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Blessings

2023-01-07T12:39:00.002+01:00

THE LORD BLESS YOU AND KEEP YOU...

MAKE HIS FACE TO SHINE UPON YOU

AND BE GRACIOUS TO YOU...

LIFT UP HIS COUNTENANCE UPON YOU,

AND GIVE YOU PEACE (Num 6:24-26).

HAPPY NEW YEAR

Twenty-Sixth Sunday of the Year (B)

2021-09-26T04:51:00.002+01:00

Homily (Reflection) for the Twenty-Sixth Sunday of the Year (B) (26^th September, 2021) on the Gospel

Num 11:25-29;

Ps 18:8.10.12-14 (R. V. 9);

Jas 5:1-6;

Mk 9:38-43. 45. 47-48 (9:38-48).

Ngozi, a little girl of about five years old had watched her mother with keen interest while preparing meals especially as she opens pots that has been on fire for a long time without using anything to protect her hands. One day, she enquired from her mother the secret behind the magic (act). In response, her mother told her that fire does not hurt elderly people. And without questioning further, Ngozi assimilated her mother’s reply as it was given.

After some weeks, Ngozi was at their neighbour’s house playing with her mates while their mother was cooking at the kitchen. The kitchen has no walls so the children could see virtually everything going on there. At a point, the woman opened the pot to see how the cooking was going but she could not bear the heat of the cover that made her to scream and threw the cover on the floor. Ngozi full of amazement asked her play mates (mostly children of the woman), ‘So your mother is still a little girl?’

Topic: Quo Vadis – Heaven or Hell?

Today’s gospel can be divided into two: teaching about Another Exorcist using Jesus’ name and teaching about Temptations to Sin. But we shall concentrate on the second one – Temptations to Sin.

Often people offer assorted reasons why they indulged in one sin or another. In today’s gospel however, we see how grievous is the consequences of sin in Jesus teaching,

If your hand causes you to sin, cut it off. It’s better to enter eternal life with only one hand than to go into unquenchable fires of hell with two hands. If your foot causes you to sin, cut it off. It’s better to enter eternal life with only one foot than to be thrown into hell with two feet. And if your eye causes you to sin, gouge it out. It’s better to enter the Kingdom of God with only one eye than to have two eyes and be thrown into hell, ‘where the maggots never die and the fire never goes out.’ (Mk 9:43, 45, 47-48. LASB, NLT).

This teaching can be reframed in many ways for easier assimilation like: If earthly life, health, money, marriage, children, parents, friends, property, connection, and so on will cause you to sin, cut it/them out. It is better to enter the Kingdom of God without them than to have them and be thrown into hell fire, ‘where the maggots never die and the fire never goes out. Jesus warns,

For those who want to save their life will lose it, and those who lose their life for my sake will find it. For what will it profit them if they gain the whole world but forfeit their life? Or what will they give in return for their lives? (Matt 16:25-26).

Our lives here on earth affect others either positively or negatively. Hence, Jesus began the second part of the gospel in this way,

If any of you put a stumbling block before one of these little ones who believe in me, it would be better for you if a great millstone were hung around your neck and you were thrown into the sea (Mk 9:42).

The woman we saw in our introductory story could not endure the steam from her pot and the temperature of the cover of her pot, that are under her control. How can one endure the fires of hell? Jesus warns us of the fires of hell that were prepared for the devil and his angels, cf. Matt 25:41. Prophet Nahum rightly asked, “Who can stand before his indignation? Who can endure the heat of his anger? His wrath is poured out like fire, and the rocks are broken asunder by him” (Nah 1:6). It is therefore left for each and every one of us to choose where to go – heaven or hell.

Bible Reading: Matt 7:13-14; 10:16-33; 16:24-27; 2Pt 2:1-22.

Thought for today: Where are you preparing for – heaven or hell?

Let us Pray: God, our Father, help us to live the life that will earn us the kingdom prepared for your blessed from the foundation of the world – Amen.

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Announcement

2021-09-25T05:37:00.000+01:00

Dear brothers and sisters,

Because of the circumstances beyond my control,

I will be off for sometime starting from Monday, 27^th September, 2021.

Please, do bear with me.

Blessings+

Saturday of the Twenty-Fifth Week in Ordinary Time (I)

2021-09-25T05:01:00.003+01:00

Homily (Reflection) for Saturday of the Twenty-Fifth Week in Ordinary Time (I), (25^th September, 2021) on the Gospel

(B.V.M on Saturday, Opt. Mem.)

Zech 2:5-9.14-15;

Jer 31:10-13. (R. v.10);

Lk 9:43-45.

Topic: As you rise.

Jesus came into the world to save the world, cf. Jn 3:17. 12:47. In the words of Saint Paul, “...Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners” (1Tim 1:15). This mission He was to accomplish through His death on the cross, cf. Rom 5:10; Eph 2:16.

In today’s gospel, “While everyone was amazed at all that he [Jesus] was doing, he said to his disciples, ‘Let these words sink into your ears: The Son of Man is going to be betrayed into human hands.’” In other words, asking them to concentrate on the mission.

We are in this world for a mission. But the tendency of forgetting our mission seems to rise as we rise. We are admonished, “You shall remember the LORD your God, for it is he who gives you power to get wealth” (Deut 8:18a). The Psalmist warns, “...if riches increase, set not your heart on them” (Ps 62:10). This is because, “...the wise die, the fool and the stupid alike must perish and leave their wealth to others” (Ps 49:10). Note, “He who loves money will not be satisfied with money; nor he who loves wealth, with gain” (Eccl 5:10).

Every increment comes with corresponding responsibility, cf. Eccl 5:11. However, not all who do everything possible to rise are ready for the corresponding responsibility. As you rise, do not lose your mission because it is based on the fulfilment of your mission that you shall be rewarded. How far do you fulfil yours?

Bible Reading: Ps 49:1-20. 52:1-9.

Thought for today: Every level has corresponding responsibility.

Let us pray: Lord, assist us in fulfilling all you required of us – Amen.

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Friday of the Twenty-Fifth Week in Ordinary Time (I)

2021-09-24T04:53:00.004+01:00

Homily (Reflection) for Friday of the Twenty-Fifth Week in Ordinary Time (I) (24^th September, 2021) on the Gospel

Hagg 2:1-9;

Ps 42:1-4. (R. cf. v.5);

Lk 9:18-22.

Topic: Knowing Jesus.

In today’s gospel Jesus asked His disciples while praying, “Who do the crowds say that I am?” They thought He was John the Baptist, Elijah, or one of the ancient prophets. He asked further, “But who do you say that I am?” Peter replied, “The Messiah of God.” He also foretold His death and resurrection.

The timing of these questions (when Jesus was praying), says a lot about their necessity. Jesus came that we may have life in abundance, cf. Jn 10:10. However, believing that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God is the key, cf. Jn 20:31. The letter to the Hebrews reads, “...without faith it is impossible to please him. For whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him” (Heb 11:6).

Believing in God only needs our cooperation; “No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws him” (Jn 6:44). We ought to beseech God earnestly to draw us to Himself.

Bible Reading: Heb 11:4-7.

Thought for today: Who is Jesus?

Let us pray: God, draw us to yourself that we may believe in you – Amen.

