting parents therefore is the command of the Lord (Lev. 19:3) that ultimately results in respecting the grandparents as well. “Grandparents have the crowning glory of life: grandchildren. And it’s only proper for children to take pride in their parents” (Pro. 17:6). 

Task: Express your love and affection towards your grandparents wishing them, and through your acts of kindness and gestures of love.

Prayer: “Dear God, Bless my grandparents”.

Bible Reflections I 25.07.2022 - MONDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time: Week 17

Readings 

           I - 2 Cor. 4: 7-15

          II - Mt. 20: 20-28

                                    

FEAST OF ST. JAMES, THE APOSTLE

In the Gospel reading of the day, the mother of James and John asks Jesus to make her son sit at the right and left side of the Master in his kingdom. To the disciples Jesus about his style of ‘servant leadership’ and instructs that their greatness is in serving. The first reading of the day describes about the role of discipleship and the difficulties to be endured on this accord. Disciples are like a clay jar containing the treasure of the Gospel. They are called to manifest the life of Jesus in their mortal flesh. Because of which they have to endure affliction, persecution and destruction but they can neither be struck down nor destroyed, standing study in bearing witness to the life of Jesus in them.  

Today the Church celebrates the feast of St. James, the apostle. James and John were the first disciples called by Jesus to follow him when they were in a boat with their father Zebedee, preparing their nets (Mt. 4: 21-22, Mk. 1: 19-20). They were nicknamed as ‘Sons of thunder’ (Mt. 3: 17) for their fiery temperament. James was one among the three (Peter and John) to be present during the important moments of Jesus: his transfiguration (Mt. 17: 1-13) and raising of Jairus daughter (Mk. 5: 21-43). He was the first bishop of Jerusalem. He was an important spokesperson at the council of Jerusalem regarding Paul’s mission to the Gentiles (Acts. 15: 13). In his epistle, St. James has stressed about precepts pertaining to faith and good works, true wisdom is from God, control over tongue and about the anointing of the sick. James went as a missionary to Spain and preached the Gospel there. When he returned from Spain to Jerusalem, he was captured and beheaded by the sword. He was the first apostle to die as a martyr. His remains were taken to Compostela in Northern Spain by his followers and a chapel was constructed above the same. The new cathedral was built in the 12th century. St. James is the patron saint of Spain. May the life of the saint inspire us to aspire for a credible Christian living witnessing to the life of Christ as the readings of the day exhorts. Let our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “St. James, Pray for us”.

Bible Reflections I 24.07.2022 - SUNDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time: Week 17

Readings 

           I - Gen. 18: 20-32

          II - Col. 2: 12-14

         III - Lk. 11: 1-13 

                           

LORD, TEACH US TO PRAY

The crux of the readings of the day are persistence and perseverance in prayer. Persistence is the resoluteness even at the face of opposition and obstacles. Perseverance is steadfastness in doing something. Both are essential to achieve and arrive at what one desires. Persistence and perseverance are the most important requisites of prayer. In the first reading Abraham is persistent and persevering in pleading God for Sodom and Gomorrah because he wanted to save the people from destruction. In the Gospel passage, through the parable Jesus explains that the friend lends bread because of the persistent pleading of his friend that was bothering him so much though personally he did not have the intention of helping his friend in need. Giving this parable, Jesus exhorts the children of God to persevere in the persistent “ask-seek-knock” trusting in the providence of God.

God cannot be conditioned by our prayers. He is all good and gives only that what is good and best for his people whether they are praying or not praying. Then why should we pray? We should of course keep asking, seeking and knocking not only for ourselves but also for others as did Abraham, like children pleading to their fathers. And we have to be persevering in our persistence with our pleadings and petitions in faith that God would certainly provide if they are going to benefit us and the others for whom we are praying. Let us today take some time to examine the quality of our prayer and keep repeating in the silence of our hearts: “Lord, Teach us to pray”

Bible Reflections I 23.07.2022 - SATURDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time: Week 16

Readings 

           I - Jer. 7: 1-11

          II - Mt. 13: 24-30 

                           

NURTURE THE GODLY QUALITIES 

Today’s Gospel passage is about the parable of the wheat and the weeds. Jesus compares the kingdom of heaven to a sower who sowed wheat in his fields and an enemy who sowed the weeds among them. God permits both, the wheat and the weed to exist until the day of harvest in order to save the wheat. On the day of harvest, the wheat will be collected in the barn and the weeds will be bundled to be burnt.  

We are created in the image and likeness of God (Gen. 1: 27). We are from God and God has sown in our hearts the seeds of love, peace, joy, kindness, gentleness, generosity, empathy and righteousness. We are often influenced by the values of the world around us viz. hatred, jealousy, selfishness, greed, cunningness, anger and pride. We become what we nurture. If we nurture the virtues, on the day of harvest, we will be gathered for eternal life in God and if not, we will end for eternal damnation like those weeds thrown into the fire. Our choice determines our eternal inheritance. Nurture virtues and grow up as children of God. Let our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “Lord Jesus, help me to nurture the Godly qualities present in me”.

