An incident is reported that took place a few years ago.

A former astronaut took over as head of a major airline company.

>> He was extremely ambitious to make his company as the best airline service provider.

Once, when this new president was making an inspection of a particular department, he came across an employee…

…resting his feet on the desk, while the telephone was ringing continuously.

“Are you not going to pick up the phone?” queried the boss, with a sense of displeasure.

“That’s not my department!”, answered the employee indifferently!

>> He had not recognized his new boss.

” I work in the maintenance section!”, he replied.

“Huh!” quipped the president, “Not anymore!”

The casual attitude and the laid-back and easy-going approach of the employee cost him his job.

The new boss would not tolerate any people, who failed to show a sense a responsibility and commitment…

… which are essential and undeniable qualities in the pursuit of perfection and excellence!

What about us?

Is our Christian life characterized by responsibility and commitment?

>> Or do we have a casual attitude and a laid-back and easy-going approach?

The Gospel of the Day presents to us a strong reminder by the Lord to take our Christian life seriously…

… with its undeniable duties and its unavoidable sense of responsibility.

Jesus speaks of the coming of the Son of Man at an unexpected time…

… just as the coming of a thief is unknown to the master of a house (Lk 12: 39-40)

What are some of the characteristics of the coming of a thief to the house?

1. It usually happens in the quiet of the night….

… so that no one becomes aware and the setting is perfectly safe

>> There is a sense of ‘anonymity’

2. It takes place when none of the people in the house are expecting it…

… thus leaving them completely startled and unprepared

>> There is the element of ‘total surprise’

3. It happens in areas where there is emptiness or lesser security measures

… thus creating greater potency to danger and sharper damage

>> There is a factor of ‘missed opportunity to take care’

These then are the “loopholes” in our spiritual life, that can cause us to be off-guard…

… when the Lord appears in His Second Coming (just as the coming of the thief in the night)…

>> A sense of ‘anonymity’

>> An element of ‘total surprise’

>> A factor of ‘missed opportunity to take care’

Do we remain “anonymous” to the Lord…

… by remaining ignorant of His teachings and commandments – even though He addresses very often through the Bible and the Church?

… by failing to give heed to the repeated reminders by the Lord through various advices from our caring one, and the guidance we receive through sermons, reflections, messages and life-situations?

Do we get caught with “total surprise” at the Will of God in our lives…

… failing to see the providential hand of God in the struggles and hardships that we undergo?

… entering into a sense of despair and discouragement when things don’t happen the way we plan?

Do we become victims of “missing opportunities to take care”…

… by failing to do the many good works which we can perform, but fail, owing to our slackness?

… by taking the stance of being indifferent in situations of injustice and discriminations?

The Lord clearly warns even in the Book of Revelation…

… “If therefore you shall not watch, I will come to you as a thief, and you shall not know what hour I will come upon you.” (Rev 3:1-3)

Though this passage may cause a sense of fear and insecurity, we also need to consider, the converse…

… that if we are prepared and alert

… that if we are ready and vigilant

>> then the “coming of the Lord” becomes a joyful waiting and an expectant hope!

Nothing fears the one who is prepared, to meet the Lord!

St Paul encourages us through these words: ” But you brothers, are not in darkness, that the day should overtake you as a thief!” ( 1 Thess 5: 2-4)

When we are in the Light of Christ…

… by a constant life of vigilant prayer

… by a faithful life of sacraments

… by a committed life to the Church

>> No darkness can overpower us; No fear of thieves can cause panic!

As Christians, each one us is entrusted the duty of being faithful “employees” of the Kingdom of God!

>> Are we going to “rest our feet on the desk”…

… with a casual attitude and a laid-back and easy-going approach…?

Or shall we be “armed and ever-ready to serve”…

… with a sense a responsibility and commitment…?

May the words of St Francis de Sales, the Patron Saint of the MSFS (on this Foundation Day of the Congregation) be a motivation:

>> “Be what you are, and be at its best!”

Yes.. let us be ready…

>> Our Boss – The Lord – may come anytime….!

Today we also seek the intercession of St Antony Mary Claret, the founder of the Congregation of the Claretians and be inspired by his words:

“Love is the most necessary of all virtues.

Love in the person who preaches the word of God is like fire in a musket.

>> If a person were to throw a bullet with his hands, he would hardly make a dent in anything…

… but if the person takes the same bullet and ignites some gunpowder behind it, it can kill.

It is much the same with the word of God.

>> If it is spoken by someone who is filled with the fire of charity- the fire of love of God and neighbor- it will work wonders.

God Bless! Live Jesus!

Little Jane heard a sermon in church on “Let your light shine!”

