Week after HOLY TRINITY Sunday

 

---------- Forwarded message ---------
From: Fr. Thumma Mariadas Reddy MSFS <thummamsfs@gmail.com>
Date: Sun, 30 May 2021, 09:54
Subject: 31 MAY – 05 JUNE 2021:HOLY MASS REFLECTION
To: Fr. Thumma Mariadas Reddy MSFS <thummamsfs@gmail.com>

31 MAY – 05 JUNE 2021: HOLY MASS REFLECTION

 

31 MAY 2021: VISITATION OF MARY, ROMANS 12. 9-18; LUKE 1. 39-56

 

Focus: Mary’s visitation to Elizabeth is not just an individual visit but symbolizes the very visitation of God Himself to humanity, with His gracious face, turned toward suffering humanity

 

1.     Mary visits Elizabeth, and this visitation is very significant. It is not just a courtesy visit. It is not only a great act of charity and service to Elizabeth in need during her pregnancy. It is deeply symbolic and efficacious. It indicates the very visitation of God Himself, and the actualization of its effects on humanity. In the Bible through the history of salvation, visitation of God signifies His active and liberating intervention in the life of His people. Accordingly, “God visits” signifies that God is encountering and gracing that person or that community. Today in the visitation of Mary, the same happens: The Saviour, conceived in Mary’s womb, visits Elizabeth and graces her and her family, who symbolizes the whole humanity.

2.     Mary is the perfect embodiment of God’s will and presence. She is the abode of Jesus. She bears him within and shares him with others. She carries him in her and extends the same experience with others. What happens when God visits humanity in the person of Mary? This is what is concretely seen in the scene of the Visitation.

3.     At the sight and encounter with Mary, two things happen: Elizabeth is filled with the Holy Spirit, and the babe in her womb leaps with joy. Jesus is channeled and mediated, transmitted and extended through Mary. Consequently, she gives the Holy Spirit and joy.

4.     Thus, the effects of visitation are quite clear: Holy Spirit and joy. In fact, these two are the greatest signs and testimonies to having the presence and the experience of God: we are able to transmit the Holy Spirit to others and move and fill others with the same Spirit, and we are able to ignite others with true and deep joy.

5.     But whenever we spread only evil spirit and unhappiness to others, it is a clear sign that we are not bearing Jesus within us, and we do not carry God’s experience and presence.

6.     May the Mother Mary who visited Elizabeth continue to visit us, as God’s channel of grace! May she be a model and inspiration for us! May she sustain our tiny steps and efforts in carrying and spreading God’s Spirit and joy to all others!

 

01 JUNE 2021: TOBIT 2. 9-14; MARK 12. 13-17

 

Focus: God placed us on this earth, to be responsible and dutiful, both toward earth and heaven. It is not a matter of compromise but a harmony

 

In the gospel today, we have very practical teaching and guideline of Jesus about how to conduct our life on this earth: “Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s”. How to understand this directive? Some, out of their overenthusiastic secularity may interpret it as balancing between the world and God. The danger with this secularized mentality will be to infiltrate worldliness into spirituality. The argument will be simple: “We are living on this earth and in this world. Therefore, certain things are demanded of us; we are bound by some earthly ways and concerns. We need to follow certain standards and values of the world; we are both citizens of the earth and also of heaven” This type of presentation of the argument appears very valid and appealing. Consequently, we find a lot of compromise on the values of Jesus and the duties of a Christian.

This saying of Jesus certainly invites us to shun such a spirituality that is indifferent, unconcerned, and uninvolved toward the world. Such a spirituality and Christian life are overly other-worldly neglecting the present concerns and commitment. Jesus never neglected his duties as a responsible human person, as a citizen of a particular society, as a partaker of a given culture. Therefore, as true followers of Christ, we have a duty and responsibility toward mother earth, and toward humanity. We must be committed to the well-being and well-doing of the world. We are obligated to create “new heavens and a new earth”. We are duty-bound to establish God’s kingdom here and now. This world is our mission field. We cannot escape from our human and missionary responsibility in the name of faith and spirituality. In fact, our very faith and mission commit us to the renewal of this world.

However, this responsibility toward the world does not mean that we share everything of the world. Especially, we should always insulate ourselves against all that is evil and false. We are in the world, not to be tainted by it, but to cleanse and renew it.

Therefore, to be responsible toward earth and heaven would mean to constantly exercise a wise discernment between these twofold duties. In this process, the praise of the Pharisees and Herodians, to please Jesus would hold good. Surely they were flatteries out of hypocrisy, intended to trap Jesus. But they can serve as guidelines for us. Hear what they tell Jesus: “Teacher, we know that you are true, and care for no man; for you do not regard the position of men, but truly teach the way of God”. Though they did not mean these compliments, yet they are profoundly true.

 

Direction: As citizens of the earth, we are called to follow these guidelines drawn from Jesus’ character: Be true and honest. Be fair, unprejudiced, and undiscriminating. Treat all with respect and a sense of equity. Always guide others on the way of God.

 

02 JUNE 2021, TOBIT 3. 1-11, 16-17; MARK 12. 18-27

 

Focus: To be faithful is to be full of faith, that is, to be filled with the power of the Spirit to remain in faith and trustworthiness 

 

Our God is a God of the living and not of the dead. As long as we live in Him, we have life. But when we live in sin, we are dead though physically alive. We as faithful people are called to carry this life within us. It is a call to live by the power of this life, to nurture it, and to bear witness to it. How to live and witness this godly life? First of all, it is by being humble and conscious, and repentant about our human sinfulness like Tobit. Then, it is by not being intimidated by the pressures and assaults of the evil, as in the case of Tobit or Sarah who is weighed down by the unjust reproaches of the people; or as in the case of Jesus whom the Sadducees tried to corner with the question on the resurrection. Then, it is by surrendering all the anguish to God and plead for His intervention and mercy.

