Year-End - A Meditation on Time:

Year-End - A Meditation on Time:
End of an Year –
Today is the time to thank God for time given,
to hold a time for review.
There was certainly some moments of difficulties this year ...
and all of them we bring to God.

What events have shaped it?
What have we achieved? What has failed?
What changes have there been?
Where are we today?

A year ... it's not just a few days...
It's part of our personal life.
What moved us this year?
(Silent)

Last year, many things happened…
some of them were spectacular, some others not so.
What affected me particularly?
(Silence ...)


As a devout Christian, the past time of the year was a gift from God to deepen my faith.
Whether I had a special experience of faith?

(Silence)



THANKS:

In Ephesians we read, “Speaking to yourselves in psalms, and hymns, and spiritual canticles, singing and making melody in your hearts to the Lord, Giving thanks always for all things, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, to God and the Father:” (Eph 5:19-20)
We have thousands of reasons to thank God ...

I thank God,
... Because You personally love and protect me.
... Because of You I am alive.
... Because I always find people who like me.
... Because (despite some questions) I can believe in You.
... Because even in pain and disease, You opens a chance, to love you deeper.

Yes, my God, I have thousands of reasons to thank you ...
In words and in deeds ... With my life....
Because you are my life giving breath...

Prayer:
Lord of seconds, minutes, hours and years.
You have given me so much time.

I beg you not to give me more time.
But I ask you a lot of patience.
I ask you, that I may find time – for You and me, for the good of my brothers and sisters.

I ask you to care me that I'm not wasting my time.
Lord of our time, bless me this day!
Convert my time into a healing one. Amen!

-

Fr Thomas Kalathil

Blessed Christmas!

I Wish all my Readers a blessed Christmas!

Holy Family - Sermon – Year A

Holy Family - Sermon – Year A

Today we celebrate the Feast of the Holy Family.
Actually, two words that many people today less concerned about.
“Holy”, “family” ... both of them are losing day to day their role in our society. So is the trend.
Both are "old-fashioned" to many.

In this context, it may be good to think about them little bit, as you who are gathered here, respect them much.

We know ... Some are born rich. Others are rich by their efforts. There are still some who are wasting their possessions and become poor

It is almost the same concerning the Holiness.
“We are all called to Holiness”: So writes the Apostle Paul.
We know no human is born holy. (Except Mary, John the Baptist and Jesus) But we can achieve it. As the family of Jesus did…
We entitle the family of Jesus, the Holy Family.
They were specially chosen by God.

To obtain such a status they had suffered so much.
Their life was risky ...
the whole Christmas story, explains this risk in a way.

That means to be holy and to live so, is a risk.
And who wants such a risk?
We avoid this, if we have an option to do so.
We need a calm and balanced life.

And ... .. not every risk is a chance to holiness.
Then many people like adventure.
Adventurous types of sports, adventurous tourism ...
Some of them can be fatal ...
But many of them do ... It brings fun.
So risk alone is no help for a holy life.

Then what do we need?

My dear brothers and sisters,
as believers acquire again the once lost innocence and holiness through the baptism. Thus we are chosen for God’s grace. And if we take risks to protect this sanctity and innocence, then it helps to holiness.

To believe in and witness God is a risky lifestyle.
It is not only for the many missionaries in foreign countries possible: we can live here this.

If we listen to the voice of God,
if we sacrifice our selfishness for others,
if we act human,
if we help others,
…then we all act like Joseph and Mary.

Family is the best training ground for this...
There, we can help each other,
if I put away some of my benefits for my partner or for my children or for my parents or my siblings consciously and with love…

Holiness needs to a “family”...
Not only at home ... but here in this church, we are a family ...
then we are the Children of God ...

So a family or society is important in order to be holy.
Let us use the chance of life ... then we have a “family” here on Earth.
We have a large family as God's children.

So we can eliminate the boredom.
This brings fun ... fun to live ...
Live for others and for me in the light of God.

