The Enduring Power of God

5th Sunday in Ordinary Time: February 05, 2023

Readings: Isaiah 58:7–10; Psalm 112:4–9; 1 Corinthians 2:1–5; Matthew 5:13–16

To listen to my audio-video reflections via YouTube, please click here: https://youtu.be/F-55lDPeHiE

As we reflect upon our spiritual journey and seek a deeper connection with God during this ordinary time of the year, the liturgical readings of this Sunday invite us to trust in the enduring power of God. This is possible when we become the salt of the earth and light of the world.

1. Our commitment to the call of our Lord

On the 2nd of February, the Church celebrated the feast of the Presentation of the Lord, a day specially dedicated for all the consecrated people.  It's a day when we recalled how precious and significant our call is especially being called to be the partakers of the mission of the Lord. Just like Jesus called the first disciples and their immediate response to leave everything and follow him, we too are in his team. This reminds us of the importance of putting our faith in action and being willing to let go of our old ways and commitments in order to follow Jesus more fully. In the First Reading of today, we hear about the prophet Isaiah being called by God to be a light to the nations. This is a reminder of our own call to share the light of the gospel and bring hope and comfort to those around us.

Called to be Holy

 4th Sunday in Ordinary Time: January 29, 2023

Readings: Zephaniah 2:3; 3:12-13; Psalm 146:6-10; 1 Corinthians 1:26-31; Matthew 5:1-12

Jesus preaches the "Sermon on the Mount"

We are living in an ever-changing world.  In recent years, we have been noticing this change happening in a very fast and rapid space. This is both positive and negative. With the arrival of Covid -19, a lot of things have changed in our lifestyle and well-being. Even though constant change has been a permanent feature of our life in this world, yet it is challenging to adapt to such sudden changes. In the midst of such dramatic changes, there are certain things like values, and ideals that are permanent and eternal. They have a future with a sense of universal applications. On the Fourth Sunday of the Ordinary Time, the readings focus on certain such values which we must imbibe and integrate in our lives particularly, humility, mercy, kindness, righteousness, blessedness, peace and purity of heart. 

1. Called to be blessed at all times

The Gospel writer St Matthew (5:1-12a,) gives us Jesus' well-known "Sermon on the Mount." This rich sermon of Jesus speaks about the importance of humility, meekness, peacemaking, righteousness, mourning, mercy, purity, and perseverance in the face of persecution as the path towards spiritual fulfillment. These teachings, known as the "Beatitudes," are considered by many to be a cornerstone of Christian spiritual reflection and practice. "Blessed" means spiritually fortunate and prosperous, blissful, delighted, and content.  In verse 3, Jesus teaches that the spiritually poor, or those who recognize their spiritual poverty and recognize their own limitations, rely completely on God.  In verse 4, those who mourn, or who grieve over their sins and the sins of the world, will be comforted by God.

Transformative Experience of the Call of Jesus

3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time: January 22, 2023

Readings: Isaiah 8:23–9:3; Psalm 27:1, 4, 13–14; 1 Corinthians 1:10–13, 17; Matthew 4:12–23

The purpose of our Christian living is to grow spiritually and build a deeper relationship with God. It is, indeed, a great challenge today when we read the newspapers, WhatsApp messages, and listen to the television news. We see so much evil and hear only bad news. The sense of God is slowly disappearing from the public eye. Might seems to be right. Therefore, our personal faith journey must be strong and vibrant, resilient and encouraging in order to face the negative trends and hopeless situations which take us away from what we consciously strive to achieve, which is our relationship with God. 

1. Call with a purpose

On this Third Sunday in Ordinary Time, we have beautiful readings from the Bible. Matthew 4:12-23 tells the story of Jesus beginning his ministry in Galilee after the courageous ministry of repentance of St John the Baptist. In fact, Jesus begins his preaching and healing ministry, when John the Baptist had to stop abruptly when he was put into prison by King Herod. His message “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand” sent shock waves to thrones of power.  Jesus sees a great need of gathering a band of disciples to accompany him in his mission of preaching the Reign of God. Hence, four brothers from two families are chosen Simon and Andrew, James and John. They would follow him and become "fishers of men."