Appreciable is the spirit of deep faith and surrender of both Tobit and Sarah, the daughter of Raguel. Unjustly for no fault of theirs, they were blamed and slandered by the people. Tobit was accused of sin as the cause for his loss of sight, and Sarah, for the death of her husbands. But, they do not blame God. They do not curse the people. They do not lose faith in God, as if He is dead and not bothered. They do not question Him claiming that they are just and their suffering is unjust as many of us do. They feel completely helpless but not to be depressed but to totally surrender themselves to God.

In the light of the gospel, these were like the resurrected people, who are not bound by mere earthly restrictions or attachments. They rise higher and operate in a higher realm, like the angels in heaven. These always do God’s will and obey His commands. Obviously, the criteria of heaven are different from those of the world!

 

Direction: The life of resurrection can already be anticipated and foretasted here on earth itself, provided that we live like angels. That is, with detachment from all the binding ties of the earth and with singular attachment to God

 

03 JUNE 2021, TOBIT 6. 10; 7. 1, 9-14, 8. 4-8; MARK 12. 28-34, Memory of St Charles Lwanga

 

Focus: Love is like breath to life, like a heartbeat to heart, like movement to the body, like consciousness to the spirit, like thinking to mind, like a decision to will. It is the essence of an authentic human person and believer

 

So much is spoken about love and at the very same time, so little is done about it. Love is the most needed and it is also the most disused and abused. Often, lust and selfishness are promoted in the name of love. Today, once again, Jesus clarifies, certifies, and rectifies our whole way of life and religion by the principle of love. He reiterates love as the greatest commandment. It is not only a rule of religion. It is not a spiritual law alone. It is the essence and quintessence of the whole of human life. It is a love for God that is total and entire in full measures, with whole mind, heart, strength, and soul. It is a love that places total trust in God even in desperate situations, like Tobit and Sarah. It is a love that clings to God, with an unfailing hope in His mercy against all hopes. It is a love that gives the topmost priority to God above all things. It is a love that gives full measures to God. It is a love that embraces God and clings to His will, in all circumstances. It is a love that breathes ceaselessly a passionate love for God. It is a love that beats for God with vibrant vibrations.

It is also love that loves the other with a total love paramount to the love for one's own self. Everyone loves their own self. Everyone desires good and happiness of one’s self. In the same way, one should love the other with the same sincere and highest love.

This twofold or two-pronged love is the greatest of all, surpassing all the ritual offerings and religious practices. The practice of religion or spirituality without love for God and for the other is not acceptable and pleasing in the sight of God. This is the same passion of love for God that made Charles Lwanga, a Ugandan martyr to offer his life readily and happily for God.

 

Direction:  This twofold love - love for God and love for the others - is the greatest commandment and an ardent adherence to it is the greatest witness to one's faith and faithfulness

 

04 JUNE 2021, TOBIT 11. 5-15; MARK 12. 35-37

 

Focus: Those who confide in God may also go through difficulties and sufferings like any other. But blessed are they because they do not give up their faith or hope and thus they will be comforted and relieved

 

In the first reading from Tobit, we have the healing of Tobit, recovery of his sight. God restores sight to him, through his angel Raphael who directs his son Tobias to anoint his father’s eyes with gall. Their faith is rewarded. Those who keep their faith in God may be tested and tried, but they will not be abandoned to struggle on with their misery. At the appointed time, God intervenes and relieves them of their misery. Meanwhile, all that is expected from them is to keep on meditating on God’s love and mercy. They should try to make sense of what they believe. For this, a constant deepening of the Word of God is very important. The Word of God is not a mere body of words but it is the pathway and a life-spring for every follower of Christ. Unfortunately, for many, it is some pious writing, a mere means of prayer and spiritual activity, a mere source of knowledge, a mere powerful instrument of preaching, a mere devotional exercise. That is why the Word of God is neglected and undermined by a good number. Many read and read, quote and quote, preach and preach the Word of God. But how many really assimilate the depth of it? How many see what God is teaching us and asking us in the light of His word? How many really grasp the implications of God’s word? Many are like the scribes in the gospel. They go on reading the scripture but they do not allow it to touch their heart. The Word of God is meant to read and reflect attentively and allow the Spirit to enlighten us. In the gospel, Jesus gives a simple instance where Christ is called both the son as well as the Lord of David. If only they reflected on this, they would have clearly understood the humanity and the divinity blended together in Jesus and would have willingly believed in him. But, they would not, because, unlike Tobit, they are not yet healed from their blindness. Still, their sight is blocked by layers of jealousy, stubbornness, and self-pride.

