Advent - God's Action in Human History

02nd Sunday of Advent: December 08, 2024

Readings: Baruch 5:1–9; Psalm 126:1–6; Philippians 1:4–6, 8–11; Luke 3:1–6

To listen to the audio-video reflections via YouTube, please click here: https://youtu.be/Rz1D-EoMgpQ

The liturgical readings for the Second Sunday of Advent invite us to contemplate the historical and salvific reality of the Incarnation, as God enters human history in the person of Jesus Christ. It is a profound reality of God's intervention in human history. Hence we must understand the mystery of salvation from the historical context. By doing so, we might be able to deepen our relationship with God thus we celebrate Christmas in a meaningful way. Advent is a season of waiting, but it is also a season of remembering: the God who once entered history as the Word made flesh continues to shape our lives today.

1. Salvation Rooted in History

Luke’s Gospel situates John the Baptist’s ministry within a detailed historical framework: the reign of Tiberius Caesar, the governance of Pontius Pilate, and the high priesthood of Annas and Caiaphas. These specifics emphasize that the story of salvation is not an abstract idea but a real event within human history. This historical grounding is crucial because it reminds us that God's salvation is tangible and accessible. John’s call to “prepare the way of the Lord” resonates today, inviting us to recognize how Christ continues to meet us in the reality of our own lives and circumstances.

This detailed historical backdrop underscores that the Incarnation is not a myth or fable but a real event within the flow of human history.  The temporal reality is also important in our journey towards eternity. The Gospel writer St Luke reminds us that God chose to enter the complexity of human history, with its rulers, cultures, and conflicts, pain and suffering, victories and defeates to redeem the world. The preparation of the way for Christ by John the Baptist calls us to recognize God’s ongoing presence in our own historical and personal circumstances.

2. God's ongoing work in us

Writing to the Philippian community, St Paul expresses confidence in God’s faithfulness, proclaiming that the good work begun in us will be brought to completion in Christ. This assurance is not theoretical but transformative within our life span; it is based on the reality of the Incarnation—God’s entry into history to transform humanity. Paul reminds us that Christ’s coming is both an event in history and a reality unfolding in our lives. 

As we prepare for the celebration of Christ’s birth, we are also called to grow in love, knowledge, and discernment, as pathways to holiness becoming living witnesses to His work. The Incarnation is the ultimate moment of God’s restorative work, bringing eternal joy through Jesus Christ. It's a call to embrace this Jesus of history and Jesus of salvation once and for all. In other words, embrace the historical reality of the Incarnation as a sign of God’s closeness. 

3. History and Holiness

The Incarnation reveals that history is sacred. God does not work apart from time but enters into it, transforming it from within. Advent invites us to recognize how God’s actions in history—including the birth of Christ—shape the present and guide us toward eternity. We are part of history and part of God's story. God is present in history and God is present in our lives too. The Incarnation is the ultimate affirmation that God works within history. He entered a specific time and place, fully embracing the human experience to redeem it. Advent invites us to reflect on how God’s actions in the past continue to resonate in our present.

God's promises are not abstract but are rooted in a specific historical context. God’s action in history assures us that He is not distant but actively intervenes to save His people. The Incarnation fulfills this prophecy: Christ enters history to lead His people on a journey from exile (sin) to restoration (grace). As we await Christ's coming, let us reflect on how God has worked in our personal histories to bring about restoration. Trust in His ongoing work in your life. It's a time to turn sorrow into joy. Let this Advent season be a time to discover His active presence in your daily life and to grow closer to Him through prayer, repentance, and acts of love.

Questions for self-reflection

1. Take time this Advent to recognize how God is shaping your life. How is the love of Christ deepening within you, preparing you for the fullness of His presence?
2. How has God worked through them to draw you closer to Him?
3. This Advent, how can you prepare the way for Christ in your heart and in the lives of others?
4. During Advent, ask yourself: how is God continuing to work in my life today? 

Prayer

Lord, as I reflect on the story of Your coming, help me to see how You are present in my own story. May I prepare my heart to welcome You more deeply, trusting that You are always at work in my life and in the world around me. I make this prayer in Jesus' Holy Name, Amen.

