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Friday, March 15, 2024

Time of Judgement of this World!

05th Sunday of Lent: March 17, 2024

Readings: Jeremiah 31:31–34Psalm 51:3–412–1314–15Hebrews 5:7–9John 12:20–33

The judgement comes at the end. However, there is a preparation and time for judgment. All that starts well not necessarily must end well. Often a bad starting will have a bad ending. Still, a bad end is not a real end in terms of the life of Jesus. As we inch closer to the final days of Lent where we recount the journey of Jesus namely his passion, death and resurrection, on this fifth Sunday of Lent, the Church invites us to look at the reality of life in its wholeness. What is that making our life meaningful? Where is the ultimate prize for our earthly life? These are the questions, the liturgical readings of this Sunday evoke in us.

1. The desire to see Jesus and the paradox of Christian discipleship

The passage from the Gospel of John 12:20–33 presents a rich ground for spiritual and contextual reflections. The Word of God captures a pivotal moment in Jesus' ministry, namely sacrifice, service, glory, and the paradox of life through death. The passage begins with some Greeks, representing the Gentile world, expressing their desire to see Jesus. There is certainly universal appeal of Jesus' message and his popularity has grown even beyond the Jewish community.  Even the Greeks are longing for something spiritual, to connect with the divine, to find meaning and purpose in life. Jesus seems to be their answer.

Jesus is very paradoxical in his explanation to the questions of the Greeks and his disciples. Jesus speaks about his glorification, the time, the grain of wheat, the death of the grain and so forth. For the Gospel writer St John, the turning point is Jesus' movement towards His crucifixion; it is not a triumphant worldly glory but glory achieved through suffering and death. The divine love carries with it self-giving, sacrifice, and transformation. The Christian discipleship is also a paradox where to truly live means that one must die for oneself. This means letting go of selfish ambitions, pride, and ego, and live a life of service, humility, and love. 

2. The Divine Voice from Heaven and the cost of discipleship

The Word of God also speaks about the voice from heaven affirming a divine endorsement of Jesus' path and mission. There is a genuine interconnectedness between Jesus' actions and the will of the Father, emphasizing the unity of purpose in the divine plan of salvation. When we do things which are meant to bring glory to God must always be sparked by the divine whispers. Divine interventions and affirmations are quint essential to see that whatever we do or seek aligns with God's purpose even though it might be a difficult decision. The forces of evil or darkness exist in this world. But by listening to the voice of God, we can live authentic disciples of our Lord even in the midst of forces of darkness. 

Jesus speaks about the judgment of the world and the driving out the forces of evil. A spiritual battle is often being fought by us both within and around us. Therefore, we need to maintain steadfast faith in the Lord, and an intense certainty that God will grant us the victory. Being disciple of our Lord means remaining strong in our resolve both in times of victory and defeat. Not to give up spirit should be ours when criticisms rain down on us because of jealousy and evil intentions of others. The wicked world can be defeated only by the power of God and our passionate love towards our Lord. Letter to the Hebrews 5:7–9 speaks profoundly that Jesus too in his human life on earth went through tears and temptations, vulnerability and reliance on the Father, anguish and pain, struggles and fears. In fact, Jesus' humanity encourages us to approach Him with our own vulnerabilities, knowing He empathizes with our weaknesses.

3. A new covenant of God with a new heart and vision

We must look at the passage from Jeremiah 31:31–34 which is a biblical prophecy exposing God's redemptive plan and the nature of the covenant. Here we can see the kind of relationship God wants to build with His people of covenant. It is a covenant that is different and in fact, was made with Moses and based on Law. Unlike the Mosaic covenant, which was external and required adherence to a set of rules, the new covenant is characterized by its internal and personal nature. It signifies a radical change in how God relates to His people, moving from a relationship mediated by laws and rituals to one that is direct and heart-centered.

There are a lot of laws and regulations, but only when we integrate them, they become real and build a lasting relationship of peace and harmony. God's law looks for a profound change in human nature, enabling a more natural and spontaneous adherence to God's will. It signifies a personal and intimate knowledge of God, where obedience springs from love and inner conviction rather than fear of punishment. God's new covenant speaks to the inclusivity and universality of the new covenant. It envisions a community where knowledge of God is not restricted to a privileged few but is accessible to everyone, regardless of social or economic status. In other words, God becomes accessible to everyone and we can build a personal and mature relationship with God. So that it can foster a sense of equality and shared dignity among God's people here on earth. May this vision of God be ours today!

