“With Mother Mary, seeking to joyfully proclaim our BIG GOD through the Magnificat – ‘My soul proclaims the glory of the Lord. My spirit rejoices in God my Saviour’”

(Based on 1 Sam 1:24-28 and Lk 1:46-56 – Wednesday of the 4th Week in Advent)

One of the things that, some of us did as children, as we grew up, was to measure our height against a wall.

We know how this method works…

We stand next to a wall and make a pencil mark of our height.

A few weeks or months later, we come back to this place and measure how much we have grown.

Why did we do this?

In order to see how much we have grown…

In order to check how much more we would wish to grow…

In order to know, “How big have we become!”

Today, we need to make a similar “height check” with respect to our God.

“How big is God in my life?”

The way we answer this question will determine how we live as a Christian.

The Gospel of the Day is a great expression of how Mother Mary considered the “height” of God in Her life.

She realized the mighty presence of the Lord in Her lowly life.
She understood the huge favour of the Lord bestowed in Her humble nature.

And so, with much acclaim and exclamation, Mary cries out, “My soul proclaims the glory of the Lord. My spirit rejoices in God my Saviour” (Lk 1: 46-47)

The Angel Gabriel had announced to Mary that she been chosen to be the Mother of the Son of God.

The angel also declared that her cousin, Elizabeth had conceived in her old age.

In Her deep concern, humility and spirit of service, Mary makes a visit to Elizabeth.

Elizabeth called Mary as Blessed ‘for believing what was spoken to her by the Lord would be fulfilled’ (Lk 1: 45)

It’s in this context, that Mary exclaims the Magnificat.

The image of Mother Mary in this hymn of the Magnificat is that of a powerful and courageous lady.

And these are evident in Her words of the Magnificat…

He has shown the strength of His arm, He has scattered the proud in their conceit.
He has cast down the mighty from their thrones, and has lifted up the lowly.
He has filled the hungry with good things, and the rich He has sent away empty.
He has come to the help of his servant Israel, for He has remembered His promise of mercy (Lk 1: 48-54)

These are not words of mere pious sentimentality or tender words of affection…

These are words which express immense bravery and courage!

The mighty works and wonders of the Lord had made Mother Mary to declare…
… Courage in a God who overpowers the proud and the haughty
… Faith in a God who takes decisive action on behalf of God’s people.
… Hope in a God who vindicates the righteous and condemns the wicked.
… Love in a God who liberates the oppressed, the powerless, the poor and hungry.
… Trust in a God who casts away the self-asserting rich and accept the dependable poor.

Mother Mary declared Her strong assertion and powerful claim in a MIGHTY God!

How Big and Mighty and Strong is God in our life?

Do we believe in the mighty strength of God even in seemingly impossible situations of life?
Do we trust in the awesome majesty of God even when the boat of our lives hits rock bottom?
Do we rely in the colossal power of God even when earthquakes of life wreck havoc in life?

The way we live is a direct consequence of the size of God in our lives!

If we have a view of a Shrunken God…
… then we will live in constant anxiety of the world.

If we have a view of an Insignificant God…
… then we will live in immorality and casualness

If we have a view of a Tiny God…
…then we will live in lethargy, disinterest and indifference.

When we make God small in our lives…
… we offer prayers without faith, worship without awe, service without joy and undergo suffering without hope.

When we make God big in our lives…
… we live a life of daring faith, fearless obedience, zealous worship and passionate evangelization.

Let us measure the height and check the mark… “How BIG is our GOD?”

With Mother Mary, let us also seek to joyfully proclaim the BIG GOD through the Magnificat – “My soul proclaims the glory of the Lord. My spirit rejoices in God my Saviour”

God Bless! Live Jesus!

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Discovering the beauty of the Catholic Church through the Catechism
THE LAY FAITHFUL

“The term ‘laity’ is here understood to mean all the faithful except those in Holy Orders and those who belong to a religious state approved by the Church.

That is, the faithful, who by Baptism are incorporated into Christ and integrated into the People of God, are made sharers in their particular way in the priestly, prophetic, and kingly office of Christ, and have their own part to play in the mission of the whole Christian people in the Church and in the World (CCC # 897)

“Leaping for joy with the Power of the Holy Spirit, so that our joyful and happy lives, may attract and enthuse many people to embrace Jesus, the Lord of all Joy!”

(Based on Song 2:8-14 and Lk 1:39-45 – Tuesday of the 4th Week in Advent)

A story is said of a man in a mission land, who was extremely critical of religion and religious practices.

Once, this man went to a missionary who had been in the place for some years.

He told the missionary, “I want to hear about your religion”

The missionary was pleasantly surprised, and asked him: “Oh that’s great!
But how is it that you would like to hear of my religion.

I have heard of your dislike and aversion to religious practices”

To that, the man answered:
“Well, its very true, that I don’t cherish religion.

