Saturday 31 August 2013

Twenty-second Sunday in Ordinary Time: HUMILITY

Reading 1  

My child, conduct your affairs with humility,

and you will be loved more than a giver of gifts.

Humble yourself the more, the greater you are,
and you will find favor with God.
What is too sublime for you, seek not,
into things beyond your strength search not.
The mind of a sage appreciates proverbs,
and an attentive ear is the joy of the wise.
Water quenches a flaming fire,
and alms atone for sins.
Responsorial Psalm

R. (cf. 11b) God, in your goodness, you have made a home for the poor.

The just rejoice and exult before God;

they are glad and rejoice.
Sing to God, chant praise to his name;
whose name is the LORD.

R. God, in your goodness, you have made a home for the poor.
The father of orphans and the defender of widows
is God in his holy dwelling.
God gives a home to the forsaken;
he leads forth prisoners to prosperity.

R. God, in your goodness, you have made a home for the poor.
A bountiful rain you showered down, O God, upon your inheritance;
you restored the land when it languished;
your flock settled in it;
in your goodness, O God, you provided it for the needy.
R. God, in your goodness, you have made a home for the poor.

Brothers and sisters:

You have not approached that which could be touched

and a blazing fire and gloomy darkness
and storm and a trumpet blast
and a voice speaking words such that those who heard
begged that no message be further addressed to them.
No, you have approached Mount Zion
and the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem,
and countless angels in festal gathering,
and the assembly of the firstborn enrolled in heaven,
and God the judge of all,
and the spirits of the just made perfect,
and Jesus, the mediator of a new covenant,
and the sprinkled blood that speaks more eloquently than that of Abel.
Gospel

On a sabbath Jesus went to dine

at the home of one of the leading Pharisees,

and the people there were observing him carefully.
He told a parable to those who had been invited,
noticing how they were choosing the places of honor at the table.
“When you are invited by someone to a wedding banquet,
do not recline at table in the place of honor. 
A more distinguished guest than you may have been invited by him,
and the host who invited both of you may approach you and say,
‘Give your place to this man,’
and then you would proceed with embarrassment
to take the lowest place. 
Rather, when you are invited,
go and take the lowest place
so that when the host comes to you he may say,
‘My friend, move up to a higher position.’
Then you will enjoy the esteem of your companions at the table. 
For every one who exalts himself will be humbled,
but the one who humbles himself will be exalted.” 
Then he said to the host who invited him,
“When you hold a lunch or a dinner,
do not invite your friends or your brothers
or your relatives or your wealthy neighbors,
in case they may invite you back and you have repayment.
Rather, when you hold a banquet,
invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind;
blessed indeed will you be because of their inability to repay you.
For you will be repaid at the resurrection of the righteous.”

Theme for reflection:  Humility

Humility is the key and strongest theme in the readings of today.

Who is a humble man?

A term that is so very difficult to define, even by the dictionaries of the world.

Shall we  then say that he is the one who is aware of his real worth, even if the whole world were to applaud him or eulogize him?

That definition of mine I believe is true and yet disputable and the key dispute is this: How do we know our real self worth, will we not be deceptively believing what we should not believe?

Yet it cannot make the definition wrong.  Humans may come to a certain level of understanding their self-worth if they are true to themselves but never the complete awareness if they are on their own.

Our self worth can be, to a large extent, be understood in the light of the mirror of grace which God provides in his Son Jesus and in his presence.

If anyone has achieved something in life and has a reason to pride then they have only to look at Jesus and his achievements, especially reflecting on the cross in totality; there was nothing impossible with him and yet what was needed of him he did. 

Hence the cross of Jesus is the greatest medicine for human pride and to grow in the ultimate humility, even a child like humility which makes one dependent on God, just as Jesus did, even unto the cross.

If the greatest ever virtue is humility, then all of mankind, if only they sought this one virtue in and through the cross of Jesus then the world would have been a different place to live in.

This virtue doesn't take away from your talent, the gifts that God has given each one but what it does is this; allow each one to use his gifts in true humility of heart and mind.

This humility takes further root in us when we in this reflection on the cross makes one realize one’s sinfulness and unworthiness before a God who is all powerful, almighty and holy and we are mere creatures whom he loves and accepts in spite of our sinfulness- sinfulness that crucified the innocent and sinless one. 

