“Being closer to Jesus, the Great ‘Sun’ and living our Christian lives in ‘sincerity’, in zealousness and with deeper passion for the ‘Son’ of God!”

(Based on Exod 14:5-18 and Mt 12:38-42 – Monday of the 16th Week in Ordinary Time, Year 1)

The English word (according to a popular legend) ‘sincere’ comes from two Latin words : ‘sin-e’ and ‘cere’.

‘Sin-e’ means: without
‘Cere’ means: wax

So ‘sin’e’ + ‘cere’ means “without wax”

Sincere, therefore, literally means, being “without wax”

In ancient times, when art flourished, it was a common practice to repair with “invisible wax”, any vase or statue that had, as a result of carelessness, been damaged.

Sometimes while chiseling the bust in marble, if the chisel slipped out the Sculptor’s hand, some edge of the statue would be chipped off.
Rather than taking the trouble of making a new bust…
… the sculptor would repair the features with “wax” so that the flaw could not be detected, unless by very close scrutiny.

However, if the client happened to be a knowledgeable person…
… he would carry the finished statue into the open before paying for it
… and examine it carefully in the sunlight!

If the statue was “sincere” i.e. “without wax” – it would remain firm; else some parts of it would drop down!

“Sincerity” of the statue was thus examined in the presence of sunlight!

Am I a “sincere” person? – “Without the wax” of deceit, malice, corruption or guile

I need to come into the presence of the Sunlight – Jesus – to be examined!

The Gospel of the day presents an incident where the “insincerity” of a certain group of people was exposed in the warming and bright presence of Jesus, the Light of the world.

Some of the Scribes and the Pharisees said to Jesus, “Teacher, we wish to see a sign from you” (Mt 12: 38)

Through St Paul, we get to know that it was, probably, a characteristic of the Jews to ‘demand signs’.

“For Jews demand signs, and Greeks look for wisdom” (1 Cor 1: 22)

When we scan through the pages of the Bible, we also see God Himself giving many signs to His people…

God put a mark on Cain, after he had killed Abel, so that no one should kill him at sight (Gen 4: 15)
God gave the sign of the ‘rainbow’, as a sign of the covenant, so that the waters would never become a flood, to destroy all mortal beings (Gen 9: 13-15)
God empowered Moses with many signs, when Moses had to present himself before Pharaoh, in a bid to ask him “to let go” of the Israelites ( Ex 3: 12)
Two hundred and fifty men were consumed, by a fire from the Lord, after they had unworthily offered incense to God (Num 16: 35)
God gave a sign to Gideon, when he asked for it, humbly, as a confirmation in his entrusted task (Judg 6: 17)
God gave a sign at King Saul’s anointing (1 Sam 10: 1-13)

However, in today’s Gospel, we find that when the Pharisees and the Scribes, demand a sign, Jesus doesn’t yield to it!

What was the reason?

The demand of the Pharisees and Scribes was a demand for a sign “not in humility” or “to really cast off any doubt”

Rather, this was a demand for a sign that exposed their obstinacy to remain in unbelief!

In fact, Jesus sees through their “insincerity”

He sees through the fact, that they were “with wax” – the wax of deceit, falsity and deception!

And this “wax” of trickery, began to melt in the presence of Jesus, the Powerful Light!

Therefore Jesus comes down heavily on them and says, “An evil and adulterous generation seeks a sign…” (Mt 12: 39)

Note the two strong words that Jesus uses…

Evil: pointing to a wicked heart that sought destruction and spoiling the lives of others
Adulterous: pointing to an unfaithful heart that reduced relations to a mere pragmatic nature, and was characterised by cheating and disloyalty.

Is my life also characterised by constantly wanting “only” signs from God…

I expect immediate answers to all my prayers, in the way I want
I always want some miracles, as I choose, to keep the light of my faith burning
I get depressed and feel totally lost when I do not get the signs that I expected in life
I witness a lot of wondrous deeds around me, but still I remain obstinate in my unbelief

Is my Christian life only a sign-seeking one…
… or is my Christian life, rather, a Saviour-seeking one?

Am I adamant with wanting only miracles…
… or am I, rather, passionate and zealous about the Master?

Jesus invites us to be “sincere” – “without wax”.

In His bright presence, all “wax” of duplicity and hypocrisy will melt
In His glowing light, all “wax” of dishonesty and deception will dissolve

Let us be closer to Jesus, the Great ‘Sun’ and live our Christian lives in “sincerity”
… in zealousness and with deeper passion for the ‘Son’ of God!

God Bless! Live Jesus!

---

📖 Discovering the beauty of the Catholic Church through the Catechism
MAN’S VOCATION LIFE IN THE SPIRIT – GOD’S SALVATION: LAW AND GRACE – The Fifth Commandment – Respect for human life

Infanticide, fratricide, parricide, and the murder of a spouse are especially grave crimes by reason of the natural bonds which they break.

Concern for eugenics or public health cannot justify any murder, even if commanded by public authority. (CCC # 2268)

“Sorting out our priorities properly, by giving the highest priority to the Lord!”

(Based on Genesis 18:1-10a, Col 1:24-28 and Lk 10:38-42 – 16th Sunday in Ordinary Time, Cycle C)

Nine year old Bobby arrived late for the football match.

The game had already started.

The coach, obviously upset as Bobby was a key player, shouted at him: “Why are you so late?”

