34th WEEK DAYS MASS REFLECTION 23

27 NOVEMBER - 02 DECEMBER 2023, HOLY MASS REFLECTIONS 27 NOVEMBER 2023: DAN 1. 1-6, 8-20; LUKE 21. 1-4 Focus: Give without measure! Indicative: Giving may be considered as loss and deprivation in the sight of the world. But in the sight of God, every act of giving is gaining God’s favour and abundant riches 1.      Many do not want to give because they think it reduces what they have. They feel deprived of what they can enjoy for themselves. For them, every act of giving is a loss, reduction and deprivation. That is why many are driven by a spirit of grabbing and accumulating. This is truly a culture of greed and manipulation. 2.      In contrast to such a culture, we have an imitable example of a poor widow in the gospel. In comparison to the other rich people, she gives very little to the temple treasury – just two copper coins. As number and quantity, it is very insignificant and ignorable. But it comes from an abundant heart, out of the abundance of love, trust, joy and generosity. 3.      In the first reading from Daniel also, we have a similar story in the case of Daniel along with his three companions, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah. They demonstrate the same spirit of giving. It is not merely a matter of giving something. It is much more. 4.      It is a self-giving to God. They give themselves to God in faith and surrender. They give their loyalty to God. Even in slavery under a pagan king, they did not give up their trust and obedience to God’s ordinances. We are told that they resolved not to defile themselves with the food or the drink of the king. 5.      Apparently and practically, every giving will cause some inconvenience and loss. The poor widow loses her means of sustenance, her security for tomorrow. The four young men lose their chance to enjoy rich food, to become strong and fit. They had to content themselves with mere vegetables. They also stood the danger of penalty for defying the king’s order. But their selfless giving with faith in God pleases God and is rewarded. 6.      The poor woman merits appreciation by Jesus himself. And the four youths are given surpassing wisdom, understanding, learning and skill. They win the king’s favour. They become beneficial and exemplary for others. They will become later the channels of testimony to Yahweh, the true God, before the pagans. Imperative: Those who are greedy and self-centered and refuse to give, do not realize what an immense grace of God they are losing. The more we give, the more we will be given (Reflection 2) Focus: The humble and the generous are specially loved, blessed and recompensed by God. It is better to win God’s favour rather than the human’s 1.      The world may consider the humble and the benevolent people as foolish imbeciles who do not understand the ways of the world, who do not keep pace with the times, and who are not smart enough to make a prosperous life. 2.      The reason is simple: they are a contrast to those of the world, and their values are quite in contrast to those of the world. They are a contradiction, a question mark, and a stumbling block by their culture of giving, sacrificing, and altruism, to a world steeped in a culture of grabbing, hoarding, and self-profiting. 3.      But only such people are pleasing to God and they are truly appreciated by Him. The poor widow in the gospel is one such. She is a great testimony of a culture of giving – giving lovingly, trustingly, willingly, promptly, totally, generously, cheerfully, magnanimously, and humbly. 4.      With the simplest love for God and deep trust in His providential care, she gives away the whole of what she has. She does not keep back anything. She gives in full measure and gives so joyfully. She gives without making a show. 5.      Can she prick us a little bit to awaken from our deep-rooted selfishness and indifference? Can she inspire us a little bit to resist our greed and grabbing nature and become a little more generous and sharing?   Direction: It is not the quantity or the position of giving that matters but the disposition and quality of heart.   28 NOVEMBER 2023: DANIEL 2. 31-45; LUKE 21. 5-1 Focus: Be not deceived! Indicative: Worldly glories and human accomplishments may stand tall and great for some time. They may bring honour and popularity for a while. But nothing of these will stand long 1.      The temple of Jerusalem was a symbol of pride for all the Jews for its splendour and magnificence. But all this vanished as it was destroyed in 70 AD. No glory and grandeur could spare it from the destruction. This is a stark indicator to all of us about the transience of anything worldly. Everything of this world and earth will pass away. It is futile and foolish to place our trust in them and seek glory from them. 2.      The Jews pride themselves as the chosen people, as people of God and people of the temple. They forget the fact that it is not their race or the temple or city or their law or rich heritage that makes them great before God. Nothing of these would be guarantees to obtain God’s grace. Nothing of these would come to rescue in time of trial. Ultimately it is only fidelity to God and walking in His ways. 3.      This is the same message that is conveyed through Daniel’s interpretation of the king’s dream. All the earthly kingdoms based on human power and ability will be destroyed. But the kingdom that is set up by God shall never be destroyed. This is the messianic kingdom, the kingdom of God, the reign of God. 4.      Therefore, in the face of such perishability and passability of worldly things, what must be our response? Firstly, to take heed not to be led astray by worldly pomp and glory. Secondly, not to go after false prophets and false teachings. Thirdly, not to be frightened by disastrous events like wars, tumults, earthquakes, famines and pestilences. Fourthly, to be firm and persevering in living our life faithfully. Imperative: Let us not bother too much about when will be the end, or what will be the signs of the end. Rather let us be more concerned about living a life that is worthy of meeting the end (Reflection 2) Thrust: Beware of the times! Indicative: The end times are sure to come. We need to become aware of their nature and get prepared 1.       Today’s readings focus on the theme of “time”, especially the end times, before-the-end times, that is the present time and after-the-end times, that is the time of reckoning, judgment of reward, or punishment. End times are sure to come. But what kind? What will happen at the end times? How is it characterized? 2.       First of all, the end times will be “testing” times. Those who are faithful to God will be put to test and trial. They will be hated, persecuted, and delivered to prison, even by their own families. The end time will be “chaotic and destructive” times. Divisions, wars and tumults, earthquakes, famines, and pestilences will increase. Human pride and glory especially in their mighty structures and achievements of splendour and pomp will be brought low. 3.       The end times will be “misleading” times. These are times that falsify things, distort the truth, and deceive and lead astray. The Lord himself warns: “For many will come in my name, saying, ‘I am he’, and ‘the time is at hand!’. It is deception concerning self-claims of self-glory and future predictions. 4.       How should we respond to these times? What should be our response concerning these end times? First of all, a sense of “Awareness”: We must be aware that there will be end times. Be aware that the end is bound to happen. Do not take things and life for granted. 5.       Then, “do not be led astray.” Do not go after false promises, assurances, and predictions. Do not be deceived by empty rewards. Do not confide in the earthly glories and successes and do not be carried away by them. Do not lose sight of the perishability of earthly and human pride. 6.       “Do not be terrified” and lose heart at the adversities and afflictions. Rather confide in God’s protection and care, guidance, and power. Then what will be after the end times? There will be a time of divine judgment and reckoning.   Imperative: If only we become wise not to place our excessive trust in material glories and not to be led astray but confide in God and live a life of witness, we will be truly rewarded with eternity   29 NOVEMBER 2023: DAN 5. 1-6, 13-14, 16-17, 23-29; LUKE 21. 12-19 Focus: Put to test but not lost! Indicative: Fidelity to truth and to the Lord will certainly bring a lot of opposition and persecution upon those who stand for truth and God. But it is worth standing! 1.      Following Christ and his values is not an easy task. It will invite many adversities and afflictions. For that matter, anyone who stands for God and good will come across suffering and persecution. The simple reason is a world whose values are shallow and compromising cannot accept such contrasts and challenges. 2.      The same will be the fate of the disciples of Christ. If they are truly faithful to their master, then they too will have the same fate as their master – opposition, persecution, trial, and death. In the gospel, Jesus predicts what would befall his disciples because of their fidelity. They will be unjustly opposed, arrested, put to trial and persecuted. They will be betrayed even by their own family and even put to death. 3.      People of the world turn and rise against the people of God. A sample of this we see in the first reading. King Belshazzar along with his household and a number of his lords commits a sacrilege by drinking from the holy vessels of the temple of Jerusalem. He has lifted himself against the Lord of heaven. They have praised the gods of silver and gold, etc. while they do not honour the true God in whose hand is all breath and all our ways. 4.      Similarly, there are many who divinize the merely earthly and the worldly. They desecrate and profane the sacred. They do not honour and adhere to the true God but pose themselves against Him. Naturally, these cause trouble for the true followers. 5.      In such times, what must the followers do? Do not be disturbed or waver in your minds. But trust and confide in God’s minute care because “not a hair of our head will perish”. Besides, He will supply the wisdom to confront and defeat the enemy. Endure to the end. Be convinced of the just judgment of God. 6.      As in the case of the king, there will be for sure a “writing on the wall” against all who do evil. The same words of judgment, “Mene, Mene, Tekel, and Parsin” will apply to every evil-minded. God numbers the days of every evil kingdom and brings it to an end. Evil people are weighed in the balances and found wanting. Their kingdom, that is all that they possess and hold dear will be dispersed. Imperative: The times of suffering and persecution are not fighting a losing battle. It is indeed an opportune time to bear testimony to our faith and love for the Lord (Reflection 2) Thrust: Nothing to fear! Indicative: It is wise that we remain aware of the hard and challenging times in the journey of our faith and goodness. Adversities and afflictions are bound to confront us. But no need to be panicky 1.      The Word of God always invites us to be men and women of faith, to remain firm and steadfast. But it makes no false promises and assurances in the sense that faith will be a shield against any difficulty. The Lord himself shatters all such false guarantees. These give the wrong impression that if you have faith, you will escape the wrath. 2.      In fact, the Lord warns us that the more we are faithful, the more we will face opposition, and go through suffering and persecution. There will be rejection and abandonment by our own people. These are truly the testing and trying times. But we need not be frightened or lose heart. We need not be preoccupied and overanxious as to how to face such a situation. 3.      Rather, let us place our entire trust in God and abandon ourselves to Him. Let us confide in his assurance, “I will give you a mouth and wisdom, which none of your adversaries will be able to withstand or contradict.” Let us rest assured in his protective care that “not a hair of your head will perish.” 4.      Let us be people filled with holy hope that endows us with a positive and higher perspective. We shall not sink into despair or hopelessness. But we shall look at all these as “our opportunity to bear witness.” We shall remember that gold is tested in the fire to prove its purity. In the same way, the strength and the quality of faith and faithfulness are tested in the crucible of suffering and perseverance. 5.      Let us also be charged and encouraged by the hope in the reward of eternity. The Lord promises, “By your endurance, you will gain your lives.” Let us be sure that if we conquer the beast (of evil) as in the first reading, we too will sing the song of the Lamb, in his heavenly presence. Imperative: Our endurance will be our witness and for sure it will bring us eternal rewarķ 30 NOVEMBER 2023: ROMANS 10. 9-18; MATTHEW 4. 18-22, ST ANDREW Focus: Called to follow! Indicative: Whom God calls, how and when, and where He calls may be different. But why He calls is very clear. It is to follow Him and win souls for God 1.      Today we feast on St Andrew, one of the Twelve Apostles. He was a fisherman and the brother of Simon Peter. Jesus called him while he was fishing, saying, “Follow me, I will make you fishers of souls”. There is both the purpose and the end effect of his call. 2.      The purpose is to follow the Lord intimately in his footsteps. He would live with the Lord, share the same space, table, and mission, and spend time together. He would listen to his master, learn from him and grow through his teaching and guidance. 3.       