In the gospel instruction on humility which Jesus gives, we could have humble people according to the ways of the world, because Jesus has instructed us thus in the parable on how to conduct ourselves:

Thus we have humble practitioners in the church who may take the last seat in the church and feel justified about it in the light of the parable.

We could have self-effacing individuals who may not play any roles of significant value in the church.

We could have people who may not want to use their talents and gifts to further his kingdom or be a witness or proclaim his gospel.

But when they have to go for the spiritual banquet, i.e. into God’s presence in prayer, they may be in the forefront, with their mind distracted and busy planning the many moves rather than allowing God to invite them closer to his heart and reveal plans for them. . 

It is only our humility before the all powerful God that will keep us humble even among his creatures.

Therefore let the preacher strongly exhort, after making attempts to practice it themselves; “Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that in due time he may exalt you.”  1 Peter 5:6 (Jas. 4:10)

"For every one who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted." Luke 14:11

  •  Some additional scripture verses for reflection and use:
"Thus says the Lord, the God of the Hebrews, 'How long will you refuse to humble yourself before me? Ex 10:3
    
If you return to the Almighty and humble yourself, if you remove unrighteousness far from your tents….. then you will delight yourself in the Almighty, and lift up your face to God. You will make your prayer to him, and he will hear you; and you will pay your vows. You will decide on a matter, and it will be established for you, and light will shine on your ways.  For God abases the proud, but he saves the lowly. Job 22:23, 26-29


Friday 30 August 2013

Wealth

Today’s Gospel Text:  "For it will be as when a man going on a journey called his servants and entrusted to them his property; 15 to one he gave five talents, to another two, to another one, to each according to his ability. Then he went away. 16 He who had received the five talents went at once and traded with them; and he made five talents more. 17 So also, he who had the two talents made two talents more. 18 But he who had received the one talent went and dug in the ground and hid his master's money. 19 Now after a long time the master of those servants came and settled accounts with them. 20 And he who had received the five talents came forward, bringing five talents more, saying, 'Master, you delivered to me five talents; here I have made five talents more.' 21 His master said to him, 'Well done, good and faithful servant; you have been faithful over a little, I will set you over much; enter into the joy of your master.' 22 And he also who had the two talents came forward, saying, 'Master, you delivered to me two talents; here I have made two talents more.' 23 His master said to him, 'Well done, good and faithful servant; you have been faithful over a little, I will set you over much; enter into the joy of your master.' 24 He also who had received the one talent came forward, saying, 'Master, I knew you to be a hard man, reaping where you did not sow, and gathering where you did not winnow; 25 so I was afraid, and I went and hid your talent in the ground. Here you have what is yours.' 26 But his master answered him, 'You wicked and slothful servant! You knew that I reap where I have not sowed, and gather where I have not winnowed? 27 Then you ought to have invested my money with the bankers, and at my coming I should have received what was my own with interest. 28 So take the talent from him, and give it to him who has the ten talents. 29 For to every one who has will more be given, and he will have abundance; but from him who has not, even what he has will be taken away. 30 And cast the worthless servant into the outer darkness; there men will weep and gnash their teeth.' Matt 25:14-30

Reflection: “It is my hard earned money” This is normally the term often heard and in various ways it is expressed, all meaning the same.

Surely, there are some who work hard for their bread and butter and to keep enough for a better future for themselves and for their children’s or for their luxury.

In the world there will always be the haves and the have not’s and among these have-nots there may be some who may have made a choice to deprive themselves either miserly or by their generosity.

Does a man have a right to indiscriminately enjoy the fruit of his hard labor? It is a question which has often found critics and the sincerely rich have found unwanted enemies.

Why should they who have much have a right to live in the luxuries of life and in many a case the much may  have been only inherited wealth? 

Indeed they have labored hard and struggled for it, so as to enjoy the fruit thereof but does it mean that the poor never labor hard and struggle their every bit?

The gospel passage reminds us that God is the giver of all talents and it is he who gives us the ability to make wealth. (cfr. Duet. 8:18)

Though in the gospel passage it especially means the spiritual dimension of the talent which God is bestowing on his servants, to be worked on and bring about an increase yet, this also holds true for all that we possess.