“I had to decide”, replied Bobby, “Today is a Sunday. And I had to decide between going to Church and going for this football game”

“Then what did you do” asked the coach curiously

“I tossed a coin to decide” said Bobby.

“Tossed a coin?” asked the surprised coach, “But that shouldn’t have taken too long.”

“Hmmm…” continued Bobby, “Well… I had to toss the coin 35 times!”

(Little Bobby kept on tossing the coin…till he got what he wanted – i.e. to go for the football match!!)

How often are we too like Li’l Bobby, when it comes to making choices and priorities, especially in our spiritual life…
We get confused in choosing the correct choices

We get puzzled in preferring the proper priorities

We sometimes even seek to justify our choices and argue to validate our priorities
We insist on having our way… modify situations to suit our needs!

As a result, we often end up….
… in complaining and cribbing
… in back biting and bickering
… in criticism and calumny

The Gospel of the Day is a lesson in making the proper priorities and the correct choices in life.

We have the familiar incident of Jesus as a guest in the house of Martha and Mary.

Jesus came to a village and was welcomed in the house of Martha and Mary (Lk 10:38)

Martha demonstrated great hospitality by welcoming Jesus into the home (Lk 10:40)

She got busy with the tasks of serving their honoured Guest.

Mary, on the other side, displayed great devotion and love, by sitting at the feet of Jesus (Lk 10:39)

She got immersed in spending time, with the revered Rabbi.

The character of Martha is vividly seen in this incident

Here is a lady…
… hospitable and welcoming
… engaging in works to make the stay of her Guest comfortable
… ready to struggle and do whatever she can, to bring happiness to the Other

Many of us could probably identify ourselves with Martha.

We are willing to let go of our self so that others may enjoy and feel contented
We engage ourselves into works so that the life of our loved ones are taken care
We are ready to struggle and do whatever we can, to bring joy and comfort to others

But despite doing all these hard works, like Martha, we often end up on the wrong side

When Martha complained to Jesus, “Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me by myself to do the serving?” (Lk 10: 40)
… she was expressing her feelings of being over burdened
… she was giving vent to her emotions of not being acknowledged

But Jesus calms her, and chides her mildly, “Martha, Martha, you are worried and anxious about many things…” (Lk 10: 41)

Something interesting is to be noted here…. “Martha, Martha!”

A double calling of the name!

The Scripture records only very few instances when such an occurrence took place – the name being called twice…

Abraham: (Gen 22:11): “But the angel of the Lord called to him out of heaven: ‘Abraham, Abraham.’ He answered, ‘Here I am.'”

Jacob (Gen 46:2): “In a vision at night God called to Israel, ‘Jacob, Jacob.’ He answered, ‘Here I am.'”

Moses (Ex 3:4): “When the Lord saw that he had gone over to see, God called him from the middle of the bush, ‘Moses, Moses.’ He answered, ‘Here I am.'”

Samuel (1 Sam 3:10): “The Lord came and stood and spoke as at the other times: ‘Samuel, Samuel.’ and Samuel said, ‘Speak, your servant is listening.'”

Simon Peter (Lk 22:31) “Simon, Simon! Behold, Satan has demanded to sift all of you like wheat, but I have prayed that your own faith may not fail.

Saul (Acts 9:4) “Falling to the ground he heard a voice saying to him, “Saul, Saul, why do you persecute Me?”

We also find another important instance: Jesus calling on God (Mt 27:46): “Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachthani – My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?”

What does the twice calling of the name in the Bible refer to?

Repeating a person’s name was a Hebrew expression of intimacy

In all the instances of the name being called twice, a major event/occasion/teaching was being referred to

Taking a cue from this…
… When Jesus calls “Martha, Martha” – the name being called twice:

Jesus is expressing a filial tenderness and love for Martha
Jesus is also referring to an important teaching: “Giving importance to Jesus above all”

To each of us then, who find ourselves, struggling and complaining like Martha…

The Lord calls our name – “probably twice ” – and tells us:
“With much tenderness and love, I invite you my child, to give heed to an important teaching:
… Give priority to ME above all!”

Like Martha, maybe we are often distracted
Perhaps…

We tell the Lord that we wish to follow Him wholeheartedly…
… but are sometimes unwilling to let go of our sinful behaviours

We promise God that we would spend more time in prayer…
… but often excuses like lack of time prevent us from fulfilling our promises

We resolve that we will let go our sinful habits and tendencies…
… but often we cling on to those pleasures and fail to be more determined in rooting them out

Today, let us give heed to this invitation of the Lord: “To give priority to HIM above all!”

Surely, all of us do have…
… our own works and responsibilities
… our own cares and concerns of life
… our own distractions and troubles

But in the midst of all this…. beyond all these aspects: Let us give priority to the Lord!

Let His presence reign…
… in our work and responsibilities
Let His Providence be trusted…
… in our cares and concerns of life
Let His Power prevail… in our distractions and troubles

Let the incident of Martha and Mary inspire us, to make personal resolutions…
… of daily spending time with the Lord in personal prayer
… of daily reading the Word of God and listening to His Voice
… of daily making an examination of conscience and amending our lives

The Lord loves us much….
… let us love Him too
… let Him reign over our homes and our lives
… let us give Him full attention as The Guest of our hearts

Situations in life will often put to us dilemma in making a choice… in picking out our priorities
“Let us always give priority to the Lord!”