Then, there is also the consequence of this purpose. It is fishing souls for God. It is bringing people closer to God. It is making people be touched and transformed by God. It is doing the work of God Himself who is the supreme fisherman of human souls, the greatest attracter and inducer of humans to merge with the divine. 4.       It is because they share the same life that He gifts to them. Sin has alienated them from God’s paradise of eternal communion. Sin has thrown them into an immense sea where they feel totally entrapped and immersed; where they find no way out. 5.       It is in such a sinful situation of lack of relation and direction toward God and others, the Lord chooses Andrew to reset the lost bond and restore the lost grace. Thus, following the Lord and fishing the souls is not merely becoming disciples and doing some evangelisation. It is an intimate and radical sharing in God’s own eternal duty and commitment. 6.       Andrew along with the others called, promptly responds to this divine plan. Perhaps for sure, he might have not understood the full implications of that call. But what is appreciable is his promptness to accept the call. Thereupon he renounces all that belongs to him and clings to Jesus. It was not for a few days or a few years. It was a life-long following and mission. 7.       This life-long apostleship is sealed by a personal relationship. And this relationship is marked by depth, constancy, intimacy, loyalty, and commitment. All these are soaked into a passionate love for the master, which goes to the extent of dying for him.   Direction: Every celebration of a saint and all the more that of an Apostle like Andrew must remind us that ultimately our call is a relationship with God that is deep and intimate and a commitment to His mission that is committed and self-offering.  (Reflection 2) Indicative: God calls us anywhere or at any time. Especially He may call us in our own ordinary situations, amidst our normal duties. What is important is that we hear and receive his call 1.      30 November marks the feast of St Andrew, the brother of St Peter, and one of the Twelve Apostles. He was called directly by the Lord to follow him. He left everything and lived with 2.       One first thing to note is that Jesus called him while he was on his usual duty of fishing. There was no specially created situation. There was no special ambience of prayer or silence. From this, we can understand that God’s call can come to us anywhere and at any time. 3.       We need not wait for special or specific moments. Especially his voice may call out to us while we are engaged in our normal duties. This calls us then to be attentive and alert so that we can see him, hear his voice and respond to him. We may miss him if we wait only for special occasions. 4.       His call is a call for something higher. It is no more fishing of fish but fishing of souls. His dignity is raised. He is elevated to a new way of life. A profit-oriented profession turns into a selfless vocation. Working for livelihood changes into working for life in eternity. Family concerns give way to the concerns of the larger family of God, the kingdom of God. 5.       His response to Jesus’ call to follow him is very prompt and radical as well. There was no delay or hesitation. There was no process of discernment. Jesus just calls him, “Follow me,” and immediately he follows him. 6.       What is further worth-noting is the spirit of renunciation and detachment. He leaves the nets, the family, the house, and all that is dear and precious. He does not carry them with him. He decisively parts with all that is old and is willing to plunge into a new way of life. There is nothing that he clings to or is attached to. 7.       The gospel of John (John 1. 35-42) depicts a different story of his call. He was a former disciple of John of the Baptist. As John the Baptist points to Jesus passing by, “Look, here is the Lamb of God,” he immediately begins to follow him. Jesus turns to him and asks him, “What are you looking for?” 8.       Andrew responds with another question, “Where do you stay?” Jesus invites him, “Come and see.” He goes, sees, and stays with him that night. It was not just a casual stay as a guest. Something profound and dramatic happens. He experiences Jesus personally as the Messiah. That is why he brings his brother Peter to Jesus, telling him, “We have found the Messiah.” 9.       Here too, though the external details vary, the essentials are similar. His call begins with an initial search for Jesus’place (‘where’). But it turns into a life-changing experience of the person (‘Messiah’). His allegiance changes. He already shares the effect of his following Jesus by leading Peter too to the same Lord.   Imperative: God always calls us for a higher purpose. That is the same as the Apostles’. It is to become fishers of souls. For this, we need to decisively part with the old ways and attachments and securities. We need to launch upon a new and radical way of life in following Jesus 01 DECEMBER 2023: DAN 7. 2-14; LUKE 21. 29-33 Focus: End is near! Indicative: Problems and persecutions, terrors and destruction may cause some fear and worry. But as children of God and followers of Christ, they shall not shake our faith or throw us into dissipation 1.      No one’s life is easy and all pleasant. Every life will have its own tales of worry and grief. All the more, the strange logic of life in this world is those who are on the side of God and good will certainly suffer. It is the cost of the high and godly. It is the price that is to be paid. 2.      On the other hand, life on earth is also beset with a lot of unfavourable and adverse natural reversals and happenings. Different explanations may be given. Most of the human suffering like poverty, dehumanization, etc. may be due to human wickedness and selfishness. 3.      Most of the natural suffering caused by natural calamities may be partly due to the human upsetting of the environmental balance and harmony. However, suffering remains always a mystery that cannot be fully grasped. 4.      Whatever the cause of suffering, suffering is a reality. For a follower of Christ, suffering for his faith and for the sake of the good of others is always an opportunity to persevere in patience and hopefulness. Adverse situations do not mean that evil dominates God and good. They are testing grounds. They are indicators that “the kingdom of God is near”. 5.      The victory of evil and the defeat of good are only temporary. For, as we hear Daniel in the first reading, “To him belongs all dominion, glory and kingdom; all peoples, nations and languages should serve him; his dominion is an everlasting dominion, which shall not pass away, and his kingdom is one that shall not be destroyed”. 6.      “Heaven and earth will pass away, but his words will not pass away”. Therefore, when all these adverse things happen, understand that it is all part of the process. Just as the fig tree’s different stages show the different seasons, so also all the occurrences in life are pointers toward the kingdom of God. Imperative: The negative and unfavourable experiences in life shall not distract or distort us from God and His kingdom. Rather, they work as timely triggers that press our attention on our destiny (Reflection 2)   Thrust: Newness adorned! Indicative: Suffering and Destruction are unpleasant, undesirable, and frightening. But we can look beyond them as a threshold for newness7 and eternity of life 1.      Death and life are quite evident realities in our human life. Life ends when death comes. Thus death marks the end of life. This is the natural human reality. But for us believers and followers of Christ, it is a totally different perspective. Death is not a complete cessation of life but a continuation of life in a different way and form. 2.      Death is the point of transition and passage from one kind of life to another. Life changes but continues. Death is the bridge where one walks from temporal earthly existence to the eternal heavenly presence. 3.      Death is the point of movement from temporality to eternity, from perishability to imperishability, from the physical to the spiritual realm, and from the earthly domain to the heavenly domain.  This movement and transition happen at God’s judgment. At death, all are subject to divine judgment. 4.      Thus death becomes the decisive moment for one’s destiny, either redemption and eternal bliss, or damnation and eternal hell. There is no point here in arguing about why God can condemn some to eternal hell without any mercy. The issue here is that “each one is judged according to what they have done” on this earth. The book of life will be opened and heaven or hell is decided based on name or no name in the book. 5.      Numberless opportunities are given to everyone. So many signs and indications are provided to us to understand and accordingly take proper actions. Just as the fig tree and other trees begin to grow and bear fruit according to the season, so also we must continue to flourish and fructify progressively. 6.      We are able to read and know and interpret the seasons. In the same way, we must be attentive and alert to understand the message and cautions of the times. We must know that all these signs indicate that the kingdom of God is near. We shall not be stuck up with the adverse turns and destructive elements in life. Rather we shall focus on what is beyond. 7.      Beyond destruction, there is reconstruction. Beyond the darkness, there is perpetual light. Beyond defeat, there is victory. Beyond failure, there is a success. Beyond suffering, there is glory. Beyond sadness, there is joy. All the testing and difficult times are an orientation and an opening to “a new heaven and a new earth.” Imperative: No difficulties and afflictions in life should take away the joy of our hope in the future things. We must be firmly convinced of our eternal destiny. There is life in heaven that never ends after the life that ends on earth 02 DECEMBER 2023: DAN 7. 15-27; LUKE 21. 34-36   Focus: Viligant and diligent! Indicative: Perishability is a bounden truth of earthly human life. Everything that is earthly will perish and pass. Only God and His kingdom remain!   1.      It is really ironic that the human brain that is able to see, calculate, and plan for centuries ahead, fails to see beyond its own death. He who achieves much does not remember much that all that is physical and material is perishable. 2.      Consequently, often man engrosses himself in what is on earth. He becomes so earth-bound and life becomes so short-sighted. In Jesus’ own words, “hearts get weighed down with dissipation and drunkenness and cares of this life”. 3.      These words of Jesus mean a lot. There is a warning to guard against the danger of making our hearts heavy and burdened with worthless weights. There is an invitation to make our hearts light getting rid of all unnecessary loads. Jesus is also very clear about what makes us weighed down. He lists out three main factors: dissipation, drunkenness and cares of this life. 4.      Jesus is very practical and realistic. He knows very well that these often make our lives joyless and burdensome. We often fall into bouts of dissatisfaction, discouragement, emptiness and depression. There is also an increasing drink-culture. 5.      However, drunkenness can be understood as a comfort and pleasure-seeking culture and can indicate an easy-going and compromising life. It is being “drunk with worldliness”. And then there is always the trap of over-anxiety about the preoccupations, pursuits and interests of the world. 6.      What then is the remedy? Be constantly aware that the end is sure but sudden and unexpected. Therefore, be prepared. Watch at all times. Pray ceaselessly to become strong to stand firm, and to stand worthy before the judgment of God.   Imperative: Watchfulness and prayerfulness in faithfulness and goodness are the antidotes for a worrisome life amidst the pulls of pleasures and pressures   (Reflection 2)   Thrust: Get ready! Indicative: Behold, the Lord is coming soon. Therefore, be prepared and ready so that we are not caught unawares and shocked 1.      We have a series of admonitions from Jesus. They concern our preparation to meet the end times and God’s judgment. The day of judgment and reckoning will be sudden and unexpected. It will come like a trap. It will spare no one and none can escape it. 2.      Therefore there should be a fitting preparation. How? We must follow three main directives: Be watchful. Be awake. Pray at all times. Many times many get entangled with the affairs of the world. Their hearts become weighed down with dissipation, drunkenness, and cares of this life. 3.      This implies unnecessary worries and tensions that dissipate us, pleasures and gratifications that keep us drunk and blurred, and unworthy worldly affairs and pursuits that deviate and divert our focus. 4.      This is exactly the situation of a defocused and harmful “immersion” of which Jesus warns us in the gospel. He cautions: Don’t immerse yourselves in a life of pleasure, drunkenness and worldly cares. 5.      The danger and the undesirable consequence is that we will be caught unawares like a trap, before God on the day of judgment. To counteract this destructive immersion, what is needed is a constructive “inversion” into God. This implies to be ever attentive and on guard, to be ever watchful and praying. 6.      Our watchfulness and praying will guard us against such harmful leanings. They will keep our hearts light, sober, and unpreoccupied. They will give us the strength not to succumb and fall prey to such temptations and negative pressures. They will make us stand worthy before the Lord. Imperative: What a foolishness it is that man loses one whole eternity for the sake of a fraction of temporality, that he loses the immensity of bliss in exchange for a shallow pleasure!                

