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30 Nov ( Feast of St Andrew, the Apostle)

Fr Jijo Manjackal MSFS1 Comment

“I command you for the last time…. make your sacrifice to our gods” yelled Aegeas, the pagan judge.

“Certainly no!” was the reply back, “I sacrifice daily to The Almighty God, the one and true God.
Not the flesh of oxen and the blood of goats do I offer, but the unspotted Lamb upon the altar.

All the faithful partake of His flesh, yet the Lamb remains unharmed and living!”

Exceedingly angered by that adamant refusal, the judge commanded the rebel to be thrown into prison.

The supporters of the rebel, who stood outside the judging quarters, raised an uproar to free him.

But the one who was punished, personally calmed the mob, and earnestly pleaded with them to desist, as he was hastening towards an ardently desired crown of martyrdom.

When he was led to the place of martyrdom, on beholding the cross from far, he cried out:

“O Good Cross… so long desired and now set up for my longing soul, I confidently, with rejoicing come to you!

Exultingly receive me, a disciple of Him who hung on you.”

>> Within a few moments, he was tied to the cross – an X-shaped Cross!

For two days, he hung there.. alive… unceasingly proclaiming the Teachings of Christ, until he passed on to Him, whose likeness in death, he so ardently desired!

This brave martyr of Christ was St Andrew, the Apostle of Jesus, whose feast we celebrate today.

A few years back, this valiant martyr, St Andrew, had received the call of the Lord, “Follow me and I will make you fishers of men” (Mt 4: 19)

The name “Andrew” in Greek means “manly” or “a person of valour”.

St Andrew was from Bethsaida, in Galilee.
>> He was a fisherman, by trade and a former disciple of John the Baptist.

St Andrew is said to have been martyred at Patras in southern Greece on a cross which was in the shape of an “X”.
>>This type of cross has long been known as “St.  Andrew’s cross.”
>> This St Andrew’s Cross, is depicted, on the national flag of Scotland.

One of the wonderful things that we learn from St Andrew is his wonderful quality of being a “Introducer to Christ”, as seen in the various instances of the Gospel

1. It was St Andrew who “introduced to Christ”, his brother Peter (Jn 1: 40-42)

>> “We have found the Messiah” (Jn 1:41) were the words with which he introduced Jesus to his brother

2. It was St Andrew who “introduced to Christ”, the little boy with the five loaves and two fish, which would be later, multiplied for five thousand men! (Jn 6: 5-13)

>> “There is a little boy, who has five barley loaves and two fish…” (Jn 6:9) were the words with which he introduced Jesus to the little boy

3. It was St Andrew who “introduced to Christ” the Greeks who had come up to worship at the feast, at the request of Philip (Jn 12: 20-23)

>> “The hour has come for the Son of Man to be glorified” (Jn 12: 23) were the words with which Jesus reacted when he was introduced to the Greeks.

Thus, we see that St Andrew became an instrument and an active medium of “Introducing to Christ” many people.

As a Christian, this ought to be one great quality and duty that we ought to follow – “Introducing to Christ” many people…like St Andrew.

>> And this can be one of the beautiful practical resolutions, that we can, do, all the 25 days of this Advent Season, in preparation for the Birth of Christ, into our hearts and life – “Introducing to Christ”

How can I take up this task of “Introducing to Christ”?

Many around us long to hear a word of encouragement in their brokenness, receive a word of consolation in their struggles and encounter a smile of hope in their helplessness
>> Can I “Introduce them to Christ” – to His love, to His message of hope, to His treasury of providence?

Many around us have immersed themselves into the murky waters of sin, immorality, injustice and insensitivity to people and nature
>> Can I “Introduce them to Christ” – to His ocean of mercy, to His fountain of justice and to His abundance of warmth?

Many around us have separated themselves and live in isolation – from people in relationships, from the Church and Her teachings, from the responsibilities and duties of their works and the society.
>> Can I “Introduce them to Christ” – to His dimension of wholeness in relations, to His Life-giving Sacraments and to His instruction of being faithful?

St Andrew heard the call of the Lord – “to follow Him”
>> He was touched by His love and was filled with a passion for His Master
>> He was zealous to bring many more to the Love of Jesus
>> He was even willing, to lay down his life, in imitation of his Master, for love of Him

We too, have heard the call of the Lord  – “to follow Him”
>> Are we touched by His love and was filled with a passion for His Master
>> Are we zealous to bring many more to the Love of Jesus
>> Are we also, willing, to lay down our life, in imitation of our Master, for love of Him

May St Andrew intercede for us and inspire us, by his tremendous love for the Master…
…. And may we too, like him, become people who “Introduce many to Christ”!

Happy Feast of St Andrew, the zealous Apostle who “Introduced many to Christ”!

God Bless! Live Jesus!

Nov 29 ( Lk 21:25-28, 34-36)

Fr Jijo Manjackal MSFSLeave a comment

Legends are common and are important to a culture.

A legend is a semi-true story, which has been passed on from person-to-person and has important meaning or symbolism inherent in it.

It usually includes an element of truth, involve heroic characters or based on historic facts, but with ‘mythical qualities’.

One such famous legend is that of King Nero.

In AD 64, a great fire consumed the city of Rome.
>>  For six days & seven nights, the Romans watched helplessly as their city burned..

This historical fact is accompanied by a legend which says that while the city of Rome was burning, its Emperor Nero was very casually busy, playing the fiddle!