Are we going to toss a coin for this?

God Bless! Live Jesus!

— Fr Jijo Jose Manjackal MSFS
Rome, Italy
Email: reflectioncapsules@gmail.com

---

📖 Discovering the beauty of the Catholic Church through the Catechism
MAN’S VOCATION LIFE IN THE SPIRIT – GOD’S SALVATION: LAW AND GRACE – The Fifth Commandment – Respect for human life

The fifth commandment forbids direct and intentional killing as gravely sinful.

The murderer and those who cooperate voluntarily in murder commit a sin that cries out to heaven for vengeance. (CCC # 2268)

“Allowing Jesus, our Blessed Lord to be our hope, our strength and our courage!”

(Based on Exod 12:37-42 and Mt 12:14-21 – Saturday of the 15th Week in Ordinary Time, Year 1)

“Pandora’s Box” is a phrase which means a process that once begun, generates many complicated problems.

There is a Greek mythological story about the origin of this phrase – the “Pandora’s Box”

According to the Greek legend, the first woman of the earth, named Pandora was sent to the earth, with a casket (box) in her hand.

She was forbidden to open this box.

However, out of immense curiosity one day she lifted the cover of the box and looked in.
But there came forth from the box, every conceivable plague for man’s body and his mind, and immediately they scattered themselves far and wide throughout the earth.

Pandora hastened to replace the lid of the box, but there was only one thing left – Hope!

Often our life can resemble this mythological tale, in that, we face a whole set of evils and troubles unleashed at us.

The Pandora’s box – of persecutions, of difficulties, of sadness, of daily tensions – gets opened often in our lives.

But life still invites and challenges us to Move on with Life, in Hope, seeking to heal every negativity!

Our Blessed Lord is our model and perfect example for this.

While on the earth, He had to face the trial of many ‘Pandora’s boxes’ – of cruel plots, of hurtful betrayals, of painful rejections – being unleashed at Him.

Yet, He remained firm and defiant in His Zeal and Passion for His Mission – His Mission of being a “Hope to the Gentiles”( Mt 12: 21)

The Gospel of the Day makes a vivid presentation of this struggle of our Blessed Lord was subjected to.

The Gospel passage begins with the verse, “But the Pharisees went out and took counsel to put Jesus to death” (Mt 12: 14)

There could be perhaps, quite a factors that prompted the religious elders of the time, to make this move

1. Jesus did not correspond to their idea of being a Messiah

The Pharisees and the religious leaders of the time, probably had a externally dominant visualization of the Messiah Who was to come…

Someone Who was politically powerful
Someone Who would be Restorer of their Religion
Someone Who would firmly establish the Jewish Empire
But none of these seemed to be evident in the ministry and life of Jesus.

2. Jesus seemed to be a thorn in their cosy structured and institutionalized pattern of life

The long wait for the Messiah had resulted…

In religion in being devoid of religiosity and instead being reduced to mere rituals
In Spirituality losing its sheen of sacredness and instead being sunken to mere static statutes

This had resulted in creation of classes…

Of the Ruling Class: consisting of the Pharisees, the Scribes and other religious leaders and elders,
Of the Ruled Class: consisting of the ordinary people, whose voices were often restrained, and had become mute followers of the tradition.

Jesus, however, by His vibrant teachings, His Mighty Deeds and His Uncompromising Life, disturbed all such cosy structures and comfortable religious life-style.

How often do we also turn anti against those who become a ‘Jesus’ to us…

Those whose ideas do not correspond to our sinful or lethargic ways of life
Those who become a thorn in our cosy and institutionalized pattern of life

We too may sometimes plot ways and means to end such forces..
… which trigger transformation in us
… which awaken our consciences to lead purer or holier lives

We are instead, invited to be like Jesus, our Blessed Lord.

He faced many intriguing challenges…
… deadly plots to end His Life and Mission
… uncharitable venoms of conspiracy to terminate His life

Yet, He remained firm and bold to remain ” the Chosen Servant, the Beloved in Him God delighted, the One who proclaimed justice to the Gentiles and in Whose Name, the Gentiles hoped (cf. Mt 12:18 -21)

Are we ready to “live our lives in hope” even though we may often experience the evils of the “Pandora’s box” seeking to submerge us?

May Jesus, our Blessed Lord be our hope, our strength and our courage!

God Bless! Live Jesus!

---

📖 Discovering the beauty of the Catholic Church through the Catechism
MAN’S VOCATION LIFE IN THE SPIRIT – GOD’S SALVATION: LAW AND GRACE – The Fifth Commandment – Respect for human life

Consequently, the Church teaches, in the light of the Gospel
… that the death penalty is inadmissible because it is an attack on the inviolability and dignity of the person…

… and she works with determination for its abolition worldwide. (CCC # 2267)

“Sowing the seeds of mercy and compassion to all!”

(Based on Exod 11:10-12:14 and Mt 12:1-8 – Friday of the 15th Week in Ordinary Time, Year 1)

The dial of a clock is a beautiful illustration of the way God deals with human life.

The hands on the dial of the clock are God’s Hands – passing over and over again…
… the short hand, being the Hand of God’s Discipline
… the long hand, being the Hand of God’s Mercy

The short hand – the hand of Discipline…
… passes slowly, but surely
… strikes at each hour too
But the long hand – the hand of Mercy…
… passes much faster and surely too
… showers down sixtyfold of blessing for each strike of discipline

And another interesting aspect….?

