“Being ever faithful to all our duties as a follower of Christ, knowing that ‘our journey is assured to be in safe hands, by our offering to the Lord!’”

(Based on 1 Cor 7:25-31 and Lk 6:20-26 – Wednesday of the 23rd Week in Ordinary Time, Year 2)

A highly rich and influential person was privileged to be one of the special guests to undertake a 21-day cruise on a Majestic Battleship.

This ship belonged to the former Emperor of the land, and had been modernized with immense facilities and luxurious features.

The man was highly impressed with the comforts that were provided on board.

Among the many things that made a pleasant impact on him was also the Sunday Morning Mass that was attended by all the sailors and attendants, who were not on duty.

It was more so, since the man himself was not so particular about the practise of faith.

At the conclusion of the celebration of the Mass, the man asked one of the sailors:
“Are you obliged to attend these Sunday Morning services?”

“It’s not exactly about obligation, Sir!” replied the sailor, “but our journey is assured to be in safe hands, by this our offering to the Lord!”

Those sailors and attendants had made a conscious and deliberate choice to practise their faith and to surrender themselves to the Higher Power for safety and protection.

Our lives are also similar to such cruises…
… sometimes going through calm and quiet waters
… sometimes struggling in disturbed and turbulent waters
… sometimes encountering dangerous storms and violent gales

Do we make a constant choice for the Lord and live ourselves in surrender to Him?

The Gospel of the Day is the beautiful teaching of the Beatitudes in the Gospel of Luke.

The beatitudes are assurances of blessing and joy to all those who make a conscious choice for the Lord and His Kingdom!

Jesus says, “Blessed are you poor, for yours is the Kingdom of God” (Lk 6: 20)

One of the great messages in this verse is the Message of Hope!

The Greek word used for “poor” is “ptochos”

Ptochos means…
… reduced to beggary or asking for alms
… destitute of wealth, influence, position, honour
… helpless, powerless to accomplish an end

It’s interesting to note that this word “Ptochos” has its origin in the word “ptosso” which means “to crouch”
Therefore, the “poor” literally means, “one who is crouching” – a position where the knees are bent and the upper body is brought forward and down

It’s a position that is very often defied and despised, in the worldly standards, which emphasizes on being proud and haughty!
It’s a position that is very often made fun of and fooled, in the eyes of the world which glorifies pomp and external show!

Thus, when the Lord says, “Blessed are the poor,” it is a tremendous message of Hope…
… To those who find themselves at the peripheries of life
… To those lost in the miseries of life and find no hope – materially, spiritually, mentally, and socially

Of course, the word “poor” does not mean…
… that one simply becomes timid and passive or be simply submissive to any social evils without any resistance
… that one adopts an attitude of being “always hands folded” in surrender or “faces cast down” in defeat

“Poor” instead refers to the fact that one has God has one’s greatest strength and treasure

Being “poor in the Lord”, contradictory as it may sound, is the greatest richness that one can have.
Being “poor in the Lord” gives the greatest confidence to a person, who realises that being in God, one can never fail!

How true is the saying, “One who kneels before God, can stand before anyone!”

One who is dependent on God and His Grace…
One who is willing to challenge the society’s unjust norms with the mighty trust in God…
One who is aware of one’s strengths and weaknesses and yet offers oneself entirely to the power of God…

Such a one, in the eyes of the world may be “poor”… but is “Blessed” in the sight of God!

It takes courage to be a Christian who is committed!
It requires a conviction to be a follower of Christ who is passionate!

Let us be ever faithful to all our duties as a follower of Christ, not just in fulfilment as an obligation…
… but knowing that “our journey is assured to be in safe hands, by our offering to the Lord!”

God Bless! Live Jesus!

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📖 Discovering the beauty of the Catholic Church through the Catechism
THE EUCHARIST IN THE ECONOMY OF SALVATION – The movement of the celebration

From the very beginning Christians have brought, along with the bread and wine for the Eucharist, gifts to share with those in need.
This custom of the collection, ever appropriate, is inspired by the example of Christ who became poor to make us rich: Those who are well off, and who are also willing, give as each chooses.

What is gathered is given to him who presides to assist orphans and widows, those whom illness or any other cause has deprived of resources, prisoners, immigrants and, in a word, all who are in need. (CCC #1351)

“Responding to the Call of the Lord, Who trusts, invites and calls all of us!”

(Based on 1 Cor 6:1-11 and Lk 6:12-19- Tuesday of the 23rd Week in Ordinary Time, Year 2)

There is “trial by jury” in the British legal system.

The jury consists of 12 individuals chosen at random from an appropriate panel.
>> Anyone who is on the electoral register aged between 18 and 70, and who has been ordinarily resident in the UK for five years since the age of 13…
… is qualified to serve on the jury.


In his essay “The Twelve Men”, dealing with this British jury system, G. K. Chesterton wrote:
“Whenever our civilization wants a library to be catalogued, or a solar system discovered, or any other trifle of this kind, it uses up its specialists.
>> But when it wishes anything done which is really serious, it collects twelve of the ordinary men standing around…

The same thing was done, if I remember right, by the Founder of Christianity!”


And it’s true, right?

Jesus did choose twelve people of ordinary standing and average repute as His Chosen Apostles.


The Gospel of the Day presents this account of this choosing of the Twelve by Jesus, the Master.
>> Twelve persons of varied character…
… invited to be part of the ‘One Kingdom Mission’.
>> Twelve persons of different backgrounds…
… invited to be part of the ‘One Jesus Culture’.
>> Twelve persons of dissimilar emotions…
… invited to be part of the ‘One Love Civilization’.


Let these twelve persons today teach us something simple yet profound for our Spiritual Lives:

1. Simon, called as Peter: The one known for his wavering temperaments yet faithful and simple in his attitude.
>> Assets that can be learnt: To be humble enough to accept our mistakes and correct them

2. Andrew: The one who left fishing and at the multiplication of loaves, brought the five loaves and two fish to Jesus
>> Assets that can be learnt: To bring simple things before God who can work great wonders

3. James: The one who was zealous and who accompanied the Lord at many crucial events of His life
>> Assets that can be learnt: To be zealous for the Kingdom of God and be ready to be in close company with Jesus

4. John: The one who was loyal and displayed tremendous love and faithfulness to His Master
>> Assets that can be learnt: To be faithful and loyal to the Crucified One even in the midst of all uncertainties.

