Jesus is strange! 

>> And he loves to do strange things!
“Dare to be different” is a call which echoes very much through the corporate sector today, and also in many areas of our life! 

>> And Jesus, certainly, is a model and an example for each one of us, in this ‘Daring to be Different’!
And this strange and daring Jesus – Who loves to do things differently – 

…throws up a classic example for this, in today’s Gospel Reading, by choosing The Twelve…

>>Twelve strange persons to be His Daring disciples. 

We could have a short litany of adjectives to describe or portray these Twelve… 

Let’s get set with a mini-dictionary:

>> Ordinary, Mundane, Shy, Absent-minded, Introvert, Prejudiced, Inhibited…

>> Hated by society, Craver of power, Zealous in quick actions, Betraying Characters…

>> Sceptics, Unsteady Temperaments, Cynical….

The list is long, right? 
Maybe, some of us, also very much possess these characters and traits!

>>  Is it True? 

But, with all these varied personalities and natures, Jesus, the Daring Master, chose His twelve, having these characters…! 

The Lord loves to transform and change… 

>> He changed the water into wine… 

>> He transformed a few loaves of bread and fish as food for thousands… 

>> He changed the raging sea to calmness and serenity… 

>> He transformed sicknesses in people to good health and new vigour… 

>> He changed the static and inhuman view of the Law to a dynamic and loving perception…
Yes, the Lord loves to transform and change…

>> And this Lord, who loves to transform and change, also worked wonders with the Twelve!

These Twelve, with their varied personalities and characters, were handed on the Charge to continue the Gigantic Task of their Daring Master: “To be the Ambassadors of the Kingdom of God”

>> To be with Him and to be sent out

>> To have authority over unclean spirits and drive them out

>> To cure every disease and illness and to preach!
These chosen lights were to cast their rays over the rest of humanity, in all nations.

Are we also hearing the Call of the Lord, to be the Ambassadors of His Kingdom, in the place where we are, in the state of life, that we are in? 

Let us not be worried about our nature or temperament or character or weaknesses.
Yes, the Lord is strange…

… and He loves to do strange things

>> He is CRAZY over us! 

 

The Lord also loves…

… to transform and to change

>> He is Willing to TRANSFORM us! 
The only thing that He needs from us.. is Our Consent.. Our Willingness…our Openness!

>> Let no negative feelings come in the way of this Deep Desire of the Lord… 
Like the Israelites in Hosea 10:1…

…. Let us not boast on our prosperity or our richness

….Let our hearts not remain divided in our loyalty

>>  Let us instead plough a new ground…seeking the Lord…
>> The Kingdom of God is a vineyard…

… it needs labourers!
>> The Kingdom of God is a net…

… it needs fishermen!
>> The Kingdom of God is a field…

… it needs sowers and reapers!

 

>> The Kingdom of God is a flock…

… it needs shepherds! 

Yes, the Lord is calling.. the Lord is desiring.. the Lord is wanting…

>> Are we hearing? 
Let this not remain a Missed Call! 

>> Let’s pick up, and answer…

… and Co-operate with the Strange Master, Who calls us to “Dare to be Different”!

God Bless! Live Jesus!
– Fr Jijo Manjackal MSFS

  Bengaluru, India

A commonly heard story goes thus….

A small town had been “dry” for years.

>> i.e. ‘without any bars or consumption of alcohol’.
But some of the business people, decided to build a bar in that town.
The local Christian group were however alarmed and concerned at this latest development

>> They decided that they would have an all-night prayer to ask God to intervene.
Work on the construction of the bar, progressed right up till the week before opening…

…. when lightning struck the bar and it burned to the ground!

The owners of the bar, enraged, filed a case against the prayer group – to sue them in court.

>> They claimed that the prayers of the group was responsible for the destruction of their bar!

>> They claimed that the people in the church were ultimately responsible for the ruin of the building – either through direct or indirect actions or means. 
The prayer group members however appointed a lawyer to defend themselves

>> They vehemently denied all responsibility or any connection to the building’s devastation in its reply to the court. 
The judge after the initial examination of the case stated thus:

“I do not know how I am going to decide.

But no matter how this case ends, one thing is clear: 

>> It appears that we have some bar owners who believe in the power of prayer…

…but an entire praying congregation that does not!”

How true is not this the case, even in our lives?

