The Pulpit Online: October 2020

Saturday, 31 October 2020

Saturday of the Thirtieth Week in Ordinary Time (II) (31st October, 2020)

Homily (Reflection) for Saturday of the Thirtieth Week in Ordinary Time (II) (31st October, 2020) on the Gospel
Phil 1:18-26; Ps 41:2-3.5. (R. v. 3); Lk 14:1.7-11.
Topic: Consider others.

Jesus went to a Pharisee’s house for a meal in today’s gospel. He watched how the guests scrambled for places of honour. Jesus therefore advised them not to take the place of honour when invited for a wedding banquet to avoid being asked to vacate the place for someone more distinguished.

But why do people scramble for places of honour? They include pride, fear of uncertainty, and so on. I would like us to consider only the fear of uncertainty; not being sure that those at the lower places can get anything.

Whenever people have the opportunity of taking directly from anything common, many do either forget that it is qualified by common or the meaning of common. At public functions for instance, it is not uncommon to see people take food, meat, drinks, and so on as if they are for them alone. Those who handle public coffers are even worse because they do not suppose to touch it.

Today’s gospel challenges us to consider our brothers and sisters always. Should everyone be conscious of the feelings of others, the rush for places of honour among other things will drop and kingdom of God closer.

Bible Reading: Phil 2:1-11.

Thought for today: Consider the common good.

Let us pray: God give us a heart that will understand the needs of others – Amen.

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Friday, 30 October 2020

Friday of the Thirtieth Week in Ordinary Time (II) (30th October, 2020)

Homily (Reflection) for Friday of the Thirtieth Week in Ordinary Time (II) (30th October, 2020) on the Gospel
Phil 1:1-11; Ps 110:1-6. (R.v.2); Lk 14:1-6.
Topic: Hunting faults.

While Jesus was going for a meal, people watched Him closely. Just before Him was a man with dropsy. Jesus asked the lawyers and Pharisees, “Is it lawful to cure people on the sabbath, or not?” They were silent. He took the man, healed him, and sent him away. Jesus again queried, “If any of you has a child, or an ox that has fallen into a well, will you not immediately pull it out on a sabbath day?” Again, they were silent.

Those who watched Jesus was only interested in finding faults. They could not answer any of the questions Jesus asked them.

What about us? We ought to go about doing good to everyone, cf. Acts 10:38; 1Tim 5:10. This is what we are called as children of God to do and never witch-hunting others. Even if one notices the fault of his/her brother/sister, one suppose to pray to God and never see it as an opportunity to deal with him/her, cf. 1Jn 5:16. We are all children of the same father and mother, cf. Mal 2:10; Rev 12:17.

Bible Reading: Jas 1:12-18; Lk 6:27-42.

Thought for today: We are to help and not to destroy.

Let us pray: May God help us to always look for ways to help and never to destroy – Amen.

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Thursday, 29 October 2020

Thursday of the Thirtieth Week in Ordinary Time (II) (29th October, 2020)

Homily (Reflection) for Thursday of the Thirtieth Week in Ordinary Time (II) (29th October, 2020) on the Gospel
Eph 6:10-20; Ps 143:1-2.9-10. (R. v. 1); Lk 13:31-35.
Topic: Watch their remarks.

Some Pharisees said to Jesus in today’s gospel, “Get away from here, for Herod wants to kill you.” He replied in part,

...today, tomorrow, and the next day I must be on my way, because it is impossible for a prophet to be killed outside Jerusalem. Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the city that kills the prophets and stones those who are sent to it!

Jesus’ remark about Jerusalem is certainly not complimentary. Yet the city and its inhabitants ignored it. Hence, His efforts to gather them together as a hen gathers her brood under her wings proved abortive.

We often talk evils. Sometimes, we target these against one other. And maybe because of this, many do count whoever makes negative comment against them as their enemies.

It is wrong to go about looking for people to speak well of us. However, some do overdo it. Both positive and negative comments people make about us are worth giving attention. Negative comments are neither in themselves enough sign of hatred nor positive ones signs of love. Both positive and negative comments may aid us discover ourselves more.

Bible Reading: Jn 12:37-43.

Thought for today: Why do they talk?

Let us pray: Lord, give us the grace to discern why others talk – Amen.

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Wednesday, 28 October 2020

Feast of Saints Simon and Jude, App. (28th October, 2020)

Homily (Reflection) for the Feast of Saints Simon and Jude, App. (28th October, 2020) on the Gospel and the Feast
Eph 2:19-22; Ps 18:2-5. (R. v.5); Lk 6:12-19.

According to legend, Saints Simon and Jude preached the Gospel in Mesopotamia and Persia. Simon was nicknamed the zealot because of his zeal for the Jewish law which he practised before his call. He became the Bishop of Jerusalem after preaching the Gospel in Samaria. He suffered martyrdom, being sawn in half at Suanir, Persia.

Jude Thaddeus was son of Cleophas, the brother of Saint James the Lesser and relative of Jesus. Jude was the one who asked Jesus at the Last Supper why He would not manifest Himself to the whole world after His resurrection. He was known for healing and exorcising pagan idols. He was beaten to death with a club, and then beheaded post-mortem.

Topic: First step first.

Today’s gospel consists of two parts; the choosing of the twelve apostles (Lk 6:12-16), and Jesus’ teaching and healing (Lk 6:17-19). This homily focuses on the first part.

Jesus spent the night in prayer to God on the mountain. He afterwards called His disciples at daybreak and chose twelve of them, and called them apostles.

We know that Jesus is God. Hence, He told us, “I and the Father are one” (Jn 10:30). Yet, He spent the whole night in prayer to God in today’s gospel.

He also told us, “I am the true vine, and my Father is the vinedresser” (Jn 15:1). We are His branches. Apart from Him, we can do nothing, cf. Jn 15:5. The vinedresser makes the fruitful branches to bear even more, cf. Jn 15:2.

Apostles Simon and Jude we celebrate today were appointed to be with Jesus, and to be sent out to preach, cf. Mk 3:14. We are a chosen race, cf. 1Pt 2:9. But we must be connected to Jesus through prayer. At every point, we must spend time with God in prayer because He is the owner of everything. And whatever is contrary to His will be in vain, cf. Ps 127:1. We must remember always, “Unless the LORD builds the house, those who build it labour in vain. Unless the LORD watches over the city, the watchman stays awake in vain” (Ps 127:1).

Bible Reading: Eph 2:11-22.

Thought for today: We need God always.

Let us pray: God, help us to give suitable time to all that is necessary – Amen.

Saints Simon and Jude – Amen.

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Tuesday, 27 October 2020

Tuesday of the Thirtieth Week in Ordinary Time (II) (27th October, 2020)

Homily (Reflection) for Tuesday of the Thirtieth Week in Ordinary Time (II) (27th October, 2020) on the Gospel
Eph 5:21-33; Ps 127:1-5. (R. cf. v.1); Lk 13:18-21.
Topic: Things that matter.

We normally go about in search of things that have the potential of bringing about great results. In the process of doing this, we trample down on many things we judged insignificant.

