“Being a Christian who brightly shines forth – doing selfless acts and radiates Christ’s Presence!”

(Based on Gal 6:1-12 and Lk 10:25-37 – Monday of the 27th Week in Ordinary Time)

An important program was to be held in the Church Auditorium – the felicitation of all the members who had served for more than 10 years, on the occasion of the Decennial Jubilee Celebrations of the Parish.

The parish priest called for the auditorium in-charge to make a real-time check of the maintenance in the auditorium, “Since this is a major event, and it has been a long time that we have not had a program, I would like oversee the arrangements by myself”
(The auditorium had been unused for many months, due to the pandemic situation)

As they reached the auditorium, the priest asked all the lights to be put on, to make a check of the light system.

As the lights were put on…
… some of the lights were totally not working – blacked out completely
… a good number of them were blinking – on and off, on and off
… only a few were shining brightly – sparkling and dazzling

Seeing this, the priest made a comment: “Perhaps, this is how many Christians are today

Some don’t radiate Christ’s light at all – living selfish lives, thinking of themselves alone!
Some emit some light, occasionally – looking more to their comforts and situations!
And only a few brightly shine forth – doing selfless acts of making Christ’s Presence radiant!”

How about us?

Which category of light do we belong to?
… fully blacked out – in selfishness?
… occasionally glowing – as per situations and comfort levels?
… unconditionally shining forth – making a difference in the world around?

The Gospel of the Day is the narration of a very popular parable – the Parable of the Good Samaritan – that helps us reflect on these aspects of life.

The parables of Jesus leave a deep impression on the mind of its readers.

One such parable that makes a strong impact on the listeners and provides much food for thought is the one in the Gospel of the Day – the “Parable of the Good Samaritan”.

This is a parable familiar to most of us…
This is a parable, probably enacted by many of us…
This is a parable easily widely reflected by all of us…

We shall consider this parable of the Good Samaritan from the perspective of 3 Life-Philosophies that are reflected through 3 characters in the story…

1. The Philosophy of the Robber: “What you have is mine, and I will take it!”

In the story, we find that the man who was “going down from Jerusalem to Jericho, fell among the robbers, who stripped him and beat him, and departed, leaving him half dead” (Lk 10: 30)

The robbers had been probably waiting, in hiding, for an innocent traveller – for a potential booty of money and treasure.

We do not know their background…who they were, why were they engaged in this sort of dishonesty…

But one thing is known…. They had an understanding that “What you have is mine, and I will take it!”

Are we sometimes like these robbers…?

Stealing from the fruits of other’s labours and trampling upon their rights, in order to have a comfortable life
Subtly discrimination others – especially the poor, the helpless, the voiceless – and furnishing our life with luxuries
Passively or actively ignoring the rights that are due to others – and making our lives more easy and relaxed and fun

2. The Philosophy of the Priest and the Levite: “What is mine is mine, and I will keep it”
   In the story, we find that the Priest and the Levite “passed by on the opposite side” (Lk 10: 31-32)

These religious leaders were probably more occupied with the requirements and duties of their office.

We do not know what exactly were these preoccupations…
… why they couldn’t translate the stipulations of the law into actual practise of mercy and compassion.

But one thing is known… They had an understanding that “What is mine is mine, and I will keep it”

Are we sometimes like these Priests and Levites…?

Overly busy with our own works and duties that leaves us too occupied to even make an attempt to extend an extra helping hand
Falsely understood notions of religion and piety which limits itself to the safe zones of worship but does not dare to step out into the challenging waters of service and compassionate actions.
Fearful of going against set-patterns and rigid-systems and being indifferent and casual in being a doer of God’s Word

3. The Philosophy of the Samaritan: “What is mine is also yours, and I will share it”

In the story, we find that the Samaritan goes out of his way – “approached the victim, poured oil and wine over his wounds and bandaged him. Then he lifted him up on his own animal, took him to an inn and cared for him” (Lk 10: 34)

This Samaritan was probably aware that he was greatly risking his life and also that he was engaging in helping his enemy (Since Jews considered Samaritans as enemies)

We do not know the way in which he calmed all his basic instincts of wanting to see his enemy in pain or the natural tendency of “running away” from a situation of risk and “unwanted troubles”

But one thing is known… He had an understanding that “What is mine is also yours, and I will share it”

Can I always try to be like this Samaritan…?

Taking upon the risk of one’s own life and one’s comforts and be willing to help and reach out persons in distress – be it physically, mentally or spiritually.
Going against my natural instincts of harming enemies or being indifferent, and instead displaying a tender heart of mercy and compassion to those who have none to care for.
Being willing to make a sacrifice of what belongs to me – my time, my possessions, my plans – in order to help another experience that there is still a “lot of goodness” in the good world that the Good God has created

Jesus endorsed the Philosophy of the Samaritan and said, “Go, and do thou likewise.” (Luke 10:37)

The onus is now on each one of us…

Do we have a destructive philosophy of “What you have is mine, and I will take it!”…
… and remain in the shadows of wickedness, corruption and cheating?

Do we have the indifferent philosophy of “What is mine is mine, and I will keep it”…
… and get decayed in the stagnant waters of ritualism, being over-busy and woefully uncharitable?

Or can we have the Divine Philosophy of “What is mine is also yours, and I will share it”…
… and be radiant in the brightness of love, compassion and mercy…
… and thus imitate the life of the Ultimate Good Samaritan – Jesus, our Saviour and Master!

St Paul reminds us in his letter to the Galatians: “And let us not grow weary in well-doing, for in due season we shall reap, if we do not lose heart.

So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all men…” (Gal 6:9-10)

Let us honestly examine how is our Christian life…
… fully blacked out – in selfishness?
… occasionally glowing – as per situations and comfort levels?
… unconditionally shining forth – making a difference in the world around?

May the words of St Maria Faustina Kowalska, the great Saint who promoted the Devotion to the Divine Mercy of Jesus, whose feast we celebrate today, be an inspiration and a challenge to us:
“Every soul, and especially the soul of every religious, should reflect My mercy.

My Heart overflows with compassion and mercy for all.
The heart of My beloved must resemble Mine; from her heart must spring the fountain of My mercy for souls; otherwise I will not acknowledge her as Mine.”