>> People who are expected to be having more faith…

… often are seen to live a life of unbelief and distrust in God
>> People who are “inside” the praying circle and the group of faith…

… often have difficulties to simply trust in the power and workings of God

The Gospel of the Day presents before us an incident where this contrast is brought forth…

>> A group of people – the Pharisees – who were intellectually deeper in the scriptures and were expected to know more about the Messiah…

…. failed to recognise and acknowledge the Messianic Power of Jesus 

 
>> The other group of people – simple and ordinary crowds – who followed Jesus and were effortlessly attracted to Him…

… publicly acclaimed and appreciated the mighty deeds of Jesus

The Gospel passage begins with the incident of a man  – dumb and demoniac – who was brought to Jesus (Mt 9: 32)

>> When the demon had been cast out, the dumb man spoke ( Mt 9:  33a)
There were two reactions to this same incident: One was of marvel; the other was of contempt!
>> The crowds – simple and ordinary – who were attracted to Jesus “marvelled and said: ‘Never was anything like this seen in Israel'” (Mt 9:33b)

>> The Pharisees – knowledgeable and intellectual – who often looked to find loopholes in the ministry of Jesus and trap Him, said: “He casts out demons by the prince of demons” (Mt 9: 34)
The same incident – Jesus healing the dumb and demoniac man – was observed and experienced by two different groups…

…. but they generated contrasting reactions and divergent responses!

>> One of them marvelled; the other mocked!

>> One of them had found a reason to praise God; the other found a reason to deride Jesus!

Is this not the case, often , even in our lives too?

>> Very often is this not the phenomena seen with respect to prayer…?
>> People who go to Church seem to be believing less in the power and providence of God…

… people who stay away from pious devotions, often acknowledge the influence of the Divine!
>> People who go regularly to Holy Mass and the Sacraments, often live superficial lives…

… people who stay away, seek to live better and more honestly.
What does this mean?
>> Not that we should stay away from our pious actions, devotions and our activities of faith

>> Not that people who don’t display faith have more reasons to live a good life
But these are reminders and alarms from the Lord…

… to examine our life and activities of faith!

… to check whether my prayer life is actually translated to a living trust in God!

Do the prayers that I make and the devotions that I engage in:

>> Cause me to believe and trust in the providential power of the Lord, knowing that He works out all things for our good…

… or do they just remain mere lip-services and an exercise and custom that I go through, without having any effect on me?
Do the Sacraments that I participate in – especially the Holy Mass and Sacrament of Reconciliation: 

>> Cause me to have a life-transformational experience, every time, and become moments to encounter the Living Lord and His mighty love in my life…

.. or do they become routine rituals and casual ceremonies that I go through, without allowing the Lord to cause any effect or change in me?

 
Do the sermons that I hear, the reflections that I read and the Bible and other books that I meditate…

>> Cause me to reflect on my life, examine my conscience and let go a life of sin…

… or do they merely become aids to help me give pointers for ‘powerful’ sermons and feel a sense of external satisfaction, without taking decisions to also live a life of holiness and sanctity?
 As Christians…

>> It is our duty to know more about the Lord and learn deeper about the elements of our faith…

… but we also need to grow in our life of holiness and live the faith in our practical lives
>> It is our duty to understand Scripture more and know learn about the Church and her teachings…

… but we also need to allow the Scripture ‘to read our lives’ and to help to  love, spread and defend the Church and her teachings to others. 

Which group of people are we in…

>> “Knowing theoretically much about the power of God and scriptures” but failing to recognise and acknowledge His power…?

>> Or simple and ordinary in our faith and belief – seeking to know more about God and scripture- but above all, recognising, acknowledging and thanking the Power of God in life?
Let us seek the intercession of St Antony Mary Zaccaria – a priest and an early leader of counter reformation – whose feast we celebrate today…

… that we may be Christians with faith and belief who can marvel at the works of the Lord.
Let us give heed to his words: 

“That which God commands seems difficult and a burden.

 The way is rough; you draw back; you have no desire to follow it. 

>>Yet do so and you will attain glory.

“Unfurl your flags, for Jesus Crucified will send you…

… to proclaim everywhere the vital energy of the Spirit.”

May we be Christians and “people of prayer and faith” who not just profess and pray with our lips…

… but believe and trust wholeheartedly, with our hearts as well!
God Bless! Live Jesus!
– Fr Jijo Manjackal MSFS

  Bengaluru, India

A little boy had to walk around 2 kms to his school, through the congested and bustling city.
His mother had arranged a servant to accompany the child – while going and coming back from school – to ensure the child’s safety.

>> For this the servant was paid 30 rupees a day.
But when the child reached Third Standard (Grade 3) of school, he rebelled and told his mother:

” I’ll walk myself to school!

And if you give me 10 rupees a day, I will be extra careful. The rest of the money we can save and we all will be better off!”
After sometime of pleading and begging, the little boy finally got his way. 

>> For the next three years, he walked himself – back and forth from school. 

Years later, at a family party, the boy bragged about his independence and boasted to his family about how he had taken care of himself as a little boy, travelling alone to school. 
His mother, on hearing the story, laughed and said:

“Did you really think you were alone?

