Feast of Mary, Mother of God: New Year: January 1, 2023

                  MARY, THE MOTHER OF GOD

First Reading: Numbers 6: 22-27

Second Reading: Galatians 4: 4-7

Gospel Reading: Luke 2: 16-21

   * First reading is from the book of Numbers. The Lord God instructs Moses to tell the priests to bless the people of Israel in His name. The chosen people are to be blessed by these words: "The Lord Bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face to shine upon you, and be gracious to you....I will bless them." With the Blessed Mother Mary, we too seek the blessings of the Lord God throughout the year 2023.

   * Second reading is from the letter of St. Paul to Galatians. Paul tells the Christians in Galatia and us that by giving us His own Son, through Mary, God enables the whole humankind to become His sons and daughters in whose hearts the spirit of God cries: "Abba, Father". 

Mary with the Child Jesus in the manger                                                            Today's Gospel reading is from St. Luke. The meeting of shepherds with Child Jesus and Mother Mary in the manger is described. The eagerness of the simple, humble shepherds to pay homage to the divine Child and Mary's reflective and contemplative mood are graphically depicted. By our celebration of the New Year, coinciding with the Feast of Mother of God, we are celebrating the feast of all mothers. It is a fitting tribute to Mother Mary that she is the perfect model for all mothers. God showered Mary with numerous blessings. So we too invoke God's blessings on all mothers today. Blessed Mother was a simple, humble, peasant woman. Yet, Harward historian Harry Adams calls her, 'the most powerful religious symbol for centuries'. 

May the Blessed Mother Mary, Mother of God bless you all through the coming year 2023. 

"Mary is given to us as a mother to accompany us on our tiring pilgrimage through life." - Pope Paul VI

"As mariners are guided by the shining of a star, so Christians are guided to heaven by Mary". - St. Thomas Aquinas

CHRISTMAS: A: December 25, 2022

               BIRTH OF JESUS OUR SAVIOR

First Reading: Isaiah 9: 1-7

Second Reading: Titus 2: 11-14

Gospel Reading: Luke 2: 1-14

   *First reading is from the book of Prophet Isaiah. Isaiah speaks about the messianic hope of a Savior who will rescue the chosen people of the Lord God from their bondage and slavery. He assures the people that the child to be born will be a wonderful Counselor, mighty God, everlasting Father and Prince of peace. With the birth of Jesus, this prophecy of Isaiah finds its fulfillment. He is the Lord and Savior of all humankind. 

   *Second reading is from the letter of St. Paul to Titus. Paul reminds Titus and all of us that Christ has been revealed as God's living and loving grace and salvation of all. He encourages us to live sober and righteous lives because God in Christ has brought about salvation to all. 

Silent night, Holy night,..........a Savior is born                                      Today's Gospel reading is from St. Luke. Luke gives us a beautiful and most touching description of the night when Jesus our Savior and Lord is born. It is the story of heavenly angels, about shepherds taking care of their sheep and most important, Blessed Mother Mary with Child Jesus in the manger. The Christmas story unlike many other stories, is based on a historical event which took place more than 2000 years ago in a little village called Bethlehem. It is the story of the birth of Jesus the Lord. God's unending love for humankind is expressed through the birth of Jesus. His love is inviting everyone to the manger like those Shepherds at the first Christmas night. Christmas brings us peace and joy. That is why that night the angels sang, "Glory to God in the highest and peace on earth to men of goodwill". Yes, to receive the peace of the Lord, we need to be persons of goodwill. When Jesus took birth in Bethlehem in a manger, the humble, simple Shepherds are invited to meet Him and receive the blessings of the divine Child. Child Jesus is inviting each one of us to the manger to receive His bountiful blessings.

                      MERRY CHRISTMAS!

Fourth Sunday of Advent: A: December 18, 2022

 THE MYSTERY OF THE VIRGIN BIRTH

First Reading: Isaiah 7: 10-14

Second Reading: Romans 1: 1-7

Gospel Reading: Matthew 1: 18-24

   *First reading is from the book of Prophet Isaiah. Isaiah foretells the birth of a very special child. He would be called Emmanuel. Ahaz the King of Judah is in great distress. The Prophet encourages him to have faith in the Lord God. Isaiah's constant message to the King is to trust in the Lord God. Further, the Prophet invites Ahaz to ask for a sign from the Lord God. The King refuses to ask for a sign. However, the Prophet tells Ahaz that he would be given a sign by the Lord God:  A son will be born whose name will be Emmanuel- GOD WITH US. 

   *Second reading is from St. Paul's letter to Romans. The opening lines from Paul to the Christian community in Rome is mentioned. Paul refers to the human and divine 'roots' of Jesus. He describes Jesus as a descendant of David and Son of God who is the fulfillment of all the prophecies of the past. 

Emmanuel: God with us                                                                                 Today's Gospel reading is from St. Matthew. The fulfillment of the prophecy of Isaiah is mentioned. Jesus is seen as the royal child of the house of David; born of a virgin. In Jesus, the dynasty of David continues. He is not only the son of David but also Son of God. Jesus is born of a virgin mother Mary. Mary's virginity points to the truth that Jesus is conceived without the intervention of a human father. A virgin mother has no precedent in any religious traditions. As we approach Christmas the prophecy of Isaiah and its fulfillment in Matthew's Gospel is brought for a specific purpose. It is to remind all of us that even in our most distressing situations of life, difficulties, disappointments and pains, God is with us. It is in those painful times that we realize the immense power and the greatness of the Almighty.

"Christmas is not a season, but a state of mind. To cherish peace and goodwill, to be plenteous in mercy, is to have the real spirit of Christmas." - C. Coolidge

"Christmas is doing a little something extra for someone." - C.M. Schulz

                 MERRY CHRISTMAS!

          May the Emmanuel born in Bethlehem Bless everyone.

Third Sunday of Advent: A: December 11, 2022

 IMMINENT COMING OF THE LORD

First Reading : Isaiah 35: 1-6 and 10

Second Reading: James 5: 7-10

Gospel Reading: Matthew 11: 1-11

   *First reading is from the book of Prophet Isaiah. Isaiah foretells the return of the people of Israel from the Babylonian captivity as the Lord God rescues them. Isaiah urges us that we too should look beyond our sorrows and disappointments of the present with great hope in God's love and His saving actions in our lives. The Prophet encourages us to cheer up and not be afraid because the Lord God will save us.

   *Second reading is from the letter of St. James. The Apostle stresses the quality which all of us find it hard to obtain- patience. He urges us to be loving and patient with one another and be patient regarding the Lord's final coming. He  gives us the example of the prophets who underwent various sufferings but always went about patiently. 

Are you the one who is to come?                                                          Today's Gospel reading is from St. Matthew. The predicament of John the Baptist regarding Jesus is narrated. All of us have some unfulfilled hopes and unanswered prayers and John too faced a problem regarding the identity of Jesus. "Are you the one or shall we look for another?" is the question put by John. Hopes of John the Baptist regarding Jesus as the promised Messiah is not entirely fulfilled. John is imprisoned by Herod. In the prison, he is confused about Jesus. The question put by John is raised by many even today. Jesus' answer to the messengers of John is to observe what is happening around them. Jesus asks them to tell John concerning their experience of Him: Sight to the blind, lame walking, dead are raised to life and the good news being preached to the poor. Are there such experiences in our lives that would make us commit to Jesus? Today Jesus gives us the same message- to look around and see the presence of God and His benevolent power among us. Look around and see God's mighty manifestations of love and the great power of God in the universe. When our hopes are broken and our dreams are shattered, let us not get disappointed and disheartened but rather  place our total trust in the Lord. 

"A prison cell, is which one awaits, hopes- and is completely dependent on the fact that the door to freedom has to be opened from outside, is not a  bad picture of advent." - Dietrich Bonhoeffer

"Want to keep Christ in Christmas? Feed the hungry, clothe the naked, forgive the guilty, welcome the unwanted, care for the ill, love your enemies and do unto others as you would have done unto you." - S. Maraboli

Second Sunday of Advent: A: December 4, 2022

 ADVENT PREPARATIONS: REPENTANCE

First Reading: Isaiah 11:1-10

Second Reading: Romans 15: 4-9

Gospel Reading: Matthew 3: 1-12

   *First reading is from the book of Prophet Isaiah. Isaiah describes the person of Messiah when He comes. He will be an ideal king who will bring two great gifts into the world: Two gifts the world is in  great need of- justice and peace. The signs of His kingdom are seen in the nature too; the wolf dwelling with the lamb; the leopard lies down with the kid; the calf and the lion live together. There is no hurt or destruction in nature. Advent is the  ideal time to prepare for the coming of the Messiah: The king of peace and justice. 