- Olvin Veigas, SJ

06 December 2024

Advent: A Journey from Restlessness to Peace

01st Sunday of Advent: December 01, 2024

Readings: Jeremiah 33:14-16; Psalm 25:4-5,8-10,14; 1 Thessalonians 3:12-4:2; Luke 21:25-28, 34-36

To listen to the audio-video reflections via YouTube, please click here: https://youtu.be/Ny7Y232Zx64?si=2tA7CjkIsELPY2md

The First Sunday of Advent marks the beginning of a sacred journey—a time of anticipation and hope. This season invites us to reflect on our longing for God amidst the complexities and struggles of life. Our restless hearts yearn for meaning, connection, and peace, echoing the psalmist's cry: “As the deer longs for streams of water, so my soul longs for you, O God” (Psalm 42:1). Rather than allowing fear and confusion to paralyse us as we see the many problems in our world, we look up. We eagerly await and work for the coming of God's reign in our midst. In the midst of chaos and distress, fear and anxiety, while very powers of heaven are shaken, we are called to stand tall, and strong with heads lifted up. This is Christian courage!

1. A world in need of hope

In today’s world, humanity seems to wrestle with both ancient and modern challenges. Wars, climate crises, economic disparity, and the isolation brought about by technological over-dependence have left many feeling overwhelmed and distant from hope. Yet, these struggles unveil a deeper truth: our longing for God is not a sign of weakness but a testament to the divine imprint within us. The emptiness we feel is not something to fear; it is the space God seeks to fill with His love.

Christ the Servant King: A Call to Authentic Discipleship and Hope

The Solemnity of Christ the King: November 24, 2024

Readings: Daniel 7:13-14; Psalm 93:1-2,5; Revelation 1:5-8; John 18:33-37

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

This Sunday, we celebrate the Solemnity of Christ the King, a feast that calls us to recognize and honour Jesus as the King of the Universe. It also marks the end of the liturgical year, inviting us to reflect on the journey of faith we have traversed and prepare for the Advent season—a time of waiting and hope. At Baptism, when we are anointed with Chrism, the words used are: "As Christ was anointed Priest, Prophet and King, so may you live always as a member of his body." These powerful words are a true reminder that we too take part in Christ's kingly functions.

1. Christ the Servant King

Unlike earthly kings, Jesus’ kingship is rooted in humility and service. He reigns not with power and might but through love, mercy, and sacrifice. His throne is the cross, and His crown is made of thorns. This image of Jesus challenges us to embrace servant leadership in our lives. A good number of us may not even like the word "King." Having lived in democratic countries, and a constitution, we love everyone to be treated equally. However, we must learn from Christ not as a King who runs the affairs of the world just like secular rulers but as a King who serves and becomes a model for us.

At the Service of the "Absolute" - The Legacy of Fr Devadatta Kamath, SJ (1934-2024)

Fr Devadatta Kamath, SJ (1934-2024)

Poet, priest, composer, writer, philosopher, scholar, teacher, professor, grammarian, translator, historian and Jesuit, Fr Devadatta Kamath, fondly known "Fr Deva" is indeed a multi-faceted personality. He was a man ready to embark on any work the Society entrusted to him either, it is the professor of Indian philosophy at St Joseph's Seminary in Mangalore or teacher and dean at the Juniorate in Trevendrum, Mundgod and Bangalore, or chaplain at Stanislaus Convent at St Philomena's Hospital, Bangalore or Lourdes Hospital in Dharwad, Fr Devadatta was ever ready for any work.