It’s from this legend (true or not) that we get the English phrase “To play the fiddle while Rome burns”

>> It means to “do nothing or something trivial while knowing that something disastrous is happening”.

>> It means “to spend time enjoying oneself or doing things that are not important when one should be dealing with a serious problem”

The Gospel of the Day is a strong warning to examine whether we too, as in the legend of Nero, are engaging ourselves “in playing the fiddle, while Rome burns”.

We are on the first day of the Season of Advent.

In the Church, there are six different liturgical seasons…

1. The Season of Advent is a time to become aware of God’s deep faithfulness and preparing our hearts to receive Him more deeply into our lives.

2. The Season of Christmas invites us to experience, thank and cherish the intervention of God in our lives and to grow deeper in the understanding of the ‘Emmanuel God’ – the God Who is with us!

3. The Season of Lent invites us to focus on the reality of sin and make repentance.

4. The Season of Holy Triduum  invites to focus and experience the passion, death and Resurrection of our Blessed Lord

5. The Season of Easter invites us to focus on the mighty power of God through His Resurrection and the New life He promises.

6. The Season of the Ordinary Times invites us to focus on daily life and teachings of Jesus and draw practical conclusions for our life.

>> Advent is a time to become more aware of the presence of the Lord in our lives.

>> Advent is a time to wake up from the slumber of sin to a life of grace and blessing.

>> Advent is a time to shake off the dust of sluggishness and become more zealous and fervent.

The central theme of reading of the Day is Jesus’ warning to each one of us to be alert, watchful and prepared because Christ’s Second Coming can occur at any time.

We are invited to examine ourselves in asking….
>> Am I casually wasting away my life, without giving enough attention to my spiritual life?

>> Am I spending my time enjoying in vain, without paying attention to the higher things of life?

>> Am I dozing off in lethargy and laziness and failing to carry out my Christian responsibilities?

The Gospel of the Day speaks of the various signs that would signal the coming of the Son of Man. (Lk 21: 25-28)

It also gives a strict warning and a hard reminder to be always on the alert and be on the watch.
>> “But take heed…lest that day come upon you suddenly like a snare” (Lk 21: 34-35)

The Greek word used for “snare” is “pagis”.

> ‘Pagis’ comes from the word ‘pegnumi’ which means “a set up or a fix”.

It is a trap (fixed or fastened by a noose or notch) which can fall suddenly  so that wild animals and birds are caught by surprise.
>> And when it is set off there is no time to withdraw and avoid getting caught.

As soon as the prey takes the first bite or the first step, the snare is set off— and before the prey knows what happened, they are caught.

The Lord describes His Second Coming to the World  as this ‘snare’…. giving no time or chance for escape.

Everyone who is caught up with the cares of this life –  the day will come on them like a snare!

This, therefore, calls for alertness and watchfulness at all times.
>>  Our whole life, ought to be drenched in preparation and  vigilance.

But often times, we tend to allow laxity and sloppiness to dominate our lives.

We tend to become people “who play the fiddle, while Rome burns…”
>> Though we sense the fire of sins and transgressions burning in our lives, we play the fiddle of making many excuses and postpone the need to repent.

>> Though we sense the fire of indifference and unconcern burning in our relationships, we play the fiddle of not taking the lead to improve our contacts and slip into more hatred.

>> Though we sense the fire of abuses and corruption burning in our society, we play the fiddle of passing the responsibility onto others and promote those evils by our apathy and lack of concern.

This Season of Advent is a wonderful time to renew our commitment and consecration to the Lord.

The Lord wishes to come into our hearts….
… God will fulfill His promise of coming into us, when we do our part of being watchful and prepared.

As St. Thomas Aquinas says:
“Without God, I can’t. 
Without me, He won’t.”

> Let us become more watchful.
> Let us become more prayerful.

Let us stop “playing the fiddle while Rome burns”;
…  instead let us “be enthusiastic and responsible while (our heavenly) Home calls!”

God Bless! Live Jesus!

28 Nov (Lk 21:34-36)

Fr Jijo Manjackal MSFSLeave a comment

All of us have had the experience of utilizing certain things or products which work quite fine for some time….but as time passes, becomes less effective or less efficient.

> A ceiling fan/ table fan, after few months or years, tends to be less forceful…
> A fast-processing computer after few months of years, tends to slow down…
> Colourful clothes after a few washes or usage, tends to lose their initial glean and shine…

A similar aspect could be visible in our spiritual lives as well!

The Gospel of the Day is a reminder to examine this aspect in our lives and to make amends, in order to revitalise and revive our lives.

The Gospel begins with the verse ” But take heed to yourselves lest your hearts be weighed down with dissipation…”  (Lk 21:34)

Dissipation is strong word which could have several parallel understandings…

>> With respect to morality:
Dissipation refers to an overindulgence in sensual pleasures.

>> With respect to behaviour:
Dissipation refers to a conduct that shows one is interested only in pleasure, money, etc.

>> With respect to economics:
Dissipation refers to an act of using all or a lot of money, time, etc., in a foolish way.

>> With respect to physics:
Dissipation refers to a physical process by which energy becomes not only unavailable but irrecoverable in any form.

Dissipation is a tendency…
… to squander away enthusiasm because of allowing monotony to creep into life.
… to lose vitality as a result of being indulged in continuous immoral behaviours
… to leak-out the energy and vigor in oneself, in small amounts and thus become lifeless
… to become disinterested and dispirited due to constant exposure to luxury and comforts

Dissipation is a terrible malady that has badly affected many people in the Bible…

>> The people during Noah’s time were dissipated with eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage,  although God had sent out a warning of their destruction through Noah.