CHRIST THE KING FEAST 23

CHRIST THE KING, 34TH SUNDAY, 26 NOVEMBER 2023   Thrust: Hail the true King! Indicative: Christ is king in the truest sense because he reigns over his subjects, takes care of them and constantly works to spread his reign beyond the territories and boundaries   1. We celebrate the solemnity of Christ the King. This 34th Sunday marks the end of the ordinary liturgical year. He is a king with a difference, made and makes a difference and summons his followers too to make a difference. He is a king by contrast. he stands apart from all the rest of the kings. 2. He is king by his very nature. His kingship or kingdom is not something inherited or acquired. It is not something extraneous to him, added from outside. It is his own. He is the Son of God, seated in the kingdom of heaven, beside the Father. 3. He is the king of all, a universal king. There are no boundaries or restrictions. His kingdom is not confined to some specified territory. His subjects are not defined by any particular area or religion or language or culture. People of the whole universe belong to him. There are no divisions or discrimination. There are no exclusions. 4. He is a spiritual king. His kingship is not earthly or worldly. He does not fight wars with the other kings to conquer their kingdoms. He does not sit on an earthly throne and rule over his people, demarcated by a certain territory. He rules in the spiritual realm. He reigns over hearts. 5. He is a peaceful king. In his reign, there is peace and harmony. There is no violence or bloodshed. He does not use violent means to dominate and subjugate others. Death and destruction are totally out of his kingship. 6. He is a humble king. There is no pomp, no display of self-glory and no craving or striving for it. There are no traces of pride and arrogance in him. Though all glory belongs to him and he is above all, he does not suppress them or overpower them. He humbled himself to become an ordinary human being like us. Though Son of God and possessed all the divine power of working miracles and wonders, he never paraded his greatness and sought to impress others. 7. He is a gentle and meek king. There is no particle of rudeness or harshness. He would treat even his deadliest enemies with the utmost gentleness, and respect. He would certainly rebuke, admonish and correct regarding truth and authenticity. But he would never despise or degrade anyone. 8. He is a virtuous king. Unlike many other kings and rulers, he does not carry the baggage of weaknesses or defects. He is not subject to any vices or addictions. There is no malice or guile in him. There is no negative that he tries to hide within. 9. He is an authentic king. There is no iota of duplicity or hypocrisy in him. He does not say one thing and do the opposite. He practises what he preaches. He lives what he believes. He follows what he expects from others. He is what he appears outside whereby there is no contradiction between his interior and exterior. There is no falsity or pretension in them. 10. He is a sacrificing king. He empties himself for the sake of filling others. He impoverishes himself so as to enrich others. He lowers himself so as to raise others to dignity. Cross is the biggest testimony of his sacrifice and self-effacement. He even dies so as to revive and renew with new and eternal life. 11. He is a healing king. This is one key ingredient of his mission. He came to heal the sick, to restore them to health. This is holistic health, and not limited only to the physical aspect. Real health is when the person is able to live with human dignity and experience the beauty and joy of life. 12. He is a merciful and forgiving king. He never condemns others, even the greatest sinner. He never refuses to offer forgiveness to others, even when done the greatest harm. Forgiveness for him is not a favour given at one’s convenience; rather it is an obligation. He does not keep an account of our sinfulness. All that he wants is to repent and return to him. 13. He is a passionate king. There is no room for tepidity or lukewarmness in him. Indifference and mediocrity would be frightened to go near him. Zeal for God and His mission is like an ever-burning fire. 14. He is a shepherding king. He takes meticulous care of his subjects. He leads them to pastures, fresh and green. He feeds them, nourishes and strengthens them. He never neglects them. He never subjects them to starvation and malnutrition. 15. He is a valiant and persevering king. He waged a relentless battle against evil. He was assaulted violently all through his life. Even on the cross also, he was tempted to go against God’s plan and go his own way. He was criticised and persecuted for his goodness and integrity. But he would never relent. 16. He is a saving king. This is the fundamental purpose for which he incarnated himself. He came to remit our sins by the shedding of his blood on the cross. Thus he redeemed us. 17. He is a leader-king. He leads us by example. He not only knows the way, not only shows the way but also walks the way, walks us in the same way and leads us to destiny.   Imperative: Let us learn to give up our petty self-made kingdoms. Let us stop being arrogant and puffed-up kings. Let us learn to follow the one king. Let us strive to spread his kingdom of love and truth   (Reflection 2) Focus: Christ is the king of the universe. But it is not in terms of power and subjugation. Rather it is in terms of love and animation 1.      Today we celebrate the Solemnity of Christ the King with great joy and honour. This Sunday marks the last Sunday of the ordinary liturgical year as we will step into the holy season of Advent next Sunday. This placement at the end of the ordinary year can indicate something significant: our whole life with all its ordinariness culminates in the kingship of Christ. We find our end and fulfillment under the reign of Christ. Our entire life must be geared and oriented toward Christ the Lord. 2.      The concepts of king, kingship, and kingdom are not strange to us. History has seen a great many kings and kingdoms, both benevolent and malevolent, both just and unjust, righteous and wicked, promotive and destructive. But when we say and celebrate Christ as King, there is an enormous difference. 3.      One obvious and explicit difference is he is a king with no demarcated territory of the kingdom. There are no boundaries. There are no disparities or inequalities. It is a boundless, boundaryless kingdom. It is a way of life. It is open to all and embraces all. There is equity and justice. There is no hierarchy of higher or lower, no scope for subjugation and suppression. There is no division or discrimination. There is no partiality or favouritism. 4.      There is no aggression or violence. There is no death and destruction. There is no falsity or deception. There is no manipulation and corruption. There is no ruthless seeking power and popularity. Rightly, he is a king of hearts. He is the king of souls. He is the king of communities and families. He is a spiritual king. 5.      Thus his kingdom is not a location or domain. It is a reign and ambience of love, justice, mercy, joy, and peace. It is a reign of truth and authenticity, loyalty and commitment. It is where one readily makes himself “the first to become the last and the servant”. It is the divine reign where one “serves and not craves to be served”. It is where one loves selflessly even to the extent of “dying for the other”. It is where one seeks relentlessly the will of God. It is where one can affirm courageously, “Behold the handmaid of the Lord, let everything happen according to your holy word and will”. 6.      In sum, Christ is king when and where he reigns with his virtues and values. Where there is love and not hatred, peace and not violence, reconciliation and not retaliation, forgiveness and not grudge, altruism and not egoism, truth and not duplicity, humility and not arrogance, unity and parity and not division and discrimination, magnanimity and not malice, generosity and not jealousy, purity and not pollution – there and then is Christ the king, his kingship and kingdom. 7.      Today, many followers of this unparalleled and unique king sadly “profane” and “secularize” their king because they themselves are such, stung by high profanity and mundanity. They forget that they are citizens of a spiritual kingdom and not a temporal one. They forget that it is a spiritual reign and not a material domain or gain. They forget the very fact that they are only members and subjects and not the king or master themselves. They ignore the very pillars of this kingdom and build petty kingdoms with worldly pillars and ingredients.   Direction: Time is ripe now to demolish all the false kingdoms based on money, manipulation, deception, corrupt power and lording authority, discrimination, aggression, malice, and destruction. Let our prayer be sincere: “Let  your kingdom come!"  