God Bless! Live Jesus!

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Quotable-quote-a-day-with-St Francis de Sales (SFS) – “While we are busy and anxious to find
out what is the better…

… we unprofitably let slip the time for doing many good things!”

“Opening the door of our lives, to allow God’s Mercy and Goodness to come into us!”

(Based on Isa 5:1-7, Phil 4:6-9 and Mt 21:33-43 – 27th Sunday in Ordinary Time)

There is an interesting observation that can be made from the movie, “Passion of Christ” directed by Mel Gibson.

The movie tries to give a possible explanation as to why the Good Thief, hanging beside Jesus on the Cross, repented.

The Gospels remain silent though…

The Good Thief had been watching Jesus for a long time…

He was taken up by the serene patience and silent determination of Jesus.

With this build up, when he heard that Jesus, in the midst of his horrible agony, forgave His persecutors – – “Father, forgive them! They know not, what they are doing” – his heart opened up to God’s grace

That heroic, unimaginable act of forgiveness – after all that Jesus had suffered – powdered all his doubts about God’s Goodness, Wisdom, and Power.

He realized that God loves and forgives to the very end, without limits.

And so, without waiting or doubting or needlessly wrestling with his own unworthiness, he confidently entrusted his eternal salvation into Christ’s hands, “Remember me, Lord when you come into your Kingdom!”

It’s fascinating to note that in the film, Jesus actually says the line that converts the Good Thief (“Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do…”) twice: once from the cross, and once while they were nailing Him to the Cross.

When the director of the movie was asked, why he had Jesus saying it twice when the Gospels mention it only once, he answered, “I thought that Jesus was probably saying it… the whole time.”

Yes, God’s mercy and goodness is ready to come into our lives, always…
… We just have to open the door!

The Gospel of the Day – the parable of the tenants in the vineyard – is a strong invitation to repentance, turning back to God’s mercy and reviving our commitment to responsibilities!

This parable of the tenants in the Vineyard has its resonant tunes with another parable told centuries ago…
… the Parable of the Vineyard Song… found in Chapter 5 of the Book of Isaiah (First Reading)

Both these readings have many things strikingly similar… one among them being that…
… God never gives up on His people!
… God constantly informs, invites and inspires people towards His Love!

The Patience of God is amazing!
The Mercy of God is fathomless!
The Love of God is incomparable!

God never gives up, on His people!

In the Gospel, when the tenants failed to send the produce, the owner of the Vineyard (God Himself) sends umpteen opportunities to make room for repentance.

The Owner could have destroyed the tenants in the first instance…

The Owner could have forcibly got his produce after the first incident…

But the Owner has a kind and a merciful heart!

He forgives… and forgives… and forgives…
… inviting constantly for a renewal and revival!

Today, let us examine the vineyard of our lives…

Do I guard, nurture and cultivate the various gifts and graces that God has showered in the Vineyard of my Life?

Do I repent and repair my faults and actions, and seek to be a person who can produce worthy fruits, as per the graces showered on me?

Do I oppose, resist, denounce, detest or even terrorize people who work and spread the Gospel of God?

Let us also never forget that it’s not enough to receive mercy…
… we also have a duty and obligation, once we receive the mercy of the Lord

This duty is a life of holiness!
Yes, “the duty of receiving mercy, is living in holiness!”

Failing to respond to this duty of mercy puts also in danger of the judgment of the Lord, as we are told by Prophet Isaiah:
“What more was there to do for my vineyard, that I have not done in it? When I looked for it to yield grapes, why did it yield wild grapes?

And now I will tell you what I will do to my vineyard. I will remove its hedge, and it shall be devoured;
I will break down its wall, and it shall be trampled down.
I will make it a waste; it shall not be pruned or hoed, and briers and thorns shall grow up; I will also command the clouds that they rain no rain upon it!” (Is 5:4-6)

St Paul reminds us of the nobility of life – graced in mercy – that each of us are called to: “Have no anxiety about anything…
… but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.

And the peace of God, which passes all understanding, will keep your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus!” (Phil 4:6-7)

We are called to respond positively to the strong invitation by the Lord…
… to repentance
… to turn back to His mercy
… to revive our commitment to responsibilities!

The Lord is a fountain of mercy, and He awaits the return of each one of us.

The Good Thief on the Cross experienced this torrent of Love and Grace.
The Lord today calls us too…

Yes, God’s mercy and goodness is ready to come into our lives, always…
… We just have to open the door!

Shall we open the door?

God Bless! Live Jesus!

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Quotable-quote-a-day-with-St Francis de Sales (SFS) – “Our misery is the throne of God’s mercy!”

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“Realising that it’s only in the Lord, that ‘one gets a never-fading smile and to remain cheerful – always – be it sunny or rainy!’”

(Based on Job 42:1-3, 5-6, 12-17 and Lk 10:17-24 – Saturday of the 26th Week in Ordinary Time)

A lady was crossing a street, when a man walked up to her and said, “Excuse me, Mam… I want to thank you for something!”

Not having recognized him, the lady exclaimed: “But who are you? And what do you have to thank me for?”

“I used to be the security guard,” continued the man, “I would stand at the side gate of your apartment and often notice that whenever you passed by someone, you would give a big cheerful smile.

You don’t know much that smile made a difference to me!

I used to wonder, what makes you to remain cheerful – always – be it sunny or rainy!
And I realised… this happiness came from within!

Then one morning, I saw you walking with a Bible in your hands and going inside a nearby Church…
… and I told myself, ‘Perhaps, that’s where she gets her never-fading smile from!’

And so, that night, I got myself a Bible, and read for some time, and went to the Church the following morning.

Now I can smile too…
… and I want to thank you for helping me to discover God – the source of true joy and happiness!”

The man realised that it’s only in the Lord, that “one gets a never-fading smile and to remain cheerful – always – be it sunny or rainy!”

Have we discovered this “Joy in the Lord?”

The Gospel of the Day invites us to reflect on the theme of “Joy in the Lord”…
… with two instances of rejoicing:

The Disciples rejoicing after their successful mission experience
Jesus rejoicing in the Holy Spirit and thanking His Father for His Infinite Wisdom

One of the essential hallmarks of a Christian is a ‘Life of Joy’.