She remembered the verse; however, did not understand the text much, until her mother explained: “It means, to be good, obedient and cheerful”

That evening, after coming back from playing with her friends – where she had been a little naughty and mischievous – Jane came back to her mother and said:

“Ma, sorry I have blown myself out!

>> Can you light me again?”

Every Christian is called to become a beacon of light in the darkness and to be a shining star in the ambience of every night.

Is the Light of Christ shining in me?

The Gospel of the Day too shares this aspect and reminds the aspect of being watchful for the Coming of the Lord, by keeping the Light of Christ alight!

>> Jesus said to His disciples, “Be ready, dressed for service, AND KEEP YOUR LAMPS LIT…” (Lk 12: 35)

To keep our lamps lit – is the reminder and challenge of the Gospel today.

At our Baptism, we all have received the Light of Christ.

>> This light, is not just to be preserved…

… but is to be nurtured and fostered daily.

But we live in a world when there are many a winds seeking to put off this light in us.

… we live in a world, where there is a strong engulfing of the darkness, trying to devour the light in us.

What are the different winds that are seeking to put off the Light of Christ in us?

A. The wind of “losing the focus from God”

i. King David

King David was a shining light to the people of his kingdom, as long as he followed the teachings and had his focus on God.

But when he allowed his focus to shift from God, he sinned.

He allowed himself to focus on the object of his pleasure by sinning with the wife of Uriah.

The wind of “losing the focus from God” blew strong to put off the light in him….

ii. Samson

Samson was a shining light of power and might, as long as he was faithful to God and had his focus on God.

But when he allowed his focus to shift from God, he sinned.

He allowed himself to focus on the object of his delight by revealing the secret to Delilah

The wind of “losing the focus from God” blew strong to put off the light in him….

iii. Peter

Peter was a shining light to his disciples as a person of faith, as long as he followed the instructions of his Master to walk on the waters.

But when he allowed his focus to shift from the Lord, he began to sink.

He allowed himself to focus on the object of his fear and self-panic.

The wind of “losing the focus from God” blew strong to put off the light in him….

B. The wind of “being focused on one’s own selfish interests”

i. Saul

Saul was adorned to be the first king of Israel; however, as his reign continued, his own selfish motives began to creep in his kingship.

When he “began to be more self-centered”, he began to lose the approval of God.

The wind of “being focused on one’s own selfish interests” blew strong to put off the light in him?

ii. The Pharisees and Scribes

The Pharisees and Scribes during the time of Jesus, insisted much on their selfish agenda in the imposition and following of the Laws.

When they “began to be more self-centered”, they began to lose the favour of God.

The wind of “being focused on one’s own selfish interests” blew strong to put off the light in them…

iii. Judas

Judas was chosen to be one of the Twelve in the mission of the Lord; but as time grew, he continued to feed his greed for money and wealth

When he “began to be more self-centered”, he began to lose the esteem of God.

The wind of “being focused on one’s own selfish interests” blew strong to put off the light in him…

3. The wind of “false principles and ideologies”

i. People of Israel

The people of Israel had been blessed with the commandments of God. They, however, were dismayed at the delay of Moses on Mt Sinai, and instead got enamoured and attracted to false gods and especially to the deity of mammon and wealth.

When they “began to abandon the True Teaching and attached themselves to false beliefs”, they angered God and brought upon themselves the wrath of the Lord.

The wind of “false principles and ideologies” blew strong to put off the light in them…

ii. People of Galatians 1:6

St Paul accuses the people of Galatia, that were abandoning the Gospel which they first heard, and instead were being attracted to the pleasurable and false teachings of the false prophets.

When they “began to abandon the True Teaching and attached themselves to false beliefs”, they strayed away from the path of salvation.

The wind of “false principles and ideologies” blew strong to put off the light in them…

Let’s examine our own lives…

>> Am I allowing the wind of “losing the focus from God” to put off the light in us?

>> Am I allowing the wind of “being focused on one’s own selfish interests” to put off the light in us?

>> Am I allowing the wind of “false principles and ideologies” to put off the light in us?

As the saying goes, “We can’t prevent birds from flying over our heads, but we can certainly prevent them from laying a nest on our heads!”

We cannot prevent these winds to rage and hit our lives…

… but we can certainly prevent them from blowing off the Light of Christ in us!

This strength comes from our determination, perseverance & commitment…

And above all, being united with Jesus, the Source of Light…

… in daily prayer

… frequent sacraments

… constant nourishment with the Word

… and faithfulness to our daily duties of our vocation and life!

In our moments of failure and weaknesses, let us also have the courage to approach the Throne of God’s Mercy saying:

“Lord, sorry I have blown myself out!

>> Can you light me again?”

May the words of St John of Capistrano – who is called as the “Soldier Saint” – the patron of lawyers and judges, inspire us:

“Those who are called to the table of the Lord must glow with the brightness that comes from the good example of a praiseworthy and blameless life.

