Bible Reflections I 26.07.2023 - WEDNESDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time: Week 16

Readings  

           I - Ex. 16: 1-5, 9-15

           II - Mt. 13: 1-9

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

  

GRANDPARENTS DAY

Today the Church gratefully and joyfully remembers and celebrates 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.

Bible Reflections I 25.07.2023 - TUESDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time: Week 16

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 temper. 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, he 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 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 24.07.2023 - MONDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time: Week 16

Readings

            I - Ex. 14: 5-18

           II - Mt. 12: 38-42

BE OPEN TO THE GRACE OF GOD

The Scribes and the Pharisees refused to accept Jesus as the Son of God though all prophesies were fulfilled in His coming.  It was a willful neglect and they asked for a sign to believe in Him. Jesus gave no sign to them instead said that on the day of judgment people of Nineveh and the queen of Sheba would rise up and condemn them.   The people of Nineveh believed in the prophesy of Prophet Jonah; and the people of Nineveh and the animals alike fasted and covered themselves with ashes as a sign of repentance and turned from their evil ways.  The queen of Sheba came from afar to testify and to listen to the Wisdom of Solomon. Jesus was the Son of God and Wisdom himself, but in their pride and arrogance of heart, the Scribes and Pharisees refused to behold, recognise, acknowledge and accept Jesus.  

Jesus praises the openness of mind and heart of the people of Nineveh and the Queen of Sheba unlike the learned and the clever religious leaders of his time.  A bottle cannot be filled in two cases viz. when it is closed tight with the lid and when the bottle is already too full.  When we neglect to seek God we neglect to recognise His graces and blessings as well.  Similarly, when we are too full of self-righteousness, pride, selfishness, egoistic and arrogance the grace of God can not touch and transform us. Let us today ask God to help us to be open to His graces and blessings as His beloved children in our Lord Jesus Christ for a transformed witnessing life.

Bible Reflections I 23.07.2023 - SUNDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time: Week 16

Readings

             I - Wis. 12: 13, 16-19

            II - Rom. 8: 26-27

           III - Mt. 13: 24-43

CHOOSE LIFE, CHOOSE BLESSINGS 

The Gospel passage in on the parable of the weeds among the wheat.  God sows the wheat, the values befitting the Kingdom and the evil one sows the weeds, the vices that lead to destruction.  God allows both the wheat and the weeds to grow together until the day of harvest and at the time of harvest, the weeds are bundled and burnt; and the wheat is gathered in the barn. 

We are free children of God.  He does not impose anything upon us but gives us the choice with an instruction, “I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses.  Choose life so that you and your descendants may live (Deu. 30: 19). God sows the seeds of values of the Kingdom viz. the fear of God, love, peace, joy, happiness, kindness, gentleness, forbearance, tolerance, unity and forgiveness.  The evil one sows the seeds of vices viz. hatred, jealousy, division, arrogance, avarice, selfishness, pride, anger, greed and envy. If we choose the values of the Kingdom we will be gathered for life eternal or otherwise we will be doomed to be eternally destroyed.  Choose life and choose God’s blessings.

Bible Reflections I 22.07.2023 - SATURDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time: Week 15

Readings

            I - Song of Songs 3: 1-4

           II - Jn. 20:1-2, 11-18.

  

MARY MAGDALENE, DISCIPLE OF THE LORD (Feast)

Today the Church celebrates the feast of St. Mary Magdalene, the passionate follower and ardent disciple of Jesus and the one time adulteress woman. In the feast of St. Mary Magdalene we celebrate the caring and credible love of Jesus that is so powerful, benevolent and emancipating. The three E’s that transformed the life of Mary of Magdala are: Encounter, Encouragement and Empowerment. Jesus Encounters Mary Magdalene when the drudgerous crowd drags her to Jesus for punishment. Jesus saves her from the clutches of the self-righteous menfolk saying, “Let anyone among you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her”. When everyone leaves without stoning, Jesus encourages her saying, “Neither do I condemn you. Go your way, and from now on do not sin again” (Jh. 8:11) and thereby infuses in her the life assuring hope and an absolute feeling of being forgiven. Finally Jesus empowers her making her the witness of his resurrection. Witness of women wear out to be no witness at all in the male dominated patriarchal society of the Jews. Jesus counteracts this culture and appears first to Mary Magdalene and makes her the witness of his resurrection for great was her love for Jesus, her Lord, Master and Teacher. In the Gospel passage today, Jesus just calls her “Mary” and instantly she responds saying “Rabbouni” unlike his disciples who had long conversation with Jesus on their way to Emmaus and yet failed to recognise Jesus until he broke the bread with them (Lk. 24: 13-35).

In the world of today, where love is downsized to mere utility and payback policy, we as Christians, are called to reflect this love of Jesus that is liberating, empowering, enriching, encouraging, healing and forgiving. In this way we can like Jesus touch and transform the lives of people around us. With our little acts of charity we can win the whole world for Jesus. Let the Feast of Mary Magdalene make us like her the witnesses of the love of Jesus allowing ourselves to be encountered, encouraged and empowered by the love of Jesus our Lord and our Master.

Bible Reflections I 21.07.2023 - FRIDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time: Week 15

Readings 

           I - Ex. 11: 10-12:14

          II - Mt. 12: 1 - 8 

 ST. LAWRENCE OF BRINDISI

In today’s Gospel passage, the hungry disciples pluck ears of corn to eat and this was accused by the Pharisees as violation of Sabbath. Jesus defends his disciples quoting the violation done by David and his companions; and the priests in the temple. Jesus picks up this opportunity to enlighten the Pharisees on the truth about Temple, Sabbath and Sacrifice. Temple signifies the presence of God and the purpose of Sabbath was to abstain from work so as to be present to the Lord in prayer and worship. The Pharisees made Sabbath a burden with so many rules and thereby making the life of the common man difficult and cumbersome. Jesus intervenes and educates that the best offering in which God delights is mercy and compassion. 

We are no different from the Pharisees. We wish to be meticulous in our rituals, rubrics, rules and traditions. Days of fasting, pilgrimage, penance and offering take precedence in our life than mercy, compassion and concern for the suffering neighbour. Today’s Gospel passage is an invitation to examine our acts of piety whether they are backed by concern for humanity, if not, convert your practices unto the demands of the teachings of the Gospel.