This was the experience of the Disciples, when they returned back from the mission.

They had enjoyed success in their ministry…
They had a sense of satisfaction in the works that they had done…

They realized that it was the Power of the Lord that enabled them to taste success and relish triumph.

So they rejoiced greatly, saying: “Lord, even the demons are subject to us because of Your Name” (Lk 10: 17)

Do we also rejoice, by seeing the hand of the Lord in the success and achievements of our lives….?
… knowing that whatever we achieve, is ultimately not just due to our hard-work and efforts; rather, was the result of our co-operation to the grace of God!
… recognizing that all our talents and opportunities are gifted by God to exhibit His Glory and Honour!

Our Blessed Lord, however also tells the Disciples to go beyond the peripheral joys and happiness in life; instead to rejoice in the Spirit.

St Luke would testify this in the words: “At that very moment, Jesus rejoiced in the Holy Spirit and said, ‘I give you praise, Father, Lord of heaven and earth…'” (Lk 10: 21)

This then is what we too are expected to imitate from the Lord: Rejoicing in the Spirit.

St Paul would beautifully explicate this, when he says, “Rejoice in the Lord always; I will say it again: Rejoice!” (Phil 4: 4)

Our life is to be an inspiring exhibition of the Joy in the Lord and Rejoicing in the Spirit.

Do we radiate joy…
… in our encounter with one another, and spread the cheer of life?
… even in the midst of hardships, knowing that we have a God who is deeply caring for us?
… thanking the Lord for His blessing, above all, for the gift of Himself in the Word and the Sacraments?

There is, without doubt, many reasons for us to be grumpy, to complain and to feel resentment in life.

But can we allow the Power of the Lord to enamour us, and realise that beyond all these, we have a reason to celebrate and to rejoice…
… knowing that ‘God is with us’, to ensure success in our journey of life, with our wholehearted co-operation
… knowing that God is the greatest reason to be happy and the treasure of life Who deserves every glory.

Job, of the Old Testament, allowed the Lord to enamour him with His Presence…
… and thus, even in the midst of immense suffering and hardship, humbling himself, Job could resign himself to the Power of the Lord and say:
“I know that You can do all things, and that no purpose of Yours can be thwarted.

Therefore I have uttered what I did not understand, things too wonderful for me, which I did not know.
I had heard of thee by the hearing of the ear, but now my eye sees thee; therefore I despise myself, and repent in dust and ashes!” (Job 2-6)

Let us hold fast to the Lord…
… through the faithful reading of the Word of God daily
… through a disciplined Prayer and Sacramental life
… through the intercession and inspiration of the Saints and Angels
… through living the virtues in our everyday affairs

On this first Saturday of the new month, let’s offer ourselves to the care and protection of our Blessed Mother and offer our concerns to Her Loving Immaculate Heart…
… and learn the secret of true joy from her: Treasuring God’s Word in the Heart and Doing God’s Will always!

Let us realise that it’s only in the Lord, that “one gets a never-fading smile and to remain cheerful – always – be it sunny or rainy!”

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Quotable-quote-a-day-with-St Francis de Sales (SFS) – “Live joyously among your occupations!”

“Holding on to our spiritual friend – the Guardian Angel – who walks with us, always, and in turn, be a true friend to one another!”

(Based on the Feast of the Guardian Angels)

The shadow once said to the body: “Who is a friend like me?

I follow you wherever you go.
In sunlight or in moonlight, I never forsake you.”

“True,” answered the Body, “you go with me in sunlight and in moonlight.

But where are you when neither sun nor moon shines upon me?”

This simple anecdote is a beautiful insight on true friendship.

As it is beautifully said, “a real friend is one who walks in, when the rest of the world walks out!”

Everyone love to have friends who make life more interesting and joyful by their presence.

The journey of life gets more easy and exciting with the presence of friends.

Our spiritual journey too follows this concept…

God, the author of life, in His all-powerful Wisdom, has blessed each of us with a friend.

A friend who accompanies us.
A friend who strengthens us.
A friend who helps us….

This friend is known as “The Guardian Angel”

This friend walks with us, in sunlight and moonlight…
… and even when neither sun nor moon shines!

Today, Holy Mother the Church celebrates the Feast of “The Guardian Angel“

The Church in her teachings affirms and assures that “from its beginning until death, human life is surrounded by watchful care and intercession of the angels. Beside each believer, stands an angel as protector and shepherd leading him to life.” (Catechism of the Catholic Church # 336)

From the first moments of our existence, the Guardian Angel has been with us…

At our birth, the Guardian Angel was elated at the dawn of a new life…
At our Baptism, the Guardian Angel was pleased to have us join God’s Family…
At our Confession, the Guardian Angel was delighted to have us back to God’s holiness…
At our Holy Communion, the Guardian Angel rejoiced in us, receiving the Loving Lord…
At our Confirmation, the Guardian Angel was joyful in us, being strengthened in the Spirit…
At our Marriage, Profession/Ordination, the Guardian Angel was happy with our way of life..
At our final moments, the Guardian Angel will be with us to strengthen and console us…

At every stage and step of our life, God has blessed us with this beautiful companion to “to guide and protect us through life and to lead us safely to our Eternal Home.“

The Lord wants each one of us to be walking in His presence and be safe from the snares of the Evil.

And for this purpose, He has blessed us with a Guardian Angel…

An Angel is a being, a person – one who has an intelligence and a free will.

An Angel thinks… but clearer than we do…
An Angel loves… but dearly than we do…

How does a Guardian Angel guard us?
By gentle inspirations…

In the hard moments of doubts and confusion…

The Guardian Angel gently inspires us with words of clarity and understanding.

In the dark situations of hopelessness and resignations…

The Guardian Angel gently inspires us with the light of God’s hope and strength.

In the narrow tunnels of losing faith and giving up…

The Guardian Angel gently inspires us with comforting words and counsels.

In the unfaithful times of going away from doing God’s will through sin…

The Guardian Angel gently inspires us with strong urges to come back to God’s ways.