>> “Every morning when you left for school, I left with you. I walked behind you all the way. 

>> Every evening when you got out of school, I was there. I set my eyes on you and protected you.
I always kept myself hidden; but I was there and I followed you all the way home. 

>> I was always there for you, especially when you needed me!”

Similar is the case of God as well, in our spiritual walk…

…. We are never left alone

… We are always followed by the Lord!
>> There are moments when we think we can manage alone

>> There are other times when we feel there is none with me, in our journey
But the Lord always walks with us…!
He is the “God who accompanies us, in our journey of life!”

The Gospel of the Day is the beautiful incident of God walking with His people, especially in their moments of pain, loneliness and helplessness…
>> A God who accompanies…

… the official whose daughter had died: by bringing life and smile to his family (Mt 9: 18-19, 23-26)

… the woman with haemorrhage: by cleansing and restoring her to health (Mt 9: 20-22)

The Gospel focuses our attention on the “walk” of two persons:

1. The official whose daughter had died: 

“An official CAME FORWARD, knelt down before Jesus…” (Mt 9: 18)
2. The woman with haemorrhage:

“A woman suffering haemorrhages CAME UP BEHIND Jesus….” (Mt 9: 20)

 

The official came walking ‘forward’

>> The woman came walking ‘from behind’
Both were persons in distress and despair

>> Both were suffering physical agony and mental anguish

Human life is characterised in these two persons…

>> The way “forward” is often an uncertain and blurred path, filled with distress and despair

>> The way “from behind” had often been an experience of physical agony and mental anguish
Loneliness plagues us in this walk of life… Hopelessness often overtakes our walk of life!
This arduous walk of life, sometimes causes…

… some of us to give up and call it quits

… some of us to drown ourselves into addictions and unhealthy habits
Some even wish to make it “all alone” in life, thinking I can manage everything by myself

… abandoning even God!

But the official and the woman in the Gospel today show us the way:

>> When the path of life becomes tough with distress and despair…

>> When the journey of life is filled with physical agony and mental anguish…

… “walk forward” towards Jesus – surrendering the future – and plead for help and mercy: like the official!

… “walk from behind” towards Jesus – leaving the past – and touch Him: like the woman!
It is then that we experience and feel the power of the “God who accompanies us, in our journey of life!”

>> The “forward step” of the official towards Jesus, surrendering his future…

… helped him to experience the mighty touch of the Lord in the life of his daughter (Mt 9:25)

… Life was restored; smiles were brought back; good news was spread all over!
>> The “behind” approach of the woman towards Jesus, letting go her past…

… helped her to experience the healing and sanctifying touch of the Lord (Mt 9: 22) 

… Bleeding was ceased; courage was praised; faith was blessed!

The incidents in today’s Gospel passage, invite us…

… to surrender our future to the Lord: knowing that He will render all things for our good, if we trust and co-operate with Him

… to let go of our past to the Lord: knowing that He will touch and heal us, of all our former wounds, if we seek Him with deep desire and longing

Yes, in our walk of life, the Lord tells us:

“Do you really think you are alone?

>> “Every morning when you rise, I am with you. I walk behind you all the way. 

>> Every evening when you rest, I am there. I set my eyes on you and protect you
I sometimes seem hidden; but I am there and I follow you all the way. 

>> I am always there for you, especially when you need me!”
Let us grow in our trust and faith in the Lord and “walk” with Him!

God Bless! Live Jesus!
– Fr Jijo Manjackal MSFS

  Bengaluru, India

>> It takes years to build a character…

…. but a moment to lose it! 
>> It takes hundreds of efforts to build a relationship…

… but a moment to lose it!
>> It takes manifold of words to be known as a good speaker…

… but a couple of words to doom that title!
People cash on one bad remark…

… but thousands of consoling and good words are forgotten!
People talk bad on one negative incident…

… but forget many good deeds and honourable moments!

This is our experience of life, isn’t it?
 

Something similar was and is experienced by an Apostle too…St Thomas.

St Thomas made one remark of doubt…

… and ever since, has been branded, “The Doubting Thomas!”
Often when some raise doubts or make queries, they are remarked, “Don’t be a Thomas!”

>> Am I too judgmental and critical of people?

This is more often the Human Way.

>> But God’s ways are spectacular!
 

Humans remain judgmental, knowing just external factors!
>> God remains merciful even after being fully aware of internal factors!!

But if St Thomas doubted, he has also gifted the Church, with one of the Most Explicit Statements of Faith…

… and has given us all a Simple yet powerful Prayer: “My Lord and My God!” (John 20:28).

On this Feast of St Thomas, the Apostle, let us reflect deeper on his life, and draw inspirations for our personal spiritual life.

