Second Sunday in Ordinary Time: January 14, 2024
Readings: 1 Samuel 3:3–10, 19; Psalm 40:2, 4, 7–10; 1 Corinthians 6:13–15, 17–20; John 1:35–42
As we get into the rhythm of everyday activities and adventures, the past leaves behind us memories and experiences. What matters most in our lives is the present. St Augustine had difficulty in defining the essence of presence. He states in his book "Confessions" that by the moment I say what "present" is, the "present" is gone. The time is past moving and we are lost in the past. Even though, we care so much about the present yet living in the "now" is extremely difficult. Often we concentrate either on the past or in the future. The future is on the way. With our past experiences, we prepare for the future. Because the future is uncertain, vague and enigmatic. The liturgical readings for this Second Sunday of the month invite us to live in the present just as young Samuel was called or the first disciples of Jesus found Messiah. They found what they were looking for in the present.
1. Pursuing holiness in a world of worldly incentives
Let us start with the second reading from St Paul 1 Corinthians 6:13–15, 17–20. He deals very deeply into the profound mystery of the union between our bodies and the Spirit of God. Paul reminds us that our bodies are not meant for immorality but are intended to be instruments of righteousness, vessels through which the divine presence can manifest. In other words, in the physical and tangible body, God truly dwells. Therefore we must take care of our bodies. Paul's emphasis on this union urges us to seek spiritual alignment in every facet of our lives. We are reminded that our identity is not solely defined by societal standards or personal desires but is profoundly linked to our connection with the Spirit of God. Practicing self-discipline, pursuing holiness, and embracing a lifestyle that glorifies God are all integral components of acknowledging the divine residence within us.
As we navigate the complexities of our human existence, it is crucial to recognize the sanctity inherent in our physical form. We are not merely flesh or blood and bone but dwelling places of the Holy Spirit. The verse prompts us to ponder the gravity of this truth — our bodies are temples of the living God. In a world that often emphasizes external appearances and fleeting pleasures, this biblical passage challenges us to view our bodies with a sacred lens. Our actions, choices, and even the way we care for our physical selves carry spiritual implications. The call is to honor God with our bodies, acknowledging that every aspect of our being is intricately connected to the divine purpose.
2. Recognizing the good news of the Messiah
As we look at the Gospel of John 1:35–42 it unfolds a poignant scene where two disciples of John the Baptist, Andrew and an unnamed companion, find themselves in the presence of Jesus. As Jesus walks by, John points to Him, saying, "Behold, the Lamb of God!" (John 1:36). This moment marks a profound transition as these disciples turn their attention from the preparatory ministry of John the Baptist to the Messiah himself. In this narrative, there is an echo of a universal call—an invitation extended not only to these disciples but to every seeker, every soul yearning for meaning and purpose. It prompts us to reflect on the moments in our lives when we, too, have encountered the Divine, perhaps indirectly through others, and felt that magnetic pull to explore the deeper dimensions of our existence.
Jesus asks "What are you seeking?" (John 1:38). What are we seeking in our lives, our relationships, our pursuits? This moment invites us to pause and consider our deepest longings, the desires that propel us forward in our spiritual journey. Just like the disciples who looked in Jesus where he dwells, so too often our pursuit of God is not about acquiring knowledge but about dwelling with the Divine, establishing a profound connection that transcends mere acquaintance. Just like Andrew, we too must share joyfully the discovery that we have made in our lives.
3. Ever whispering God in our lives
When we come to the Old Testament, the story of Samuel is really fascinating. He is the prophet who consecrates the first two kings: Saul and David. He was a man of discernment. He knew whom he should choose. He learnt from Prophet Eli to distinguish between good and bad, holy and evil. The passage from 1 Samuel 3:3b-10, 19 unveils a sacred moment in the life of the young prophet Samuel. As he lies down in the sanctuary of the Lord, a voice calls out to him. Not recognizing the voice as that of the Lord, Samuel responds in humility and openness, seeking guidance from Eli, the elderly priest.
This narrative invites us to contemplate our own spiritual receptivity. How often do we hear the whispers of the Divine in the midst of our daily lives, and do we have the discernment to recognize God's voice? Are we attuned to the voice of God, even in the midst of life's distractions and busyness? Can we, like Samuel, respond with humility and openness, allowing the divine presence to guide our paths? Samuel's journey begins with a willingness to listen, a posture of openness that allows him to receive divine messages. In our fast-paced and often noisy world, it becomes increasingly challenging to attune our hearts to the subtle nuances of God's communication. The story of Samuel reminds us of the importance of cultivating a quiet space within our souls, a sanctuary where the voice of God can be heard and embraced.
St Paul, Samuel and the disciples of Jesus encourage us to adopt a posture of humility and surrender, echoing Samuel's words, "Speak, Lord, for your servant is listening." It calls us to recognize the sacredness of our bodies, to honor the divine dwelling within us, and to live in a manner that reflects the profound union between our physical selves and the Holy Spirit. May this reflection inspire us to create sacred spaces within our souls where we can hear and respond to the gentle call to holiness's of our Creator.
Questions for self-reflection
- Am I creating intentional and quiet spaces in my life for spiritual reflection and listening to the voice of God, as Samuel did in the sanctuary?
- In the midst of life's noise and distractions, am I actively seeking the guidance of God, like going for spiritual direction, recognizing that sometimes we need the wisdom of others to discern the divine voice?
- What am I seeking in my life, relationships, and pursuits?
- How can I infuse selfless service into my daily activities, especially in my interactions with others?
Prayer based Psalm 40:
Heavenly Father,
I wait patiently for You, trusting that You will lift me from the depths and set my feet upon solid ground. Your faithfulness is my refuge and my hope. You have filled my heart with a new song, a melody of gratitude for Your wondrous deeds. Your love and mercy surround me, and I find joy in proclaiming Your righteousness to all who will listen.
Let Your Word be my guide, and may the desires of my heart align with Your perfect will. Help me to be a living testament to Your goodness and grace. May my life be an offering of praise, and let my actions speak of Your righteousness. Your unfailing love is my refuge, and I seek to dwell in the shelter of Your wings. In times of trouble, be my stronghold. Guide me on the path of righteousness, for Your name's sake.
In the name of Your Son, Jesus Christ, I pray. Amen.
- Olvin Veigas, SJ
January 12, 2024
4 comments:
Dear Fr. Olvin Veigas SJ,
Thank you very much for your insightful reflections. Upon receiving the notification, I promptly began listening to your reflections on the Word of God. I was deeply moved by a few sentences, which I'd like to highlight below.
1. "The present is God, but we are often lost in the past."
2. "Often, we concentrate either on the past or on the future."
3. "The future is uncertain, yet we are invited to live in the present."
4. "We are the dwelling place of the Holy Spirit."
5. "Our bodies are the temples of the living God."
6. "Recognizing the goodness of Messiah."
7. "Jesus asks us, 'What are you seeking in our lives?'"
8. "How often do we hear the whispers of the divine?"
Thank you, Father, and may God bless you abundantly with good health of mind and body to inspire millions of people all over the world. 👏🌹
I express my deepest gratitude to you for your commitment and dedication to present a beautiful insightful thoughts on the days readings to recharge, renew and reenergize our Spiritual growth for the weekend. My blessings and prayers are always there for you.
Thank you Fr for the reflections and meaningful prayer/ introspection you send every week without fail.
God bless and keep you in good health.
Thank you father for the inspiring reflection on the Sunday readings.
Post a Comment