>> They must completely remove from their lives the filth and uncleanness of vice.

>> The brightness of their wisdom must make them like the Light of the world that brings light to others!”

God Bless! Live Jesus!

King Louis IV was, from 1643-1715, the King of France – 72 years – which is the longest in modern European history.

>> He boasted himself as “The Great” and even took great pride in calling himself “I am the state”.

The “Great” King had even planned his own funeral to be just as spectacular.

He had instructed Bishop Massillon that upon his death…

>> He was to be laid in a golden coffin at the Notre Dame cathedral in Paris.

>> At his funeral service the entire cathedral was to be completely dark…

… lit dimly by only one candle positioned above the coffin.

This was to be done so that all would be awed by the “Great” king’s presence, even in death.

When he died, Bishop Massillon did exactly as the King had instructed.

At the funeral, thousands of people gazed at the exquisite casket that had the mortal remains of their monarch…

… illuminated by a single flickering candle.

However, as the funeral service began, the Bishop slowly bent down…

>> And to the surprise of all…

… he blew out the candle which represented the late king’s greatness!

Then in the darkness, the Bishop proclaimed to all: ” “Dieu seul est grand – Only God is Great!”

>> It was a rebellious cry to both – the late king and to those who were attending the funeral who had called him “Louis XIV the Great!”

The world very often considers richness in terms of wealth, power and position, isn’t it?

> But not God!

The world very often greatness in terms of worldly success and accomplishments., isn’t it?

> But not God!

How about us?

>> Are we rich and great only in the eyes of the world..?

… or can we instead aspire and seek to be rich and great in the eyes of God?

The Gospel of the Day is a powerful reminder from the Lord on the need to understand the real meaning of “being rich”…

… and an invitation to be constantly on the guard against greed and avarice.

Chapter 12 of St Luke begins with the statement: “Meanwhile, so many people were crowding together that they were trampling one another underfoot” (Lk 12: 1)

Jesus had become a Phenomenon!

>> There were hundreds and thousands of people who were following Him

It’s from among these thousands (the Greek word used is “myriads”) of people, that the voice of one person catches the attention of Jesus.

>> And so we read, “Someone in the crowd said to Jesus, ‘Teacher, tell my brother to share the inheritance with me'” (Lk 12: 13)

We could imagine this situation…

>> Thousands of people crowding…

>> One man manages to shout above others… probably pushing others and comes in front… and puts forward a petition…

It is before the whole crowd (and probably before his brother), that this man wants Jesus to pronounce a favour for him…

… a favour for getting the inheritance and help to get riches

How often is our prayer to Jesus also similar to this man’s request…!

>> We want Jesus to answer our petitions in the way “we want” – to have favours granted in the manner and time that “we want”

The Will of God is often not consulted

And when such “prayers of demand” and “claims of requirements” are not fulfilled or delayed…

… we get into despair and depression

… we accuse that none of our prayers are heard

… we blame that probably God is deaf to us and that our devotions are worthless

The man who made his “prayer of demand” and “claim of requirement” was probably…

… influenced by a greed to be rich and wealthy

… disposed by the vices of avarice and greed

>> He was wanting to have God’s approval for the same!

But Jesus refuses to be dragged into such a controversy…

Centuries back, Moses had been embroiled in an argument and was questioned back:

“Who has appointed you ruler and judge over us?” (Ex 2:14a)

Jesus, aware of this, quoted in a similar fashion, ” Friend, who appointed Me as your judge and arbitrator?” (Lk 12:14)

Jesus had guessed the intentions of this man who put forward the petition…

>> And so He uses the occasion to teach him…and His disciples…

… and to each one of us: On the dangers of holding on to riches – things which are temporary and transient.

Jesus gives the Parable of the Rich Fool, and teaches us…

… It is not bad to work hard and to put in efforts to produce bountiful harvests

… it is not wrong to make use of God-given talents and reap richer produces

However, it is also very essential to examine our attitudes towards prosperity and our attachments towards riches!

It is wrong…

… when we amass earthly wealth and riches without any care for heavenly treasures and spiritual gifts

… when we get pre-occupied only with material matters and neglect the requirements of our spiritual life

… when the pleasures of the body are given higher priority over the demands of the Kingdom of God

The parable teaches us on the dangers of being attached to wealth and riches

>> And challenges us to “Hold lightly, to what God has given us!”

In the light of this parable, we need to check…

… In my personal life

>> Does God have the first place in my life or are there other attachments that are given higher priority, attention and time?

… In our family life

>> Do we thank God for all our blessings and continually depend on Him by cultivating a spiritual culture or are other modern gadgets and social amusements that are given greater precedence?