When we see the Life of St Thomas, he also had his share of weaknesses, just like all the other apostles!
>> But let’s not exaggerate the weakness of a person…

 … rather, let us focus on Christ and His Mercy and Power.

“Christ chose the foolish of the world to shame the wise, and God chose the weak of the world, to shame the Strong!”(1 Cor 1:27-28)

Human weakness becomes the channel for God’s Grace and Holiness to flow!
>> Holiness is not a human effort…but is God’s grace…
>> Holiness is a gift!

A Gift is given, not earned…

… but once received, one must live a life worthy of that Gift!

It is God who gradually transforms the weak and lowly, into His Image and Likeness, more and more, when we co-operate with His Grace!

St Thomas surely doubted…!
But more than the Resurrection of His Lord…

… he probably doubted the words of his companions.
 

He knew them well.
>> He knew how most of them were shallow in their faith
>> He knew how easily they would get excited at some flashy events!
 

And therefore, St Thomas doubts…

>> He doubts the words of his companions…
>> He chooses to trust none, but the Lord Himself!

And the Lord, who sees the hearts of all, is Himself eager to clarify Thomas’s doubt, perhaps more than the Apostle himself!

As he greets the group of Apostles, Jesus addresses Thomas:

“Put your finger here and see my hands….do not be unbelieving, but believe!” (Jn 20:27)

What would have been going on, through the mind of Jesus, at that point?
 

Probably, the Lord was having a naughty smile & was only glad to oblige Thomas’s stubborn request!
… like a child who throws tantrums to get something, Thomas received the favour of the Lord
… like a child who gets upset on missing something, Thomas is given a special token by the Lord

>> Doubtless, Jesus was not offended by the Thomas’ suspicion, but only wanted to get back his faith in Him!

Did Thomas touch the Lord?
The Gospels do not testify to this touching…(though many of the popular pictures of the Saint do so!)..
>> But the Lord surely did touch Thomas!
Thomas was deeply touched by the Lord’s gesture!
>> Thomas was humbled by the Lord’s humility
>> Thomas was overwhelmed by the Lord’s magnanimous presence and sparkling gaze!
The Shadows of Doubts were cast away….the Glorious Light of Faith and Belief was shining bright!

>> And in faith and marvel, Thomas exclaimed: “My Lord and My God!!“ (Jn 20: 28)

Doubt is not the opposite of Faith…

… it is an element of Faith!

 

We are not alone in my doubts and fears…

>>  There are Apostles and Saints and Great Holy People, who have gone through this crisis.
Let, “Lord, I do believe…help my unbelief”, be our genuine prayer!

May we always pray…

… that we grow in our faith

…. to live & even to Die for the Faith
>> Just like St Thomas, the Great Apostle of Faith proclaimed not just with his lips but also with his life & death: “My Lord and My God!”

Happy Feast of Faith and Belief, Boldness and Courage to all!

God bless! Live Jesus! 
– Fr Jijo Manjackal MSFS

  Bengaluru, India

Great things happen when God mixes with us……” is a popular English hymn
These words express, the great changes and transformations that can take place, when one, accepts the Lord into one’s heart, and lives a life, according to the Gospel!
The Teachings of Jesus is aptly called as Evangelii Gaudium. “ The Gospel of Joy!”

The Gospel of the Day, presents to us a query as to why the Disciples of Jesus do not fast, as was the case with other religious groups like the Disciples of John the Baptist, or even the Pharisees. 

But Jesus presents an Amazing Picture of Himself in His answer: “I am the Bridegroom”! 

>> The Lord presents Himself as a Lover… as the One who is the Beloved! 

The Bible is not alien to the God being presented as the One who Loves: God, the Lover…

>> The Book of Hosea especially presents God as the one who will enter into a deep covenantal relationship with His people. 
>> The Book of the Song of Songs is also a beautiful love-hymn, presenting God as the ultimate Lover!
>> Ezek 16: 8: ” I swore an oath to you, and entered into a covenant with you, and you became Mine!”
>> Is 54:5: “For your husband is your Maker, Whose name is the Lord of hosts”

And in today’s Gospel, this fact is re-iterated: Jesus as the Great Lover!

A question for us… 

>> How is my love-relationship with this Beloved of our Hearts?
>> Am I willing to more and more grow in this awareness, that He is the Bridegroom, who chooses me to be with Him, at His side, at all times?

And when this Beloved, this Bridegroom is with us, we have every reason to be Joyful!  

>> It is to this joy and happiness that the Lord invites us today!

 

The Joy of the Bridegroom also comes with responsibility on our part:

>> To do away with the Old ways of Life, and to put on completely, the Way of the Lord!
“No one patches an old coat with a piece of Unshrinking cloth…

 You don’t put new wine in Old Wineskins…!” (Mt 9:16-17)

If we are to have the Lord as our Bridegroom, we need to completely entrust ourselves to Him.

