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”.