However, in today’s gospel, Jesus takes our attention away from the conventional ‘great things’ to the things that really matter. This gospel is made up of the parables of the mustard seed and the yeast. Jesus first compared the kingdom of God to a mustard seed that someone sowed in the garden. It grew and became a tree, and provided branches for the birds of the air to make nests. He also compared it to yeast a woman mixed “with three measures of flour until all of it was leavened.”

Both the mustard seed and the yeast represented the things people easily look down on. However, their real potentials were far beyond their physical appearances. Things that really matter are not distinguished by their sizes. Their physical sizes are not always colossal.

We must take everything, both the good and the bad, very serious. It is impossible to say to what extent the positive or negative effects of our actions, inactions, words, and thoughts will go. Hence, Saint Paul admonished us, “whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God” (1Cor 10:31). Again, “whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him” (Col 3:17). And we must do everything as services to the Lord, cf. Col 3:23.

Bible Reading: Phil 3:12-4:1.

Thought for today: Do not neglect anything.

Let us pray: Lord, give us the grace to see your goodness in everything especially those ones people often neglect.

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Monday, 26 October 2020

Monday of the Thirtieth Week in Ordinary Time (II) (26th October, 2020)

Homily (Reflection) for Monday of the Thirtieth Week in Ordinary Time (II) (26th October, 2020) on the Gospel
Eph 4:32 – 5:8; Ps 1:1-4.6. (R. cf. Eph 5:1); Lk 13:10-17.
Topic: Setting priorities.

Jesus called a woman who had been crippled for eighteen years, and said to her, “Woman, you are set free from your ailment.” Immediately He laid His hands on her, she stood straight and praised God. The leader of the synagogue angrily told the crowd not to come on the Sabbaths for healing. However, Jesus replied,

You hypocrites! Does not each of you on the Sabbath untie his ox or his donkey from the manger, and lead it away to give it water? And ought not this woman, a daughter of Abraham who Satan bound for eighteen years, be set free from this bondage on the Sabbath day?

This response put all his opponents to shame and the entire crowd rejoiced.

Jesus’ opponents never set their priorities right. The rights of their animals are more important to them than that of the owners of the animals.

This is not foreign to what many do today. Sometimes, we accord more importance to one property or another more than human beings. Compare the way we take care of for instance our cars to how we take care of others. Sometimes, we even neglect ourselves.

We must set our priorities right. Not even the whole world can be compared to a person, cf. Matt 16:26; Mk 8:36; Lk 9:25.

Bible Reading: Lk 9:23-27.

Thought for today: Life is superior.

Let us pray: May God help us to set our priorities right – Amen.

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Sunday, 25 October 2020

Thirtieth Sunday of the Year (A) (25th October, 2020)

Homily (Reflection) for the Thirtieth Sunday of the Year (A) (25th October, 2020) on the Gospel
Ex 22:20-26; Ps 17:2-4.47.51 (R. V. 2); 1Thess 1:5-10; Matt 22:34-40.

One man while reprimanding his son complained bitterly that he had done everything he could as a father. According to him, no one could love better than he did. He repeated this a good number of times. At a point, his son excused himself in a very polite manner, went into his room and came back searching through the pages of the bible. His father stopped with his mouth wide open and his brain filled with possibilities moped at him. After a while, he referred his father to John 15:13. The man quickly took the bible and it reads: “No one has greater love than this, to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” The man could not make a meaning out of the passage. Hence he enquired what the passage meant in the context and the boy told him: “Despite the fact that you have boasted so much of loving me more than any person can love his/her son. I doubt so much how true this claim is because if a man could die for his friends, a father who truly loves his son is expected to do much more than dying.”

Topic: Two wings of Christian love.

In today’s gospel, a Pharisee and a lawyer by profession tested Jesus by asking Him, “Teacher, which commandment in the law is the greatest?” In reply, Jesus defined Christian love using Deuteronomy 6:5 and Leviticus 19:18, cf. Gal 5:14 - “You shall love the Lord your God with all your soul, and with all your mind’. This is the greatest and first commandment. And the second is like it: ‘You shall love your neighbour as yourself’” (Matt 22: 37-39).

Christian love has two dimensions – love of God (vertical) and love of neighbour (horizontal). These two dimensions are qualified. Generally, Christian love is an unconditional love. Loving God demands one’s unreserved love hence with one’s entire soul and mind. On the other hand, one is expected to love his/her neighbour just as he or she loves him/herself.

Christian love is not something that exists only for a while. According to Song of Songs, “Many waters cannot quench love, neither can floods drown it. If one offered for love all the wealth of his house, it would be utterly scorned” (Song 8:7). Hence, Saint Francis de Sales rightly gave us the standard with which we can measure love: “The measure of love is to love without measure”. According to Saint John, “To love is to live according to his commandments: this is the commandment which you have heard since the beginning, to live a life of love” (2Jn 1:6). To love God is to keep his commandments cf. 1Jn 5:3. Earlier Saint John wrote:

If anyone says, ‘I love God,’ and hates his brother, he is a liar; for he who does not love his brother whom he has seen, cannot love God whom he has not seen. And this commandment we have from him, that he who loves God should love his brother also (1Jn 4:20-21).

Although God blessed people with various gifts, but love ranks higher than the rest. In his first letter to the Corinthians he wrote:

If I speak in the tongues of mortals and of angels, but do not have love, I am a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal. And if I have prophetic powers, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have all faith, so as to remove mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing. If I give away all my possessions, and if I hand over my body so that I may boast, but do not have love, I gain nothing (1Cor 13:1-3).

There is no gain saying that love hurts. Yet no one is free not to love. In his first letter to the Corinthians Saint Paul wrote that he who does not love God is cursed, cf. 1Cor 16:22. In his first letter, Saint John also wrote: “By this it may be seen who are the children of God, and who are the children of the devil: whoever does not do right is not of God, nor he who does not love his brother” (1Jn 3:10). Saint John admonishes us: “Little children, let us not love in word or speech but in deed and in truth” (1Jn 3:18). “Love covers a multitude of sins (1Pt 4:8). The love of neighbour is the royal law, cf. Jas 2:8.

Just like the boy we saw in our introductory story, for some of us, the onus to love lies on the other. However, there is something better than being loved. An anonymous writer expressed this in these words: “If there is anything better than to be loved it is loving”. And Jesus did not command us to see that others love us as themselves, but to love our neighbour as ourselves. Love must be free with no string attached to it because love seizes to be love when it seizes to be free. Some see acts of love as baits to get others dance to their tunes. To love because you want the other do as you want is not love. An American Psychologist, Dr Joyce Brothers has this to say: “Love comes when manipulation stops; when you think more about the other person than about his or her reactions to you. When you dare to reveal yourself fully. When you dare to be vulnerable.”

My dear brothers and sisters, let us genuinely love our brothers and sisters. “My love be with you all in Christ Jesus. Amen” (1Cor 16:24).

Bible Reading: Rom 13: 8-10; 1Cor 13: 1-13; Phil 2:2b-4; 1Jn 2:29-3:24; 4: 7-21.

Thought for today: Do you love God and your neighbour as you ought?