In the daily moments of facing a choice of doing good or bad…

The Guardian Angel gently inspires us with showing what is more beneficial and valuable.

The Guardian Angels do not force us.
The Guardian Angels do respect our free wills.

But the Guardian Angels do long for us to always walk in God’s power and presence.

The Feast of the Guardian Angels is an opportunity for us to increase in our devotion and fondness for this “friend” whom God has blessed each one of us with.

The Feast of the Guardian Angels is also an opportunity for us to increase in our duty and responsibility of becoming a guardian, a friend and a guide to one another.

There are many whom we know who struggle with difficulties… problems…

faith-issues…financial difficulties…
mental problems… emotional breakdowns…

The Feast is a reminder to each one of us, to become a Guardian to all…

Jesus, through the Gospel of the day on this Feast day says… “See that YOU DO NOT DESPISE one of these little ones, for I say to you that their angels in heaven always look upon the face of my heavenly Father” (Mt 18:10).

“Not despising” someone not only includes avoiding putting down or humiliating or causing scandal to others etc…
… but on a positive sense, means to encourage, promote and strengthen one another.

A true friend is the one who really cares…when the whole world despises.

We have a responsibility to be a True Guardian to each other in our life on the earth.

God has blessed each one of us, with a true friend, in our Guardian Angel.

Let us grow in reverence and love for our dear spiritual friend.

Let us invoke the assistance of this friend in our works, while meeting people, while going to different places etc.

May we grow in our awareness, as St John Vianney would say, “When we are walking in the streets, let us fix our eyes on Our Lord bearing his Cross before us; on the Blessed Virgin who is looking at us; on our Guardian Angel who is by our side.“

Yes, let us hold on to our spiritual friend who walks with us, in sunlight and moonlight…
… and even when neither sun nor moon shines!

And in turn, be a true friend – a ‘guardian angel’ – to one another!

Happy Feast to our Dear Friend, the Guardian Angel…
… and to each one of us!

God Bless! Live Jesus!

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Quotable-quote-a-day-with-St Francis de Sales (SFS) – “Make yourself familiar with the Angels, and behold them frequently in spirit

Without being seen…
… they are present with you!”

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“Being inspired by St Therese of Child Jesus – Li’l Big Saint – to love the Big Big God of Love deeper and more passionately!”

(Based on the Feast of St Therese of Child Jesus – Little Flower)

“Yes, I have discovered my vocation! In the heart of the Church, I will be love”

• From the “Story of a Soul” – the Autobiography of the Little Flower

These words of great joy and exhilaration exhibit the essence of a Grand Discovery.

A Young Person had discovered her grand vocation!

The Church had discovered a grand saint!

Grand was the life that was lived.

Grand still more were the graces that followed…

A grand saint enshrined in a quiet life, but adorned with much love and affection…

A saint who inspires many…
A saint who is loved by many…
A saint who induces much joy…
… St Therese of Child Jesus – popularly known as the Little Flower of Liseux.

We live in an age that relishes and appreciates insights related to growth, maturity, accountability and responsibility.

There is a love to hear “high” theology….
There is a craze to talk “systematic” thoughts…
There is an interest to discuss “complex” spiritualities..

Not that these are bad or not to be promoted…
… but these “mature” talks ought not to take one away from the basic aim of true spirituality: Love God and Loving Neighbour!

There is a tendency that these “advanced” talks get jammed with only peripheral talks…
… and fail to translate into true action & deeds.

It is here, that our Little Saint of the Day invites us to find a new freshness and sparkle in Spirituality.

She is the Little Saint who dared to love the Big God!
She is the Big Saint who presents to us the Little Way!

This Little Way of the Big Li’l Saint resonates with the Gospel of the Day (Lk 10:17-24) when Jesus invites and declares that…
….”I give You praise, Father, Lord of heaven and earth… you have revealed them to the childlike” (Lk 10: 21a)’

For a child, everything is big!

The toys that one plays…
The food that one eats…
The houses that one sees…

Even the ones who take care…
… and especially, the ones closes to the child… parents in particular….are very big too!

They mean everything to the child.
They signify the ultimate for the Child.

This is the child-likeness to which ‘The Little Flower’ grew.

Her child-likeness had God as the Centre of her world…

God meant everything for this Little Saint.
God signified the ultimate for this Little Saint!

She saw herself as ‘a child’ but energized by God who directed her journey in faith.

Her child-likeness does not promote childishness or immaturity or passivity.

Her child-likeness, instead encourages deeper trust and maturity and enthusiasm.

This spirituality of the Little Way sounds too simple….and too little..

But in fact and in practice, is a highly challenging one!

This is the spirituality of ‘child-likeness’: To have at the Centre and as the Ultimate, the One who can provide everything – God!

Is God the centre of my world…
… when I get drunk with a sinful and immoral life?
… when I get over dependent on my material riches?
… when I bank upon my own wisdom in my works?
… when I insist on doing my will, over the Will of God?

Little Therese of Child Jesus, the Little Saint is also the Big Saint of Love!

After a period of great inner trial and turmoil, she discovered her vocation to be love!

All her actions were laced with love.
All her words were filled with love.

The little lover of God invites us…
… to adorn all our words with love
… to embrace all our actions with love
… to beautify all our thoughts with love…

It could be…
… speaking with friends
… interacting with fellow workers
… discussing some business matters
… enjoying with family members..

It could be…
… doing household works
… handling massive finances
… studying various subjects
… performing some spiritual activities

It could be…
… thinking some philosophical views
… reflecting about some people
… considering about some situations
… imagining some circumstances
… dreaming some visions

Whatever… whatever!
Whatever be our words… or actions… or thoughts… let them be embellished in LOVE!

The Little Way… Sounds simple, but not so simple in practice, right?

Yet, there is much simplicity…
… ‘cos God remains at the centre of every effort and attempt!

There is much sentimentality, no doubt.

There is much simplicity, no doubt.

But with or without all those feelings, the Little Way simply tells us to have God at the Centre of Everything… and do all in Love!

Love demands a fidelity in the countless mundane ‘little’ things of daily life

The Little Way doesn’t eliminate heroism, rather it’s brought within the reach of the poor.

The rains of love showers every aspect of ordinary everyday life.