5. Philip: The one, with a Greek name, who told another disciple about Jesus & als helped the Greeks to come to Jesus
>> Assets that can be learnt: To be a person who brings other people to the saving presence of Jesus

6. Bartholomew: The one who was shocked that Jesus was from the lowly Nazareth but was quick to trounce this feeling
>> Assets that can be learnt: To let go of prejudices and preconception about persons and situations

7. Matthew: The one who was given an opportunity to reform his way of life and was generous to let go of his possessions
>> Assets that can be learnt: To be free from material attachments in order to follow Christ freely and fully

8. Thomas: The one who was highly daring and also frank and straightforward in his Faith and his attitude
>> Assets that can be learnt: To be bold about one’s faith even if it means to seek a clarification from God

9. James, son of Alpheus: The one who gets hardly any mention except being called by Jesus and being with the others in the Upper Room after the Ascension of Jesus
>> Assets that can be learnt: To remain in the backdrop, in serving the Lord and being unfazed even if not popular

10. Simon, the Zealot: The one who is also hardly mentioned but is identified with having a great religious zeal
>> Assets that can be learnt: To curb one’s personal instincts and likings in order to suit the style and spirit of Jesus

11. Judas Thaddeus: The one who wrote the Beautiful letter of Jude and exhorts to be faithful to Christ even in hardships
>> Assets that can be learnt: To learn to be faithful and strong even when persecuted for being a Christian

12. Judas Iscariot: The one who gave up his love of Jesus for the sake of the love of money
>> Assets that can be learnt: To avoid the subtle trap of materialism and instead remain focused on Jesus always


Twelve persons of simple nature…
… teach us many secrets and virtues to be powerful witnesses of the Kingdom

Twelve persons of ordinary calibre…
… teach us to become the extension of the love and mission of Christ Jesus


The Jury or the Panel of Twelve Ordinary Persons, chosen by Jesus, have contributed their mite in spreading the Gospel and making this world to experience and recognize God’s tremendous love!
>> The Master now seeks the same of us too…

Though ordinary or simple or little or weak we are – just like the Apostles…
… He still trusts, invites and calls all of us…

Shall we say, Yes?


God Bless! Live Jesus!

——————————————
📖 Discovering the beauty of the Catholic Church through the Catechism
THE LITURGICAL CELEBRATION OF THE EUCHARIST – The movement of the celebration
>> Sometimes, in procession, the bread and wine are brought to the altar; they will be offered by the priest in the name of Christ in the Eucharistic sacrifice in which they will become his body and blood.
>> It is the very action of Christ at the Last Supper – “taking the bread and a cup.”
>> “The Church alone offers this pure oblation to the Creator, when she offers what comes forth from his creation with thanksgiving.”
>> The presentation of the offerings at the altar takes up the gesture of Melchizedek and commits the Creator’s gifts into the hands of Christ who, in his sacrifice, brings to perfection all human attempts to offer sacrifices. (CCC #1350)
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“‘Encircling’ ourselves in prayer and self-discipline!”

(Based on 1 Cor 5:1-8 and Lk 6:6-11 – Monday of the 23rd Week in Ordinary Time, Year 2)

A young missionary in a particular village, had heard the fame of a senior missionary and his successful ventures in reviving the faith of the people.

Wanted to know the secret of success in ministry, the younger missionary, on meeting the senior, asked him:
“What is the secret of reviving the faith of the people in my village?”

The senior man, who was also aware of the worldly lifestyle of the younger missionary said:
“Go back to your home and lock yourself up in a private room.
>> Then, take a piece of chalk, and mark a circle on the floor.

Get down on your knees, then, inside the circle…
… and pray to God to begin a revival inside the circle!
When this prayer is heard, a revival will take place in your people as well!”


Yes… it is when one is revived with the Spirit and Enthusiasm of the Lord…
… that one can radiate the same to others!

This revival demands that we “encircle” ourselves in prayer and self-discipline…
… by being willing to get out of our “comfortable zones” of worldliness and hard-heartedness!


The Gospel of the Day is an encounter with a group of people, who got stuck in their own “comfortable zones” of interpreting and understanding the Scriptures, failing to be open to the True Author of the Scriptures…
… and thus refusing to tread the path of mercy, compassion and charity.


The Gospel passage is another Sabbath day controversy.

Jesus is in the synagogue, teaching and proclaiming God’s Word.
>> His words would bring strength and courage to those in despair
>> His teaching would fill with hope those who were stranded on the peripheries of life
>> His preaching would invigorate those who were sapped of energy and felt themselves rejected.


Among those who heard Him in the synagogue, was a “a man whose right hand was withered” (Lk 6: 6)

It’s not mentioned how did he began to have a withered hand…
… maybe he was born so
… maybe he met with an accident
… maybe he had a sickness which made it so

But having a withered right hand had its own implications and difficulties to pose.


Right hand in the Bible, usually refers to..
… being the hand of blessing
… being the hand of strength
… being the hand of labour

So this man with the withered right hand is portrayed as being…
… disfigured in his purpose and goals of life
… pitiable in being rendered weak and sort of helpless


But more than this man with the physical disability, there were also some others, who had a “withered mentality” – the Pharisees
>> They had God, the source and origin of the Law, as their “right hand”
>> They had the privilege of learning and knowing the Scriptures, as their “right hand”


But, unfortunately, we find them with “withered”…
… their focus on God, the purpose and goal of the Law was “withered!”
… their opportunity to interpret and understand the Scriptures properly was “withered!”


To the man who had the physically withered right hand, Jesus said, “Stretch out your hand” (Lk 6:10)

Probably these words were also directed or perhaps intended more for the Pharisees who were “withered” in their understanding and mentality regarding the Law and the Author of the Law Himself!