33RD WEEK DAYS MASS REFLECTION 23

20 - 25 NOVEMBER 2023, HOLY MASS REFLECTIONS   20 NOVEMBER 2023: 1 MACC 1. 10-15, 41-43, 54-57, 62-63; LUKE 18. 35-43 Focus: Lord, let me see! Indicative: True faith is the interior sight that enables one to see what is true, good and pleasing in God’s sight. Any abandonment of faith is nothing but blindness 1.      In the gospel, Jesus heals a blind man. His persistence is a striking fact. When he begins to cry out to Jesus to heal him, the people around rebuke him to be silent. But he cries out all the more. This has a semblance in the first reading from the first Maccabees. 2. Israel was surrounded by the Gentiles and misled by some lawless men. Many from Israel abandoned the holy covenant and sold themselves to do evil. However, many others in Israel stood firm. They chose to die and did die rather than to be defiled or to profane the holy covenant. 3.      This is an inspiration and challenge to all the followers of Christ and all the believers of God. When there are so many opposing forces, when there are many negative and misleading influences, still can they remain clear and firm? Even when their life is at stake because of their choice for God and justice, can they remain stable and loyal? 4.      Especially in our own times, when false values are profitable and rewarding, when compromises bring forth lucrative results and dividends, do we resist and persist? Is it not true that today too there are many who abandon God and sell themselves to do evil, like those in Israel? 5.      This is truly the blindness of heart and soul. Disloyalty is that blindness where one fails to see fidelity to God and the right values as the greatest priority in life. Like the blind man who says to Jesus, “Lord, let me receive my sight”, let us also plead with him to give us the sight. Imperative: How many of us are really loyal and persevering to choose to die rather than to be defiled by false trends and values and to profane the holy covenant of God? (Reflection 2) Focus: When we are weighed down by the burden of difficulties, let us not lose heart. Let us turn to Jesus. Let us trust in His compassion. Let us cry out to him. And we will surely experience his relieving intervention.   1.      Today the Word of God invites us to focus on blindness, especially in the light of the healing of a blind man in the gospel. The scene is dramatic. There is a blind beggar. He cries out to Jesus to have mercy on him. 2.       The annoyed and irritated people chide him and try to quieten him. But he continues to shout aloud. Jesus calls for him and asks him, “What do you want me to do for you?”. He replies, “Master, let me receive my sight”. Jesus says, “Go your way; your faith has made you well”. Immediately he received his sight. 3.        Some simple details are notable. The blind man is a beggar. He is reduced to beggary. This shows the loss of human dignity and also his condition of dependence on others’ mercy. Thus, blindness is not merely a matter of physical deformity. 4.       It is more pervasive affecting the whole person. And the blind man is aware of his need. He needs sight, not only the physical. He needs the ability to see his own lost dignity, the lost beauty of life, and the lost joy of relationships. 5.       He is clear about what he wants. Jesus too wants us to be clear about what we really want. That is why, Jesus asks him, “What do you want me to do for you?” And he rightly replies, “I want to see”. Sight is his priority and nothing else because he knows that by regaining sight, he will regain all that has been lost. 6.       That is why he starts crying out loud. He would persist despite people’s rebuke. He would catch the attention of the master. He was determined to stop the master’s mercy on the roadside. And when Jesus called for him, he was already sure of the Lord’s healing. 7.       At this point, we can note that this physical blindness is more symbolic. It indicates wider and more pervasive blindness. What Jesus heals is not merely physical blindness. His healing is a restoration of holistic sight. Sin causes different layers of blindness. Sin makes us blind toward God, toward others, toward our own self, toward life, toward society, and the whole creation. 8.       The question of Jesus is very valid: “What do you want me to do for you?” The blind man knew what he lacked and what he needed. Do we know what we want? Do we realize what we lack? Do we realize that we are blind in very many ways and that we fail to see very many things? 9.       How often we are blind toward God, failing to see His love, His will, and His holy plans? How often we are blind toward others, failing to see them as our brothers and sisters, as our fellow travellers, who have their own good and also struggles? How often we are blind toward our own self, failing to see ourselves as we are, with our merits and demerits as well? 10.   How much do we fail to see our true image in the likeness of God, and also the false sheathes that are covering heavily this deeper image? How much do we fail to see life as a blend of the pleasant and the unpleasant, good and bad? 11.   How often do we fail to see the true nature of life as transient on earth and destined toward eternity? How much do we fail to see our duty toward society and its role in our lives? How often do we fail to see our moral obligations as social persons? And how much do we also fail to see the whole creation as a handiwork of God and thus nurture a sense of stewarding and care toward it instead of manipulating and destroying it?   Direction: All of us are blind in different ways. We must realise and accept it in sincerity. We must in faith run to the Lord for sight. But once healed, we must walk the Lord’s way and not our own way    21 NOVEMBER 2023: 2 MACC 6. 18-31; LUKE 19. 1-10   Focus: Faith is faithfulness! Indicative: Faith is not merely believing some doctrines and following certain laws and traditions. Faith is essentially a matter of faithfulness come what may 1.      In today’s word of God, we have two great examples of faith. In the first reading from 2 Maccabees, we have the example of Eleazar, a renowned scribe. He was forced and allured to violate his God-given law by eating the forbidden meat. But no fear of death or no persuasion to pretend to eat in order to escape would swerve him from his conviction and perseverance. 2.      He preferred to embrace death rather than save his life. He preferred to die a noble death rather than live a disgraceful life. He preferred death and then eternal life rather than a little extended life but then an eternal damnation. He stood steadfast in his fidelity to God. Thus, in his death, he set an example of nobility and courage. 3.      In the gospel, in the person of Zacchaeus, we have another example of faith. Of course, this is a faith, different from Eleazar's. While Eleazar remained rooted and clung to his long-inherited faith, Zacchaeus received new faith. He made a total about-turn. He turned to Jesus with a passionate heart, and he tuned his whole life to the person and following of Jesus. 4.      He truly made a journey of faith. This is seen in his transition from a deep desire to encounter Jesus to a total conversion and transformation of life. From the extortion of a tax collector, there is a big leap of distributing half of his property to the poor and fourfold repay to those defrauded. Thereby, he is counted as a son of Abraham from being labelled as an ostracized sinner. He is blessed with salvation, being liberated from the curse of sin. 5.      The memorial of the Presentation of Mary of today is a timely reminder for us of this blessing and salvation. It is said that already at the age of three, the child Mary was offered to God in the temple. And from that moment till the end and now as well, the life of Mary is one unceasing act of blessing and salvation.   Imperative: We are constantly reminded about how we should traverse the journey of faith. We need to constantly transit from imperfect faith to perfect faith. We must safeguard and preserve the gift and treasure of faith in faithfulness (Reflection 2) Focus: All that matters to God is not status or position, but a humble and honest heart. Every sincere and committed effort on behalf of God will win His abundant grace   1.      The story of Zacchaeus is a great source of consolation and encouragement for all. For God's grace accepts and graces us despite our unworthiness and failures. Zacchaeus, being a tax collector was labelled as a sinner and was despised. 2.      Yet Jesus was not conditioned by these human considerations, calculations, or labels. He is not prejudiced. He is not resentful or judgmental. He does not condemn him but readily offers his mercy and salvation. 3.      For his part, Zacchaeus does his homework. He nurtures a profound desire and motivation to see Jesus. He is not discouraged by the obstacles of his shortness and crowd; he takes the trouble to surpass these blocks by placing himself on high climbing a sycamore tree. He encounters Jesus. He responds to Jesus' invitation to be his guest and celebrates his presence with a banquet. 4.      He undergoes a deep conversion. He testifies his conversion by a concrete and abundantly generous act of renouncing and sharing: half of his property with the poor, and fourfold repay to all those defrauded. 5.      Thus, he truly deserves the blessing and salvation of God. Jesus pronounces the heart-soothing words: “Today, salvation has come to this house. He too is a son of Abraham”. It is not just a blessing and a compliment. 6.      It is the greatest gift that one can expect: He is given a new dignity. He is raised from the low level of being a sinner to the noble status of being a son of Abraham, that is, one of the chosen people. He is blessed with salvation, being saved from the curse of sin. 7.      What is our journey? Do we desire and set out to encounter Jesus, to be touched and transformed by him? How concrete and authentic is our conversion? Very truly, the biggest block in this journey is our tepidity and lukewarmness.   Direction: When one discovers Jesus, the greatest treasure, one will not still be possessed by the possessions. One will not continue unconverted and untransformed   22 NOVEMBER 2023: 2 MACC 7. 1, 20-31; LUKE 19. 11-28   Focus: Laid waste or put to use? Indicative: We are gifted and talented in abundant ways. But the greatness does not depend on the numerosity of the talents. Rather it depends on the abundance of their use and beneficialness. 1.      The parable of talents in today’s gospel is a familiar one to many. A nobleman gives his ten servants one pound each to trade with them. On his return from his trip afar, the servants are summoned to his presence. All gave back to him added pounds as a result of trading, except one. 2.      He lays it in a napkin and gives it back to his master. He did no trading. He laid it to waste. He has no regrets for not putting the pound to use. All the more, he blames his master for being a severe and greedy man and so he is faithfully returning the one pound. 3.      Obviously, he incurs the wrath of his master on both counts. One, because he failed to be productive; the other, he falsely accuses his master so as to cover up his failure. How often, are we also not like that last servant? 4.      God has gifted us with an abundance of gifts. These can be in the form of some external talents and skills like intelligence and knowledge, eloquence, singing, dancing, et cetera. These also can be in the form of more basic gifts like the ability to love, to give, to forgive, in sum, the whole inner power of virtues. 5.      God certainly expects results and fruits. How many gifts and talents is not the matter. Rather how and how much do we make use of God-given gifts or talents for the sake of God and good is what matters. We need to bear in mind that concerning external and technical talents, there can be variations. 6.      But we need not bother too much about this fact of difference. It is a matter of difference and divergence. It should not be a matter of discrimination. We must be more concerned about the more profound, basic and abiding qualities and gifts like love and virtue. 7.      This is where we have the glowing example of a mother and her seven sons in the first reading from the 2 Maccabees. She perseveres in her faith not only personally but also motivates and encourages her sons to remain loyal to their God even in the face of death. Their faith is the greatest gift and talent. And we are called to preserve and foster this gift always. 8.       St Cecilia whom we commemorate today lived a holy and committed life with a passionate love for the Lord to the extent of martyrdom. Thus she could merit the heavenly crown. Imperative: Let us not blame God for our lack of responsibility and accountability. Let us become more assiduous and productive. Let us always be faithful stewards and servants (Reflection 2) Thrust: Rich but wasted! Indicative: In life suffering and misery are not always because of the lack or scarcity of resources or abilities but because of the lack of goodwill and personal application   1.      In the gospel, we have the famous parable of talents. Usually, it is interpreted as encouraging and challenging us to discover and develop our talents. This is a valid direction of reflection. But we can expand it a little more. We can apply it to the whole life in its entirety. 2.       The gospel mentions “a nobleman who goes to a far country to receive for himself a kingdom and then return.” This can very well indicate Jesus himself. He is sent by the Father from heaven to the far country of the earth to establish his kingdom and then return. 3.       As the nobleman in the parable is hated by his citizens, so too Jesus was hated by his own people, the Pharisees, and scribes. Just as the people sent a delegation after him, saying, “We do not want this man to reign over us,” so too Jesus’ people constantly reject him, resisting his reign over them. 4.       Now, just as the nobleman entrusted one mina each to ten of his servants before he left, so too Jesus is entrusting the riches of his blessings, the treasure of his grace. In difference to Matthew 25. 14-30 where the master gives 5, 2, and 1 talents to three of his servants, here in Luke, ten servants are given equally, one each mina. 5.       