 

Direction: It is not enough to know the Word of God literally. What is much more needed is to assimilate the spirit of it and experience the power. Essentially the Word is meant to deepen our knowledge of God and to experience His healing

 

05 JUNE 2021, TOBIT 12. 1, 5-15, 20; MARK 12. 38-44, Memory of St Boniface

 

Focus: Hypocrisy is not merely a moral matter but concerns the whole life. It is a blatant contrast to authenticity

 

Hypocrisy is abominable to Jesus. But this is rampant in all the circles of life. Jesus insists upon authenticity from every disciple. It shuns all falsity, all shallowness, all self-show. This is the authenticity that was lacking in the Pharisees and scribes of Jesus' time. And it came under heavy rebuke from Jesus. But this is the authenticity of the poor widow which shows itself in humility, surrender, and generosity. There was no self-righteousness, no self-pride, no seeking self-glory like the Pharisees and scribes. True authenticity means the integrity of life. There was no pretension, no making false impressions. There was no undue craving for recognition and applause. There was no contradiction between what one is and what one appears to be. Besides, as Tobit instructs his son Tobias, true authenticity includes a deep spirit of prayer, accompanied by fasting, charity, and righteousness. These are not mere religious practices. They are the sum and summary of a whole life of integrity. Accordingly, they denote a spirit of discipline, sacrifice, and penance, a spirit of sensitivity and solidarity toward the needy, and a spirit of fairness and uprightness in character and behavior.

Hypocrisy may appear to be very rewarding. It may bring instant results and quick fruits, in the form of gratifying recognition and cheap popularity. It may give one a good feeling, self-satisfaction. It may also bring some gain and pleasure. But such gain and satisfaction, such standing great are not long-standing. In the long run, they may turn out to be frustrations and even lead to ruin and destruction. Much more than all these, a lack of authenticity is clearly detestable in the sight of God. St Boniface was such an authentic person who dedicated himself to the Germanic mission in the Frankish empire in the 8^th century. He is the patron of Germania and is the Apostle of the Germans. He was martyred along with 52 others.

 

Direction: Mere performance of religious activities or spiritual practices is no guarantee of the authenticity of character or integrity of life. They can very well be pretension and cover-ups out of a hypocritical spirit

 

MOST HOLY TRINITY 2021

 

MOST HOLY TRINITY, 30 MAY 2021

1. One God and three persons, but not three Gods: the mystery of the most holy Trinity. The mystery of the Trinity is core to Christianity. It forms the crux of Jesus' teaching and mission. Jesus reveals the Father and the Spirit. He reveals the face of the Father as he reflects his love to humanity. He is the perfect icon of the Father. He also reveals that the Spirit is the greatest testimony of his continued presence, guidance, and power.

2. And his mission of redemption is derived from the Father, and continued and confirmed through the Spirit. The Father sends the Son in the incarnation, to liberate, reconcile and rejuvenate the sin-tainted humanity. The Son redeems them through his life, death and resurrection. The Spirit as Comforter, Helper, Advocate, and Guide continues and fortifies this mission of sanctification through the disciples in the Church.

3. The Trinity is not a matter to be solved or resolved or reasoned out or proved. Rather it is a reality to be accepted and lived. Certainly, it is a mystery, in the sense of transcending human comprehension. But it being beyond sense and reason, does not make it senseless and unreasonable. It only indicates and affirms the infinity, profundity, and immensity of the Trinity on one hand, and the limit, limitation, and superfluity of the human reality on the other hand.

4. Let us not subject Trinity to the logic and reasoning of intellectual categories. Rather, we can humbly try to make some sense of it. Any explanation for Trinity is only analogous and not literal. In fact, there is no need at all to break one's head to make a perfect sense of Trinity. It is enough to know what the Trinity does for us, what Trinity implies for our life, and how we can live the life and mission of the Trinity in our own lives.

5. Perhaps analogously the Father is like the Spring, the Son is the well or the channel, and the Spirit is the water. The Father is like the Sun, the Son is the rays, and the Holy Spirit is the heat or radiance.

6. What is essential to Trinity is perfect unity. They are one God. They are one in identity, which is divinity: the Father is divine, the Son is divine and the Holy Spirit is divine. They are equally divine in nature, status, and power. However, equality does not mean full identity in their role and function. Trinity is one in fellowship and love. The one and same love resides in each of them, flows across, and binds them together in communion and concern. Trinity is one in mission. It is one mission of salvation or redemption or re-creation or re-integration of humanity, whatever be the terms used, the Trinity is engaged with, in solidarity and commitment.

7. Accordingly, there is distinction but not division, comprehension and not a contradiction, coordination and not subordination, collaboration and not a competition, self-donation and not domination, mutual respect and not contempt, self-emptying and not self-filling, generosity and not jealousy. There are no ego-clashes or seeking self- glory.

8. It is this Trinity that becomes our foundation, animation, and actualization. Trinity is not a mere concept to be understood. Not even a great example and model for inspiration and imitation. Trinity is a life-reality, a concern of experience, relation, living, and commitment. This is our one and unique identity: we are divine images. We belong to God. Trinity constantly invites us to be more and more focused on them, rooted in them, built on them, grow in deep personal communion with them, in love and surrender. Trinity calls us incessantly to live the same unity in fraternity, marked by respect and benevolence. Trinity also challenges us to be selflessly devoted to the one mission of God, in loyalty and commitment.

9. Alas! How far are we as persons, as families and as communities, from the life and mission of the Trinity?  The one identity of the divine likeness and belonging is often dominated and even substituted by secondary and deviated identities and affinities like caste, region, language, culture, rite. power, position, etc. The one bond of love and fellowship is often suffocated and stifled by resentments, hatred, and arrogance. The one mission is often frustrated, ruptured and defeated by ego-projection, ego-promotion, and self-glory.

Direction: It is high time that we "release / unbind" the power of the Trinity to "release" us from our mediocrity and duplicity!