… in our parish, community and religious life

>> Do we orient all our activities and ministries, solely for the glory of God and the service of the needy, and seek His intervention at every decision or do we play around with Christian values and even dilute or compromise them?

The Scripture constantly calls us to become aware of the worthlessness of earthly riches and calls to aspire for things which are higher in nature:

>> “Vanity of vanities… All is vanity!” (Eccl 1: 2)

>> “Set your minds on things that are above, and not on things that are on earth” (Col 3:2)

God considers richness in terms of doing His Will and following His commandments

> But not the world!

God equates greatness in terms of giving up our attachments for His sake and taking up our Cross daily

> But not the world!

We are faced with this choice, at every moment….

>> Are we rich and great only in the eyes of the world..?

… or can we instead aspire and seek to be rich and great in the Eyes of God?

Let us always remember: “Only God is great!”

… and that all our works and activities ought to be always oriented solely towards the Glory of His Greatness!

We seek today the intercession of Pope St John Paul II, arguably the most-popular and loved Pope of our times.

>> His convincing life, uncompromising teaching and courageous words are a challenge and inspiration to all of us…

… “What really matters in life is that we are loved by Christ and that we love Him in return. In comparison to the love of Jesus, everything else is secondary. And, without the love of Jesus, everything is useless.”

… “It is Jesus that you seek when you dream of happiness; He is waiting for you when nothing else you find satisfies you; He is the beauty to which you are so attracted; it is He who provoked you with that thirst for fullness that will not let you settle for compromise; it is He who urges you to shed the masks of a false life; it is He who reads in your hearts your most genuine choices, the choices that others try to stifle.”

God Bless! Live Jesus!

“Follow the Leader” is a game that is often played as part of group games or group activities among children, youngsters and even adults.

The game consists of a person who acts as a leader, and rest of the members, “Following the Leader” in the actions

>> When the leader claps hands… the members are also to clap hands

>> When leader lift his hands and wave… the members are to also follow.

In life, we often play this “Follow the Leader” game.

>> Children imitate what their parents do – the walking style of the father or the hair style of the mother is often “followed” by the kids

>> The teaching style or method of the teacher is followed by the students

>> Fans imitate the style and fashion of their favourite heroes/heroines

Our Spiritual Life necessities that we “Follow our Leader” – Jesus – in thought, word and deed!

Do we have clarity and proper understanding on what kind of a Leader is Jesus and what are His Actions?

>> What is the “Image of Jesus” that we are nurturing in ourselves?

The Gospel of the Day presents two of the members of the Group of Jesus, who, having a lower understanding of the Person of Christ, fail to “Follow the Leader”…

… and are exhorted by the Lord to refine their thought-pattern and encouraged to “Follow Him” with enriched clarity and deeper passion.

The passage begins with James and John, the sons of Zebedee – two among the twelve chosen ones – placing this request to Jesus: “Teacher, we want you to do for us, whatever we ask” (Mk 10: 35)

This question gives us a glimpse of what was the Image of Jesus that was being perceived by the Disciples.

… Seeing the many miracles and wonders being performed by the Lord made them feel that Jesus, being a powerful person, could grant any of their heart’s desire

… Seeing the bold and uncompromising preaching and attitude of the Lord made them feel that Jesus, was to be a great Political Messiah

… seeing the challenging and clear-cut understanding of the Lord with respect to the Law and practices of the religion, made them feel that Jesus was a Great Religious Leader.

This was the case not only with James and John, but also the other disciples.

That is the reason, after this incident, though the other ten felt indignant at the two (Mk 10:41), Jesus would address this issue commonly to all

>> Even other times, the disciples themselves had been involved in talks of discussing about “who is the greatest among them” (Lk 22:24, Lk 9:46)

Jesus, however, makes it very clear to them, that they had still not been clear in their understanding of Who He was…

… Jesus said to them: “You do not know what you are asking!” (Mk 10:38a)

The Lord drives home the point directly:

If you are looking at me as Someone Who only fulfills your material and earthly desires…

… then you need to elevate your thought pattern

>> “Seek first the Kingdom of God, and His righteousness, and everything else will be given unto you!” (Mt 6:33)

If you are expecting me as Someone Who wants to establish a political kingdom and bringing only social changes…

…then you need to realize that My Mission is greater

>> “The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me because He has anointed Me to bring glad tidings to the poor…” (Lk 4:18)

If you are feeling that I am Someone Who only wants to clear up the religious clogs that have been burdening the people…

… then you need to understand that I have a Bigger Duty

>> “I have come down from Heaven, not to do My Own Will, but the Will of the One Who sent Me…

… For this is the Will of Father that everyone who sees the Son and believes in Him, may have Eternal Life” (Jn 6:38, 40)

Jesus makes His Image very clear to the disciples: “The Son of Man did not come to be served, but to Serve and to give His Life as a Ransom for many” (Mk 10:45)

This ‘key-verse’, presents the Four Dominant Images of Jesus in the Gospel of St Mark:

… Son of Man (Jesus – the SON)

… but to Serve (Jesus – the SERVANT)

… give His Live (Jesus – the SACRIFICE)

… as a Ransom for many (Jesus – the SAVIOUR)

Prophet Isaiah prophesied this Image of Christ in his writings:

“He grew up like a sapling before Him (SON)… through His Suffering (SACRIFICE), my servant shall justify many (SERVANT), and their guilt He shall bear (SAVIOUR)” (Is 53: 2,11b)

What about us?