May the Holy Family from Bethlehem be our role model. Amen!

-

Fr Thomas Kalathil

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Christmas Night - Sermon thoughts (Lk 2, 1-14)

Christmas Night - Sermon thoughts (Lk 2, 1-14)

Fist of all I wish you all a very blessed Christmas.

May the remembrance of the new born Christ Child

empower and cherish our lives.

In today’s Gospel we come across with Luke’s special narration of the History. It starts with the description of Augustus the Caesar.

But this does not provide us a full description of that majestic, historical King. A re-reading of the passage will explain us -

this story of the Caesar gives way to another story;

it is the narration about Jesus,

a poor child of poor carpenter and his simple housewife.

And this child seems to be greater than the Caesar Augustus:

and of course he is so.

He is not merely a baby in the crib.

He is the only son of God.

And because of that, Luke describes about this child…more than the Caesar.

There are two histories which we trace out from this passage.

The colourful and powerful history of Kings and Emperors…

A history between Men…Story of Kings and kingdoms…

They are filled with wars and pacts, loss and gain.

Some rulers were really good in serving their reign.

And some lived at the cost of others.

Any how this reign of Humans did never quench the thirst of many.

They were still in search of a better “reign”…

Here we see the second history: the Salvation History.

It is a History of God and Man.

Surely this Kingdom cannot satisfy “some” of the human physical needs. Because this King deals with the Heart and Soul of the people.

The history of this world needs a divine intervention.

It is then only complete- this narration can be explained in such a manner:

Here is the importance of Christmas!

God incarnates means; he is “taking flesh” in to the history of me and you.

He is becoming an “experiencing reality”.

Not like in the Old times…

He comes not to show his might and power, but to save me and you;

To save all of us.

He comes not with law and sword or with his soldiers.

He comes with love and justice and his message is peace, joy and justice.

My dear friends,

Christmas is a call to recognize our Stories, our history.

Then our history is not a mere earthly history.

It is blessed by the incarnated God.

He is Emmanuel, the God who is with us.

We realize from the Bible that,

people were not satisfied at the time of Jesus. It was the same before Jesus.

They were unsatisfied even Yahweh was guiding them.

It remains same in our time too.

In that sense all these Christmas celebrations of

God’s incarnation alone cannot solve all our issues.

One can achieve the grace of this wonder,

if he is ready to accept God, in to one’s life.

Our participation is required and it is a must to experience God-incarnated.

And it is God alone, who can fill the “Islands of Unsatisfactions” in our lives.

Christmas is a call to connect our story with “His” Story.

He can transform our stories of unhappiness to a blessed one.

He can transform our Families to a place of happiness and Peace

He can transform our Churches to places of brotherly love and joy.

Christmas is accurately this call to get transformed.

It is not something that happens externally.

But it should happen in the spirit and faith; in thoughts and deeds.

As “the Word was made Flesh”…

Then it is Christmas…a real “to be with God”…

Let us experience this Christmas Season in this new Transformed Spirit!

Amen.

-

Fr Thomas Kalathil

4th Sunday in advent - Sermon thoughts - Matthew 1, 18-24

4th Sunday in advent - Sermon thoughts - Matthew 1, 18-24

What we heard in the Gospel is about the family of Jesus.

We see his parents: they have a problem, a big problem.

Mary stands helpless, because she is conceived by the Holy Spirit, before her marriage. Who can understand their innocence?

We also see her husband Joseph.

He is perplexed: his future wife is in a difficult situation.

The Gospel calls Joseph as a righteous man.

It suits him very well, because he ...

... does not make any quick decision.

... acts not for his right, but has a human concern.

Joseph takes no decisions at the beginning. This seems to be very important in the further development.

The situation bothers him very much ... But he is sober and thinking,

before he acts.

He had right to refuse to Maria:

but he knew what would happen if he does so.

