Jesus, the Good Shepherd: Ever Guiding and Protecting

04th Sunday of Easter: April 21, 2024

Readings: Acts 4:8–12; Psalm 118:1, 8–9, 21–23, 26, 29; 1 John 3:1–2; John 10:11–18

In spite of the technology and development in science, human life is fragile and vulnerable. We need protection and look for safety when we travel in vehicles or while we walk on the roads. We, always, feel a need for something or someone that is beyond us, in fact, of our control to protect us and save us. We need something or someone to console us when we are sad, someone to be with us in times of crisis and suffering, someone to accompany us when we are lonely or feel threatened, someone to pat on our back with words of encouragement when the road ahead of us is tough and difficult, someone to fight with us when we are loosing, someone to comfort us when we are weeping, someone to strengthen us when we feel terribly weak and difficult to walk. The list goes on. On this 4th Sunday of Easter which is also known as Good Shepherd Sunday, we have in Jesus our good Shepherd. Because he is the way, truth and life. In him, we find everything for our life from safety to eternal glory.

1. Jesus: Ever caring and loving

In St John’s gospel (John 10:11–18) Jesus speaks at length the kind of Shepherd he is. The words are not only consoling but also encouraging to follow such a person called Jesus. Throughout his public ministry, Jesus was a good shepherd to those who came in contact with him, either to listen to his words of wisdom, get consoled, receive healing, feel his touch, hear words of encouragement and strength or be fed by good food. Jesus was always there with the people. He never left them even though they left him when Cross came on his way. Jesus met everyone with a loving embrace. Jesus kissed the kids and blessed them when his disciples tried to chase them away. When the prostitute was in front of Jesus to be prosecuted, he made the accusers understand how greatly sinful they were. Jesus was there at the tomb of Lazarus consoling Martha and Mary. He made the crippled walk, blind to see, stopped the bleeding, and chased away the Pharisees and scribes who were at him to find fault with him and his disciples. 

“The good shepherd is one who lays down his life for his sheep.” Jesus utters these words, which he fulfilled in his life. When, he was sentenced to the death of Cross, Jesus did not run away but was ready to embrace it so that his disciples could be spared. They found in him a real Messiah. Jesus knew his disciples, his people, his friends, his acquaintances. He cared for them and loved them. When his disciple Peter’s mother-in-law is sick, he goes straight to her home to heal her. When he hears Lazarus is dead, he goes to the home of Martha and Mary. Jesus knew whom he must care for, and who were his people. Ever ready, ever faithful shepherd.

2. Name of Jesus: Ever healing and rejuvenating 

Christian theology and spirituality mention the tremendous power of the name of Jesus. St Peter heals the crippled man at the entrance of the temple. He gives testimony that it is the name of Jesus that healed him. In the name of Jesus, our illnesses are healed, suffering is reduced, and sorrow is turned into joy. The power of the name of Jesus is tremendous. When you are terribly sick, just say, “Jesus, heal me.” When you go through excruciating pain in your stomach or in other parts of the body, just call on the name of Jesus, “Jesus heal me”, “Jesus touch, me.” Jesus will certainly be at your bedside consoling or giving his healing touch.

The testimonies of countless men and women of this world know the power of the name of Jesus. Jesus the second person of the Trinity, the God-man is always with us giving his healing power. If such power of Jesus is not present in the world, people would not have embraced Christ as their saviour and Lord. Embracing Jesus is not for the sake of identity or general well-being, instead, Jesus is the salvation. He is the way, the truth and life. Jesus as a good shepherd not only smashes away every fear and the den of the enemy but he rescues us from those robbers, wicked and evil forces. Where there is Jesus, there is definite defeat to the devil. The evil forces have no place in the company of Jesus. 

3. Power of Jesus - Empowered to be the Children of God

St John the beloved disciple of Jesus writes in his epistle (1 John 3:1–2) that because of Jesus God the Father has lavished on us by letting us be called God’s children. In the name of Jesus, we have become the children of God. It is a continuous process to grow and become mature children of God through Jesus Christ. Through him, we are graced and are continually blessed to walk in the footsteps of our Lord, Jesus Christ. Therefore, as we grow every day in our deep faith in Jesus Christ, we are nurtured and nourished by our Lord. The Eucharist, the word of God, prayer, works of charity and mercy all help us in our way of salvation. We are continually renewed in Christ Jesus when we commemorate his last supper when we eat his body and drink his blood in the form of bread and wine. Jesus is ever present and forever available to us. 