But ever since the day you came to our place, I have been observing you.
You are always cheerful and happy.
I have also heard a lot of laughter in your house and in the houses of my village people, who have embraced your faith”

The man continued, “And if you have anything that makes people so joyous, I too want it!”

Joy was the nectar that attracted the man to experience the sweetness of Christ and Christianity.

Am I a person who radiates happiness?
Am I a Christian whose life exudes with joy?

The Gospel of the Day is the delightful description of the joyful encounter between Elizabeth and Mother Mary and the “joyful leap” of John the Baptist, in his first meet with Jesus, the God of Joy!

The Gospel is the beautiful meeting of Two to-be-Mothers, with Two Special Children in their wombs…
… Elizabeth, with John who would be called as the Baptist
… Mary, with Jesus, who would be called as the Messiah

This wonderful encounter begins on a Divinely joyful note:
“When Elizabeth heard the greeting of Mary, the babe leaped in her womb” (Lk 1:41)

This is an interesting word – “leaped”

The Greek word for “leaped” is “skirtao”

We find the usage of this word “skirtao” in different places in the Bible…

In Gen 25:22: Rebeccah’s twin children – Jacob and Esau – “struggled (skirtao)” within her
In Ps 114: 4, 6: The mountains “skipped (skirtao)” like rams in the presence of the Lord
In Mal 3:20: Those who fear the Lord’s name will “skip (skirtao)” like calves.
In Lk 6:23: The chosen ones should rejoice and “leap (skirtao)” for joy

When the mother, Elizabeth, heard the greeting of the Messiah’s Mother, the babe John, “leaped for joy”

Later in his ministry, John would testify to this fact, when he would say: “… the best man, who stands and listens for Him, rejoices greatly at the Bridegroom’s Voice” (Jn 3:29b)

There is great rejoicing, in Divine Presence is a powerful message that we receive.

The presence of the Mother of Jesus, delighted Her cousin, Elizabeth
The presence of Jesus, delighted His cousin, John.

As we gear up ourselves for the Season of Christmas, this ought to be a reflective question that we need to ponder and make amends, if lacking…
… Is our Christian life, one that “leaps for joy?”

Things around us may seem confusing and uncertain…
… just as it was for Mary who conceived of the Holy Spirit and Elizabeth in her old age

Yet, they were able to rejoice…
… because, their trust was in the Power of the Lord Who had blessed them

People may sometimes reject us, misunderstand us or even humiliate or be indifferent to us…
… just as it was for Mary who would face misunderstandings and Elizabeth who had undergone a lot of shame.

Yet, they were able to rejoice…
… because, their strength was in the favourable Love of the Lord, Who, they knew, had accepted and chosen them, for His cause

Life may sometimes make a fool of us by taking us through roads which are illogical, unreasonable and irrational…
… just as it was for Mary who had to tread unknown paths and Elizabeth who had to take on new responsibilities as a mother at an odd age

Yet, they were able to rejoice…
… because, their hope was in the faithful grace of God, in which they trusted and to Whom they had pledged their life in fidelity and loyalty.

Joy is to be the hallmark of every Christian.
As St Francis de Sales says, “A sad saint is a sorry saint!”

Our lives ought to be a “Gospel of Joy!”

As we get closer to the celebration of the Birth of the “Cause of our Joy”, we need to look into this dimension of Christian holiness: the aspect of Joy.

It is not simply a joy that is manifested…
… by some “plastic smile”
… or with some artificial activism
… or with any created humorous traits

Christian Joy is…
… a result of trusting deeply in the Providence of God
… a felt experience that manifests, effortlessly, in every aspect of life
… an honest expression of the inner peace and serenity – a fruit of the Holy Spirit.

Yes, Joy is to be the nectar that attracts others to experience the sweetness of Christ and Christianity.

Let us always “leap for joy” with the Power of the Holy Spirit…
… and may our joyful and happy lives, attract and enthuse many people to embrace Jesus, the Lord of all Joy!

God Bless! Live Jesus!

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Discovering the beauty of the Catholic Church through the Catechism
THE GOVERNING OFFICE

The power which the Bishops exercise personally in the Name of Christ, is proper, ordinary, and immediate, although its exercise is ultimately controlled by the supreme authority of the Church.”
But the Bishops should not be thought of as vicars of the Pope.
His ordinary and immediate authority over the whole Church does not annul, but on the contrary confirms and defends that of the bishops.
Their authority must be exercised in communion with the whole Church under the guidance of the Pope.
The Good Shepherd ought to be the model and “form” of the Bishop’s pastoral office.
Conscious of his own weaknesses, “the bishop . . . can have compassion for those who are ignorant and erring.