Questions for self-reflection

  1. How does the concept of dying to oneself to produce much fruit resonate with my current life circumstances? In what areas am I called to let go or sacrifice for the greater good?
  2. Reflect on the times I've sought glory and validation. How can I shift my focus towards seeking the glory that comes from God alone?
  3. Reflect on Jesus' obedience through suffering. How does this model of obedience challenge or inspire my own relationship with God, especially during difficult times?

Prayer based on Psalm 51

Gracious and Merciful God,

In the quiet of this moment, I come before You, acknowledging my transgressions and my sin that is ever before me. Against You, You only, have I sinned and done what is evil in Your sight. My heart aches with the weight of my choices, and I lay them down at Your feet, seeking Your forgiveness and mercy.

Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. Do not cast me away from Your presence or take Your Holy Spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of Your salvation and uphold me with a willing spirit, that I may teach transgressors Your ways and sinners may return to You.  Lord, open my lips, and my mouth will declare Your praise.  In Your abundant grace, hear my prayer in the name of Jesus our Lord, Amen.

- Olvin Veigas, SJ

March 15, 2024

Friday, March 8, 2024

Cross of Christ: A Way to Salvation

04th Sunday of Lent: March 10, 2024

Readings: 2 Chronicles 36:14–1619–23Psalms 137:1–6Ephesians 2:4–10John 3:14–21

When there is so much good in the world often people seem to be choosing not-so-good things. Darkness seems to be more desired than light. You want to choose good but land up taking up things that are unholy and bad. Everyone knows peace, harmony and reconciliation give life and prosperity but often people and nations choose the path of anger and jealousy and end up fighting and waging wars leading to only destruction and death. Even though human history and experience tell us that certain moral and ethical paradigms have been set up for a better and happier life, yet when circumstances arise people forget such things and end up in destructive things. The liturgical readings for this Sunday invite us to choose the right path in place of destruction and death. Moreover, they tell us to learn from history and lead a life that is pleasing to God.

1. Long, loving look at Christ on the Cross

The passage from John 3:14–21 contains some of the most profound teachings of the Christian faith, highlighting themes of salvation, judgment, and the nature of belief. Jesus speaks about how salvation is brought to the humanity. "Just as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, so must the Son of Man be lifted up." A reference to the Old Testament story (Numbers 21:4–9) where Israelites looked upon the bronze serpent to be healed. Similary, Christians too must look to Christ on the cross for their salvation. The long and loving look at Christ on the Cross in fact his sacrifice will lead for the forgiveness of sins and the restoration of our relationship with God.

Friday, March 1, 2024

Following the Lord and His Mission!

03rd Sunday of Lent: March 03, 2024

Readings: Exodus 20:1–17Psalm 19:8–111 Corinthians 1:22–25John 2:13–25

Howard Thuman famously said, "Don’t ask what the world needs. Ask what makes you come alive, and go do it. Because what the world needs is people who have come alive.” Living in a digital world surrounded by the euphoria of AI, ChatGpt, and Machine Learning (ML), we are in the midst of a transition. The change has been very quick and fast evolving. Those who embrace the race will not be the losers. However, we are invited to be part of it because it is our invention. It depends on us whether we would like to control technology or allow technology to control us. Unless we come alive, the world will be dormant, marginalized, and impoverished. The people of Jesus' time never realized the Messiah amidst them instead they saw in him a disturbance, a threat to their corrupt practices. On this Third Sunday of Lent, the liturgical readings invite us to accept the precepts of God wholeheartedly so that we come alive fully to carry on in this world. 

1. Necessity of Blessed Rage for the House of God

The passage from John 2:13–25 recounts the incident where Jesus cleanses the Temple in Jerusalem, an event that is significant both to Messianic work as well as the Jewish community as a whole. Jesus' actions in the Temple demonstrate his deep passion and reverence for the house of God. His zeal is not merely for the physical structure but for what it represents: a place of worship, prayer, and connection with the Divine. Therefore, our faith must move beyond witnessing miracles or signs but more of a personal relationship with God that is rooted in trust, love and commitment. 