 

When we love someone, we also follow their commands and their wishes

>> We wish to please them at all times – by our thoughts, our actions and our conduct!

“If you love Me, keep My commands” says the Lord! (Jn 14:15)

Some of the favourite words that our Lord likes are…

…  “all”, “completely”, “totally”, “fully”, “absolutely” etc….
These superlatives are found abundantly in the Bible and especially in the Gospels…

>> “Love the Lord your God with ALL your heart, and with ALL your soul and with ALL your strength and with ALL your mind” (Lk 10: 27)

>> “Offer EVERY part of yourself to God, as an instrument of righteousness” (Rom 6:13)

>> ” Give yourselves COMPLETELY to God” (James 4:7)
Yes, the Lord loves to be loved…”completely”, “totally”, “fully” and “absolutely” 

>> He seeks to be loved with an Undivided Heart! 

>> And He also, in fact, demands, that we totally Give ourselves to Him, and to His Care!

The Lord is in deep love of us…

>> He is our Bridegroom..and today He asserts Himself to be so!
Can I renew my relationship with Him – in faith, in love and in hope?
>> Let us cast away all that is unbecoming of this Love-relationship! 

>> Let us make our heart a new wineskin…our lives a new cloth!
Let this be our prayer: “ Lord, I belong to You,….and to You alone!”

May the acceptance of the Lord into one’s heart…

… cause great changes and transformations

>> And may His presence cause us to sing with conviction: “Great things happen when God mixes with us!”

God Bless! Live Jesus!
– Fr Jijo Manjackal MSFS

  Bengaluru, India

One of the easiest traps in our life, today, is to acquire Cheap Popularity! 

‘Popularism’ is a bane which affects many areas of our life. 
People choose…

… to undermine values

… to forsake principles

… to abandon relations

… to disown doctrines 

… and even to dilute ideologies

>> Just to gain some cheap and shoddy popularity! 

But Jesus came to the world…

>> Not to seek Cheap popularity…

… rather in quest of  Precious Sinners
>> Not to acquire instant Glory…

… rather in granting Everlasting Peace! 
>> Not to please People…

… rather to Honour God!
Jesus was clear in His Mission: To seek the wayward, to find the lost, to grant peace to sinners!
This Mission of the Lord would make Him lose His popularity ratings & reputed recognitions!

But Jesus dared…

… to prioritize Principles over Popularity

… choosing Reconciliation over good Reputation!

The Gospel today begins with the verse:

“…Jesus saw a man named Matthew sitting at the customs post. 

He said to him, “Follow me!” (Mt 9:9)

For the religious elite of the Society, this calling of Matthew, the Tax Collector was a shocking experience! 

>> Tax Collectors were among the most hated people in the Jewish Society. 
Tax collectors were generally despised and tainted and stained on three different aspects: 
1. Nationally Traitors 

A tax collector, “sold himself”, to the foreign Roman government, and was a betrayer of the Nation.

>> One of the top-most nation-betrayers!
2. Morally Corrupt 

Each tax collector had the right from the Roman government to gather taxes.
The more he gathered, the more he could keep!

>> One of the top-most dishonest people!

 

c. Religiously Unclean: 

The constant contact of the tax collectors with the Gentiles made them religiously suspect.

>> One of the top-most impure class!

And it is this Matthew, a tax collector… 

… that Jesus invites to “Follow Him”!

>> An unpopular approach indeed! 
But the Lord is least bothered of  human appreciation and public popularity! 

>> He came to Seek the Lost….and gather the scattered ones! 
And this offer of the Lord, was gladly welcomed by Matthew.. 
He Opened himself to the Love of the Lord….
1. He opened His heart: 

Matthew became a new person. 
Accepting Jesus, meant…

… turning away from his old-ways

… forsaking a good deal of income

… rejecting some of his corrupt business people
2. He Opened His Home: 

Matthew was excited to share his new-found Love, with others too.
The transformation  in one person, became an opportunity, for many others…

… to experience God’s enterprising love

…. and be challenged to undergo a  change!

3. He opened his hands: 

Matthew also opened his hands & worked for the Lord. 
“It could be said, that when Jesus called Matthew, he left his job to follow Christ, but he took along with him, his pen!” 

>> And this would later help him to pen the Gospel…the Gospel according to St Matthew!

The Call of Matthew, was Jesus’ way of telling that things happen in the Kingdom of God…

… not for the Sake of Popularity!
Rather, the Kingdom is an Invitation and a Home to all who find themselves…

… lost, least, broken, rejected, seeking, disturbed!

We all are in one way or the other, facing some of these problems or difficulties in life.. 

>> Let these not discourage us…
As the saying goes: 

Never say, “GOD, I have a big problem!” but instead, “Hey Problem, I have a big GOD!”