Let us pray: My God, You are love. Teach me how to love you and my neighbours as I ought and also give me the strength to carry it out – Amen.

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Friday, 23 October 2020

Saturday of the Twenty-Ninth Week in Ordinary Time (II) (24th October, 2020)

Homily (Reflection) for Saturday of the Twenty-Ninth Week in Ordinary Time (II) (24th October, 2020) on the Gospel (BVM on Saturday, Opt. Mem.)
Eph 4:7-16; Ps 121:1-5. (R. v. 1); Lk 13:1-9.
Topic: The exit.

Today’s gospel like yesterday’s is made up of two sections: Jesus’ warning that perishing awaits all who refuses to repent (Lk 13:1-5), and the parable of the barren fig tree (Lk 13:6-9). Our reflection focuses on the first section.

When some who were present told Jesus about the Galileans Pilate mingled their blood with their sacrifices, He replied, “Do you think that because these Galileans suffered in this way they were worse sinners than all other Galileans? No, I tell you; but unless you repent, you will all perish as they did.” He also said that the eighteen the tower of Siloam fell on and killed were not the worst offenders than all living in Jerusalem. Jesus concluded with these words, “but unless you repent, you will all perish just as they did.”

Whenever we read or heard about either the saints or sinners, many do consider themselves not more than spectators. However the opportunity of seeing or reading or hearing them ought to help us in making decisions. It is an opportunity to know that they are all possible. Hence, the letter to the Hebrews reads, “Remember your leaders, those who spoke to you the word of God; consider the outcome of their life, and imitate their faith” (Heb 13:7).

If only we can repent today, we will rejoice in heaven with all the saints of God. Repentance is the exit from eternal damnation.

Bible Reading: Heb 12:14-29.

Thought for today: Repent.

Let us pray: Lord, strengthen us to be firm before every temptation – Amen.

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Friday of the Twenty-Ninth Week in Ordinary Time (II) (23rd October, 2020)

Homily (Reflection) for Friday of the Twenty-Ninth Week in Ordinary Time (II) (23rd October, 2020) on the Gospel
Eph 4:1-6; Ps 23:1-6. (R. cf. v.6); Lk 12:54-59.
Topic: Settle out of court.

Today’s gospel is made up of two sections: Jesus’ teaching on interpreting the time (Lk 12:54-56), and His teaching on settling with opponents (Lk 12:57-59). However, we shall focus on the second part in this homily.

Jesus advised all of us,

...when you go with your accuser before a magistrate, on the way make an effort to settle the case, or you may be dragged before the judge, and the judge hand you over to the officer, and the officer throw you in prison.

Our existence here on earth is transient. At its end, “...each of us will be accountable to God” (Rom 14:12; cf. 1Pt 4:5). Therefore, looking at this passage from the point of view of our earthly existence, we are on our way to the judge.

Many on this journey are weighed down by different burdens especially the grudges we harbour for one another. I have even heard some say that theirs will be resolved in heaven. One wonders where they really mean and how these will be resolved. However, that one considers him/herself as innocent is not a guarantee that he/she will win a case. Hence, the book of Proverbs advised us against rushing to the judge, cf. Prov 25:8-9.

Resolve every issue with your brothers and sisters. Do not keep any for the world to come. Saint Paul warned that people of this sort will not inherit the kingdom of God, cf. Gal 5:19-21. He cautioned said, “To have lawsuits at all with one another is defeat for you” (1Cor 6:7).

Bible Reading: 1Cor 6:1-11.

Thought for today: Fight for the world to come.

Let us pray: God, help us settle every issue we have among ourselves – Amen.

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Thursday, 22 October 2020

Memorial of Saint John Paul II, Pp. (22nd October, 2020)

Homily (Reflection) for the Memorial of Saint John Paul II, Pp. (22nd October, 2020) on the Gospel and the Memorial
Eph 3:14-21; Ps 32:1-2.4-5.11-12.18-19. (R. v.5); Lk 12:49-53.

Pope Saint John Paul II (the Great) was born Karol Józef Wojtyła (18th May, 1920 – 2nd April, 2005). He was ordained a priest on 1st November 1946, consecrated a bishop on 28th September, 1958, created a Cardinal on 26th June, 1967, and a Pope from 16th October, 1978 to 2nd April, 2005. John Paul II improved the Church's relations with Judaism, Islam, the Eastern Orthodox Church, and the Anglican Communion. He visited 129 countries during his pontificate, beatified 1,340 people and canonised 483 saints. A key goal of his papacy was to transform and reposition the Catholic Church. He was beatified on 1st May, 2011 by Pope Benedict XVI and was canonized on 27th April, 2014 by Pope Francis. Pope Saint John Paul II is the patron saint of the Archdiocese of Kraków, Young Catholics, Families, among others.

Topic: Cause of division.

Jesus defined His mission in today’s gospel in a way that is often confusing. He said in part,

I came to bring fire to the earth....Do you think that I have come to bring peace to the earth? No, I tell you, but rather division! From now on five in one household will be divided, three against two and two against three....

Based on this, some see lack of peace as synonymous with the presence of Christ. However, the bible calls God the God of peace, and also calls on us all to strive for peace with all, cf. Heb 12:14. 13:20; Judg 6:24; 2Cor 13:11; 1Thess 5:13. Isaiah identified the Messiah, as the prince of Peace. And His peace shall be endless, cf. Is 9:6-7. Again, Christ preached peace to all, cf. Eph 2:17.

However, there is no peace for the wicked, cf. Is 48:22. 57:21. True peace comes from God, cf. Jn 14:27. 16:33. It is the gift of the Holy Spirit, cf. Gal 5:22; Rom 8:6. Hence, God keeps those who trust in Him in perfect peace, cf. Is 26:3. The Psalmist wrote, “Let me hear what God the LORD will speak, for he will speak peace to his people, to his saints, to those who turn to him in their hearts” (Ps 85:8). Furthermore, peace requires proper disposition, cf. Matt 10:13; Lk 10:6.

Jesus did not call us to cause wars. However, Christian witnessing is often met by opposition, cf. 1Thess 2:14-15; 2Tim 3:8. Borrowing the words of the Psalmist, although Christians are for peace, but others are for fighting, cf. Ps 120:7. Our “God is not a God of confusion but of peace” (1Cor 14:33). Saint John Paul II we celebrate today also preached peace to all.

Bible Reading: Eph 2:11-22.

Thought for today: Christ is our peace, cf. Eph 2:14.

Let us pray: God, may we be people of peace all the days of our lives – Amen.

Saint John Paul II – Pray for us.

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Wednesday, 21 October 2020

Wednesday of Twenty-Ninth Week in Ordinary Time (II) (21st October, 2020)

Homily (Reflection) for Wednesday of Twenty-Ninth Week in Ordinary Time (II) (21st October, 2020) on the Gospel
Eph 3:2-12; Is 12:2-6. (R. cf. v. 3); Lk 12:39-48.
Topic: We get accordingly.