What is it that we have or posses that has not come from the creator above? If we understand the truth herein then it would also be a step towards a humility that pleases God. 

For all that we have, including our body, mind and soul comes from God and so too the ability to make wealth.

Therefore, Man humble yourself before the almighty God and "Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's." Mark 12:17

Remember, your property and talent comes from God and belongs to him and your hard work or labor should be aimed at pleasing him rather than yourselves; for this is the way to perfection.

Prayer: Lord, help me to realize that, all that I posses and have, including the spiritual gifts, comes from you and is to be used for your glory alone.

DD = Dedicated Discipleship:  Come grow in the Lord with us

Thursday 29 August 2013

Educate

Today’s Gospel Text:"Then the kingdom of heaven shall be compared to ten maidens who took their lamps and went to meet the bridegroom. 2 Five of them were foolish, and five were wise. 3 For when the foolish took their lamps, they took no oil with them; 4 but the wise took flasks of oil with their lamps. 5 As the bridegroom was delayed, they all slumbered and slept. 6 But at midnight there was a cry, 'Behold, the bridegroom! Come out to meet him.' 7 Then all those maidens rose and trimmed their lamps. 8 And the foolish said to the wise, 'Give us some of your oil, for our lamps are going out.' 9 But the wise replied, 'Perhaps there will not be enough for us and for you; go rather to the dealers and buy for yourselves.' 10 And while they went to buy, the bridegroom came, and those who were ready went in with him to the marriage feast; and the door was shut. 11 Afterward the other maidens came also, saying, 'Lord, lord, open to us.' 12 But he replied, 'Truly, I say to you, I do not know you.' 13 Watch therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour. Matt 25:1-13

Reflection: Modern Education has done great wonders; it has brought in development and given ordinary people access to knowledge.

A nation’s wealth is often counted by way of its educated class; for wealth is not just a produce from or of natural resources but also includes human resources of which intellectual property and contribution thereof is an important factor.

Having seen the wonders thereof, every nation makes it point to invest in education and so too society and communities lay great emphasis on education.

Parent will go through great lengths to educate their children in every possible way, making great sacrifice by way of time, wealth and sleep.

Like every good invention and investments which has a flip side so too education; the state of the world with its many problems and irreversible damage done also suggests the evil contribution of education.

No one complains because we rarely see the negative side and see only the positive side and the great contribution of education in terms of wealth generation and rarely human development, with no sound criteria to adjudge it. 

Does modern education really develop character and if yes, is it developed in freedom or is it developed in fear and societal conditioning?

What do we compare modern education? Is it not like an artificial hormonal growth: visibly appeals to the eye and growth is sure but is it real quality?

Such an emphasis on education could even be practiced in the religious places and seminaries of today.

The parable reveals to us that that five of the virgins were foolish because they carried no oil in their lamps; the oil of the Holy Spirit that comes through learning at the feet of the master and receiving from his Holy Spirit.

How many of our modern day parents and those among Christians, who have a role in education, teach the children on the importance of keeping their lamps always filled with the oil of the Holy Spirit.

Prayer:  Give me the oil O Lord that my lamp may ever be burning brightly unto eternity and thus prove myself wise in your eyes. 

DD = Dedicated Discipleship:  Come grow in the Lord with us

Wednesday 28 August 2013

Righteous Man

Today’s Gospel Text: For Herod had sent and seized John, and bound him in prison for the sake of Hero'di-as, his brother Philip's wife; because he had married her. 18 For John said to Herod, "It is not lawful for you to have your brother's wife." 19 And Hero'di-as had a grudge against him, and wanted to kill him. But she could not, 20 for Herod feared John, knowing that he was a righteous and holy man, and kept him safe. When he heard him, he was much perplexed; and yet he heard him gladly. 21 But an opportunity came when Herod on his birthday gave a banquet for his courtiers and officers and the leading men of Galilee. 22 For when Hero'di-as' daughter came in and danced, she pleased Herod and his guests; and the king said to the girl, "Ask me for whatever you wish, and I will grant it." 23 And he vowed to her, "Whatever you ask me, I will give you, even half of my kingdom." 24 And she went out, and said to her mother, "What shall I ask?" And she said, "The head of John the baptizer." 25 And she came in immediately with haste to the king, and asked, saying, "I want you to give me at once the head of John the Baptist on a platter." 26 And the king was exceedingly sorry; but because of his oaths and his guests he did not want to break his word to her. 27 And immediately the king sent a soldier of the guard and gave orders to bring his head. He went and beheaded him in the prison, 28 and brought his head on a platter, and gave it to the girl; and the girl gave it to her mother. 29 When his disciples heard of it, they came and took his body, and laid it in a tomb. Mark 6:17-29

Reflection: How far can people go into moral degradation, especially those in power?