   *Second reading is from St. Paul's letter to Romans. Paul speaks about the importance of hope. He says that Jesus Christ is the hope of all humans. In Him we find hope, harmony and peace. Just as Jesus welcomes everyone to share the joys of His kingdom, we must extend a welcome to one another united in body and mind to offer glory to God. 

John's call to repentance                                                                                      Today's Gospel reading is from St. Matthew. We have the call of John the Baptist in the wilderness. John invites everyone to repent, for the kingdom of God is close at hand. John's appearance in the wilderness is rather eccentric. He wears a garment of camel's hair with a leather belt. He eats locusts and honey. John calls the people from all  walks of life to repentance and to be baptized. Hence John's invitation for everyone is to have a change of heart. John warns that those who do not change their lives will face punishment. John recalls the infidelity of Israel . He speaks of the promised Messiah who would be more than he and who would exercise His authority and judgement. Thus the call to repentance that we hear in the season of Advent is addressed to all of us. We need to look into the areas in which we need to change. Hence we need to be transformed and to be touched by the forgiving love of God. Unless we accept our sins and failures and correct them, we cannot truly prepare for the coming of the Lord. 

"Repentance means change and it takes a humble person to change." - E.T. Benson

"Of all acts of man, repentance is the most divine." -Thomas Carlyle

"How else but through a broken heart may the Lord Jesus Christ enter in." - Oscar Wild

First Sunday of Advent: A: November 27, 2022

            ADVENT PREPARATIONS

First Reading: Isaiah 2: 1-5

Second Reading: Romans 13: 11-14

Gospel Reading: Matthew 24: 37-44

   *First reading is from the book of Prophet Isaiah. Isaiah gives a vision of universal peace with the coming of Messiah. At that time, people of Israel experience great distress and pain. He speaks about a future messianic kingdom where all people will be united and will enjoy great peace. We are challenged by Isaiah to work for a new world order which is inaugurated by the coming of Messiah, Christ the Lord.

   *Second reading is from the letter of St. Paul to Romans. Paul reminds us that it is time to wake up since our salvation is close at hand. We need to turn away from the darkness of evil and walk in the light of Christ to be true witnesses of that light. 

The coming of Jesus the Messiah                                                         Today's Gospel reading is from St. Matthew. We are urged to stay awake because we do not know the day or the hour when Christ the Lord comes again. Jesus uses an unusual imagery of a thief coming at night. He warns us not to be engrossed in worldliness so as to forget what is most important - doing God's will. We need to be alert and watchful at all times. Through this metaphor of a thief coming unexpectedly, Jesus instructs us the following: 1. We are warned to be vigilant. 2. The time of the coming of the Lord cannot be predicted or calculated. 3. Disciples are to be engrossed with  their assigned mission but not to spend time in speculations.                 We know from experience that thieves often break in and steal when we least expect them. Secrecy is their best weapon. Similarly, the day and the hour of Christ's coming is unknown to us. That necessarily implies that our lives must be a constant preparation for His coming. Hence, the first Sunday of Advent sets our sights on life's horizon when Christ comes to us again. For many people today, the presence of Christ means very little. It is our duty to make Christ's presence real for the unbelievers and doubters. Advent firmly gives us the message: 'Stay awake...watch because Christ is certainly coming into our lives'. 

"Only that day dawns to which we are awake." - H.D. Thoreau

"Arise, awake and stop not, until the goal is reached." - Swami Vivekananda

Thirty-fourth Sunday of the Year: C: Feast of Christ the King: November 20, 2022

 JESUS THE KING OF THE UNIVERSE

First Reading: 2 Samuel 5: 1-3

Second Reading: Colossians 1: 12-20

Gospel Reading: Luke 23: 35-43

   *First reading is from the second book of Samuel. Anointing of David as King is described. David is anointed as King of Judea. Later northern tribes too accept him as their King. Hence David becomes de-facto king of the whole of Israel. David's kingship becomes a pre-figuration of the  universal kingship of Christ the Lord.

   * Second reading is from the letter of St. Paul to Colossians. Paul gives thanks to God for having delivered humankind from the dominion  of darkness and brought us to the kingdom of His beloved Son Jesus. Christ is the image of the invisible God and head of the Church and He is also the Lord of all creation. 

The true identity of Jesus the King                                                                           Today's Gospel reading is from St. Luke. An inscription placed above the cross of Jesus, "Jesus of Nazareth, the King of the Jews", proclaims the true identity of Jesus the King. Jesus is the Messiah (the anointed one)and the King. Even as He dies on the cross, He gives consolation and forgiveness to all those around Him. There are many people below the cross of Christ: soldiers, Pharisees and many by-standers who mock and challenge Him saying,"If you are the King of the Jews, save yourself." Again, when the thief on His right pleads saying,"Jesus, remember me when you are in your kingdom,"  Jesus immediately assures Him a place in paradise. As He is dying on the cross, He calls His mother and the beloved disciple and entrusts His mother to the disciple and tells His mother, "This is your son." - pointing to the disciple. Hence Jesus' final gift to every believer is His mother to be our heavenly mother. Christ's kingdom is a very special kingdom. He has come not to conquer but to love. He has come not to have possessions but to give them away (even His own beloved mother) to us.Thus Jesus is the King of our hearts and our minds. 

"Hungry for love, He looks at you. Thirsty for kindness, He begs you. Naked for loyalty, He hopes in you. Homeless for shelter in your heart, He asks you. 'Will you be that one to Him?'" - St. Mother Teresa of Calcutta.

"Rome is gone, Napoleon is gone, Hitler is gone, but the kingdom of Jesus marches on." - D. Guzik

Thirty - third Sunday of the Year:C: November 13, 2022

 THE END OF THE WORLD

First Reading : Malachi 4: 1- 2a

Second Reading: 2 Thessalonians 3: 7-12

Gospel Reading: Luke 21: 5-10

   *First Reading is from the book of Prophet Malachi. A vivid description about the end of the world is given. Malachi severely warns the arrogant and those who disobey  the Lord God. He gives a message of comfort and consolation to those who fear the Lord God and live upright lives. Hence for evil doers, it will be a  day of judgement. But for the upright, it will be a day of salvation.

   *Second reading is from the Second letter of St. Paul to Thessalonians. Paul severely criticizes those who in the community live idle lives and are a burden to the community. He gives his own example to be imitated and urges those who idle their lives to work and earn their living.

By your endurance you will gain your lives                                                              Today's Gospel reading is from St. Luke. The end of the world is described in great detail. Jesus speaks of the total destruction of the city of Jerusalem and predicts disaster for the rest of the world. In future there will be nothing left in Jerusalem to admire. He gives us some warning and timelines about the events to come. 1. At the end of times, there will be proliferation of pretenders - those who try to deceive people and lead them astray. Jesus warns us not to go after them. 2. There will be  wars and nations fighting each other. The possibility of a third world war and total destruction of the world is always on the horizon. 3. Jesus speaks about earthquakes, plagues and famines in various places. We are well aware of the many natural disasters and man-made disasters taking place in different parts of the world. 4. Further, Jesus warns us that His followers will face many persecutions for their faith in Him. 5. Finally Jesus speaks of betrayals: Betrayals by friends and family and community. But He assures us that we His followers need not worry because, "Not a hair of your head will perish. By your endurance you will gain your lives." We are invited to take these warnings of the Lord seriously in our lives so that we can face the end of the world when it happens. 

"Anyone who truly loves God travels securely." - St. Teresa of Avila

"Even death is not to be feared by one who has lived wisely." - Buddha

"What the caterpillar calls the end of the world, the Master calls a butterfly." - Richard Bach

"The end of every episode is the end of the world." - G.K. Chesterton

Thirty-second Sunday of the Year: C: November 6, 2022

 THE RESURRECTION OF THE DEAD

First Reading: 2 Maccabees 7: 1-2 and 9-14

Second Reading: 2 Thessalonians 2: 6 to 3:5

Gospel Reading: Luke 20: 27-38

   *First reading is from the second book of Maccabees. An assurance is given that our faith in the Lord God dispels all fears in us. We become strong and courageous and even ready to die for Him only to be raised to an everlasting life with the Lord God. The readiness of the seven Jewish brothers to die rather than violate one of the laws of the Lord God is a source of great inspiration for everyone who has faith in eternal life. 