Jesus was asking them to “stretch out their hands” which were withered…
… because they failed to understand the basic purpose of God’s Law which was aimed at reflecting on God’s Goodness and to reflect the same in their lives
… because they were stuck to their own rigid and arrogant interpretation of God’s Word and failed to put into practise the real meaning of God’s Word which is to do good, show mercy and extend charity


Are those words, “stretch out your hand” being directed to us also?
>> Are we failing to centre our lives on the Precious Gift that God has blessed us with – His Holy Word in the Holy Bible – and failing to make efforts to read, learn more and understand God’s Word properly and effectively

>> Do we consciously cultivate practices which help us to set apart time (on a daily, regular basis) to read the Bible and reflect and shape our lives, in the light of the Holy Word of God?

>> Do we remain rigid, obstinate and closed to the voice of the Holy Spirit, who speaks to us, through different sermons, write-ups, talks etc. on the Word of God and allow transformations to happen in my life?

>> Do we be zealous to learn God’s Word more deeply, to know Him more and to cultivate a personal taste to understand the Scriptures better with self-reflection?


Our Blessed Lord invites and exhorts us to have a “Revival in our Christian Lives”

It is only when one is revived with the Spirit and Enthusiasm of the Lord…
… that one can radiate the same to others!


May we allow the Lord to work this revival in us, by “encircling” ourselves in prayer and self-discipline…
… and being willing to get out of our “comfortable zones” of worldliness and hard-heartedness!


God Bless! Live Jesus!

——————————————
📖 Discovering the beauty of the Catholic Church through the Catechism
THE LITURGICAL CELEBRATION OF THE EUCHARIST – The movement of the celebration
>> The Liturgy of the Word includes “the writings of the prophets,” that is, the Old Testament, and “the memoirs of the apostles” (their letters and the Gospels).
>> After the homily, which is an exhortation to accept this Word as what it truly is, the Word of God…
… and to put it into practice, come the intercessions for all men, according to the Apostle’s words: “I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all men, for kings, and all who are in high positions.” (CCC #1349)
—————————————-

“Being willing to be ‘filtered’ and living in holiness, with a sense of mission to bring all people to the Love of Christ!”

(Based on Wis 9:13-18b, Philem 9-10,12-17 and Lk 14:25-33 – 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time, Cycle C)

Filtration is a process by which any material is passed through a certain device to remove unwanted elements in it.

Filtration happens every day around the world.

It occurs both in nature and in engineered systems.

For example…
… in many living bodies (including humans), renal filtration removes wastes from the blood
… in water treatment and sewage treatment, undesirable elements are removed by absorption into a filter medium

Every filtration has three basic components:

1. The Feed: The original material with the presence of unwanted elements
2. The Filter: The mechanism/device that does the cleansing
3. The Filtrate: The matter that comes after the process

Our Life as a Christian is also a “process of filtration”

And has three components as well

1. The Feed: Our lives – with our own weaknesses and sinful tendencies
2. The Filter: Jesus, the Crucified Lord – Who Cleanses us
3. The Filtrate: Our life as a Disciple of Christ – lived in holiness and with a sense of mission

Are we willing to allow the “FEED” of our lives to encounter the “FILTER”…
… so that we can emerge as pure and holy “FILTRATE?”

The Gospel of the Day is this exhortation of the Lord to all who seek to follow Him:
“If any one comes to me and does not hate his own father and mother and wife and children and brothers and sisters…
… yes, and even his own life, cannot be my disciple!

Whoever does not bear his own cross and come after me, cannot be my disciple!” (Lk 14: 26-27)

The Gospel begins with the statement that “Great multitudes accompanied Jesus…” (Lk 14:25)

The multitude – crowds of people – probably had various intentions of following Jesus

Some to receive healing and be touched by Him (Lk 6:19)
Some to hear the Good News and to follow Him (Lk 5:11)
Some to simply eat the bread (food) that the Lord provided (Lk 9:17)
Some to satisfy their curiosity and fascination (Lk 4:22)
Some to question Who He was and What was His motive (Lk 7:18-19)

Whatever be the intention of the crowds, the Lord was clear in whom He wanted as His followers:

Those who give the highest priority in life to the Lord
Those who would take up their cross

Those who are willing to give up everything, for the sake of the Lord

Towards this end, Jesus cites two parables which would make every disciple of Jesus question their authenticity of following Him
a. The Parable of the one desiring to build the tower (Lk 14:28-30)

Are you willing to count how much it will cost you, to follow Jesus?

b. The Parable of the king who wanted to wage war (Lk 14:31-32)

Are you willing to calculate the risks that are involved, to follow Jesus?

This is a serious challenge that is placed before all Christians, who profess to follow Christ…
… and also to all those, who in ministry, seek to attract disciples for Christ!

Have I “counted the cost” and “calculated the risks” to know, that following Jesus means…

… not to simply run behind miracles and wonders; rather also involves living as Jesus did – in poverty, obedience and purity of heart!

… not just having a Christian name and fulfiling basic duties; but also implies to give the highest priority to the Lord and His Kingdom values, in all what we do!

… not merely reciting prayers and raising hymns of praise; but also infers at reaching out to the poor and needy in self-giving and doing everything for the Glory of God!

A Filtration Process is a must for every follower of Christ.

All of us, surely have our weaknesses and tendencies to be attracted to worldly ways

We very often, even have the goodwill to truly follow Jesus…

However, because of…
… lack of strong motivation
… ignorance and lack of people who can guide us
… various discouraging and deterring incidents and scandals

We fail to truly Follow Jesus.

We, the FEED, need to offer our lives to Jesus…
… and allow ourselves to pass through Our Crucified Lord – Who is our FILTER!

He will cleanse us to make us pure
He will strengthen us with proper motivation
He will nourish us with courage and passion to be bold and faithful

And thus, we will be able to live as the proper FILTRATE – a disciple of Christ…
… living in holiness and with a sense of mission to bring all people to the Love of Christ.

Are we willing to be “Filtered?”

God Bless! Live Jesus!