The people will stone Mary with her child. That was sure as that was their rule!

So, Joseph gets in the nightly rest his advice

God comes for his help in vision.

Matthew expresses God speaking to Joseph: “Joseph, son of David! Do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife!”

It was not a mere dream for him.

He “heard” in this vision, the voice of God.

And he could not contradict God.

After this experience, everything get changed...

The child and Mary are no longer a "problem" for him.

He perceives everything differently ...

The angel tells him that the child is God's son.

Now he gets a great and important task ...

He must protect this divine life ...

And he is happy to do so...

Joseph is a great person.

He “gives” God and man a chance for life on Earth.

He solves the puzzle so fine ...

Our world is in a hurry. Everything must be done quickly.

Everything that is slow may not fit into our world!

A slow car or a computer ... we have enough examples ...

And Joseph distinguishes us here.

Joseph tells us today, there is always a solution for every problem ...

You have to take time for yourself ... to think ...

seek and get Advice and help from God and people...

The evangelist says Joseph “was righteous”.

He saw not only his right but the right of Mary to live further.

He saw not only his problem: he saw the problems of Mary and the child.

He acted just, not just self-righteous!

Joseph is a role model for many of us.

He gave God an important and worthy place in his life.

He listened to God’s Voice. He realized it…

He acted fairly and humanely.

Above all, he says to us silently:

“See the hidden possibilities and chances, behind the problems that seem to be preventing your life.”

We need mature decision ... For God, for men and also for us ...

This will lead us to life, peace and joy.

May this Advent season help us all. May St Joseph intercede for us. Amen!

--

Fr Thomas Kalathil

3rd Advent Sunday – Sermon Thoughts – Mt 11, 2-11

3rd Advent Sunday – Sermon Thoughts – Mt 11, 2-11

In today's Gospel we hear actually an interesting point.

This passage has 3 parts.

First, comes the question of the disciples of John the Baptist.

Then Jesus' answer to it.

Then the (praising) words of Jesus about John.

John sent his disciples with the question, "Are You the promised Messiah?" A question that may question the faith of John?

But we do know he has already recognized Jesus the Messiah, and accepted his greatness ... The Baptism of Jesus, was the sure reference.

Now what about the question: the experts of the Holy Script explain it, as a general question. The people of Israel are in waiting for the "right" savior.

In all the prophets they searched for this Messiah who would liberate them.

They have tried unsuccessfully in John ... but he said precisely that he was not the Messiah ... He was to prepare the way for the Messiah.

Thus came Jesus, then “he must be” the one who saves the people ...

But he does not say anything regarding it...

His activities gave no such hints for it ...

Of course there comes the question: Are you the one? Or should we wait for the right one? And that means, “shall we continue in this slavery"?

We can understand the feelings of the mass to some extent...

Because they suffered from the Romans a lot...

Now the answer of Jesus explains all ...

Many things written in the Psalms and from the prophet Isaiah comes true.

So Jesus clearly "admits" himself as the Messiah.

But unfortunately, People want only wonders ...they are moved the superficial events… they severely lack a deep understanding of the prophecies...

First and foremost the question John is resolved ...

John understands Jesus as the Messiah.

One can say: He confirms it again ... through this passage too.

The question and answer is really for us to awaken our faith ... to increase it to question it again and again…

Is Jesus the Christ? And how?

Is he light in my darkness (of faith)?

Is he a help in my life (path)?

If he is healing for me? How do I feel him?

Can I recognize his voice?

Jesus praises John, because he sees in Jesus the Messiah and welcomes him so. John is blessed because he understands the Messiah not as a political liberator ... Rather, a liberator of the soul ...

Yes, Jesus is the savior, who came to liberate us ...

Not a political freedom of the soul ...

He offers the peace and joy in and with God.

Advent is the time again to address this core issue.

Light, life, healing, joy.... immerse everything in God ...

This should be the supreme discovery of the time ...