   *Second reading is from the second letter of St. Paul to Thessalonians. Paul prays for God's grace so that the Christians in Thessalonica (we too) may be able to remain steadfast in faith. God is the source of all comfort and strength in our lives. We who follow Jesus will do well in living and proclaiming His word and remaining united with the Lord in faith.

A Life after death                                                                                                   Today's Gospel reading is from St. Luke. We have a very enlightening discussion between Jesus and Sadducees regarding the resurrection of the dead. Sadducees do not believe in the resurrection of the dead because for them the consequences of life after death are rather ridiculous and meaningless. Some questions like: Where would one accommodate in the next world all those tens of thousands of people who die everyday? How could anyone rectify all those messed up human relationships which take place in the present life? So they cleverly craft this question about a poor widow who is married to seven brothers (one after another) and finally she too dies without having children from any of those marriages. The question is: Whose wife will she be in at the resurrection? Jesus simply overlooks their silly question and tells them that their understanding of the resurrection of the dead is totally absurd. He tells them about Abraham, Issac, Jacob and Moses: All of them command great respect and reverence in the Jewish community. These men of God did not die for nothing. God is not a God of the dead but of the living.                                                                                         In this month of November we remember our dead and pray for our departed near and dear ones because we believe that there is life after death. It is the same with resurrection of the dead. "What is sown is perishable but what is raised is imperishable." - 1 Corinthians 15:42

"Dawn and resurrection are synonymous. The reappearance of light is the same as the survival of the soul."- Victor Hugo

" I don't care to inquire why they cannot believe an earthly body can be in heaven, while the whole earth is suspended on nothing." - St. Augustine

"Who would believe that the caterpillar becomes a butterfly unless he has seen it? If we can accept that, how can we deny that death can be transformed into life?" - Anon

Thirty-first Sunday of the Year:C: October 30, 2022

       THE INFINITE LOVE OF GOD

First Reading: Wisdom 11: 22 to 12: 2

Second Reading: 2 Thessalonians 1: 11-22

Gospel Reading: Luke 19: 1-10

   *First reading is from the book of Wisdom. The greatness and love of the Lord God towards the whole creation is narrated. It was out of love that the Lord God created the world and everything in it. Therefore He does not desire the destruction of the world or the death of humankind. The Lord God is always ready to pardon the sins of those who repent and return to Him. 

   *Second reading is from the Second letter of St. Paul to Thessalonians. Paul urges the Christians in Thessalonica to be worthy of their call. He assures them that God will help them to be true to it. Paul explains to them that their salvation would be glory both for them and for Jesus Christ. At the same time, he asks them not to be too anxious about the second coming of the Lord. He pleads with them to continue to live a good Christian life everyday allowing God to work in their lives.

Jesus meets Zacchaeus the tax collector                                                                    Today's Gospel reading is from St. Luke. A graphic description about Jesus meeting Zacchaeus the tax collector of Jericho is narrated. After meeting Jesus, Zacchaeus responds to the invitation of Jesus in a wholehearted way. That day in Jericho, there are large crowds. On inquiry Zacchaeus comes to know that Jesus of Nazareth the miracle worker is passing by. He desires to see Jesus just once - it is a chance of a life time. Since he is short in stature, he climbs a sycamore tree on the road side and sits on one of the branches. Jesus along with His disciples comes that way. The most unexpected and amazing thing happens in the life of this little rich man. Jesus looks up and says, "Zacchaeus, come down, for I must stay at your house today." Zacchaeus is very thrilled but he is also confused. So he comes down from the tree and takes Jesus to his house. Till that meeting with Jesus, Zacchaeus only desired for money and more of it. But that chance encounter with the Lord changes everything in his life. He knows very well that all the riches he has amassed are done dishonestly. So he gives half of what he owns to the poor and declares that he would repay fourfold anyone he cheated. Jesus' presence totally and irrevocably changes this man. No wonder Jesus told him, "Today salvation has come to this house." Today the Lord is passing by and inviting each one of us to come down from the tree (we sit on). Let nothing stand between us and Jesus. 

"The first step in a person's salvation is knowledge of his sin." - L.A. Seneca

"Human salvation demands the divine disclosure of truths surpassing reason." - St. Thomas Aquinas

Thirtieth Sunday of the Year: C: Mission Sunday: October 23, 2022

                                 THE MISSION

The celebration of the Mission Sunday is a reminder for all of us regarding our duty to live our faith and to share it with others.

First Reading: Isaiah 60: 1-6

Second Reading: Romans 10: 9-18

Gospel Reading: Matthew 28: 16-20

   *First reading is from the book of Prophet Isaiah. Isaiah speaks about the light that has come to Israel when the whole world is in darkness. Nations and Kings will come to Israel to see this light. The prophecy of Isaiah finds its fulfillment in Jesus the true light.

   *Second reading is from the letter of St. Paul to Romans. Paul emphatically states that believing in Jesus and professing that He is the Lord is necessary for our salvation. Others can come to faith in Jesus only if there are people to preach the message of Christ to them. Paul reminds all Christians to preach the message of Jesus to non-believers so that everyone can be saved. 

Preach the Gospel to all nations                                                                               Today's Gospel reading is from St. Matthew. The mission command of Jesus to His disciples is narrated. Before ascending to heaven, Jesus gives His mission command to the disciples. They are asked to go to all nations:To preach and to make disciples and baptize them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Jesus makes it imperative for all His disciples to preach to all nations. Hence by this command the Lord removes all obstacles and distinction between Jews and people of other nations so that everyone can be part of His heavenly Kingdom. The Lord thus commands His disciples to go to a distance in order to spread the good news in every part of the world. Thus the prophecy of Isaiah (49:6) 'I shall make you a light to all nations so that my salvation may reach the remotest corners of earth' comes to fulfillment. Hence it is the duty of every Christian to continue the mission entrusted to the disciples by the Lord Jesus. On this Mission Sunday, the Church reminds all members about this sacred duty so that everyone will come to know that Jesus is indeed the saviour of the world. In the final section to today's Gospel Jesus promises His abiding presence with His disciples till the end of times. 

"The Church by its very nature is missionary." - Vatican II (AD2)

"Preach the Gospel at all times and when necessary use words." - St. Francis Assisi

"A small body of determined spirits fired by an unquenchable faith in their mission can alter the course of history." - M.K. Gandhi

Twenty Nineth Sunday of the Year: C: October 16, 2022

           PERSEVERANCE  IN PRAYER

First Reading: Exodus 17: 8-13

Second Reading: 2 Timothy 3: 14 to 14:2

Gospel Reading: Luke 18: 1-8

   * First reading is from the book of Exodus. This is a description about the first battle fought by Israelites after their deliverance from Egypt. Joshua and the men of Israel are at war with Amalek. During the time of the war Moses, Aron and Hur prays for the victory of Israel. Moses prays to the Lord God with outstretched hands. Aaron and Hur support Moses to pray with persistence and eventually Joshua wins the war with Amalek. Hence Moses' prayer plays a key role in giving the Israelites their victory. 

   *Second reading is from the Second letter of St. Paul to Timothy. Paul instructs Timothy that all Scripture is inspired by God and to be used profitably for teaching, reproof, for correction and for training. He urges Timothy to preach the Word of God in season and out of season and to be zealous in preaching the message of Jesus always. 

The persistence of a widow                                                                         Today's Gospel reading is from St. Luke. Jesus explains to His disciples the need to be persevering in our prayers. He teaches them through a parable: The parable of the unjust Judge and a poor widow. This woman approaches the Judge on several occasions for justice against her adversary. The Judge refused to listen to her and to do anything about her complaints. But due to her persistence, the Judge finally decides to give her justice. Using this parable, Jesus teaches His disciples and us that we are not to lose heart when we pray to God and do not receive what we ask for. We have to be persistent in our plea to God. He assures us that God will certainly give justice to His elect who cry to Him day and night. We should try to end all our prayers with the perfect prayer: 'Thy will be done.' Let us continue to pray but leave the result to God. 