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Memorial of Saint Pio of Pietrelcina, P.

2021-09-23T05:32:00.003+01:00

Homily (Reflection) for the Memorial of Saint Pio of Pietrelcina, P., (23^rd September, 2021) on the Gospel and the Memorial

Hag 1:1-8;

Ps 149:1-6.9. (R.v.4);

Lk 9:7-9.

Saint Pio of Pietrelcina also known as Saint Padre Pio was born in Pietrelcina, Italy on 25^th May, 1887 as Francesco Forgione. His parents were both very religious and also very poor. As a result of this, he took up a job which affected his studies negatively. He took the name Pius (Pio) when he joined the Order of Friars Minor Capuchin. Saint Pio was ordained in 1910 and was allowed to remain at home because of his poor health. He received the gift of stigmata on September 20, 1916 while hearing confessions. Saint Pio was known for his piety, charity and the quality of his preaching. He prophesied in 1947 that Fr. Karol Wojtyla who visited him would become a pope which fulfilled in 1978. He died in San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy on 23^rd September, 1968. Pope Saint John Paul II beatified him in 1999 and also canonized him on 16^th June, 2002. He is the patron saint of civil defence volunteers, adolescents, and the village of Pietrelcina.[1]

Topic: Hurt not.

When Herod heard about Jesus, he was perplexed because some said that John had been raised from the dead. Herod wondered because he beheaded John.

The book of Proverbs reads, “The eyes of the LORD are in every place, keeping watch on the evil and the good” (Prov 15:3). And He will repay everyone according to their deeds, cf. Matt 16:27; Rev 22:12.

Herod’s worry confirmed God’s words, “There is no peace...for the wicked” (Is 48:22; cf. Is 57:21; Gen 50:15). God threatened to send curses, confusion, and frustration upon the wicked, and in all they undertake until they are destroyed and perish on account of the evil they do, cf. Deut 28:20.

We must wash ourselves; make ourselves clean; remove the evil of our doings and cease to do evil, cf. Is 1:16. Our life is like a mist that appears for a little time and then vanishes, cf. Jas 4:14. The book of Proverbs rightly warns, “Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring forth” (Prov 27:1). We conclude with these words: Hurt not today that you may have peace tomorrow.

Bible Reading: Jas 4:13-17.

Thought for today: Prepare a peaceful tomorrow.

Let us pray: God, give us a heart of flesh to love you and our neighbours – Amen.

Saint Pio of Pietrelcina – Pray for us.

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[1] http://www.catholic.org/saints/saint.php?saint_id=311

Wednesday of the Twenty-Fifth Week in Ordinary Time (I)

2021-09-22T05:36:00.002+01:00

Homily (Reflection) for Wednesday of the Twenty-Fifth Week in Ordinary Time (I) (22^nd September, 2021) on the Gospel

Ezra 9:5-9;

Tob 13:2.4.6-8. (R.v.1);

Lk 9:1-6.

Topic: Call to duty.

In today’s gospel Jesus sent the twelve out with the authority over the unclean spirits. He said to them, “Take nothing for your journey, no staff, nor bag, nor bread, nor money – not even an extra tunic” (Lk 9:3). They should stay in any house where they are welcomed until they leave the place and should shake off the dust on their feet while leaving the place where they are not welcomed. The twelve preached the good news and also cured the diseased.

Considering Jesus’ instruction to the twelve it looks as if God was about to repeat what He did during the Israelites’ journey to the promised land; they spent forty years in the wilderness yet their clothes did not worn out, and their sandals did not worn off their feet; cf. Deut 29:5. He also provided bread, meat, and water for them all through their journey, cf. Ex 15:23-25; 16:4, 10-15, 21, 35; 17:2-6. Otherwise, how could they survive?

In a parallel passage, there is a clue to how Jesus wanted them to survive: labourers deserve their food (Matt 10:10). And in Luke, Jesus sheds more light, “Remain in the same house, eating and drinking whatever they provide, for the labourer deserves to be paid.... eat what is set before you” (Lk 10:7,8).

Jesus is telling us in today’s gospel that we all have our respective tasks with regard to the spreading of the gospel. The faithful is to provide for their ministers. If ministers of God leave their work in search of bread, bag, money, tunics and so on surely they will find these but not without inflicting serious injuries to the souls they are to pasture. Simply put, souls will be lost. And dearest ministers of God remember Pauline maxim, “If anyone will not work, let him not eat” (2Thess 3:10).

Bible Reading: 2Thess 3:6-15.

Thought for today: You have a role in the spreading of the gospel.

Let us pray: Lord, help every one of us to do our parts in your vineyard so that the gospel will continue to spread to the ends of the earth – Amen.

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Announcements

2021-09-21T05:13:00.001+01:00

Dear brothers and sisters,

Because of the circumstances beyond my control,

I will be off for sometime starting from Monday, 27^th September, 2021.

Please, do bear with me.

Blessings+

Feast of Saint Matthew, Ap.

2021-09-21T04:54:00.003+01:00

Homily (Reflection) for the Feast of Saint Matthew, Ap. Evang. (21^st September, 2021) on the Gospel and the Feast

Eph 4:1-7.11-13;

Ps 18:2-5. (R.v.5);

Matt 9:9-13.

Saint Matthew, Apostle and Evangelist, is believed to be same as Levi recorded by Mark and Luke, cf. Mk 2:14; Lk 5:27. He was son of Alphaeus, cf. Mk 2:14. Matthew was a tax collector, cf. Matt 9:9; Mk 2:14; Lk 5:27. He was listed among the apostles, cf. Matt 10:3; Mk 3:18; Lk 6:15; Acts 1:13. Matthew wrote one of the gospels and is the patron Saint of Accountants, Actors, Bankers, Bookkeepers, Tax collectors, and Taxi Drivers.

Topic: Really well?

Jesus saw Matthew in today’s gospel sitting at the tax booth and said to him, “Follow me.” He got up and followed Him. At a dinner in his house, Jesus sat among many tax collectors and sinners.

The Pharisees complained against Jesus dinning and winning with tax collectors and other sinners because they judged themselves righteous. This pharisaic attitude continues till today. Many categorise themselves as righteous under different names.

How can we explain passages like: “Surely there is not a righteous man on earth who does good and never sins” (Eccl 7:20). Saint John also asserted, “If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us” (1Jn 1:8). Again, Jesus’ command to continually pray for the forgiveness of our sins, cf. Matt 6:12; Lk 11:4.

Jesus replied them in part, “Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick.” By implication, those with pharisaic mentality do not look for Jesus. It requires great humility to admit one’s faults. Anyone who cannot admit his/her sins cannot pray, cf. Lk 18:9-14.

One’s inability to acknowledge his/her sinfulness retains one’s guilt, cf. Jn 9:41. Like the Jews, many who read the bible refused to come to Jesus to have life, cf. Jn 5:39-40. Jesus does not cast out anyone who comes to Him, cf. Jn 6:37.

Matthew followed Jesus when He called him because he acknowledged he was a sinner. And Saint Paul judged himself the worst of sinners, 1Tim 1:15. I confess that I am worse than all and ask God to have mercy on me, cf. Lk 18:13. What about you?

Bible Reading: 1Jn 1:5-10.

Thought for today: Who are you?