>> The citizens of Sodom and Gomorrah were dissipated with extremely immoral and corrupt practices, even though  the people were given a forewarning of their possible.

>> The people of Israel were dissipated with frustration and dissatisfaction while travelling in the desert and failed to understand the providential hand of God.

>> The disciples of Jesus were dissipated with sadness, shattering of hopes and brokenness after the death of Jesus and failed to believe and trust in His great promises.

We have a call to examine our lives and check whether we too have fallen into a state of “dissipation”…

>> Maybe my prayer life is “dissipated” due to various distractions, excuses of lack of time, complaints of being tired or just simply a lack of interest…

>> Maybe my personal intimacy with God is “dissipated” since I don’t experience any joyful or experiential feelings or because some of my expectations of God are not met…

>> Maybe my relationships with people is “dissipated” due to some friction or misunderstanding or an indifference that has sneaked in without any particular reason.

>> Maybe my family/community life is “dissipated” because I feel disinterested or not so enthusiastic in going beyond some of my personal comforts or I feel lonely in not feeling accepted or loved.

Dissipation can be a tendency that can steal into our lives very stealthily and can drain away much of our energy, eagerness and passion.

In the book of Revelations, the Lord has this complaint, ” ..I have this against you: you have lost the love you had at first. Realize how far you have fallen. Repent and do the works you did at first” (Rev 2:4-5)

>>> Let us seek to renew our initial fervour and zeal.
>>> Let us challenge ourselves to revive our zest and interest.

The Lord deserves not “dissipated” people, but “spirited” and “passionate” people!

God Bless! Live Jesus!

27 Nov (Lk 21:29-33)

Fr Jijo Manjackal MSFS2 Comments

“Endurance” is the name of an American reality television program.

The contestants of Endurance live in a remote location and participate in various mental and physical challenges.
>> The outcome of the competitions determines which players are eliminated.

The winners receive an all-expenses paid vacation package to an exotic location as the prize.

Christian Life is also a test of Endurance!
Unlike a reality show, it is real life….
… There are various mental, spiritual, emotional and physical challenges

Unlike an-all expenses paid vacation package as a prize…
… the Christian test of Endurance rewards Eternal Life.

Are we ready to rise to the challenge of this Christian Life of Endurance?

In this life of bravery and dare, we have the strength of an Enduring Factor – God’s Word!
“Heaven and earth may pass away, but my words will endure forever” (Lk 21: 33)

The Gospel of the Day is an exhortation to being committed to the Christian Life of Endurance by trusting always in the Enduring Word of God!

Words have immense power and potential.
>> They can cut.
>> They can hurt.
>> They can heal.
>> They can build.
>> They can make.
>> They can break.
>> They can crush.

And God’s Word has ultimate control and infinite power.
>> God’s promises through His Words are forever.

This is clearly manifested when we travel through the pages of the Bible.

>>> Abraham was called to a distant and unknown land.

He was promised descendants as many as the stars of the sky and the sand on the shore.

But nothing worthwhile seemed to be happening…
… God’s word seemed barren and infertile.

Yet, the enduring faith and the enduring trust of Abraham prevailed at the opportune time…
> God’s Word came to fulfillment and great completion

Yes, “Heaven and earth may pass away, but His words will endure forever”

>>> Moses was called to become the liberator of a nation.

He was promised complete guidance and absolute direction from God.

But often during the journey of liberation, Moses had to face the ire of the people…
… God’s word seemed empty and betraying.

Yet, the enduring conviction and the enduring confidence of Moses got him through…
> God’s Word displayed great glory and a mighty witness.

Yes, “Heaven and earth may pass away, but His words will endure forever”

Job was blessed with immense comforts and vast riches.
He was however permitted to be tested by Satan and lost much of his security and wellbeing.

Hopelessness and wrenching despair seemed to be his best companion.

God’s Word seemed to be abandoning and deserting him…
… Yet, the enduring tenacity and the enduring perseverance of Job prevailed to the end…

God’s Word showered him with great and marvellous riches.

Yes, “Heaven and earth may pass away, but His words will endure forever”

What is my faith and trust and hope in God’s Word?

In moments of life-crushing events and soul-hurting situations…
>> Do I endure and trust in the enduring and eternal power of God’s Word?

In times when the asteroids of bad luck crash against the surface of my life…
>> Do I endure and remain firm in the enduring and everlasting strength of God’s Word?

In times when my family, community and my world gets reduced to total splinters…
>> Do I endure and be positive in the enduring and emphatic might of God’s Word?

The Lord has promised each one of us, immense blessings and graces through His Word.

>> At times there are delays in the fulfillment of God’s Word, as in the case of Abraham
>> At times there are frustrations in the following of God’s Word, as in the case of Moses
>> At times there are misunderstandings in the listening of God’s Word, as in the case of Job
But the Lord invites us to remain Faithful, Trusting and Patient!
 

Let us seek to win the Christian test of Endurance by throwing ourselves into the Enduring power of God’s Word!

Yes, “Heaven and earth may pass away, but His words will endure forever”

God Bless! Live Jesus!

26 Nov (Lk 21:20-28)

Fr Jijo Manjackal MSFS2 Comments

Different creatures display different mentalities.