"Prayer is the oil that keeps the lamp of faith burning brightly." - St. Mother Teresa of Calcutta

"Prayer helped me through every crisis. But I had to purify my prayer and remove from it all elements of self-seeking. I learned even to pray for my interrogators." -Walter Ciszek SJ (A Jesuit priest who spent 23 years in a concentration camp in Siberia)

Twenty Eighth Sunday of the Year: C: October 9, 2022

                THE VIRTUE OF GRATITUDE

First Reading: 2 Kings 5: 14-17

Second Reading: 2 Timothy 2: 8-13

Gospel Reading: Luke 17: 11-19

   *First reading is from the second book of Kings. We have the story of Naaman the commander of the Syrian Army who was a leper. He comes to know from his servant girl that there is a great prophet in Israel who can heal him from his leprosy. He comes to Prophet Elisha to be healed from his ailment. Elisha instructs him to wash himself seven times in the river Jordan. After much hesitation and persuasion from his servants, he washes himself in Jordan and is healed from his leprosy by the mighty power of the Lord God of Israel. As a result, Naaman expresses his faith in the Lord God. He is full of gratitude to Elisha and the Lord God. Through this miracle, the Lord God extends His healing touch to the people of other religious and cultural traditions. 

   *Second reading is from the second letter of St. Paul to Timothy. Paul exhorts Timothy to carry on the mission entrusted to him for the sake of the Gospel and for Jesus Christ. Timothy is reminded that preaching the Gospel will not be easy. It will bring much hardships, opposition and persecution.

Gratitude of the Samaritan leper                                                                Today's Gospel reading is from St. Luke. The healing of ten lepers by Jesus is narrated in detail. After being healed by the Lord, only one man, a Samaritan returns to thank Him. Jesus is surprised by their response. So He asks the one who came back, "Were not ten healed? Where are the other nine?". In fact, all the ten are healed by the Lord. But except this Samaritan, none of the others returns to thank Him. Their skin is healed but for the rest, it all remains the same. We do not know the reason why the other nine fail to show their gratitude to the Lord. This incident should help us to look into our own lives and ask why we are often found wanting to thank the Lord for the many blessings we have received and our failure to thank someone who did a favour to us in the past. Expressing gratitude and being thankful is a great virtue and should be practiced consciously. Whatever may be the reasons for our lack of gratitude, it diminishes us and those who help us. As someone said,"Ingratitude makes the bill for helping people hard to pick up." THANK YOU LORD, FOR ALL YOUR BOUNDLESS BLESSINGS. A prayer of thanks: "Thank you Lord that I can see, so many are blind. Thank you Lord that I can hear, so many are deaf. Thank you Lord that I can walk, so many are crippled. Thank you Lord that I have food, so many are hungry. Thank you Lord that I have shelter, so many are homeless. Thank you Lord for the friendship, so many are lonely. Help me Lord always to be grateful."

"When it comes to life, the critical thing is whether you take things for granted or take them with gratitude." - G.K. Chesterton

"Gratitude is not only the greatest virtue, but the parent of all virtues." - M.T. Cicero

"In ordinary life, we hardly realize that we receive a great deal more than we give and that it is only with gratitude that life becomes rich." - Dietrich Bonhoeffer

Twenty Seventh Sunday of the Year: C: October 2, 2022

THE NEED TO PRAY FOR A DEEPER FAITH

First Reading: Habakkuk 1: 2-3 and 2: 2-4

Second Reading: 2 Timothy 1: 6-8 and 13-14

Gospel Reading: Luke 17: 5-10

   *First reading is from the book of Prophet Habakkuk. Habakkuk pleads with the Lord God in great distress and desperation. He is faced with political insecurity on the one hand and widespread idolatry on the other hand. The Lord God responds by promising him that He will save those who trust in Him. He gives him courage and strength to face the imminent trials. The Lord God promises that the righteous person will live by his faith. 

   *Second reading is from the second letter of St. Paul to Timothy. Paul urges Timothy to continue to preach and persevere in the faith he received from God. Paul instructs Timothy and us that we should never be afraid or be ashamed of bearing witness to Christ who has strengthened us by His Holy Spirit. 

"Lord, increase our faith."                                                                             Today's Gospel reading is from St. Luke. The Apostles realize their own lack of faith. Consequently, they request Jesus to increase their faith. Jesus gives two teachings. In the first part, Jesus explains to them about faith as small as a mustard seed. Such a faith, He says, is powerful enough to uproot a sycamore tree and plant it in the sea. Transplanting a tree in the ocean is nothing short of a  spectacular miracle and in human terms practically impossible. In the second part of the Gospel Jesus reminds us that to have faith in God is to carry out our responsibilities in life quietly and with total dedication. In His own life, Jesus puts His faith into His daily activities. As a result, He is able to feed the five thousand with five loaves and two small fish. He heals many who were affected by dreaded diseases and evil powers. He cures the blind and the deaf and even raises the dead to life. By His own examples, Jesus makes the Apostles realize what faith can accomplish in their lives. Today Jesus is inviting all of us to have faith in God in all challenging situations of life. Then we too will be able to do many mighty works in our lives and in the lives of others. Like the Apostles we need to pray for an increase of faith.

"Faith is to believe what you do not see, the reward of this faith is to see what you believe." - St. Augustine

"To one who has faith, no explanation is necessary. To one without faith, no explanation is possible." - St. Thomas Aquinas 

Twenty Sixth Sunday of the Year: C: September 25, 2022

 THE PERILS OF NEGLECTING THE POOR

First Reading: Amos 6: 1 and 4-6

Second Reading: 1 Timothy 6: 11-16

Gospel Reading: Luke 16: 19-31

   *First reading is from the book of Prophet Amos. Amos speaks to the wealthy people of Judah and of Israel. He sternly warns the complacent who live luxuriously and neglect the poor and the needy. They do not care for the plight of the poor. Besides, their conduct will bring disaster to the whole nation. 

   *Second reading is from the first letter of St. Paul to Timothy. Paul encourages Timothy in his pastoral care. He gives the example of Jesus who was always faithful to His call in the face of hostility and even death. He exhorts that  Christians should lead a life of righteousness, love and kindness and they should be always faithful to God's call. 

The parable of the rich man and Lazarus                                                                           Today's Gospel reading is from St. Luke. The parable of the rich man and Lazarus is narrated in detail. The rich man (who is not named in the parable) lives a lavish life - expensive clothing, sumptuous meals and palatial houses are at his disposal. Whereas, Lazarus the poor man - sick, sores all over the body and starving - is lying at the gate of the rich man. During his lifetime on this earth, the rich man enjoys life to the brim.  Whereas Lazarus suffers much and finally dies. The sin of the rich man consists not in what he did but rather what he did not do for this poor man who was in dire need. Finally the rich man too dies. Death is a leveler of all inequalities.The reversal of fortunes is the central theme of the parable.With death the roles of the rich man and Lazarus are dramatically and irrevocably reversed. Now, it is the turn of the rich man to get some attention from Abraham and the pity of Lazarus who is enjoying the comfort in next life. But it is too late. An abyss separates them and it is an abyss for which the rich man himself is responsible. The parable graphically explains what happens when we enjoy our wealth selfishly showing little or no concern for the poor and the downtrodden of the society. Jesus' parable invites us to live more simply to share more readily and to live more fully so that we can be truly followers of the Lord Jesus. It is said, "A  person's wealth consists not in what he keeps but in what he gives away."

"The parable declares that they who abound in earthly riches, unless they will relieve the necessities of the poor, shall meet with a heavy condemnation." - St. Cyril of Jerusalem 

"The biggest disease in the world today is the feeling of being unwanted (like Lazarus at the gate of the rich man). And the greatest evil in the world today is the lack of love." - St. Mother Teresa of Calcutta

Twenty Fifth Sunday of the Year: C: September 18, 2022

                              DO NOT TO SERVE TWO MASTERS 

First Reading: Amos 8: 4-7

Second Reading: 1 Timothy 2:1-8

Gospel Reading: Luke 16: 1-13

   *First reading is from the book of Prophet Amos. Amos was a great champion of social justice during his lifetime. He severely criticizes the exploitative structures of the society and announces the Lord God's wrath on those who oppress and persecute the poor. He strongly condemns and deprecates the so-called 'religious' people waiting impatiently for the Sabbath to end so that they can get on with their dishonest activities. 

   *Second reading is from the first letter of St. Paul to Timothy. Paul urges Timothy to lead his community in offering prayers, intercession, adoration and thanksgiving to God especially for those who hold public office. Because God wants everyone to be saved. 