The Little Flower dares to throw “petals” at the Loving Lord…

These petals are even considered “worthless petals” by the world – a little sacrifice, a gentle smile, a kind word, an appreciative action!

Sometimes, these “worthless petals” are nothing more than a faithful effort.

But this fact of “having tried”, a good will “to do good”…
… all these petals please the Lord!

Let us join the Little Saint to tread the Little Way.

She promised to “shower roses” on the way to those who dare…

As a child, let us be inspired by this Li’l Big Saint to love the Big Big God of Love deeper and more passionately!

As we thank the Lord for the gift of all the blessings in the month of September, let us offer the new month of October into His Safe and Caring Hands…
… especially seeking the help of our Blessed Mother by praying the Rosary daily, in this Month of the Rosary – October!

Let us give heed to the words of the Little Flower – St Therese of Child Jesus:
“Holiness consists simply in doing God’s will, and being just what God wants us to be.”

May we always “live Love to give Love!”

May we always “live Jesus to give Jesus!”

Happy Feast of the Beautiful Little Flower!

God Bless! Live Jesus!

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Quotable-quote-a-day-with-St Francis de Sales (SFS) – “The truly loving heart loves God’s good pleasure
not in consolations only…

… but also in afflictions!”

“Understanding that ‘nothing can shake a missionary who is firmly grounded on Jesus, the Rock and has eyes gazed on the Jesus, the Crucified,’ and thus always crying out, ‘I want missions!’”

(Based on Job 9:1-12, 14-16 and Lk 9:57-62: Wednesday of the 26th Week in Ordinary Time – Feast of St Jerome)

The year 1821.
The Parish of Le Chatelard, in the Archdiocese of Chambery.

Two fervent and austere priests, spent a week in praying, preaching and inviting people for a Mission Service.

But the parishioners remained indifferent.
There was an air of unwelcome apathy.

The two priests had to make a choice: Of either continuing preaching or of “shaking off the dust!”

“When the world says, “Give up”, hope whispers, ‘Try it one more time!’”

The priests – who were hopeful, zealous and committed – set out, in imitation of Jesus, their Master, to the foot of the mountains to pray for the conversion of people.

“They have gone to pray & fast for your conversion” was the reply the curious parishioners received on enquiry of their whereabouts.

Grace worked…

Intercession proved powerful!

The two saintly priests were called back by the people…
… and the mission in the Parish resumed with much deep fervour and enthusiasm!

One of the two missionaries was Fr Peter Marie Mermier
(the other was his missions companion, Fr Joseph Favre)

Fr Peter Marie Mermier is the founder of the Congregation of the Missionaries of St Francis de Sales (MSFS)…
… known as the Fransalians!

This daring founder – a dynamic missionary – had many incidents in his life, which made him to experience the power and presence of the Spirit in the missions.

As it is said, “Problems love to haunt missionaries, but Providence lures them to depend on Him, for healing!”

When the early companions in the Congregation began to leave him – though in much agony – with an unshakeable hope and resolve, Fr Mermier declared: “…I will remain all alone. But my resolution is unshakeable as also my desires.

I want missions!”

Yes, nothing can shake a Missionary who is firmly grounded on Jesus, the Rock and has eyes gazed on the Jesus, the Crucified!

Today – on the Founder’s Day of the Congregation of the Missionaries of St Francis de Sales (MSFS) – the death anniversary of the Venerable Servant of God, Fr Peter Marie Mermier (Sep 30, 1862)…
… we are called by the Lord to follow Him more closely and to introspect our motivations and motives in being a Christian!

The Gospel passage (Lk 9:57-62) presents three people who seek to follow the Lord.

These three, present before us…
… three aspects of hurdles/barriers in following the Lord.

These are:

1. Comforts
2. Convenience
3. Distractions
4. A “comfortable style” of following the Lord

The first person comes up to Jesus and says: “I will follow you wherever you go” (Lk 9: 57)

But Jesus reminds him, “Foxes have holes and birds of the sky have nests, but the Son of Man has no place to rest His Head” (Lk 9: 58a)

This man had probably heard or seen the Lord…
… as a mighty miracle-worker
… as a popular preacher
… as a laudable leader

These were “comforts” that would be assured in following Jesus

And so perhaps, the man chose this “comfortable style of following the Lord!”

But the Lord prohibits from seeking Him for the sake of comforts alone!

2. A “convenient style” of following the Lord

The second person is asked by the Lord to “Follow” Him (Lk 9: 59b)

But he replies, “Let me first go and bury my father” (Lk 9: 59b)

“Bury my father” was a Jewish (Arabic) way of saying….
… one must stay in one’s house till the death of the father and settle the inheritance of the property.

The man was yielding into to conveniences in following the Lord…
… “when I am convenient in my family, I will follow You”
… “when I am convenient in my personal life, I will follow You”

3. A “distractive style” of following the Lord

The third person said, “I will follow you Lord, but first let me say farewell to my home” (Lk 9:61)

But Jesus said, “No one who sets a hand to the plough and looks to what is left behind, is fit for the Kingdom of God” (Lk 9: 62)

This person had the goodwill to follow Jesus…
… but was distracted in his motivation.

We need to introspect our motivations and motives in being a Christian…

Is my following of the Lord of a “comfortable style”
… looking for only the comforts of prosperity and material riches…?
… being close to the Lord only in times of comfort…?

Is my following of the Lord of a “convenient style”
… seeking to be with the Lord only when I “feel like”
… adjusting my relationship with God as per my needs and conveniences

Is my following of the Lord of a “distractive style”
… easily straying away from the path with worldly attractions
… failing to do the Will of God owing to distractive habits and tendencies

The Lord longs to have us following Him…
… more sincerely and more passionately!

Martin Luther King Jr. said:
“Consider that people are like tea bags.
They don’t know their own strength until they get into hot water”

It is essential, therefore that we “burn” our comforts and personal wishes in the fire of God’s blazing fiery Love…
… so that we can be better imitators of Him, Who demands that we be zealous in our journey towards perfection!

Today we specially seek the intercession of St Jerome
(St Jerome who was very well-versed in Scripture, is best known for his translation of the Bible into Latin – the translation that became known as the Vulgate – and his commentaries on the Scriptures.