Friday, February 23, 2024

If God is for us, who can be against us?

 2nd Sunday of Lent: February 25, 2024

Readings: Genesis 22:1–29–1315–18Psalm 116:1015–19Romans 8:31–34Mark 9:2–10

The sacrifice of Issac

 To listen to my audio-video reflections via YouTube, please click here: https://youtu.be/XyfBnIQDVnM 

The absence of imagination in the world of intelligence then knowledge is poor. Both imagination and intelligence must go hand in hand. When intelligence stops, imagination must take its course. The world that we live in lacks both. We know the tree by its fruits. The results the world provides to us are not so optimistic and hopeful. There is so much violence and wickedness because humanity is taking the world as it is. The lack of futuristic thinking is affecting us. The life of tomorrow can be guaranteed by wise decisions and actions of today. The mistakes or blunders of today can cost us tomorrow dearly. The small and bigger wars are going on inside the country and between the countries. The dominance of right-wing politics without a philosophy of a better future, harmony, and consensus is causing more harm than good. In this context, we must read the liturgical readings of the Second Sunday of Lent. The imagination of Abraham, Jesus and Paul are uncontainable in fulfilling the will of God. They are models for our earthly life.

1. Transfigured nature of Jesus - Human to divine

The passage of Mark 9:2–10 describes the Transfiguration of Jesus, an event where Jesus reveals His divine glory before three of His disciples, Peter, James, and John, on a high mountain. The Transfiguration reveals Jesus in His divine glory, affirming His identity as the Son of God. This event not only confirms the divinity of Christ to His disciples but also to us as readers, inviting us to recognize and honor Jesus as both fully God and fully man. It challenges us to deepen our understanding of who Jesus is and to appreciate the mystery of the Incarnation. During the Transfiguration, a voice from heaven says, "This is my beloved Son. Listen to him." It underscores that listening to Jesus must be a paramount urge within us.  For a Christian, true wisdom and direction come from Christ, and we are called to listen, discern, and follow His words in our daily lives.

Friday, February 16, 2024

Never Abandoned and Eternal Promises of God

First Sunday of Lent: February 18, 2024

Readings: Genesis 9:8–15Psalm 25:4–91 Peter 3:18–22Mark 1:12–15

We are, already, in the Season of Lent. Every liturgical season like Advent, Christmas, Ordinary Time, Lent, and Easter brings something unique to us so that we can delve deeper into the mystery of Christian life. This enables us to meditate, contemplate, and rethink about ourselves and the significance of the person of Jesus Christ to each one of us. Every spiritual aspect that we delve into has a significant meaning to our faith life. It might give us some insight into where we are and where we are going. It might also help us to choose the path that we want to take. As we delve deeper into the mystery of Christ's suffering, death, and resurrection, during this season of Lent, perhaps we can make a commitment that enables us to be a better human person. Thus the humanity within us really opens itself for the good of all. Let us see now how the liturgical readings for this Sunday open to us. 

1. Ultimate promise of God and our stewardship
Genesis 9:8–15 recounts the covenant that God established with Noah and all living creatures after the flood. The covenant in this passage underscores God's unwavering faithfulness to His creation. Despite the chaos and destruction of the flood, God remains committed to His people and the entire Earth. This serves as a powerful reminder that even in the midst of life's storms, God's faithfulness endures. It prompts us to reflect on the constancy of God's love and promises in our own lives, instilling a sense of trust and reliance on the Divine.

Friday, February 9, 2024

No Offence: We Need Healing

 06th Sunday of Ordinary Time: February 11, 2024

Readings: Leviticus 13:1–2, 44–46Psalm 32:1–2, 5, 111 Corinthians 10:31–11:1Mark 1:40–45

Healing is a process. Healing needs a good environment. If the world outside of the person is corrupt, unclean, and unhygienic, instead of healing deterioration takes place. Very often, we sing that beautiful hymn, "The world stands in need of liberation." When there is no true freedom both inside and outside, healing delays or illness deteriorates. Only when there is fulfilling and gratifying environment, the healing takes place. The liturgical readings on this sixth Sunday in Ordinary time speak about leprosy and healing. If Moses appears to be anti-leper, on the other hand Jesus is a friend and healer of lepers. Perhaps it is opportune for us to know who exactly we are. Are we the healers or victimize those who are still suffering? What you have, many can have but what you are, no one can be.