Bible Reflections I 20.07.2023 - THURSDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time: Week 15

Readings  

           I - Ex. 3: 13-20

          II - Mt. 11: 28-30

SAINT APOLLINARIUS

The In today’s Gospel passage Jesus uses four verbs viz., come, give, take and learn.  Jesus invites all who are heavily burdened to come him in order to give them the rest that he alone can give. He exhorts to take upon his yoke which is nothing but faith in him.  Jesus poses himself as model and encourages to learn from him, his gentleness and humility.      

Apollinaris was born in Antioch, in modern-day Turkey. It’s possible that while in Antioch, Apollinaris was converted to the faith by Saint Peter, or even earlier by Jesus Himself, being one of the seventy-two sent out on mission by Jesus. Regardless, tradition states that Saint Peter ordained Apollinaris as a bishop and sent him to Ravenna to serve as that city’s first bishop.  When Bishop Apollinaris arrived in Ravenna and began to preach the Gospel of Jesus Christ, many perceived Christianity as a direct threat to their way of life and beliefs. People who opposed him beat him and drove him out of the city. Tradition holds that he was found close to death on the seashore, where fellow Christians rescued and hid him.  Despite this persecution and determined to complete his mission, Bishop Apollinaris returned to Ravenna. This time, he was captured, forced to walk on burning coals, and expelled from the city once again. Undeterred from converting the people of Ravenna, Bishop Apollinaris returned for a third time, only to face great resistance again. This time, it is said that he was cut with knives and had scalding water poured on his wounds. After his persistent preaching of the Gospel, his abusers silenced him by beating his mouth with rocks. After several days chained in a dungeon, he was not only ejected from the city again, but also placed on a ship to Greece, effectively ridding the citizens of Ravenna of him. After being dragged out of the city a fourth time, Apollinaris was beaten in Classis, just south of Ravenna, and again left for dead. May the life of St. Apollinaris inspire us to imbibe the exhortations of Jesus in the Gospel passage of the day.

Bible Reflections I 19.07.2023 - WEDNESDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time: Week 15

Readings  

           I - Ex. 3: 1-6, 9-12

          II - Mt. 11: 25-27

ST. MACRINA memory 

BE SIMPLE AND BECOME BLESSED 

The Pharisees, the Sadducees, the Chief Priest and the Scribes were familiar with the law and the prophecy; and were fanatic in the practice of the religion. They were considered to be the custodians of their religion and were men of high repute and standing. Still in their stubbornness of heart, self-righteousness, pride and prejudice they refused to accept Jesus as Messiah, the Promised one prophesied by the prophets.

The Gospel passage today does not condemn the learned, the intelligent or the persons of repute instead Jesus highlights on the disposition and openness of the heart in beholding the truth as it comes. In the ordinary walk of life, people wish for the truth that is appealing, pleasing, and convenient but never contradicting, combating or conflicting their perspectives and ideologies. People never desire for the truth that hurts and disturbs. Only those people who are open to the truth with the simplicity and humility of heart can be drawn by the gracious will of God to be His instruments, all for His greater glory. Let us yield ourselves unto to the truth as we encounter, for God is Truth.

Bible Reflections I 18.07.2023 - TUESDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time: Week 15

Readings

            I - Ex. 2: 1-15a

           II - Mt. 11: 20-24

COUNT YOUR BLESSINGS

In the Gospel passage today, Jesus reproaches Chorazin, Bethsaida and Capernaum because they failed to recognise the Messiah in their midst in spite of his healing, preaching, raising of the dead, deriving of he demons and forgiving the sinners. They had eyes but they did not see and they had ears but they did not hear (Mk. 8:18). Their hearts were hardened and they refused to recognise and resisted to repent, though their eyes beheld the Messiah unlike the cities viz. Tyre, Sidon and Sodom.   

Often times we are similar to the cities Chorazin, Bethsaida and Capernaum. We are blessed with countless blessing. We had bee victorious in so many struggles, we can testify to a number of miracles we experienced in our lives, we can vouch for His presence that preserved, prevented and protected us from despair, depression, fear, discouragement, worries and anxieties, still at the crucial time of testing we are tempted to cry out, “God where are you?”. Try to count the blessings at those moments raising the hearts in thanksgiving.

Bible Reflections I 17.07.2023 - MONDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time: Week 15

Readings

            I - Ex. 1:8-14, 22

           II - Mt. 10: 34-11:1

CHOOSE LIFE ETERNAL

Siding for one is siding against the other. Since the life and Teaching of Jesus counters and contradicts the principles of the World there is always tension, division and strife in the world because of Jesus and it would be continued even in the lives of those who wish to follow him.  In this pursuit, the disciple of Jesus may have to be against their own parents, friends and beloved ones and lose their relationship.  The one who endures this loss for the sake of Jesus is a worthy disciple and his/her reward will be great in heaven.

We have only two options before us: First, to lead our lives according to the standards set by the world and the second, to align our lives as per the teachings of Jesus. Choosing the first option, we may be hailed by this world but lose life eternal that is bliss.  Choosing the second option, we may be abandoned, hated and marginalised by all but gain life eternal that is bliss. The choice is ours.

Bible Reflections I 16.07.2023 - SUNDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time: Week 15

Readings 

            I - Is. 55: 10-11

           II - Rom. 8: 18-23

          III - Mt. 13: 1-23                  

THE SOWER AND THE SEED

Today’s Gospel passage is about the parable of the sower and the seed. It’s about the seed and the yield that depends on the receptiveness of the soil it fell upon. Though the sower and the seed were identical yet the yield varied with the conduciveness of the soil. Some fell on the path, while some on the rock, still others amidst the thorns and thistles and the seed that fell on the good soil produced a hundred fold.

Based on the parable, people can be divided into four types: the hearers, the impetuous, the opportunists and the doers. Hearers can be compared to the seed that fell on the path. This type of people just hear the Word of God and just leave it in the air without giving a second thought. They can be easily distracted. The impetuous are quick to respond but without standing steadfast in the same. These people can give up easily. The opportunists understand well but waver in their steadfastness. These people pick up what is pleasing and give up all that is demanding. They follow the Word at their own convenience. The doers accomplish every Word of the Lord and bear witness to Him at all times. They yield a hundred fold giving glory to the Lord. To which category to do belong? Stand by the Word of God and bear witness to the same thereby making our life resolute, meaningful, and purposeful.

Bible Reflections I 15.07.2023 - SATURDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time: Week 14

Readings  

             I - Gen. 49: 29-31, 33; 50: 15-26 

            II - Mt.10: 24-33

 STAND FOR THE TRUTH

In the Gospel passage today Jesus motivates and inspires his disciples for the challenging and courageous entrusted mission ahead. He encourages them to stand up for the truth that can never be hidden or covered. He emboldens them to face suffering in the pursuit of the same assuring them of the Father’s care and love even in their minutest detail.  