Both the hands are fastened to one firm and secure point – the Beautiful Heart of the God of Love!

God’s discipline in the form of trials is a surety in life…

But much more abundant in life, are His mercies that are scattered regularly all through…

And both these dimensions – Discipline & Mercies – stem forth from the Immense Love of God!

The Gospel of the Day is a beautiful presentation of Jesus as the God of Love Who, though is a Disciplining God…
… displays His Heart of abundant mercy and invites His followers to become People of Merciful Love!

The Gospel passage begins the incident of the disciples being caught by the Pharisees plucking the heads of grain and eating them, on the Sabbath Day.

The Pharisees who were the strict proponents and protectors of the Law, found it a great offence when they found the disciples were doing an “illegal and unlawful” act, as per their Sabbath prescriptions.

Therefore they accuse, “Look, Your disciples are doing what is not lawful to do on the Sabbath” (Mt 12:2)

But Jesus is quick to point out the folly that the Pharisees were falling into…

The folly of being crime-finders than being mercy-givers!
The folly of becoming petty-accusers than being generous-forgivers!

Jesus brings out two practical examples to show the “duplicity” and the “unkind” attitude of the Pharisees:

1. David’s ‘grave’ violation of the Sabbath was acceptable whereas the Disciples ‘minor’ act was condemned!

David unlawfully ate of the tabernacle
showbread which was reserved only for the priests.

But this “not lawful” act of David was not condemned

The Disciples on the other, actually did not break the Law…

The Hebrew law had made provision for those in need to eat when they passed through a field of grain (Dt. 23:25; cf. Ruth 2:2-3)

But over the years, the tradition had evolved a series of ‘violations’ that were considered violations of the Sabbath Law.

One of these ‘violations’ was ‘ plucking and eating’ the grain – that the disciples did.
However, this act was most certainly not for commercial gain, as envisaged by the Law

Therefore, in reality, the Disciples had not really done anything “unlawful”

Yet, they were condemned!

2. The daily duty of the priests on the Sabbath was considered as being “normal” whereas the ‘exceptional’ act of the disciples to satisfy the basic human need of hunger was considered ‘aberrant!’

The work done by the Priests who served on the Sabbath Day, was acceptable.

However, the action done by the Disciples was considered violation of the Law!

Jesus makes another statement here, “I tell you, something greater than the Temple is here” (Mt 12: 6)

What was Jesus, in fact, also saying?

“You permit the priests of human-made temples to work, but you do not allow the Disciples of the Living Temple to work?

Is that not showing your duplicity on one side, and your lack of knowledge of the Messiah on the other?!”

And therefore, Jesus makes that bold and firm statement, echoing the prophet Hosea (6:6): “I desire mercy, not sacrifice!” (Mt 12: 7)

Jesus passed through a field where condemnation was scattered; but He sows the seeds of mercy all around!

Today, you and me, are invited to do the same…
… to become people who show mercy and compassion, rather than being “judgmental” and “overly-critical” people!

We are invited to be like the Lord, as illustrated in the ‘dial of a clock’:

Having a hand of discipline that passes only slowly…

But also having a hand of Mercy that traverses more often…
But both, being fastened tightly to a Heart, full of compassion and love!

We may live, passing through the fields of unjust condemnation and outright critics.

But like the Lord, may we become persons, who sow the seeds of Mercy and Compassion!

God Bless! Live Jesus!

---

📖 Discovering the beauty of the Catholic Church through the Catechism
MAN’S VOCATION LIFE IN THE SPIRIT – GOD’S SALVATION: LAW AND GRACE – The Fifth Commandment – Respect for human life

Lastly, more effective systems of detention have been developed, which ensure the due protection of citizens…

… but, at the same time, do not definitively deprive the guilty of the possibility of redemption. (CCC # 2267)

“Rest in the Lord’s Presence and learning from Him!”

(Based on Exod 3:13-20 and Mt 11:28-30 – Thursday of the 15th Week in Ordinary Time, Year 1)

An old lady was sitting in the park – all alone and dejected.

A young boy – who was sitting on the opposite bench – and was doing some writing work, had been constantly watching this lady who was brooding over some worry.

Finally, after a while, he stopped writing and enquired:
“Madam, I have been observing you. From morning, you have been quite worried.

What’s the matter? Maybe there is some way I can help you

The old lady looked at him and replied: “You know, my son, in life, I have been worried about so many things in life…
… but most of them never happened!”

The young man was surprised to hear that – “troubled about things, that never really happened!”

So he asked again, “Then why are you troubled now?”

She replied, with a tinge of remorse: “I am worried as to why did I unnecessarily worry so much in my life!”

Funny, isn’t it?

But, are we sometimes like this old lady?

Too much worried and disturbed in life…
… sometimes (or perhaps, very often) even about things that have not happened in life?

The call of the Gospel is an invitation by Jesus to “cast all our worries and burdens” on Him.

We read in the Gospel today, the assuring words of Jesus: “Come to me, all you who are weary and are burdened, and I will give you rest.” (Mt 11: 28)

Jesus came into the world, primarily as a Saviour!

He is in deep love with us!
“…You are precious in my eyes and I love You!” (Is 43:4).

The meaning of the name “Jesus” Itself is that…
… GOD SAVES!