This does not mean that we have a life without suffering and burden.

No, God promises us no such life.

But in everything- in sufferings and burdens

we must not leave the “Hand of God”.

He gives us strength and joy to continue to live and go.

On this third Sunday of Advent, we remember it specially,

that we have a God who goes with us ...

who strengthens us, lights our paths and heal our souls.

We are happy about that too…

May His peace and joy be with us. Amen.
--

Fr Thomas Kalathil

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2. Advent Sunday – Mt 3, 1-12 - Sermon Thoughts

2. Advent Sunday – Mt 3, 1-12 - Sermon Thoughts 

We make decisions daily.
Many of them are for our sake. Some decisions are for the others too.

We are also very happy to do the second than the first.

Because decision is not only a passing of opinion,

it is a kind of Judgement too.

And it is easy to judge others as ourselves.

And now for a good decision, one needs time.
Many rapid decisions can be immature most of the time.

Some are used to them too.

Today’s liturgical readings could be understood in this perspective.

The Gospel is conveying it direct and clear.
“Repent, for the Kingdom of Heaven is at Hand”.
It is none other than a strong appeal to take decision on one’s life.
And this decision is not something for the life here, but it exceeds that.
It proceeds to a life – the Life with God in the Eternity.

It is our decision for God and Life: John the Baptist appeals for that.

The readings also points out to some other decisions.
It is not our decisions. They are the decisions of God.

“Axe lies at the root of the tree, winnowing Fan” are some symbols for the decision of God on us.

Also Old Testament describes some decisions of God:

“a shoot shall sprout from the stump of Jesse, and from his roots a bud shall blossom”

New branch and life in the reading from Isaiah is not a Dream of God, but his decision for our Life. Justice, Faithfulness, Peace…

All these are prepared for us - Some positive and caring decisions of God.

This positive decisions regarding Life, Peace, faithfulness and Justice are the special nature of God’s Kingdom.

And when John appeals for it, it may sound little hard to many:
Not only to us but also for his audience too.
To move the minds of the Pharisees and Sadducees were not a simple task.

These groups in Israel had their positions - in decision making and taking.

They believed and remained in their religious and social decisions.

And John the Baptist preaches in such a society.

Yes, that was “desert”… He cannot expect much fruits there.

Still he appears as the Hermit…
Weak in appearance…But ultra power-packed in the Spirit of the Lord.

He stands there as the Last Prophet, unmoved in his Decision towards God, and his mission.

‘Decision- Taking’ in the religious sense is call to Divine Life.
God has his upper hand in all the decisions.

It is more or less expressed by John the Baptist.

“I am not worthy to carry his sandals. He will baptize you with the holy Spirit and fire.”

Advent is small period of time to rethink on our lives; on our certain decisions.

It helps us to light a new candle in our life.

It helps us to take new decisions in the Spirit of God.

This must bring more light in our life and in our community;

In our families and Church….and in daily dealings.

May this Advent help us all to decide for God, his Peace and Righteousness.

May it help us to give God his right position in our lives. Amen.

 - Fr Thomas Kalathil

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1. Advent Sunday - Year A - Sermon thoughts

1. Advent Sunday - Year A - Sermon thoughts




"Year after year ..." Yes, now it begins again, the Christmas season.
Are you looking forward to it joyfully, or having a bad feeling?

Of course, for many people, Christmas is a joyous event.
Besides the cold, many people like this season.

But the Gospel of the Sunday is just like a thorn in the flesh.
Now, in the time, in which we all want to share in the joyous image of the "sweet boy with curly hair";
but the Gospel of Matthew speaks from a flood.
They also carry off our joy at once.

Because of this, many of us might consider the liturgy as a joy killer.

But the Gospel of this Sunday instructs me,
to play the game of our lives properly.

To understand it in such a way, we need to think peacefully:

What is the goal of the time and what's important?