Week after Pentecost

24 – 29 MAY 2021, HOLY MASS REFLECTIONS

24 MAY 2021: SIRACH 17. 24-29; MARK 10. 17-27

Focus: The man of today thinks that everything is possible for him. A sense of self-confidence is good. But a sense of humility to recognize his self-insufficiency is better

In the gospel of today, we have a rich young man who can represent many of us. First of all, we can appreciate his desire for eternal life, as he asks Jesus, “What must I do to inherit eternal life?” He asks this in humility as he kneels before Jesus. He also readily acknowledges Jesus as the right teacher who can teach and direct rightly as he addresses Jesus, “Good teacher!” We must further appreciate him for his fidelity to observe the commandments from his youth. Immediately, in the light of him, it is good to do a self-check. How many have this desire for eternal life? Many desire to acquire and gain many things pertaining to the world, but very little is the desire for what is beyond and lasting. Do we have the humility to seek the answer for eternity? Do we have the trust and faith in Jesus as the one who can give the right answer and direct us in the right way? And how many sincerely can affirm that I am following the commandments from my youth?

Certainly, this rich young man is not a bad man. He is religious-minded. That is why, Jesus looks upon him with love. However, the young man is still insufficient. He lacks something essential. He lacks that profound detachment, that radical self-giving, and personal intimacy with the Lord and following him. He needs to get rid of a worldly mentality of acquiring, inheriting, and possessing. This is indicated in his question, “What must I do to inherit the eternal life?” Eternal life is not something that can be gained by one’s own effort or merit. It is not an automatic result and reward of certain observances, even though good. Eternal life and salvation are God’s grace, it is His free gift. Attachment to worldly things and possessions can be the biggest hindrance to follow the Lord personally and intimately. They can easily make one self-centered and greedy. They may make one fail in sensitivity and generosity to the poor and needy. Some may argue that Jesus is not realistic and practical. He does not know how to tackle the young man. He upsets the rich young man totally. He would have advised him to be more generous and contribute huge donations and alms to the poor and the temple, etc. But, the real issue here is a radical commitment to the Lord. As the book of Sirach advocates, it is a definitive turning to God, without conditions and compromises. It is a total self-giving to God and to others. All that matters is only surrender and loyalty to the Lord.

Direction: It is good that we frequently question ourselves: What do I lack? But it is  not in regard to the world, in terms of money, things, capacities or power, position, etc. The vital concern is, what do I lack in my journey of salvation?

25 MAY 2021: SIRACH 35. 1-12; MARK 10. 28-31

Focus: The practice of religion in devotions, offerings, and sacrifices is good. But all this must be done with a real spirit of self-offering, righteousness and gladness

In the first reading from Sirach, there is a very profound religious teaching that which is a check and control against a shallow and superficial religiosity. Such a religiosity is very inadequate because it is limited and reduced to mere offerings and sacrifices, activities, and practices. Unfortunately, this is the type of religiosity and spirituality that many believe and practice today. The consequence of such a depthless religion is obstinacy, intolerance, antagonism and violence.

But, today the book of Sirach teaches us rightly that being faithful to the laws and commandments, being kind and righteous surpasses all the formal offerings and rituals. It is not the religious act alone that pleases God but the heart that does that action. It is the spirit and life of humility, righteousness, self-offering to God, and self-giving to others in joy that wins God’s favour.

Such life is certainly not easy. It is demanding and challenging. Especially in the sight of the world, and in the human calculations, it is a big loss. What is the use of it? What is the result and fruit for it? This is the concern that is implied in the question of Peter to Jesus in today’s gospel: “Behold, we have left everything and followed you What do we get?" This question follows immediately yesterday’s episode of the rich young man, who fails to follow Jesus’ invitation to give up everything and follow him. In contrast to him, Peter and the other disciples readily leave everything and follow Jesus. In this context, Peter’s question is quite valid and reasonable. It is not following the Lord with ulterior motive or some interests. It is not doing something for God with some expectations. It is not giving up some things in order to gain many things. In all simplicity, Peter’s question reveals a concern for assurance that it is worth following the Lord. It is far more rewarding. It is not a vain enterprise or a futile struggle. The value of following the Lord is exceedingly greater than all that is given up. The reward is an abundance of spiritual riches and relationships. And the greatest reward is eternal life.

Direction: Following the Lord will become light and enjoyable if one does it with a positive mind. This means one must constantly see that what he receives is far more worth and valuable, comparing to what he loses. God’s abundant blessings and eternal life are the greatest rewards!

26 MAY 2021: SIRACH 36. 1-2, 5-6, 11-16; MARK 10. 32-45, Memory of St Philip Neri

Focus: Those who follow the Lord must follow a different set of rules and values, in contrast to the world. Only then, they will find the real meaning, joy, and fulfillment in what they are doing and living

The scene in the gospel is rather interesting but is very close to our own reality. On one hand, Jesus is speaking to the disciples about the impending and fast approaching painful fate of his in Jerusalem. He would be falsely accused and undergo suffering and death. But the disciples do not seem to bother at all, or utmost they do not understand him. It is strange that they do not seek to clarify or sympathize with him or assure him of their loyalty. Instead, James and John seek seats of honour beside Jesus, one on the right and one on the left. What happens is that their sight is only on the glory that Jesus would repossess. They lose sight of the misery and cross that should precede the glory. We may wonder how could they so easily overlook the pain of the Lord? How could such oversight and unconcern be possible? We too may become indignant just like the other disciples toward those two. Ironically, they might have been unhappy, not because of the wrong motivation and over-ambition of the two brothers. Quite humanly speaking, they might have been annoyed and jealous that they are snatching away the best chances!