---

📖 Discovering the beauty of the Catholic Church through the Catechism
THE LITURGICAL CELEBRATION OF THE EUCHARIST – The movement of the celebration

All gather together. Christians come together in one place for the Eucharistic assembly.
At its head is Christ himself, the principal agent of the Eucharist.
He is high priest of the New Covenant; it is he himself who presides invisibly over every Eucharistic celebration.

It is in representing him that the bishop or priest acting in the person of Christ the head (in persona Christi capitis) presides over the assembly, speaks after the readings, receives the offerings, and says the Eucharistic Prayer. (CCC #1348)

“Being willing to be ‘filtered’ and living in holiness, with a sense of mission to bring all people to the Love of Christ!”

(Based on Wis 9:13-18b, Philem 9-10,12-17 and Lk 14:25-33 – 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time, Cycle C)

Filtration is a process by which any material is passed through a certain device to remove unwanted elements in it.

Filtration happens every day around the world.
>> It occurs both in nature and in engineered systems.

For example…
… in many living bodies (including humans), renal filtration removes wastes from the blood
… in water treatment and sewage treatment, undesirable elements are removed by absorption into a filter medium


Every filtration has three basic components:

1. The Feed: The original material with the presence of unwanted elements
2. The Filter: The mechanism/device that does the cleansing
3. The Filtrate: The matter that comes after the process


Our Life as a Christian is also a “process of filtration”

And has three components as well
1. The Feed: Our lives – with our own weaknesses and sinful tendencies
2. The Filter: Jesus, the Crucified Lord – Who Cleanses us
3. The Filtrate: Our life as a Disciple of Christ – lived in holiness and with a sense of mission

Are we willing to allow the “FEED” of our lives to encounter the “FILTER”…
… so that we can emerge as pure and holy “FILTRATE?”


The Gospel of the Day is this exhortation of the Lord to all who seek to follow Him:
“If any one comes to me and does not hate his own father and mother and wife and children and brothers and sisters…
… yes, and even his own life, cannot be my disciple!
>>
Whoever does not bear his own cross and come after me, cannot be my disciple!” (Lk 14: 26-27)


The Gospel begins with the statement that “Great multitudes accompanied Jesus…” (Lk 14:25)

The multitude – crowds of people – probably had various intentions of following Jesus
>> Some to receive healing and be touched by Him (Lk 6:19)
>> Some to hear the Good News and to follow Him (Lk 5:11)
>> Some to simply eat the bread (food) that the Lord provided (Lk 9:17)
>> Some to satisfy their curiosity and fascination (Lk 4:22)
>> Some to question Who He was and What was His motive (Lk 7:18-19)


Whatever be the intention of the crowds, the Lord was clear in whom He wanted as His followers:
>> Those who give the highest priority in life to the Lord
>>Those who would take up their cross
>>>Those who are willing to give up everything, for the sake of the Lord


Towards this end, Jesus cites two parables which would make every disciple of Jesus question their authenticity of following Him
a. The Parable of the one desiring to build the tower (Lk 14:28-30)
>> Are you willing to count how much it will cost you, to follow Jesus?

b. The Parable of the king who wanted to wage war (Lk 14:31-32)
>> Are you willing to calculate the risks that are involved, to follow Jesus?


This is a serious challenge that is placed before all Christians, who profess to follow Christ…
… and also to all those, who in ministry, seek to attract disciples for Christ!

Have I “counted the cost” and “calculated the risks” to know, that following Jesus means…

… not to simply run behind miracles and wonders; rather also involves living as Jesus did – in poverty, obedience and purity of heart!

… not just having a Christian name and fulfiling basic duties; but also implies to give the highest priority to the Lord and His Kingdom values, in all what we do!

… not merely reciting prayers and raising hymns of praise; but also infers at reaching out to the poor and needy in self-giving and doing everything for the Glory of God!


A Filtration Process is a must for every follower of Christ.

All of us, surely have our weaknesses and tendencies to be attracted to worldly ways
>> We very often, even have the goodwill to truly follow Jesus…

However, because of…
… lack of strong motivation
… ignorance and lack of people who can guide us
… various discouraging and deterring incidents and scandals
>> We fail to truly Follow Jesus.


We, the FEED, need to offer our lives to Jesus…
… and allow ourselves to pass through Our Crucified Lord – Who is our FILTER!

>> He will cleanse us to make us pure
>> He will strengthen us with proper motivation
>> He will nourish us with courage and passion to be bold and faithful

And thus, we will be able to live as the proper FILTRATE – a disciple of Christ…
… living in holiness and with a sense of mission to bring all people to the Love of Christ.


Are we willing to be “Filtered?”


God Bless! Live Jesus!


——————————————
📖 Discovering the beauty of the Catholic Church through the Catechism
THE LITURGICAL CELEBRATION OF THE EUCHARIST – The movement of the celebration
>> All gather together. Christians come together in one place for the Eucharistic assembly.
>> At its head is Christ himself, the principal agent of the Eucharist.
>> He is high priest of the New Covenant; it is he himself who presides invisibly over every Eucharistic celebration.
>> It is in representing him that the bishop or priest acting in the person of Christ the head (in persona Christi capitis) presides over the assembly, speaks after the readings, receives the offerings, and says the Eucharistic Prayer. (CCC #1348)
—————————————-

“Seeking the Grace to uncover many “Diamond Vases” contained in the Holy Scripture, by wiping off the dusts of ignorance and indifference!”

(Based on 1 Cor 4:6b-15 and Lk 6;1-5 – Saturday of the 22nd Week in Ordinary Time, Year 2)

The story goes of a large castle which lay abandoned for a large number of years.

Being considered haunted or jinxed, it failed to have buyers.

But a young man, without giving heed to any of those fears, purchased it.

The castle had a large attic, with a huge number of things being dumped in it.

The man decided to take up the task of cleaning this attic.

While cleaning, the man found, in the corner of the attic, a very old vase, fully covered with dust!

Taking it in his hands, as he began to wipe it with a cloth, the man discovered that it was a priceless item that he was holding on!

It was a Diamond Vase!