Here in Herod we have one such example. 

Though historically, a lot may be said about Herod and his immoral ways but the string of one immoral action of his leading to another is clearly evident here and something for each one of us to be cautious about.
  • He in the first place takes his brother Philips wife as his own wife and thus faces the rebuke of John the Baptist.
  • Then when Herodias desires that John be thrown into prison, he willing does what she has to command him. Thus proves a greater obedience to the vengeful woman.
  • Then finally an opportunity arises and she demands the head of John the Baptist, Herod willingly submits to such an act. Thus one act leading him further into another and finally into the pit of decadence.
If he in the first place would have listened to John whom he knew was a righteous and holy man and whom he also held in great respect, then he would not have landed in such trouble.

In other words our respect for God and for a righteous and holy man may not necessarily overflow into listening to them and their wise advice for us.


This problem of disobedience to a righteous and holy man, despite their respect for them, can occur especially in people who wield power. 

It is so because these who are in power, though may appear humble to the world and can pretend to be so to the world with their deception, end up persecuting the righteous and holy ones because power has gone to their head.  

There is no one around them to even correct them because they surround themselves with ‘yes men’ who still hungrier than them for power, dance according to their every whims and fancies.

On the other hand when those outside correct them then they are filled with rage towards the holy ones of God.

Prayer: Lord, strengthen the righteous man who calls on your name and who seeks not his own glory but yours.

DD = Dedicated Discipleship:  Come grow in the Lord with us

Tuesday 27 August 2013

What a Tragedy

Today’s Gospel Text:  "Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for you are like whitewashed tombs, which outwardly appear beautiful, but within they are full of dead men's bones and all uncleanness. 28 So you also outwardly appear righteous to men, but within you are full of hypocrisy and iniquity.
29 "Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for you build the tombs of the prophets and adorn the monuments of the righteous, 30 saying, 'If we had lived in the days of our fathers, we would not have taken part with them in shedding the blood of the prophets.' 31 Thus you witness against yourselves, that you are sons of those who murdered the prophets. 32 Fill up, then, the measure of your fathers. Matt 23:27-32

Reflection: What a tragedy! How shall we look at these scribes and the Pharisees, in their pitiable state, as they stand exposed by a one man army; Jesus Christ the righteous one?

What was the sin of the scribes and the Pharisees that they had to face such an onslaught from Jesus?

Was it a curse that Jesus utters against them when he proclaims these woes or shall we look at them as opportunities, maybe, it could be a last one for them, lest they die in this misery of blindness?

Such blind men have no room in the kingdom, because it belongs to the restored and the healthy and Jesus came to set these oppressed free in order that they may enter his kingdom.

On the other hand, the action of the scribes and the Pharisees which Jesus was attacking was the one in which they build the tombs of the prophets which their fathers had murdered.

What is more they apparently seemed truly repentant when they would say: “'If we had lived in the days of our fathers, we would not have taken part with them in shedding the blood of the prophets.' (vs. 30)

Jesus exposes them in their statement; by making such a noble statement they were actually being a witness to a grave fact that their forefathers were murderers and thus they were sons of murderers.

It seemed like a noble intention on their part to protect the prophet in their day, as if they had learnt from the folly of their fathers.

If that was so; then anyone’s noble desire would remain a noble desire to the end, that too perfectly so, then surely they would not face the wrath of God.

But that is not so, even in our day there are the countless who begin well and carry such a desire in their hearts, of serving God, of protecting his prophets, and bringing glory to his name with a noble desire. 

Some have even achieved great heights of power and position and yet many ultimately end up like these scribes and Pharisees, as murderers who go on to crucify the Lord; if not in deeds then in at least words

Prayer:  Lord, purify those noble intentions and may your spirit constantly make us alive to walk in your ways.

DD = Dedicated Discipleship:  Come grow in the Lord with us