The point is clear: all of us are given God’s spiritual riches. There is no exemption, exclusion or discrimination concerning God’s grace. We are blessed with varied talents. We are expected to put them to use and to be responsible and diligent. We must be productive and bring out abundant fruits. 6.       On his return, the Lord would see a reckoning. The first two prospered one mina into 10 and 5 respectively. They are appreciated and rewarded richly with 10 and 5 respectively. Their fidelity in small things brings a rich reward. But the last one hid it unused in a handkerchief and gave it back to the master.   Imperative: The more we have zeal and productivity, the more we will be blessed. One who has, more he will be given   23 NOVEMBER 2023: 1 MACC 2. 15-29; LUKE 19. 41-44   Focus: Love that languishes! Indicative: What is very consoling and heartening is that our God is a God of heart. He feels for us and with us. He is so sensitive that he even weeps over us, for our plight and flight with evil 1.      Jesus weeps over Jerusalem because he knows her impending destruction. The city and the temple were symbols of glory and honour. But these external causes of greatness would not save them from their fateful misery. 2.      Jesus also states the reason for this destructive end. It is because they did not recognize the time of God’s visitation to them. In the context of the history of salvation, “God visits His people” would mean that he enters into their lives, encounters them and also intervenes in their testing times and transforms their condition. 3.      Truly God visited his people in and through his own Son, Jesus. He offered them his love, guided them with his light and strengthened them with his power. But sadly, the people did not accept him and cooperate with him. 4.      They rejected his message and the effect of his saving acts. Consequently, they invited upon themselves destruction. In fact, it is a self-destruction. They cannot blame anyone else for their pitiable ruin except their own selves. 5.      In contrast, in the first reading from 1 Maccabees, we have a glorious model of loyalty in the person of Mattathias, a great leader in the city of Modein. He was allured to be numbered among the friends of the king and to be honoured with silver and gold and many gifts, if only they deserted the God of their fathers and obey the king’s orders for apostasy. 6.      But undaunted was the courage and faith of Mattathias. He declares boldly, “Even if all the nations that live under the rule of the king obey him, yet I and my sons and my brothers will live by the covenant of our fathers. Far be it from us to desert the law and the ordinances. We will not obey the king’s words by turning aside from our religion to the right hand or to the left hand”. 7.      He burned with zeal, defied the king’s order, killed a man who came to offer sacrifice, killed the king’s officer, and left all that they had in the city and fled to the hills, with his sons and many other loyal Israel. 8.      His example urges us for a renewed zeal for God, God’s house and God’s holy statutes. We must remain faithful to the laws and ordinances inherited through our long and hallowed traditions. Even though we are threatened and intimidated by dire consequences, we must not swerve in our loyalty. Imperative: In a world and religion of mediocrity and lukewarmness especially in matters of faith and charity, true followers of Christ must revive and rekindle the losing fire of burning zeal for God and conviction (Reflection 2) Arrow: If only you know the ways of God? Focus: No amount of external glory or worldly accomplishments can substitute for openness to God and His grace   1.      Jesus weeps over Jerusalem. No doubt that the city and temple of Jerusalem are icons of glory and pride for their people. But this glory and greatness cannot save them, they fail to be receptive and cooperative to God’s grace. 2.      All the exterior splendour, pomp and name cannot condone and make good for their lack of receptivity and cooperation. God in His mercy has come to visit His people and save them through His only Son Jesus. 3.      He shows them the ways of peace and urges them to walk these ways. He immolates himself for their sake. He bails himself out as ransom in order to purchase them back. But they do not recognize God's visitation. They become obstinate and refuse to adhere to Jesus. This deeply anguishes the loving heart of Jesus who cries out bitter tears. 4.      God continues to weep over us and the whole of humanity. His heart languishes looking at how man prides himself in the external displays and glories. He is deeply pained by how man seeks vain pleasures. 5.      He is agonized at how man willingly renders himself in the hands of the enemies. True to Jesus’ words in the gospel passage, the “enemies surround him with barricades, shut him in and press on him on every side. And they will dash him and his children to the ground. They will not leave a stone upon a stone within his manmade kingdom”. How truly today’s man is bound in manifold ways!   Direction: It is better to weep over making Jesus weep for us, instead of priding ourselves in vain and shallow glories   24 NOVEMBER 2023: 1 MACC 4. 36-37, 52-59; LUKE 19. 45-48 Focus: Zeal for the sacred! Indicative: One of the greatest tragedies of today’s society is the loss of the sense of the sacred. A spirit and culture of profanity has invaded all the spheres of life 1.      In the first reading from the 1 Maccabees, we have a vivid and touching description of the rededication of the Jerusalem temple by Judas, his brothers and many other faithful Israel. They cleanse the temple, build a new altar, offer sacrifices, fall on their faces and worship and bless heaven, gratefully recollect His mighty and merciful interventions, and sing on harps, lutes and cymbals. They restore the gates and chambers for the priests. They decorate the front of the temple with golden crowns and small shields. They also decided on its annual memorial. 2.      It was indeed a memorable celebration of rededication. It was not only a rededication of the temple but at the same time a rededication of the people as well. They renew their fidelity to God. They recapture the lost spirit and lost covenantal relationship with God. They put an end to all their profanity and perversity and vow to be straight and upright in the ways of God. 3.      In the gospel too, we have a similar act of reconsecration of the temple by Jesus. Jesus cleanses the temple that has become a business place, a “den of robbers”. The holy temple was truly desecrated and it needed a reconsecration. Jesus needed the guts and he had them. He knew that it would aggravate animosity against him as the authorities sought to destroy him as an immediate reaction. But nothing would deter his zeal for God and His holy abode. 4.      Jesus was filled with a holy fire of just anger because the sacredness was not only ignored and abandoned but also replaced by profanity. The House of Prayer was turned into a den of robbers! These two incidents of reconsecration must strongly challenge us about our own frequent tendencies and acts of desecration of our temples. 5.      Desecration of the temple takes place in two ways. It is a direct desecration whenever we do not sustain an ambience of the holy in our churches. Whenever we fail to experience and foster an atmosphere of holiness, there is desecration. Besides, whenever we use our churches for profane purposes, turning them into marketing or advertising or organizing halls, there is desecration. 6.      But there is also another serious desecration. Whenever people enter the holy temple with desecrated hearts and lives, there is also a grievous desecration. When the temple is peopled with people, so much polluted by sin and evil, it is a pervasive desecration. Imperative: It is not enough that we decorate and venerate our churches and celebrate various spiritual activities in them. We must make sure that they transmit an aura of holiness and cleanse us. We need a reconsecration both of our temples and believers! (Reflection 2) Focus: Sense of the sacred and fear of God alone will lead to order and harmony in life   1.      Jesus does a sort of temple cleansing. He appears rather violent and drives out all the marketing and shopping in the temple area. The driving motive behind this just anger is his passion for the sanctity of God’s holy house. How could the most Holy One of God compromise on desecrating what is consecrated? 2.      The same can be the situation in the present times. One of the major tragedies of today's society is temples that are consecrated are getting desecrated. This happens in both the senses and aspects of the temple. 3.      First, the temple refers to the churches, the holy places of worship. Second, the temple refers to the human person himself. We read in 1 Corinthians 3. 16: "Do you not know that you are a temple of God and that the Spirit of God dwells in you?". 4.      Churches are houses of prayer, the unique place of God's personal presence. But sadly, not seldom they are turned into centres and domains of secondary and shallow interests and transactions like the "den of robbers". 5.      They become auditoriums for organizational activities. They become stages for displays, platforms for socialization, and launching grounds for self-deliveries. The spiritual ambience which is crucial to a church is often missing. 6.      Further, day by the human person is increasingly getting desecrated and polluted by many deviated and aberrant, destructive, and harmful thoughts, words, and actions. We need a thorough cleansing.   Direction: We need to recapture our sense and culture of communion with God in humble devotion and surrender. We need to regain our lost innocence and purity of heart and the human person   25 NOVEMBER 2023: 1 MACC 6. 1-13; LUKE 20. 27-40   Focus: Life beyond death! Indicative: We are given this life so that we can live it well. This earthly life is only a temporary duration and we should never lose sight of what lies after 1.      We often experience and witness a dominant culture of death. A lot of fear, violence and destruction surrounds us. Respect for life and human dignity, values and relationships is fast declining. 2.      The idea of God as well as the approach to Him are shallow and defective. God is seen as a God of stop-gaps, one who is sought in times of need and use. Further, there is a heavy tendency to “privatize” God also, confining Him to the boundaries of religion or class. 3.      All these are nothing but tendencies of making God dead. Perhaps this is the re-rising of the negative philosophy of Nietzsche, “God is dead”. When people do not live and promote the life that is given by God, they deaden God. 4.      When God does not live within and amidst the humans, they deaden Him. When His kingdom of love, justice and peace do not reign among the humans, they make Him dead. 5.      It is in this context, that the declaration of Jesus that “God is not God of the dead, but of the living; because all live to Him” makes tremendous sense. Death is not our end or destiny. Life and that too, eternal life is our end and destiny. Physical death is only a closure to the earthly life. But it is an opening upon a new life, an everlasting life. 6.      This life in eternity is a life above and beyond the earthly life. This means that we are raised to a higher level where we do not operate merely on the basis of earthly ties or human attachments. We will also not be carried away by earthly pursuits or interests. We become fully spiritual and heavenly. In the words of Jesus, we “are equal to angels and are sons of God, being sons of the resurrection”. 7.      Therefore, to attain that life of eternity, we need to recommit ourselves to making God live in us and among us. We must be alive to God. We must foster a culture of life that reflects God, for all life belongs to Him. God must re-enter and live more intimately in human hearts, lives, societies and nations. 8.      For this, one essential condition is the realization and repentance over our sinfulness, like Antiochus in the first reading from 1 Maccabees. He reflects, realizes and repents over his wickedness against Israel and against God Himself. Imperative: The reality of death must constantly remind us that we must look beyond death. Our faith makes us focused on eternity; our hope must make us directed to heaven; and our charity must make us committed to earth (Reflection 2)   Focus: This earthly life is not an end by itself but resurrection and eternal life is our destiny. Therefore, let this life now be a worthy passage to the life then   1.      Jesus declares: “God is the God of living and not of the dead, for to Him everyone is alive”. Thereby, two fundamental truths are affirmed. God is God of eternity, and we too are destined for the same eternity. Our God is a living God; He is the God of life and He shares this same life, His own life with us. 2.      If this is so, then we will live with Him in eternity. This earthly human life is only temporary duration, a transit in preparation for that life without end. Therefore, death is not a permanent closure or cessation of life but is only a door that opens upon resurrection and risen life in heaven. 3.      But this destiny after death commits us to life before death to live it with a spirit of focus and direction, detachment and soaring high. Our life on earth should be in such a way qualitative that it qualifies us for life in heaven. 4.      Unfortunately, many lose sight of this fundamental nature of nurturing and orientation to life in eternity. Consequently, they tend to live a culture of death. They tend to be heavily conditioned and stuck with only the temporary and transient. They fail to value and appreciate life. They fail to realise that life is precious and sacred because it is a share of God’s own life. 5.      That is why often it is so much abused and destroyed. Further, the loss of the sense of eternity also makes people lose their sense of purpose and direction. They become excessively earth-bound. They do not raise themselves to what is above, what is high and lofty. Ironically, people who claim to be foresighted and far-sighted fail to see the horizons of eternity.   Direction: Let us not secularise too much heaven and eternal life. Let us not restrict the unbounded mercy and reign of God          