The answer is simple:
We cannot set the target (of our spiritual life) ourselves, it's given to us.

And it is not just any goal:
the Lord Himself, the Son of Man is coming.
The dark images, the bad message,
must not hide our view;
should not derive us from our target.

We expect nothing but salvation.
God will be coming to us as a human being.
We will welcome him into our midst, and in to our lives.
But for that we require to be vigil:
"Watch therefore: for ye know not at what hour your Lord comes."
This is not a matter of a special vigilance in hours of prayer,
within the church building or during a meditation,
but it must shape our lives:

Even in the daily "business":
in the family, at work, at school, in a community, in the Church, in the field etc

The gospel calls us to be attentive. This should be a daily job.
Just here comes the Lord, because he feels welcome there. We can meet him there.
At the same time there is a hidden danger:
in many preparations and crowds, we can easily miss him very much, even to the core.

The Gospel, the Good News, contains some pictures heavy to mind:
many are certainly difficult to understand.
They should not really frighten us, on the contrary, are set to lead us inevitably to a fundamental question of our faith:

What is the role of God in my life?
Does the goal to which I approach, brings me and the world the salvation. Am I expecting of it?

The gospel message is clear:
"be prepared".
This call starts today very specially at this Christmas season.

Let us practice it in this period:
...as a community of God;
... as the children of God.
May God give us all a blessed Advent. Amen.

-

Fr Thomas Kalathil

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Christ the King Sunday – OT C – Sermon thoughts

Christ the King Sunday – OT C – Sermon thoughts
King – who is a king?
We definitely have some ideas who can be a king.
But from today’s readings we get some biblical pictures about a King.
In the first reading we hear about David – a real king.
He was not a man without his weakness.
But he was popular because he loved his people much.
Perhaps, the most popular King of the Jews of all time.
But can be a king, a “self-rescuer”?
Or want / can the people accept such a king? In fact, not …
I do not think a king who battles for his own protection and let his people down, is not a good King. He will not be a beloved and accepted one.
A king has to fight, and may be until the end of his life.
And when he does that for his people, this is a great king.
But in the Gospel we hear that many laugh at and mock Jesus.
They demand from him to “save himself…”:
yes, they repeat it three times.
Jesus remains silent to their mockery.
But the life and post crucifixion proves definitely that Jesus is the best king.
He fought for life, not for his own or earthly, but for eternal life.
To this end he takes suffering and sacrifices.
He was a special king…
He possessed no weapons:
his weapon was love.
A strange king, who spent his time with sinners and excluded;
He shared his life as bread.
His goal was to provide life: Not a life that of the world.
But a life, that proceeds from God the Father, the designer of life.
Therefore, Jesus promises the “paradise”” for the thief on the cross.
He used this word with the original thought…
A Paradise, where divine life meets the human as in the beginning.
Jesus will restore this lost God-Men relationship.
As a special King…
Jesus is a question for our contemporary faith:
If he is our king?
He is not a ruler with power. He used no violence.
He wants to unite and lead us, as the shepherd …
He is Lord of your heart ..
A strange king … the unique King of Hearts…
Let us keep our hearts open and ready for him..
also our families, our church communities …
May his love be with us …
May his life be in us …
His peace be with us … Amen!
-
Thomas Kalathil

33rd Sunday in OT C – Sermon Thoughts (LK 21, 5-19)

33rd Sunday in OT C – Sermon Thoughts (LK 21, 5-19)