Faithfulness in little = Faithfulness in much                                                         Today's Gospel reading is from St. Luke. In the first part, the parable of the dishonest manager is narrated. When the manager  is about to be dismissed from his job by his master, he cleverly makes friendship with his master's debtors by reducing their debt which they owe to the master. Deals are made and his future is secured. Jesus does not commend the dishonesty of the man but praises him for his resourcefulness and cleverness to deal with a crisis situation using his master's wealth. If that is the case with earthly wealth which is transitory, Jesus warns us to be more enterprising in using worldly things for gaining eternal life. In the second part, Jesus warns us that no one can serve two masters - God and Mammon. These two do not go together. If we are too much attached to worldly possessions, God takes a backseat and gradually God is forgotten. We cannot be faithful and devoted to two masters. So also with God and Mammon (in Aramaic Mammon means riches/ treasure). Hence the message is that the only way we can be trusted with possession or wealth is if they do not possess us. 

"Those who set out to serve both God and Mammon soon discover that there is no God." - L.P. Smith

"God does not create poverty. We do because we do not share what we have." - St. Mother Teresa of Calcutta

Twenty Fourth Sunday of the Year: C: September 11, 2022

           THE LOVING AND CARING GOD

First Reading: Exodus 32: 7-11 and 13-14

Second Reading: 1 Timothy 1: 12-17

Gospel Reading: Luke 15: 1-10

   *First reading is from the book of Exodus. The chosen people of God disobeyed the Lord God and went away from Him. They turned their back on their Lord and Saviour who brought them out of the slavery of Egypt. They went after other gods and worshiped idols made of human hands. Moses pleads with the Lord God for the people who committed sins and became idolaters. The Lord God listens to the plea of Moses and spares them from destruction and punishment. 

   *Second reading is from the first letter of St. Paul to Timothy. Paul recalls his sinful past and expresses his gratefulness and thanks to God and for the infinite mercy of the Lord Jesus Christ. He admits that Christ came into the world to save sinners. Through his own conversion Paul experiences the love and mercy of God. 

The Good Shepherd                                                                           Today's Gospel reading is from St. Luke. Jesus graphically illustrates for us the love and mercy of God for the least and the lost ones through two parables. The Pharisees complain that Jesus is socializing with the sinners and outcasts of the society. In this context, Jesus narrates two parables: The parable of the Good Shepherd and the parable of the lost coin. In the first parable, Jesus portrays God as a Shepherd who has 100 sheep. When one of them is lost, he leaves the other ninety nine and goes after the lost one. The Shepherd goes after the lost one because of two reasons. First of all, the lost sheep by itself cannot find its way back. Secondly, the Shepherd loves everyone of his sheep and he is in great distress when one of them is lost. Similarly, the heavenly Father, when we His children go astray and get lost, is in great pain. He searches for the lost one till He finds it. The second parable is about the lost coin. A woman has 10 coins in her purse. When one of them is lost, she searches diligently for the lost one till she finds it. The lost coin might have been a part of her ancestral possessions  representing the most precious possession and her future security( as suggested by some of the biblical scholars). She relentlessly searches for it until she finds the lost coin. When she finally finds it, she is filled with great joy. Hence no matter how deep we fall or how far we wander from the loving and merciful God, He never gives up on us. He searches for us until He finds us. Every one - the least and the lost - is very very important and precious in the sight of God. 

"There is no saint without a past, no sinner without a future." - St. Augustine

Twenty Third Sunday of the Year: C: September 4, 2022

                 THE COST OF DISCIPLESHIP

First Reading: Wisdom 9: 13-18

Second Reading: Philemon 9-10 and 12-17

Gospel Reading: Luke 14: 25-33

   *First reading is from the book of Wisdom. Faced with the mysteries of the universe, we are ignorant of the meaning , history and the mind of the Lord God. But  the Lord God has bestowed us with the gift of wisdom. The Lord God sends His Holy Spirit so that we may always walk in the right path so as to conduct our affairs prudently.

   *Second reading is from St. Paul's letter to Philemon. Paul advises Philemon concerning his slave Onesimus who had run away and somehow reached Paul who was in prison.Listening to Paul, Onesimus became a believer in the Lord Jesus. Paul urges Philemon to take Onesimus back not as a  slave but as a beloved brother in Christ. 

Renunciation, the most important condition for discipleship                                            Today's Gospel reading is from St. Luke. Jesus explains to his prospective followers the cost of being His disciple. The context is that of Jesus' instructions to His would-be disciples. He tells them that to follow Him, first and foremost, they should evaluate and count the cost of  being a disciple. He makes two demands: The first is, to hate one's family and even one's own self. The second is that one has to take up one's crosses and follow Him. Hence Jesus makes it clear that one must be ready to sacrifice one's dearest things in life: Family ties and one's own very self. In certain situations in life,  a disciple may have to choose between Jesus and what is very dear to him/her. Jesus further explains this message through two parables. He makes it clear that discipleship has to be taken seriously. It could mean that a disciple has to undergo many sufferings, persecutions and even death. History of the Church reminds us that discipleship had cost much sufferings and bloodshed. As in any other sphere of life, one has to weigh the pros and cons before taking a final decision. Hence, one must calculate the cost before venturing to become a disciple of Jesus. Accepting the cross gives us immense graces that will lead us to eternal life. Blessed Mother Mary is the perfect example of true discipleship.

"The first call which every Christian experiences is the call to abandon the attachment to this world." - Dietrich Bonhoeffer

"The key (to discipleship) is not to ignore life's demands but simply to integrate them to your life of faith. That is why Jesus teaches that we are to seek the Kingdom first and then all else will be provided." - D.M. Bickerstaff

"To deny oneself is to be aware only of Christ and no more self." - Dietrich Bonhoeffer  

Twenty Second Sunday of the Year: C: August 28, 2022

 HUMILITY, THE MOTHER OF ALL VIRTUES

First Reading: Sirach 3: 17-20 and 28-29

Second Reading: Hebrews 12: 18-19 and 22-29

Gospel Reading: Luke 14: 1 and 7-14

   *First reading is from the book of Sirach. A description about the great virtue of humility is given. It tells us that a humble person is open to the promptings of the Lord God and never rejects wisdom, no matter where it comes from. Humility is the sign of true greatness. The greater a person is, the more humble he/she should be. The message is: be humble and you will find favour with the Lord God. 

   *Second reading is from the letter of St. Paul to Hebrews. A comparison between Mount Sinai and Mount Zion is given. It elaborates that, Sinai is the place where the old Covenant was made whereas Zion stands for the heavenly Jerusalem which is the goal of Christian pilgrimage. It is in this heavenly city where many angels, saints and Jesus Himself will be present.

Whoever humbles himself will be exalted                                                                 Today's Gospel reading is from St. Luke. Jesus and His disciples are invited to a Pharisee's house for dinner. Many prominent people from the town are invited too. Most of them are eager to take the best available seats because each of them considers himself to be more important than all others. Observing this, Jesus teaches His disciples a lesson in humility. He instructs them the following: When you are invited to a function, do not occupy places of honour. Because in case a person more worthy than you is invited, the host may come and request you to give the honourable place to that person. Consequently you will be put in an embarrassing and humiliating situation. However, if you are occupying a less honourable place and the host requests you to occupy a more honourable place, you will be honoured in the presence of everyone present. Hence the virtue of humility is of great importance in the life of a follower of Christ. It ranks right up there with the great Gospel values. Thus for Jesus, to lose one's life is to find it. The last shall be the first and the humble shall be exalted. 

"Do you wish to raise yourself: Begin by humbling yourself." - St. Augustine

"We come nearest to the great when we are great in humility." - Rabindranath Tagore

"It is in being humble that our love becomes real, devoted and ardent." - St. Mother Teresa of Calcutta

Twenty First Sunday of the Year:C: August 21, 2022

                   UNIVERSAL SALVATION !

First Reading: Isaiah 66: 18-21

Second Reading: Hebrews 12: 5-7 and 11-12

Gospel Reading: Luke 13: 22-30

   *First reading is from the book of Prophet Isaiah. Isaiah speaks about a time of universal salvation. He elaborates that the Lord God is going to gather all nations and language groups into one fold. The Lord God in His goodness, love and mercy wants to gather the dispersed people and bring reconciliation to everyone. Further, the Prophet assures us that people will come to Jerusalem from all nations and they will bring offerings to the Lord God. For priestly duties too, persons will be selected from every nation. 