People remain either silent or indifferent in the matters concerning the truth for the fear of suffering, torture, threat, persecution, problems, loss of reputation and death. Remember, our life on is transitory and it perishes for life eternal, beholding the bliss of God who cares and defends us. Let this truth enlighten and empower us to courageously combat those who kill the body and cannot kill the soul. Follow the way of Jesus, stand up for the truth and inherit life eternal, for Jesus says, “I am the way, the truth and the life” (Jn. 14:6).

Bible Reflections I 14.07.2023 - FRIDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time: Week 14

Readings 

         I - Gen. 46: 1-7, 28-30 

     II - Mt.10: 16-23

CONQUER THE WORLD

In the Gospel passage today Jesus speaks about the suffering that his followers have to encounter and endure in the pursuit of living his command.  Jesus uses a metaphor to describe the same, “I am sending you out like sheep into the midst of wolves”, a dangerous pursuit indeed.  He instructs his followers prescribing a guideline, to be wise as serpents and innocent as doves and assures them of his presence in their suffering on his accord.  

The values of the world may seem to overpower the values of the Gospel, but can never prevail over the Gospel values.  There are only two options, either to compromise with the world order or to contradict and conquer the same.  We are chosen to topple the world order that “prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour” (Pt. 5:8). It is challenging, dangerous and daring. To tread in the path of our Master and Lord Jesus Christ is not impossible but possible, it is demanding but worthwhile, we may be battered but never defeated. It is road less travelled, reserved for the followers of Jesus who dare insults, persecution, suffering and death.  Let us fight the battle with prudence and innocence standing on the powerful presence and assuring promises of Jesus, for he says, “Take courage; I have conquered the world” (Jn. 16:33).

Bible Reflections I 13.07.2023 - THURSDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time: Week 14

Readings

             I - Gen. 44: 18-21, 23b-29; 45: 1-5

     II - Mt.10: 7-15

WE ARE CALLED AND EMPOWERED 

To the simple men of Galilee, his beloved disciples, weak and imperfect as they were, Jesus entrusts the great ministry of the Kingdom of God through healing, curing, cleansing and casting out demons.  Jesus shares his power and ministry with ones whom the world considers weak and fragile so that his power may be revealed in them.  

God’s ways are mysterious. God purposely chooses what the world considers as weak and nonsense in order to shame the wise and the powerful (1Cor. 1:27).  Therefore stop concentrating on the weakness and start magnifying the power, mercy, grace and works of the Lord so that we too can accomplish the purpose for which Christ Jesus has chosen us and make our life purposeful and meaningful.

Bible Reflections I 12.07.2023 - WEDNESDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time: Week 14

Readings

              I - Gen. 41: 55-57, 42:5-7, 17-24

     II - Mt.10: 1-7

THE LORD CALLS AND EMPOWERS 

Jesus according to the Gospel passage of the day commissions his mission to his team of twelve disciples, the personalities in the combination of fishermen, learned, tax collector, power mongers, zealot and the ignorant.  The rabbis of the time would’ve definitely ridiculed Jesus on the choice of his disciples.  With this team of less or no caliber according to the human standards, Jesus establishes and entrusts the Church.  Jesus looked at them not from human perspective but he looked at their heart and intentions intently.  “The Lord doesn’t see things the way you see them. People judge by outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart” (1Sam. 16:7). 

We are part of that Church, unworthy as we are but chosen by God and entrusted with this ministry when we were baptized. We need accomplish great things but even a trifle with good will and noble intention like the poor widow who gave her mite. A little deed can infuse hope and courage and; a kind gesture can comfort and console; and the right word can stir and heal.  Let us not aspire for great accomplishments rather be the disciples of Jesus in our own way effecting the kingdom of heaven wherever we are, promoting love, peace, joy, happiness and hope.  May our heart and mind resonate with this prayer: ‘Lord make me an instrument of your love, peace and joy’

Bible Reflections I 11.07.2023 - TUESDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time: Week 14

Readings

              I - Gen. 32: 22-32

      II - Mt.9: 32-37

MAKE YOUR LIFE PURPOSEFUL

According to the Gospel passage today, a dumb demoniac was brought to Jesus. Jesus casted out the demon and the dumb man spoke. The common crowd was amazed and the pharisees as usual citicised Jesus saying, “It is through the prince of devils that he casts out devil”. Jesus was unperturbed to both these responses. He was focused about His Father’s business (Lk. 2:49). He carried on with his mission of preaching, proclaiming, curing, cleansing, teaching and tutoring. He was unstoppable. Neither praise nor criticism, amazement or anger, applause or ridicule, recognition or disregard could stop Jesus from being focused about his purpose because he took delight in accomplishing the will of His Father through continuous union with Him in prayer.   

In the letter to the Romans we read, “Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is, his good, pleasing and perfect will” (Rom. 12:2). This is purposeful and focused life in Christ and a challenge in the current scenario that is compromising and relativizing. In this pursuit we may be ridiculed, mocked, ostracised, citicised, slandered and marginalized. Let us not get discouraged or give up rather with constant prayer and communion with the Lord, stay focused and become unstoppable in imitating Jesus our trend setter par excellence.

Bible Reflections I 10.07.2023 - MONDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time: Week 14

Readings

         I - Gen. 28:10-22

      II - Mt.9: 18-26

HAVE NO FEAR BUT FAITH

The pleading of a person with faith has the power to obtain that prayer, is the crux of the Gospel passage today. The official pleads with Jesus for the life of his dead daughter, “come and lay your hand on her and her life will be saved” and the woman suffered from a hemorrhage for twelve years says to herself, “If I can only touch his cloak, I shall be well again”. The official pleaded with words and the woman with no words but both with a tremendous faith in Jesus obtains the miracle for them. The sincere prayer from their heart of these both touches the heart of Jesus, causing, one to come alive and the other healed.

It is not in the multiplicity of our words that God hears our prayer but in the quality prayer with utmost faith and trust in the Lord. Jesus can turn all our problems and worries upside down. All we need is faith and trust in the triune God as we read in the Book of Revelation, “He will wipe every tear from their eyes, and there will be no more death or sorrow or crying or pain” (Rev. 21:4). When we are faced with fear, worries, problems and anxieties and are unable to holdfast to the Lord, may our hearts resonate with the prayer of the father who sought for the healing of his possessed son: “Lord, I believe; help my unbelief” (Mk. 9:24).