 

The Lord is ever-ready to welcome us. 

>> He is least bothered of what others think or criticize!!

>> He values our lives much more than losing popularity! 
Yes, We are more precious to Him, than popularity! 

>> He Loves us!

>> He Values us! 

>> He Longs for us! 
We all can find…

… rest in His Heart

… welcome in His Home

… and strength in His Hands!
Pope Benedict XVI says:

“If you follow the will of God, in spite of all the terrible things that happen to you, you will never lose a final refuge…!

>> Go on, trusting, in the One that loves you.” 
Let us Follow the Lord closely….

… and like Mathew, give our hearts, our homes and our hands – our everything – to Him!

God Bless! Live Jesus!
– Fr Jijo Manjackal MSFS

  Bengaluru, India

There is a funeral custom of a particular Austrian Royal Family.

>> This is in a church in which the Hapsburgs, the former ruling family of Austria are buried. 

It is called the “Knocking Ceremony”

>> The custom takes place at the burial of every member of the Imperial Family before the entrance of the Capuchin cloister church.

When the coffin arrives at the entrance, the Grand Chamberlain knocks three times with a silver cane on the door of the Church which contains the Imperial crypt.
The guard inside asks: “Who is there?”
The Grand Chamberlain proclaims the name and titles of the deceased Hapsburg Emperor: “I am (Name) … Emperor of Austria, Apostolic King of Hungary, King of Bohemia, Dalmatia, Croatia, Slavonia, Galicia…..etc….”
Upon hearing this, the porter refuses to open the door and says:  “I do not know you.”
The Grand Chamberlain knocks on the door again and in answer to the porter’s question “Who is there?” gives just the name of the deceased Emperor: “I am (Name) … His Majesty, the Emperor and the King ”
The guard inside, again refuses admission: “I do not know you.”
For a third time, the Grand Chamberlain knocks on the door and the guard asks: “Who is there?”
This time, the Grand Chamberlain simply says:  “I am (Name)… a poor mortal and a sinner.”
To this, comes the response:  “Come in.”
The progression in the questions and answers shows a progression towards humility.

>> It is only the humble who can be admitted to the Presence of the Lord!
Where there is humility, there is forgiveness of sin and celebration of mercy

>> Where there is only pride, there is criticism of sinners and condemnation of generosity!

 

The Gospel of the Day is a beautiful incident of a contrast of experiences:

>> The humble being received into the forgiving love of God

>> The pride being reprimanded to acknowledge the mercy of God!

The Gospel is the forgiveness and healing of the paralytic, when Jesus comes to His own city (Mt 9:1)

 

Seeing the paralytic being brought on the stretcher, and admiring their faith, Jesus had said:

“Courage child, your sins are forgiven” (Mt 9: 2)

 
However, some of the scribes got annoyed and commented:  “This man is blaspheming” (Mt 9:3)

 

But Jesus, who reads the hearts of all people said:

“But that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins, He then said to the paralytic ,’Rise, pick up your stretcher and go home” (Mt 9:6)

Jesus was seeking to establish an important aspect…

>> Every sin has its evil consequences on a person
It is not that every sickness/evil/ill-happening is a result of sin…

…but the reverse is always true: That Sin always has a negative influence on a person!

The paralytic man was brought on a stretcher by the people (Mt 9:2) for a physical healing
But Jesus demonstrates to the man, his friends as well as to all around…

… that more than physical healing, one needs a spiritual cleansing

… that it is only a spiritual empowerment that can lead to integral material health
This spiritual empowerment…. This spiritual cleansing…

… needs the element of Humility!
Humility is expressed in this incident by the man who “was brought on the stretcher”
>> The paralytic lay in utter helplessness and misery

>> The paralytic was totally vulnerable and powerless 
These elements constitute humility…

… acknowledging one’s helplessness and depending totally on the power of God

… accepting that one is vulnerable and weak and needs God’s strength to be empowered
The scribes who were criticising Jesus failed to have these elements…

>> They instead swelled up in pride and false knowledge

 
Only where there is humility,  can there be forgiveness of sin and a celebration of mercy

>> Where there is only pride, there is criticism of sinners and condemnation of generosity!
Are we sick and paralysed today?

>> Maybe our family and community lives are paralysed by attitudes of indifference, uncaring attitude, arguments and financial difficulties

>> Maybe our personal lives are paralysed by uncertainties, lack of hope and shortage of inspiration and motivation

>> Maybe our societal lives are paralysed by rejection from others, misunderstandings and unhealthy experiences of corruption and injustice.
We need the healing touch of the Lord… We need an empowerment

>> This healing has to primarily begin from the spiritual dimension

>> This empowerment needs to start first from the spiritual perspective
When we go to the Lord in humility, we will be touched from within

… a spiritual cleansing happens and a spiritual empowerment is kindled!
The Lord came into the world, primarily as a Saviour…

… to save us!