Becoming Signs of Hope and Contradiction - A Call to Holy Disruption

33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time: November 17, 2024

Readings: Daniel 12:1-3; Psalm 16:5,8-11; Hebrews 10:11-14,18; Mark 13:24-32

To listen to the audio-video reflections via YouTube, please click here: https://youtu.be/w9GATiX7U4c

As we draw near to the end of the liturgical year, the liturgical readings on the 33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time encourage us to live with vigilance and hope, grounded in faith. In a world marked by challenges—conflict, social injustice, and environmental crises—our call as Christians feels ever more urgent. We are reminded that to be a follower of Christ in today's world means to be a bearer of light, compassion, and courage. Amid the uncertainty, we are called to be steady and resilient, living out our faith not in fear but in trust, not in isolation but in community. Jesus invites us to be people, who build bridges, seek peace, and respond with compassion to the cries of those around us.

1. A Call to Holy Disruption

In Mark 13:24-32, Jesus presents an apocalyptic vision of the end times—a world plunged into darkness, cosmic forces in upheaval, and the heavens themselves shaken. It is a powerful and unsettling image, and it is meant to unsettle us. Yet, we find within this disruption a promise of redemption: the coming of the Son of Man in "great power and glory," gathering all people to Himself. Jesus’ words challenge us to look beyond the surface, to see that God's kingdom is not just a place or a future event but an active reality that breaks into our lives even now.

God’s Economy - A Management of Giving Entirely

32nd Sunday in Ordinary Time: November 10, 2024

Readings: 1 Kings 17:10–16; Psalm 146:7–10; Hebrews 9:24–28; Mark 12:41–44

To listen to the audio-video reflections via YouTube, please click here: https://youtu.be/7fRyN3enFJE

The world that we live in today is not so kind and authentic. In today’s world, we often witness a contrast between appearances and authenticity, between acts of charity performed for recognition and those born from genuine self-sacrifice. In 1 Kings 17:10–16, we see a humble widow who, despite her own need, offers her last bit of food to the prophet Elijah. Her quiet trust and willingness to give from her scarcity highlight a faith rooted in dependence on God’s provision. In Mark 12:41–44, Jesus contrasts the wealthy scribes, who give out of their abundance, with a poor widow who offers two small coins—her entire livelihood.

1. A radical trust in God displaces superficiality

The stories of the two widows in 1 Kings 17:10–16 and Mark 12:41–44 reflect two ways of giving: one that comes from a place of selfless trust and one that, though outwardly generous, may lack depth. In a society that often values image over substance, these passages invite us to reflect on our own motivations and the authenticity of our giving. Are we like the scribes, seeking to impress, or like the widows, offering all we have in quiet faith? In most cultures, widows are not treated well. Often they become outcasts and neglected lot. But God is gracious and generous towards them. They may not have a lot of wealth but they have a great, loving and generous heart. That is their solace and the source of their strength.

Called to Radical Love: Drawing Closer to God and Neighbour

31st Sunday in Ordinary Time: November 03, 2024

Readings: Deuteronomy 6:2–6; Psalm 18:2–4, 47, 51; Hebrews 7:23–28; Mark 12:28–34

To listen to the audio-video reflections via YouTube, please click here: https://youtu.be/mpAsRHy6XSw

As we gather on this 31st Sunday in Ordinary Time, we are mindful that November holds a special place in our Catholic tradition—a time dedicated to remembering and praying for our beloved departed. The Church invites us to renew our trust in God’s promise of eternal life while reflecting on our own journey towards holiness. In today's readings, we are reminded of God’s unwavering love and mercy, even amidst our human frailties. May this reflection help us seek God more earnestly and extend our prayers for those who have gone before us, so that they may rest in His eternal peace.

1. God's presence through the act of love

In Mark 12:28–34, Jesus is asked about the greatest commandment, and He responds with a profound yet simple truth: to love God with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength, and to love our neighbour as ourselves. It is nothing but a total, undivided love for God. This isn’t merely a feeling or a duty; it’s a wholehearted devotion that touches every part of who we are—our thoughts, desires, actions, and intentions. It is a continual choosing of God above all else. God's presence must permeate not only our prayers but our relationships, our work, our decisions, and the way we spend our time. 