Unnoticed, uncared and undiscovered…
… the Diamond Vase, on being dusted, became a priceless “bonus” for that man.

How often in our lives, we too have many such “Diamond Vases” – unnoticed, uncared and undiscovered.

It’s highly essential that time and again, we dust off the “unnoticed, uncared and undiscovered” entities in life, to discover their preciousness!

One of such “Diamond Vases” are the precious and timeless truths that can be discovered from the Holy Bible.

Today we shall attempt to “wipe off” the dust from a precious teaching – the Sabbath – to reveal its greater implications in our life and to discover its preciousness!

The Gospel of the day is another Sabbath controversy.

While going through the grain-fields, the disciples of Jesus plucked and ate some of the heads of grain (Lk 6: 1)

But this supposedly forbidden “act of work” was “caught” by the Law Policemen – the Pharisees.

Probably, the disciples had not thought of the fact that they were now enjoying the status of being “special celebrities” – since they were the close associates of the Rising mega-star – Jesus!

And mega-stars and special celebrities always get followed, isn’t it?

Each of their movement is followed

Each of their talk is taped!

Thus, Jesus and His disciples also found themselves being followed and observed, in all their actions and talks!

The point of contention was the Sabbath Rule – which as per the Pharisees…
… rendered the “work of the disciples” – plucking and eating the heads of grain – as being unlawful and therefore, culpable!

When we seek to trace the the original purpose of “Sabbath”, we could consider a couple of aspects:

1. The “Law” of Sabbath at Creation

If Sabbath can be considered as a “Law”, then it goes to say without doubt that the Law of Sabbath was a “principle of creation” itself.

Gen 2: 3: “So God blessed the seventh day and made it holy, because on it, He rested from all the work he had done in creation”

This “Law” of Sabbath therefore, even precedes the Mosaic Law!

It is very interesting to note the pattern of creation that is mentioned in the Book of Genesis.

The Creation is mentioned as happening on a 7-day format.

It can be observed that on all the 6 days, it is mentioned, “evening came and morning followed” (Gen 1:5b, 1: 8b, 1:13, 1: 19, 1: 23, 1: 21b)
The phrase or the usage, “Evening came and morning followed” refers to the completing of a day.

But the 7th day doesn’t have this mention!

What is this pointing towards…?

The 7th day is not complete… it is being continued.

It is unending… i.e. Everlasting!

Therefore, the 7th Day… the Day on which God “rested” is being continued…. into eternity!

So when God calls to “rest” on a Sabbath day, it could be a reference and a reminder to enter “a rest into eternity!”

That’s wonderful, isn’t it?

The Sabbath becomes a reminder that we are created to “enter into a rest with God” which is eternal and unending!
The Sabbath becomes a prefiguration of eternal life – the purpose of all our works and activities!

Can we cultivate this understanding so as to have a stricter observance of the Sabbath Rule?

Every time we faithfully keep the Sabbath Law….
… we express our willingness to God saying: ” Yes Lord, I am readying myself for the Eternal Rest that you are promising me”!
… we display our eagerness to God saying: “Yes Lord, I am constantly preparing myself to enjoy an Eternal bliss with You!”

2. The Law of Sabbath in the Mosaic Law

The Book of Deuteronomy explicates this Sabbath Law:
“Observe the Sabbath day, to keep it holy, as the Lord your God commanded you. Six days you shall labour and do all your work, but the seventh day is a Sabbath to the Lord your God….
… You shall remember that you were a slave in the land of Egypt, and the Lord your God brought you out from there with a mighty hand and an outstretched arm.

Therefore the Lord your God commanded you to keep the Sabbath day.” (Dt 5: 12-15)

The Sabbath Law in the Mosaic Law was a reminder that God was their Rescuer from the land of slavery and therefore, He was their God and they, His people.

Can we also cultivate this understanding so as to have a stricter observance of the Sabbath Rule?

Every time we faithfully keep the Sabbath Law….
… we are reminded that we were also once, slaves – to sin.

But our Blessed Lord, has rescued us from slavery and wishes that we deepen our love, commitment and faithfulness to Him, Our Saviour!
… we are exhorted that it is very much possible that we can become slaves again – maybe to sinful tendencies, to money, to power, to position, to various vices etc.

But with constant examination of oneself and a renewing of one’s dedication and pledge to God, we can remain as His own people.

Knowingly or unknowingly, we have sometimes failed to keep the Sabbath Law or perhaps, failed to attach any special importance to it…

The Sabbath Day, sometimes, becomes…
… just another “ordinary” day for us
… a day to indulge in laziness and lethargy
… a day to complete pending works and even ending up doing extra works!

But can we grow beyond such practices and seek to restore the original intents of the Sabbath.

A faithful and dutiful keeping of the Sabbath Law is a vital expression of we, as Christians, being a distinct people – chosen to lead all others towards the Love of God!

May we seek the Grace to uncover many more “Diamond Vases” contained in the Holy Scripture, by wiping off the dusts of ignorance and indifference!

God Bless! Live Jesus!

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📖 Discovering the beauty of the Catholic Church through the Catechism
THE LITURGICAL CELEBRATION OF THE EUCHARIST – The Mass of all ages

Is this not the same movement as the Paschal meal of the risen Jesus with His disciples?

Walking with them, He explained the Scriptures to them; sitting with them at table “He took bread, blessed and broke it, and gave it to them.” (CCC #1347)

“Daring to imitate our Blessed Lord in ‘washing the windows’ in order to clear the view for a cleaner, fresher and brighter practising of our faith!”

(Based on 1 Cor 4:1-5 and Lk 5:33-39 – Friday of the 22nd Week in Ordinary Time, Year 2)

John Wanamaker was an American merchant and a religious and civic leader.

He is considered by some, to be the proponent of advertising and a “pioneer in marketing”.

Once, a neat and handsome young man, applied to John Wanamaker for a job.

This young fellow was told that there was no job for him.
But the young man persisted, “I am willing to take up any work!”

With a view to get rid of him, Mr Wanamaker said, “The only job I have is the job of washing windows”
“Yes, I am willing” said the enthusiastic young man!