Jesus warns all to be ever ready for no one knows when the Son of Man is coming. Peter asked if the parable of the watchful slaves was for everyone. Jesus replied,

Who then is the faithful and prudent manager whom his master will put in charge of his slaves, to give them their allowance of food at the proper time? Blessed is that slave whom his master will find at work when he arrives.

On the other hand, the slave who thinks that his master is delayed in coming, and

...begins to beat the other slaves...and to eat and drink and get drunk, the master ... will come on a day when he does not expect him and at an hour that he does not know, and will cut him in pieces, and put him with the unfaithful.

Although no one knows when, nevertheless the master will certainly come one day. He will meet each of us as we are. He is ready to judge the living and the dead, cf. 1Pt 4:5. Everyone shall render account of him/herself to God, cf. Rom 14:12. This account will include every careless word, cf. Matt 12:36. And the Son of man will repay every person for what he/she has done, cf. Matt 16:27; Rev 22:12; Prov 19:17.

Dear child of God, never renounce God with the wicked nor say in your heart, ‘God will not call us to account,’ cf. Ps 10:13. God will judge His people and will also repay everyone according to his/her deeds, cf. Heb 10:30.

Bible Reading: Rom 14:7-12.

Thought for today: God will judge and reward all.

Let us pray: Lord, help us to be ever conscious that one day we shall stand before your judgement seat to be repaid accordingly – Amen (cf. Rom 14:10; 2Cor 5:10).

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Tuesday, 20 October 2020

Tuesday of Twenty-Ninth Week in Ordinary Time (II) (20th October, 2020)

Homily (Reflection) for Tuesday of Twenty-Ninth Week in Ordinary Time (II) (20th October, 2020) on the Gospel
Eph 2:12-22; Ps 84:9-14. (R. cf. v.9); Lk 12:35-38.
Topic: When will you be ready?

Many have plans of preparing for eternal life. However, a very important question is when.

We ought to be ever ready like servants waiting for their master’s return. Those he finds alert will be blessed. He will make them sit at the table and serve them himself. However, he will come at any time. Jesus goes further,

...if the owner of the house had known at what hour the thief was coming, he would not have let his house be broken into. You also must be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an unexpected hour.

Once, a newly assigned devil was explaining his strategy to a veteran. “My plan,” he said proudly, “is to convince the man that there is no God.” “No,” said the senior devil, “that will not work. All the man has to do is take a look beyond the earth and he will know that God exists.” “Well, then,” said the junior devil, “I will convince him that there is no devil.” “That is more promising,” Replied the veteran tempter, “but, still, if he takes a close look around his own neighbourhood, he will realise that the devil exists.” “Here’s the best plan. Don’t try to convince him that there is no God or that there is no devil. Just tell him there is no hurry.

Father Sagayanathan concluded this story with these words, “Evidently that is the current strategy to bring people down to hell”. Be warned!

Bible Reading: Matt 6:1-4; Acts 10:1-4; Rom 13:8-10; 1Jn 4:7-21.

Thought for today: Are you ready?

Let us pray: Lord, remind me how brief my time on earth is. Remind me that my days are numbered – how fleeting my life is (Ps 39:4) – Amen.

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Monday, 19 October 2020

Monday of Twenty-Ninth Week in Ordinary Time (II) (19th October, 2020)

Homily (Reflection) for Monday of Twenty-Ninth Week in Ordinary Time (II) (19th October, 2020) on the Gospel
Eph 2:1-10; Ps 99. (R. v.3); Lk 12:13-21.
Topic: What consists life.

Someone begged Jesus, “Teacher, tell my brother to divide the family inheritance with me.” But Jesus replied, “Friend, who set me to be a judge or arbitrator over you?” He then warned the crowd, “Take care! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; for one’s life does not consist in the abundance of possessions.” Jesus also told them the parable of a rich man whose land produced abundantly. He planned how to store up his grain and goods for himself. However, “God said to him, ‘You fool! This very night your life is being demanded of you. And the things you have prepared, whose will they be?”

These words ought to ring bell continually in our ears. We are after so many things in this world. Most regrettably, some of them have nothing to offer us even in this present life. Yet we fall headlong in pursuit of them and are sometimes even ready to either die or kill for them.

It is crucial to question ourselves from time to time of the essence of the things we pursue and the ones already in our possessions. Again, it is also necessary to consider if we will leave this world with any.

Bible Reading: Matt 13:44-50.

Thought for today: What consists life.

Let us pray: Lord, direct our hearts and minds after only the things that consist life – Amen.

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Sunday, 18 October 2020

Twenty-Ninth Sunday of the Year (A) (18th October, 2020)

Homily (Reflection) for the Twenty-Ninth Sunday of the Year (A) (18th October, 2020) on the Gospel
Is 45:1.4-6; Ps 95:1.3-5.7-10. (R.v.7); 1Thess 1:1-5; Matt 22:15-21.

There is a story in Father Gerard Fuller’s book, Stories for all seasons about John Wesley’s three-point sermon. During this sermon, his first point was “Get all you can.” To this, an old rich miser said, “Amen.” Next Wesley said, “Keep all you can.” Again, the miser said, “Amen.” Then the preacher said, “Give all you can.” And the selfish man said, “What a shame to spoil a good sermon”.

Topic: Giving to Emperor what is Emperor’s.

As I reflect on today’s gospel, Jesus’ reply to the disciples of the Pharisees and the Herodians who were sent to entrap him: “… Give therefore to the emperor the things that are the emperor’s and to God the things that are God’s” (Matt 22:21) reminds me of lots of things people who belong to different Christian denominations do. Hence, I consider this reply a good material for our Christian reflection.

Some of the actions people try to justify with this reply are quite contrary to the will of God. We shall consider some of these from two perspectives – seeing Christianity as opposing whatever the civil authority decrees whether good or bad and secondly, the syncretistic practices among Christians today.

For many Christians today, one of the major characteristics of Christians is opposing everything other than what his/her church says no matter how stupid. To engage in whatever others who are not members of the same church do is sinful and as such should not be condoned. This has increased the disunity in the world and continues to impoverish many communities. Some Christians fulfil their civic responsibilities only when there is no escape route. In his letter to the Romans, Paul writes:

Let every person be subject to the governing authorities; for there is no authority except from God, and those authorities that exist have been instituted by God. Therefore whoever resists authority resists what God has appointed, and those who resist will incur judgement. For rulers are not a terror to good conduct, but to bad…. do what is good, and you will receive approval (Rom. 13: 1-3).

Going further we read,

For the same reason you also pay taxes, for the authorities are God’s servants, busy with this very thing. Pay to all what is due them – taxes to whom taxes are due, revenue to whom revenue is due, respect to whom respect is due, honour to whom honour is due (Rom 13: 6-7).

And for some Christians, giving to the emperor the things that are the emperor’s and to God the things that are God’s is a licence to syncretistic practices. Hence you see one person consulting both his/her priest (pastor) and a diviner, booking Masses and at the same time offering sacrifices to different deities, and so on. According to people of this kind, consulting the priest, booking Masses and other religious activities are giving to God whereas consulting the diviners, offering to the idols and other fetish activities symbolize giving to emperor. Considering how rampant such practices are today, it is important to find out what God wants from his children? In his first letter to the Corinthians Saint Paul writes:

No, I imply that what pagans sacrifice, they offer to demons and not to God. I do not want you to be partners with demons. You cannot drink the cup of the Lord and the cup of demons. You cannot partake of the table of the Lord and the table of demons (1Cor 10:20-21).