What is our Image of Jesus…

… and what are the requests with which we approach Jesus?

>> Are they merely materialistic and earthly desires?

Many times, like the Disciples…

… we tend to be self-seeking and world-bound in our desires

… we look for gains and prominence, as a reward for being a Christian

If so, then the Lord says, we need to…

… elevate our thought patterns

… realize that His Mission in us, is greater

… and understand that He has a Bigger Duty in our life.

He knows that we are sometimes selfish… jealous… power-seekers

>> But let’s realize and take hope in the fact, that it’s for all of us, who are with these weaknesses, that Jesus primarily came to the world:

“ I did not come to call the righteous, but sinners!” (Mk 2:17)

The disciples asked for position and power…

… Jesus said: “I will give you much higher – MY SERVICE”

The disciples asked for prominence and greatness …

… Jesus said: “I will give you much bigger – MY LIFE”

This is the action of Jesus – our Leader

… Responding to desires of selfishness, with ACTS OF SELF-GIVING

… Responding to tones of jealousy, with ACTS OF SACRIFICE AND LOVE

… Responding to queries of earthly desires, with ACTS OF HEAVENLY DELIGHTS

The game is on… “Follow the Leader”

>> Shall we imitate these Actions of Jesus, our Leader?

Get… set… go…!

God Bless! Live Jesus!

A little girl told an older friend that she was going to give her Father, a pair of slippers for his birthday.

“But where will you get your money?” asked the friend with concern.

The little girl opened her cute eyes wide and said:

“Why, Father will give me the money!”

For a moment the friend was silent as she thought that the father would have rather bought his own birthday present.

But then she realized, that the Father would love and appreciate the gift, given by his little daughter…

… even though he paid for it himself!

How many of us realize that “by ourselves we are nothing” and that everything is given by God – as a gift?

>>> How many of us, instead, get “attached” to material things as our own possession – and drown ourselves into the sea of sadness and gloom, when we are made to part with it?

The Gospel of the Day presents a teaching by Jesus on having proper disposition towards wealth and riches…

… with an exhortation to live a life of detachment, for the sake of the Kingdom of God.

We have the familiar passage of a young man, who approaches Jesus with a query, “… what must I do to inherit eternal life?” (Mk 10:17)

Here is a man who had wonderful qualities, but probably had got some of his basics wrong…

He was a person interested in seeking the higher things of life…

… therefore he enquires about eternal life

>> But perhaps, he had a “calculative” notion of salvation – like a “check-list” which had things to be marked off – which assured and guaranteed him of salvation.

… The aspect of God’s Mercy and His Will was, probably, forgotten!

He was a person, who paid attention and gave much value to the commandments of God, in his life

>> But perhaps, he had got into a ‘legalistic mode’ which made him to assiduously follow the letters of the Law

… The aspect of translating the laws into practical acts of setting one’s heart on the Lawgiver was, probably, forgotten!

He was a person, who was persistent in seeking an answer from the Lord and had a great deal of confidence in his personal convictions and beliefs

>> But perhaps, he had donned a “materialistic garb”, which caused him to find it difficult to part with his material possessions

… The aspect of giving the priority to the richness of the Kingdom of God was, probably, forgotten!

It’s interesting to note the observation made by St Mark, when the man sought to justify his life of righteousness…

St Mark says, “Jesus looking at him, loved him and said to him….” (Mk 10: 21a)

It was a look of immense love and compassion…

… The Creator looking on the marvel of His creation

… The Law Giver looking on the one who sought to follow the law closely

… The Father looking on the child who is deeply loved and cared for

With this deep look of love, Jesus makes another powerful statement to the one whom he loved, “You are lacking one thing. Go, sell, what you have, and give to the poor and you will have treasure in heaven” (Mk 10: 21b)

True love makes a demand…

>> True love demands perfection…

>>> True love perfects the one who is loved…

Jesus, who loved the man much, wants him to be the best and perfect – in his love for God and in following Him.