Let us pray: God, be merciful to me a sinner – Amen (cf. Lk 18:13).

Saint Matthew the Evangelist – Pray for us.

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Memorial of Saint Andrew Kim Taegon & Comps., MM.

2021-09-20T04:57:00.003+01:00

Homily (Reflection) for the Memorial of Saint Andrew Kim Taegon & Comps., MM., (20^th September, 2021) on the Gospel and the Memorial

Ezra 1:1-6;

Ps 125. (R. v.3);

Lk 8:16-18.

The evangelization of Korea began during the 17^th century through a group of lay persons. A strong vital Christian community flourished there under lay leadership until missionaries arrived from the Paris Foreign Mission Society. During the terrible persecutions that occurred between 1839 and 1867, one hundred and three members of the Christian community gave their lives as martyrs. They include a few bishops and priests, but for the most part lay people. Outstanding among these witnesses to the faith were the first Korean priest and pastor, Andrew Kim Taegon, and the lay apostle, Paul Chong Hasang. Pope Saint John Paul II, during his trip to Korea, canonized these martyrs on May 6, 1984.[1]

Topic: Your stuff.

Jesus said in today’s gospel, “No one after lighting a lamp hides it under a jar, or puts it under a bed, but puts it on a lampstand, so that those who enter may see the light.” He also cautions, “...to those who have, more will be given; and from those who do not have, even what they seem to have will be taken away.” These words call for sober reflection on who we are.

Often we consider ourselves terribly helpless before both real and imaginary forces. We tend to forget that God created all things, and by His will we exist and are created, cf. Rev 4:11. God created us in His image and likeness, cf. Gen 1:26-27.5:1; Jas 3:9. And “everything created by God is good” (1Tim 4:4).

The stuff we are made of is by no means inferior and are made by the Master Himself. Whatever we are is what God has made us to be and His intention for us is to do good works, cf. Eph 2:10.

Before whatever that stands on our way, “...we are more than conquerors through him who loved us” (Rom 8:37). We must remember always God’s response to Saint Paul, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness” (2Cor 12:9a). Never feel inferior because you are not. Borrowing the words of Saint Paul, we can do all things in Him who strengthens us, cf. Phil 4:13. To live fully so that others might see the light that we are, we must wake up from our slumber.

Bible Readings: Eph 2:1-10.

Thought for today: You are of superior by superior to be superior.

Let us pray: May God assist us to live our lives fully for His greater glory and for our happiness – Amen.

Saint Andrew Kim Taegon & Companions – Pray for us.

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[1] http://www.catholic.org/saints/saint.php?saint_id=20

Twenty-Fifth Sunday of the Year (B)

2021-09-19T05:10:00.002+01:00

Homily (Reflection) for the Twenty-Fifth Sunday of the Year (B) (19^th September, 2021) on the Gospel

Wis 2:12.17-20;

Ps 53:3-6.8 (R. V. 6);

Jas 3:16–4:3;

Mk 9:30-37.

In the company of a nobleman, Nasruddin visited the public bath. Once there, the nobleman jokingly asked Nasruddin, ‘If I were a slave, what would be a reasonable price for me?’

Responded Nasruddin: ‘Only 50 dinars.’

The nobleman angrily told him, ‘why, my bathing cloth costs 50 dinars!’

Nasruddin retorted: ‘Oh, that’s exactly what I told you – the price of your bathing cloth! Because, a nobleman has no value!’ Culled from Sagayanathan, A. (2009). Launching Pad: Stories for Sunday Homilies, Year – A, B & C. Bangalore: Asian Trading Corporation, p. 218.

Topic: Set priorities right.

In today’s gospel, Jesus began to reveal to His disciples the hard truth that “The Son of Man is to be betrayed into human hands, and they will kill him, and three days after being killed, he will rise again” (Mk 9:31). The gospel goes further, “But they did not understand what he was saying and were afraid to ask him” (Mk 9:32).

Despite the fact that the gospel explicitly stated Jesus’ intention for the twelve: “And he appointed twelve, whom he also named apostles, to be with him, and to be sent out to proclaim the message, and to have authority to cast out demons” (Mk 3:14-15), in their ignorance, they “argued with one another who was the greatest” (Mk 9:34). And this is quite contrary to Jesus’ intention for them, cf. Mk 10:41-45; Matt 20:24-28.

On our call as Christians, Saint Peter wrote, “But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God's own people, that you may declare the wonderful deeds of him who called you out of darkness into his marvellous light” (1Pt 2:9). He went on, “Once you were no people but now you are God's people; once you had not received mercy but now you have received mercy” (1Pt 2:10). And in the gospel according to Saint John we read that “... to all who received him, who believed in his name, he gave power to become children of God” (Jn 1:12). Saint John also wrote, “By this it may be seen who are the children of God, and who are the children of the devil: whoever does not do right is not of God, nor he who does not love his brother” (1Jn 3:10). Earlier in the Book of Deuteronomy we read, “... what does the LORD your God require of you, but to fear the LORD your God, to walk in all his ways, to love him, to serve the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul” (Deut 10:12). Similarly, in prophet Micah we also read, “He has showed you, O man, what is good; and what does the LORD require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?” (Mic 6:8).

Juxtaposing the call of the apostles and their behaviour in today’s gospel on one side and our own call and our behaviour today on the other, are we better off? Through the prophet Hosea God complains, “My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge; because you have rejected knowledge, I reject you from being a priest to me. And since you have forgotten the law of your God, I also will forget your children” (Hos 4:6). Being a priest in this contest is not limited to the ministerial priests. Every baptised is a priest as already cited, cf. 1Pt 2:9. Through the prophet Jeremiah God also complains, “For my people are foolish, they know me not; they are stupid children, they have no understanding. They are skilled in doing evil, but how to do good they know not” (Jer 4:22).

Dear friends in the Lord, God is embittered because of our wickedness, injustice, hatred, selfishness, faithlessness, and so on through which we have disorganized the world, cf. Gen 6:5-8. Just like the apostles who were ignorantly arguing over who was the greatest, what bothers us today is not our inability to do the will of God but the things we expect from God. Remember that for Nasruddin, the value of the nobleman in the slave market is just his bathing cloth. In like manner, God does not worth more than one of the channels we look for husbands, wives, children, wealth, protection, good health, longevity, power, breakthrough, connections, employment, and so on? We rarely see God as our Father who teaches us. And the relationships between ourselves seem to be worst. Most often we see the other just as a means to what we want. However, we ought to “... be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world” (Phil 2:15).

Bible Reading: Jer 4:1-4; Jn 1:1-13; Phil 2:12-17; Mk 10:35-45; 1Jn 3:1-24.

Thought for today: Reflect briefly on why you search for God and again why you keep relationships including your marriage.

Let us Pray: God, our Father, give us the grace to follow you always as our Father, our Lord, and our Master. And may we also respect the dignity of others always – Amen.

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Saturday of the Twenty-Fourth Week in Ordinary Time (I)

2021-09-18T05:18:00.002+01:00

Homily (Reflection) for Saturday of the Twenty-Fourth Week in Ordinary Time (I) (18^th September, 2021) on the Gospel

(B.V.M on Saturday, Opt. Mem)

1Tim 6:13-16;

Ps 99. (R.v.2);

Lk 8:4-15.