But, a little honesty would tell us that we are no different. Many times, we are not interested in the realities that the Lord wants to teach and caution us about. We are more bothered about our own interests. We do not try to understand the ways of the Lord but want to push ahead our own plans and calculations. We want to jump over and avoid the way of the cross and reach straight at the glory of the resurrection. To desire to reign with Jesus in glory is not wrong. In fact, that is our destiny and we must aspire for it and strive for it. But, we should realize that Jesus’ glory is totally different from that of the world. The world's glory is based on power and position. It consists of lording over others, being served by others, showing oneself greater than others. But the glory of Jesus is processed through the way of suffering, sacrificing, and serving.

Direction: “Can you drink the cup that I drink?” This question of Jesus repeats daily to each one of us. Can you share with me the life of suffering, adversities, and sacrifice?

27 MAY 2021: SIRACH 42. 15-25; MARK 10. 46-52

Focus: God is within us and amidst us, He is before us and beyond us. He remains hidden and invisible but His power and love are made manifest in numberless ways. Blessed is he who is able to see!

Blindness is a great loss. Only one who is blind can really know how terrible it is. It is true that many of us feel so much pity for blind people. We feel sad that they are missing so much, that they miss the colours, the beauty of life and persons. We may also wonder how they can accept such deprivation and live happily. Such human emotion is good toward others. But do we realize and appreciate how blessed we are to have sight, to be able to see! Do we also act responsibly on what we see? Do we have a sense of discretion regarding what to see and what not to see?

Jesus in the gospel heals a blind man by the name Bartimaeus. This blind man can teach us simple but useful lessons for our life. His blindness reduces him to beggary, sitting by the roadside. He hears of Jesus’ coming. He does not want to miss the chance of healing. He cries out pleading Jesus to have mercy on him. The rebuke of the annoyed people to keep quiet does not silence his voice nor quieten his desire for healing. He persists all the more in his cry for help. His perseverance catches the attention of the Master and wins his mercy. He is called by Jesus. When told that he called by the Master, we can note some notable actions on his part. He throws off his mantle. He springs up. He comes to Jesus. Already the very call by the Lord itself ensures him of the recovery of his sight. He no longer feels the need for his mantle. He needs no more to sit, stuck to the ground. That is why he springs up and moves to Jesus. Here too, at the encounter with Jesus, he is quite clear about what he needs. Asked by Jesus, ‘what do you want me to do for you?’ he is prompt to answer, “Master, let me receive my sight”. His faith is rewarded. Jesus heals him saying “Your faith has made you well. Go your way”. He is no longer blind. He is able to see, able to see, and walk the way. His sight is not only physical. His sight is whole and holistic. He is able to see the Lord. That is why, instead of going his way, he follows Jesus on his way.

Direction: Much more than the exterior, physical sight, today we are invited to shift our attention on to our interior sight. To be empathetic toward the blind is good, but let us recognize our own blindness toward God and toward others. Failing in faith is spiritual blindness; failing in fraternal perspective and goodness is fraternal blindness; failing in moral values is moral blindness

28 MAY 2021: SIRACH 44. 1, 9-13; MARK 11. 11-25

Focus: Many are born and many die as well. Birth and death in themselves, are natural and normal. But how well we live in mercy and righteousness will make us live beyond death in people’s memory and hearts

The first reading from the book of Sirach sings the praises of some of our famous ancestors. They died physically but they continue to live on because of their merciful and upright lives. Their memory remains unerasable. In reference to the fig tree in the gospel, they are truly the fig tree that bears fruits always in season and out of season. In the gospel, Jesus looks for figs on a fig tree but finds none and curses it. It is pointless to argue how Jesus can curse the fig tree, knowing well that it is not the season for bearing fruit. The point is no more that particular fig tree. The whole matter is symbolic. The fig tree stands for each one of us. And we are expected to be productive and fruit-bearing. We cannot just remain with leaves. There is no good time or appropriate season but we need to be ever fruitful. Our good deeds must never cease. Our productivity in faith and righteousness must never fail. At no point or moment of time, our spirit must wither. We must be ever vibrant and fecund.

Such productivity and fecundity are possible only when we remain as houses of prayer and not as a den of robbers. Jesus’ cleansing of the temple too is symbolic. Our heart, our life, our person, our family, and our community are the temple. They need to be abodes of God, temples of prayer. God must reside there. His Spirit must reign within us. They should never become like dens of robbers that comprises wrongdoing, dishonesty, cheating, threatening, intimidating, violence, harm to others, etc. Instead, we need to be vessels of deep faith even to believe in moving the mountain, and carriers of genuine forgiveness.

Direction: For faith and goodness, for bearing fruits of good actions, there are no seasons or propitiating times. We are called to be productive and fruitful always and everywhere

29 MAY 2021: SIRACH 51. 12-20; MARK 11. 27-33

Focus: Men of today restlessly seek knowledge and competence, and they are happy that they are able to master them. But they do not realize that it better to be seekers and servants of wisdom, because wisdom alone adorns and fulfills life

In the first reading from Sirach, we have the image of a seeker of wisdom. He prays for her. He searches for her to the end. He directs his soul to her. Through purification, he finds her. He finds delight in her. He follows her steps. He inclines his ears to her and receives her. He finds much instruction from her. He progresses in her. He lives according to wisdom. Accordingly, he is disciplined in his conduct. He is never put to shame. And he is zealous for good.