He should not refuse to listen to his subjects whose welfare he promotes as of his very own children…. the faithful … should be closely attached to the bishop as the Church is to Jesus Christ, and as Jesus Christ is to the Father” (CCC # 895-896)

“Imitating Mother Mary in Her dare and courage for the sake of God’s Kingdom to ‘give up’ completely”

(Based on Isa 7:10-14 and Lk 1:26-38 – Monday of the 4th Week in Advent)

There goes a simple story of a father trying to explain the importance of the season of Advent to his ten-year-old son. He stresses on the need to prepare oneself well for Christmas.

The father said, “You ought to ‘give up’ something in Advent; something you will really miss, like for example, chocolates!”

The boy thought for a moment, then asked, “What are you giving up, Daddy?” “I’m giving up liquor,” the father replied.

“But before dinner you were drinking something” the boy protested. “Oh! That was only wine” said the father “I gave up hard liquor”

To which the boy replied, “Well then, I think even I’ll give up hard chocolates!!”

‘Giving up’ completely, in life, becomes a hard challenge and a difficult task.

But only in going through the tough way, can one obtain true success in life.

Only by giving up human interests in favour of God’s choices, can one find heavenly bliss!

The Gospel of the Day – the Annunciation of the Lord – is a witness to this great aspect of “Giving Up”.

“How can this be?” (Lk 1:34)…
This was the question that the innocent and surprised Mary asked the majestic Angel of God.

Mary had been betrothed to Joseph.

This meant she had formally agreed to marry him but the “wedding” had not yet taken place.

Between the “betrothal” and the “wedding feast” was a period usually lasting six months to a year

During that period the couple was considered to be married and were called husband and wife but (a) they did not live together and (b) did not consummate their marriage physically.

In this context and background,

To be chosen to be visited by the splendour and power of God’s Messenger…

To be told that she was to be conceived and bearing a child…

To be declared that she was to be Mother of God’s Son…
…were highly disturbing, shocking and even fearful prospects!

It was pretty natural for Mary to pose this probing question: “How can this be?”

In her heart, it was slowly dawning that life was going to be highly different hereafter…

If we suppose that her wedding feast is still four or five months away, like teenagers everywhere, we can imagine that all her thoughts centred on things that prospective brides think about…
… the guest list, the decorations, the food, the music
… what she will wear and where they will house the people coming in from out-of-town
… her future life with her beloved husband…

Mary had never been happier.

This was to be the most exciting time of her life.

But the plan of God intervened at this joyful, undisturbed, serene phase of her life…

Often when life moves on an even path, we face the unexpected bumps of troubles.

Often when spiritually things seem to be fine, we encounter unforeseen nights of faith crisis.

Gone were the happy dreams of a grand wedding…
Gone were the hopes for “the most beautiful wedding to her most wonderful man”…
Gone were all her girlish hopes of a quiet life in the home she would personally decorate…
Gone, also, were the visions of a houseful of children conceived in love and filled with mirth…

Life was calling Mother Mary to make the choice of “giving up” completely.

“Giving up” her dreams and desires totally, to share in the magnificent plan of God’s Will.
“Giving up” her fears and apprehensions fully, to leap into a dimly-lit world of faith.

She will have a wedding feast, but not the way she planned.

She will be married, but not before rumours spread through the countryside.
She will have a home, but over her family will rest an uneasy cloud of dark suspicion.

It will all happen, but not the way She expected.
She had to “give up” all…
… Her desires
… Her will
… Her dreams
… Her expectations

The Bible is a mighty witness to those heroes & heroines of faith who “gave up”
Abraham…
Moses…
Ruth…
David…
Elijah…
Jeremiah…
Esther…
Job…

This “giving up” by Mary, was the key element in God’s plan of human salvation.

Today, each one of is being invited and challenged to “give up” things in life…
“Give up” our will in favour of God’s Will in our lives.
“Give up” our sinful tendencies to allow purity and holiness to overshadow us.
“Give up” our selfish desires and interests to make space for the needs of others.
“Give up” our personal time of comfort and luxury to give more time to the Lord.
“Give up” our judgmental attitudes and embrace the spirit of gentleness and forgiveness.
“Give up” our wrecking feelings of brokenness and let in God’s presence and grace to heal us.

No doubt that this “giving up” is a hard task and even might seem “impossible” to us.

But the Angel Gabriel assures and comforts us, “For with God, nothing is impossible” (Lk 1:37).

Got any rivers you think are unassailable?
Got any mountains you can’t tunnel through?

God specializes in things thought impossible.

He does the things others cannot do!

Mother Mary is the greatest human example of impossibilities being converted to realities through God’s Power!

In Her yes, humanity said Yes to God…
In Her “giving up”, humanity has “given up” the sinful nature.

She is our Model disciple to imitate.
She is our Mother beloved to hold fast to.
She is our Madonna Special to intercede to.

Let us imitate Mother Mary in Her dare and courage for the sake of God’s Kingdom to “give up” completely.

God Bless! Live Jesus!