Some of these mentalities are unique.
>> Some can be imitated.
>> Some are to be shunned.

One such mentality is called as the ‘Pig Mentality’! (No offenses in that word please!!)

Thus goes an anecdote of a pig, in a farmhouse, which would feed on the leftovers of food that was supplied to it.

The pig remained content to feed on that which was smelly, dirty and stinking.

The day came when it had to be slaughtered.
>> As the people tied its legs to a pole to be taken to the slaughter-house and the pig was carried horizontally upside down, for the first time in its life, it gazed on the skies above.

All through its life, the pig always looked downward, satisfied on its feed and food.
>> But now, for the first time, the pig looked upward, and saw the beauty of nature.

It wondered:
“All through, I thought, life was always stinky and nasty.
But it’s only now, when I look above, that I see that life is much beautiful and brilliant!
Too late am I! 
I have missed the real beauty of life, looking always only downward!”

The whole life of the pig, was spent downcast, with images of filth and dirt and foul matter.
>> Only the last moments were spent looking upward, enjoying the wonderful & pleasant nature.

This is the pig-mentality…
… Consciously or unconsciously, being content, looking downward & descending into the realms of gloom & pessimism!

Is my life cast downward? Filled with images of gloom, darkness and dirt?

The Lord, through the Gospel of the Day invites us, with strong vibes of positive feelings, “…Stand erect and raise your heads, because your redemption is at hand” (Lk 21: 28)

The Gospel of the day is a continuation of  the talks on the coming of the Son of Man.

Jesus reminds his disciples of the many signs and terrors that will be manifest in the world and persecutions that will befall on His followers.
>> He invites His disciples to remain firm in perseverance and faithful commitment.

The Gospel brings out a clear contradiction in the stance and approach of the “people of the world” and “people who trust in Him”…

>> Lk 21: 26, “…people will die of fright…” (“people of the world”)
>> Lk 21: 28,”…stand erect and raise your heads…” (“people who trust in Him”)

Dying of fright and collapsing is a sign of absolute despair and hopelessness.

When someone is in great tension,  his/her physical structure reflects it…
>> One tends to stoop low…
>> One tends to put down one’s head…

> The worry in the mind makes the face a sorry affair!
> The tension in one’s life robs the spirit of joy in living!

Faces turn pale…smiles go wry… body starts sagging!

But the Lord of the Universe today strongly exhorts us to not remain stooped-down
>> He challenges us to “stand erect and raise our heads…”

The Lord makes people to stand on their feet as a sign of feeling protected and strong…
>> The boy possessed by a demon was “held by the hand, raised up and made to stand” by Jesus (Mk 9:27)

>> Jesus held the hand of the daughter of Jairus and “helped her to stand” (Mk 5:41)

>> Peter and John took up the crippled beggar at the Temple gate “by the hand and raised him up…and he leaped up, stood and walk around…walking and jumping” and praising God (Acts 3: 7-8)

The Lord loves to help people to stand erect and hold heads high in firm faith and trust in Him.

> Is my life today shattered and collapsed? 
> Am I unable to stand firmly in faith and in trust?

When difficulties and problems arise in life…
>> Do I stoop down and get fixated on the worries… or do I “stand erect and raise up my head” in confidence of the Providence of God?

When calamities and unsolvable crises hits my family or community life…
>> Do we stoop down and get lost in despair….or do We “stand erect and raise up our heads” in hope of the Power the Lord?

When hopes get shattered and the future appears very blurred…
>> Do I stoop down and get stuck in hopelessness and desolation… or do I “stand erect and raise up my head” in deep faith in the Guiding Hand of the Lord?

Some of us live our lives with much negativity and pessimism…
>> Life most of the time appears to be dark and depressing and dismal!

But the Lord today asks us to live our lives with more positivity and optimism
>> Life is in fact much more bright and beautiful and brilliant!

Are we going to continue to have a mentality of “looking downward” and losing the precious moments of life?
>> Or shall we, “Stand erect and Raise up our head” in trust, optimism and hope in the Lord ?

God Bless! Live Jesus!

25 Nov (Lk 21:12-19)

Fr Jijo Manjackal MSFS3 Comments

Every joy is accompanied by the companionship of some pain and suffering.
>> This is the reality of life.

Christian life is an affirmation of this reality.
>> The joy of being a Christian is accompanied by the cross of pain and suffering.
>> The delight in sharing Christ’s peace is escorted by the reality of some trials and tribulations.

The Gospel of the Day reminds us of this factor:
>> Experiencing the mighty power of God in the midst of weaknesses of life.
>> Experiencing the splendid joy of God in the thick of persecutions of life.
>> Experiencing the serene peace of God in the middle of terrors of life.

The Lord continues His discourse on the signs of the end times and the forthcoming persecutions that will be the lot of those who believe and follow Him.

Jesus doesn’t tone down in any measure in warning of the future calamities that will befall on His followers:
“They will seize and persecute you… They will hand you over to synagogues and prison…
They will lead you before kings and governors…
You will be handed over by your parents, brothers, relatives and friends…
You will be put to death… You will be hated by all…” (Lk 21: 12-18)

The list of persecutions is too long, right?

>> For those who consider Christianity as an easy stroll in the part, this is a shocker!
>> For those who consider following Christ as comfort on a bed of roses, this is a stunner!

Sometimes our faith in Christ remains merely a statement on paper.

As Baptized people – whether as infants or as adults – we’ve the duty to grow in the grace bestowed on us.