In the gospel, this is the same wisdom that is personified in Jesus. Jesus is the power and wisdom of God. His wisdom and authority are divine. That is why he confounds and overcomes his opponents. It is this divine authority that preaches irresistibly and heals miraculously. But unfortunately the unbelieving Jews lack the gift of faith to see, appreciate, accept this divine grace and cooperate with it. They operate only with human intelligence and knowledge. They think only in human terms of power and authority that comes from positions and offices. They fail to see in Jesus one who embodies and personifies God’s own wisdom and spiritual authority. They were caught up with the mere letter of the law and did not see the spirit of it. Consequently, they could see Jesus only as the violator of the law and not the renovator and fulfiller of the law. They were worried so much as if so much bad was happening to the religion and the tradition. In the process, they could not rejoice over the immense good done to the human persons and the religion itself.

Certainly the tact and trickiness of Jesus are appreciable: he counters and silences the scribes and elders who question him, “By what authority are you doing these things?” He puts them a counter-question: “Answer me whether the baptism of John is from heaven or from men?” They will be caught either way: if they say, from heaven, then their unbelief will be exposed and blamed; if they say it is from men, then they will invite the ire and rage of the people who hold John to be a prophet. Therefore, they admit that they don’t know. Jesus tells them that he too will not tell them by what authority he does all that he does. But here, much more than this wise shrewdness of Jesus, what is exposed is the stubbornness, closed-mindedness, and double standards of the unbelieving Jews and authorities.

Direction: Let our constant prayer and search be for wisdom, because once we obtain her, then there will be faith, docility, and honest living by a spiritual authority

PENTECOST 2021

 

PENTECOST, 23 MAY 2021

ACTS 2. 1-11; 1 COR 12. 3-7, 12-13; JOHN 20. 19-23

1.     We celebrate the great feast of Pentecost. It is the unique day when the Holy Spirit descends and fills the receivers with power. In fact, as Jesus was leaving the earth at the completion of his human mission, he repeatedly comforted his disciples that he would not leave them as orphans. He promised them to send the Holy Spirit. Thus he assured them his continued presence through the Spirit. Therefore, the descent of the Holy Spirit is the greatest assurance and sign of God’s own presence, guidance, and power. Pentecost is the initiation of this great outpouring of the Spirit. It is the beginning of a new era, a new time of the Spirit, a new mode of living, walking by the Spirit, living in the realm of the Spirit.

2.     In recent times, it is a very happy thing that the role of the Holy Spirit is more and more realized in our life. Consequently, we see so much invocation to the Spirit, so many charismatic prayer movements and sessions, so much emphasis on the Word of God as the communication of the Spirit, so much focus on the gifts of the Spirit such as miracles, tongues, prophecy, etc. There is certainly so much revival, vigor, and enthusiasm, which are all concrete signs of the power of the Spirit.

3.     But wait and beware! There is always the danger to limit the Holy Spirit only to these external demonstrations and expressions. Holy Spirit is not only some eloquent preaching, some animated and moving prayers, some evocative intercessions, some touching devotion, some powerful healing, some impressing gift of tongue, some happening prophesying, a great mass appeal and gathering huge crowds. Certainly, as the Spirit is powerful and vivacious, it can have such great external impacts. But the sad thing is, the Spirit is so much confined only to these factors, so much domesticated only to these. As a result, sadly only some groups claim to be charismatic groups, filled by the Spirit, and the others are devalued as mere ordinary mortals. Or, only some prayer modes are rated to be Spirit-powered modes, and the other prayer ways are just the ordinary. We see in all this, two unhappy tendencies: reduction and arrogance. That is, reducing the Holy Spirit ultimately to powerful preaching and wonders. Second, also nurturing a disguised spiritual pride of possessing the Spirit to use it at one’s liking.

4.     And the greatest sad effect and consequence of such tendencies is, a failure to renew life. In other words, there is so much demonstration of the power of the Spirit in different spiritual activities, but hardly any real change in concrete life. The power of the Spirit is predominantly restricted to the spiritual zone, with no inflow into the daily life zone. This creates a wide gap and abyss between spiritual power and success but a practical weakness and value failure. The whole issue is that these spiritual activities and powers do not guarantee a good and holy life. Just listen to how clearly Jesus brings to attention this fact: “Many will say to me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not speak in your name? Did we not cast out devils and perform many miracles in your name? Then I will tell them openly: I have never known you; away from me, you evil people!” (Mt 7. 22-23).

5.     Therefore we must sincerely question and see: How much the power of the Spirit is challenging and changing my weaknesses? How much does the spiritual illumination to cite many quotations, enlighten and guide for the right thoughts, attitudes, decisions, and actions? How much does the expertise and eloquence of preaching the Word lead to practice the Word in real life? How much does the Spirit make one grow in honesty, in patience, in unity, in generosity, in purity, in holiness, in serenity, in self-control – this is the whole issue.

6.     Claiming to be filled and empowered by the Spirit, but living exactly contrary to the fruits of the Spirit, in grudges and resentments, in needless tensions and disturbances, in anger and impatience, in dishonesty and cheating, in impurity and malice, in criticism and slander, in indifference and selfishness, in greed and grabbing, in division and discrimination, in pride and false dignity, in self-glory and cheap popularity – is this the Holy Spirit? What kind of Spirit this is? Great display of the gifts of the Spirit (cf. 1 Cor 12. 4-11)! Good! But where is the witness to the fruits of the Spirit (Gal 5. 22-23). Let us not limit the Holy Spirit. Let us not drain his power. Let us not dilute his role. Let us not tame him to suit our convenience and advantage. Let us not privatize him to project and promote self-glory.