Topic: Clear the ground.

Today’s gospel covers the parable of the sower (Lk 8:4-8), its purpose (Lk 8:9-10), and its explanation (Lk 8:11-15).

As a sower sowed his seed, some fell on the path where they were trampled on, and the birds ate them up. The ones on the rock withered for lack of moisture. Those among thorns were choked. Only the seeds in good soil produced a hundredfold. Jesus warns, “Let anyone with ears to hear listen!”

The seed is the word of God. Seeds on the path are those the devil takes away the word from their hearts lest they believe and be saved. The ones on the rock are those in whom the word has no root though they received it with joy. They do not stand trials. The seeds among thorns are those the word they received is choked. And the seeds in good soil are those “when they hear the word, hold it fast in an honest and good heart, and bear fruit with patient endurance.”

Whenever we hear or read God’s word, possibilities abounds. Their producing fruits or not is based mainly on us. Some who are aware of this only pray and wait for miracle. Praying is good but no one can fly with prayer alone. Prayer needs work and vice versa, cf. Jas 2:17, 26. The words of our prayer must be in tandem with our works.

Bible Reading: Eph 4:25 – 5:2; Jas 4:7-10.

Thought for today: Are you a path, a rocky, a thorny or a good soil?

Let us pray: God, help us make our hearts habitable for your word – Amen.

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Friday of the Twenty-Fourth Week in Ordinary Time (I)

2021-09-17T05:10:00.000+01:00

Homily (Reflection) for Friday of the Twenty-Fourth Week in Ordinary Time (I) (17^th September, 2021) on the Gospel

1Tim 6:2-12;

Ps 48:6-10.17-20. (R. Matt 5:3);

Lk 8:1-3.

Topic: Part of the Church.

Jesus went through cities and villages proclaiming and bringing the good news of the kingdom of God. He was accompanied by the twelve and some women.

Recall that when Jesus met Peter, Andrew, James, and John, they were fishermen. He said to them, “Follow me, and I will make you fish for people.” They all left everything and followed Him, cf. Matt 4:19,21. 19:27; Mk 1:17,20. 10:28; Lk 5:10b-11. 18:28. Saint Mark summarized the purpose of the twelve in these words, “...he appointed twelve ... to be with him, and to be sent out to preach, cf. Mk 3:14.

The women who accompanied Jesus in today’s gospel were cured of evil spirits and infirmities. On their part, they provided for Jesus and His apostles.

Saint Paul describes the Church as a body, cf. 1Cor 12:12-13. Every part has specific function/s, cf. 1Cor 12:17-19. We are all members of His body, cf. Eph 5:30. And we all have functions. No healthy part of a body is functionless. Do you perform your function as a member of the church?

Bible Reading: 1Cor 12:12-31.

Thought for today: You have responsibilities.

Let us pray: God help us always to be conscious that we are parts of the Church and to do our duties well – Amen.

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Saint Cornelius, Pp, and Saint Cyprian, B, Mm.

2021-09-16T04:31:00.003+01:00

Homily (Reflection) for the Memorial of Saint Cornelius, Pp, and Saint Cyprian, B, Mm., (16^th September, 2021) on the Gospel and the Memorial

1Tim 4:12-16;

Ps 110:7-10. (R.v.2);

Lk 7:36-50.

Pope Saint Cornelius (251-253) battled among other problems reconciling apostates and schism. Contrary to those who said that they should not be forgiven and those with the opinion that they should be forgiven but without heavy penance, Cornelius decreed that they must be welcomed back and insisted that they perform adequate penance. He was exiled to Civitavecchia where he died a martyr probably of hardships.

Saint Cyprian of Carthage was born to wealthy pagans around the year 190. He was converted at the age of 56, ordained a priest a year later, and made bishop two years after. Cyprian was a close friend of Pope Cornelius. He supported him both against the anti-pope Novatian and in his views concerning the re-admittance of apostates into the Church. He was martyred during the persecutions of Emperor Valerian on September 14, 258.[1]

Topic: Under many sins.

Jesus was a guest in the house of a Pharisee named Simon when a known sinner in the city came with an alabaster jar of ointment. She stood at Jesus’ feet and bathed them with her tears, dried them with her hair, kissed and anointed them with the ointment. The Pharisee was uncomfortable knowing too well the kind of person the woman was. Jesus told him a story of a creditor who had two debtors. One owed him five hundred denarii, and the other fifty. The creditor cancelled their debts when they could not pay. Jesus then asked him who among the two would love the creditor more. Simon answered, ‘I suppose the one for whom he cancelled the greater debt.’

Turning to the woman Jesus said to Simon,

Do you see this woman? I entered your house; you gave me no water for my feet, but she has bathed my feet with her tears and dried them with her hair. You gave me no kiss, but from the time I came in she has not stopped kissing my feet. You did not anoint my head with oil, but she has anointed my feet with ointment. Therefore, I tell you, her sins, which are many, have been forgiven; hence she has shown great love.

This sinful woman was before Jesus’ host and indeed the people of the city a total write-off, cf. Lk 18:11. Hence, he doubted Jesus’ authenticity just because He allowed the woman to touch His feet.

Beyond how others saw the sinful woman, she willingly supplied those things the Pharisee would have done as a host in extraordinary way. Physically, she came with only an alabaster jar of ointment yet she was able to produce enough tears out of sorrow for her sins to bathe Jesus’ feet. And without a towel, she wiped them with her pride as a sign of her humility, cf. 1Cor 11:15. She did not measure less in love because she kept kissing those feet passionately because they are better than those that bring good news, cf. Rom 10:15. And selflessly she profusely poured ointment on those feet.

All these ‘hidden under many sins’ earned her the words she needed most: “Your sins are forgiven.” And, “Your faith has saved you, go in peace.” We must come back to God with our burdens of sin for pardon. Nobody is a total write-off before God. The saints we celebrate today understood this hence they insisted on readmitting the apostates and the schism.

Bible Reading: Is 1:2-20; Lk 18:9-14; Heb 8:1-13.

Thought for today: God still loves you.

Let us pray: May the God of compassion forgive us all our sins, – Amen.

Saint Cornelius and Saint Cyprian – Pray for us.

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[1] http://www.catholicnewsagency.com/saint.php?n=596

Memorial of Our Lady of Sorrows

2021-09-15T04:55:00.003+01:00

Homily (Reflection) for the Memorial of Our Lady of Sorrows (15^th September, 2021) on the Gospel and the Memorial

1Tim 3:14-16;

Ps 110:1-6. (R.v.2);

Jn 19:25-27 or Lk 2:33-35.

We commemorate Mary’s sharing in the sufferings of her only son, Our Lord Jesus Christ. It is viewed as the fulfilment of the prophesy of Blessed Simeon, “a sword will pierce your own soul too” (Lk 2:35). Devotion to Our Lady of Sorrows became very popular in the monastic Cistercian and mendicant Servite orders in the 13th century. This memorial was first celebrated by the Servites. In 1814, Pope Pius VII extended it to the universal church. Pope Saint Pius X moved it to September 15 in 1913. The Servites also gave us the Chaplet of Our Lady of Sorrows encouraging meditation on seven events in the life of Mary.[1]

Topic: Where is Jesus’ mother?