He washed those windows as they never had been.
He also showed a great sense of responsibility.

Within a short period, he became the manager of the store.

When this man died, after a splendid service of nearly two decades, Mr Wanamaker said:
“I am willing to pay as high as one hundred thousand dollars for a manager, who can fill the place of the one I lost!”

The young man’s willingness and his committed act of “washing the windows” brought about a change of mentality and won accolades galore!

Today, perhaps, the Church is in a great need for people who are willing to “wash the windows” for the sake of the Kingdom…
… windows which are sometimes dirtied with the dust of ritualism, legalism and relativism
… windows which are sometimes tainted with the stains of corruption, scandals and misconduct
… windows which are sometimes splattered with the blemishes of indifference, injustice and inactions

The Gospel of the day presents Jesus who courageously dares to “wash the windows”, in order to clear away the dust of legal fanaticism, religious rigidity and spiritual gloominess!

The passage in consideration (Lk 5: 33-39) begins with an interrogative complaint by the Pharisees and Scribes…
… on why His disciples ‘ate and drank’ whereas the disciples of John the Baptist as well as the Pharisees fasted often and offered prayers (Lk 5: 33)

The immediate context of this passage is the Call of Levi, the tax collector and the grand party hosted by him, in honour of Jesus (Lk 5: 27-32)

Jesus, later on, in His ministry would say, “There is more rejoicing over one sinner who repents and returns to God, than over ninety-nine righteous persons, who need no repentance” (Lk 15:7)

Levi, the tax-collector was called by Jesus to follow Him – an occasion of a “lost sheep” returning back to the arms of the Shepherd!

It was a moment of great joy and happiness!
It was a moment of leaving the old self behind and embracing the newness of Christ!
It was a moment of immersing oneself in the new life in Christ and being ‘drunk’ with His love!

In this context, when the religious leaders questioned Jesus on why were His disciples into “eating and drinking” unlike the disciples of John the Baptist and Pharisees, who were into rigorous fasting and prayer…
… Jesus gives a fitting reply using three imageries:

1. The imagery of the wedding guests feasting, when the Bridegroom is with them (Lk 5: 34-35)
   It pointed to the “moments of great joy and happiness, that is experienced” when one recognises Jesus as the bridegroom – the True Love of one’s life and the Primary Purpose of one’s existence (Gal 2: 20)!
2. The imagery of the patched garments (Lk 5: 36)
   It pointed to the “moments of leaving the old self behind and embracing the newness of Christ”, and putting on the New and Festal Garment of Christ (Gal 3: 27)
3. The imagery of the wine and wineskin (Lk 5: 37-39)
   It pointed to the “moments of immersing oneself in the new life in Christ and being ‘drunk’ with His love,” and cherishing the experience of discovering the Lord as the true and only source and foundation of happiness in life (1 Cor 3: 11).

In short, our Blessed Lord was pointing to a renewed perspective in one’s relationship with God…

Doing away with “legal fanaticism” that cripples one’s life with mere external following of rituals and rubrics
… and instead to discover the real meaning and purpose of one’s actions of piety and religiosity!

Doing away with “religious rigidity” that steals away any spontaneity and openness in one’s life of faith…
.. and instead to unearth the freedom that often lies buried, and to relate without any inhibitions with one’s Loving Creator!

Doing away with “spiritual gloominess” that casts a dark and ugly veil on one’s practices of spirituality…
… and instead to unwrap the gifts of happiness, trust and genuine bliss that is constantly bestowed by God!

Our practise of faith and spirituality certainly is in a constant need of a “cleaning up!”

Our understanding and perspectives on religion is in ever need of “sprucing up!”

Else, it can very easily happen, that..
… religion turns out to be a farce
… practices of piety fail to touch and inspire lives
… acts of charity turn out to be hypocritical gestures

Let us dare to imitate our Blessed Lord in “washing the windows,” to clear the view for a cleaner, fresher and brighter practising of our faith!

God Bless! Live Jesus!

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📖 Discovering the beauty of the Catholic Church through the Catechism
THE LITURGICAL CELEBRATION OF THE EUCHARIST – The Mass of all ages

The liturgy of the Eucharist unfolds according to a fundamental structure which has been preserved throughout the centuries down to our own day.
It displays two great parts that form a fundamental unity:

• the gathering, the liturgy of the Word, with readings, homily and general intercessions;
• the liturgy of the Eucharist, with the presentation of the bread and wine, the consecratory thanksgiving, and communion.

The liturgy of the Word and liturgy of the Eucharist together form “one single act of worship”; the Eucharistic table set for us is the table both of the Word of God and of the Body of the Lord. (CCC #1346)

“Leaving behind everything and following the Lord!”

(Based on 1 Cor 3:18-23 and Lk 5:1-11 – Thursday of the 22nd Week in Ordinary Time, Year 2)

“Would you like to come along with me, for a short walk along the sea?

We could share some of our experiences of life…
… that would probably help us to live better!”

These are the words of Simon Peter, the Apostle of Jesus.

Saying a “Yes” to this invitation…
… let us now stroll along with Simon Peter, as he recounts, in first person, his experiences…

“Ah, so there you, my friend!
I am so happy that you have accepted my invitation.

Uh… by the way, be careful, as we walk along the sea…
…. ‘cos there might be some rough stones and thorny bushes.

Just mind your steps, as we walk along.

So, where shall I begin with?

Hmm… I guess I shall begin with my beginning itself…
… my beginnings with the Lord!

Let me start by saying that nothing much about my life before I encountered the Lord, is known to others.

But that itself, I feel, is a point of great reflection…
That unless we come to the Lord, our life is mere existence…
… nothing noteworthy, nothing special, nothing significant!

Only when we are in the Lord…
… do we have a meaning and purpose in life!

Only when we are in the Lord…
… can we say that our lives have a destination and a goal!

How I wish that many more discover Jesus as the purpose and objective of one’s life!

How I pray that followers of Christ may have more zeal to bring many to the love of Christ!