When God Stops for Us: Embracing Christ’s Light in a Chaotic World

30th Sunday in Ordinary Time: October 27, 2024

Readings: Jeremiah 31:7–9; Psalm 126:1–6; Hebrews 5:1–6; Mark 10:46–52

To listen to the audio-video reflections via YouTube, please click here: https://youtu.be/ki76QxAUmOg?si=Xd53OjjKkLA37cjT

In today’s world, marked by uncertainty, suffering, and a deep sense of disconnection, the human heart longs for healing, meaning, and an intimate connection with God. Amid existential challenges—personal struggles, societal pressures, and global crises—there is a growing awareness of our need for something beyond the material, a transcendent hope. The stories and teachings found in Scripture, particularly in the accounts of Bartimaeus in Mark 10:46–52 and the role of Christ as High Priest in Hebrews 5:1–6, speak directly to this longing.

1. The Cry of the Heart

In Mark 10:46–52, we encounter the powerful story of Bartimaeus, a blind beggar sitting on the roadside, who calls out to Jesus, "Son of David, have mercy on me!" Despite the crowd's attempt to silence him, Bartimaeus persists until Jesus hears him and invites him to come forward. When asked what he desires, Bartimaeus responds simply, "Rabbi, I want to see." Moved by his faith, Jesus heals him, and Bartimaeus follows Jesus on the road.

Servant Leadership: Reimagining Success Through the Eyes of Christ

29th Sunday in Ordinary Time: October 20, 2024

Readings: Isaiah 53:10-11; Psalm 33:4-5,18-20,22; Hebrews 4:14-16; Mark 10:35-45

To listen to the audio-video reflections via YouTube, please click here: https://youtu.be/R635JHHNh9w

In today’s fast-paced and often challenging world, we are constantly confronted with the pressures of success, recognition, and the desire for control. Many of us struggle with feelings of inadequacy, temptation, and the burden of our weaknesses. In this context, the Scriptures offer a timeless message of hope and transformation. Through the lessons in Mark 10:35-45 and Hebrews 4:14-16, we are invited to reimagine greatness not as power or status, but as service and humility. Moreover, we are reminded that in our frailty, we are not alone — Christ, our compassionate High Priest, understands our struggles and offers us the grace and strength we need to endure. These reflections speak directly to our contemporary experience, urging us to embrace a life of humble service and to approach God with confidence, trusting in His ever-present mercy and grace.

1. The Desire for Greatness vs Service of God

In the Gospel of Mark 10:35-45, we witness a profound lesson about the nature of discipleship and the heart of Christian service. James and John, two of Jesus’ closest disciples, approach Him with a bold request: they want to sit at His right and left in His glory. This request reveals a common human tendency — the desire for power, recognition, and status. But Jesus gently redirects their ambitions toward a higher calling, one that challenges worldly notions of greatness.

Letting Go to Follow - From Possessions to Purpose

28th Sunday in Ordinary Time: October 13, 2024

Readings: Wisdom 7:7–11; Psalm 90:12–17; Hebrews 4:12–13; Mark 10:17–30

1. The Call to Let Go

In Mark 10:17–30, we find the story of the rich young man who seeks eternal life but is challenged by Jesus to sell his possessions, give to the poor, and follow Him. The young man in the story sincerely desires eternal life and approaches Jesus with respect and eagerness. However, when asked to sell his possessions and give to the poor, he walks away saddened. Following Jesus requires a willingness to let go of earthly or worldly attachments.  Only when you detach from the things here, one will be attached to the above. Jesus does not condemn wealth but rather points out that unreadiness to let go of things is not the true sign of authentic discipleship. What are the things in our lives—possessions, ambitions, habits—that we find difficult to release? Are we willing to put them aside to follow Christ more closely?

Redefining Greatness: Embracing Humility in a World of Competition

25th Sunday in Ordinary Time: September 22, 2024

Readings: Wisdom 2:12,17-20; Psalm 54:3-8 James 3:16-4:3; Mark 9:30-37 

To listen to my Audio Reflections please click here

In the secular world, greatness is often defined by status, power, wealth, and influence. People strive to be recognized, admired, and celebrated for their achievements, positioning themselves above others through success, authority, or material gain. The pursuit of greatness in this sense often fosters competition, pride, and a focus on personal ambition. In contrast, Jesus redefines greatness entirely. He teaches that true greatness lies in humility, service, and selflessness. In the Reign of God, those who serve others, especially the least and the marginalized, are considered the greatest. Jesus calls His followers to embrace a childlike humility, seeking not worldly recognition but a life dedicated to loving and serving others. This radical understanding of greatness challenges us to shift our focus from self-promotion to self-giving.