In today’s gospel (Jn 19:25-27), while Jesus was hanging on the cross, the disciple whom He loved was standing beside His mother. Jesus said to His mother, “Woman, here is your son.” And to the disciple, “Here is your mother.” The gospel further reads, “And from that hour the disciple took her into his own home.”

Christ prayed that all His disciples may perfectly be one, cf. Jn 17:11. 21-23. However, enmity among His disciples keeps skyrocketing without a just cause. Each group claims to be God’s chosen and that He hears no other voice but theirs. Some see and treat others as pagans. As a result of the confusion, none sees anything good in whatever others do. And this affects a lot of things with particular reference to the honour due to the mother of Jesus.

Mary stood with Jesus from His conception to His death on the cross. The bible attests to this. She carried Him for nine months in her womb, cf. Lk 1:31.2:3-7. Mary and Saint Joseph presented Him in the temple, cf. Lk 2:33-35. When He remained in Jerusalem, they searched for Him for three days, cf. Lk 2:41-46. At her request, Jesus performed His first miracle when His time had not reached, cf. Jn 2:1-11. In today’s gospel, she was with Him at the climax of His suffering. She did not even retire after His death, resurrection, and ascension. She stayed and prayed with His disciples, cf. Acts 1:14. We limit ourselves to these.

Jesus promised that whoever endures to the end will be saved, cf. Matt 10:22. 24:13; Mk 13:13. Again, that He will give to those who stood by Him a kingdom, cf. Lk 22:28-30. Mary was never found wanting in any of the criteria Jesus use to reward His disciples. Therefore, since she stood so faithfully, she can’t miss now. Whoever thinks that she is given too much ought to know that it is God himself who raised her up, cf. Lk 1:28,30-33, 41-45,48-49. And she gave herself entirely, cf. Lk 1:38.

As we struggle to have Jesus as our personal Lord and Saviour, it is important also to consider the place of Mary in our lives. Immediately Jesus gave John to her, the gospel reads, “And from that hour the disciple took her into his own home”. Where do you keep Jesus’ mother?

Bible Reading: Lk 2:22-51.

Thought for today: Mary shared in Jesus’ suffering.

Let us pray: Lord, open our hearts to understand how much your mother shared in your suffering – Amen.

Our Lady of Sorrows – Pray for us.

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[1] https://www.osv.com/Magazines/TheCatholicAnswer/ChurchHistory/Article/TabId/802/ArtMID/13655/ArticleID/11007/The-Cross-Triumphant.aspx

Feast of the Exaltation (Triumph) of the Cross

2021-09-14T05:23:00.001+01:00

Homily (Reflection) for the Feast of the Exaltation (Triumph) of the Cross (14^th September, 2021) on the Gospel and the Feast

Num 21:4-9;

Ps 77:1-2.34-38. (R.v.7);

Phil 2:6-11;

Jn 3:13-17.

Emperor Constantine’s mother, Saint Helena, found the True Cross in Jerusalem in the fourth century. However, the Persians captured it and only returned it after Byzantine Emperor Heraclius defeated the Persian king Khosrau II. The feast of the Triumph of the Cross commemorates the return of the Holy Cross to Jerusalem by Emperor Heraclius in 629.[1] This feast draws our attention to the cross of Jesus, the symbol of that great gift from God. It reminds us how much God loves the world, cf. Jn 3:16.[2] And the way we ought to follow to enter eternal life.

Topic: Pick it up!

Jesus told Nicodemus that only He, the Son of Man, has ascended to heaven. He must be lifted up, “that whoever believes in him may have eternal life”. God loves the world to the point “that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not perish but may have eternal life.” He did not send the Son to condemn the world but to save the world through Him.

Today’s gospel brings out the link between faith and salvation. Eternal life (salvation) is the outcome of believing in Jesus Christ, cf. Rom 10:13; Acts 16:31. Believing in Him entails doing what He tells us, cf. Matt 7:21.

Jesus tells us, “I am the door; if any one enters by me, he will be saved...” (Jn 10:9). Entering through Him implies following Him. And it requires one denying him/herself and coming with his/her own cross, cf. Matt 10:38. 16:24; Lk 9:23. 14:27.

Carrying cross involves self abasement, cf. Matt 27:42; Mk 15:32. It demands humility, cf. Phil 2:6-8. It is not a matter of compulsion like in the case of Simon of Cyrene, Matt 27:32; Mk 15:21; Lk 23:26. It must be total and willingly too, cf. 2Cor 9:7; Philem 1:14. However, attitude towards the cross might render it powerless, cf. 1Cor 1:17.

Denying oneself and picking cross call for Christlike attitude before any cross God wills for one, cf. Matt 6:10. 26:42; Lk 22:42; Acts 21:14. Cross in question is far from two pieces of wood joined together. It is found in the undesirables that come one’s way.

Before Christ died on the cross, it was something cursed and whoever dies on it is cursed, cf. Gal 3:13. However, Christ redefined the cross by carrying and dying on it. Hence Saint Paul writes, “But far be it from me to glory except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ...” (Gal 6:14). It is disheartening that many still live with the old meaning of the cross thereby making themselves its enemies, cf. Phil 3:18. Every child of God ought to pick his/her own cross and follow Christ as required so as to be where Christ is, cf. Rom 8:17. In every situation, we ought to be Lord’s, cf. Rom 14:8.

Bible Reading: Phil 3:16–4:1; Col 1:15-23. 2:6-15.

Thought for today: ...take up your cross daily and follow Jesus, cf. Lk 9:23.

Let us pray: Lord, give me the heart to accept any cross you will for me – Amen.

Jesus Christ crucified on the cross – Have Mercy on us.

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[1] https://www.osv.com/Magazines/TheCatholicAnswer/ChurchHistory/Article/TabId/802/ArtMID/13655/ArticleID/11007/The-Cross-Triumphant.aspx

[2] https://www.franciscanmedia.org/exaltation-of-the-holy-cross-2/

Memorial of Saint John Chrysostom, B.D.

2021-09-13T04:19:00.002+01:00

Homily (Reflection) for the Memorial of Saint John Chrysostom, B.D., (13^th September, 2021) on the Gospel and the Memorial

1Tim 2:1-8;

Ps 27:2.7-9. (R. v.6);

Lk 7:1-10.

Saint John, named Chrysostom (golden-mouthed) on account of his eloquence was born in Antioch of Christian parents, about the year 344. He studied rhetoric under Libanius. In 374, he began to lead the life of an anchorite in the mountains near Antioch, but in 386 the poor state of his health forced him to return to Antioch, where he was ordained a priest. In 398, he was elevated to the See of Constantinople and became one of the greatest lights of the Church. He was exiled on account of the accusations against him from his enemies. The Pope remaining with him consoled him. He was later banished further to the very extremity of the Empire (Pythius). He died on his way there on September 14, 407.[1] Saint John is the patron saint of Constantinople, education, epilepsy, lecturers, orators, and preachers. He is venerated in Roman Catholic Church, Eastern Orthodoxy, Oriental Orthodoxy, and Church of the East.[2]

Topic: As God’s blessings abound.