Week after Ascension of the lord

 

17 – 22 MAY 2021, HOLY MASS REFLECTION

 

17 MAY 2021, ACTS 19. 1-8; JOHN 16. 29-33

 

Focus: Trials and tribulations are bound to come. They may come all the more when we are loyal to God’s ways and good ways. But there is no need for panic for those who confide in God

 

The life of faith is a continuous and progressive journey. Certainly, baptism washes away the sins and inserts the believer into a new life, a new relationship with the Lord, and also a new family of redeemed people. But, one cannot be satisfied with that incorporation. The journey must continue. From the initiation, one must grow stronger and deeper. From turning away from sin, one must turn definitively to God. One must uproot the deep roots of sin and transplant and cultivate the flowers and fruits of grace. From a baptism of repentance, one must rise to the baptism of the Spirit. From a stumbling walk of imperfect and immature faith, one must walk steadily and firmly on the way of perfect and mature faith.

This is what we see in the case of the believers at Ephesus. They stopped with the baptism of John. They had not gone and grown beyond. They remained still with the phase of repentance. They were good. But that is not enough. Much more is needed. There must be more fire, more vigour. They did not become vigorous in a new life of conversion and renewal. This is exactly the life of the Spirit. This is possible only when one is open to the Spirit and is empowered by the same. This is what the apostles constantly strive to do in the Acts of the Apostles and Jesus in the gospel: to fill the believers/disciples with the outpouring of the Holy Spirit. Thereby, they would be confirmed and deepened in their faith and bear witness to the Lord. In the absence of the Spirit, what will happen is a "scattering" and "leaving the Lord alone" out of fear. But, if one confides in the Lord and is docile to the Spirit, he will have peace and will remain untroubled even though the world will trouble because the Lord has "already conquered the world" and his grace and mission are "unconquerable" by the evil.

 

Direction: Often many mistake intellectual understanding and assent alone as faith. But the real believing is living with the Lord and living for him at all times

 

18 MAY 2021, ACTS 20. 17- 27; JOHN 17. 1-11, MEMORY, ST PHILIP NERI

 

Focus: There is a subtle difference between self-glory and God's glory which often a great many believers and ministers may conveniently confuse. In the former, the whole focus and centre is self, while in the latter, it is God

 

Many a time, "glorifying God" is reduced to mere word proclamation or working healings and miracles. This is very well a disguised form of self-promotion. Even the great gifts of God, like the eloquence of preaching, the power of miracles, etc. can be means of seeking self-attention and self-recognition. But in contrast, in today’s first reading and the gospel, we find Paul and Jesus himself. They are totally devoid of any self-seeking and self-glory. We are shown what is the real and the right way to glorify God. It is "accomplishing the work that God has entrusted". It consists of the communion of depth and intimacy. It is through a mission of conviction and passion, courage and perseverance, loyalty and commitment. It is a mission that "does not shrink from bearing witness". Paul too follows the same spirit and mission of his Master. That is why he attests, “I do not account my life of any value or as precious to myself”. It is worth it “if only I accomplish my course and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus”. He could convincingly affirm, "I did never shrink from this duty”, “to declare to all the whole counsel of God”, and “to testify to the gospel of the grace of God”.  Thus, he remains unperturbed and undeterred even though he knew well that "imprisonment and hardships await him".

Every disciple of the Lord is expected to remain rooted and United with God and to glorify God by accomplishing God's works. As the Lord prays, we need to totally belong to him, and not to the world. We are in the world but are not of the world. We need to be one with one another, just as Jesus was one with the Father. We need to glorify the Lord just as Jesus always glorified the Father. St Philip Neri bore witness to God through his total surrender to God, even though considered crazy and queer at times.

 

Direction: Giving testimony is not a matter of proclaiming what great things I have done even with the mention of God's power, but rather glorifying God's will and plans even amidst one's individual inadequacies

 

19 MAY 2021, ACTS 20. 28-38; JOHN 17. 11-19

 

Focus: God is anguished over us, and it is not a sign of His fragility or emotional vulnerability, but rather a proof of His concern and anxiety for our safety and peace

 

In both the readings, we have the farewell scenes so intensified. In the Acts of the Apostles, it is Paul to the elders in Ephesus, and in the gospel, it is Jesus to his disciples. There is so much sentiment and feeling. There is tear and anguish. The whole concern is not so much the pain at the physical separation. It is not merely something emotional or relational. It is a higher concern. It is the protection and safety of their followers after their departure. The reason for this anxiety is the danger that they are exposed to. It is the danger of "ravaged wolves" who will pervert the truth. These will draw the followers away from the truth and will try to destroy the whole edifice of faith that had been so painstakingly built up.

In this context, their primary duty is twofold: one is, to guard their own selves from all these onslaughts. The other is, to guard those entrusted to their care. For this, what we need to do is: to deeply commune with God and to be deeply consecrated to truth. It is only a deep communion with God and with each other that can keep us firm and unshaken. It is our oneness that would guard us against being carried away by the world. Further, it is our sanctification by truth and consecration to the truth that will keep us authentic in our life and effective in our mission. We will not be easily diverted and distorted by all the evil forces of falsity and infidelity.