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Discovering the beauty of the Catholic Church through the Catechism
THE GOVERNING OFFICE

“The bishops, as vicars and legates of Christ, govern the particular Churches assigned to them by their counsels, exhortations, and example, but over and above that also by the authority and sacred power” which indeed they ought to exercise so as to edify, in the spirit of service which is that of their Master (CCC # 894)

“Deepen our resolve to live a ‘life of sharing’ as we approach the Nativity of Christ, so that each of our actions may become an expression of Divine Experience for the other!”

(Based on Mic 5:1-4a, Heb 10:5-10 and Lk 1:39-45 – 4th Sunday of Advent, Year C)

There was a little boy, who wanted to meet God. He guessed that the trip would be very long, so he packed his bag with a lot of chocolates, cookies and his favourite mango juice as well.

He started his journey and walked for a long time – even in the hot, blazing sun.

Finally, he got tired and found a park to rest. In the park, he met an old woman…
… sitting all by herself, just staring at some pigeons.

The boy, tired and famished, sat down next to her and opened his bag.

He was about to open his favourite drink when he noticed that the old woman looked hungry.

So he offered her a cookie. She gratefully accepted it and smiled at him.

Her smile was so pretty, that the boy wanted to see it again.

So he offered her the mango juice as well.

Once again, she gratefully accepted it, and smiled at him. The boy was delighted!

They sat there, the whole afternoon – eating and smiling – without saying a word.

Finally, as it grew dark, the boy realized he was too late, and had to rush back home.
As he got up to leave, and had taken a few steps, he turned…
… ran back and gave the woman a loving hug.

When the boy reached the house, his mother was surprised at the deep joy that the child radiated, and asked the reason for it. The boy answered, “I had lunch with God!”
And before the mother could say anything, the boy added: “You know what?

She’s got the most beautiful smile I’ve ever seen!”

Meanwhile, the old woman also filled with happiness, reached her house, and was asked by her son, the reason for it. The old woman answered, “I had lunch with God”
And before the son could say anything, the woman added: “You know what?

He’s much younger than I expected!”

“Sharing” became the wonderful platform, for the two of them – the young boy and the old woman – to experience joy, with the essence of Divinity.

Yes, “sharing” is a quality, which is a reflection of the Divine – “self-giving” and “self-emptying”

The Gospel of the Day is a beautiful recounting of the “joy in sharing” – through the encounter of Mary and Elizabeth.

Mary, after having received the surprising and confounding message from Angel Gabriel, to be the Mother of the Son of God, doesn’t remain captivated or captured in heavenly bliss.
… Instead, She sets out, “with haste” to the town of Judah, to the house of Her cousin, Elizabeth (Cf. Lk 1:39)

Heaven had revealed to Her the good news of Divine Favour; but, Mary doesn’t swell up in pride

Instead, She sets out, in service and humility

Divine Joy and Grace makes Mary to imitate the quality of the Child within Her: To share!
And this act of sharing by Mary, caused Elizabeth, Her cousin, to rejoice and the child, John, to “leap for joy!” (Cf. Lk 1:44)

Elizabeth testifies to this fact when she exclaimed in a loud voice, “For behold, when the voice of Your greeting came to my ears, the babe in my womb leaped for joy” (Lk 1: 44)

This is an essential dimension of Christian Life: Sharing!

Just as Christ shared…
… by emptying of His glory, and becoming one like us, in all things, except sin
… by being part of our human experiences and being a model to live a perfect life
… by taking up pain and suffering to redeem humanity from the clutches of sin
… by giving Himself entirely, with love and deep affection, in the Holy Eucharist

Just as Mother Mary shared…
… by offering Herself in service to her cousin, Elizabeth in her need
… by becoming a model to us, by living a life in total obedience to God’s Will
… by offering Herself to God’s Providence and letting Herself be the Mother of all humanity

We too are invited, exhorted and challenged to live a “Life of Sharing!”

Our Christian lives must…
… cause us to share our resources and abilities in the service of the family and community we are in
… make us share our time with those in need – especially of encouragement and consolation
… cause us to share our knowledge and experience to bring more people to faith in Christ
… make us share our little acts of charity and share in the redeeming act of Christ

When we share our life with the ones in need…
… we experience joy and satisfaction

When we share of our self – time, love, material things or anything – to those in want…
… we experience happiness and contentment.

The world today is much thirsty to receive love and extremely hungry to receive care.

Each Christian is expected and invited to imitate Christ and help others to experience Divine Love.

Mother Mary is our model towards this.
She made choices to grow in imitation of Her Son and helped others to experience Divine Joy

As the words of St Teresa of Avila…
“Christ has no body but yours,
No hands, no feet on earth but yours!

Yours are the eyes with which He looks with compassion on this world,
Yours are the feet with which he walks to do good,
Yours are the hands, with which he blesses all the world”

Let us deepen our resolve to live a “life of sharing”…
… especially as we approach the Nativity of Christ

So that each of our actions may become an expression of Divine Experience for the other!

God Bless! Live Jesus!