1. The call to humility and being open to God

In this passage Mark 9:30-37, Jesus speaks of His impending suffering and death, yet the disciples, preoccupied with their own concerns, fail to grasp His message. Jesus predicts His betrayal and crucifixion, but the disciples argue among themselves about who is the greatest.  Jesus uses this moment to teach a profound lesson in humility. Jesus brings a child into their midst and says, “Whoever wants to be first must be last of all and servant of all” (Mark 9:35). This statement turns the world’s concept of greatness upside down. Jesus does not dismiss the desire to be great; rather, He redefines what true greatness is — found not in power or status but in service and humility.

Embracing Christ’s Identity: A Call to Faith, Service and Purpose

24th Sunday in Ordinary Time: September 15, 2024

Readings: Isaiah 50:4-9; Psalm 116:1-6, 8-9; James 2:14-18; Mark 8:27-35

To listen to the audio-video reflections via YouTube, please click here: https://youtu.be/RdxhYMlTm9c

The sense of identity is a foundational aspect of human existence, shaping how we understand ourselves, our purpose, and our place in the world. In the context of Jesus, identity is deeply intertwined with spiritual calling and divine relationship. Jesus' sense of identity was rooted in His relationship with God the Father, His mission to bring salvation, and His embodiment of divine love and truth. This strong sense of identity empowered Him to remain steadfast in His purpose, even in the face of suffering and rejection. As a believer understanding our identity in Christ invites us to live in alignment with God's will, finding true purpose and meaning through our connection to Him.

1. Authenticity and Identity of Christ as Real

Mark 8:27-35 is a profound passage where Jesus asks His disciples, “Who do you say that I am?” This question is central to the identity of Jesus and the nature of discipleship. For this St Peter responds, “You are the Messiah,” a truth that sets the foundation for Christian faith. However, Jesus quickly reminds the disciples that understanding Him as the Messiah isn't about power or earthly glory, but suffering, sacrifice, and humility. Jesus’ identity as the suffering servant calls us to rethink the nature of power in our lives. Discipleship is about following Christ in humility, recognizing that the path to life goes through self-giving love, not personal gain.

The Feast of the Nativity of Our Lady: A Celebration of Faith, Family, and Harvest

23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time: September 08, 2024

Readings: Isaiah 35:4–7; Psalm 146:7–10; James 2:1–5; Mark 7:31–37

To listen to the audio-video reflections via YouTube, please click here: https://youtu.be/dqlEIZ5goso

On September 8th each year, the Church celebrates a feast that holds deep significance for Catholics worldwide—the Nativity of Our Lady, the birth of the Blessed Virgin Mary. This joyous occasion marks the beginning of Mary’s earthly life, a life that would pave the way for the Incarnation of Christ. As the Mother of God, Mary’s birth is seen as a prelude to the salvation story, making this feast an essential part of the liturgical calendar.

For many Catholic communities, the Nativity of Our Lady is not only a day of spiritual reflection but also one filled with rich cultural and familial traditions. Among these communities are the Mangalore Konkani Christians of India, who celebrate this feast in a unique and heartfelt manner, blending their deep-rooted Catholic faith with local customs. Known as "Monti Fest," this celebration brings together the dual significance of Mary’s birth and the harvest season.

1. A Feast of the Family and Harvest

The Mangalore Konkani Christians celebrate the Feast of the Nativity of Mary as a time to give thanks for the harvest. As a farming community for centuries, the harvest represented God’s abundant blessings, a sign of His providence and care. By associating the harvest with Mary’s nativity, the community expresses gratitude not only for the crops that sustain their bodies but also for Mary, who nourishes their souls by leading them to Christ.