   *Second reading is from the letter of St. Paul to Hebrews. The Apostle explains that every father disciplines his son/daughter. If we are disciplined and chastised by God, it is a sure sign that God treats us as His own children. God trains us, His children through many sufferings  so that we may grow to maturity and reach our goal. Hence discipline, training and perseverance are essential prerequisites of the final glory that we will experience in the future. 

Men will come from east and west.                                                                    Today's Gospel reading is from St. Luke. One of the listeners questions Jesus regarding the number of people who will be eventually saved. He is obviously anxious to know about his own salvation and the salvation of others. In His reply Jesus exhorts everyone to enter by the narrow door. Then He narrates the parable of a house owner (God) who closed the door (at night) and many desire to enter through that door. They give many reasons so that they could gain admittance: eating and drinking with him, living in his neighbourhood etc. But the Master of that house is not convinced and dismisses them from his presence. Further, Jesus adds that many people from east and west, north and south (universal salvation) will enter the kingdom of God. It is our personal choice whether to enter through the narrow door (difficult life) which leads us to eternal life or to enter through the wide door (easy life) which leads us to eternal damnation. Hence the message is that entering the kingdom of God is not restricted to just a few people but people from every nationality and various communities. The path of Jesus (the narrow door) gives access to the kingdom of God. 

"In our times a lot of Catholics only profess to believe but their deeds are opposed to their belief." - Catherine  H Doherty

"Jesus came to bring integral salvation, one which embraces the whole person and all mankind." - St. John Paul II (Pope)

Twentieth Sunday of the Year: C: August 14, 2022

THE PROPHETIC MISSION OF THE DISCIPLES

First Reading: Jeremiah 38: 4-6 and 8-10

Second Reading: Hebrews 12: 1-4

Gospel Reading: Luke 12: 49-53

   *First reading is from the book of Prophet Jeremiah. A detailed description of the persecutions and the many sufferings Jeremiah underwent is given. He is accused of treason by his bitter enemies. They want to destroy him. They put him in a well deep down, covered in mud and water upto his knees. They torture him because he speaks against the injustice, evil and sins committed by the chosen people of God. However the Lord God protects him from all harm. 

   *Second reading is from the letter of St. Paul to Hebrews. The Apostle exhorts all Christians to persevere in their faith regardless of the cost. He also encourages them to resist all temptations to sin till the last drop of their blood. 

I came to cast fire on earth.                                                                  Today's Gospel reading is from St. Luke. Jesus warns His disciples and all of us that following Him is a very difficult task. It brings division in the life of a believer. So they are called to declare their loyalties and get their priorities right. Discipleship brings division within the family and in the community. Jesus speaks about a divided house: three against two. There will be divisions between father and son, mother and daughter and so on. When we stand for the values of Christ, family ties may get broken and relationships may get strained. Hence a true follower of Christ is a threat - a source of division, a light that shows up in the darkness. Such a person will be opposed by those who want to remain in darkness. Through today's Gospel Jesus exhorts us that as Christians we have to stand up against all evil - all that leads us away from genuine love of God and of neighbour. Jesus demands such a prophetic mission from His disciples. 

"When I give bread to the poor, they call me a saint. But when I ask why the poor have no bread, they call me a communist." - Helder Camera

"If they kill all your priests and bishops, each one of you should become God's microphones, each one of you should become a prophet; I do not believe in death without resurrection." - Blessed Oscar Romero (Martyred Arch Bishop of El Salvadore) 

Nineteenth Sunday of the Year: C: August 7, 2022

     TO HAVE FAITH AND TO BE FAITHFUL

First Reading: Wisdom 18: 6-9

Second Reading: Hebrews 11: 1-2 and 8-19

Gospel Reading: Luke 12: 32-48

  *First reading is from the book of Wisdom. It reminds the people of Israel how the Lord God rescued their ancestors from the slavery of Egypt. The message is one of hope. The author promises that those who put their trust in the Lord God will not be disappointed. The chosen people of God are encouraged to persevere in their faith. Just as the Lord God rescued the people of Israel in the past, He will save those who put their trust in Him. 

   *Second reading is from the letter of St. Paul to Hebrews. The Apostle recalls the great and unshakable faith of Abraham. Because of his deep faith in the Lord, Abraham is rightly called the father of faith. The faith of Abraham led him to set out without knowing where he was going. He totally trusted in the providence of  God and looked forward to a city built by God. Hence in the life of Abraham, we have a marvelous and shining example of living faith and total faithfulness to God. 

Many blessings to the faithful servant                                                        Today's Gospel reading is from St. Luke. In the first part, Jesus tell His disciples and us about the heavenly treasure which cannot be stolen or destroyed. And in the second part, Jesus narrates the parable of the faithful servant who is always found to be watchful whatever may be the time of his Master's return. The Master unexpectedly and without warning comes like a thief who comes at any time of the night. The element of surprise is his weapon. So also the (second) coming of the Lord will happen at a time we least expect. We must be prepared to welcome the Lord whenever he chooses to come. Such a faithful servant will be greatly rewarded by the Master. The Master will put him in charge of all the Master's possessions. But if the servant is found wanting and unfaithful in his attitude, he will receive very severe punishment. Jesus exhorts all of us to take our life seriously and to do our duties faithfully. 

"It is more important to be faithful than to be successful." - St. Mother Teresa of Calcutta.

"Only the person who has faith in himself is able to be faithful to others." - Erich Fromm

"Faithfulness is not doing something right once but doing something right, over and over and over and over." - Joyce Meyer

Eighteenth Sunday of the Year: C: July 31, 2022

 WORLDLY RICHES V/S ETERNAL HAPPINESS

First Reading: Ecclesiastes 1: 2 and 2: 21-23

Second Reading: Colossians 3: 1-5 and 9-11

Gospel Reading: Luke 12: 13-21

   *First reading is from the book of Ecclesiastes. The immense troubles we undertake to acquire material wealth even though it brings us little security are narrated. Life makes no sense if it has no deeper goal than achieving worldly possessions and success. Because this world and all it holds are nothing but sheer folly and emptiness in the sight of the Lord God.

   *Second reading is from the letter of St. Paul to Colossians. Paul reminds the Christian community at Colossia and all of us that we are a new creation in Christ. We have to turn our attention from worldly things and seek the things of heaven. Because, having been raised up with Christ in baptism, we have to keep God as the center of our lives and avoid the things that endanger eternal joy. 

The parable of the rich fool                                                                              Today's Gospel passage for our reflection is from St. Luke. Jesus illustrates the parable of the rich fool. This parable was told in the context of a  dispute between two brothers regarding their property. Jesus was asked by one of them to mediate and divide their inheritance between them. Jesus reminds him and all of us that life is much more than the abundance of a person's possessions. Then Jesus tells the parable of the rich man. He is extremely wealthy and yet he desires to store up his bumper crop for greater security and happiness. Jesus calls him a fool because he neglected three most important factors for real and lasting happiness. 1. He forgot God - he does not even have a little thought that all his possessions are gifts from the Almighty. 2. He forgot eternal life - he is merely looking for temporal happiness in this world. 3. He totally ignores his obligation to the poor and to the needy. This parable seriously warns everyone of us to take stock of the things and possession in our lives in the context of eternal life. 

"Happiness is when what you think, what you say and what you do are in harmony." - Mahatma Gandhi.

"Happiness is not having what you want, but wanting what you have." - Anon

"Where your pleasure is, there is your treasure; where your treasure is, there is your heart; where your heart is, there is your happiness." - St. Augustine. 

Seventeenth Sunday of the Year: C: July 24, 2022

               HOW SHOULD WE PRAY?

First Reading: Genesis 18: 20-32

Second Reading: Colossians 2: 12-14

Gospel Reading: Luke 11: 1-13

   * First reading is from the book of Genesis. Abraham prays to the Lord God for the people of Sodom and Gomorrah. People of those cities grievously sinned against the Lord God. The Lord God decides to destroy those two rebellious and wicked cities. But Abraham intercedes and pleads with the Lord God to spare them from destruction. Even if the number of righteous in those cities are as few as fifty/ forty five/ forty/ twenty or merely ten, Abraham wants the Lord God to be merciful to them. The Lord God promises Abraham that for the sake of even ten righteous persons in those cities, He will not destroy them. 