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📖 Discovering the beauty of the Catholic Church through the Catechism
THE SANCTIFYING OFFICE

The Bishop is “the steward of the Grace of the Supreme Priesthood,” especially in the Eucharist which he offers personally or whose offering he assures through the priests, his co-workers.
The Eucharist is the centre of the life of the particular Church.
The Bishop and Priests sanctify the Church by their prayer and work, by their ministry of the Word and of the Sacraments.
They sanctify her by their example, “not as domineering over those in your charge but being examples to the flock.”

Thus, “together with the flock entrusted to them, they may attain to eternal life. (CCC # 893)

(A journey through Verses from the Bible – with practical applications – to Love Jesus & Live Jesus!)

DAY 19: GOD FULFILLS HIS PROMISES!

BIBLE VERSE
(Mt 1:22) “All this took place to fulfil what had been spoken by the Lord through the prophet!”

CONTEXT OF THE BIBLE VERSE
The announcement of the Birth of Christ, is accompanied by St Mathew mightily proclaiming the prophetic verses of the Old Testament, to give the beautiful message…
… that God always fulfils His promises, and is with us always – working out everything for our good
… that God’s delays are not His denials, and that we need to grow in trusting and hoping in Him

WHAT IS CHRIST SPEAKING TO ME, THROUGH THIS BIBLE VERSE?

1. Never be discouraged even when things seem going the unexpected way – the Promises and the Presence of the Lord will always accompany and strengthen you! God, will surely make the Way, where there seems to be none!
2. To wait on the Lord and His Time is a great Blessing. It surely is not easy; but the fruit of this patience, as Scripture says, has always been rewarding and salvific!

HOW CAN I CELEBRATE CHRIST, THIS CHRISTMAS?

Think of one unexpected thing happening in your life – offer it to the Providence of God, and ask Him to protect and lead you!
Do you feel you have an unanswered prayer? Tell: Lord, I offer this desire to You, and trust Your Holy Will and Plan in this matter

LET’S PRAY
Loving Jesus, grant me Gift of Hope to trust that You will always fulfil all Your Promises, and to be joyfully patient in every situation of my life, Amen!

Let us celebrate Christ, this Christmas, and live like Him!

God Bless! Live Jesus!

(A journey through Verses from the Bible – with practical applications – to Love Jesus & Live Jesus!)

DAY 17: HAVE YOU ACCEPTED JESUS AS THE SAVIOUR OF YOUR LIFE?

BIBLE VERSE
(Mt 1:21) “You are to name Him Jesus, for He will save His people from their sins!”

CONTEXT OF THE BIBLE VERSE
Heaven reveals the Name of the Son of God – Jesus – giving all of us the Good News…
… that this Precious Name which means, “God Saves” is the invitation of God to everyone to receive salvation!
… that the primary purpose of the celebration of Christmas, is for all of us to pledge to move away from sin, and to live faithfully doing God’s Will!

WHAT IS CHRIST SPEAKING TO ME, THROUGH THIS BIBLE VERSE?

1. There is salvation and power when we call on the Name of Jesus, and live by His Teachings
2. We are all called to a life of sanctity – away from the corruption of sin – and embracing the way of holiness!

HOW CAN I CELEBRATE CHRIST, THIS CHRISTMAS?

Repeat the Name “JESUS” ten times, as you surrender your to His Care and Love!
Think of one sin/bad habit that is bothering your life; take a resolution to give it up, and do the necessary follow up to stay in holiness!

LET’S PRAY
Lord Jesus, as I renew my commitment to You as the Saviour of my life, give me the Grace to live in holiness and sanctity, Amen!

Let us celebrate Christ, this Christmas, and live like Him!

God Bless! Live Jesus!

“Being inspired by St Joseph to grow in obedience to the Will of God – with promptness and joy!”

(Based on Jer 23:5-8 and Mt 1:18-24 – Saturday of the 3rd Week in Advent)

A child standing in front of the Christmas Crib was looking for quite some time at the statue of St Joseph.

The mother, tapped his shoulder and asked: “Why is it that you looking so long at St Joseph?”

The boy with an innocent smile replied:
“Mamma…St Joseph was such a great person, isn’t it!

He had the honour to be so close with the two holiest persons of this world – Jesus, the Son of God and Mary, the Immaculate Mother!

I wish that we would talk and pray to St Joseph more..
… than just think of him, only during Christmas season!”

The boy was recounting the greatness of St Joseph…
…who often remains hidden in the backdrop, amid the great galaxy of Biblical Stars!

The Gospel of the day is a beautiful glimpse to understand the person of St Joseph.

Let’s learn a few of his important virtues.

1. St Joseph was ever attentive and obedient to the voice of God

One of the standout qualities that we observe in St Joseph is his prompt obedience to the voice of God

He listened to the Angel…
… in moments of dilemma, and obediently took Mary as his wife (Mt 1:20-24)
… in moments of danger, and obediently took the Mother and Child to Egypt (Mt 1:13-15)
… in moments of doubt, and obediently settled the Holy Family in Nazareth (Mt 1: 20, 22b)

St Joseph was able to let go of his personal choices and his desired comforts and give top priority to do what God wanted him to do.