Bible Reflections I 22.07.2022 - FRIDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time: Week 16

Readings 

           I - 2 Cor. 5:14-17

          II - Jh. 20: 1-2, 11-18 

                           

FEAT OF ST. MARY MAGDALENE (Feast)

Today the Church celebrates the feast of St. Mary Magdalene, the ardent apostle, daring disciple and the passionate follower of Jesus Christ. All the four Gospels speak of Mary Magdalene (Mt. 26: 6-13, Mk. 14: 3-9, Lk. 7: 36-50 and Jn. 12: 1-8). From all these four Gospels we infer that Mary Magdalene was a sinful woman who had bad reputation in the society, she anointed the feet of Jesus with sweet smelling perfume and she was the sister of Martha and Lazarus. Before the crowd of men in Simon’s house, Mary dared to walk up to Jesus, anointed his feet with costly ointment, untied her hair before a band of men which no Jewish woman would dare to do , to wipe the feet of Jesus and continued kissing his feet as an act of her repentance for her sins and a desire for a new life in him. Jesus permitted or rather uninterrupted Mary Magdalene despite inheriting the gossip of the crowd around, for Jesus grasped the depth of her repentance and dense of her love in that act of anointing. Jesus defended Mary Magdalene and rewarded her act saying, “Truly I tell you, wherever this good news is proclaimed in the world, what she has done will be told in remembrance of her” (Mt. 26: 13).  

Mary Magdalene followed Jesus faithfully even when all his disciples deserted him during the crucial moment of his passion, death and resurrection. Along with the mother of Jesus, Mary Magdalene accompanied Jesus in his journey up till Calvary. As today’s Gospel reading says, early in the morning while it was still dark she came to the tomb to anoint Jesus. There she beholds the risen Lord, the privilege of being the first witness to the resurrection. The greatest of all rewards by the Master whom she loved and served so much. Let us examine the quality of our love for the Lord in the light of the love of Mary Magdalene. Examine the expressions of our love for our Master. It should be expressed not merely in our multiplicity of words in prayer but in the acts of charity towards our neighbour. May our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “Lord Jesus, touch my heart and transform my life unto your will for me”

Bible Reflections I 21.07.2022 - THURSDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time: Week 16

Readings 

           I - Jer. 2:1-3, 7-8, 12-13

          II - Mt. 13: 10-17

        

Today’s Gospel passage is an invitation to look beyond seeing and listen beyond hearing so that we may not miss the revelation of God in the realities of life. Not all the people around Jesus discovered the Messiah in him, the promised one for whom they waited so long. The eyes that looked, ears that listened and the heart that understood were converted unto the ways of God.

We read and hear the Word of God, partake in the eucharistic celebrations, get the guidance of elderly and wise people, intervened by the edifying presence of friends and the like but still we often fail to look beyond seeing and listen beyond hearing. It is here we too like those people miss the God who comes, comes and ever comes. Be alert and become attentive to capture the signals of God for a better and noble living. Let our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: "Lord Jesus, help me to attentive to your words and deeds in my life"

Bible Reflections I 20.07.2022 - WEDNESDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time: Week 16

Readings 

           I - Jer. 1:1, 4-1

          II - Mt. 13: 1-9 

                           

BE RECEPTIVE TO THE WORD OF GOD 

Today’s Gospel passage is on the parable of the sower.  The sower sowed the seeds. The seeds fell on the path, rocky ground, amidst thorny bush and good soil.  The seeds that fell on the good soil alone yielded thirty, sixty and hundredfold.

The crux of the Gospel passage of the day is our receptiveness to the Word of God. How disposed are we to the Word of God to take root in us so as to yield a hundredfold?  The seeds fell on the path were eaten up by the birds, similarly, the heart that is distracted about many things may not be able to grasp the Word of God.  The seeds fell on the rocky ground were burnt with the rising of the sun, and this tantamount to a heart that is hardened can seldom hope for a new life to spring forth.  The seeds that fell amidst the thorny bush were chocked by the thorns, in the same way, a heart that is proud is also incredulous to accept or welcome anything.  Only an open and disposed heart is receptive to the Word of God like the good soil that can yield thirty, sixty and hundredfold accordingly.  

Task: Take some quite moments to analyse if we are receptive to the Word of God? If not, try to find out the reason for the same and rectify them. 

Prayer: “Lord Jesus, help me to be open and obedient to your Words”

Bible Reflections I 19.07.2022 - TUESDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time: Week 16

Readings 

           I - Mic. 7: 14-15, 18-20

          II - Mt. 12: 46-50 

                           

TAKE UP THE CHALLENGE AND INHERIT THE PRIVILEGE 

In today’s Gospel passage Jesus shows us the way to become a member of his family. When he was preaching, his mother and brothers waited outside, asking to speak to him. When the message was passed on to Jesus, Jesus stretched out his hand towards his disciples and said, “Here are my mother and my brothers! For whoever does the will of my Father in heaven is my brother and sister and mother”. Jesus prescribes a higher way of relationship than mere physical one. In both the ways, Mary is his mother: in physical and in submitting herself to the will of the Father in heaven.

If we adhere to the Word of God and submit to the same we too are his mother, brothers and sisters. It is challenge and a privilege. It is a challenge because the Word of God may demand us to go against our own wills, whims and fancies. It is privilege because we become a member of God’s family. Take us the challenge and inherit the privilege. Let our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “Lord Jesus, help me to seek and accomplish your will in my life”