The power of Jesus continues to awaken the men and women of today. The first disciples were energized so much by his power, that they went around the world preaching and healing. The mission of our Lord continues today. Because he continues to shepherd us, even though we may not see him physically, yet we see him through our inner eyes, the eyes of faith, always caring and supporting us in our struggle for peace and justice, reconciliation and liberation. He is present when we work with migrants and refugees, abandoned and distressed. Jesus as shepherd continues to guide and protect us when we volunteer to do something great for our God, when we cross the narrow and infantile boundaries that we put ourselves to protect our position and earthly authority either in our religious life or in the world. Jesus breaks the pride and arrogance of every selfish, narcissistic and ego-centric person in the world. Jesus the good shepherd stands above in giving the right place, and the place that belongs to us and enough strength to carry out the mission that is entrusted to each one. May, we hang on to this Jesus the good shepherd, today and always.

Questions for self-reflection 

1. What is my experience of Jesus as a good shepherd?
2. Have I been able to share some of my experiences of Jesus with others?
3. How can I be a good shepherd to others, in my family or religious community surroundings, and any other places where I spend most of my time?

Prayer based on Psalm 118

Heavenly Father,

We come before you with hearts overflowing with gratitude, for you are good, and your steadfast love endures forever. In the midst of challenges and trials, we find refuge in your unwavering faithfulness. Though we may face adversity on every side, we trust in your strength, knowing that you are our helper. You are our refuge and our shield, sustaining us through every storm.

We rejoice and declare your mighty deeds, for you have answered our prayers and have become our salvation. The very cornerstone rejected by the builders has become the cornerstone of our lives. Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord. We lift our voices in praise, for you are our God, and we exalt you above all. To you, O Lord, be all glory and honour, now and forevermore. Amen.

- Olvin Veigas, SJ

18 April 2024

Recognizing God in our Midst in Times of Agony and Ecstasy

Third Sunday of Easter: April 14, 2024

Readings: Acts 3:13–15, 17–19; Psalm 4:2, 4, 7–9; 1 John 2:1–5; Luke 24:35–48

 To listen to my audio-video reflections via YouTube, please click here: https://youtu.be/LNgb9D64H-I

When things get blurred, we would like to clarify them.  However, when anxieties and expectations are on our way, we need someone to encourage and support us. If we do not find such people in our life journey, we might get into frustration, unhappiness or sorrow. The resurrection narratives bring both anxiety and expectation to the disciples of Jesus. They are all troubled by the outcome of Jesus' crucifixion and death. The disciples are uncertain about the resurrection of their master. They are greatly troubled. But Jesus' very presence amidst them not only gives them hope but also the courage to proclaim his resurrection even more boldly. The liturgical reading for this Third Sunday of Easter brings together a lot of hope and expectations at the new life of Jesus. Moreover, the disciples of our Lord are encouraged and energized beyond any measure to preach him to the ends of the earth. 

1. Resurrection: Divine Presence Amidst Doubt

Luke 24:35–48 recounts the moments after the resurrection of Jesus when he appears to his disciples, offering them his presence, comfort, assurance, and understanding. The resurrection of Jesus turned the life of the disciples upside down. They had never imagined that such a thing would happen even though, they had heard from Jesus about his passion and death. Now the resurrection of their Master is a reality. They are simply overwhelmed by this new way of being of their Lord. They see in him the divine presence amidst doubt. It's a lesson for us too that in our own moments of doubt and uncertainty, we can find solace in the presence of the divine, knowing that God is always with us, even when we struggle to perceive it.

Seeking and Finding the Risen Lord and being Visioned and Missioned

Second Sunday of Easter / Sunday of Divine Mercy: April 07, 2024

Readings: Acts 4:32–35; Psalms 118:2–4, 13–15, 22–24; 1 John 5:1–6; John 20:19–31

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

The steam of election heat is rising as the temperatures here in Karnataka. It is paradoxical to see that creativity and human ingenuity are always at the rescue when something old has to be said in a new form. When national elections become the main news in our country, each political party is trying its best to put forward the assurances and promises to the public. Unfortunately, none of us demand any kind of balance sheet or practicability of the election promises from these political parties including our institutions of education or service and even by those best brains of our country. In fact, even our Church leaders are sterile to the political process of our country. Hardly, do we see any collective efforts from our Christian community leaders to encourage our brothers and sisters to engage and participate in the electoral process of our country actively as we as minorities live in turbulent times. The Resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ created not only uproar in the religious life of Jews but also political turmoil in the entire Roman empire. And later, we see, in 312 AD, the entire Roman Empire accepted Christianity as the state religion. 