Holiness consists in doing what God wants – when and where He wants

2. St Joseph teaches us the love for Jesus and Mary

Ever since he recognised the plan of God in his life, St Joseph displayed a tremendous commitment and love to Jesus and Mary

He had many occasions of choices to let go of them…
… to leave Mary when she was found with Child, even before the marriage
… to leave his pregnant Wife when they found no place in the inn
… to abandon the Child and Mother when a life-danger against them was sensed

But, nothing could deter St Joseph from leaving or abandoning them.

He knew that in God’s plan, They belonged to him, and he would safeguard Them – treasuring Them close to his heart.

Our faith has blessed us with love for Jesus and Mother Mary.

Can we also imitate St Joseph, in holding Them close to our hearts?

3. Humility is a virtue radiated by St Joseph

St Joseph had to face many moments of humiliation, disappointment and uncertainty.

But in his humility, he remained true to God in all those moments

Life sometimes drags us into situations of sadness and even shame.

Many times we let go of God’s Hands, saying that “He is not fair” or “He doesn’t understand me!”

St Joseph teaches us that there is much value in humbling oneself, before the mighty power of the Almighty

4. St Joseph was content to be the “silent worker” in the awesome work of Salvation

St Joseph, was honoured to be sharing the most intimate physical presence with the two holiest persons of this world – Jesus, the Son of God and Mary, the Immaculate Mother.

And yet, he contented himself to be the “silent hard-worker”.

He is a mighty challenge to our world, where seeking for honour, position, fame and reputation become cheap motives, in doing works of charity or even, sadly to say, in ministries of the Church.

5. St Joseph is the model of chastity
   Mary is the New Ark of Covenant, bearing Divinity in Her.

St Jerome, says that St Joseph, the son of David, shared his royal ancestor’s fear of coming into overly close contact with the Tabernacle of the Lord: “Who am I,” asked King David, “that the Ark of the Lord should come to me?” (2 Sam. 6:9)

Chastity is the virtue that moderates the desire for sexual pleasure according to the principles of faith and right reason.

In married people, chastity moderates the desire in conformity with their state of life
In unmarried people who wish to marry, the desire is moderated by abstention or unless they get married
In those who resolve not to marry, the desire is sacrificed entirely.

6. St Joseph is often depicted with a White Lily in his hand, to depict purity and holiness

St Joseph was prefigured in Joseph of the Old Testament

In the Old Testament, we read Joseph, the son of Jacob, had stored up, in Egypt, grain to provide bread for the preservation of the People of Israel (Gen 42)

In the New Testament, St Joseph, safeguarded, in Egypt, the Bread of Life, for the salvation of the People of God. (Mt 1: 14)

7. St Joseph is a model leader

True to being a Father, St Joseph displayed many leadership qualities, which needs to be imitated by us, in our practical life

Defender of the community/team members: St Joseph preserved Mother Mary from idle talks of gossip and malicious speculation

Protection of those in care: St Joseph did not give up in the face of hostile situations, when it was time for the Birth of the Child

Needful and prompt action: St Joseph acted quickly and promptly, in response to situations of danger and of need

St Joseph invites us to grow in obedience to the Will of God – with promptness and joy

Let us pray that we will be able to nurture a deeper and tender affection for Jesus and Mother Mary and be close to Them, to lead a pure and holy life.

May the greatness of St Joseph inspire us!

And may we talk and pray to St Joseph more…
… than just think of him, only during Christmas season!

God Bless! Live Jesus!

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Discovering the beauty of the Catholic Church through the Catechism

Divine assistance is also given to the successors of the apostles, teaching in communion with the successor of Peter, and, in a particular way, to the bishop of Rome, pastor of the whole Church…
… when, without arriving at an infallible definition and without pronouncing in a “definitive manner,” they propose in the exercise of the ordinary Magisterium a teaching that leads to better understanding of Revelation in matters of faith and morals.

To this ordinary teaching the faithful “are to adhere to it with religious assent” which, though distinct from the assent of faith, is nonetheless an extension of it. (CCC # 892)

“Being moved by the Magnificent Miracles wrought by our Marvellous God!”

(Based on Gen 49:2, 8-12 and Mt 1:1-17 – Friday of the 3rd Week in Advent)

A genealogist is a person who records/tables the descent of a person, family, or group from an ancestor or ancestors.

He/She draws the family tree.

Once a person asked a genealogist:
“Why do you think that your duty is very great?”

The genealogist, with a gentle smile replied:
“Remember that when a family member passes away, they take a library of memories with them.

It’s a genealogist’s duty to record them all, for the good of the future generations!”

True indeed!