But the young man had his countenance fallen…

… and he went away sorrowful (Mk 10: 22)

How often, we struggle when our Loving God demands perfection from us…

… by asking to “let go” of certain aspects in life, in order to have His Will fulfilled

… by demanding of us to be detached from material possessions, in order to let Him be the treasure of our lives

Our lives are nothing, but a gift from the Lord.

The wealth we enjoy…

The comforts we take pleasure in…

The talents with which we engage in many activities…

… are all a gift from God… to be utilized, nurtured and cherished, for the glory of God!

> None of us have any right to be possessed by it…

> None of us will find true joy in being obsessed with it…

As the Psalmist says, “I said to the LORD, ‘You are my Master! Every good thing I have, comes from you.’ (Ps 16:2)

Let the verses of the First Reading of the Day be our constant disposition:

“I prayed and understanding was given to me.

>> I called upon God and the Spirit of Wisdom came to me.

I preferred her to scepters and thrones…

… and I accounted wealth as nothing in comparison with her!” (Wis 7:7-8)

May we realize that “by ourselves we are nothing” and that everything is given by God – as a gift!

>>> May we earnestly seek and make efforts to get “detached” from material things – and enjoy the bliss and peace that comes from having the Lord alone, as our greatest treasure!

God Bless! Live Jesus!

A highly skilled engineer had been confined to his bed due to a paralysis of the lower limbs.

So great was his reputation, that once, he was asked to draw the blueprints for a great suspension bridge.

With much determination, the engineer completed the blueprints and handed it over to those who were to carry out the work.

Months passed by…

… and the work of the bridge was completed.

Four men came to the engineer’s room and carried him, on the cot, to the place…

… from where he could see the bridge, suspending over a wide river

Tears filled his eyes as he gazed at the engineering marvel…

… and with the blueprints in his hands, he cried out:

“It’s just like the plan! It’s just like the plan!”

God, the Great Engineer, has his blueprints for each one of us, in our lives…

… His Holy Will!

Do we build our lives as per this blueprint?

The Gospel of the Day invites us to have our wills in harmony with this blueprint…

… the Will of God!

In today’s Gospel, a woman from the crowd calls out to Jesus, “Blessed is the one who bore you and nursed you” (Lk 11:27)

This woman had probably been following Jesus for sometime or had observed some of His works or had heard about Him.

>> This greatness of the Man was attributed to His Mother.

The woman had probably a driving principle behind this thought, “Behind every successful man, there is a strong woman…constantly supporting and nourishing”.

>> Mother Mary was recognized and understood as this Woman behind the success of Jesus!

Let’s just visualize how Jesus would have felt when He heard these words…

>> Every child is proud and to hear good of one’s parent…

… especially about the mother.

Jesus too, would have been very proud and happy of His Mother.

He would have thought of the moments that His Mother…

… would have taught Him various prayers

… would have taught Him the scriptures.

… would have taught Him to love God

Jesus surely had many things to thank and praise His Mother.

>> But the Lord doesn’t remain fixated on the level of mere human praise and efforts…

The Lord loves things of the High….and His concerns are of the High!

>> And so, he invites and challenges the woman to look higher…

“Surely blessed are those who hear the Word of God and keep it as well” (Lk 11:28)

The Lord was probably telling the woman…

“Yes, surely my Mother is truly great for Her tender care of me.

She is indeed wonderful for Her amazing upbringing of me.

>> But My Mother is great, not just because of these earthly factors…

There is much more…

>> There are many more reasons which makes Her truly great.

She is blessed because…

… She listened to God’s Word and accepted it wholeheartedly.

… She was obedient to God though she did not understand many things

… She chose to put Her faith in God, though the path ahead was dim

… She lived and shared the love that she received from God.”

The Lord made the woman to not just be satisfied with transient, material aspect, but to have a higher perspective in life.

The same message is reached out to each one of us today….

>> Am I a person who is simply satisfied with only the concerns of the material world?

>> Am I a person who remains stunted on just listening to God’s word, but not practising it?

>> Am I a person who fails to fly higher, to also be concerned with the aspects of the Divine?

>> Am I a person who is excited to hear and listen to the Bible, but afraid to live it in my life?

God has his blueprints for each one of us, in our lives…

… His Holy Will!

Do we obediently carry out our works, as per His plan?

May this Great Engineer, seeing our lives…

… and with the blueprints in His hands, exclaim:

“It’s just like the plan! It’s just like the plan!”

God bless! Live Jesus!

A Christian preacher was once invited to preach in the court of a notorious and malicious King.

As he stood up to preach, he heard a voice – his mind telling him:

“Be careful, of what you speak. The King of the Land is here!”

In a few seconds, he heard another voice – of his conscience:

?Be careful of what you do not speak. Your conscience demands of you!”

In a confused state, he heard yet another voice – in the depth of his heart:

?Be not afraid of what you speak!

The King of kings is with you!”