   *Second reading is from St. Paul's letter to Colossians. Paul explains to the Christian community in Colossia that in baptism, they are buried with Christ and are raised with Him. Hence through baptism a believer is inserted into Christ's death and resurrection. Thus a baptized person once and for all dies to the sinful way of life and is raised to live a new life of grace.

The Lord's prayer                                                                             Today's Gospel reading is from St. Luke. Jesus teaches His disciples how to pray through the prayer 'Our Father'. It is a prayer for all times and for all occasions. Every relationship between us and our heavenly Father is taken care of in it. The aspects that Jesus considers and that we too should consider include the following: 1. Accepting God as our heavenly Father and praising Him. 2. Praying for our daily needs - food in particular. 3. Praying that we may be able to forgive others so that we in turn may be forgiven by God. 4. Praying that we may be able to overcome our temptations - for no one can say that we are not tempted. 5. Praying that we may be delivered from the power of evil. When we pray the prayer 'Our Father' or any other prayer, let us ask for what we need but let us be contented by what the Lord gives us; 

"If we pray, we will believe; if we believe, we will love; if we love, we will serve." - St. Mother Teresa of Calcutta.

"Pray as though everything depended on God. Work as though everything depended on you." - St. Augustine.

"Prayer is not asking. It is a longing of the soul. It is a daily admission of one's weakness. It is better in prayer to have a heart without words than words without a heart." - Mahatma Gandhi. 

"Prayer doesn't change  things - it changes us. If we are diligent in seeking God, slowly and surely we become better people." - Joyce Meyer.

Sixteenth Sunday of the Year: C: July 17, 2022

            THE VIRTUE OF HOSPITALITY

First Reading: Genesis 18: 1-10

Second Reading: Colossians 1: 24-28

Gospel Reading: Luke 10: 38-42

   *First reading is from the book of Genesis. The hospitality shown to three strangers by Abraham and how he welcomes them is narrated. By welcoming those three, he in fact is welcoming the Lord God. Abraham displays the warmth of eastern hospitality. He washes their feet and invites them to take rest. Meanwhile Sarah his wife prepares a sumptuous meal and waits inside a tent. The hospitality of the couple is amply rewarded and the Lord God promises them a son in answer to their deepest desire. 

   *Second reading is from St. Paul's letter to Colossians. Paul elaborates to the Christian community at Colossia and all of us his experiences of sufferings for Christ the Lord. He explains that in our own sufferings we are never alone: Christ is always with us drawing us closer and closer to Him. In the person of Jesus, God really walks among His people, accepting their hospitality and teaching them God's immense love for us. 

The hospitality of Martha and Mary                                                              Today's Gospel reading is from St. Luke. We meet two sisters - Martha and Mary - who show great hospitality to Jesus when He visits them. Martha becomes fully engaged in preparing a meal while Mary sits at the feet of Jesus and listens to His life-giving teachings. Martha is busy to the point of distraction. She thinks Mary should be doing something more urgent than just listening to Jesus. Jesus listens to Martha's complaints and makes His own observations: that Martha is busy and anxious about many things which are trivial. In all her fret and fuss, Martha is missing one thing that is needed: to welcome the Lord by listening to His precious words. Jesus praises Mary for setting the priorities right. Hence true hospitality according to Jesus is to listen to His Word and live according to it. Listening to the Word of God should take precedence over all our other cares and concerns. The way we continue to have God as our guest is when we welcome His Word and act upon it. 

"True hospitality is marked by open response to the dignity of each and every person." - K. Norris.

Fifteenth Sunday of the Year: C: July 10, 2022

            LOVE OF ONE'S NEIGHBOUR

First Reading: Deuteronomy 30: 10-14

Second Reading: Colossians 1: 15-20

Gospel Reading: Luke 10: 25-37

   *First reading is from the book of Deuteronomy. Moses exhorts the people of Israel to keep the commandments of the Lord God so that they turn to the Lord God with all their hearts and with all their souls. These commandments are easy to obey because they are in the very heart and soul of every person. 

   *Second reading is from the letter of St. Paul to Colossians. Paul describes the incarnate Word, the  Lord Jesus as the true image of God in human form. He is pre-eminent and supreme to everything created. He is the head of the Church and He brings reconciliation to the whole creation. 

The parable of the Good Samaritan                                                                              Today's Gospel reading is from St. Luke. Jesus presents to us the wonderful, touching parable of the Good Samaritan for our reflection and action. A lawyer puts a very pertinent question to Jesus. The question is, "Who is my neighbour?" In response, Jesus tells the parable of the Good Samaritan. What is most disturbing in Jesus' parable is not so much the attack made on an innocent man. But those two  respectable persons - a Priest and a Levite- pass by the unfortunate person without showing any compassion or concern. Because for both of them, the first question that came to their mind was, "What will happen to me if I stop and help this wounded man?" Whereas the first question that came to the mind of the Samaritan was, "What will happen to this wounded man if I don't take care of him?" In a similar situation, like the Priest and the Levite in the parable, many of us may have ample excuses not to help those in need. It is much easier and safer to go on the other side of the road as they did. But the Samaritan brushed aside all such thoughts and opened his heart to the wounded man. He goes out of his way to help this unfortunate victim. Jesus dramatically answers the question put by the lawyer through this most touching parable. He challenges everyone of us to be a neighbour to whomever our good will must go out.  Jesus tells the lawyer , "Go and do likewise." The same Jesus is telling us too to be a neighbour to whoever is in need of our help.

"It is easier to love humanity as a whole than to love one's neighbour." - Eric Hoffer.

"Love begins at home; love your family and your neighbours. Share with the poor and the needy around you - your smile, your word, your time, your belongings." - St. Mother Teresa of Calcutta. 

Fourteenth Sunday of the Year: C: July 3, 2022

               THE HARVEST IS PLENTIFUL

First Reading: Isaiah 66: 10-14

Second Reading: Galatians 6: 14-18

Gospel Reading: Luke 10: 1-12 and 17-20

   * First reading is from the book of Prophet Isaiah. During the Babylonian exile, the people of Israel had to suffer much. Isaiah consoles them in their innumerable sufferings and hardships. He encourages the returned exiles to rebuild the holy city of Jerusalem. Isaiah compares Jerusalem to a mother who nurses her children at her breast - a moving imagery of peace, contentment and love.

   *Second reading is from the letter of St. Paul to Galatians. Paul insists that the Christian life is a new existence: that is, becoming Christ-like in everything. Paul explains to the Christian community at Galatia that though he had to suffer much illness, flogging and stoning, he bears the marks of Christ's passion on his body. For Paul, nothing else matters but to keep Christ crucified ever in mind.

The harvest is plentiful, but the labourers are few                                                           Today's Gospel reading is from St. Luke. Jesus sends his seventy disciples on a mission journey. He instructs them regarding the tough task ahead of them and the tremendous opposition they will face. He also asks them to lead a radical way of life like that of a wandering preacher - one who faces persecutions, homelessness and renunciation of family ties and loss of all material things. They are not to be encumbered with extra luggage of any sort. They are not to spend time on the wayside for the so-called chitchats and small talks. They are not to look for comfortable places of stay. They are to be content with whatever is available and provided by the people. Hence  single-minded devotion to the entrusted task is the hallmark of a disciple of Jesus. Like those disciples, Jesus sends each one of us with the command, 'Be on your way, go into your neighbourhoods, schools and offices, proclaim my peace, heal in my name and make my presence felt wherever you are'. It is up to us to respond wholeheartedly to the call of the Lord. 

"Preach the Gospel everyday, if necessary use words." - St. Francis of Assissi

Thirteenth Sunday of the Year: C: June 26, 2022

            THE CALL TO DISCIPLESHIP

First Reading: 1 Kings 19: 16 and 19-21

Second Reading: Galatians 5: 1 and 13-18

Gospel Reading: Luke 9: 51-62

   * First reading is from the first book of Kings. The call of Elisha to be a prophet of the Lord God is narrated in detail. Prophet Elijah was instructed by the Lord God to appoint Elisha to succeed him. When called, Elisha responds immediately with great enthusiasm. Elisha bids farewell to his father and mother. Then he slaughters the oxen he was ploughing with and cooks a meal with the yoke and eats the flesh. Elisha leaves everything he has - all that holds him back from being a disciple of Elijah - and follows the prophet of the Lord God. 

   *Second reading is from the letter of St. Paul to Galatians. The Apostle Paul instructs the Galatians about Christian freedom. He explains to them and us that Christian freedom is not for self indulgence but a total self-surrender to the love of God. The Apostle warns them that despite their union with Christ and the gifts of the Holy Spirit which they received in the past, they have to constantly struggle against the flesh - earthly temptations - which will do its utmost to lead them to sin and slavery.