A genealogy gives a memorable library of memories…
… and helps us to be moved by the Magnificent Miracles wrought by our Marvellous God!

The Gospel of the Day presents the marvellous work of St Mathew, the genealogist…
…the Genealogy of Jesus Christ, the Son of God!

This passage of the Gospel is something that we hear and read very rarely…
… and much less meditated upon.

What are the different aspects that the Genealogy of Christ makes us to reflect on?

The Genealogy of Jesus is one of the finest treasures of God’s Grace and Providence
St Matthew (1: 1-17) and St Luke (3: 23-38) present the Genealogy of Jesus Christ.

They could be called as the “forgotten passages of the Christmas Story”.
The names in it sound too obscure, their pronunciation beyond comprehension, their purpose highly hazy.

Perhaps, these are some of the common excuses we find, in avoiding to read or reflect on the accounts of the Genealogy.

But we must realise that in the account of the Genealogy, is buried the marvellous working of God’s Grace and His Amazing Providence – the manner in which the “streams of God’s Grace flows through the ordinary and the great, the mighty and simple people”

The Genealogy teaches us open our eyes to see the ways of God working in our lives- hidden yet awesome; silent yet splendid

The two accounts of Genealogy are not contradictory; rather they are two perspectives to show Jesus as the Son of David

There are two accounts of Genealogy in the Gospels: St Matthew, which starts with Abraham; St Luke, which starts with Adam

Apparently, the two accounts look to be contradicting each other
But on closer look, we find…
… St Matthew traced the family line through Joseph, whereas St Luke traced it through Mary.

This was because Gospel of Matthew, being written to the Jews, had a legal requirement to show Jesus descending from the father, who belonged to the line of King David.

This account also made sure it kept the prophecy in Jer 22:24-30 (“For none of his sons will succeed in occupying the throne of David or ever succeed in ruling over Judah…)

St Luke’s version also shows Jesus as the Son of David, coming through his son Nathan.

Thus, both the accounts show that Jesus, as the Son of David, had the right to the throne of Israel

The Genealogy mentions some notorious people – yet the Messiah was born in this family!

The Genealogy mentions 5 women
a. Tamar: Disguised herself as a prostitute and seduced her father-in-law Judah (Gen 38)
b. Rahab: A Gentile, prostitute; she helped the Jewish spies to hide and to escape from the enemies ( Josh 2)
c. Ruth: A Gentile, with the background of a family who offered themselves to pagan gods
d. The wife of Uriah: The Gospel doesn’t even mention her name; suffered abuse by David, the great King of Israel.
e. Mary: A simple woman from Nazareth, who was found to be with child, before the marriage.

All these five women were considered dis”graced” – some gentiles, some involved in sexual immorality, some finding themselves in situations of family disgrace.

Yet the Messiah is born in this family – to show that God’s “Grace” can wash away every dis”grace”!

It shows that God can write straight, with crooked lines!

The Genealogy is also a lesson to the self-righteous people

Besides the mention of the apparently “not-pleasant women’, the list also mentions of kings, many of whom were unfaithful, of idolaters, of people without morals etc.

The Family Tree of Jesus is really not a pretty picture; it looks to be “very unclean”

Yet, St Matthew’s Gospel, written to the Jews, gives a message that it is not self-righteousness that wins salvation (as thought by many Pharisees, Scribes and Jewish leaders); it is God’s Grace and Mercy, along with our co-operation to His Will.

The Genealogy gives us the great message of hope

We may have…
… a past that is hurting us – either due to our biological family or due to our own experiences of life
… a past that is sinful and we wish to forget
… a past that is painful or abused
… a past that has experienced humiliations and rejection
Yet, the Genealogy teaches us the big lesson that all our past can be cleansed and healed, by the mighty presence of Jesus.

Cardinal Van Thuan says in his book ‘The Testimony of Hope’:
“The river of history, full of sinners and criminals, becomes a source of pure water, as we approach the fullness of time.

With Mary, the Mother and Jesus, the Messiah, all generations will be renewed again”

The Genealogy of our Blessed Lord teaches that Jesus was very much historical…
… and shared our world.

In Jesus, we have a God, who is not distant or away from us – but Someone, Who is deeply intimate with us, involved in our lives and sharing our joys and pains of life.

May a deeper meditation on the Genealogy of Jesus enable us to explore the memorable library of memories…
… and helps us to be moved by the Magnificent Miracles wrought by our Marvellous God!

God Bless! Live Jesus!

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Discovering the beauty of the Catholic Church through the Catechism
THE TEACHING OFFICE

The Roman Pontiff, head of the college of bishops, enjoys this infallibility in virtue of his office, when, as supreme pastor and teacher of all the faithful – who confirms his brethren in the faith he proclaims by a definitive act a doctrine pertaining to faith or morals…
… the infallibility promised to the Church is also present in the body of bishops when, together with Peter’s successor, they exercise the supreme Magisterium,” above all in an Ecumenical Council.
When the Church through its supreme Magisterium proposes a doctrine “for belief as being divinely revealed,” and as the teaching of Christ, the definitions “must be adhered to with the obedience of faith.”