Called to be the Light to the Nations

Second Sunday in Ordinary Time: January 15, 2023

Readings: Isaiah 49:3, 5–6; Psalm 40:2, 4, 7–10; 1 Corinthians 1:1–3; John 1:29–34

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Autonomy seems to be what is selling today! It means that we are particular about our knowledge, freedom, desires, wants, wishes, and such other things. That must be the reason why so many would like to live independently in their homes and houses often alone. Living in a larger family or in a religious community is becoming cumbersome and difficult. However, the liturgical readings of today tell us something contrary to what we hold dear to our modern-day lifestyle. As we make our journey of life into the ordinary days of the year, the Church invites us to imitate our Lord who valued family and community life. He made himself available to others and their well-being. Lord Jesus calls us to be his followers, to love and serve others in his name.

1. Called to be the light to the nations 

Prophet Isaiah 49:3-6 speaks of a servant of God who will be a light to the nations and bring salvation to the ends of the earth. In Christian theology, this servant is understood to be Jesus. He is often referred to as the "Light of the World" in the New Testament, and is said to have come to bring salvation and enlightenment to all people, regardless of their race or ethnicity. The idea of Jesus as the light to the nations suggests that through faith in him, people can find spiritual guidance and direction, and that his message has the power to transform lives and bring people closer to God. This concept is often reflected in Christian teachings and practices, such as the sacraments, prayer, and acts of mercy and service to others.

Celebrating the Manifestation of Jesus as Salvation

The Feast of the Epiphany of the Lord, Jesus Christ: January 8, 2023

Readings: Isaiah 60:1–6; Psalm 72:1–2, 7–8, 10–13; Ephesians 3:2–3, 5–6; Matthew 2:1–12

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In our world today, anything new either a product or service that comes into the market is viewed with skepticism. However, the business houses look at such products or services as either a threat or an opportunity. In a competitive market economy, there is a place for everything including new ideas and new possibilities. When we apply the same principle to our society, anything new is seen either with cynicism or a threat to the already existing ethos, norms, or value system. We find it difficult to adjust and nurture something new and good for our own benefit. Similarly, 2000 years ago, the birth of Jesus also brought fear and uneasiness into the royal palaces and thrones of power. However, in other quarters of faith and reason, the birth of Jesus opened a new chapter in the history of humanity. The feast of the Epiphany is, indeed, such an event, which would change completely the face of the religious scenario for the rest of world history. 

1. Revelation of Baby Jesus as the Saviour of humanity

Today, the Church celebrates the Feast of the Manifestation of Jesus Christ, also known as the Feast of Epiphany. It celebrates the revelation of Jesus as the Son of God and the savior of the world. It is typically celebrated on January 6th, when the Eastern (Orthodox) Churches celebrate it as Christmas. The word "epiphany" comes from the Greek word "epiphaneia," which means "revelation" or "manifestation" or "appearance." The Feast of Epiphany commemorates the three Wise Men, or Magi, who visited Jesus after his birth and brought him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. It is also associated with the story of Jesus' baptism, when he was revealed to be the Son of God.

Following in the Footsteps of Mary, the Mother of God

 The Octave Day of Christmas: Solemnity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Mother of God: January 01, 2023

Mass Readings: Numbers 6:22-27; Psalm 67:2-3, 5, 6, 8; Galatians 4:4-7; Luke 2:16-21

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Today is the 1st day of the year 2023! On this special day of the year, we celebrate the Solemnity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Mother of God. It is a Catholic feast day that is celebrated on January 1st. This feast day honors Mary, the mother of Jesus, and her role as the mother of God. Mary is a central figure in Christianity and is revered as a woman of very special significance by Catholics and many other Christian denominations. The celebration of this feast day dates back to the 4th century and was established by Pope Julius I as a way to reaffirm the belief in the divinity of Jesus Christ. The celebration of this feast day is a way for Catholics to honor Mary and recognize her important role in the life and ministry of Jesus. It is also a time to reflect on Mary's own faith and devotion to God, and to draw inspiration from her example.

1. Role of Mother Mary in the public ministry of Jesus

Mary played a powerful role in the public ministry of Jesus, although the accounts of her involvement in the Gospels are limited. According to the New Testament, Mary was present at the beginning of Jesus' ministry and present at the wedding in Cana where Jesus performed his first miracle. After this, there is little mention of Mary in the Gospels in relation to Jesus' public ministry. However, it is likely that Mary was an important source of support and encouragement for Jesus as he carried out his ministry and preached throughout Galilee and Judea. Mary was also present at the Crucifixion of Jesus, standing by his side as he died on the cross.