A centurion in Capernaum who loves the Jews and built a synagogue for them had a slave he valued highly, who was ill and close to death. He sent some Jewish elders to ask Jesus to come and heal his slave. Jesus was already near to his house, when he sent friends to say to Jesus, “Lord, do not trouble yourself, for I am not worthy to have you come under my roof; therefore I did not presume to come to you. But only speak the word and let my servant be healed....” Jesus was amazed and said to the crowd following Him, “I tell you, not even in Israel have I found such faith.” His slave was healed instantly.

The gospel describes this centurion as both wealthy and influential person. Yet he was an epitome of so many virtues. His love was boundless. And this was far from mere words: he erected a synagogue for the Jews and sought for the cure of a slave he could afford so many of them. He taught us that one’s value is far from his/her social status. His humility was heroic. He considered himself unworthy to meet Jesus. Hence, he sent the Jewish elders to meet Jesus and also prayed through friends that He should not enter under his roof. His faith even surprised Jesus.

All we have are gifts, cf. 1Cor 4:7. God’s blessings demand much humility lest they turn to their possessors’ perdition, cf. Jas 5:3-6. Nobody takes any out of this world, cf. Ps 49:16-17. They are to be extended to more and more people to increase thanksgiving, to the glory of God, cf. 2Cor 4:15. We are expected to emulate our Lord Jesus Christ, who became poor, so that we might become rich, cf. 2Cor 8:9.

Bible Readings: Phil 2:1-11.

Thought for today: ...all things were created through him and for him (Col 1:16).

Let us pray: God open my eyes to see the worth of every creature – Amen.

Saint John Chrysostom – Pray for us.

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[1] http://www.catholic.org/saints/saint.php?saint_id=64

[2] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Chrysostom

Twenty-Fourth Sunday of the Year (B)

2021-09-12T05:07:00.002+01:00

Homily (Reflection) for the Twenty-Fourth Sunday of the Year (B) (12^th September, 2021) on the Gospel

Is 50:5-9;

Ps 114:1-6.8-9 (R. V. 9);

Jas 2:14-18;

Mk 8:27-35.

Little Tommy’s parents had tried everything to help him with his math grade: tutors, flash cards, ‘Hooked on Math’ special learning centres, everything. Finally, they enrolled him in the local Catholic school. The very first day, he came home with a very serious look on his face, went straight to his room, and started studying. His mother was amazed. Books and papers were spread out everywhere, and Little Tommy was hard at work. As soon as dinner was through, he marched right back up to his room without a word and studied more. This went on for weeks until Little Tommy proudly brought home his report card and showed it to his parents: And ‘A’ in Math!

“‘Tommy! This is great! I’m so proud of you! Son, what was it? What helped motivate you? Was it the nuns?’ his mother asked.

“Little Tommy shook his head.

“‘Well, then, was it the books? The discipline? The structure? The uniforms? What?’

“Little Tommy looked at her and said, ‘Well, Mom, it’s like this. When I saw that guy out in the lobby nailed to a plus sign, I knew they weren’t kidding around!’” Culled from Thomas, T. (2010). Spice up your homilies. Mumbai: ST PAULS, pp. 115-116.

Topic: Look Beyond the Present.

In the gospel according to Saint John, when Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother found his brother (Simon Peter) he said to him: “‘We have found the Messiah’ (which means Christ)” (Jn 1:41). And in the gospel according to Saint Matthew, Peter and his brother, Andrew “left their nets [their source of livelihood] and followed” Jesus (Matt 4:20; cf. Mk 1:18). At a point, Peter even put this question to Jesus: “Lo, we have left everything and followed you. What then shall we have?” (Matt 19:27; cf. Mk 10:28; Lk 5:11). In the same vein, sons of Zebedee made this request: “Teacher, we want you to do for us whatever we ask of you.... Grant us to sit, one at your right hand and one at your left, in your glory” (Mk 10:35,37; cf. Matt 20:21). And “when the ten heard this, they began to be angry with James and John” (Mk 10:41) which is a serious indication that they all fixed their eyes on what they would get.

And in today’s gospel we read that after Peter’s declaration about Jesus, Jesus went on to teach His disciples what would come: “...the Son of Man must undergo great suffering, and be rejected by the elders, the chief priests, and the scribes, and be killed, and after three days rise again” (Mk 8:31). Peter took Jesus aside and began to rebuke Him, (cf. Mk 8:32) after all “a bird in the hand is worth two in the bush”.

We read further, “But turning and looking at his disciples, he rebuked Peter and said, ‘Get behind me, Satan! For you are setting your mind not on divine things but on human things” (Mk 8:33). And sad enough, many Christians today, both the laity and the clergy set their minds on human things instead of on divine things. Many have forgotten completely those important questions Jesus daily asks each and every one of us: “what will it profit you if you gain the whole world but forfeit your life? Or what will you give in return for your life”, cf. Matt 16:26? You can also personalize these questions in this or similar manner: ‘what will it profit me if I gain the whole world ....’ Hence,

He called the crowd with his disciples, and said to them, ‘If any want to become my followers, let them deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. For those who want to save their life will lose it, and those who lose their life for my sake, and for the sake of the gospel, will save it (Mk 8:34-35).

Little Tommy’s grade in Mathematics changed for good because of his understanding of the image of Jesus Christ crucified on the cross. Similarly, unless we understand our call as Christians correctly, we will never cease seeing God as a political leader thereby looking forward to seeing only what we will get from Him here and now. This is because “... where your treasure is, there will your heart be also” (Matt 6:21; Lk 12:34). Our call goes beyond the present. We must therefore look beyond the present to be able to see “What no eye has seen, nor ear heard, nor the heart of man conceived, what God has prepared for those who love him” (1Cor 2:9).

Bible Reading: Matt 16:24-27; 19:13-30; Lk 5:1-11; 1Cor 2:6-16.

Thought for today: How do you see God and your call to be His child?

Let us Pray: Lord, help us to understand what it means to be your children – Amen (cf. 1Jn 3:1; 1Cor 2:14).

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Saturday of the Twenty-Third Week in Ordinary Time (I)

2021-09-11T05:11:00.004+01:00

Homily (Reflection) for Saturday of the Twenty-Third Week in Ordinary Time (I) (11^th September, 2021) on the Gospel

(B.V.M on Saturday, Opt. Mem)

1Tim 1:15-17;

Ps 112:1-7. (R.v.2);

Lk 6:43-49.

Topic: A must do.

Tree determines the fruit. What comes out of one’s mouth defines the person. Jesus questions, “Why do you call me ‘Lord, Lord,’ and do not do what I tell you?” He likens anyone who hears His words and acts on them to one who laid the foundation of his/her house on the rock. Arising of the flood and bursting of the river do not shake it. One who does not act on His words is like someone who builds a house without a foundation. And “When the river burst against it, immediately it fell, and great was the ruin of that house.”

The word of God is preached today through various means that were not available during the time of historical Jesus. Yet putting it into practise is more challenging today than ever.

We read from Saint Paul’s letter to the Romans, “...it is not the hearers of the law who are righteous before God, but the doers of the law who will be justified” (Rom 2:13). Saint James also writes, “But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves” (Jas 1:22).

Some fan themselves that God will pardon their inability to do some of His words because of the ones they do. It is important to remind ourselves that God requires us to conform fully; “...whoever keeps the whole law but fails in one point has become guilty of all of it” (Jas 2:10). So, where do you build – on the ground without a foundation or on a foundation laid on the rock?