Preaching the Gospel is a bold and a courageous task… and unless one is really passionate and fervent about it, one cannot do justice to the message and the person of the Gospel!

The Gospel of the Day gives a subtle yet strong message on the need to stand firm in being a Messenger of the Gospel…even if one faces criticism or mockery or rejection or indifference.

Our Master, Jesus Himself had to undergo this negative reaction.

The Gospel presents how some people, on seeing Jesus cast out demons, accused him falsely and sought to test him by asking for a sign from heaven.

In the Gospel of Luke 4: 18, in the Nazareth manifesto, Jesus declared that “He has come to bring glad tidings to the poor, to proclaim liberty to the captives…”

In fulfilment of this program, Jesus went about bringing the message of joy and hope to the ones lost and the wretched.

>> He also went about casting many evil spirits and freeing many possessed people from the shackles of the evil.

> When goodness spreads, the power of evil also raises its ugly head more…

> When righteousness is proclaimed, the claims of the evil also keep increasing…

> When the Kingdom of God is announced, the realm of the devil gets more agitated…

Though the people saw the immense goodness and love being extended by Jesus, some of them purposely sought to find fault with the Lord.

Yet, Jesus remains…

… the reed unshaken.

… the power unconquered.

… the conviction unquaked.

> He was sure of His mission.

> He was convinced of His goals in life.

> He was certain of the purpose of His ministry.

Though His ministry and His works were badly attacked, Jesus does not get bogged down..

… Rather, He finds the way out through the maze of tricky situations, unappealing factors and even discouraging circumstances.

The Lord today teaches us a very powerful lesson for our Christian Life in this world and for all our works and ministries that we engage in…

There will be times when many people accuse and insult us…

>> Can I remain firm and strong in my convictions and principles?

There will be times when, though we do much good, people fail to understand us…

>> Can I still be strong enough to render the good in the places it is required?

There will be times when we are totally misunderstood and blamed, though we are innocent…

>> Can I find the strength and the courage to not get disappointed or crumbled in sadness?

There will be times when we feel like discontinuing everything due to pressures and loads…

>> Can I push myself above all these situations which paralyze and cripple us?

The Lord today teaches us by His life and example and words that…

…Life has much to offer when we are strong.

…Life has much to be strong about.

…Life has much to rejoice in.

The Lord declares, “Whoever is not with me is against me, and whoever does not gather with me, scatters” (Lk 11:23)

As Christians, we have a duty and a responsibility to stand firm in our beliefs and faith in the Lord, despite any storms that crash against the boats of our life!

When we are truly filled with the power of the Spirit, like Jesus, we too are able to stand firm against the forces of discouragement and disappointments!

Let us grow deeper in the Lord… Let us be filled more with the Holy Spirit…

Life will throw bricks at us…but it depends on us…

… whether we choose to get bruised and wounded and crumble under it

… or whether we build a castle out of those same bricks!

Let us not be afraid… The King of kings is with us!

God Bless! Live Jesus!

Postal stamps seems to be slowly on the verge of extinction.

>> Some decades back, however, they formed an integral part of the world of communication.

These postage stamps hold an important attribute that we could emulate: they stick to one thing until they get there!

>> They remain persistent until, they reach their destination!

This is an important key in our spiritual life as well: Remaining persistent, till we reach our destination!

The Gospel of the Day presents before us the theme of Prayer with a special emphasis on perseverance and determination in prayer life.

This aspect of persistence in prayer through a parable:

>> A parable of a friend who knocked at the door of his friend at an odd midnight hour…seeking for some help.

Prayer invariably points to the notion of Necessity and Dependence in our lives: A necessity for various things…and a Dependence on God

>> A necessity of realizing our limitations…

… and a Dependence on the power of God

>> A necessity of moving out of our capabilities..

… and a Dependence on the strength of God

>> A necessity of knowing all things not possible for me…

… and a Dependence on the grace of God

For a moment, let us get into the shoes of this friend who faced this need of an unexpected traveler in his house…and thus forced to seek for help…

This man received an unexpected guest…

Probably, it was the end of all the chores of his day…and as he was retiring to bed, this traveler came to his house.

His condition was so pitiable that he did not even some morsels of food to be given.

>> He had the good will…

… but did not have the resources to help.

>> He had the good intentions…

… but did not have the supplies to assist.

Very often, we ourselves land up into such situations…

Perhaps someone drops in for a coffee…and lays bare their problems…

>> But we feel totally helpless how to help…

Perhaps we get a letter or a message…informing of some serious crisis…

>> But we feel totally helpless how to help…

Perhaps our close ones undergo some pain…and life becomes hard…

>> But we feel totally helpless how to help…

Perhaps we see many in absolute suffering…and our heart reaches out to them..