>> To follow Christ is a privilege granted to us.
>> To become His Disciples is a special opportunity conferred on us.

But we often squander away the blessings that the Lord gives us without realizing its worth.

As a Christian and a follower of Christ…
>> We love His blessings….
… but get depressed when pains or sufferings come our way.

>> We crave for joy…
… but get irritated when things don’t go in the way we wish.

>> We seek for a comfortable life…
… but get wild with Him when we lose some luxuries.

The Lord however, invites us to a life of deeper perseverance and courage: “By your perseverance, you will secure your lives” (Lk 21: 19)

For one who believes in Christ…
>> Every sickness, can be a moment to experience the Lord as a Healer.
>> Every financial crisis, can be a moment to experience the Lord as the Provider.
>> Every spiritual struggle, can be a moment to experience the Lord as the Saviour.
>> Every break in relationship, can be a moment to experience the Lord as the Unifier.
>> Every encounter in failure, can be a moment to experience the Lord as the Sovereign Lord
>> Every doubt of the future, can be a moment to experience the Lord as the Supreme Master

All these affirmations will remain peripheral and theoretical, unless we trust in the Lord.
>> Many might say….I don’t believe in a God who allows calamities and persecutions.
>> Many might complain… I don’t want a relation with a God who permits suffering and pains.

But this is where challenge of our Baptismal Consecration comes to fruition…
> To be with the Lord, in total commitment, when the going gets tough.
> To remain united with the Lord, in complete faithfulness, when the road gets bumpy.
> To fix one’s eyes on the Lord, in absolute trust, when the skies are darkened.

In the words of Kahlil Gibran, the writer, “Out of suffering have emerged the strongest souls; the most massive characters are seared with scars”

>> Jesus has shown us the path in the Way of the Cross.
>> Jesus has broken Himself for us in the Holy Eucharist.

> In Him is True Life.
> In Him is Genuine Peace.
> In Him is Everlasting Happiness.

Let us hold firm to our Crucified Lord and persevere in faithfulness to our Persecuted Master.

God Bless! Live Jesus!

24 Nov (Lk 21:5-11)

Fr Jijo Manjackal MSFS1 Comment

>> “God himself cannot sink this ship!”

>> “The captain can, by simply moving an electric switch, instantly close all the doors, practically making the vessel unsinkable”

>> “We believe that the ship is unsinkable.”

These were some of the comments and claims that were made about Titanic – the largest ship in the first half of the 1900’s

But all these proud & arrogant assertions found a watery grave, with the sinking of the Titanic on the morning of 15th April, 1912 killing over one thousand five hundred people.

It was a massive tragedy of the loss of many lives.
>> But it was also a horrific lesson to humankind on the need to be aware of her limitations.
>> It was also a torrid warning to generations on the need to be on the guard, always.

Being on the watch is a necessity and a basic requirement in every sphere of human life!

The Gospel of the Day presents this message of being vigilant and alert in our lives.

Jesus is on the courtyard of the Jerusalem Temple and He hears “some people speaking about how the temple was adorned with costly stones and votive offerings” (Lk 21:5)

The Jerusalem Temple was a magnificent building and one of the wonders of those days.

The Temple had just been marvelously rebuilt by Herod the Great. In all its beauty, the Jerusalem Temple was a vast glittering mass of white marble, touched here & there with gold &  colour and precious stones. 

“Whosoever had not gazed on it”, said the old rabbis, “had not seen the perfection of beauty.”

The historian Tacitus, called this spectacular edifice as “a temple of vast wealth“

Precious gifts such as crowns, shields, vessels of gold and silver were presented by princes and others who visited the holy house.  The Jerusalem Temple was indeed rich in these votive offerings.

With such a grand spectacle and gorgeous building in the background, Jesus makes a prophetic saying, ” All that you see here – the days will come when there will not be left a stone upon another stone that will not be thrown down” (Lk 21:6)

These words would  have come as a big shocker and a tantalizing scandal to His listeners.

>> Who would have thought that the Titanic would ever sink?
>> Who would have thought that the great Twin Towers in America would be in rubble?
>> Who would have thought the British Empire where “the sun never sets” would wane down?

To think of the Jerusalem Temple being totally destroyed was a case next to impossible.
>> The Jerusalem Temple was the holiest shrine of the Jews.
>> The Jerusalem Temple was the pulse and the heartbeat of the Jewish Faith.
>> The Jerusalem Temple was the greatest source of joy and pride for the Jews.

Any attack or any destruction of this Great Edifice of Faith was unimaginable and intolerable.

Yet, Jesus makes this powerful and daring prophecy.

What is the structure and edifice of joy and pride in our lives?

> Is it just a structure of fat bank-balances and transient fame and popularity?
> Is it just a structure of remarkable public positions and  offices of high ranking?
> Is it just a structure of enjoying life with temporary pleasures and passing addictions?

All too often we have heard people saying:
>> “I am enough money & I am happy with my life!
Just enjoy today to the max. Who knows what happens tomorrow?”

>> “The status that I am in today, is a result of my hard-work and labour. Why should anyone interfere in my private life to prevent me from enjoying it in my own style?”

History teaches us that structures built without the power and grace of God is bound to fall.

The Tower of Babel is a classic example from the Bible. (Gen 11: 4-9)
>> Built on human pride and aspiration, it had a catastrophic collapse

The lives of many people are also a lesson for us…. Samson… King Saul… King Solomon… Judas.