At this point, it is very clear what is missing in today’s church, why it is so much troubled by the evil one. It is true that fierce wolves that tear off truth and snatch away the sheep are increasing. But this does not justify one’s falling and failing in faith and charity. The fault lies with us. When we carelessly allow ourselves to be devoured by the lure of the evil, when we are not one and united with God in intimacy, when we are not loyal and committed to his values, when we willingly divide ourselves by needless factors of division and discrimination, when we do not constantly sanctify and consecrate ourselves in truth, then how can we expect to be his fitting witnesses?

 

Direction: In the accomplishment of God's mission of the spread of God's reign, human intelligence, and capacities do not suffice. We need God's wisdom and Spirit's power to be cautious and judicious.

 

20 MAY 2021, ACTS 22. 30, 23. 6-11; JOHN 17. 20-26

 

Focus: Ask me where does a disciple find the real meaning and worth of the life and mission. It is in bearing witness to the Lord. And no one can find any sense and fulfillment apart from this

 

Witness is the catchword for any follower of Christ. The authenticity of a disciple is determined by the extent of his being a witness to the Lord.  But witness to what? What are the essential ingredients of this task of witness? The very first component is an unshakable faith in Jesus as the Lord and Saviour. This is manifested in the proclamation by word and in action by life in imitation and resemblance to the Lord himself. This implies a profound and inalienable oneness with the Father, Son, and the Spirit.

This is the oneness in identity, in love, and mission. This one identity is divinity, the divine image, the divine dignity, and sanctity. The oneness in love is to love God as the Godhead loves each other and as they love us. It is the one love that abides in every heart, one love that knits together, and one love that outflows from one to the other. Further, it is the oneness of mission. There is no rivalry or unhealthy and harmful competition. There is perfect cooperation and collaboration. And this is the greatest witness. Communion with God and with one another is the greatest identity mark and witness sign. Lack of intimacy with God and disunity with one another is counter-witness and counter-productive. There can be nothing that can substitute for oneness in identity, love, and mission. There can be nothing more effective than a life of witness.

 

Direction: In the wake of an increasing lament and blame that the quality of witness is deteriorating, the the urgent need is to wake up the dormant spirits and the indifferent energies

 

21 MAY 2021, ACTS 25. 13-21;  JOHN 21. 15-19

 

Focus: Love should be the foundation and driving force of all our life and mission, and only then, there will be fidelity and commitment 

 

What irresistible courage, indefatigable assiduity, and immeasurable passion with which Jesus and his followers live their life and mission! We cannot but wonder at this. The secret behind such an inexhaustible strength and irreversible perseverance is a deep-rooted love for the Lord. Jesus has this unfathomable and inalienable love for the Father. The disciples too are to have the same love for the Master. Peter on behalf of every disciple of Christ, is asked by Jesus, "Do you love me?" The question is precise and incisive. The affirmative answer of Peter too is prompt and spontaneous. We do not here engage ourselves with the reason why Jesus asks Peter the same question three times. Is it to balance and compensate for the three-time denial of Peter at the trial of Jesus? Does the number 3 indicate a sense of completion that love has to be complete and perfect? Or does this repetition point to the utmost importance of the law of love?  These questions are not so crucial.

What is important is to note that Love is the greatest condition and energy for any follower. There is no compromise or concessions regarding this. Either one loves or no. However, this love is not merely emotional or sentimental. It is profoundly actual and concrete. It is a love that affects the whole life and mission. It is a love that entails one with an inescapable duty for the other. It is a love that binds one to take care of others, to be concerned for other’s good and growth. It is a call of love that calls for a mission of love. It is a vocation that shows itself in a mission that is other-oriented. That is why, all the three times Jesus entrusts Peter a mission, "Feed my sheep", "Tend my flock ", and "Follow me".

 

Direction: We belong to each other. We are given the care of each other. And so we have a responsibility for each other. Therefore, to tend those given to our care – is the fundamental responsibility. But many fail in their responsibility of tending others or following the Lord. The reason is not human inadequacies. It is only because of the lack of love for the Lord, who deserves all our love

 

22 MAY 2021, ACTS 28. 16-20, 30-31; JOHN 21. 20-25

 

Focus: Clarity of purpose can give one a sense of direction and a wholehearted dedication in his mission

 

When there is clarity and focus regarding the purpose and mission of life, then there is no deviation or obstruction. Nothing can mar or hinder one's mission. Paul was totally clear and focused. So whether free or imprisoned, moving or bound, streets or home- confined, his spirit was the same. This is the singularity and the priority of life: The Lord, faith in him, and testimony to him.

Perhaps, this is what is figuratively implied by the concluding texts in both readings. In the first reading, we have the conclusion of the book of the Acts of the Apostles, and in the gospel, we have the conclusion of John’s gospel. In both, it is also the conclusion of the life of Paul and Jesus. The writings may be concluded, the earthly ministry may stop. But grace, God’s reign, and God’s work continue. The focus and mission must never get sidelined. This is what is implied in Jesus' rebuke to Peter. In all  reasonable human curiosity about the fate of the other disciple, Peter might have asked “Lord, what about this man?” But the answer of Jesus is rather sharp: "What does it concern or matter for you if he were to be alive?" The point is not about the death or the continuity of the other disciple. The sole concern is the Lord's concern, that is, follow the Lord and accomplish his mission. This should be a deeply "personal concern" of everyone and not unnecessary eagerness and inquisitiveness about many other concerns.

 

Direction: “How does this concern matter to me?” "Why should these matters concern me?" Often, such questions can be indicators of indifference and unconcern. But, they can be a question of self-check on the many matters that concern us. They can reveal to us that the many matters that occupy our concern are not really worth the concern