33RD SUNDAY OF THE YEAR A 23

19 NOVEMBER 2023, 33rd SUNDAY, Matthew 25. 14-30: Parable of Talents   Arrow: Gifts and talents – laid waste or put to use? Focus: What is important is not how much we receive but how much we give in return. God does not see how much we have but He sees what we do with what we have   1. The parable of talents is not a question of the difference of talents given. It is a difference but not discrimination. 2. One need not make an issue out of it justifying disparities and inequalities. The fact is we are born different. 3. Here, it may help us to think of two levels of talents: the secondary and the primary. The secondary level comprises various skills and competencies, like singing, dancing, art, drawing, intelligence, eloquence, socializing, organizing, etc. 4. And there may be variance in regard to this secondary level of talents. Thus, there is also a possibility for comparisons. But one should not be too caught up with this secondary level. Because, that will lead to unhealthy competitions, feelings of disparity and discrimination. 5. Subsequently, it can also lead to jealousies and arrogance. Rather, it is wise to focus on the primary level of talents, and no one is deprived of the primary level of talents. These are more fundamental and essential. They are namely the gift to love, to give, to be virtuous, to be benevolent to others. 6. Here, there is no question of discrimination. No one is given less than needed to become a fine human person with humane qualities. What is important is how each one searches out all the possibilities to put in the best and to develop himself, without negative and jealous comparison and competition. 7. Each one is accountable for what he has received and how he made the best use of his gifts. There is no use of receiving more but giving back little.   Direction: The real matter is not how many talents we have or how talented we are but how receptive and productive we are, how responsible and fruitful we are  

33rd SUNDAY OF THE YEAR A 23

33rd SUNDAY, 19 NOVEMBER 2023: PROVERBS 31. 10-13, 19-20, 30-31; 1 THES 5.1-6; MATTHEW 25.14-30 Focus: Effect is Quality! Indicative: The value of life is not in quantity but in quality. It means to be sober and productive 1. The Word of God once again reminds us of our vocation, destiny and mission. In his first letter to the Thessalonians in the second reading, Paul reminds us that we are citizens of the light and the day. We do not belong to night and darkness. We are not in darkness. Therefore, we must not sleep as others do but be always alert and sober. 2. In the first reading from Proverbs, we have the figure of a good wife: she is a woman of character; she is more precious than any jewel; her husband can completely trust her; she will be of great benefit to him. She brings him only good and not evil, all the days of her life. Like her, we too must be persons of character, of benefit to others. We must bring others only good and not evil, all the days of our life.  3. The same theme of being sober, diligent and productive is emphasised in the gospel through the parable of talents. The parable of talents is a call for abundant productivity and fruitfulness. The matter is not the number or the degree of the talents, but the use and growth of them. 4. Let one not bother needlessly about the issue of difference or discrimination in the number of the distributed talents. We are not here to analyse and argue over God’s ways. It is a fact that there is diversity and distinction, but these need not be taken as adversity and discrimination on the part of God. 5. The difference is not denial or deprivation. It is better to discover one’s own talents, value and appreciate them, work on them and enhance them. Let one not feel dispirited over what one does not have, or feel jealous about what others have, in useless comparison and competition. This can create a hurting sense of discrimination. 6. Further such a hurting sense of discrimination can arise when we are too much caught up with the “secondary level” of talents. These are more external and are rather skills and competencies that are acquired and developed. They are the talents like singing, dancing, music, painting, art, the ability to be eloquent, to be fluent, to manage, to organize, to be sociable, intelligence, knowledge, etc. 7. But we should rather focus on the “primary level” of talents and gifts, where there is no discrimination. They are given to all. They are the talents and gifts to love, to give, to be gentle, to comfort, to encourage, to appreciate, to be kind, etc. These are not to be laid waste but to be used extensively. The more we grow them, the more we will be blessed by God. 8. Besides, when one focuses only on the secondary talents, two possibilities are there: if one has many talents, one can easily become self-oriented, complacent and puffed up. Or, on the other hand, if one has only little, then one can become disappointed or jealous. Both sides are not good. This is what we see in case of many. 9. This is the biggest fault of the third servant. He laid waste the one talent that was given to him. He did not make use of it, like the other two. He did not bring out more benefit with it. He was just satisfied with the least minimum, that is, just giving back to the master what he had received from him. He failed thus in two essential aspects of a worthwhile life: productivity and beneficialness. 10. Very many times, many are like the last servant. They are indifferent and lethargic. They lack the vigour and enthusiasm of life. They do not discover their talents. They do not enhance them or deepen and strengthen them. They do not use them for the good of others. They become so irresponsible, unproductive and useless. Where are we? Imperative: Life is gifted, not to while away but to live it worthwhile. A life that is not responsible and hardworking, will fail to be productive and beneficial  