>> But we feel totally helpless how to help…

We ask ourselves: “What can I do?”

>> There is a strange, sinking sensation… a sense of pressure, almost terror: “What shall I say?“

The best you can do is just hope for a quiet moment when you can rush to God, our Great Neighbour and cry out to him, “A friend has come, and I have nothing to set before him.“

This happens often, doesn’t it?

It is out of such moments of deep necessity that true prayer is born.

>> It is out of such moments of genuine dependence that true prayer is born.

But that does not mean, that God, our Great neighbour has to be awakened from his slumber or who has to forced to render us help.

The point of the parable is that as a Person who is in necessity and who is dependent, ought to have a great level of patience & perseverance & determination.

In prayer, it often happens that we determine…

… the way

… the time

… the mode

… in which God should answer our requests!

But we often forget, that, the Great Neighbour, God…

… is also our loving Father.

… is also the One who cares deeply for us.

… is also Someone who wishes the best for us.

In Lk 11: 9, Jesus gives us the exciting verse, “Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you.”

ASK…SEEK…KNOCK…all these three verbs indicate a continual process and a constant action.

“Keep on asking…keep on seeking…keep on knocking”.

The Lord is a Loving Father…

>> He does not demand perseverance because of some hard-heartedness..

Rather, He expects consistence and perseverance because of His deep and tender Love for us and wanting us to not get bogged down by mere material concerns…rather to SEEK HIM above all in prayer and to make HIM the greatest need of our lives!

St. Teresa of Avila says:

“Provided that we don’t give up, the Lord will guide everything for our benefit…!

There is no other remedy for this evil of giving up prayer than to begin again!”

Like postal stamps which have this key attribute: Remain persistent until, they reach their destination…

… may we grow in our perseverance and determination in prayer.

Today we seek the intercession of Pope St John XXIII – one of the most popular Popes of the 20th century – on this feast day.

>> He was the one who convoked the historical ‘Vatican Council II’, which paved the way for “throwing open the windows of the church, to let the fresh air of the Spirit blow through.”

Let us give heed to his words: “Prayer is the raising of the mind to God.

>> We must always remember this. The actual words matter less.”

God Bless! Live Jesus!

A certain person who was known to be a “person in hurry always”, was part of a prayer meeting.
One day, he was asked to make the prayer before the meeting.

Being known for being a “person in hurry always”, he made a short prayer – classic in brevity and beautiful in preciseness:

“Dear God, Let Your Will be done…
Nothing more, nothing less, nothing else.
Amen!”

Seeking to do the Will of God, at always times…
… and living according to It, is the key to our faithful Christian living.

The Gospel of the Day is an exhortation towards this aspect through the prayer – The Our Father…
… with the key dimension of “forgiveness and pardon”.

The Eleventh Chapter of St Luke opens with a teaching on prayer.

This teaching begins with Jesus presenting the blueprint in praying- the beautiful prayer “The Our Father”.

The Lukan version of the Our Father has five petitions:
1. Hallowed be thy name
2. Thy Kingdom come
3. Give us today our daily bread
4. Forgive us our sins
5. Do not subject us to the final test

The fourth petition – for forgiveness – is also accompanied with a clause – “…as we forgive”..
“…and forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors” (Lk 11: 4)
… forgive us our sins, as we forgive those who sin against us!
… forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us!

Well, does this mean God’s forgiveness is conditional?

It needs to be understood, that God , in His infinite mercy and goodness, has always the store of forgiveness, unconditionally opened for us!

But..
>> To receive this treasure of forgiveness, we need to first forgive others!
>> To receive this grace of pardon, we need to first pardon others!

It means that…
>> If we harbour a wrong against other…
>> If we continue to nurture hatred against other…
>> If we wilfully fail to extend absolution to the other…
>> If we adamantly keep having repulsion against the other…
… then we are telling God to not forgive me either!
…then we are telling God to not shower His blessing on me!
…then we are telling God to withhold His unconditional mercy on me!
….then we are telling God to stop extending His unconditional compassion!

It is this aspect of “forgiveness” that becomes highly essential and conditional…
… in our desire to do the Will of the Father, at all times, and living a faithful Christian life.

The prayer – “Our Father” is indeed one of the most easily learnt and widely used prayers.
>> But this clause of the prayer, which is often overlooked, also makes this prayer dangerous!
>> This clause of the prayer, which is often not thought of, also makes this prayer challenging!

Let the prayer ‘Our Father’…
… help us to make inroads into forgiving others!
… make us to march forward into extending pardon to others!

With forgiveness and mercy in our hearts, may we seek to echo, at all times…
“Dear God, Let Your Will be done…
Nothing more, nothing less, nothing else.
Amen!”

God Bless! Live Jesus!

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… mould 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?

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

2. 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!