So continuing with my story – of my beginnings in the Lord…

How very fresh is the memory of that golden day in my life!
… The day the Lord came to me and called me to be His “fisher of men” (as we would read in the Gospel of my friend St Luke 5: 10)

My friend St Luke, told you in his Gospel narrative, 4:38-39, that my mother-in-law was healed of a severe fever.

This incident had brought great joy and hope to our family.

Somehow, (I probably guess so… though am not fully sure!)…
… that miracle had also sparked a sense of interest and liking in me, towards that Great Rabbi, Jesus!

He was already moving across streets in villages and towns bringing much healing and hope

He was also revealing God as a Father… as One Who was much closer and lovable and friendlier, than many of us traditional Jews had thought!

But the experience of that glorious day still lingers in my mind…
… so fresh… so gracious!

My Master had his large crowd of fans gathered around him.

It was such a privilege that my boat was used by the Master to stand and preach to the crowds!

Yeah, my simple boat became His Great Instrument of Evangelization!
… You can call it as the story of “Pauper Peter’s Plank transformed into the Precious Preacher’s Pulpit!”

After the great round of boldly proclaiming the Word of God…
… it was time for the Word to touch me!

The Master, with His powerful words reached out to me, “Put out into the deeper water and lower your nets for a catch!”

But of course, all of you do know that I am a very instinctual and impulsive man!

The “expert” in me protested and said, “We have worked the whole night and caught nothing!”

But this is where the Master “caught me”

That was the bait, by which I, the little fish, would be hooked by the Great Fisherman of Galilee!

I thought I knew everything about the seas… about fishing…!

But the Lord, the Creator of all…
… sliced through my inner being and exposed my weakness!

The miraculous catch of fish that followed was a lesson in humility and obedience!

I thought I knew everything… only to realize, that “human knowledge is foolishness before God’s Wisdom”

I felt I was an expert in my area of activity…
… only to realize that “human minds have to always bend before the One Who has shaped and created this entire universe!”

And so I cried out…”Depart from me, Lord! I am a sinful man!”

That was the beginning, of the end…
… the end of my pride
… the end of wanting “my way”

For it was also the beginning…
… of a new way of life for me!

Yes, God’s Mercy had touched me!
… and His Mercy had sparked me in a new vocation – the vocation to be “fishers of men!”

His Mercy would continue to accompany me, all through my life…
…. in times when I would act impulsively as the leader of the group
… in times when I would go on to betray my Master
… in times, when I would once again be called to follow the Lord after His Resurrection
… in times, when I would be instilled with hope to continue as His Vicar on the earth!

And so I strongly believe in this statement: “Mercy is the source and the strength of every vocation!”

Be it any vocation: Family life…. Consecrated Life…. Priestly Life… Celibate life…

Have you discovered the meaning and depth of this statement?

Check into your lives and see…
… so many are the acts of mercy of God in your life
… so many are the ways in which the Mercy of God has led you through

Perhaps, many times, you are not aware… many times, you have taken it for granted!

But look deeper… and surely you will find: Your life is a living witness of God’s Mercy!

And so, become aware that “Mercy is the source and the strength of every vocation!”

Hmmm… Are you still with me?

I guess, I do talk a lot, right?

Well, as you see, I do have tears in my eyes now… (tears of joy, of course!)
… and this would be the joy you too experience, when your life is touched by the Mercy of God

And you give yourself, entirely to Jesus, the Great Fisherman of Galilee…and my Hero!

Are you willing to leave everything and follow Him…
… just as I did?”

God Bless! Live Jesus!

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📖 Discovering the beauty of the Catholic Church through the Catechism
THE EUCHARIST IN THE ECONOMY OF SALVATION – “Do this in memory of me”

As early as the second century we have the witness of St. Justin Martyr for the basic lines of the order of the Eucharistic celebration.

They have stayed the same until our own day for all the great liturgical families. (CCC #1345)

“Imitating our ‘Enthusiastic’ Master, and spreading the love of the Lord to all!”

(Based on 1 Cor 3:1-9 and Lk 4:38-44 – Wednesday of the 22nd Week in Ordinary Time, Year 2)

“Enthusiasm” is a very remarkable word.
This word, “enthusiasm” is derived from two Greek words:
“en” meaning IN “theos” meaning GOD
So the word “enthusiasm” literally means, being IN GOD!

Therefore, technically speaking…

One who is “enthusiastic” is the one who is possessed by God and is passionate about His works
One who is “enthusiastic” is the one who is deeply involved in the concerns of God and is zealous for Him

The Gospel of the Day is a classic exhibition of our Blessed Lord who displays a lot of “enthusiasm” in His Mission and ministry.

The Gospel of Luke, Chapter 4, verses 31 onwards is a description of the activities of a day in the life of Jesus.
This was a Sabbath day.

And it is being a very long day for the Lord…

The day began with Jesus teaching in the synagogue (Lk 4: 31-32)

Amazement and astonishment had filled all those who listened to Him

Then, He cured a man with a spirit of an unclean demon (Lk 4: 33-37)

Authority and Power was on display to all those who encountered this healing

Then, He goes to the house of Simon Peter and heals his mother-in-law (Lk 4: 38-39)

Personal affection and interest was extended to the chosen disciple of the Lord

Later, at sunset, He heals the various sick and suffering who are brought to Him (Lk 4: 40-41)

Immense compassion and mercy is offered to those in need

Finally, at daybreak, He moves off to a deserted place and proceeds to preach in the other towns (Lk 4: 42-43)

Unmatched dedication and commitment for the mission is exhibited by the Lord

One of the outstanding features that is noticed in our Blessed Lord is His absolutely tremendous level of “enthusiasm”.

Nothing seemed to tire the Lord.
Nothing seemed to deter Him in His works
Nothing seemed to fluctuate Him in His focus.

The reason for this was that He was Enthusiastic – “In God” (and of course, He is GOD Himself!)

Chapter 4 of St Luke had begun with Jesus affirming, “The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me…” (Lk 4: 18)

It was this “being in the Spirit” that was the recipe to our Blessed Lord being constantly “on the move” – in Mission with Enthusiasm!