“Ignorance of Scripture is ignorance of Christ” are the famous words of exhortation of St Jerome, the doctor of the Church)

May his words, “Good, better, best. Never let it rest. ‘Til your good is better and your better is best”
… be an inspiration for all of us

Like Fr Peter Marie Mermier, may we understand, that “nothing can shake a missionary who is firmly grounded on Jesus, the Rock and has eyes gazed on the Jesus, the Crucified” and always cry out, “I want missions!”

Happy Founder’s Day to all the Fransalians – The Missionaries of St Francis de Sales (MSFS)

God Bless! Live Jesus!

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Quotable-quote-a-day-with-St Francis de Sales (SFS) – “There is nothing small in the service of God!

The world is a great stage…

… where God displays his many wonders!”

“Growing in love for our heavenly friends – St Michael, St Gabriel and St Raphael – and orienting our lives more towards heaven!”

(Based on the Feast of St Michael, St Gabriel, St Raphael – Archangels)

An elderly parish priest was walking in the portico of the Church, when he came across a couple of young boys.

They were standing in front of the mighty statue of St Michael.

As they stood admiring the majestic figure, the younger one said to his elder brother, “Hey look, what a might sword!

This is the sword, which Mummy told, with which this great saint would thrust into the devil isn’t it?”

The elder one nodded and exclaimed, “Yeah! And see how triumphantly he crushes the head of Satan! Wow!”

Seeing their excitement, the priest approached them and commended, “How wonderful to see these little boys who are well taught in the teachings of the Church! Blessed is this family!”

The story goes on to say that the priest took them in the Church and taught them the beautiful prayer to St Michael (which he asked them to recite after the Holy Mass):
“St. Michael the Archangel, Defend us in this day of battle!
Be our safeguard against the wickedness and snares of the devil.

May God rebuke him we humbly pray,
And do Thou, O Prince of the Heavenly Host,
By the Power of God, Cast into hell, Satan and all the evil spirits
Who prowl about the world seeking the ruin of souls, Amen!”

Today, the Feast of the Archangels – St Michael, St Gabriel, St Raphael- is a reminder by the Church to learn more about our Catholic Faith and to grow in celebrating and living this faith, in our daily living.

Archangels are one of the nine choirs of angels. (cf. Eph 1:21, Col 1:16)

In ascending order, the choirs or classes are 1) Angels, 2) Archangels, 3) Principalities, 4) Powers, 5) Virtues, 6) Dominations, 7) Thrones, 8) Cherubim, and 9) Seraphim.

The Feast of the Three Archangels – St Michael, St Gabriel and St Raphael is an opportunity to learn more about them and to grow in deeper devotion and fondness for them.

1. St. Michael
   The name of the archangel Michael means, in Hebrew, “Who is like unto God?”

St Michael is known as “the prince of the heavenly host.”

He is usually pictured as a strong warrior, dressed in armour, crushing the head of Satan.
He is also known as the “Patron Saint of the Sacrament of the Holy Eucharist”

St Michael makes an appearance in the Bible on four occasions:

In Dan 10:13 and in Dan 12:1, he appears as the special guardian of the people of Israel.
In Jude 9, he appears in a dispute with the Devil.
In Rev 12:7-9, he fights against Satan and his evil forces.

What does St Michael teach us?
… St Michael teaches us to depend on the power of God in our battle against the forces of Satan
… St Michael teaches us to guard ourselves against the disguises and snares of evil forces.
… St Michael teaches us to become a guard and protector of our fellow brothers and sisters.

2. St Gabriel
   The name of the archangel Gabriel means, in Hebrew, “God is my strength”

St Gabriel is known as a “messenger of God”

He is usually pictured announcing something and sometimes with a lily or a sceptre.
He is also known as the “Patron Saint of the Sacrament of Baptism”

St Gabriel makes an appearance three times in the Bible:

In Dan 8:15–26 and 9:21–27, he appears to Daniel to explain his visions
In Lk 1:11-38, he appears to Zechariah and Mary to deliver the good news from God

What does St Gabriel teach us?
… St Gabriel invites us to listen to God’s voice and inspirations through various sources.
… St Gabriel invites us to find courage in situations of fear, by trusting in God’s Providence.
… St Gabriel invites us to be open to surprises and wonders the Lord works in our lives.

3. St Raphael
   The name of the archangel Raphael means, in Hebrew, “God has healed?”

St Raphael is known as “a wonderful helper and fellow traveller”

He is usually pictured walking with a young boy, sometimes carrying a staff.
He is also known as the “Patron Saint of the Sacrament of Reconciliation”

St Raphael makes many appearance in the Book of Tobit in the Bible:

St Raphael appears disguised in human form as the travelling companion of Tobias, the son of Tobit.

What does St Raphael teach us?
… St Raphael inspires us to discover God as the healing balm in our afflictions and hardships.
… St Raphael inspires us to walk boldly with God in all the terrains and valleys and paths of life.
… St Raphael inspires us to trust in God in seemingly hopeless and impossible hurdles of life.

Modern trends often seek to downplay some of the traditional Catholic beliefs…
… the belief in the Angels, being one of them, perhaps!

But, this Feast is a great reminder for us to be reminded that the Catholic Teachings (like the teaching on Angels) are…
… Scripturally rooted
… Traditionally verified
… Logically reasonable
… and spiritually nourishing!

May this Feast of the three Archangels – St Michael, St Gabriel and St Raphael – help us to…
… grow in our love for our heavenly friends…

And orient our lives more towards heaven!

The Lord wants us to grow in holiness.
The Lord wants us to be protected in His care.
The Lord wants to be fearless in being His beloved Child.

May the Archangels help us in this our journey of life.

Happy Feast of the Heavenly Protectors!

God Bless! Live Jesus!

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Quotable-quote-a-day-with-St Francis de Sales (SFS) – “Consider the beauty and perfection of the countless inhabitants of that blessed country – the millions and millions of angels, Cherubim and Seraphim; the glorious company of Apostles, martyrs, confessors, virgins, and saints.

They rejoice with a perpetual joy, they share a bliss unspeakable, and unchangeable delights.