The cost of discipleship                                                                            Today's Gospel reading is from St. Luke. In spite of the many challenges involved, Jesus resolutely takes the road to Jerusalem. A shameful death awaits Him there. He demands the same type of commitment from His disciples. On His way to Jerusalem, three persons meet Him. To the first one who wants to follow Him, Jesus warns him that there is hardly any place of rest for him, if he wishes to follow Him. The second person is called by Jesus. But he expresses his inability to follow Jesus because of his religious duty of burying his father who is dead. But Jesus sharply tells him, "let the dead bury their own dead" - implying that Jesus extends the boundaries of religion beyond dead traditions. A third person wants to follow Jesus but before that he wants to bid farewell to his family members. He too is found wanting because of his attachment to his family. Hence following Jesus is of such importance that there is no room for any excuses, compromises or for any kind of half-hearted responses.   

"When Christ calls a man, he bids him come and die." - Dietrich Bonhoeffer

"Christianity without Christ is inevitably Christianity without discipleship and Christianity without discipleship is always Christianity without Christ." - Dietrich Bonhoeffer 

Feast of Corpus Christi : Sunday: C: June 19, 2022

 FEAST OF THE BODY AND BLOOD OF CHRIST

First Reading: Genesis 14: 18-20

Second Reading: 1 Corinthians 11: 23-26

Gospel Reading: Luke 9: 11-17

   *First reading is from the book of Genesis. A description about Melchizedek's- the king of Salem- meeting with Abraham is given. Melchizedek offered bread and wine to Abraham and he made a profession of faith in one true God. In Christian tradition, the symbol of bread and wine is a pre-figuration of the Eucharist: the body and blood of Christ. 

   *Second reading is from the first letter of St. Paul to Corinthians. Paul instructs the Christians in Corinth regarding the first Eucharistic celebration at the last supper. Paul explains to them and to us that when we celebrate the Eucharist we are not merely making Christ's body and blood present but in fact we are re-enacting His death by which Jesus brought salvation to the humankind. 

The miracle of loaves                                                           Today's Gospel reading is from St. Luke. The details of the multiplication of five loaves and two fish by Jesus in the desert is narrated. On that day Jesus fed more than five thousand people with five loaves and two fish. He worked this miracle in the desert out of compassion for the people so that those who followed Him may not die due to hunger on their return journey home. At the last supper Jesus shared His own body and blood for us so that we might have eternal life by participating in the Eucharist. There are mainly four reasons why we celebrate the feast of Corpus Christi. 1. First of all, this feast is celebrated to reaffirm our faith that Jesus is truly and really present in the Eucharistic bread and wine. The bread and wine we partake in the Eucharist are transformed into the precious body and blood of Christ. 2. Secondly, this feast is celebrated as a reparation for all the blasphemy, irreverence and dishonour done to the Eucharistic Lord. 3. Thirdly, this feast is celebrated to give thanks for all the graces and blessings we have received through the presence of the Lord in the Blessed Sacrament. 4. Fourthly, this feast is celebrated in order to make us aware of the great gift of the Eucharist and the need to receive the Holy Communion frequently to obtain spiritual nourishment for our daily tasks. May the Body and Blood of Christ give us eternal life!

"God dwells in our midst in the Blessed Sacrament of the altar." - St. Maximilian Kolbe

"In each of our lives Jesus comes as Bread of life - to be eaten, to be consumed by us. This is how He loves us." - St. Mother Teresa of Calcutta

"If Christ did not want to dismiss the Jews without food in the desert for fear that they would collapse on the way, it was to teach us that it is dangerous to try to get to heaven without the Bread of Heaven." - St. Jerome

The Feast of Holy Trinity: C: June 12, 2022

 THE MOST HOLY TRINITY: ONE GOD AND THREE PERSONS

First Reading: Proverbs 8: 22-31

Second Reading: Romans 5: 1-5

Gospel Reading: John 16: 12-15

   *First reading is from the book of Proverbs. The Wisdom of God which came into existence before the whole of creation - the earth and all that it contains and the heavens and everything in it - is described. The idea of Wisdom is a pre-figuration of the revelations of the mystery of the Holy Trinity. Wisdom stands for the Son of God - the eternal Word- who exists from the very beginning. 

   *Second reading is from the letter of St. Paul to Romans. The trinitarian aspect of God is explained by St. Paul. Paul tells us that we experience peace with God through Jesus. This gives us the hope which sustains us even in times of suffering and pain. Further he adds that the love of God is poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit. Therefore it is the Holy Spirit who helps us to recognize the Father's love for us. 

The Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit                                                                         Today's Gospel reading is from St. John. Jesus promises the Holy Spirit to His disciples. The Lord explains to us that the work of the Holy Spirit is manifold: to guide us into all truth and to give us guidance for future. Holy Spirit also glorifies Jesus. The feast of the Holy Trinity reminds us that there is only one God but has three persons each living in harmony and in perfect unity. The mystery of the Holy Trinity is not something to argue about or even to study. It is more of something to pray, meditate and to live. The Christian lives in the world of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. We need to realize that God is our Father and that we are His children. God loves us even though we are unworthy of His love. Christ the Son of God is our brother. He died and brought salvation to all humankind. Through Him all humans are brothers and sisters. The Holy Spirit is the bond of love between the Father and the Son and the humankind. Let our prayer to the Holy Spirit be that we too may experience the same love and unity which is present in the most Holy Trinity. 

"Given that God the Father is both personal and supremely good, it is proper to think of Him as loving a person from eternity. This other person is the Son and the love between them is the Holy Spirit." - St. Thomas Aquinas on Trinity.

"The only way to engage God is to meet one of the three in time. We meet the Father as creator, the Son as redeemer and the Holy Spirit as the dispenser of God's grace." - T. Wilson

The Feast of Pentecost: C: June 5, 2022

 THE DESCENT OF THE HOLY SPIRIT ON THE APOSTLES

First Reading: Acts 2:1-11

Second Reading: 1 Corinthians 12: 3-7 and 12-13

Gospel Reading: John 20: 19-23

   *First reading is from the Acts of the Apostles. A detailed account of the happenings on the first Pentecost is given. The Apostles were gathered in a particular place in Jerusalem. Suddenly the Holy Spirit descends on them and rests on them as tongues of fire. Filled with the Holy Spirit the Apostles speak in different  tongues. People who came to Jerusalem from various countries are able to listen to the Apostles in their own native languages. Hence at the first Pentecost the Holy Spirit removes all barriers and divisions among the humankind due to languages, races and cultures, and unites them in the one body of the risen Lord. 

   *Second reading is from the first letter of St. Paul to Corinthians. Paul speaks of the various gifts given by the Holy Spirit to the believers. He exhorts the Christians in Corinth and all of us to use these gifts for the good of all without exception. Although we are different from each other, we form one body of the risen Lord. We belong to each other in our common bond with the Lord Jesus. 

Receive the Holy Spirit                                                                             Today's Gospel reading is from St. John. The context is that the risen Lord meets the disciples who were fear-stricken and were hiding from the Jewish authorities. The Lord appears to them and wishes them peace and gives them the gift of the Holy Spirit. Then He sends them on His mission. The effects of receiving the Holy Spirit are manifested on Pentecost day. They are no more afraid of the Jews or afraid of anyone for that matter. They openly and fearlessly preach in Jerusalem about the terrible death and the glorious resurrection of the Lord Jesus. Hence from that day the disciples begin to speak as the Holy Spirit prompts them. Until that day the Apostles stayed behind closed doors but from that day they are ready to launch out into the open with boldness and courage. The outpouring of the Holy Spirit has an immediate effect on the early Christian community as a whole. After the tragic death of Jesus, the disciples were in total disarray. But now they find new strength in their oneness. They are united in mind and heart. Let us also open our hearts to the Holy Spirit so that He may transform our lives and we become committed to the Lord.

"Breath in me, O Holy Spirit/ that my thoughts may all be holy.          Act in me O Holy Spirit/ that my work too may be holy.                  Draw my heart O Holy Spirit/ that I love but what is holy.           Strengthen me O Holy Spirit/ to defend all that is holy.        Guard me then O Holy Spirit/ that I always may be holy.                          - St. Augustine's prayer to the Holy Spirit