They had their moments of great glory and splendour.
>> But when pride and self-interest crept into their lives, they lost the touch of God’s hand!

We may glory and shine in beauty for some time by just banking on our capabilities.
>> But unless, we remain in firm obedience and faithful commitment to the Lord, we are bound to fail!

None of us are, and can be unsinkable!

>> An obstinate stand that I can manage my life by myself is hazardous.
>> A proud feeling that no power in the world can shake me is dangerous.
>> An arrogant outlook that I am the sole master of my future and destiny is perilous.

Yes, let God be God in our lives!
>>  Let Him enthrone the highest place and the privileged position in our lives.

May Jesus, the King of kings and the Lord of lords adorn the Temple of our lives.

>> With Him we can shine forever. 
>> With Him we can stand forever. 
>> With Him we can glory forever.

God Bless! Live Jesus!

23 Nov (Lk 21:1-4)

Fr Jijo Manjackal MSFS1 Comment

A rich business man and his assistant were travelling around a village on a tour.

As they walked along, they saw a boy pulling a plough (= a large farming implement with blades fixed in a frame, drawn over soil to turn it over and cut furrows in preparation for the planting of seeds) which was steered by an old man.

It amused the assistant so much that he insisted on taking a picture of the scene with his little pocket camera. Later he showed the picture to a priest in the next village, remarking about the peculiar spectacle.

“Yes,” said the Priest, “it seems a very strange way to plough a field that way.
But I happen to know the boy and old man well.

They are very poor. However, when the little church was built here in the village, they wanted to contribute something.
>> They had no money.
They had no grain to spare and winter was coming on, so they sold their ox and gave the money to the church building fund, and now, minus the valuable animal, they have to pull the plough themselves.”

The men looked at each other for a moment, then the assistant said, “But what a magnanimous sacrifice! Why did you allow it?”

“They did not feel that way about it” said the priest, “They regarded it as a great joy that they had an ox to give to the Lord’s work!”

Do we have the joy and the generosity to give ourselves, to the Lord and for His works?

Yes,  a true charity happens when there is an involvement of sacrifice and surrender.

The Gospel of the Day demonstrates the powerful message of True Giving, through the incident of the Offering of the Poor Widow.

The passage begins with the verse, “When Jesus looked up and saw…” (Lk 21: 1)

Jesus has sharp eyes…
>> He sees what most people miss to see…
>> He perceives what most people ignore…
>> He observes what most people pass on as ordinary…

While all others saw only the corrupt mind of Zacchaeus, Jesus saw deeper… (Lk 19:7)
>> He observed the flame of genuine repentance and earnest desire in him.

While all others saw only the filth in the woman caught in adultery, Jesus saw deeper…(Jn 8:3)
>> He observed the spark of pleading for mercy and compassion in her.

While all others saw only a disturbance in the blind beggar Bartimaeus, Jesus saw deeper… (Lk 18:39)
>> He observed the flash of true longing and expectant hope in him…

There are many times in our life, when we think or do little things and we would feel them as insignificant.

But the Lord sees deeper…
>> A tiny word of thanks and appreciation…The Lord sees our goodness.
>> A small gesture of timely help and assistance… The Lord sees our nobility.
>> A genuine smile of encouragement and support… The Lord sees our benevolence.

The palace of goodness is built by the tiny bricks of genuine actions and loving thoughts.

And the Lord sees it all – “The eyes of the Lord are in every place, watching the evil and the good” (Prov. 15:3)

He doesn’t miss a single gift, small or large. 
>> He knows every giver, rich and poor. 

This is the significance of being engaged in little and small acts of charity.
>> None of them go down the drain.
Rather, all of them are recorded by God and translates into a fountain of blessings!

The Lord keenly observed the insignificant action of the Poor Widow dropping in two copper coins into the Temple Treasury.

The Temple Treasury was in the Court of the Women, which was on the easternmost part of the Temple.
>> The Court of the Women obtained its name, not from its appropriation to the exclusive use of women, but because they were not allowed to proceed farther, except for sacrificial purposes.

Against the walls of this temple area were the thirteen chests, or ‘trumpets,’ for charitable contributions.

These thirteen chests were shaped like trumpets, narrow at the mouth and wide at the bottom.
>> Each one had a different Hebrew letter designating separate offerings and causes.

Into this Temple Treasury, “the poor widow just drops in two small copper coins”  (Lk 21:2)

What difference did her two coins make toward meeting the temple budget? 
Probably nothing!!

Perhaps the treasurer muttered under his breath as he saw it being dropped:
“Why do people throw such small coins into the treasury?  They’re more a nuisance to count than they’re worth!”

But the Lord has a totally different yardstick of measuring and of judging.

People count worth of  money by what is given.
>> God counts worth of  money by what is left over.

People say “wow” over thicker and fatter amounts given, irrespective of the means and intention.
>> God says “wow” over any amount given, but only when given with the proper means and true intention.

While most people would have sidelined this meager act of giving, the Lord lavishes praise on the poor widow who “gave it all”.

The gifts of the rich would have not cost them much…
…  But the widow may have gone hungry that night because she gave all what she had.

She gave it all, not for any praise or to show-off, but out of love of God and her religion.

What is our attitude in “giving” to God?