1. Resurrection narrative: Seeing is believing

The resurrection of Jesus stands as an extraordinary event in the annals of human history, reverberating like a thunderclap throughout the Judeo-Roman world of his time. In an era where religion and politics were deeply intertwined, Jesus, initially a religious reformer, found himself enmeshed in the turbulent currents of political intrigue, earning him the title of King. This confluence is evident in the visit of the magi at his birth, the heinous massacre of innocent children by King Herod, the interrogation of Jesus by Pilate, and the provocative inscription "Jesus, the King of Jews." These events cast a shadow of suspicion over Jesus, fueling fears of political ambition. Despite the undeniable political undercurrents, Jesus' core mission remained centered on ushering people towards a divine connection, echoing the prophetic words of Isaiah 61:1-2 (Luke 4:16-21). When confronted with questions about taxes, Jesus encapsulated his stance with the famous words, “Give back to Caesar what is Caesar’s and to God what is God’s” (Mark 12:27), emphasizing the dual responsibilities of earthly governance and spiritual allegiance.

Approaches to the Cross of Christ

Good Friday of the Lord's Passion: March 29, 2024

Readings: Isaiah 52:13-53:12; Psalms 31:2, 6, 12-13, 15-16, 17, 25; Hebrews 4:14-16, 5:7-9; John 18:1-19:42 

Please listen to the audio recording of the homily preached in a parish: https://youtu.be/DmcuUc09akg

"Behold the wood of the Cross, on which the Salvation of the World, come, let us adore." With these very emotional words, we venerate the Cross of our Lord today.  When we think about the Cross, very quickly to our imagination comes the Cross in our Church altars, homes and in our own threads that we wear around our necks. Jesus never looked for the Cross in his life, but it came on his way. Jesus never longed for Cross but it was imposed upon him by the secular rulers of this world. So why then the Cross of our Lord has become such an awe-inspiring, symbol of our salvation in Christian religion.

1. Early symbols of Christianity 

To get deeper into the meaning and significance of the Cross, we must turn the annals of the history of Christianity. Other than the robust understanding of the importance of the Cross of our Lord Jesus in the writings of St Paul, we do not find anything much in the early years of Christianity. The early Christians who lived in fear and trembling, persecution and death even that of the Cross under Roman rule, did not use the symbol of the Cross. The early Christians used the symbol of fish or lamb as some sort of indicator for Christians. We can see them in the catacombs of Rome or in the oldest Churches like in Aquilea in Northern Italy. 

Participating in Jesus' Theo-Drama

Passion Sunday/Palm Sunday: March 24, 2024

Readings: Mk 11:1-10; Isaiah 50:4–7; Psalm 22:8–9, 17–20, 23–24; Philippians 2:6–11; Mark 14:1–15:47

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

The passion of our Lord is the passion for the world and its humanity. We are at the threshold of the Holy Week with the celebration of Palm Sunday or Passion Sunday. We begin a very intense spiritual journey with the celebration of this Palm Sunday. We are also commemorating a very historical event that took place in the life of Jesus. By recalling and re-enacting this event which is so powerful and poignant, we are invited to walk with Jesus in this moment of great expectation of salvation. The ultimate sacrifice of our Lord happens on Good Friday, where everything that was planned by God gets accomplished and fulfilled. The liturgical readings of today, take us to that memory of which is still preserved by the Church.

1. Attentiveness to God's voice

On this Palm Sunday, the theo-drama (drama of God) begins and gets enacted in Jerusalem and Jesus is the protagonist. The entire event revolves around the God-Man, Jesus. The passage from Isaiah 50:4–7 offers profound insights into obedience, suffering, and steadfastness in the face of adversity. Hundreds of years ago, Prophet Isaiah spoke about Jesus and how his end is going to be.  Isaiah speaks, "The Sovereign Lord has given me a well-instructed tongue, to know the word that sustains the weary." This verse is a beautiful reminder that spiritual wisdom and the ability to comfort others are gifts from God. It challenges us to ask ourselves how we are using our words. Are we using the right words? Are we speaking life into others, offering comfort and wisdom when they are weary? This verse calls us to be mindful of our speech, recognizing that the ability to uplift others is a divine gift that should be nurtured and cherished.