This infallibility extends as far as the deposit of divine Revelation itself. (CCC # 891)

“Fearlessly holding on to the Lord and His ways, and thus living as joyful witnesses!”

(Based on Isa 54:1-10 and Lk 7:24-30 – Thursday of the 3rd Week in Advent)

A preacher was invited for a Missions Preaching, in a particular kingdom.

The King of this land was known to be an extremely notorious and corrupt ruler.
So, naturally it was a great challenge to preach the Word of God.

As the preacher stood up to break the Word of God, he heard a voice within him:
“O preacher, be wary of what you speak, the King of the Land is here.”
This filled him with fear!

But as his lips trembled to speak, he heard another voice:
“O preacher, do not be wary! The King of kings is with you!”

The assurance that God, the King of kings was with him, made him powerful and bold to preach the Word…
… without any fear or worry.

Do we stand firm in our Christian faith, knowing that the Lord is always with us…
… or do we wilt under pressure, and compromise for the ways of the world?

The Gospel of the Day presents Jesus exemplifying the character of John the Baptist.

Jesus says, “What did you go out in the wilderness to behold? A reed shaken by the wind?” (Lk 7:25).

Jesus puts forth before the people a rhetorical question.
This is not a question to elicit a direct answer.

Instead is meant…
… to be reflective
… to be causing to generate greater thinking
… to be tuned to enter into a ruminative mode.

By this clever technique, Jesus draws the attention of the people to a deeper respect of the personality of John the Baptist.

One element that Jesus highlights in John the Baptist is his firmness in proclaiming the Kingdom of God.

Donning an ascetic attire, John the Baptist perfectly carried out the task entrusted to Him – of being the forerunner of Christ.

He would…
… Be bold to invite the people to repent of their sinful ways
… Be firm in pointing the corrupt practices of even the authorities
… Be unassuming in lowering himself and leading the people to the Lamb of God
… Be uncompromising in countering the evil King Herod, even to the point of losing his head!

What is our conviction in being a witness of Christ?

The challenges to live as a Christian is undoubtedly difficult in today’s secularized, materialistic and individualistic world.

Many times, we are tempted to dilute our Christian Faith…
… and just go along with the ways of the world – which seem to be much easier and comfortable.

But this is where the Lord presents to us to example of John the Baptist…
… and be “a reed that is not shaken by the wind.”

Sure…
… we will have our fears to stand against the principles of the world
… we will have our apprehensions in holding on to the virtues of the Gospel

But Jesus, the King of kings, whispers in the depths of our beings:
“O Christian, Be not wary! The King of kings is with you!”

Let us fearlessly hold on to the Lord and His ways and thus live as Joyful Witnesses.

God bless! Live Jesus!

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📖 Discovering the beauty of the Catholic Church through the Catechism
THE HIERARCHICAL CONSTITUTION OF THE CHURCH

The mission of the Magisterium is linked to the definitive nature of the covenant established by God with his people in Christ.
It is this Magisterium’s task to preserve God’s people from deviations and defections and to guarantee them the objective possibility of professing the true faith without error.

Thus, the pastoral duty of the Magisterium is aimed at seeing to it that the People of God abides in the truth that liberates. (CCC # 890)

(A journey through Verses from the Bible – with practical applications – to Love Jesus & Live Jesus!)

DAY 15: GOD WORKS IN OUR HISTORY!

BIBLE VERSE
(Mt 1:16) “Jacob the father of Joseph the husband of Mary, of whom Jesus was born, Who is called the Messiah!”

CONTEXT OF THE BIBLE VERSE
The Gospel of St Mathew begins with the Genealogy of Christ…
… which narrates the Awesome Hand of God scripting a beautiful line of history for the Son of God. … which climaxes mentioning about Jesus Christ and His Real Historical Presence in our world

WHAT IS CHRIST SPEAKING TO ME, THROUGH THIS BIBLE VERSE?

1. The fantastic chronicle of the Genealogy is a reminder that God “is always with us” and will work out everything in life – everything – for the good. We need to trust Him, and offer ourselves totally to His Will
2. Jesus knows everything that we undergo in life – our pains, hurts, anxieties, and uncertainties – because He has lived like us

HOW CAN I CELEBRATE CHRIST, THIS CHRISTMAS?

Thank the Lord for our families and our ancestors; offer them – just as they are – to the Mercy of God
Offer anything that is disturbing you at this moment, and surrender with trust to the Lord

LET’S PRAY
Lord Jesus, thank you for the gift of my family and all my ancestors; may Your Mercy cleanse all of us, and help me to trust in you, even in my moments of pains and hardships, Amen!

Let us celebrate Christ, this Christmas, and live like Him!

God Bless! Live Jesus!