Bible Reflections I 09.07.2023 - SUNDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time: Week 14

Readings

                  I - Zech. 9: 9-10

                 II - Rom. 8: 9, 11-13

                III - Mt. 11: 25-30

HUMILITY DISCOVERS THE TRUTH

The Gospel passage today does not condemn the learned, the intelligent, the clever or the persons of repute, on the other hand, Jesus highlights on the disposition and openness of the heart in beholding the truth as it comes. The so called ‘elite’ of Jesus’ time were the Pharisees, the Sadducees, the Chief Priest and the Scribes. They were familiar with the law and the prophecy and were fanatic in the practice of the religion. They were considered to be the custodians of their religion and the Law of Moses. But they failed to recognise the Promised One in Jesus in their pride and stubbornness of heart. Instead the sinners, tax collectors, women, children, the poor, the disabled, the prostitutes, the gentiles and the Samaritans in their openness, simplicity and humility of heart accepted Jesus to be the Messiah. Jesus glorifies and thanks the Father for His goodness, mercy and magnanimity in choosing these little ones to reveal Jesus His Son as their Messiah which is the gracious will of the Father. 

In the ordinary walk of life, people wish for the truth that is appealing, pleasing, and convenient but never contradicting, combating or conflicting their perspectives and ideologies. People never desire for the truth that hurts, contradicts, questions, conflicts and disturbs. Only those people who are open to the truth with the simplicity and humility of heart can be drawn to recognise the Lord as he comes to visit us.

Bible Reflections I 08.07.2023 - SATURDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time: Week 13

Readings 

           I - Gen. 27: 1-5, 15-29

          II - Mt. 9: 14-17

                       

RIGHT THING AT THE RIGHT MOMENT 

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

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

Bible Reflections I 07.07.2023 - FRIDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time: Week 13

Readings:  

              I - Gen. 23:1-4,19; 24:1-8,62-67 

             II - Mt. 9:9-13

FOLLOW ME

Today’s Gospel passage is about the conversion story of Matthew. Matthew himself, in his Gospel, tell us what it was like, this encounter which changed his life. He shows us an “exchange of glances” capable of changing history. Jesus looked at him. He looked at Matthew calmly, peacefully. He looked at him with eyes of mercy; he looked at him as no one had ever looked at him before. And this look unlocked Matthew’s heart; it set him free, it healed him, it gave him hope, a new life. After the Lord looked upon him with mercy, he said to Matthew: “Follow me.” Matthew got up and followed him. After the look, a word. After love, the mission. Matthew was no longer the same; he was transformed. 

Being first Friday, the day dedicated to the most Sacred Heart of Jesus, allow Jesus to look at us. Allow his gaze to run over our hearts and minds. Allow that look to become our joy, our hope and this is conversion. Let our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “Jesus meek and humble of hearts, fill our hearts with your love”.

Bible Reflections I 06.07.2023 - THURSDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time: Week 13

Readings

             I - Gen. 22: 1-19

            II - Mt. 9:1-8

ST. MARIA GORETTI

Today the Church celebrates the feast of St. Maria Goretti, the patron saint of young people especially the girls and the poor. Matia Goretti was born into poverty in Corinaldo, Italy. She was the third of seven children. Due to poverty Maria was unable to attend school. She spent most of her time in the family home, performing chores and caring for her younger siblings. Despite her lack of formal education and inability to read, Maria had deep faith. She lost her father when she was nine. The poverty of the family and the loss of her dear father did not diminish her faith. When Maria was only eleven and Alessandro was twenty, he found Maria alone in her home and tried to seduce her. Alessandro threatened to kill Maria if she refused him. Since Maria never yielded to him, he stabbed her fourteen times and killed her. Before her death, Maria was able to express her forgiveness for Alessandro, further expressing her hope that she would see him in heaven. Pope Pius XII canonized Maria and referred to her as the "Saint Agnes of the twentieth century".

In today's Gosple passage, Jesus heals the paralytic brought to him by some people for healing. Through the intercession of St. Maria Goretti, let us bring to our Lord all the youth who are in the state of sin; crippled and paralyzed to addiction, relativism and impatience; and pray that the Lord may raise them to Christian standards so that they may glorify the Lord through their lives.

Bible Reflections I 05.07.2023. - WEDNESDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time: Week 13

Readings

             I - Gen. 21:5, 8-20

            II - Mt. 8:28-34

LET YOUR PRESENCE PROJECT GOD

Good and evil, light and darkness, virtues and vices can never coexist.  One vanishes in the presence of the other.  This is the essence of the Gospel passage today.  Evil can never resist the presence of all Holy, all Good and all Powerful.  The demons could not resist the presence of Jesus and shouted, “Have you come here to torment us?”  The presence of Jesus pervades to vanquish the darkness of evil and restores, fosters and promotes life, love, peace and joy in humanity. 

In the light of this Gospel passage, let us reflect on our presence in our family and in the society. How does our presence effect our family and friends, kith and kin, dear and near ones? Do we in our kindness, love, understanding, comfort, consolation, gentleness, selflessness and sacrifice project God to them?  If so, we are a beam of blessing and agents of joy to our family and friends, kith and kin, dear and near ones.

Bible Reflections I 04.07.2023 - TUESDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time: Week 13

Readings 

           I - Gen. 19: 15-29 

          II - Mt.8: 23-27 

                           

JESUS IS GOD WITH US

Today’s Gospel passage is about Jesus calming the storm. The boat was swamped by the waves caused by the storm. The disciples feared that they were perishing forgetting that Jesus was with them in the boat. Though they had witnessed miracles before their eyes, when situation demanded they were almost losing their faith. The called to the Lord and were saved from the destructive storm.

Our life on this earth is a journey. A journey on boat with Jesus besides us. We too like the disciples when we are put in the tight corner fear all things but fail to realise that it is time for us to affirm our faith in the Lord Jesus. Though we’ve witnessed miracles after miracles in our lives, when time comes we also waver in our faith like the disciples. Let not our faith waver but place our trust in the Lord who can work wonders for us.