Christmas - Birthing of God in our Midst

Christmas 2022 - 25 December 2022 General Reflections on Christmas, the birth of Jesus Christ

Readings: Isaiah 52:7–10; Psalms 98:1–6; Hebrews 1:1–6; John 1:1–18

Christmas Crib at St Joseph's CBSE, Bengaluru
To listen to my audio-video reflections via YouTube, please click here: https://youtu.be/BCF1G0ML9rg

With great excitement, we celebrate Christmas, Jesus Christ’s humble birth in Bethlehem on a manger two thousand years ago. We commemorate this event of God becoming like one of us, of flesh and blood in a unique way by attending liturgy in our Churches and parishes. We gather together as a worshipping community to recall that event which is a once and for all in the history of humanity but with an eye on the future. A future, which has to be viewed from our eyes of faith that God continues to be born in us and live in us and with us in an extraordinary way through his graces, and the strength that he gives to live our Christian lives. 

1. When God wills, nobody can put constraints

Firstly, the liturgical readings on this day significantly clarify that God continues to love the world and its people. God loves to bring forth His plans of salvation through concrete people and through concrete actions. If we contemplate the mystery of the birth of Jesus, we are more than startled than relieved of this gripping story. Mary is conceived through the Holy Spirit; she was just engaged to Joseph, and when the days arrived to deliver her baby she had no place, moreover, people around her were not generous, and were not ready to give a place to her. What does it mean? 

Emmanuel: God with us

4th Sunday of Advent - December 18, 2022

Readings:  Isaiah 7:10–14; Psalm 24:1–6; Romans 1:1–7; Matthew 1:18–24

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The fourth Sunday of Advent is a time for reflection and preparation. As we near the end of the Advent season, we can take stock of how we have been preparing our hearts and minds for the coming of Jesus. This may include examining our relationship with God and with others, and considering how we can be more open and receptive to the love and grace that Christ offers. It can also be a time to reflect on the prophecies and promises of the Old Testament and to see how they have been fulfilled in the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus. As we prepare to celebrate the birth of Christ, we can also reflect on the significance of this event for our own lives, and consider how we can allow Christ to be born anew in us.

1. An act of faith translated into obedience 

Matthew 1:18-24 is the story of the virgin birth of Jesus. In this passage, we see that Mary was betrothed to Joseph, but before they could be married, she was found to be pregnant through the power of the Holy Spirit. Joseph, being a righteous man, did not want to disgrace Mary publicly, so he planned to divorce her quietly. According to the laws and customs of the time, this would have brought disgrace upon Mary and Joseph. But instead of reacting in fear or anger, Joseph chose to trust in God and to follow the instructions given to him by the angel. But an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream and told him not to be afraid to take Mary as his wife because the child she was carrying was conceived by the Holy Spirit. The angel also told Joseph that the child would be named Jesus and would be the savior of his people, fulfilling the prophecies of the Old Testament.

Advent: Rejoicing in the Lord Always

 3rd Sunday of Advent: November 11, 2022

Readings: Isaiah 35:1–6, 10; Psalm 146:6–10; James 5:7–10; Matthew 11:2–11

(St John the Baptist is visited by the two)
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Today, we celebrate the third Sunday of Advent, also known as Gaudete Sunday. The word "gaudete" comes from the Latin word for "rejoice," and it is the first word of the entrance antiphon of the Mass: "Rejoice in the Lord always; again I say, rejoice" (Philippians 4:4). As we light the pink candle on our Advent wreath, we are reminded of the joy and hope that comes with the birth of Jesus. In a world filled with darkness and despair, we have a reason to be joyful and hopeful. 

1. Be the people of joy

This Sunday is called Gaudete Sunday because it is a time for us to rejoice and be glad, for the coming of the Lord is near. We are now halfway through Advent, and the anticipation of Christmas is growing stronger. But Advent is also a time for us to reflect on our own lives and how we are preparing for the coming of Christ. Are we living lives that reflect His light and love? Are we sharing that light with others and bringing them closer to Him? This is a time when we reflect on the words of the prophet Isaiah, who spoke of the coming of the Messiah and the hope and joy that he brings to all who believe in him.