>> And He intends that all of us seek Him with this prime motive above all…

… spiritual graces above material blessings

… growth in holiness over prosperity of earthly riches 
One of the most important means that the Lord provides this opportunity to receive His Mercy and Healing is the Sacrament of Reconciliation (Confession)
Just as Jesus forgave the sins of the paralytic and restored him to bodily health…

…  so too Jesus wants the Church, through the Holy Spirit, to continue his work of healing and salvation especially through the Sacrament of Reconciliation

>> The Sacrament of Reconciliation is a Sacrament of Healing!
We need to examine ourselves…

>> Has examination of conscience become part of our daily Christian lifestyle?

>> Do I frequent the Sacrament of Reconciliation more often and thus receive forgiveness of sins and strength for our spiritual life?

>> Do I make sufficient preparation for the Sacrament, and also seek to hold on to the promises and resolutions made at the Confessional?
Every Confession is to become a life-changing experience!

>> Confession is not a license to do more sins

>> Confession is not a permit to living in sin, thinking that “God will anyway forgive!”
The Sacrament of Reconciliation is a great privilege…

… It is also a Sacred Duty and places a moral obligation to seek to grow in holiness!
This Jubilee Year of Mercy is a call to experience the Lord as our Merciful Saviour…

.. and thus to receive healing from Him!
Yes,  let us realise…

… that it is only the humble who can be admitted to the Presence of the Lord!
May we knock at the “Door of the Lord’s presence”, acknowledging in humility, that “we are mortals and sinners”…

… seeking to be healed of all the “paralysis” in our life…
>> And thus, hear the Saviour Lord telling us:

“Take heart, my child, your sins are forgiven!

Rise, take up your stretcher and go home!”

God Bless! Live Jesus!
– Fr Jijo Manjackal MSFS

  Bengaluru, India

“Two roads diverged in a wood, and I?   
I took the one less-travelled by,   
And that has made all the difference”.   

These well-acclaimed and much-celebrated lyrical words from the poem “The Road not taken” by Robert Frost highlight the importance of making critical choices in life.

>> It is our choices that show what we are, far more than our abilities.
>> It is our choices that determines our success in life, far more than our talents.

Being a Disciple of Jesus Christ, is a deliberate choice we make in our lives!
>> This is a choice of “walking the road less-travelled!”

The Gospel of the Day, begins with the verse:
Mt 8:23 – ” Jesus got into a boat, and the disciples FOLLOWED HIM!”

In the preceding verses, Jesus had filtered the massive crowd that was thronging on Him, by placing some demands in being His True Disciple.

And in today’s reading, the Disciples FOLLOW HIM, into the boat!
>> They make a choice of “walking the road less-travelled!”

Now, this sequence is interesting….
1. A large crowd follows Jesus (Mt 8: 18)
2. Jesus places some demands in being a True Disciple ( Mt 8: 19-22)
3. A few Disciples remain – making a deliberate choice – and Follow Jesus in the boat (Mt 8: 23)
4. Though they follow Jesus…the Disciples now encounter a massive storm! (Mt 8: 24)

Is this not, perhaps our experience as well?
1. We seek to follow the Lord, initially, along with others – as in a crowd
2. Jesus then places before us the demands of following Him and how we need to be not merely a “devotee” but also become a “disciple”
3. We choose to remain with Him – making a deliberate choice – and Follow Jesus in the boat, through the waters of this world
4. Though we follow Jesus… as Disciples, we now encounter massive storms!

Is there a storm in our life today??
>> Are there winds of doubt, anxiety, fear, hopeless lashing against the boat of our life?

Though, we have made a deliberate choice to Follow Jesus…
… yet, it seems, the Lord is busy sleeping!

>> The storms hit the boat…
>> Blood Pressure levels go up…
>> The heart starts sinking in Fear…!

In anxiety and trembling we cry:
“Lord, Save us!
… We are perishing!!”

“Lord, Save us!
… My marriage is falling apart and my family life is on the verge of a split!”

“Lord, Save us!
… My friends have deserted me and I feel so lonely!”

“Lord, Save us!
… I have no financial help and emotional support!”

“Lord, Save us!
… My Community life is in shambles and I feel my vocation is in crisis!”

We all have asked such similar queries, in varied ways, and a number of times!

We never question the Lord’s compassion, when things are going on well in life…
>> But we are quick to interrogate the Lord’s presence, when situations hit rock bottom!

But we need to understand and be convinced…
“God’s Power & Compassion is not measured by our circumstances, nor His kindness limited to our understanding!”