Bible Reflections I 03.06.2023 - MONDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

03.07.2023

Ordinary Time: Week 13

Readings 

           I - Acts. 10: 24-35 

          II - 1 Pt. 1: 3-9 

         III - Jn. 20: 24-29

                  

ST. THOMAS THE APOSTLE

Today the Church celebrates the fest of St. Thomas, the ardent apostle of Jesus and the apostle of India, Who walked on the shores of Kerala and Chennai proclaiming the good news. He belonged to simple fishers’ folk from Galilee and was called by Jesus to follow him.  That he did whole heartedly and showed even greater courage and generosity than the other eleven.  When Jesus told, “Let us go to Judea”, Thomas solemnly stated “Let us go too and die with him”.  The doubting disciple was not the one to say that he had understood when in fact he had not. When Jesus said. “You know the way to the place where I am going”, Thomas retorted saying “Lord we do not know where you are going, so how can we know the way”.  

The straight forward reaction of St. Thomas to the testimony of his companions regarding the resurrection of the Lord, “unless I see the holes that the nails made in his hands and put my finger into the holes they made and unless I can put my hand into his side, I refuse to believe”.  When finally Jesus appeared to St. Thomas, he confirmed his faith saying, “My Lord and my God”. The feast enlighten on the fact that the slow surrender of St. Thomas is more comforting and strengthening to our faith than the ready acceptance of the believing apostles. From a doubter of the Lord and from a feeble faith, God had transformed the faith of St. Thomas into one that was firm and true, to the point that he was even ready to lay down his life for the sake of the Lord and standing true to his faith.  May we pick up inspirations from St. Thomas, the apostle to transcend from our human frailties with utmost acceptance, for a greater transformation.

Bible Reflections I 01.07.2023 - SATURDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time: Week 12

Readings

          I - Gen. 18: 1-15

      II - Mt. 8: 5-17

THE POWER OF WORDS

Power of words and power of faith surpasses proximity of time and place is the central theme of the Gospel message today. The centurion though was a gentile was convinced that the word of the Lord has absolute authority of command to accomplish its purpose and would heal his servant - the power of word. He recognizes that Jesus was someone great and calls Him “Lord” which also means master while the learned and the cleaver of Israel failed to recognise this identity of Jesus - power of faith. The power of the words of Jesus and the power of the faith of the centurion finally heals the servant.  

Words spoken can be a prayer, a blessing, a curse, an appreciation, a deterrence, a praise, a gossip, a truth or a lie. Words can heal, hurt, build, break, confront, console, frustrate and encourage. Words have such power and would definitely have their own effect and impact. The words of Jesus was always life giving, life promoting and life enhancing. In this light let us examine the quality of our words. St. James in his epistle says, “The tongue is a small member, yet it boasts of great exploits” (Jas. 3:5). Let our tongues be trained to testify that we are children of God in the words that we use and utter for every word we utter has a great power.

Bible Reflections I 30.06.2023 - FRIDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time: Week 12

Readings  

         I - Gen. 17:1, 9-10, 15-22

      II - Mt. 8:1-4

HEAL ME JESUS 

The Gospel passage of the day is about the cleansing of a leper. The lepers were considered as sinners and outcasts in the Jewish society. They lived in the outskirts of the town. They were forbidden to have any contact with the people who had no leprosy. As Jesus was accompanied by great crowds, a leper accosted Jesus with great courage saying, “Lord if you choose, you can make me clean”. Jesus with great compassion touched him and said, “I do choose. Be made clean”. The courage of the leper and the compassion of Jesus restored the leper back to his normal life.   

In the Letter to the Hebrews we read, “Because he himself suffered when he was tempted, he is able to help those who are being tempted” (Heb. 2:18). But, there are times when the burden of the problems block us completely from raising our hearts and minds to God. We get drowned in a thimble of water and struggle, instead let us have courage to place all our trust and hope in the Lord for he can wipe away every tear from our eyes (Rev. 21:4). God in His compassion wishes that we be healed and relieved from all sin, sickness, problems, worries, anxieties, guilt, fear and be restored to our identity as children of God.

Bible Reflections I 29.06.2023 - THURSDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time: Week 12

Readings

         I - Acts. 12:1-11

      II - 2Tim. 4:6-8, 17-18

     III - Mt. 16:13 -19              

ST. PETER AND ST. PAUL 

Today the Church solemnises the feast of St. Peter and St. Paul, the giants of Christianity and the great pillars of the Church. Simon Peter was an unlearned fisherman and Saul Paul was a learned and a Jewish fanatic who persecuted the Christians. Simon encountered the Lord and became Peter, the rock and the leader of the Church. Saul encountered the Lord and became Paul, the ‘apostle of the gentiles’. Both of them accepted Jesus as their Lord and Messiah and proclaimed Him vehemently through their words and deeds. Many convinced of their emphatic preaching and became Christians. Their life and preaching infuriated the higher authority of the Government resulting in the martyrdom of the apostles. St. Peter was crucified upside down and St. Paul was beheaded. Both endured the same with a hope of eternal crown of glory that awaited them in the Paradise. 

We too have accepted Jesus as our Lord in Baptism. Mere acceptance will not suffice. We are commanded to proclaim Jesus not in mere words but in our deeds of love, “By this shall all men know that you are my disciples, if you have love one to another” (Jn.13:35). In our giving, sharing, forgiving, compassion, kindness, love, generosity and self-giving people must identify that we are Christians. In our effort to live for the Lord, we would be swimming against the current, and fall a prey to the wrath of the world. Let us not loose heart instead as St. Paul would say let us “always be sober, endure suffering, do the work of an evangelist, carry out your ministry fully” (2Tim. 4:5). When we are faced with suffering and opposition, let us rejuvenate our mind and heart with the assuring promise of Our Lord Jesus Christ, “Behold I am always with you until the end of times” (Mt. 28:20).

Bible Reflections I 28.06.2023 - WEDNESDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time: Week 12

Readings  

         I - Gen. 15: 1-12; 17-18

        II - Mt. 7: 15-20              

LET YOUR LIFE PREACH

In today’s Gospel Jesus cautions us not to be deceived by impressing gestures and appealing words of the hypocritical people around us. He also gives us a clue to discover their hypocrisy with the simple metaphor, “a good tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a bad tree good fruit”. Integrity of the people testify their quality and credibility while disintegrity cause incredibility and bad reputation.  

St. Francis of Assisi would say, “Preach the Gospel at all times and when necessary use words”. Preaching Gospel at all times is nothing but to walk the talk, make it a way of living and that is spirituality. Mere preachers of a religion are not more than a ‘salesperson’; for a salesperson promote a product while the preacher promote a religion if he does not live by the same. As Christians with an obligation to preach the gospel, it is easy to speak about God’s love, mercy, forgiveness and benevolence. We are good trees and cannot but yield only good fruits.