From Ritual to Reality: Cultivating Inner Holiness

 22nd Sunday in Ordinary Time: September 01, 2024

Readings: Deuteronomy 4:1–2,6–8; Psalm 15:2–5; James 1:17–18, 21–22, 27; Mark 7:1–8, 14–15, 21–23

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

Often we are lost in external things, which might not be necessary at all to reach God. In glorifying external things, we might lose what is necessary, essential and salvific. As scripture rightly puts it, God sees the heart of man and woman. Internal aspects are very essential that might bring us closer to God. Psalms always ask for grace, “Create in me a clean heart, O Lord” (Psalm 51:10-19). That should be our prayer every day of our lives. The liturgical readings of this 22nd Sunday in ordinary time of the year, invite us to get into the innermost of our being and see what pleases God and not what pleases men and women of today. True holiness comes from within, and it is only through God's grace that we can be cleansed and made new.

1. Look at the interiority rather than the exteriority

In Mark 7:1–8, 14–15, 21–23, Jesus confronts the Pharisees and scribes who criticize His disciples for eating with unwashed hands, which they see as a breach of tradition. Jesus responds by challenging their focus on external rituals over the inner condition of the heart. He emphasizes that it is not what enters a person from the outside that defiles them, but what comes from within. Jesus invites us to consider how we can cultivate a purity that goes beyond external rituals. Are we allowing God to shape our inner life? Are we more concerned with how we appear to others than with the state of our hearts? 

Challenged by Faith: Choosing Christ Amid Life’s Difficulties

21st Sunday in Ordinary Time: August 25, 2024

Readings: Joshua 24:1-2, 15-18; Psalm 34:2-3, 16-23; Ephesians 5:21-32; John 6:60-69

To listen to the audio-video reflections via YouTube, please click here: https://youtu.be/6-IaXwlvw_Y

We live in a complex world. Often we get ourselves drowned in the complexities and demands of this world. As a result, we find ourselves confronted with challenges that test the depth of our faith. The teachings of Jesus are as radical and transformative now as they were over two thousand years ago, and sometimes, like the disciples we too struggle to fully grasp or accept them. In a world where doubt and confusion can easily take root, the liturgical readings of this Sunday speak directly to the heart of what it means to truly follow Christ—especially when His words are hard to understand or live out.

1. Temptations and the Challenge of Faith

In John 6:60-69, many of Jesus' disciples respond to His teachings by saying, "This is a hard teaching. Who can accept it?" Jesus had just revealed Himself as the Bread of Life, emphasizing that true life comes from partaking in His body and blood—a concept that was difficult for many to grasp. This challenged the very nature of faith. Faith often requires us to embrace what is beyond human understanding, trusting in God's wisdom even when His words seem difficult or counterintuitive. The journey of faith is not always about understanding everything, but about trusting in the One who calls us.

Sacrifice and Communion: The Journey to Eternal Life

20th Sunday in Ordinary Time: August 18, 2024

Readings: Proverbs 9:1–6; Psalm 34:2–3, 10–15; Ephesians 5:15–20; John 6:51–58

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

We are no longer in the post-modern world but in the post-truth world. People don't take you seriously even though you may be an authority over a particular subject. It's not about seeing is believing instead it's living without believing. As I write these reflections, I'm in XLRI Delhi campus for a workshop on "Artificial Intelligence for Excellence in Education." Until recently, we googled to get new information but today we give prompts to Open ChatGPT or Gemini to know more. However, in the midst of sudden and quick changes in the way we live, conceive and articulate things, still the eternal truths that are found in the Holy Scripture and spoken by our Lord Jesus are still relevant and actual today.

1. The Bread of Life – A Call to Deep Communion

John 6:51–58 is a profound passage where Jesus speaks about being the "living bread" that came down from heaven. He emphasizes that whoever eats this bread will live forever and that the bread he gives is his flesh, offered for the life of the world. The mystery of the Eucharist and the intimate relationship Christ offers to his followers is mindboggling.  This statement invites us to reflect on the intimate and life-giving relationship that Christ offers.