>> God loves us… when the tempest is raging and even when the sun is shining bright!
>> God cares for us… when life is happy and full of bliss and even when life has only tears and pains!

Do I trust in this?

The Lord was well aware of the dangers, when He asked them to get into the boat…
>> The Lord is not ignorant…!

The book of Prophet Jeremiah 29:11,14 says: “For I know well the plans I have in mind for you, says the Lord, plans for  welfare, not for woe! Yes, when you seek me with all your heart, you’ll find me, with You!”

As a Disciple of Jesus…
…storms are bound to hit us
…lashes of winds are sure to whack us
…tempests and gales are inevitable in life!

None of them are accidents; but are fully known, in the Will of the Father!
>> He is a Loving Father, a Saving Lord, a Guiding Spirit!

These hardships become occasions…
… when our faith levels are tested
… when our heart needs to grow in greater trust
… when our following of Christ undergoes the assessment of strength
… when we need to check whether any sins are blocking my zeal for the Lord

Let u not be bound to our Little Faith…
>> The Lord of the “sea and the waves and the winds” is by our side…

In His time, He will calm these perils…
We need to wait in patience… in cheerful submission… and in humble hope…
…. to the Providential Care of the Lord, which always saves us!

And when we look back, to those moments of dangers…we realize…
Our Faith has grown stronger, by the storms  we passed through!

Yes, the Lord says: “Fear not, thru the storms of Life…”
>> Let’s Keep believing!
>> Let’s Grow Stronger!
>> Let’s be His Faithful Disciples!

Two roads diverge at every moment in our life
>> A road of the easy…and the road of the hard…

Which one shall we travel by?

God Bless! Live Jesus!

– Fr Jijo Manjackal MSFS
  Bengaluru, India

We are living in an age of an insistent inclination to the “Instant”….

We seek for…
>> Instant Coffees…
>> Instant Food…
>> Instant Juices…
>> Instant Pleasures…
>> Instant Solutions to problems…
>> Instant end to difficulties…
And sadly…even an inclination for Instant Christianity!

Christianity sometimes gets reduced to…
…. Going to Church once in a while especially on a Sunday or a Feast day
… Saying a few prayers time to time
…. Reading a few verses from the Bible.. etc…
>>> And then expecting Instant blessings and favours!

But is this all that Christ intended with Christianity?
>> What does it mean to be a Follower of Christ?

There are various categories or classifications in the job sector.
>> Some do a full time job
>> Some do it part time
>> Some do it on a contract basis
>> Some do it to achieve a target.

Am I a Christian, as a full timer…?
>> Or have I reduced it to a part time affair, or in terms of some contract or promises, or in order to achieve some wants and desires?

The Gospel of the Day is a call to re-look at some of the motives and intentions in our following of Christ.

The Gospel of the Day begins with the verse:
Mt 8:18 – “When He saw the crowd press around Him, Jesus gave orders to cross to the other shore”

The preceding verses in Chapter 8 of the Gospel of St Matthew present Jesus performing many miracles and healings…
… and a “Crowd” being attracted to the Lord.

Where there is a miraculous event, a crowd gathers….

But the Lord, wished to sift this Crowd.
>> He says, ” Foxes have holes, and birds of the air have nests; but the Son of Man has nowhere to lay His Head” (Mt 8: 20)

Jesus does away with any promise of security and comfort
>> He discourages people from following Him for having a better material life!

It was not that He didn’t want many people…
… but He wished to purify their motives & make them authentic in their following Him!
 

He sifts and sieves and strains the “Crowd”…to get together the “Disciples”.

Where there is a miraculous event, a crowd gathers…
>> But when there is an exhortation in being committed to that miraculous event…
… the crowd is filtered…and only the Disciples remain back!

The Lord is asking us today…
Are we just a part of the CROWD…?
… or are we ready to be filtered, and be a DISCIPLE?

It is easy to be part of a Crowd….
>> We can enjoy the occasional miracles
>> We can relish hearing the Word of God

But it is not easy to be a Disciple…
>> The experience of external miracles would be few
>> The Word of God would not just be heard, but also be expected to be lived and practised in life!
>> There would be no guarantee of any security in life
>> Many of the personal desires would have to be left behind…

To be a Disciple is hard…undoubtedly painful…and certainly, demanding
>> But to be a Disciple is also joyful…undoubtedly satisfying…and certainly, exciting!!

The Crowd is Casual…
… the Disciple is Dedicated!

The Crowd is Dichotomous…
… the Disciple is Committed!

What are we going to choose?
To be part of the “Crowd” ?…  an Instant and easy-going Christianity?
… or to be a “Disciple” – an Ever-faithful and committed Christianity?

Your answer please?….. Instantly!

God Bless! Live Jesus!

– Fr Jijo Manjackal MSFS
  Bengaluru, India