Bible Reflections I 27.06.2023 - TUESDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time: Week 12

Readings  

         I - Gen. 13: 2, 5-18

      II - Mt. 7: 6 , 12-14              

CHOOSE THE NARROW GATE

  

To treat the other like as we treat ourselves is a challenging narrow path. It is difficult but not impossible. We care for our name, fame, reputation, respect and honour but do we wish the same for the other? The ‘I’ in us is so predominant that we promulgate and pamper it at the cost of negative criticism, cutting remarks, false accusation, rash judgment and ridiculous rumors towards others making their precious life a difficult and impossible one to live. This is what Jesus calls as ‘broad path’, easy but leads to destruction.  

Jesus through the Gospel passage invites us to travel through the ‘road less travelled’, by overcoming our jealousy, selfishness, pride and arrogance. Encouraging words, wishing the good of the other, a bit of appreciation and praise, prioritizing others needs to our own, positive outlook on others and generous forgiveness especially to those whom we don’t love enough or don’t love at all is difficult. This is narrow path that requires courage and a large heart. Dare to tread it with grace, prayer and above all with a bit of love for a bit of love can set all things right. In the silence of our hearts let us pray: “Lord Jesus fill my heart with your love”.

Bible Reflections I 26.06.2023 - MONDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time: Week 12

Readings 

         I - Gen. 12: 1-9

      II - Mt. 7: 1-5

               

JUDGE NOT AND YOU WILL NOT BE JUDGED

According to the teachings of the Jewish tradition the Jewish people believed that God used two measures to judge His people viz. measure of justice and measure of mercy. Whichever measure is used on people would be measure that God will use upon. This is what Jesus says in today’s Gospel: “For the judgment you make you will be judged”. All of us are imperfect with wrongdoings and shortcomings therefore unworthy to pass any judgment. As the Psalmist would say, “If you O Lord should mark our guilt, who will survive?” (Ps. 130:3). In the letter of St. James we read, “There will be no mercy for those who have not shown mercy to others. But if you have been merciful, God will be merciful when He judges. The One who is all perfect and has the right to judge restrains his judgement as the scripture says,”The Lord is slow to anger and abounding in mercy”. (Ps. 145:8) 

When we are prone to pass judgment on anybody, let us hold on reverse it upon ourselves and examine, if the judgment befits us we have no right to make judgment. This is the teaching par excellence of Jesus. Jesus said to the ravaging crowd that brought the woman caught in the very act of committing to kill her, “Let anyone among you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her”. While Jesus was hanging on the cross amidst the murderers said, “Father, forgive them; for they do not know what they are doing” (Lk. 23:34). When we are pushed to pass judgment upon others we have two options: Either to examine ourselves or to forgive, modelled after the example of Jesus our Lord. As Jesus exhorts let us “be merciful even as the Heavenly Father is merciful”. (Lk.6:36)

Bible Reflections I 25.06.2023 - SUNDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time: Week 12

Readings:  

              I - Jer. 20: 10-13

      II - Rom. 5: 12-15

     III - Mt. 10: 26-33              

STAND FOR THE LORD

The one who proclaim God’s words always beget sufferings, troubles and persecutions because, His words contradict the worldly values that are compromising, convincing and comforting, centered around one self. The first and the Gospel reading of the day comes as courage and consolation to those who proclaim God’s Words and stand by the same as well. The Lord comes as warrior to protect and defend; stumbling the persecutors because we are so precious and dear to the Lord that even the hairs of our head are numbered.

As St. Paul says in the second reading, we are saved by the precious blood of Jesus. Our life is redeemed from sin by the life of Jesus. Courage! Stand up for the One who loves so much, defends all times and sides when suppressed. Dare to do the will of God and suffer the consequences with the confidence that we are the children of God and that He will never let us perish.

Bible Reflections I 24.06.2023 - SATURDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time: Week 11

Readings:  

              I - Is. 49: 1-6

     II - Acts. 13: 22-26

    III - Lk. 1: 57-66; 80             

NATIVITY OF JOHN THE BAPTIST 

The Church celebrates only three birthdays: the birthday of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the birthday of St. John the Baptist and the nativity of our Lord Jesus Christ.  It is because the three had a significant and specific role in the history of Salvation.  Blessed Virgin Mary, to be the mother of our Lord Jesus Christ, St. John the Baptist to be the forerunner of Jesus Christ and Jesus Christ the redeemer of the world.   Today we celebrate the feast of the solemnity of the nativity of St. John the Baptist. God calls us by name even before we were formed in the mother’s womb and sets us apart for a particular purpose with the promise of this assured assistance and predominant protection is the main stream of all three readings today. Zachariah’s son is named as ‘John’, a name given by God Himself. He comes to the world with the mission of preparing the way of the Lord, the Messiah and the promised one.  His life will be tough but as in the first reading, he would reap his reward from the God who sent him with a purpose.  

God has a master and mighty plan for every child right from its knitting in the mother’s womb (Ps. 139:13).  He calls and choses us even before we were formed in the mother’s womb (Jer. 1:5) for a specific purpose. And this purpose is very, unique, different and original for every person. The purpose might be challenging, for to live for God is to live in the hatred of the people of the world. If we analyse in the light of the lives of the legends in the Bible, the saints and the people of our time who had opted to live as per the teachings of the Lord, have left us with one common message: to serve the Lord is to suffer for the Lord.  Take Courage. Dare to live and suffer for the Lord because we have the assurance of the Lord with us, “Behold, I am with you always, until the end of the age” (Mt. 28:20).

Bible Reflections I 23.06.2023 - FRIDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time: Week 11

Readings

            I - 2 Cor. 11:18, 21-30

            II - Mt. 6: 19-23

                

SOUND EYE FOR THE SOUND MIND

Jesus in today’s Gospel says that the eye is the lamp of the body. Eye is the most powerful input and output organ of the body system comparatively. What enters the eye, fill our body, mind and heart and we conduct ourselves accordingly. When the eye is filled with all that is true, noble, right, pure, lovely and admirable (Phil. 4:8), we will be aglow, transmitting the grace, mercy, love and compassion of God and help all around us to walk in our light leading them to the light of God. For example, when Jesus looked up (Lk. 19:5) the sycamore tree to look into the eyes of Zacchaeus, the life of Zacchaeus, the tax collector was transformed. It is better to guard our eyes than to let our whole life go a waste and disgrace.   