As a Beloved Lover, He constantly tugs the strings of our hearts and beckons us to Himself – wanting us to experience His Saving Love!

He extends His cordial and warmest invitation to each one of us who are weary and heavy-burdened!

The Greek word for WEARY is “Kopiao”…
… which means to toil and become weary to the point of exhaustion! .

WEARY not only refers to the daily physical strains and struggles we undergo in life, but is also…
… the internal exhaustion caused by seeking Divine Truth through mere Human Wisdom.
… the external burden caused by futile peripheral efforts to seek the Divinity.

Many of us, very often, reach the point of exhaustion and fatigue by our everyday works and in our striving for salvation.

However, today, the Lord calls all of us – to experience His Resting Presence!

“Behold, I stand at the door and Knock! If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will enter his house and dine with him, and he with me”” (Rev 3:20).

“Experiencing His Resting Presence” also means “to learn from Him”…
… especially learning to be Humble and Gentle like Him! (Mt 11: 29)

A proud heart robs the person of spiritual insights

It renders a person to look only to oneself; the dependence on the Lord is lost!

A harsh (violent/tough/annoyed/wrathful) heart steals the person of “being at peace”

It renders a person to look only at the negativities of life; the attitude of being grateful to God is lost!

Today, let us give heed to the call of the Lord…
… to “Rest in His Presence”

And thus to learn to be more “gentle and humble”

Many of us might question: How can I “Rest in His Presence”

Many of us might counter: Is it really possible to learn to be more “gentle and humble?”

“Rest in His Presence” is…
… by making a time for the Lord, in prayer, every day of our life – an act, which we shall never compromise!
… by “becoming aware” of the Presence of the Lord in the activities that we engage in
… by recognizing the goodness in other people and situations of life, and thus being, consciously, grateful to God

Learning to be more “gentle and humble” is…
… by picking up any of those virtues, and (purposely) doing an act towards growing in the virtue
… by daily examining the conscience, in the practice of that particular virtue, and making amends to try again, even if failed (Let’s remember the Lord Who always rose again, even when He fell many times, on the Way of the Cross!)
… by praying specially to the Holy Spirit for those virtues, and never being discouraged, even when faced with the opposite vice
… by being inspired by the many saints, who went through the phases of vices, but were ultimately able to conquer, and live the virtues

Tensions, worries and problems of life constantly disappoint us!

Even our striving to improve our spiritual lives (and the feeling of failure to do so) discourage us!

But the Lord constantly tells us…”Come to Me!”
“Never, ever get discouraged, My Child!”

Let not the anxieties of our life dishearten us…
Instead may the Invitation of the Lord – “to Rest in His Presence and to learn from Him”…
… help us to always be at peace in life!

God Bless! Live Jesus!

---

📖 Discovering the beauty of the Catholic Church through the Catechism
MAN’S VOCATION LIFE IN THE SPIRIT – GOD’S SALVATION: LAW AND GRACE – The Fifth Commandment- Respect for human life

Today, however, there is an increasing awareness that the dignity of the person is not lost even after the commission of very serious crimes.

In addition, a new understanding has emerged of the significance of penal sanctions imposed by the state. (CCC # 2267)

“Depending and trusting in the Lord, with a childlike faith, so that the Lord may rejoice in us and He – the Wisdom – may reveal Himself more and more to us!”

(Based on Exod 3:1-6, 9-12 and Mt 11:25-27 – Wednesday of the 15th Week in Ordinary Time, Year 1 – Feast of Our Lady of Mount Carmel)

A little girl child was to undergo a risky surgery.

She was placed upon the table and the surgeon was about to render her a dose of anaesthesia.

“Before we can make you well, dear, we must put you to sleep,” said the surgeon to the li’l girl.

With a cute smile, she said sweetly, “Oh, if you are going to put me to sleep, I must say my prayers first.”

So she got on her knees and said the child’s prayer.

“Now I can go to sleep,” said the sweet child.

The surgeon, later, testified that this action of the child moved his heart greatly…
… and he himself, prayed, that night, for the first time, in thirty years!

The power of the little child to influence was amazing…
… even on a person who was much older to her!

There is great sincerity and openness in the actions of little children.

There is immense authenticity and truthfulness in the deeds of little ones.

It is this childlike faith and simplicity that finds an expression of appreciation from our Blessed Lord in today’s Gospel.

Jesus says, “I thank thee, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that thou hast hidden these things from the wise and understanding and revealed them to babes” (Mt 11:25)

What makes the Divine Wisdom to hide from the wise and reveal to the childlike instead?

We could consider a couple of reasons….

1. The wise depend on their own strength; the childlike have a sense of dependency

One of the qualities or rather a condition of little children is their “helplessness!”

Little children are helpless…
… to be taking care of even their basic needs
… to be able to meet their basic emotions

They therefore have a sense of dependency!

The wise have over-confidence in themselves; the childlike trust on others

2. Another quality of children is their basic sense of “trust”
   They tend to easily trust the others…
   … in meeting their needs and in having what they desire
   … in being protected and being taken care safely

These two great qualities of the childlike are what helps the Divine wisdom to be revealed to them:

A sense of dependency: Depending on God, the Father in every moment of life
A sense of trust: Trusting in the Lord for every need and believing in His providence

The Gospel of the Day makes us to examine our own lives and check the level of childlike qualities that we possess…

Do I possess a sense of Dependency on the Lord…
… or is my reliance only on my own self-worth and abilities?