Furthermore in his second letter to the Corinthians, St. Paul also writes:

Do not be mismatched with unbelievers. For what partnership is there between righteousness and lawlessness? Or what fellowship is there between light with darkness? What agreement does Christ have with Beliar? Or what does a believer share with an unbeliever? What agreement has the temple of God with idols? For we are the temple of the living God (2Cor 6:14-16).

Remember,

Whoever says, ‘I have come to know him,’ but does not obey his commandments, is a liar, and in such a person the truth does not exist; but whoever obeys his word, truly in this person the love of God has reached perfection. By this we may be sure that we are in him: whoever says, ‘I abide in him,’ ought to walk just as he walked (1Jn 2: 4-6).

God wants us to be faithful to Him and to the society without involving in any syncretistic activities. Every child of God has responsibilities towards God as well as the society. Again, if one is living outside his biological community, he/she is called to remember God, place of his/her birth, and the place he/she is living, cf. Jer 29:7. It is wrong to be disrespectful to the constituted authorities under the pretext of being a Christian or even a church leader. This reminds me of a priest who yelled at the policeman who asked him for his vehicle particulars and driver’s licence: “Don’t you know that I am a priest? Can’t you see?” That is not what God wants. We must fulfil our obligations to whoever we owe them. Hence, for Henry Templeton, “Christianity does not remove you from the world and its problems; it makes you fit to live in it, triumphantly and usefully.”

Bible Reading: Rom 13:1-7; 1Jn 2:1-17; 1Cor 10:1-32; 2Cor 6:14-7:1.

Thought for today: To what extent do you fulfil your obligations to both the Church and the society? As you consider this, these questions might be useful: Have you been useful to your community? Have you paid your tax? When did you renew your particulars last? Do you drive/ride with a licence? What have you contributed to the church? Do you pay your tithe? And so on.

Let us pray: God, give us all the graces necessary to be faithful to you and to the civil authorities as you want us to be without being syncretistic – Amen.

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Friday, 16 October 2020

Memorial of Saint Ignatius of Antioch, B.M. (17th October, 2020)

Homily (Reflection) for the Memorial of Saint Ignatius of Antioch, B.M. (17th October, 2020) on the Gospel and the Memorial
Eph 1:15-23; Ps 8:2-7. (R. cf. v. 7); Lk 12:8-12.

Saint Ignatius of Antioch (c. 35 – c. 108), was an Apostolic Father, student of the Apostle John, and the third bishop of Antioch. En route to Rome for his martyrdom, he wrote seven letters to different Christian communities in which he discussed among other topics, ecclesiology, the sacraments, and the role of bishops. Saint Ignatius was the first to use the term “catholic” to describe the whole Church. He was martyred during the reign of Emperor Trajan, because he refused to renounce the Christian faith and was brutally devoured by wild beasts in a public spectacle.

Topic: Acknowledging Christ.

Jesus told us in today’s gospel, “...I tell you, everyone who acknowledges me before others, the Son of Man also will acknowledge before the angels of God; but whoever denies me before others will be denied before the angels of God.”

These words of Jesus sound so sweet that often we forget that the call has a price tag. Jesus also said, “...they will deliver you up to tribulation, and put you to death; and you will be hated by all nations for my name's sake” (Matt 24:9; cf. Matt 10:22a; Mk 13:13a; Lk 21:17).

So, while deciding for Jesus, remember that it involves weeping and lamenting. However we should not be discouraged because the sorrows of His disciples will certainly turn into joy, cf. Jn 16:20. The Psalmist captured it in this way, “Weeping may tarry for the night, but joy comes with the morning” (Ps 30:5). Jesus’ assurance remains, “...he who endures to the end will be saved” (Matt 10:22b; cf. MK 13:13b). Saint Ignatius of Antioch we celebrate today endured to the end.

Bible Reading: Matt 10:16-25. 24:9-14.

Thought for today: Between temporal sorrows and eternal damnation.

Let us pray: Lord, assist us to damn every temporal sorrow that will come our way as we acknowledge you before our brothers and sisters – Amen.

Saint Ignatius of Antioch – Pray for us.

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Friday of the Twenty-Eighth Week in Ordinary Time (II) (16th October, 2020)

Homily (Reflection) for Friday of the Twenty-Eighth Week in Ordinary Time (II) (16th October, 2020) on the Gospel
Eph 1:11-14; Ps 32:1-2.4-5.12-13. (R. v.12); Lk 12:1-7.
Topic: Not really.

It is common to see people refer to themselves or being referred to as smart people because they know how to cover their tracks. People eulogize them because they evade punishments due to their offences.

However, Jesus warned His disciples in today’s gospel,

Beware of the yeast of the Pharisees, that is, their hypocrisy. Nothing is covered up that will not be uncovered, and nothing secret that will not become known. Therefore whatever you have said in the dark will be heard in the light, and what you have whispered behind closed doors will be proclaimed from the housetops.

Nothing therefore is really a secret. Although we can be deceived, (cf. Jer 37:9; 1Cor 3:18; Eph 5:6; 2Thess 2:3) and also can deceive ourselves, (cf. 1Jn 1:8), a thing can at best remain secret before humans just for a little time. But nothing is a secret before God even at its conception, cf. Ps. 139:2b. He cannot be deceived, cf. Job 13:9.

The letter to the Hebrews reads, “...before him no creature is hidden, but all are naked and laid bare to the eyes of one with whom we must render account” (Heb 4:13). Psalm 139 throws more light on how naked we are before God; nothing can hide us and we can hide nothing from God.

God will judge and reward all according to their deeds, cf. Matt 16:27; 1Pt 1:17; Rev 22:12. The only way out is to live as one ought to because no one can cover his/her track before Him.

Bible Reading: Ps 139:1-24.

Thought for today: We are naked before God.

Let us pray: Lord, give us the grace to be always aware of our helplessness before you, and the strength to live as we should – Amen.

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Thursday, 15 October 2020

Memorial of Saint Teresa of Ávila, V.D., (15th October, 2020)

Homily (Reflection) for the Memorial of Saint Teresa of Ávila, V.D., (15th October, 2020) on the Gospel and the Memorial
Eph 1:1-10; Ps 97:1-6. (R. v.2); Lk 11:47-54.

Saint Teresa of Ávila (28th March, 1515 - 4th October, 1582) was born in Ávila, Spain. As a teenager, she cared only about boys, clothes, flirting, and rebelling. At the age of 16, she was sent to a convent because her father saw her as one out of control. She started to learn and practice mental prayer when she was installed a permanent member of the Carmelite Order. Everyone liked her and she liked to be liked. This however often led her to ignore God. Although wasn't sinning, but she was very attached to her friends until God asked her to stop. God then always came first in her life. At the age of 43, she resolved to found a new convent that would embrace a simple life of poverty and devoted to prayer. She was opposed from both religious and secular circles. However, soon she had postulants clamouring to get into her reformed convents. Her ideas about prayer swept not only through Spain but all of Europe. She died at the age of 67, beatified on 24th April, 1614 by Pope Paul V, and canonized on 12th March, 1622 by Pope Gregory XV. Teresa was declared a Doctor of the Church in 1970 for her writing and teaching on prayer. She is the founder of the Discalced Carmelites and the patron saint of Headache sufferers. Topic: Last in the list.