Is the gospel “the good news”?
The horror scenarios which Jesus lists:
wars, riots, the fall of the Temple, earthquakes, plagues, famines, arrests, prosecutions … – In short all are “terrible things.
They are in no way something to be cheerful…
Is Jesus the prophet of destruction? Or he brings life and hope?
After hearing the Gospel, many of us may think so.
We know that every life is temporary.
The gospel makes us all aware about it today.
Especially those who live without faith in Jesus, has longer “life”.
We are warned to be vigilant:
“Keep … get ready because the Son of man coming at an hour where you do not expect it.”
…Fear … To be ready …we know these feelings …
Who’s afraid of an Exam?
Someone who is well prepared for it has certainly no fear or less …
and he, who is not well prepared, must fear it.
Also, in the belief, Jesus asks us all exactly this kind of willingness.
Even if Jesus predicts the destruction of the temple, it is not against Jews or Judaism in the first place, I think.
Everything built by human hands, has an end.
Not only the temple but also our human body are subject to decay and destroy.
Perhaps more than this, these buildings symbolize the pride and power of the Jews. They symbolize their special call as “the chosen people of God”.
If they think this particular vocation alone gives them eternal salvation,
then Jesus says a big “no”.
Only those who stand firm and live the faith are saved.
It is valid not only for Jews but also for us.
Baptism alone saves us never…
Faith alone does not save us…
Bible alone does not save us …
We need baptism, communion, faith, God’s word and a coherent life.
Then we have the hope to be saved.
God is not only to judge us, but also to give his life. It is his prime mission.
Talk about the punishment is not to spread fear, but to move and inspire to faith, trust, God’s love and mercy.
Because so tells us the gospel:
“…but not a hair on your head will be destroyed.
By your perseverance you will secure your lives.”
It is not to frighten us, but to guide us to make something special out of life. Life is a unique and precious gift that you can not just waste.
If we trust in God’s forgiveness and mercy, let us “be merciful as the heavenly Father is!”
Our compassion may be a deposit to get forgiveness!
In the Beatitudes we are promised,
“Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy.”
God is righteous in his mercy.
Let us follow him to life. Amen.
-
Fr Thomas Kalathil

32 Sunday in OT C – Sermon Thoughts (LK 20, 27-38)

32 Sunday in OT C – Sermon Thoughts (LK 20, 27-38)
In the New Testament we often see that the Pharisees argue with Jesus.
Today we see another group, the Sadducees-
a privileged and aristocratic group at the then Palestine:
They defended the right and the strict orthodoxy.
Except the first 5 books of Moses, they did not believe other traditions, esp. the Oral traditions of the Pharisees.
They have adopted no new ideas.
Their teachings were particularly “strict” to the normal people.
Contrary to the faith of the Pharisees,
they were against the resurrection, angels and spirit.
Now here comes a Man
He had no training as a wealthy and aristocratic Sadducee.
But his words are accepted warmly.
A large number of people gathered together to listen to him.
He was not like their other leaders…He is so near to them…
they can touch him … they can talk to him …
They may eat and pray with him …
Yes, Jesus brought new teachings and new life in to their lives.
He perceived the rituals and rules with a different angle.
He raised his voice for men.
To this end, he motivated others too.
He interpreted everything in love- love of God and neighbor.
‘The Sabbath was made for humankind, and not humankind for the Sabbath”
(MK 2, 27) or
”Give to the emperor the things that are the emperor’s, and to God the things that are God’s.” (Mt 22, 21)
Such teachings were intolerable for them.
Therefore, they start a dispute with the son of a carpenter.
They assumed they were clever. If Jesus is supporting the Resurrection, it is against their belief. If he withdraws his teachings now, he is not a credible person at all. He is t the same time an enemy of the Pharisees.
Jesus understands and solves this problem as a wise rabbi.
His arguments, particularly the reference to the call of Moses at the burning bush was accurate.
But did that help them? Whether Jesus could convince them?
Sure, they no longer dared to ask him tricky questions.
And even some scribes confessed recognizing:
“Master, you have responded well.” (Lk 20, 39)
But that sounds more like recognition for a scholar whose arguments are appreciated. But it was not a conversion at all.
Jesus too expects something like that…
Jesus came not to win with arguments.
He wanted to win people – for the kingdom of God.
His message was not with the brain, but came from his heart.
His God is the God of the living, not the dead.
Whoever believes in him shall rise again …
that was certainly the view of Jesus.
There are many people ask the critical questions.
I do not know if all do really deserve a response.
Rather, they want to express their dissatisfaction;
some to destroy their opponents.
‘Anyone who has a dissenting opinion must die. But not forever.’
The message we get from the book of Maccabees is such..
Jesus had to sacrifice his life because he had some counter-opinions.
He died for justice and compassion for people, for the Kingdom of God.
But it was not forever. He lives on according to his truly credible words.
And the Sadducees who placed their laws above the men, vanished without trace from history (after AD 70).
Yes, Jesus is risen, he lives on. His teachings are life giving.
As his followers, let us live credibly;
Let us accept God and Men in divine love.
May the living God bless us all. Amen!
-
Fr Thomas Kalathil