Do I possess a sense of Trust in the Lord…
… or do I fall into constant anxieties and apprehensions?

Let us depend and trust in the Lord, with a childlike faith, so that the Lord may rejoice in us and He – the Wisdom – may reveal Himself more and more to us!

Today is the Feast of Our Lady of Mount Carmel.

The feast was assigned to 16 July, because on that date in 1251, according to Carmelite traditions…
… the scapular was given by the Blessed Virgin to St. Simon Stock.

The Scapular (from Latin scapulae, “shoulders”) – is both a sign of our belonging to Mary and pledge of her maternal protection in this life and the next.

It is also a sign of couple of elements:

1. A consecration to and trust in Mary
2. A declaration to imitate Our Lady’s virtues, especially Her humility, chastity, and prayerfulness.

The scapular is not…
… a magical charm to protect someone.
… an automatic guarantee of salvation.
… an excuse for not living up to the demands of the Christian life

It is instead, a sign…
… to follow Jesus, like Mary
… to be open to God and to His Will.
… to be guided by Faith, Hope and Love.
… to pray at all times
… to discover and be aware of the Presence of God in all that happens around us.

As St. John of the Cross says:
“He who loves, is not ashamed before men of what he does for God…
… neither does he hide it through shame, though the whole world should condemn it.”

Let us seek the intercession of our Blessed Mother of Mt Carmel, in our struggles and hardships of life…
… and may the Sacramental of the Scapular be a sign for us to publicly declare our Love for Christ and our Readiness to “take up the Cross!”

Let us hold Mamma’s hands…
… as She Inspires, Helps, Challenges and Intercedes for us!

Happy Feast of our Blessed Mother of Carmel!

God Bless! Live Jesus!

---

📖 Discovering the beauty of the Catholic Church through the Catechism
MAN’S VOCATION LIFE IN THE SPIRIT – GOD’S SALVATION: LAW AND GRACE – The Fifth Commandment – Respect for human life

Recourse to the death penalty on the part of legitimate authority…
… following a fair trial, was long considered an appropriate response to the gravity of certain crimes

… and an acceptable, albeit extreme, means of safeguarding the common good. (CCC # 2267)

“Living a holy life, in accordance with God’s abundant Graces!”

(Based on Exod 2:1-15a and Mt 11:20-24 – Tuesday of the 15th Week in Ordinary Time, Year 1)

There is an incident in the life of Queen Victoria.

As a queen, she enjoyed many luxuries and comforts.
She too, however, had to go through many family problems, especially, concerns as a grandmother.

One of her grandsons was highly reckless in the usage and spending of money.

Once, as his birthday was approaching, the grandson wrote to his grandmother, Queen Victoria, reminding her of his approaching birthday.

He cleverly suggested that “money would be the best and the most acceptable birthday gift”.

In reply, the Queen Grandmother wrote back a “letter of advice”- in her own hand – sternly reproving the young boy for his life of extravagance…
… and urging him on the practice of economy.

However, the young boy’s reply to this letter, staggered her:
“Dear Grandma,” said the letter, “thank you for your kind letter of advice.

I have just sold the same letter for five pounds!”

The young grandson spared no efforts to even “auction and sell” the prized ‘letter of advice’ of the Queen, and got for himself some extra money!!

The young fellow wasted away every chance that was offered to him, to live a good life.

Instead, the privileges that were offered to him were converted to opportunities for indulging in more and more occasions of sin!

The Gospel of the day presents Jesus condemning such an “unrepentant” and “arrogant” attitude of some cities, in amending their ways and in turning back to the Lord.

Jesus raises a cry of sigh, “Woe to you, Chorazin! Woe to you, Bethsaida! For if the mighty works done to you, had been in Tyre and Sidon, they would have repented long back” (Mt 11:21)

“And you, Capernaum! Will you be exalted to heaven? You shall be brought down to Hades” (Mt 11: 23)

These three towns – Chorazin, Bethsaida and Capernaum – had a unique common feature.

These three were called as the “Orthodox Triangle”.

These towns consisted of “traditional” Jews – Jews who took the Law of Moses very seriously!

They had a benefit of a “faith that was traditional and deep-rooted”
These towns also consisted of “privileged” people – people who had the great privilege of being witnesses to many miracles, events, preaching and deeds of the Lord Jesus.
They had the privilege of a “faith that was encouraged and boosted by the wonderful deeds of Jesus”

Despite these great opportunities and advantages that were offered to them, the people in these towns “failed” to live a life of repentance!

And this is what the Lord condemns them for…

They had the benefit of a traditional faith…
… but it did not move their lives to be lived in holiness!

They had the privilege of a faith that was nourished and encouraged…
… but it did not make them to purge their lives of sin and seek to live worthily in the presence of God!

The people of these towns wasted away every chance that was offered to them, to live a good life.

Instead, the privileges that were offered to them were converted to occasions for indulging in more and more opportunities for sin!

Is my life also resembling these three towns?

I may be a “traditional” Christian…
… having ‘inherited’ my faith in the Lord from my family and my background
… having heard and even practising many acts of faith and devotion

I may also be an “encouraged” Christian…
… having got many opportunities to hear and witness the powerful works of the Lord through many talks, retreats, miracles, sacraments etc
… having the privilege of constantly encountering the living presence of the Lord in the lives of many people.