Jesus further denounced the lawyers for being witnesses and also approving the killing of the prophets by their ancestors. He also said in part, “Woe to you lawyers! For you have taken away the key of knowledge; you did not enter yourselves, and you hindered those who were entering.” The concluding verses read, “When he went outside, the scribes and the Pharisees began to be very hostile toward him and to cross-examine him about many things, lying in wait for him, to catch him in something he might say.”

Jesus’ outright condemnation of evil brought against Him extreme hostility. The same measure awaits anyone who follows His footsteps, cf. Matt 10:25. He warns, “Remember the word that I said to you, ‘A servant is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted me, they will persecute you; if they kept my word, they will keep yours also” (Jn 15:20).

Expect no worldly crown for condemning evil. Even one’s brothers and sisters of the same faith may also misunderstand him/her. The last in the list to expect from the world for following Jesus is her approval. However, “Blessed are you when men revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account” (Matt 5:11). We must always do the will of our Father in heaven, cf. Matt 7:21; Jn 5:30. He will grant justice to His people who cry to Him day and night without delay. However, it is important to keep faith, cf. Lk 18:7-8. God will wipe away the tears of His children, and the reproach of his people he will take away from all the earth, cf. Is 25:8.

Bible Reading: 2Cor 12:1-10.

Thought for today: God comforts His children.

Let us pray: Lord, we need your grace to always do your will – Amen.

Saint Teresa of Ávila – Pray for us.

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Wednesday, 14 October 2020

Wednesday of the Twenty-Eighth Week in Ordinary Time (II) (14th October, 2020)

Homily (Reflection) for Wednesday of the Twenty-Eighth Week in Ordinary Time (II) (14th October, 2020) on the Gospel
Gal 5:18-25; Ps 1:1-4.6. (R. cf. Jn 8:12); Lk 11:42-46.
Topic: Condemnation of evil.

Often we see justice being administered using different standards. The bible attests to the fact that God is neither partial nor takes bribe, cf. Deut 10:17; 2Chr 19:7; Acts 10:34; Rom 2:11; Gal 2:6; Eph 6:9. And in today’s gospel, Jesus maintained the same standard for both the Pharisees and the lawyers.

He further denounced the Pharisees in today’s gospel because although they tithe mint, rue, and herbs of all kinds, they neglected justice and love of God. These they ought to have practiced without neglecting others, cf. Mic 6:8. They loved “to have the seat of honour in the synagogues and to be greeted with respect in the marketplaces.” One of the lawyers intercepted, “Teacher, when you say these things, you insult us too.” Jesus replied him, “Woe also to you lawyers! For you load people with burdens hard to bear, and you yourselves do not lift a finger to ease them.”

God’s children are expected to be impartial as their Father, cf. Deut 16:19. Moses charged the tribal leaders, “You shall not be partial in judgment; you shall hear the small and the great alike; you shall not be afraid of the face of man, for the judgment is God's” (Deut 1:17; cf. Ex 23:3; Lev 19:15). And the book of Proverbs reads, “To show partiality is not good” (Prov 28:21; cf. Prov 24:23; Jas 2:9).

Despite all these, many including the leaders in the house of God maintain different standards today. This is not what God wants. We are to condemn evil wherever it is, be it in the small or in the great, a friend or a foe, and so on.

Bible Reading: Deut 10:12-22.

Thought for today: God shows no partiality (Rom 2:11).

Let us pray: Lord, give us the strength to avoid bribery and partiality – Amen.

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Be impartial+

Monday, 12 October 2020

Tuesday of the Twenty-Eighth Week in Ordinary Time (II) (13th October, 2020)

Homily (Reflection) for Tuesday of the Twenty-Eighth Week in Ordinary Time (II) (13th October, 2020) on the Gospel
Gal 5:1-6; Ps 118:41.43-45.47-48. (R. v.41); Lk 11:37-41.
Topic: Beyond materials.

Whenever we hear or speak of charity, minds often go to material things alone. And as a result, many have judged themselves incapable of being charitable. However, in today’s gospel, Jesus shows us another dimension.

A Pharisee was amazed seeing Jesus sat at the table in his house without first washing His hands according to the tradition. He said to him, “Now you Pharisees clean the outside of the cup and of the dish, but inside you are full of greed and wickedness.... So give for alms those things that are within; and see, everything will be clean for you.”

The within Jesus demands that we give for alms what it holds has also what defiles, cf. Matt 15:11, 18; Mk 7:20. Jesus is telling us that God demands much more than the material things. We ought to be charitable with all we have. Again, everybody has something to offer. Find out what you have and be aware that God demands you to be charitable with all.

Bible Reading: Matt 15:10-20.

Thought for today: God demands everything.

Let us pray: Lord, help us to be charitable with everything you blessed us with – Amen.

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Monday of the Twenty-Eighth Week in Ordinary Time (II) (12th October, 2020)

Homily (Reflection) for Monday of the Twenty-Eighth Week in Ordinary Time (II) (12th October, 2020) on the Gospel
Gal 4:22-24.26-27.31 – 5:1; Ps 112:1-7. (R. v.2); Lk 11:29-32.
Topic: Numerical increment.

Just imagine what the comment of a bishop, a priest or a pastor will be like when he/she observes that his/her congregation is increasing. Certainly, majority will not only fan themselves but it will also form the headline in a good number of publications that the church or ministry is booming.

However, in today’s gospel, as the crowds increased, Jesus said,

This generation is an evil generation; it asks for a sign, but no sign will be given to it except the sign of Jonah. For just as Jonah became a sign to the people of Nineveh, so the Son of Man will be to this generation.

Everybody, both those who occupy leadership positions in the church and the rest of the members must consider seriously what they search for in the house of God – God or something else? And all the leaders – the bishops, priests, General overseers, pastors, prophets, prophetesses, and so on must look beyond the number in the church and/or the ministry.

Numerical increment does not signify increment in faith. And without faith, we can never please God, cf. Heb 11:6. The major problem we have in the world today is not the number of Christians but the increasing lack of faith among Christians. If up to 10 percent of those who go by the name, Christians, are truly Christians, the world will not be what it is today. It would have been far a better place. There is urgent need for us to look for the increment in faith and not in number. Strong faith attracts greater number. We need to sincerely ask God to increase our faith.

Bible Reading: Jude 3:3-23.

Thought for today: Jesus is the Way not signs, cf. Jn 14:6.

Let us pray: Lord, assist us to look for you and not for your signs – Amen.