Often we give only “leftovers” to God.
>> If we have some food left, after we have relished nicely, we give it off to some hungry
>> If we have anything left, after we’ve spent for all our needs, then we drop a bit for charity. 
>> If we have something left, after we have used and its now old, we donate it to the church. 
>> If we have some “time” left, after engaging in all leisure, then we give the time to God.
>> If we have some goodwill left, after busying with many works, we offer our thanks to the Lord.

The Lord, seriously, is in no need of the offering of our money.
>> But the Lord, very seriously, is on the lookout for an offering of our hearts!

Let us make not just peripheral contribution of our lives, but rather engage in sacrificial offerings of our self.

As Blessed Mother Teresa would say:
“Give, but give until it hurts…
… It’s not how much we give but how much love we put into giving”

The Lord has given everything for us.
As His disciples, we too are expected to be similar: to give everything to Him.

An “all-giving” Master deserves “all-giving” disciples… Doesn’t He?

God Bless! Live Jesus!

22 Nov (Feast of Christ the King)

Fr Jijo Manjackal MSFS2 Comments

All of us would have played or atleast have seen the Playing Cards.

A traditional set of playing cards consists of 52 cards.
>> This deck of 52 cards is divided into 4 suits – Spades, Clubs, Diamonds and Hearts.

Each of the suits have a King – the King of Spades, the King of Clubs, the King of Diamonds and the King of Hearts.

These 52 cards could be compared to the 52 Sundays of a Liturgical year.

Each of these Sundays have been dealt out, and today we are on the Last Sunday.

>> And on this Last Sunday, the last card of the deck is held up – the King of Hearts!

Yes, we are on the Last Sunday of the Liturgical year- the Feast of Christ the King.

This feast is a relatively new feast.
>> It was established by Pope Pius XI in 1925 through an encyclical letter called “Quas Primas” (In the First) .

In the history of the Church, liturgical feasts have been instituted in answer to particular needs that arise in the life of the world & Church.

This Feast of Christ the King was in response to the grave and disturbing situation of the world:

The world in 1925, was still recovering from the devastation effects of the First World War.
>> Nations had been devastated.
>> New weapons and armoury had been introduced.

> A wave of terror and danger was still vivid.
> Modernity had crept into the human mind.

Human reason was considered to have enough power and capability for unlimited progress.
>> Human societies were abandoning Christian values and sought to do away with divine and spiritual dimensions of life.

It’s at a height of this secularization of the world, that we are presented with this great Feast of Christ the King.

> Human progress gives a feeling that humans have absolute power over all forces in the universe.
> Scientific technology makes us think that any discoveries and inventions are humanly possible.
> Human mind is considered to be having capabilities that can overcome and defy any limitation..

But this feast reminds us, that Christ still reigns above all.
>> He is the source of every intelligence and intellect.
>> He is the powerhouse of every discovery and invention.
>> He is the ultimate in conquering any problems or difficulties.

The Kingdom of Christ the King is under several threats today…
>> The forces of materialism and consumerism have clouded the minds of several with riches and pleasures.

>> The forces of sensualism and sensationalism has corrupted many innocent hearts and destroyed many simple minds.

>> The forces of authoritarianism and individualism has shattered many families and community lives.

>> The forces of relativism and atheism are strongly raging against the practise of faith and the teachings of the Church.

As Christians, we are soldiers belonging to the Kingdom of God, with Christ as our King.

A soldier ought to be one who is deeply convinced and highly passionate of one’s King and Kingdom

>> As a Christian, am I deeply convinced of my faith and love for Christ and His Kingdom?
>> As a Christian, am I passionately enthusiastic to live my Christian virtues in this world?

There are many who say that they are willing to give up their lives and die for Christ.
>> But today, the Lord also demands, “Are you willing to LIVE for Christ?”

There is an urgent need to become Christ the King’s living witnesses in this world.

Kings are often identified with a lot of pomp and grandeur and power and triumphalism.
>> But Christ our King is not bothered about any such external pageantry or vain flashiness.

Then what is the identification of this Christ the King?

In Mt 2:2, we read a question, “Where is the (newborn) King of the Jews?”

>> The answer to this question will be found at the end of the Gospel, with Jesus hanging on the Cross and a statement which reads in Mt 27:37, “This is the King of the Jews”!

Where the Cross is, there is Christ the King!

>> Where the lost, the sinful, the abandoned and the lonely are, there is Christ the King.
>> Where the poor, the suffering, the miserable and the abused are, there is Christ the King.

The Cross is the identity and symbol of Christ the King!

As this Crucified King’s soldiers, we too are invited to be sharers in the Cross of Christ.

It is said that people who are crucified with Christ will have three distinct marks:

Since they are crucified…
1. They can only look in one direction….
2. They can never turn back…
3. They no longer have plans of their own.

And these three characteristics ought to reflect in our Christian lives…
>> Being totally focused on Jesus and His kingdom… (looking in one direction)
>> Never to turn back from our commitment and get attracted to the ways of the world… (never turning back)
>> Giving up any of our personal goals and agenda which can deter us from God’s will… (no plans of their own)

Yes, let us Hearken to His voice…Christ, the King – The Great King.
> No land to reign, but our hearts…
>> No majestic throne, but the cross…
>>> No mighty army, but a few people to spread His word…
>>>> No grand fiesta, but the sacrifice of the Calvary in the Eucharist
>>>> No royal treats all the time but pain and suffering often

This king invites us today to renew our commitment to Him

>> Royalty is less, but faithfulness is assured….
>> Popularity is rare, but blessings are plenty.

Shall we say Yes to this King of Hearts – Christ the Crucified King?