But do these factors get “personalized” and make me “to live a life of holiness and repentance?”

I may boast that I am a Christian by birth
I may claim that I am doing many great works in the ministry of the Lord
I may assert that I have experienced many miraculous Divine interventions in life
But do all these make me to “repent” of my sins and help me seek to “live a life of sanctity?”

The message of the Gospel is clear: “Repent, and believe, in the Lord!”

The faith-inputs that I receive, ought to, first and foremost, cause a transformation in my life – seeking God’s Will at all times and remaining firm to avoid any occasions of sin.

The Lord through today’s Gospel is a writing a “letter of advice to us” – to examine our lives and to make the necessary changes, in order to live a holier life.

Are we going to take serious heed to this “letter of advice” and make suitable changes?
… or are we going to “auction and sell off” this “letter of advice” and nullify the loving message of the Gospel?

God Bless! Live Jesus!

— Fr Jijo Jose Manjackal MSFS
Rome, Italy
Email: reflectioncapsules@gmail.com

---

📖 Discovering the beauty of the Catholic Church through the Catechism
MAN’S VOCATION LIFE IN THE SPIRIT – GOD’S SALVATION: LAW AND GRACE – The Fifth Commandment – Respect for human life

Punishment then, in addition to defending public order and protecting people’s safety, has a medicinal purpose…
… as far as possible, it must contribute to the correction of the guilty party. (CCC # 2266)
——————-.

“Remaining committed to the Cross of Christ and celebrating Christianity with conviction!”

(Based on Exod 1:8-14, 22 and Mt 10:34-11:1 – Monday of the 15th Week in Ordinary Time, Year 1)

Every society or organization or a way of life draws up rules and regulations…
… to which its members have to promise obedience.

A faithful commitment to these guidelines will help for the true growth of the society and help the members to genuinely enjoy all the rights and privileges.

Christianity as a Life Style, also has its Rules and Regulations and it demands Commitment!

The Cross forms part of this Basic Rule of Christianity.

The ‘modern’ Christian however, is often afraid and oppose this dimension of Christianity: The Cross!

Bishop Fulton Sheen presents before us this mentality which is fast catching up in our world…

It is termed as Staurophobia… The Fear of the Cross!

The Gospel of the Day is a presentation of the Message of the Cross…
… an invitation to follow the Crucified Christ
… a challenge to faithfully carry the crosses of our life.

Jesus says, “He who does not take his cross and follow me, is not worthy of Me” (Mt 10: 38)

Our Blessed Lord loves to jolt static minds and the inert understandings..

He doesn’t promise cushy comforts…
… He demands Commitment to the Cross!

Those who choose Christianity as a Life Style, ought to be…
Losers of oneself
Be carriers of the Cross
And then Follow Him!

Christianity, as a Life Style, has the Cross as its Basic Rule and it demands Commitment!

But the very mention of the word “Cross”, sometimes puts people off…

“Not again the Cross”
“Enough of pain and suffering”
“We go to Church to relax and be comforted; not simply to hear of the Passion & Anguish of the Suffering Jesus on the Cross; we only prefer the Glorious & Victorious Christ”
“Stop being pessimistic with Sin & Repentance…. Just be optimistic with Joy & Salvation!”

These are often, the “happening” buzz phrases and popular opinions…even in our religious environs.

Staurophobia – the Fear of the Cross …is creeping stealthily but mightily in our lives…

We like to be Saved…
… but we Fear the Cross of repentance of our Sins

We like to receive Blessings…
… but we Fear the Cross of living an honest life

We like to live a peaceful life…
… but we Fear the Cross of trusting in God’s Providence

We like to be prosperous…
… but we Fear the Cross of being generous and compassionate

We like to be called good..
… but we Fear the Cross of being Faithful to the teachings of Christ

We like to have joy…
… but we Fear the Cross of giving up attachments & belong totally to God

Yes, We often, Fear the Cross…

But Christ – Crucified on the Cross – promises His Choicest Rewards to the ones, who dare to take up the Cross…
They will find Life…
They will be rewarded…
They will find true joy and peace…
… says the Lord.

Have we really accepted Christianity as our Life Style?

Then Let us Embrace the Cross..
Let us drive away the Fear of the Cross

Let Staurophobia ( Fear of the Cross) be willfully banished

Let Staurophilia (Love of the Cross) be willingly accepted!

St Camillus says, “Commitment is doing what you said you would do, after the feeling you said it in, has passed”.

Let us remain committed to the Cross of Christ and celebrate Christianity with conviction!

God Bless! Live Jesus!

---

📖 Discovering the beauty of the Catholic Church through the Catechism
MAN’S VOCATION LIFE IN THE SPIRIT – GOD’S SALVATION: LAW AND GRACE – The Fifth Commandment – Respect for human life

Punishment has the primary aim of redressing the disorder introduced by the offense.
When it is willingly accepted by the guilty party, it assumes the value of expiation. (CCC # 2266)
——————-.

“As Christians, being ready to unconditionally shine forth – making a difference in the world around!”

(Based on Deut 30:10-14, Col 1:15-20 and Lk 10:25-37 – 15th Sunday in Ordinary Time, Cycle C)

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

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

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

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

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

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

How about us?

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

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

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

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

This is a parable familiar to most of us…

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Are we sometimes like these robbers…?