His Presence brought about a wave of happiness and hope

His Words helped people to find new meaning and purpose in life
His Works enabled people to find acceptance and forgiveness in life

Is my life and the activities that I engage in, also “filled with enthusiasm?”

Am I able to live my life in joy and happiness, knowing that I have a God who is deeply in love with me, and takes care of my every need and knows my every movement?
Am I able to trust the Lord, especially in moments of crises and calamities, and be a beacon of hope in the darkness of tragedies and be an agent of encouragement in the thick of hopelessness?

Our Christian Faith gives us so many reasons to be joyful – to be thankful and to be “enthusiastic”

When I am “in the Lord”…
… I can always radiate joy
… I can always share love
… I can always spread hope

Let us imitate our “Enthusiastic” Master, so that every moment of our day can become…
… an opportunity to share a joyful smile and a cheerful word to a sad and gloomy soul!
… an occasion to extend the healing hand of compassion and service to those who are in need!
… an opening to spread the love of the Lord and to bring people closer to His Gentle and Merciful Heart!

God Bless! Live Jesus!

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📖 Discovering the beauty of the Catholic Church through the Catechism
THE EUCHARIST IN THE ECONOMY OF SALVATION – “Do this in memory of me”

From celebration to celebration, as they proclaim the Paschal mystery of Jesus “until he comes,”…

… the pilgrim People of God advances,” following the narrow way of the cross,” toward the heavenly banquet, when all the elect will be seated at the table of the kingdom. (CCC #1344)

“Shine forth, in brightness and holiness, radiating the Authoritative Presence of Christ to all!”

(Based on 1 Cor 2:10-16 and Lk 4:31-37 – Tuesday of the 22nd Week in Ordinary Time, Year 2)

Napoleon Bonaparte was a French military and political leader who rose into prominence during the French Revolution.

In a short span of time, he had gained prominent control of the Continental Europe.

Once, while discussing and planning his strategies, with his staff officers, he spread a large map of the world on the table before him.

Then he put his finger on a kingdom which was coloured red and told them, “If it were not for this red spot, I could conquer the whole world!”

That red spot was the British Isles.

(The British Isles were identified with the colour ‘red’ derived from its prominence in their flag.

They were the only force, which Napolean felt, was preventing his plans to capture the entire world)

Probably, in the similar manner, Satan, while discussing and planning his strategies, would spread the large map of the universe.

Then, He would put his finger on a place which was coloured red and told them, “If it were not for this red spot, I could conquer the whole universe!”

That red spot is the Blood of our Blessed Saviour, shed on the Cross at Calvary!

Yes, Satan trembles at the glorious presence of our Blessed Lord.

Evil cannot stand Holiness!
Wickedness cannot tolerate Goodness!

The Gospel of the Day presents this expression and dread of the evil one, who is unable to bear the presence of the Divine Saviour.

The Gospel Passage is the incident of the curing of the demoniac (Lk 4: 31-37).

The preceding passage (Lk 4: 1-30) described the dramatic inauguration of the public ministry of Jesus in His home-town, Nazareth.
… Initially, there was a lot of amazement, wonder and awe that was expressed by the people
… But when the Lord, began to explicate His Mission, especially of being a Saviour of all the nations, there was a change in attitude of the people
… The shift from a “goody-goody” expectation of the Messiah to a “challenging” presence, caused them discomfort, and they began to express their anger and infuriation, by seeking to even kill the Lord

But the Spirit-filled Jesus had no stopping…

Nothing could stop Him from continuing His Mission and the Duty entrusted to Him

And so, the Gospel says, “He went down to Capernaum, a city of Galilee. And He was teaching on the Sabbath” (Lk 4: 31)

As the quote goes, “This is the kind of stuff, champions are made of!”

He was…
… determined in His dedication
… committed to His cause
… purposeful in His programme

Can we also imitate our Blessed Lord in this unswerving fidelity…

Oppositions may rock our life…
Crises may strangle our hopes…

But can I still continue to hold on to being Faithful to the Gospel and to the ways of the Lord?

This requires the tremendous infilling and a constant seeking and doing of God’s Will in our lives.

It was this purposiveness that enabled Jesus to be a person of authority and evoke astonishment and amazement from His hearers: “They were astonished at His teaching, for His Word was with authority” (Lk 31b-32)

Therefore, when the man who was possessed by the evil spirit, encountered Jesus, “he cried out with a loud voice, ‘Ah! What have you to do with us, Jesus of Nazareth? Have you come to destroy us?” (Lk 4: 34)

Yes, Satan trembles at the glorious presence of our Blessed Lord.

Evil cannot stand Holiness!
Wickedness cannot tolerate Goodness!

As followers of our Blessed Lord, we too are called upon to become “people of authority and holiness”

Can I seek to grow deeper in my relationship with the Lord…
… so that my Spirit-filled presence will cause the demons of “filthiness, lust, corruption and injustice” to tremble and be cast away?

Can I make efforts to co-operate still more with the Grace of the Lord…
… so that my life-in-Jesus, will cause the demons of “wickedness, indifference, hatred and pride” to shiver and be chased away?

There is a beautiful hymn, known to many of us, “Are you washed, in the blood of the Lamb?”
When we are washed clean by the blood of the Lamb, we have the power to stand before the forces of evil When we are purified by the cleansing might of the blood of Christ, we have the grace to challenge the pressures of Satan

May our lives, washed in the Blood of our Blessed Lord, be a “red spot” which would distort every wicked plan of Satan to conquer this world…
… and may we shine forth, in brightness and holiness, radiating the Authoritative Presence of Christ to all!

God Bless! Live Jesus!

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📖 Discovering the beauty of the Catholic Church through the Catechism
THE EUCHARIST IN THE ECONOMY OF SALVATION – “Do this in memory of me”

It was above all on “the first day of the week,” Sunday, the day of Jesus’ resurrection, that the Christians met “to break bread.”
From that time on down to our own day the celebration of the Eucharist has been continued so that today we encounter it everywhere in the Church with the same fundamental structure.
It remains the center of the Church’s life. (CCC #1343).