Bible Reading: Jas 1:19-27.

Thought for today: Do His words.

Let us pray: Lord, we need your help to put all your words into action for we cannot achieve it on our own – Amen.

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Friday of the Twenty-Third Week in Ordinary Time (I)

2021-09-10T04:16:00.002+01:00

Homily (Reflection) for Friday of the Twenty-Third Week in Ordinary Time (I) (10^th September, 2021) on the Gospel

1Tim 1:1-2.12-14;

Ps 15:1-2.5.7-8.11. (R. cf. v.5);

Lk 6:39-42.

Topic: What a contradiction!

Jesus tells us that a blind cannot lead a blind without both falling into a pit. A fully qualified student will be like the teacher. He wonders,

Why do you see the speck in your neighbour’s eye, but do not notice the log in your own eye? Or how can you say to your neighbour, ‘Friend, let me take out the speck in your eye, when you yourself do not see the log in your own eye?’

This perfectly describes the situation we see in the world today. Despite much noise, we have little or nothing positive to show. One might question with Saint Paul, “Do you imagine, whoever you are, that when you judge those who do such things and yet do them yourself, you will escape the judgement of God?” (Rom 2:3)

Jesus concludes today’s gospel with this advice, “You hypocrite, first take the log out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to take the speck out of your neighbour’s eye.” God expects us to lead by example, cf. 2Cor 10:11; Matt 23:3. God’s punishment will come upon all who do not do His will and there will be no escape, cf. 1Thess 5:3. We should remove every speck and log that endangers people’s eyes. But for this to be real, each person must first remove the one in his/her own eyes.

Bible Reading: 1Pt 7-11.

Thought for today: Every product reflects its maker.

Let us pray: May God help us better our world starting from ourselves – Amen.

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Thursday of the Twenty-Third Week in Ordinary Time (I)

2021-09-09T04:29:00.002+01:00

Homily (Reflection) for Thursday of the Twenty-Third Week in Ordinary Time (I) (09^th September, 2021) on the Gospel

Col 3:12-17;

Ps 150:1-6. (R.v.6);

Lk 6:27-38.

Topic: What a difficult task.

We read from today’s gospel in part,

Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who abuse you. If anyone strikes you on the cheek, offer the other also; and from anyone who takes away your coat do not withhold even your shirt. Give to everyone who begs from you; and if anyone takes away your goods, do not ask for them again (Lk 6:27-30)

Judging from the world we live in, one wonders whether Jesus really mean these or were they part of His parables. Remember His words, “If any one comes to me and does not hate his own father and mother and wife and children and brothers and sisters, yes, and even his own life, he cannot be my disciple” (Lk 14:26).

Jesus was not joking. He only stated the fact we must bear in mind always. Christianity is a way of life. Although it is not an easy way but we must remember also what God has prepared for those who love him, cf. 1Cor 2:9. We must first endure before we can rejoice, cf. 2Tim 2:12.

Bible Reading: Lk 14:25-33.

Thought for today: ...the measure you give will be the measure you get back (Lk 6:38).

Let us pray: Lord, give us the strength to live out our call despite all difficulties – Amen.

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Feast of the Birthday (Nativity) of the Blessed Virgin Mary

2021-09-08T05:19:00.000+01:00

Homily (Reflection) for the Feast of the Birthday (Nativity) of the Blessed Virgin Mary (08^th September, 2021) on the Gospel and the Feast

Mic 5:1-4 or Rom 8:28-30;

Ps 12:6-7. (R. Is 61:10);

Matt 1:1-16.18-23 or Matt 1:18-23.

The Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary celebrates the birth of the Blessed Virgin Mary. The earliest known account of Mary's birth is found in the Protoevangelium of James (5:2), an apocryphal text from the late second century, with her parents known as Saint Joachim and Saint Anne. Saint John the Baptist and the Blessed Virgin Mary are the two saints whose birthdays are commemorated because of the singular mission each had in the salvation history.[1] This feast started about the sixth century and is venerated in Roman Catholic Church, Eastern Orthodox Church, Some Oriental Orthodox Churches, and Anglican Communion.[2]

Topic: Celebrating birthdays.

Today’s gospel is on the genealogy of Jesus Christ (Matt 1:1-16) and also how His birth took place, (Matt 1:18-23). Mary was found to be with child from the Holy Spirit when she had been engaged to Saint Joseph, but before they lived together. Joseph had decided to dismiss her quietly to save her public disgrace when the angel of the Lord told him not to do so and cleared his doubts. All these fulfilled the prophesy of Isaiah, “Look, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall name him Emmanuel” (cf. Is 7:14).

During birthdays, one of the prayers for the celebrants is for many more years. The Psalmist hints, “Which of you desires life, and covet many days to enjoy good? Keep your tongue from evil, and your lips from speaking deceit. Depart from evil, and do good; seek peace, and pursue it” (Ps 34:12-14).

Jesus asks, “For what will it profit a man, if he gains the whole world and forfeits his life? Or what shall a man give in return for his life?” (Matt 16:26) The book of Proverbs reads, “The wise man's path leads upward to life, that he may avoid Sheol beneath” (Prov 15:24; cf. Pr 14:27. 19:23). And whoever pursues righteousness and kindness will find life and honour, cf. Prov 21:21.

As we noted in the background, we celebrate Blessed Virgin Mary’s birthday today because of the role she played in our salvation history. It is important to consider every moment of our lives what we have offered to the world, cf. Eccl 6:3. It is the outcome that makes one’s life either worth celebrating or regretting, cf. Eccl 7:1. Our lives are like mist that appears for a little time and then vanishes, cf. Jas 4:14; Ps 39:4. We conclude with Saint Paul, “godliness is of value in every way, as it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come” (1Tim 4:8). Let us therefore live lives worth celebrating, cf. Eph 4:1.

Bible Reading: Prov 19:1-29.

Thought for today: Live life worth celebrating.

Let us pray: May God help us live lives good enough to be celebrated – Amen.

Blessed Virgin Mary – Pray for us.

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[1] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nativity_of_Mary

[2] http://www.americancatholic.org/features/saints/saint.aspx?id=1132

Tuesday of the Twenty-Third Week in Ordinary Time (I)

2021-09-07T03:42:00.004+01:00

Homily (Reflection) for Tuesday of the Twenty-Third Week in Ordinary Time (I) (07^th September, 2021) on the Gospel

Col 2:6-15;

Ps 144:1-2.8-11. (R. v.9);

Lk 6:12-19.

Topic: Need to pray always.

Today’s gospel is made-up of two parts, the choosing of the twelve apostles (Lk 6:12-16) and the gathering of great multitude around Jesus (Lk 6:17-19). We shall focus on the first part.

Jesus spent the night on the mountain in prayer to the Father. After that, He called His disciples and chose twelve of them, whom He also named apostles.

Supposing we find ourselves in such a situation, selecting people out of those we have known for some time, how many will deem it necessary to ask for God’s assistance (pray)? Many will certainly think otherwise. The prophet Jeremiah reads, “The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately corrupt; who can understand it? (Jer 17:9) Out of the heart of man comes every form of evil, cf. Mk 7:21. And it is only God who can search the mind and try the heart, cf. Jer 17:10a.