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Sunday, 11 October 2020

Twenty-Eighth Sunday of the Year (A) (11th October, 2020)

Homily (Reflection) for the Twenty-Eighth Sunday of the Year (A) (11th October, 2020) on the Gospel
Is 25:6-10; Ps 22. (R.v.6); Phil 4:12-14.19-20; Matt 22:1-14 or 22:1-10.

In this parable, who is to blame – the man who went to the banquet without a wedding robe (unprepared), cf. Matt 22:11-12 or the host who charged his servants “... invite everyone you find to the wedding banquet” (Matt 22:9) or the slaves who “gathered all whom they found, both good and bad” (Matt 22:10)? Note that the man without the wedding robe was one of the people the slaves met in the streets. Who knows where he was going to when the servants met him?

Topic: Wedding banquet and the robe.

This parable is about the kingdom of heaven. The invited guests had other things they considered more important than the kingdom of heaven (wedding banquet), cf. Matt 22:5). Could it be that the farm and the business could not be attended to if the invitations were honoured? Some of the invited guests could not even bear the sight of the slaves that were sent. Hence, “…the rest seized his slaves, mistreated them, and killed them” (Matt 22:6).

Considering the plight of the man found without the wedding robe, what could be the reason for the king’s reaction? Remember that the slaves gathered all whom they found on the street. But how come it was only one man who was not with the wedding robe?

It is important to understand the cultural background of the parable first. This parable was told by a Jew to the Jews and on the Jewish soil. The wedding robe in the Jewish culture can be likened to the robe the Lay Readers wear during liturgical functions. These readers are not expected to come with the robe but to put it on before reading. No matter where a reader is going to when he/she is met with a request to read will have any excuse for not putting it on. Hence, when the king queried the man, “Friend, how did you get in here without a wedding robe? … he was speechless” (Matt 22:12).

We are called to be ready at all times doing what we are called to. The time the Master will call for each and every one of us will not be an excuse.

Again, during every Eucharistic celebration just before the time for the reception of the Holy Communion, the president of the assembly with Sacred Specie raised says: “Behold the Lamb of God, behold him who takes away the sins of the world. Blessed are those called to the supper of the Lamb”. These are the true words of God through an angel, cf. Rev. 19:9. As these words are repeated everyday and everywhere the Eucharist is celebrated, what do you make out of it? Do you partake of the supper of the Lamb? If yes, how prepared are you? If no, remember these words of Jesus:

Very truly, I tell you, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his blood, you have no life in you. Those who eat my flesh and drink my blood have eternal life, and I will raise them up on the last day; for my flesh is true food and my blood is true drink (Jn 6: 53-55).

We ought to view the wedding garment not as an article of clothing. The church is not where we showcase the latest in town. We can partake of the wedding banquet of the Lamb only with the “wedding garment” on. Hence, Saint Paul insists,

Whoever, therefore, eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be answerable for the body and blood of the Lord. Examine yourselves, and only then eat of the bread and drink of the cup. For all who eat and drink without discerning the body, eat and drink judgement against themselves (1Cor 11: 27-29).

Although the invitation to the banquet is gratuitously given, one must make good out of it. Both those who do not attend and those who do not prepare for it will pay for their sins, cf. Matt 22:7,13. The instruction “Go therefore into the main streets, and invite everyone you find to the wedding banquet” implies that the call to repentance is for everybody. Yet the question “Friend, how did you get in here without a wedding robe?” implies that sinners must make something good out of the invitation. We are all sinners, cf. Rom 3:23. However God who calls us without any merit on our side expect us to come with the wedding garment. Are you ready? Remember, “… many are called, but few are chosen” (Matt 22:14). Do whatever possible to be part of that few.

Bible Reading: Mk 13:32-37; Lk 12:35-48; 14:15-24.

Thought for today

: What do you prefer to God and His call to holiness?

Let us pray: God, give me your grace to enable me always say yes to you with my words and my actions – Amen.

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Prepare now and be ready always

Friday, 9 October 2020

Saturday of the Twenty-Seventh Week in Ordinary Time (II) (10th October, 2020)

Homily (Reflection) for Saturday of the Twenty-Seventh Week in Ordinary Time (II) (10th October, 2020) on the Gospel (BVM on Saturday, Opt Mem)
Gal 3:22-29; Ps 104:2-7. (R. v. 8); Lk 11:27-28.
Topic: What really count.

One woman in today’s gospel raised her voice in the crowd while Jesus was speaking and said, “Blessed is the womb that bore you and the breasts that nursed you!” However, Jesus replied, “Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and obey it!”

The woman thought in the line of biological affinity. And like the woman, many hang on false hope of making heaven.

What counts as we read in the gospel is hearing and obeying the word of God. Obeying God’s word in question here is not a selective obedience. Hence, Saint James wrote, “...whoever keeps the whole law but fails in one point has become guilty of all of it” (Jas 2:10).

Dear friends in Christ, let us come back to all that God wants of us. Not to just hearing the word but also putting them into practice because “...the word of God is living and active” (Heb 4:12). It can neither be dead nor inactive in any person. Those who are hearers and not doers of the word of God deceive themselves, cf. Jas 1:22.

Bible Reading: Phil 2:12-18.

Thought for today: Word of God is for action.

Let us pray: Lord, give us the strength to put every word of yours into practice – Amen.

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Friday of the Twenty-Seventh Week in Ordinary Time (II) (09th October, 2020)

Homily (Reflection) for Friday of the Twenty-Seventh Week in Ordinary Time (II) (09th October, 2020) on the Gospel
Gal 3:7-14; Ps 110:1-6. (R. v.5); Lk 11:15-26.
Topic: The value of peace.

In today’s gospel, some people accused Jesus of casting out demons by Beelzebul, the ruler of the demons. And to test Him, others demanded a sign from heaven. Jesus said to them, “Every kingdom divided against itself becomes a desert, and house falls on house. If Satan also is divided against himself, how will his kingdom stand?” (Lk 11:17-18).

Jesus used this opportunity to highlight the importance of peace. Considering how much many communities especially Christian communities lack peace, it is important to reflect briefly on peace.

In the gospel of Saint John, Jesus said to His disciples, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you” (Jn 14:27). The peace in question is true peace. Hence, the Psalmist prayed, “Take me not off with the wicked, with those who are workers of evil, who speak peace with their neighbours, while mischief is in their hearts” (Ps 28:3).

True peace comes from God. He is a God of peace, cf. 1Cor 14:33. And for Saint Paul, Christ is our peace, cf. Eph 2:14. He preached peace to both those who were far off and to those who were near, cf. Eph 2:17. We read in the prophet Isaiah, “There is no peace... for the wicked” (Is 48:22; 57:21).

We conclude with Saint Paul, “Let us then pursue what makes for peace and for mutual upbuilding” (Rom 14:19). Unless we have true peace, we are condemned to destruction. The Psalmist warns, “Depart from evil, and do good; seek peace, and pursue it” (Ps 34:14).

Bible Reading: Rom 14:13–15:6.

Thought for today: Pursue peace with everyone (Heb 12:14).

Let us pray: ...may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times in all ways – Amen (2Thess 3:16).