Constant trimming and kindling is required for a lamp to shine bright. Similarly, if we wish to be sparkling with the grace and spirit of God, we must be vigilant about what we see and perceive. What we see defines and describes our life. Therefore, be vigilant and on the guard to carry the light of God in our eyes to radiate the lives of people around us.

Bible Reflections I 22.06.2023 - THURSDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time: Week 11

Readings 

            I - 2 Cor. 11:1-11

            II - Mt. 6: 7-15

                

THE PRAYER OF JESUS

Jesus subverts the relationship between God and the people of Israel “we are your people and you are our God” to a relationship of sonship by calling God, “Our Father”. A paradigm shift from ‘God’ to ‘Father’. Through His prayer “Our Father” Jesus teaches us how to be God’s responsible children in realising the Kingdom of God here on earth. “Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need” (Mt. 6:33) is the central theme of the Gospel passage today.

To understand the prayer better let us reflect on the last three invocations of the prayer. The first of the last three is about forgiveness. There is no choice but to forgive if we wish to be forgiven. Forgiveness liberates. With forgiveness we become free children of God. As free children of God we are called to choose between the good and apparently good, the worldly values and the Gospel values. In the second invocation, Jesus teach us to pray to the Father not to lead us to this temptation but to stand steadfast in His values of love, peace, generosity, humility, honesty, hope, joy and foster fraternity. In every temptation we have three choices viz. to compromise, to yield to the world and to yield to God. In the last invocation we plead for God’s grace to resist these temptations and yield to God alone so that there reigns justice and order in the world. Our striving for freedom, fraternity and justice can actualize the dream of Jesus, the Kingdom of God, where His name is honoured and His will prioritized. This is a warfare for which we are strengthened and supported by God’s the Word of God, the daily bread that sustains in our daily journey and we plead to God for this bread to fight the battle in bringing up God’s reign here on earth.

Bible Reflections I 21.06.2023 - WEDNESDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time: Week 11

Readings

              I - 2Cor. 9:6-11

             II - Mt. 6: 1-6, 16-18

                

ST. ALOYSIUS GONZAGA 

Through today’s Gospel passage Jesus tries to alter the human focus from earthly reward to heavenly reward in the matters pertaining to the acts of piety. Since these acts of piety viz. almsgiving, prayer and fasting are attributed to God, they must be accomplished with an undivided attention and utmost concentration solely with the intention of pleasing God alone unlike the hypocrites and the Pharisees who sort for human appreciation and applause.

When once St. John of the Cross was praying, Jesus asked him, “What would you like to have from me for all you have done and all you have suffered?” John replied, “Lord, to suffer and be despised for you”. Today the Church remembers St. Aloysius Gonzaga who says, “It is better to be the child of God than king of the whole world”. Like these saints, dare to have courage to forego the praises, glory and honour of this world and seek after the glory of the Lord. This is the wisdom of heart and grace of God. May the Lord give us the grace to choose God in all our thoughts, words and deeds and prove ourselves to be the children of God.

Bible Reflections I 20.06.2023 - TUESDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time: Week 11

Readings: 

           I - 2 Cor. 8:1-9

           II - Mt. 5:43-48

                

PRAY FOR YOUR ENEMIES

  

The paradoxical yet practical preaching of Jesus proposes to love our enemies and pray for those who persecute us. Is it possible to love and pray for those who offend, scoff, revile, falsely accuse, spread rumors, gossip and drag our name in vain to the point of making our life difficult and disastrous? Jesus is our model par excellence in this regard who forgave even His executioners. 

We do have exemplary people even in this era following this teaching to inspire and encourage besides being a witness to Christian living. It is easy to hate those who hate us but challenging to love and pray for them. Hate for hate can by practiced by anyone but it is in loving everyone beyond our likes and dislikes, friends and foes, whims and fancies can we imitate our Father in Heaven and claim ourselves to be children of God the Father. In the silence of our hearts let us pray: “Lord Jesus fill my heart with your love”.

Bible Reflections I 19.06.2023 - MONDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time: Week 11

Readings

            I - 2 Cor. 6:1-10

           II -  Mt. 5:38-42

               

CONQUER EVIL WITH GOOD

According to the Law of Moses, evil inflicted has to be paid back with the same density of evil viz. an eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.  But Jesus, the New Moses gives a new law reversing and replacing the one that existed.  Not to retaliate but to resist the evil doer with our good deeds. Jesus instructs us to conquer evil with goodness.  

If we try to walk by the Gospel passage we might be ridiculed and labelled as foolish and coward.  If we dare to be Christians we should also dare to abide by the teachings of Jesus that calls us to challenge the existing world order.  Forgiving the one offended, walking an extra mile for the good of one that manipulates, wishing the good of the one that inflicts evil is of course a challenge and a risk.  The Bible says “Jesus went about doing good (Acts 10:38)”. With the grace of God let us aspire to go about doing good modelled after our Master and Lord Jesus Christ.

Bible Reflections I 18.06.2023 - SUNDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time: Week 11

Readings 

           I - Ex. 19: 2-6

          II - Rom. 5: 6-11

         III - Mt. 9: 36-10: 8

                  

GOD IS COMPASSIONTE

The three readings of the day speak about God’s work of salvation and his commission to them. The first reading is on God’s compassion and concern for his people. He saved them from the hands of the Egyptians and brought them to Himself. He commissions them to obey His voice and keep His covenant so that they remain always as God’s own. In the second reading Paul in his letter to the Romans writes that though we were sinners, still Christ was willing to give his life as a ransom for our salvation. In the Gospel passage, Jesus feels compassionate for the people around who were like sheep without a shepherd. He wished to save the suffering people and so he commissions his apostles to carry on his work among people until he comes again in glory. 

We are Christians with a great mission of healing, preaching and proclaiming. We need not raise the dead the dead, heal the sick….but with our words and gestures, and bring healing to the minds and hearts of people. We need not go to the street corners or search for pulpits to preach the Word of God but can effectively be done through our own life style. Not our mouths alone, let our entire being proclaim the glory of God. Become sensitive to the needs and sufferings of others and reflect Jesus amidst them through our lives.