31. Sunday – Ordinary Time C- Sermon Thoughts (LK 19, 1-10)

31. Sunday – Ordinary Time C- Sermon Thoughts (LK 19, 1-10)
On this Sunday we meet Jesus on his way to Jerusalem.
There were many people who met Jesus on the way. But the experience of an Chief officer in the Customs, Zacchaeus – he was not a tax collector, because many consider him so – gets a special attraction in the Gospel.

Luke says he was seeking to see Jesus who he was: He had an ardent desire to meet Jesus. Even though he was rich and had power he was reluctant to meet him direct. So he climbs on a tree. This Sycamore tree had enough leaves and branches to hide a small man like Zacchaeus.

Jesus makes a stop under the sycamore tree and looked up. This was a call for Zacchaeus.

Just like Zacchaeus we think we can hide ourselves from others with many tricks. And it may be possible for a period.
But to hide away from God is impossible.

Zacchaeus is partially in many of us:
We have the desire to know God… But many are not getting this experience in the right way. Many of us are connecting God with our rituals and external activities, which is only a partial side of God.

Zacchaeus’ success gives us some tips. This says

1. we need the desire for God. Desire is not just some emotion, but it must move us to action for the purpose.

2. we have to be on the way. Zacchaeus’ desire to know Jesus moved him to the way of Jesus. We have to recognize, the way of God in our life, society and must be there to meet him.

3. We must hear his invitation: We need a keen heart to hear God. His voice is powerful, but not forcing. So to listen to him asks from us attention. His voice is heard in the Church, in the Holy Bible, though good people etc.

4. We have to act according his will: all the above 3 steps are fruitful with the action. Zacchaeus acted according to his Conscience. Jesus never asked from him to do that. One has to act according to the conscience and rightly.

We hear in the Gospel, that the Chief Officer of the Tax collectors, is also one among the children of Abraham.
He had no more inferiority thoughts,
because he is also one in the faith and included in the salvation work.

Zacchaeus must be a motivation for our time.
We are all invited specially to be with God.
But the other desires in us have extinguished the desire to be with God.

But it means not an end.
On Each Sunday morning we are invited to meet him in a special way here in this Church. Each day is an invitation to meet Him personally, in the Word he shares, in the Bread and wine he is present before us, in the various people, who are around us, in the charity, in the talks, in the concerns, in the life he grants us each morning, in the power to do our work… Yes he is present in all, His spirit is guiding us.

Are we recognizing him?
Does he help us to overcome some of our sorrows?
Does he strengthen us to carry the burden of the surprises of the life?

Zacchaeus had a totally different life after his time with Jesus.
It purified him, filtered him. He was free from the chains of Richness and property and entered in the world of love and sharing enriched by the divine.

Each Sunday, each celebration of the Eucharist, each sacrament, each prayer are invitation to this supreme and sublime entry.

How we respond to the calls?
Are we staying in his path? Can we hear him? Can we invite him to our lives?
And finally do we have enough power to enter in to God’s freedom by breaking the chains of “modern slaveries”?  May God Bless us. Amen!
-
Fr Thomas Kalathil

30th Sunday – Sermon thoughts (Lk 18, 9-14)

30^th Sunday – Sermon thoughts (Lk 18, 9-14)

Today’s Gospel passage is the follow up from the last sunday.
If the last sunday was a guideline for us to pray unceasingly, this passage tells us how to pray.