Time of Judgement of this World!

05th Sunday of Lent: March 17, 2024

Readings: Jeremiah 31:31–34; Psalm 51:3–4, 12–13, 14–15; Hebrews 5:7–9; John 12:20–33

 To listen to my audio-video reflections via YouTube, please click here: https://youtu.be/c8TF4_VC_yo

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.

Long Loving Look at the Cross in Our Lives

 This homily is preached at the Jesuit Priest's gathering 10 March 2024. Click to listen (audio only).

Cross of Christ: A Way to Salvation

04th Sunday of Lent: March 10, 2024

Readings: 2 Chronicles 36:14–16, 19–23; Psalms 137:1–6; Ephesians 2:4–10; John 3:14–21

 To listen to my audio-video reflections via YouTube, please click here: https://youtu.be/jzB1eZn2CjM

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.

Following the Lord and His Mission!

03rd Sunday of Lent: March 03, 2024

Readings: Exodus 20:1–17; Psalm 19:8–11; 1 Corinthians 1:22–25; John 2:13–25

 To listen to my audio-video reflections via YouTube, please click here: https://youtu.be/rXzpgfePe_0

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. 

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

 2nd Sunday of Lent: February 25, 2024

Readings: Genesis 22:1–2, 9–13, 15–18; Psalm 116:10, 15–19; Romans 8:31–34; Mark 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.

Never Abandoned and Eternal Promises of God

First Sunday of Lent: February 18, 2024

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

 To listen to my audio-video reflections via YouTube, please click here: https://youtu.be/g5KXVohNn8U?si=fOwUgJocjGijWOJu

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.

No Offence: We Need Healing

 06th Sunday of Ordinary Time: February 11, 2024

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

 To listen to my audio-video reflections via YouTube, please click here: https://youtu.be/0BsZ7pO0WZo

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.

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

05th Sunday in Ordinary Time: February 04, 2024

Readings:  Job 7:1–4, 6–7; Psalm 147:1–6; 1 Corinthians 9:16–19, 22–23; Mark 1:29–39

 To listen to my audio-video reflections via YouTube, please click here: https://youtu.be/KgGEcVv8X7Q

"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.

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

04th Sunday in Ordinary Time: January 28, 2024

Readings: Deuteronomy 18:15–20; Psalm 95:1–2, 6–9; 1 Corinthians 7:32–35; Mark 1:21–28

 To listen to my audio-video reflections via YouTube, please click here: https://youtu.be/N3ROFZHwEjg?si=jL--Owy2Epc6zRD1

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.

Giving Witness Under God's Watchful Eyes

Third Sunday in Ordinary Time: January 21, 2024

Readings: Jonah 3:1–5,10; Psalm 25:4–9; 1 Corinthians 7:29–31; Mark 1:14–20

 To listen to my audio-video reflections via YouTube, please click here: https://youtu.be/wRjxIzy4-w8?si=YJ5RTT6usuhklc2Z

Often, we want our will to be done. We are also certain that our thinking is perfect and that there are no errors possible in such planning. Due to such thinking, any sort of unexpected thing happening to us is considered bad. Instead of accepting what comes our way and trying our best to do everything possible to bring glory to God, we choose the other way. As a result, we fall into unnecessary desolations, frustrations, unhappiness, anxiety, fear, and disinterestedness in life. When we look at the liturgical readings of this Third Sunday in Ordinary Time, we tend to think that God's ways are marvelous. Man chooses one and God chooses the other. Prophet Jonah is the best example before us. So too, was the life of the early disciples of Jesus, who began to tread unknown paths with Jesus. 

1. Divine Mercy and Second Chances under God's Watchful Eyes

Jonah 3:1–5,10 in the Bible tells the fascinating story of Jonah's second call to prophesy to the city of Nineveh and the repentance of the Ninevites. A man who ran away from taking up the prophecy comes back and takes up an even harder job than the first. Because he went through horrific experiences and realized that God is with him in good and bad.  The fact that God gave Jonah a second chance to deliver His message to Nineveh reflects the divine attribute of mercy as well as his own chance to survive the close surveillance of God. The story is a beautiful reminder to us that no matter how we may have resisted or failed in the past, God is always willing to give us another opportunity to fulfill His purpose. It's a call for us to recognize and appreciate the boundless mercy of God in our lives.