“Being privileged to be graced with the gift of being ‘like children’ and thus being able to firmly trust and relax in the arms of our Caring and Loving Heavenly Father and live a life of humility and trust!”

(Based on Job 1:6-22 and Lk 9:46-50 – Monday of the 26th Week in Ordinary Time)

A little boy once came to his Daddy, one night.
He confessed a mistake that he had done during the course of the day.

Then kneeling at Daddy’s feet, the child, with hands folded, prayed with tears:
“Dear God, make me a man – like Daddy – wise and strong.
I know You can!”

This innocent gesture touched the father very much.

He had a profound realisation of his deep limitations and the child’s high expectations

Then when the child had slept, the father knelt beside his bed.

Confessing his sins, and praying with a low-bowed head, made this prayer:
“O God, make me a child – like my sweet child here – pure, guileless, trusting in You with a faith sincere.
I know You can!”

We all grow up in life – physically, socially, psychologically etc…

But sometimes this “growing up” fails to preserve the “growth” that is already witnessed in little children – openness, sincerity, trust and spontaneity.

Can we dare, as adults, to “grow” into being a Child?

The Gospel of the Day is an elegant presentation by Jesus on the “necessary attitude” that is required for a valid entry into the Kingdom of Heaven: a child-like nature.

Jesus says, “Whoever welcomes this child in my name welcomes me, and whoever welcomes me welcomes the one who sent me; for the least among all of you is the greatest.” (Lk 9: 47)

In the Gospel of Mathew, we read, “Truly I say to you, unless you turn and become like little children, you will not enter the Kingdom of Heaven” (Mt 18: 3)

One of the grave dangers in the process of “growing- up” is the tendency to lose our “natural child-like” traits.

A child is someone who is born with many inherent qualities.

But in the process of “becoming an adult”, we abandon many of those.

This ‘abandonment’ could be because…
… of the upbringing in the society or the culture we live
… or the various experiences that we go through as we grow up

As a child, we would be free to express our emotions
… but as we grow up, we tend to hold them up all within (only to burst out one day!)

As a child, we would trust and depend easily on those who care for us
.. but as we grow up, we become fearful or disbelieving towards those same persons

As a child, we would be eased to live in the present moment, enjoying and relaxing
… but as we grow up, we fall into the trap of the past and cringed with the fear of the future.

The Lord invites us to have a “renewal of our minds” and to retrieve back the ‘lost’ child-like faith and trust.

It takes courage and dare to make efforts to let go of our “matured egoistic” tendencies in order to depend more on our Heavenly Father.

The process usually is encountered by resistance…

Why should I depend on someone…
… I am mature enough to think for myself

Why should I become humble…
… I have my own desires to be satisfied to

These could be some of the thought-patterns that one stumbles into, in giving heed to the call of the Lord to “be like a child”.

Our Lord Himself is the greatest model and example in learning to have a “child-like” faith…

St Paul tells in his letter to the Philippians, ” … though He was in the form of God, did not regard equality with God, a thing to be grasped.

Rather, He emptied Himself, taking the form of a slave, becoming obedient to death, even death on a cross” (Phil 2: 6-8)

A child-like faith also prompts to place one’s trust totally in the Lord, knowing that He is the Source and End of all…
… as beautifully displayed by Job, during his great ordeal, when he exclaimed: “Naked I came from my mother’s womb, and naked shall I return;

The Lord gave, and the Lord has taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord.” (Job 1:21)

May we be privileged to be graced with the gift of being “like children” and thus be able to firmly trust and relax in the arms of our Caring and Loving Heavenly Father and live a life of humility and trust!

God Bless! Live Jesus!

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Quotable-quote-a-day-with-St Francis de Sales (SFS) – “Do as little children do, who with one hand
cling to their father…

… and with the other gather blackberries along the hedges.”

“Discovering love for the Lord and being willing to go beyond difficulties, in order to strengthen our relationship with the Lord and obeying His Will always!”

(Based on Ezek 18: 25-28, Phil 2:1-11 and Mt 21: 28-32 – 26th Sunday in Ordinary Time)

A man who was engaged, took his fiancé for dinner on her birthday.

When they sat down, he laid an elaborate box on the table – her birthday gift.

All the while they were eating dinner, she just kept thinking about this box – because it was a big box – and she wanted to know what was inside.

She could hardly eat.

The waiting to open the gift was disturbing her…
… but her boyfriend told her to open the gift, after dinner.

All she could think about was what was in the box. Finally, when dinner was over, she asked:
“Can I open the box now?”

“Yeah, you can!”

She opened the box…
… and pulled out a pillow.

“Oh, wow, I mean, this is a nice pillow…
… but it’s a pillow.”

She turned the pillow over, thinking that something was taped to the back.

There was nothing.

“Well, thank you!”

It was obvious she was disappointed that she got a pillow.

Her boyfriend, however, got up, took the pillow from her…
… and laid the pillow on the floor.

He got down on one knee, took her by the hand, and said, “Will you love me for life?”

The girl now totally gave up the pillow!

The pillow was no longer so important for her
Instead.. the one who gave her the pillow, now became much more important!

Love for a person trifles every peripheral need and discomforts!

When you discover love for a person, you begin to go beyond difficulties…
… and seek to strengthen your relationship with the person.

The Gospel of the Day is a beautiful story of “willingness to make suitable changes, and giving importance to the person, in order to display one’s love…
… rather than being restricted with peripheral and external promises, without sincerity!”

The Gospel presents to us…
… the story of a son who – though initially seemed reluctant – but finally would overcome difficulties, and follow the words of his father
… and contrasted by his brother who fails to keep up his word!

The passage begins with the first son being asked by the father: “Son, go and work in the vineyard today.” (Mt 21:28)

And the son replying initially in the negative; but later repenting: “And he answered, ‘I will not’; but afterward he repented and went” (Mt 21:29)

This is contrasted by the other son – who was given the same order – and replied in the positive initially, but later would retract from his words

“And he went to the second and said the same; and he answered, ‘I go, sir,’ but did not go.” (Mt 21:30)

These two sons could represent our own attitudes to the Divine Will:

1. Failure to understand initially but later repenting and doing what God wants
2. An initial fervour to do all what God wants, but failure to sustain in this pursuit

The first son may have had his own reasons to refuse the will of his father initially…

Maybe…
… he was lazy
… he had some other commitments
… he did not give much importance to his father’s words
… he was too proud and least bothered about what other’s wanted including his father

The reasons could be anything

But the parable tells, that he had a realization…
… and that would make him do what his father wanted!