32 WEEK DAYS MASS REFLECTION 23

13 - 18 NOVEMBER 2023, HOLY MASS REFLECTIONS 13 NOVEMBER 2023: WIS 1. 1-7; LUKE 17. 1-6 Focus: Bad examples are plenty! Indicative: Bad example is detestable in the sight of God and is liable to God’s judgment 1.      One major defect of today’s society is the increase of bad examples and scandals. More and more people get accustomed and tuned to wrong and evil. The pity all the more is, they are least bothered. Many give more importance to their self-gain and pleasure rather than setting a good example. Many do not feel any social and moral obligation to walk a good life and help others to walk the same. 2.       This bad example is mainly failing - to trust in the Lord, to seek Him with sincerity of heart, and to love and live uprightness. It is the perversity of thinking. It is cultivating a deceitful soul. It is a body enslaved to sin. 3.        The attitude of many who set a bad example is: ‘This is my life and I want it to be happy and undisturbed’. Why should I bother to give a good example to others? It is their freedom and choice. Let them not be easily influenced by bad example.’ 4.       There is certainly some truth in their argument. But they cannot simply evade their culpability. In fact, the gravity of their wrong is so great that it invites severe punishment. The Lord pronounces ‘woe’ on them and attests: it would be better for him if a millstone were hung around his neck and he were cast into the sea. 5.       As the first reading from the book of Wisdom notes, “Wisdom is a kindly spirit and it will not free the scandalous from the guilt of their words or the approach of their unrighteousness”. Their bad example and misleading influence convict them. 6.       The cause of such a bad example is clearly the lack of wisdom. The response to those misled and who fall into sin is not to condemn them but to rebuke them, and forgive them generously if they repent. The strong power that works as resistant is deep faith. This will foster “a holy and disciplined spirit which will flee from deceit, from foolish thoughts and unrighteousness”.   Imperative: In a world that is increasingly steeped in unrighteous and deceitful living, there is so much scandal and negative influence. We need rock-like faith to stand firm and not fall into temptation. (Reflection 2) Thrust: Bad example is abominable! Indicative: No one has a right to give a bad example to others and it is punishable 1.      We can highlight three main points for our reflection. One is the duty to avoid bad example.  The second is the duty to give a good example. The third is the duty to do fraternal correction. First of all, the Lord is very serious and stern about setting a bad example and scandal. It is not a silly thing and cannot be taken lightly. It is grave and so incurs a grave punishment, even to the extent of throwing the culpable person with a millstone into the sea. 2.      It is so sad that day by day we are assaulted by scandals and bad examples. No sphere, no sector is an exception to this. What is all the more saddening is that those who cause them don't have even a bit of a prick of conscience.  They even feel great and happy about it and justify it as a way of the world. Such a situation is deplorable. 3.      In such a context, what should be the course of action? From the part of those who cause scandal, realisation, repentance, and change of life are required. They should be conscious of the gravity of their sin. They should realise that it cannot be justified as a mere individual weakness and fault. They should know that it has a pervasive effect and a wider negative influence. They should realise that it is against our very faith in God and our vocation as God’s children. It is also a failure in our fraternal duty not to mislead others but to set a good example. 4.      Then from the part of all, it is a threefold duty: to avoid any scandal, to give a good example, and to do fraternal correction. We must guard against any situation or instance of scandal. 5.      Then, our approach toward those who are scandalous should not be judgmental or condemnatory. Rather we should be compassionate and forgiving. We should not disgrace them or put them to public shame by slander. Our purpose is not to show others in the wrong and feel great above them. It is to arrest the scandal, transform them and win back our brethren. 6.      Such fraternity and a good example are possible only by faith. It is so powerful that even a little faith like the mustard seed can move even trees. That's why the apostles plead to increase faith.   Direction: True faith is a matter of faithfulness and a good example   14 NOVEMBER 2023: WIS 2.23 – 3.9; LUKE 17. 7-10 Thrust: No individual merit! Indicative: Our faith is God’s grace. All the blessings that we enjoy are God’s gratuitous benevolence. No one can claim rights! 1.      Seeking recognition and applause, desire to create impressions and making a show of one's goodness and greatness, boasting and blowing one's trumpet before others - all these are clearly the trademarks of today's society. This malaise has so much infected our world that a person's quality is rated on the basis of publicity. 2.      More importance is given to the tactics for marketing the product rather than the sincere efforts to ensure its quality and use of it. In such a context, doing good has become a rare commodity, and doing it without any ulterior motive has become a rare happening. 3.      But Jesus makes it crystal clear that doing good and serving is essential to our human nature and our Christian vocation. Service is not a favour but a binding duty. Good is to be done not at one's choice and convenience but as devoted dutifulness. 4.      Dutifulness is a master check for our faith and faithfulness. That is why Jesus declares, “When you have done all, say, ‘We are unworthy servants; we have only done what was our duty.’”This dutifulness is essentially a matter of bearing witness to our call as the children of God and the followers of Christ. 5.      Such a duty-bound, faithful, and witnessing life trains us to renounce ungodliness, lawlessness, and worldly passions. We are summoned to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives. We should be zealous models of good works. That is the most fitting way to put evil opponents to shame and defeat them.   Direction: Only the spirit of a humble servant and dutiful service can heal the widespread sickness of domination and manipulation    15 NOVEMBER 2023: WIS 6. 1-11; LUKE 17. 11-19   Focus: Gratitude is a sign of the rectitude of the heart! Indicative: All that we are, all that we have, and all that we do, everything is given either by God directly or through many others. This obligates us to be profoundly grateful.   1.      We live in a world where goodness is often taken for granted. Many receive so much good but they hardly bother to be grateful. They do not realize and appreciate the value of the good done to them. They fail to see the enormous amount of sacrifice those good acts involve. 2.       And some others are so indifferent and demanding and think that it is their right to receive. This is what we see in all fields, in religion, in families, in work circles, in educational centres, in religious communities, in administration circles, et cetera. 3.       In the gospel, Jesus too faces a similar experience of ingratitude. He heals ten lepers. But only one of them, that too a Samaritan returns to Jesus to thank him. The other nine are overjoyed at the fact of healing. In the meantime, they forget the healer. 4.       The same thing happens in our lives as well. Day in and day out, we receive numberless blessings and favours from God. But conveniently we lose sight of them. We take them for granted. At times, we are so indifferent that we just do not value and appreciate the goodness of the people and the good done to us. 5.       We are so engrossed in the good that we receive and enjoy and we ignore the givers and doers of those good things. We do not realize the simple fact that others are not bound to help us. But, still many help us not out of obligation but out of concern. 6.       It is not because we have a right for good but only because they are upright. It is not because we deserve those favours but mainly because we need and the givers know that we are in need. 7.       True gratitude does not finish with mere thanks but leads to a sincere responsibility. All those who receive so much are bound to give as well, just as they have received abundantly. Therefore, a sense and act of gratitude that does not lead to a sense of responsibility, is defective and deficient gratitude. Those who receive must also learn to give, and giving thanks is the first minimum and doing good in return is the flowering of receiving.   Imperative: Let us foster a culture of gratitude because it can rekindle within us a true depth of humility which leads us to be people of giving. As we receive, so too we give!   (Reflection 2)    Focus: Gratitude is not a mere matter of receiving and giving a profuse vote of thanks but fosters a culture of deep humility, prompt recognition of the goodness of others, and responsibility toward what is received   1.      We are living in a world where the spirit of gratitude is either on the decrease or is very shallow. Often it is just momentary. Today once again Jesus reminds us that gratitude is a fundamental attitude of life. One should not take for granted the good done. 2.      This is what the nine lepers did. Jesus heals ten lepers but only one, that too a Samaritan returns to thank Jesus. How easily people can forget the immense good done! In healing the lepers, Jesus not only gives them physical health but much more than that: he restores their lost human dignity. He restores them to their lost family bonding. 3.      Therefore, gratitude is a responsibility and obligation. It is not mere words but a culture of heart. In fact, true gratitude is a matter of depth, humility, and sensitivity. It means that one deeply acknowledges his essential condition of givenness, inadequacy and dependence. 4.      It demands that one recognize the value of goodness and help. It calls to nurture genuine respect and appreciation for the act of kindness. Only thus, one can be authentic and deep in his gratitude. Therefore, an attitude of arrogance and undue autonomy, insensitivity, and indifference is contrary to real gratitude. 5.      Real gratitude should increase our loyalty towards the people who do that good and also responsibility and commitment towards the good done. This implies a responsible use of it and a commitment to do the same kind of good to the person concerned or to anyone. Because one who receives the giving from someone should also learn to give. 6.      Thus, true gratitude can never be dissociated from genuine responsibility. To be grateful is to be responsible. We have received an immense grace of salvation. We who were once slaves to sin are made free. We who were foolish, disobedient and misled, are now made wise, obedient, and well-guided. We who lived in malice and hate, are now made benevolent and loving. 7.      Should we not be infinitely grateful for it? And we show this gratitude, not by mere holy desires and great words, but much more, by a changed life. We receive grace gratefully, but we live that grace responsibly.   Direction: Let gratitude be a beautiful ornament that adds splendour to our spirit of humility and sensitivity. The more we receive, the more we grow humble and kind toward others   16 NOVEMBER 2023: WIS 7.22 – 8.1; LUKE 17. 20-25   Focus: Kingdom is not a show or glow! Indicative: Often people are easily carried away by external displays and shows. Appearances arrest and block their vision and they fail to see the real and the interior   1.      People of Jesus’ time were expecting God’s kingdom to come in all pomp and glory. They expected an irresistible intervention of God that would overthrow the Roman empire and re-establish the Judaic reign as in the OT. That is why they would ask Jesus when would it come. But Jesus quite candidly dispels their wrong notions. 2.       The kingdom of God is not a place with fixed boundaries and demarcations. It is a situation, an ambience where God reigns. It is not material or social or political. It is essentially spiritual. It is profoundly interior. That is why, Jesus declares, “The Kingdom of God is within you, amidst you”. 3.       In the light of the first reading from Wisdom, the kingdom of God is exactly where wisdom reigns in its full splendour. All the features of wisdom perfectly match with God’s kingdom. God’s kingdom is when and where the power of God pervades, when and where the glory of the Almighty purely emanates. 4.       It is when and where there is a reflection of eternal light, when and where there is a spotless mirror of the working of God and an image of his goodness. The Kingdom of God is there when evil does not prevail against God and good. 5.       We will belong to God’s kingdom to the extent we put on wisdom, clothing ourselves with her lofty qualities like holy, clear, unpolluted, invulnerable, loving the good, keen, irresistible, beneficent, humane, steadfast, free from anxiety, et cetera. We will experience God’s reign within and amidst us when we allow wisdom to penetrate us and make us friends of God.   Imperative: It is foolish to hear eagerly false prophets and adhere to their false teachings about God’s kingdom. They are for sure false because they tie God’s kingdom to mere places and times. Little do they realize that God’s kingdom is reigning within and amidst us!   (Reflection 2) Thrust: Kingdom is within! Indicative: God’s kingdom is not to be equated with a religious domain or domination. God’s kingdom is not the suppression and intimidation of others in the name of religiosity and pure religion 1.      The Pharisees ask Jesus ‘when’ the kingdom of God will come. But interestingly Jesus’ answer concerns ‘where’ the kingdom of God is. But this is not unreasonable because, in the case of the kingdom of God, the ‘when’ (time factor) and the ‘where’ (space factor) merge. The kingdom of God comes when and where God reigns. 2.      Accordingly, God’s kingdom is there in the midst of us when God’s Spirit reigns within us, in our hearts. It is said that God is so clever that He hides Himself inside the human heart. For, He is very sure that often many seek Him everywhere else and in everything else except in their own hearts, in the caves of their being. 3.      The kingdom of God in the first place is inside reality, a matter of the heart. Unless the heart changes, the kingdom does not come and reign. This is evident in the often-repeated caution of Jesus: ‘Unless you repent and change, you shall not enter the kingdom of God.’ It is actually not so much we entering into a territory of the kingdom. Rather, it is the kingdom that enters into our hearts. 4.      It is foolish that people search and fight to establish God’s kingdom by imposing particular religions or traditions. Little do they realise that God’s kingdom is not to be equated with a religion or a place or a culture. It is a way of life. It is a culture of heart. It is the reign of godliness. 5.      This is the spirit of the kingdom that reigns in the heart and life of Paul. He not only worked for the spread of the kingdom through his preaching and animation. But also he allowed God’s kingdom to reign within him. That is why he could regard even Onesimus, a mere slave, and one who was unfaithful as his own brother and son in faith. He would humble himself and plead with Philemon on his behalf. Imperative: The kingdom of God is really there when “our goodness is not by compulsion but of our own accord when we refresh each other’s heart in Christ” 17 NOVEMBER 2023: WIS 13. 1-9; LUKE 17. 26-37   Focus: Life that transcends! Indicative: Quality of life depends on the propriety of our focus and orientation. If we are rightly focused and oriented, life also becomes qualitative   1.      As our perspectives are, so will be our direction of life, our interests, pursuits and accomplishments. When our perspectives are short-sighted and earth-bound, what we strive for and accomplish will also be short-sighted and earth-bound. This is the problem with many today. 2.       They are so much caught up with the things of this world. Their interests and pursuits revolve around mundane matters like money, possessions, power, position, name, popularity, temporary pleasures, instant gratifications, et cetera. 3.       In simple terms, the meaning and direction of life are reduced to be earth-bound. They do not rise beyond and above the world and the earthly life. This is the same problem that happened in the OT in the time of Noah and Lot. People were immersed in worldly preoccupations and peripheral affairs. 4.       They lost sight of the spiritual and higher concerns. They busied themselves with eating, drinking, making merry, pursuing mundane interests and seeking worldly gains. They were totally unprepared for the flood or the fire respectively. 5.       This is what the author of Wisdom observes and implicates in the first reading as the grave fault of the worldly people. They are intelligent but are deliberately ignorant, arrogant and deviant. Because they ignore the presence and the power of God that is so evident in His created nature. 6.       They are arrogant depending on their own human capacities or worldly resources. They are totally deviated because they go astray “As they live among his works they keep searching, and they trust in what they see, because the things that are seen are beautiful”. 7.       This is what Jesus cautions about in the gospel. He reminds us about the suddenness and unexpectedness of the coming of the Lord. Therefore, let us not be engrossed in merely worldly matters, temporary and temporal interests. Let us raise ourselves to the higher realm, what is more lasting and more noble.   Imperative: Let these words of Jesus constantly ring within us: “Whoever seeks to gain his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life (for my sake) will preserve it   (Reflection 2) Thrust: Be ready! Indicative: Procrastination and unpreparedness are very prevalent. Many take for granted even the essentials. And for sure they will be caught unawares and shocked with unfavourable judgment   1.      As we are running toward the closure of the ordinary time in the liturgical year, and soon will step into the holy Advent, the Liturgy of the Word draws our attention to the end times. The Word impresses upon us the sudden, unexpected nature of such end times. The choice is ours: whether to be alert, attentive, prompt and prepared or to be confronted and surprised unprepared. 2.      The people in the time of Noah and Lot were totally immersed in worldly affairs and pleasures. They were not mindful and prepared for the impending flood and fire respectively. So all of them perished. Similarly, many people of our times are so much entangled with many needless and worthless pursuits. 3.      They do not mind the reminders and cautions given by God in different ways. They wrongly think that they are ‘preserving’ and ‘saving’ their life. This is seen in their mad craving, and accumulation concerning money, possessions, power, position, fame, and sensual gratifications and pleasures. The guiding principles are deception and manipulation. The goal is self-gain and self-glory. 4.      The only remedy is a complete change of perspective and direction. It is to “walk in the truth” and not falsity and conceit. It is to live a life of authenticity and integrity. It is to “walk in love.” To walk in love is to “walk according to God’s commandments,” and to “abide in the teaching of Christ.” Imperative: All those who do not walk in the truth, in love, and in the way of commandments are deceivers and antichrists. Their end is clear and severe, and that is destruction. 18 NOVEMBER 2023: WIS 18. 14-16; 19. 6-9; LUKE 18. 1-8   Focus: Faith is not a speed gain! Indicative: Patience and perseverance are the keys to success and the hallmarks of any successful person. Wavering and impatience will never do any good in any pursuit   1.      We are living in a fast-track world. It seeks instant results and quick gains. Speed has become one main determinant of the mentality of today’s world. That is why, it is said that those who do not run the race fast, will not stand in the race. 2.       Delay often causes annoyance and impatience. The same thing happens in our prayer life as well. Many pray and do many spiritual activities. But they expect immediate answers and favours from God. 3.       There is nothing wrong with making supplications to God. There is also nothing wrong with expecting God to receive our requests and grant favours. But the real problem is what happens when we are not granted what we ask for. What happens when things do not happen when we expect them to happen? 4.       What happens when I ask for good health, a good job, a good education, a good match, good business, good prospects, success, good understanding, and good changes in others in families or communities, but they do not happen? 5.       What happens when I continue to struggle with my sickness, with my failures, or with negative pressures? How long to wait? Why does God not respond and grant favours as and when I request him so trustingly? 6.       In such times, the usual and immediate tendency is to be discouraged, to be shaken in our faith, and to give up our praying. It is then that the poor widow in the gospel stands before us as a great ignition to persevere till the end. 7.       She approaches an obstinate and unjust judge for justice. He is in no mood to render justice to her. He continued to refuse her. But as she persisted, he had to yield to her request. At least to get rid of her botheration, he renders her justice. Perseverance pays!   Imperative: Perseverance in prayer does not mean that we go on pestering God and make him weary. It means that we should not expect quick favours from God. Rather we must learn to wait!   (Reflection 2) Thrust: Pray lest you become prey! Indicative: We can never emphasise enough the value and need of prayer in our life. It is only prayer that makes us stand erect and withstand all possible assaults   1.      Lack of patience and perseverance is one great defect and drawback of the present society. Many start well and big with great enthusiasm. But as time passes and when difficulties and adversities come on their way, they easily get discouraged and give up. The fact is not the closure of the road but the closure of their heart to see the road or seek a new one. 2.      People seek quick results and are easily drawn to them. Not many have the patience to wait for the fruits. That is why we see people tampering with the natural process of growth and maturing, by injecting medicines and chemicals into chicks, animals, vegetables, fruits, and even humans. This becomes hazardous. 3.      The same mentality is reflected in many youngsters who want to get to the top, who want to achieve many things within no time. Having no patience to wait and work hard, they resort to shortcuts and easy means. This leads to a lack of ethics. What is important is not how a person gets something but that he gets it in whichever way possible. 4.      The same mentality of impatience and lack of perseverance has crept into the religious sphere as well. People pray and they want immediate results. They make petitions and intercessions and they want God’s favours immediately at their doorsteps. 5.      Many mistake this kind of expectation as a deep trust in things to happen. They may claim, “I prayed with deep faith and God immediately heard my prayer.” Subsequently, they feel that their faith is great and efficacious. On the other hand, when things do not happen as prayed for or do not happen when expected, there is disappointment and the possibility of giving up. 6.      It is in this context, Jesus teaches us perseverance in our prayer. He sets before us a simple practical example of a widow who persists in pleading with an unjust judge for justice till she gets justice. She does not lose her heart and give up her effort. She goes on approaching the judge to the extent of pestering him. 7.      Jesus’ assurance that God will not delay long and will give justice speedily does not mean that things happen as soon as we pray. It also will not mean that all things will happen according to our prayer. It only means that God listens to our prayers, understands our needs, and grants them when and how needed.   Imperative: True prayer is not pressuring God to do things as and when we want but surrendering to God to do things as and when He wants. Why we leave everything to Him is because He knows and can do the best    