Bible Reflections I 17.06.2023 - SATURDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time: Week 10

Readings 

           I - 2 Cor. 5: 41-21

          II - Lk. 2: 41-51

                  

IMMACULATE HEART OF MARY

Today the Church celebrates the feast of the Immaculate Heart of the Blessed Virgin Mary. In celebrating the feast of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, we celebrate her constant ‘Yes’ to the Lord that she once said to the angel Gabriel, the messenger of God at the time of annunciation: “Let ‘it’ be done according to your word.” That ‘it’ made her accept all things as the will of God: the accusations and allegations from people around, childbirth in the manger, flight to Egypt with the new born baby Jesus, the twelve years boy Jesus being lost in the Jerusalem temple, supporting and encouraging accompaniment of his son on his journey towards Calvary, suffering under the cross, acceptance of the humanity as her own children, the death of his dear son on the cross, to be with the apostles in the upper room at the Pentecost. And finally, that obedience to God all through her life fetched her assumption into heaven and the glory of incarnation as queen of heaven and earth.  

Yielding to the will of God is not easy it demands courage, conviction and daily commitment. Mary is an absolute model for our everyday living by surrendering ourselves unto the plan of God. We may have to suffer on account of our obedience to God but have courage and hope that we will like Mary partake in the glory of God if we submit ourselves unreservedly to Plan of God. May the Blessed Virgin Mary Bless all of us her children and give us the courage to walk by the way of the Lord.

Bible Reflections I 16.06.2023 - FRIDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time: Week 10

Readings 

           I - Deu. 7: 6-11

          II - 1 Jn. 4: 7-16

         III - Mt. 11: 25-30

                  

SACRED HEART OF JESUS 

The solemnity of the Sacred Heart of Jesus is the epitome of the absolute love of God for the humankind.  The heart of Jesus especially beats for the lost, the injured, the strayed and the weak; and he goes to their recue with an ardent love and anxiety like that of a Good Shepherd in manifesting the love of God for His people.  The despised, like the tax collectors; the abandoned, like the lepers who lived in the gallows; the oppressed, like the women and the children; the sinners, like the woman caught in adultery; the outcast, like the Samaritans; the traitor, like Judas; the betrayer, like Peter; the religious fanatic, like Saul and everyone are individually precious to Jesus. As the first reading says, we are God’s treasured possession.

In response to the unfathomable love of God, let the celebration of the feast of the Sacred Heart of Jesus inflame our hearts with love and devotion.  Jesus was the manifestation of God’s love for us, resolve as Christians, to manifest the love of Jesus in our thoughts, words, activities and dealings.  As we read in the second reading, we testify that we are born of God only when we love our neighbour.  Our love for God is proved in our love for our suffering brothers and sisters. Become a channel of God’s love to all who come in contact with us so that, “By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another” (Jn. 13: 35) be witnessed through our Christian living.  May our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “Sacred Heart of Jesus, make my heart like yours”

Bible Reflections I 15.06.2023 - THURSDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time: Week 10

Readings

               I - 2Cor. 3:15-4:1,3-6

               II - Mt. 5:20-26

             

FORGIVENESS SURPASSES ALL THINGS 

The offenders and murders are liable for judgment. But, in today’s Gospel Jesus says that the one who is angry with his or her brother or sister is liable to judgment. He goes a step even further and insists to leave the offering at the altar and go to reconcile with the person who has something against him or her. Through this powerful sermon Jesus enlightens the humanity that love of God and love of neighbour are inseparable and that they are two sides of the same coin. Forgiveness is supreme and that lack of forgiveness nullifies any offering or other expressions of devotion. 

Insults inflicted and words spoken in anger can incapacitate, mutate and invalidate persons to the point of leaving them dead while they are still alive. Hence anger tantamount to murder. Jesus proposes reconciliation as a rudiment to quench anger and foster peaceful living. Reconciliation is to be resorted not only when we hurt others in our anger but also when we realise that others have something towards us. This requires humility. Jesus says, “Learn from me for I am meek and humble of heart” (Mt. 11:29). May the Lord Jesus teach us to be humble so that hatred, anger, rancor, resentment and violence can be resolved in reconciliation and peace restored. Jesus says, “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God”. Getting angry is our weakness but feeling sorry for the same is Godliness. Let us repent, reconcile and recourse to peaceful living for we are children of God.

Bible Reflections I 14.06.2023 - WEDNESDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time: Week 10

Readings

              I  - 2 Cor. 3:4-11

             II -  Mt. 5:17-19

           

THE LAW AND THE PROPHETS

Israel was chosen to walk by the law and wait for the promised one in prophesy.  Jesus, the long awaited Messiah came as the fulfillment of the law and the prophets but in the stubbornness of their heart, the Scribes and the Pharisees refused to behold the promised one in Jesus.  They were adamant in holding on to the difficult and multiplied version of the law than to accept its simplified and condensed version given by Jesus to love God and to love one’s neighbor as oneself. 

Jesus through his love and life proved that this commandment is possible to observe and through today’s Gospel passage invites us to observe and exhorts us to help others to in observing the same.  If we wish to be great in the Kingdom of God we have to feed the hungry, give a drink to the thirsty, welcome the stranger, cloth the naked, care for the sick and visit those in the prison (Mt. 25:35-40). In this way we certainly outdo not only the Scribes and the Pharisees but also the hypocrites of our time as well.  For whatever we do the least of our brethren we do unto God Himself (Mt.25: 40).  In the simple acts of kindness and charity, try to become great in the kingdom of God.

Bible Reflections I 13.06.2023 - TUESDAY I INDRAYA MANNA I

Ordinary Time - Week 10

Readings 

                 I  - 2Cor. 1:18-22

    II -  Mt. 5:13-16

St. Antony of Padua (Memorial)

           

WE ARE SALT AND LIGHT TO THE EARTH

In today’s Gospel, Jesus invites us to make the marooned life colourful and meaningless life purposeful by being a light and the salt of the earth.  As Christians we have the responsibility to testify to the world that it is in sharing and not accumulating; it is in giving and not in receiving; it is in synergy and not in success; and it is in solidarity and not in aloofness, can we make our life colourful and purposeful.  It takes a lot of courage to go against the current carrying the light of Christ to savour the lives of the people living in darkness and despair. 

The Church today remembers St. Anthony of Padua, an Augustinian monk. He was born in Lisbon, Portugal.  He hailed from a noble family. Still he gave up everything including his wealth and riches for the sake of Christ and his Gospel.  He was just thirty five years old when he died.  He was canonised in less than a year. His tongue is not corrupt and still exhibited in St. Anthony’s Church, Padua. His teaching was so perfect and his life exemplified Christian living as a monk.  St. Anthony is also considered as patron for finding of the lost things. Let us pray to St. Anthony, the finder of lost things, to help us discover the qualities of Jesus in us so that we too may embrace an exemplary life in Christ becoming salt and light in our own society.  May our mind and heart resonate with the prayer, “St. Anthony, Pray for us”.