We need to pray always even in those circumstances we think we least need God, cf. 1Thess 5:17. Apart from God we are nothing, cf. Jn 15:5. We ought to pray always and never lose heart, cf. Lk 18:1. Whenever one stops praying, he/she is bound to sink like Peter, cf. Matt 14:30. However, before lifting our hands to God, we must ensure that they are holy and without anger or quarrelling, because both the prayer and offering of evil people are abominations before God, cf. 1Tim 2:8; Prov 3:32. 11:20. 15:8. 21:27.

Bible Reading: Jas 5:13-20.

Thought for today: The prayer of the righteous is powerful and effective (Jas 5:16).

Let us pray: Lord, teach us to pray, as you taught your disciples – Amen (cf. Lk 11:1).

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Monday of the Twenty-Third Week in Ordinary Time (I)

2021-09-06T04:23:00.003+01:00

Homily (Reflection) for Monday of the Twenty-Third Week in Ordinary Time (I) (06^th September, 2021) on the Gospel

Col 1:24–2:3;

Ps 61:6-7.9. (R. v.8);

Lk 6:6-11.

Topic: Make others smile.

It was another Sabbath day in today’s gospel, a man with withered right hand was in the synagogue where Jesus was teaching. The scribes and the Pharisees were more interested in accusations against Jesus than bettering the poor condition of the man. Jesus knew their evil intention yet He said to the man, “Come and stand here.” When he had done that, Jesus first queried, “I ask you, is it lawful to do good or to do harm on the Sabbath, to save life or to destroy it?” He then said to the man, “Stretch out your hand.” The man did so, and his hand was restored.

Some are not happy whenever they see smiles on the faces of others. And anything that brings about this instantly becomes their enemy. However, just as Jesus was not deterred, we ought to go on and restore smiles on the faces of our brothers and sisters. It is the will of God. God want us to go about doing good. And we should not be deterred. Fear not. They will not succeed for the battle is the Lords, cf. 1Sam 17:47; 2Chr 20:15.

Bible Readings: Ps 143:1-12. 146:1-10.

Thought for today: Plan and do good.

Let us pray: May God give us the strength to be ever ready to restore smiles on the faces of others – Amen.

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Twenty-Third Sunday of the Year (B)

2021-09-05T04:17:00.002+01:00

Homily (Reflection) for the Twenty-Third Sunday of the Year (B) (05^th September, 2021) on the Gospel

Is 35:4-7;

Ps 145:7-10 (R. V. 1);

Jas 2:1-5;

Mk 7:31-37.

One parish priest noticed a man who was active in virtually every activity in the parish and wanted to know more about him. He had discussed with the man for a good number of times on diverse issues. But one day, during their discursion that was smooth as usual, the priest asked him about his married life. His countenance fell immediately. And the priest was surprised and all his efforts to understand why the sudden change and to cheer him up were all abortive. At a point, the man managed to mutter: “Father, that is a closed issue that will remain so forever.”

Topic: Ephphatha (Be Opened).

The Church of England celebrates today ‘Ephphatha Sunday’ which could be loosely translated ‘Opening Sunday’ [Sagayanathan, A. (2009). Launching Pad: Stories for Sunday Homilies, Year-A, B & C. Bangalore: Asian Trading Corporation, p. 214]. And we read in today’s gospel how the people brought a deaf man who also had an impediment in his speech to Jesus and begged Him to lay his hand on him, cf. Mk 7:32. The gospel further narrates,

He took him aside in private, away from the crowd, and put his fingers into his ears, and he spat and touched his tongue. Then looking up to heaven, he sighed and said to him, ‘Ephphatha,’ that is ‘Be opened.’ And immediately his ears were opened, his tongue was released, and he spoke plainly (Mk 733-35).

The book of Genesis tells us that after creation, “God saw everything that he had made, and indeed, it was very good” (Gen 1:31). Among God’s creatures, humans were made in the image and likeness of God, cf. Gen 1:26; 5:1; Jas 3:9. Yet when

The Lord saw that the wickedness of humankind was great in the earth, and every inclination of the thoughts of their hearts was only evil continually. And the Lord was sorry that he had made humankind on the earth, and it grieved him to his heart (Gen 6:5-6).

Jesus came to remake creation that had been badly wounded by sin (the wickedness of man), cf. Jn 1:14; Zeph. 3:17. Hence, He tells us that He came that we may have life, and have it to the full, cf. Jn 10:10.

In today’s gospel, Jesus looked up to heaven because “Our help is in the name of the Lord, who made heaven and earth” (Ps 124:8). And the prophet Isaiah rightly noted that those “… who wait for the LORD shall renew their strength, they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint” (Is 40:31).

When the people saw what Jesus did in today’s gospel they said, “He has done everything well” (Mk 7:37). A question for each and every one of us is, ‘What do people say when they see our (co-creators) works; do they regret ever meeting us just as God first regretted that He made man because of man’s wickedness or do they give praise to God who made us (cf. Gen. 1:26-27, 28; Lk 18:43)?

We all need the healing touch of Jesus in different areas of our lives to enable us hear the word of God and proclaim it to the glory of God. Many areas of our lives are entirely closed like the ear of the man Jesus cured in the gospel. Other areas although not entirely closed but are poorly used. Many relationships like the man who told his parish priest that his married life is a closed issue because of the pains from the separation with his wife need the healing touch of Jesus. That same Jesus who restored the wholeness of the man that was brought to Him is still at work and wants each and every one of us to come to Him with our joys, pains, sorrows, disappointments, heartbreaks, and so on. He can and also is willing to restore all of us. Jesus also wants us to open up all closed avenues through which He wishes to reach others through us. Just as Jesus put His fingers into that man’s ears, spat and touched his tongue and looking up to heaven, sighed and said to him, ‘Ephphatha,’ He wants us to do our part and look up to Him in faith for the rest.

Father Sagayanathan goes further to write on the need “to open up the various areas of our life and the ailments of our bodies that require Abba’s blessing, Jesus’ healing touch and the empowering breath of the Holy Spirit.

“Let’s whisper, ‘Ephphatha! Be opened’ to each part of our body, and every avenue of our existence:

“Be opened, my eyes, May I see everything beautiful and the One who made it so.

“Ephphatha, all eyes, may we see the evil lurking behind structures and our role in it.

“Be opened my ears, let the symphonies of Nature resound in the recesses of my soul.

“Ephphatha, all ears, let the cries of the poor and the powerless disturb our smugness.

“Be opened, my mouth, to sing psalms and poems for the wonders God works today.

Ephphatha, all mouths, to speak against untruth and injustice that silences the lowly.

“Be opened my heart, for the whole world to find some place and some space therein.

“Ephphatha, all hearts, breaking down divisions of high-low, rich-poor, pure-impure.

“May ... [we be opened] to a new week, a new life, a new world” [Sagayanathan, A. (2009). Launching Pad: Stories for Sunday Homilies, Year-A, B & C. Bangalore: Asian Trading Corporation, pp. 214-215].

Bible Reading: Gen. 1:26-31; 6:1-7; Is 35: 1-6; Rom 10:5-21.

Thought for today: Where do you need to open?

Let us Pray: Lord, we plead with you to heal every part of our body that is impaired that we may praise you fully in our lives – Amen.

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