The Gospel explains this with a phrase: “… but afterward, he repented.”

Maybe, we too need to have this “Repenting Experience” in our lives in order to follow the Will of our Heavenly Father

In instances, when we feel lazy in life…
… “to repent” and to push ourselves with the Graces offered by God

In times, when we have other commitments other than the Kingdom of God…
… “to repent” and to bring back our first priority to do what God wants in our life

In situations, when we don’t give much importance to the ways of God…
… “to repent” and to remain docile and open to the Power and Providence of God in life

In moments, when our pride overwhelms us, and we become too cosy and careless…
… “to repent” and to bow down before the Awesome and Majestic Presence of God

God reminds us through Prophet Ezekiel that all those who turn away from sin, will surely be blessed…
“Again, when a wicked man turns away from the wickedness he has committed and does what is lawful and right, he shall save his life.

Because he considered and turned away from all the transgressions which he had committed, he shall surely live, he shall not die!” (Ezek 18:27-28)

It is possible that sometimes we get so occupied with the trifles and peripherals of life…
… that we fail to understand that “growing in relationship with our Lord” is the most important task of our life!

We tend to get more attracted to the “big box that allures us” …
… than to spend time with the Lord…understand His Mind deeper and to love Him more!

The Lord today invites us through this parable of the two sons, to become people…
… who not only pledge our words but our life also to Him!
… who not only make an external profession but commit with an inner passion for the Kingdom!

Yes, let us understand that “Love for a person trifles every peripheral need and discomforts!”

When you discover love for a person, you begin to go beyond difficulties and seek to strengthen your relationship with the person.

When we love the Lord, we also ought to be willing to make suitable changes, and give importance to His Will…
… rather than being restricted with peripheral and external promises, without sincerity!

The Lord, Who loves all of us immensely, displayed His tremendous affection for us by lowering Himself and becoming a Man – like us – and giving His Life for love of us:
“… though He was in the form of God, did not count equality with God, a thing to be grasped, but emptied Himself, taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men.

And being found in human form, He humbled Himself and became obedient unto death, even death on a Cross!” (Phil 2:6-8)

The Lord, Who humbled Himself – as a boy kneeling on a pillow, desiring for love – asks us the question:
“Will you love me for life?”

What is our answer?

God Bless! Live Jesus!

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Quotable-quote-a-day-with-St Francis de Sales (SFS) – “Those who wish to straighten a young tree,
not only to bring it to the direction in which they wish it to grow…

… but even bend it somewhat beyond, so that it will not return to its former direction!”

“Asking the Grace to remain ever faithful to the Lord and to be loyal to His Love and His Kingdom!”

(Based on Eccles 11:9-12:8 and Lk 9:43-45 – Saturday of the 25th Week in Ordinary Time)

“Julius Caesar” is a tragedy written by William Shakespeare.

It is one of several plays written by Shakespeare based on true events from Roman history.

The life of Julius Caesar engrossingly proceeds with placing a great trust in his best friend Brutus.

Brutus, though his closest and most trusted friend, was albeit a misled man.

Therefore, among the conspirators who finally assassinated the Roman leader on March 15, 44 was Brutus as well.

Caesar had not only trusted him, but also favoured Brutus as his own son.

The Roman history tells that Caesar had first resisted the onslaught of his assassins.

But when he saw his beloved Brutus among them, with his dagger draw, the Roman Emperor ceased to struggle and withdraw every attempt of resistance.

He pulled the top part of his robe over the face and asked the infamous question, “Et tu, Brute?”

“You too, Brutus?”
… A question which cuts across the marrows of the bones and the pierces the depths of the heart, to express disgust and contempt of the deadly human vice of betrayal!
… A question which cuts across civilizations and generations, to show forth the abhorrence and the detestation of the wicked trait of disloyalty!

The Gospel of the Day presents a mighty warning by Jesus on the danger of we becoming betrayers to Him and His Love!

Jesus tells His disciples, “Let these words sink into your ears: The Son of Man is going to be betrayed into human hands!” (Lk 9: 44)

Jesus gives a forewarning to His disciples on the sword of betrayal that would be his painful lot.

This betrayal had to be faced on different levels..
… an act of betrayal through a kiss by Judas Iscariot
… acts of denial by Peter, His close disciple
… acts of abandonment by His other disciples
… acts of rejection by the chief priests and elders
… acts of passivity by the people for whom He had served

Today our Lord poses the same question: Am I betraying Him in my acts and deeds?

Is the Lord, calling us by name, asking us, “Et tu, ? “You too, _ ?”

Do I betray the Lord by failing to avoid occasions of sin and constantly moving away from doing His Will?

Do I betray the Lord with my words of unpleasantness, judgmental nature and destructively critical?

Do I betray the Lord by being unkind, unforgiving and harbouring grudge by my actions?

Do I betray the Lord by causing harm to others and being insincere in my works?

Let us we ask the grace to remain ever faithful to the Lord and be loyal to His Love and His Kingdom.

Like St Philip Neri, may we too pray:
“Watch me, O Lord, this day; for, abandoned to myself, I shall surely betray thee.”

Today we celebrate the Feast of St Cosmas and St Damien, the twin-saints.

Strictly observing the command of the Lord: “Freely have you received, freely in turn give” (Mt. 10: 8), they came to be known as “anargyroi” – the silverless
They practised medicine and surgery without a fee!
Their witness of selfless charity and generosity of spirit converted many to the Catholic Faith.

May we seek their intercession and be inspired by them, to constantly be on the watch…
… and be ever loyal to His Love and His Kingdom!

God Bless! Live Jesus!

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Quotable-quote-a-day-with-St Francis de Sales (SFS) – “Let your speech be gentle, frank, sincere, straightforward, candid…

… and faithful!”