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

2. The Philosophy of the Priest and the Levite: “What is mine is mine, and I will keep it”

In the story, we find that the Priest and the Levite “passed by on the opposite side” (Lk 10: 31-32)

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

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

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

Are we sometimes like these Priests and Levites…?

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

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

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

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

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

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

Can I always try to be like this Samaritan…?

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

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

The onus is now on each one of us…

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

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

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

It is only thus that we would be marching forward in our goodwill to firmly follow the commandments to inherit eternal life (Lk 10:25):
“You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your being, with all your strength and with all your mind…
… and your neighbour as yourself!” (Lk 10: 27)

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

God Bless! Live Jesus!

---

📖 Discovering the beauty of the Catholic Church through the Catechism
MAN’S VOCATION LIFE IN THE SPIRIT – GOD’S SALVATION: LAW AND GRACE – _The Fifth Commandment – Respect for human life

Legitimate public authority has the right and duty to inflict punishment proportionate to the gravity of the offense. (CCC # 2266)

“Trust in Divine Providence and His Ever-Beloved Goodness!”

(Based on Gen 49:29-32; 50:15-26a and Mt 10:24-33 – Saturday of the 14th Week in Ordinary Time, Year 1)

How BIG is God in my life?

It is said that…
You can tell the size of God in your life, by looking at the size of your ‘List of Worries’.

The longer your list, the smaller your God!

Every morning we are to rise up to a brand new day…
… with immense potentials, loads of blessings, bundles of hope and treasures of aspirations…

But somehow, many of us, fall into the trap of losing these precious possibilities…
… and allow our worries and tensions and troubles and difficulties and anxieties to overpower us…

St. Francis of Assisi says, “By the anxieties and worries of this life, Satan tries to dull man’s heart and make a dwelling for himself there”

The Lord today, through the Gospel, makes a fervent invitation: To Trust in His Divine Providence and His Ever-Beloved Goodness.

Jesus says: “As for you, every hair of your head has been counted. So do not be afraid…You are worth much more than many sparrows..” (Mt 10:30)

Can we hear those words of the Lord once again…?

He is not lying… He is not flattering..

He is not indulging in heaping empty phrases.

He means it…!
” You Are Worth Much More !!”
… Yes, “YOU ARE WORTH MUCH MORE !!”

The God of Glory, the Lord of Sabaoth (hosts/armies), the Light of the world…
The Creator of the Entire nature, The One who can destroy both body and soul…
… This Great One, today, looks into our eyes….
… and tells us with deep love: “YOU ARE WORTH MUCH MORE!”

Jesus seeks to cast off fear from His followers by showing them the preciousness and value of their lives…
… and how much of important they are to Him.

For this, He presents the example of a sparrow:
“Fear not, therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows” (Mt 10:30)

There is something interesting to be noted when Jesus speaks about sparrows…

In Mt, Jesus says, ”Are not two sparrows sold for a cent?” (Mt 10: 29)
In Lk, Jesus says, “Are not five sparrows sold for a two cents?” (Lk 12: 6)

If two sparrows could be purchased for a cent…
…. then a person should get only four sparrows for two cents, isn’t it?

Then why the ‘fifth’ sparrow?

Probably the fifth sparrow must have been an incentive offered by merchants to get people to buy more sparrows.

The fifth sparrow was probably given, just merely to sweeten the deal!

(Just as sometimes in our days, the shopkeeper/vendor gives an extra/free thing when we purchase something)

Our Blessed Lord used this practice of “buy-four-get-one-free” sparrows to illustrate how much God values life.

He emphasizes that said that not even one sparrow is forgotten before God.

Even a nearly worthless ‘free sparrow’ is not overlooked by God.

Therefore, Jesus says, “Fear not, therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows” (Mt 10:30)

Yes, the Lord says : “YOU ARE WORTH MUCH MORE !!”

Can these words of our Beloved Lord, enter into the depths of our hearts?

Can we savour the sweetness & the greatness, the immensity and the grandeur of these words?

It’s easy of course, to write reflections, to preach sermons, to proclaim orations, to list out bombastic adjectives on this topic…

But at the end of the day…
… it all boils down to simply this:
“Am I accepting myself as really the one who is much worthy and dear to the Lord?”

Do I believe in the God, who believes in me?

Sure, we feel ourselves little before God…

We consider ourselves as unworthy of the Splendid Holiness and Awesome Majesty of God…

But, let us also see how God looks at each one of us….

Let us become aware on how valued and treasured we are to the Lord!

Of course, at the end of this reflection, our list of worries, still, remains the same…

But, let’s realize that we have a much much bigger God than our long list of worries…

A God, who silently thunders in the depths of our hearts…
… assuring His protection: “You are worth much more …”

Are we listening?

St Padre Pio says:
“Even if the world were to capsize…
… if everything were to become dark, hazy, tumultuous…
… God would still be with us!”

Yes, we need to…
… Listen… Trust… Walk!

God Bless! Live Jesus!

---

📖 Discovering the beauty of the Catholic Church through the Catechism
MAN’S VOCATION LIFE IN THE SPIRIT – GOD’S SALVATION: LAW AND GRACE – The Fifth Commandment – Respect for human life

The efforts of the state to curb the spread of behavior harmful to people’s rights…

… and to the basic rules of civil society correspond to the requirement of safeguarding the common good. (CCC # 2266)