CHILDREN'S DAY SPEECH

"Children are the world's most valuable resource and its best hope for the future." - John F. Kennedy "Good morning esteemed teachers, and our dear beloved students, Today, we celebrate the spirit of innocence, the joy of laughter, and the promise of a brighter future as we commemorate Children's Day. Our children, you, are the beating heart of our school and the hope of our world. Your laughter fills our halls, your curiosity fuels our lessons, and your dreams inspire our tomorrow. On this special day, let us remember the importance of nurturing and cherishing our children. Let us pledge to create an environment that fosters their growth, nurtures their talents, and respects their individuality. Every child is a unique story waiting to unfold, and it's our duty to provide them with the support and guidance they need to flourish. Dear students, your dreams are the compass guiding us towards a better world. So, embrace your curiosity, cherish your wonder, and never let go of your limitless imagination. Each one of you holds the potential to make a difference, to bring about positive change, and to shape the future. As we celebrate Children's Day, let us reaffirm our commitment to providing you with the best opportunities, the safest spaces, and the most supportive environment. May your laughter continue to echo through our halls, may your dreams soar high, and may your spirits remain forever young. Happy Children's Day!" God bless you Thank you. sr. Elizabeth cfmss

32nd SUNDAY OF THE YEAR A 23

32nd SUNDAY, 12 NOVEMBER  2023, WISDOM 6. 12-16; 1 THES 4. 13-18; MATTHEW 25. 1-13: Ten virgins Focus: Seek wisdom and be wise! Indicative: We are called to be wise and the loss of wisdom is a sure path for destruction and loss of eternal celebration 1. The Word of God invites us to seek Wisdom, and to be wise and to live wisely, because it is wisdom that determines the quality of one's life and the fate of one's destiny.  This is what comes straight and clear in the gospel through the parable of the ten virgins. 2. The parable of the ten virgins, five wise and five others foolish, is not a matter of worldly intelligence. It is a matter of wisdom of God, to be prepared in full measures with not only the lamps but also oil; to wait on the Lord always and at every moment; to be alert to His voice and coming; to walk in his company, and to celebrate the feast of grace with him. 3. On the contrary, the foolishness of the unwise virgins is: they were too sure of their timing of the Lord’s arrival; they could not see beyond their expectation, and failed to anticipate the possibility of a delay. Consequently, they fail to procure extra oil for the extended time of waiting. 4. Their lack of wisdom shows itself in at least 3 aspects: being conditioned by their own expectations; being satisfied with the minimum; and not being prepared. Consequently,  they miss the bridegroom and the banquet as well. 5.  In our life too,, like the five unwise virgins, we too miss the Lord and miss the joy of his presence and the joy of celebrating life with him. It is because we lack wisdom. Many times, we are too caught up and conditioned by our own expectations both in regard to God and others as well. 6.We expect God to come the way we like, when we like and do what we like. We expect others to do according to our likes and preferences, our considerations and calculations. 7. Often,  like the five foolish virgins,  we too are satisfied with just the minimum. They were satisfied to carry the oil just the bare minimum, what is enough till just the right expected time of the bridegroom' s arrival. They did not want to carry a little more, an extra oil beyond the expected and enough for the present. Many are accustomed to just the duty and nothing more. 8. Thus, they are totally unprepared. They run here and there in haste and tension in the last minutes. Their lamps are dwindling and run the danger of getting extinguished. They realise that lamp without oil will be no good. Without the oil, the lamp cannot keep burning. 9. We need to be wise to be ever prompt and ready to meet the Lord. What counts the most is not our expectations or calculations or likes, but what pleases God. Lamp of faith and a minimum oil of casual practice, will not suffice. We need extra oil of fervour, of holiness and purity. In our Christian living, there is no room for tepidity and impurity. Direction: “To stay awake" alone is not enough, because many do so, but to stay awake for the Lord, in holiness, is what matters.