Happy Feast to all the Valiant and Faithful Soldiers of Christ, the Awesome King!

God Bless! Live Jesus!

Nov 21 (Lk 20: 27-40)

Fr Jijo Manjackal MSFS1 Comment

REFLECTION CAPSULE FOR THE DAY (Based on Lk 20:27-40)
Question: Who could be the called as the most ‘blessed’ people in the world?
>> Answer: Christians

The Reason: In Christ we have the possibility to receive great blessings, to have heavenly experiences on earth by living a faith-filled life and to enjoy the most intimate moments with God in the Most Holy Eucharist.

The Biblical Support:
>> John 10:10, “I have come to give life, and life in abundance”
>> John 6:51, “I am the Living Bread that came down from heaven; whoever eats this bread will live forever”

Question: Who could be the called as the most ‘pitied’ people in the world?
>> Answer: Christians

The Reason: A Christian who, knowing the great wonders and love of the Lord and yet fails to believe, be convinced of a life in Christ after this earthly life & lives only for this world, is to be pitied  into shame and misery.

The Biblical Support:
>> 1 Cor 15:19, “If for this life only we have hoped in Christ, we are the most pitiable people of all”
>> 1 Cor 9:16, “Woe to me if I don’t preach the Gospel!”

Am I a Christian who can be called Blessed, because of my faith in Christ which is directed towards Eternal Life ?
>> Or am I a Christian who is to be Pitied, because of my belief in Christ which is only to satisfy my desires of this world?

The Gospel of the Day invites us to dwell on these aspects with the incident of the Question on the Resurrection.

This question on the Resurrection was put forward by the Sadducees.

The Sadducees were the priestly aristocracy among the Jews.
>> They tried to live in close contact with the Roman rulers so that they might as far as possible promote the secular interests of their people.

Consequently they took little interest in religious matters and in many respects clashed with the Pharisees, especially as regards the Pharisees’ attachment to the ‘traditions of the elders’.

Anything which was not taught by ‘the law of Moses’ (the first five books of the Old Testament) was rejected by the Sadducees as forbidden innovations.

Unlike the Pharisees, the Sadducees did not believe in many aspects:
They didn’t believe in the resurrection of the dead.

They didn’t believe in angels.
>> They didn’t believe in heaven or hell.

They didn’t believe in life after death.
>> They didn’t believe in the immortality of the soul.

Thus, the doubt on the Resurrection exposes the hypocrisy of the Sadducees.

They were asking Jesus about something they didn’t believe.

They sought to establish that belief in a resurrection from the dead was unscriptural and impractical by putting forward a highly hypothetical question.

But Jesus, the cleverest and smartest Master outwits their malicious plans.

Jesus establishes that eternal life would not be a mere extension of this presently life.
> Rather, there would be a great transformation of all that is earthly.

>> The style and the method of this transformation is known only to God…
>> The manner and the mode of this transformation is known only to God…

But the Lord with logic & reason and a strong scriptural-support champions this Doctrine of the Resurrection from the Dead.

The passage ends with the statement, “And they no longer dared to ask him anything” (Lk 19:40)
>> The Sadducees who came to trap the Lord with their malicious doubts were put to silence.

>>> Maybe a few of those Sadducees would have second thoughts on it.
>>> Maybe a few of those Sadducees got a bit confused between Jesus’ words and their own convictions
>>> Maybe most of those Sadducees felt angered at the convinced reply of Jesus & their unwillingness to let go of their position.
>>> Maybe most of those Sadducees felt threatened by the confident reply of Jesus and their aversion to give up their opinions.

>> It’s a tragedy when one fails to convert oneself, even after knowing the truth!
>> It’s a pity when one fails to change oneself, even after becoming aware of the reality.
>> It’s a calamity when one fails to alter oneself, even after being conscious of the facts.

Are we sometimes like the ‘Sadducees’ in our lives?

>> Do I fail to believe in the power of the Resurrection of the Dead?
>> Do I fail to believe that there is a life beyond our earthly existence?

It is not enough to have a mere verbal belief.
>> This belief ought to be translated in our personal living.

If we really believe and trust in life eternal…
… we need  to prepare ourselves for a glorious eternity by living a holy life.
… we need to avoid any blocks and sins which can hamper my progress to eternal life.

The world is becoming more and more materialistic today.
>> The feeling that “after all we have only one life” and “let us enjoy to the maximum” is widespread.

Certainly, God has blessed us with this life…and we need to enjoy.
>> But we need to enjoy it in the proper manner with a sense of responsibility and decorum.

Let us give up anything that reduces the value of enjoyment to mere sensual and bodily-pleasurable activities.
>> Instead, let us enjoy real freedom and happiness, by living a life of Grace and Love!

We are Christians…
Will my life be the most blessed? or Will my life be the most pitied?

Today we celebrate the Feast of the Presentation of our Blessed Mother Mary.

This Feast is a constant reminder for us to “offer ourselves” to the Lord.

Technically speaking, we can’t ‘offer’ anything to God because He is the source of everything.
>> All what we are and what we have is His.

But we can surely make a pledge of our lives to Him and live a life united with Him.

This is the offering that is demanded of us…
… an offering of a faithful life
… an offering of a holy life

Yes, as little children, holding the Hands of our Blessed Mamma, may we cry to the Lord – “For You, Forever!”

Happy Feast of the Presentation of our Blessed Mamma!

God Bless! Live Jesus!