1. Illness needs acceptance and humility

Mark 1:40–45 recounts the healing of a man with leprosy by Jesus, offering profound insights into compassion, faith, and the transformative power of divine intervention. The narrative begins with a leper approaching Jesus, kneeling and imploring him to heal his condition. This act of humility and desperation reveals the social and physical isolation lepers faced during those times of Jesus. The leper's plea reflects a deep yearning for both physical healing and societal reintegration. In the healing of the leper, the power of inclusion and acceptance is celebrated. In the context of social justice, we are challenged to actively work towards creating a more inclusive and equitable society.

Saturday, February 3, 2024

Beyond Borders - Sharing the Gospel through Duty, Sacrifice, and Adaptation

05th Sunday in Ordinary Time: February 04, 2024

Readings:  Job 7:1–46–7Psalm 147:1–61 Corinthians 9:16–1922–23Mark 1:29–39

"I have no time" is the phrase often we hear. We are restless. Silence, solitude, and solicitude are missing from our busy lives. Something or the other distracts us continuously. There is no rest for our mobiles or for our eyes. Emptiness surrounds us. We look for fullness and abundance in life. Overwhelming activities and other issues fill our lives. Either we live as if we do not exist or believe that only we exist in this world. In such a busy schedule finding God is necessary. Despite keeping ourselves occupied, if we could spare some time for good things and those things which give glory to God then all our efforts are worthwhile. God sees us not from men's lenses. The liturgical readings of today are challenging. If Prophet Job is restless and sees no meaning in his life, St Paul finds completeness in Jesus Christ alone. And Jesus with his busy schedule finds time for everyone and brings all of them to a world of healing, liberation and peace.

1. The Healing Touch and the Call to Mission

The Gospel of Mark should be called the gospel of urgency. When we look at the passage Mark 1:29–39, we find Jesus everywhere. We witness here a powerful sequence of events that reveal the compassion and purpose of Jesus Christ. This passage takes us to the town of Capernaum, where Jesus engages in acts of healing, prayer, and mission. The scene begins with Jesus entering the house of Simon and Andrew, and immediately we see the compassionate nature of our Savior. Simon's mother-in-law is sick with a fever, and Jesus responds not with indifference but with a healing touch. In this simple yet profound gesture, we witness the depth of Christ's love and his desire to bring wholeness to those in need.

Thursday, January 25, 2024

Listening to Divine Intervention: Navigating the Path of Self-Discovery and Growth

04th Sunday in Ordinary Time: January 28, 2024

Readings: Deuteronomy 18:15–20Psalm 95:1–26–91 Corinthians 7:32–35Mark 1:21–28

We are almost at the end of January. The days are passing by quite quickly.  The new year that we began just a few weeks ago has already set us in a fast motion. An old adage says  “Time flies when you’re having fun.” Mahatma Gandhi once said, “There is more to life than simply increasing its speed.”  The readings on this fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time have to do with time. Time is in your basket. Whether it is Jesus speeding up his ministry in Capernaum even on a Holy Sabbath, the Saturday and healing a man with a demonic spirit or Moses conversing with God to get future prophets for his community, or Apostle Paul himself advising how best to serve the Lord either as single person or married man or woman. They are all saying that the future begins now. Therefore we must be ever ready to embrace. 

1. Recognizing who and what through the Power of Christ's Presence

The Gospel writer Mark 1:21–28 recounts an incident where Jesus teaches in the synagogue in Capernaum and encounters a man possessed by an unclean spirit. People are amazed at Jesus's teaching authority, and capacity to give spiritual guidance from authoritative sources. The fascinating thing in Jesus' ministry is that the unclean spirit recognizes the God-man in Jesus. There is deep within us both Godliness and ungodliness. We too can perceive what is right and holy. More often we might not make the right and Godly choices, yet we can recognize what is best for us. The capacity to discern and see negative influences both external and internal are indeed the gifts of the Holy Spirit.