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Peace be with you+

Thursday, 8 October 2020

Thursday of the Twenty-Seventh Week in Ordinary Time (II) (08th October, 2020)

Homily (Reflection) for Thursday of the Twenty-Seventh Week in Ordinary Time (II) (08th October, 2020) on the Gospel
Gal 3:1-5; Lk 1:69-75. (R. cf. v.68); Lk 11:5-13.
Topic: Stay put.

After teaching His disciples how to pray, Jesus told them that if they go to their friend’s house at midnight for loaves of bread for a friend who arrived late, even if he would not give them bread because of their friendship, he would do so because of their persistence. He continued,

So I say to you, Ask, and it will be given you; search, and you will find; knock, and the door will be opened for you. For everyone who asks receives, and everyone who searches finds, and for everyone who knocks, the door will be opened.

The emphasis in today’s gospel is on persistence. And one who knocks at his/her friend’s door persistently has no other place to turn to.

We have no other person or thing to run to other than God. Hence through the prophet He is telling us, “Turn to me and be saved, all the ends of the earth! For I am God, and there is no other” (Is 45:22). Nothing can be compared to Him, cf. Is 46:9.

Although many do pray, only few persist in their prayers. There is need for us to persist. In Luke chapter 18 verse 8, Jesus promised to save us quickly but He also queried: “...when the Son of man comes, will he find faith on earth?” So, stay put. The Lord is coming for you.

Bible Reading: Lk 18:1-8.

Thought for today: The Lord is coming.

Let us pray: Lord, give us strong faith to persevere in every condition – Amen.

You are free to share this reflection with others if you consider it worthy.

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May God bless you all+

Wednesday, 7 October 2020

Memorial of Our Lady of the Rosary, (07th October, 2020)

Homily (Reflection) for the Memorial of Our Lady of the Rosary, (07th October, 2020) on the Gospel and the Memorial
Gal 2:1-2.7-14; Ps 116. (R. Mk 16:15); Lk 11:1-4.

The feast of Our Lady of the Rosary is also known as Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary. It was instituted by Pope Saint Pius V. This Feast was formerly sometimes known as the Feast of Our Lady of Victory. It commemorates the decisive victory of the combined Christian fleet on 7th October, 1571 at the Battle of Lepanto, defeating an Ottoman fleet off western Greece. Pope Saint Pius V attributed the victory to the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary, who was invoked on the day of the battle through a campaign to pray the Rosary throughout Europe.

Topic: Lord, teach us to pray.

One of Jesus’ disciples requested after He had finished praying, “Lord, teach us to pray....” And Jesus taught them to pray, “Father, hallowed be your name. Your kingdom come. Give us each day our daily bread. And forgive us our sins, for we ourselves forgive everyone indebted to us. And do not bring us to the time of trial.”

This is the only prayer Jesus taught us. As a result, it stands as the model of every Christian prayer.

In this prayer, God is at the centre. Both the one who prays and every other creature depend on God. The Psalmist rightly wrote, “The eyes of all look to you, and you give them their food in due season” (Ps 145:15). We all are the people of his pasture, cf. Ps 95:7.

Today, the reverse is the case. Many have taken the position of God. Prayers said by many today are more likened to the prayer of the Pharisee in Luke chapter 18 verses 11-12. We know the result.

There is urgent need for us to acknowledge that we do not know how to pray as we ought. We must ask the Holy Spirit to help us in our weakness, cf. Rom 8:26. Every creature ought to praise our creator, cf. Rev 5:13.

Bible Reading: Lk 18:9-14.

Thought for today: We totally depend on God.

Let us pray: God, as the eyes of servants look to the hand of their master and the eyes of a maid to the hand of her mistress, so our eyes look to you till you have mercy upon us – Amen (cf. Ps 123:2). Our Lady of the Rosary – Pray for us.

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May God bless you all+

Tuesday, 6 October 2020

Tuesday of the Twenty-Seventh Week in Ordinary Time (II) (06th October, 2020)

Homily (Reflection) for Tuesday of the Twenty-Seventh Week in Ordinary Time (II) (06th October, 2020) on the Gospel
Gal 1:13-24; Ps 138:1-3.13-15. (R. v.24); Lk 10:38-42.
Topic: Mission to all.

Jesus visited Martha and Mary. While Mary sat at His feet listening to Him, Martha was busy with many tasks. Martha even pleaded with Jesus to intervene. But Jesus answered her in part, “Mary has chosen the better part, which will not be taken away from her.”

Many often see Jesus’ response as an outright condemnation of Martha. Martha was busy putting things in place to receive Jesus. Again, Jesus neither asked her to stop nor said that she was wrong. He only said, “Mary has chosen the better part....” It seems that Saint Paul’s teaching on celibacy followed this line. Although he praised celibacy, but he did not condemn marriage either, cf. 1Cor 7:38.

God wants us to be Christians wherever we are – in the church, in the kitchen, in the market, and so on. However, Saint Paul wrote, “...faith comes from what is heard, and what is heard comes by the preaching of Christ” (Rom 10:17). Mary’s part is to be seen in Martha’s. And Martha’s is useless if it is not informed by Mary’s. Just “...as the body apart from the spirit is dead, so faith apart from works is dead” (Jas 2:26).

Bible Reading: Ps 150:1-6.

Thought for today: You belong to God.

Let us pray: Lord, give us the grace to be your witnesses to all creatures – Amen.

You are free to share this reflection with others if you consider it worthy.

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May God bless you all+

Sunday, 4 October 2020

Monday of the Twenty-Seventh Week in Ordinary Time (II) (05th October, 2020)

Homily (Reflection) for Monday of the Twenty-Seventh Week in Ordinary Time (II) (05th October, 2020) on the Gospel
Gal 1:6-12; Ps 110:1-2.7-10. (R. v.5); Lk 10:25-37.
Topic: Known to God.

A lawyer to test Jesus asked Him in today’s gospel, “...what must I do to inherit eternal life?” He told him to love God and his neighbour as written in the law. To justify himself, he asked further, “And who is my neighbour?” Jesus told him a parable in which a man who travelled from Jerusalem to Jericho fell into the hands of robbers. They stripped him, beat him, and left him half dead and went away. A priest and a Levite saw him and passed by on the other side. It was a Samaritan who had pity on him, poured oil and wine on his wounds and bandaged them. He “put him on his animal, brought him to an inn, and took care of him.” He gave the innkeeper two denarii with the instruction to take care of the man and promised to pay whatever more he spent.

It is important to remind ourselves that the Jews and the Samaritans were enemies at the time of this parable. The action of this Samaritan can be likened to someone spending his/her resources on a professed enemy. But he must have seen beyond the man who fell into the hands of the robbers and was certain his good action was known to God who will repay everyone according to their deeds, cf. Is 59:18; Jer 25:14.

We ought to follow the example of the Samaritan in today’s gospel. In doing this, we must remember also that “What matters in life is not great deeds, but great love.” Following the example of the Samaritan does not require only great deeds but also little things.

Bible Reading: Jas 2:14-26.

Thought for today: Do good to everyone.

Let us pray: May God help us imitate the Good Samaritan – Amen.

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May God bless you all+