Or better to say, what one should avoid in the genuine prayer.

Just like the last sunday we see two persons in this passage.

This time a Pharisee and a tax-collector.

Pharisee was a good man. He fulfilled the spiritual needs as the law directed.

He was more accepted in the society rather than the tax-collector and that means the tax-collector was not having a “spiritual-life”.

But at the end of the passage the tax-collector returns pleasing God than the Pharisee.

Pleasing the society is not bad in itself but it must also please God too.

In that matter the pharisee was a failure.

He tried to do everything according to the law, to please the external needs.

But the core lesson of charity and humanity was lacking in him.

The real problem of the Pharisee was not that he prayed less.

But he prayed in order to show.
His problem was in comparing his spiritual-life with the lives of others.

He was “standing before God”, but his heart was behind the “weakness of the tax-collector”.

Comparison is not bad at all.
It may help us to better our life and actions.

But there is a danger in this mathematical-dealing.

One tries to be better than the other in every matter.

This “to be better-thought” may lead one to psychological and social imbalance.

Because of this need of overtaking others, one becomes restless and unsatisfied in the life.

One may make his “brother” even his enemy.

We have plenty of examples for this:

Many of our celebrations are turned to be some kind of shows.

One shows costly dress, heavy Golden ornaments one can hardly see the bride.

But occasionally forgets the social justice, from our side.

We close our eyes on the need of the humanity, but are ready to go for any extend for our pleasure and esteem.

This we have started from our nursery classes. This will go unto the cemetery.

But It may not lead us to “heaven”.

Do we need heaven and god’s grace?

Then it is time to come down, to the earth:

Let us accept the needs and weaknesses of others.

Let us be proud in helping them, to be better human.

Let us please God and Men in the right way.

May God bless you!

-

Fr Thomas Kalathil

29th Sunday in OT – C – Sermon thoughts (LK 18, 1-8)

29th Sunday in OT – C – Sermon thoughts (LK 18, 1-8)
This Sunday offers us two readings asserting the necessity of continual prayer. In the First reading from Exodus, we hear, Moses helps Joshua in the battle: not with his physical power, but with the spiritual one. He climbs the mountain with Aaron and Hur to pray for his people. And the scripture describes as long as Moses lifted up his hand in prayers, the Israelites were powerful.
Some different story is heard in the Gospel today. It is about a Judge and a widow. The Judge was a man “who neither feared God nor respected any human being” says Luke. But the uninterrupted petition of the Widow for “justice” pushes him to take some action, for her advantage.
Jesus tries to explain the need of Prayer with the help of this figure, but certainly this Judge cannot be placed with the figure of God.
God is better than this Judge. Jesus’ message is that.
His aim is to animate his listeners: to not to give up the prayers, even if they think that their prayers are not heard.
The woman pleads for “a just decision” (it is the better explanation of “revenge” in Hebrew-Context).
We don’t need much to hear about prayer, because it is hundred times said. Everything might be only mere repetition. In that case let us think about the relation between Prayer and Justice, for a while.
Many of us are daily asked to do it- to take a just decision- if there is a child at home. We know children have many needs. They for any extend to get their needs satisfied. At first they may ask, later on it can be turned in to cry, some may go for even “hunger-strike”. But all their needs are not satisfied: the parents’ takes decision – a right and just decision. It is permitted if it is good, otherwise it is rejected.
Justice; it is the Will of God for Jesus. His prayers were based on that; the will of God must be done. All his prayers were not satisfied.
Jesus, yes, the only Son of God had to undergo the passion and sufferings; his prayers were “unheard” for many at least for some days. Till they realize the moments of his resurrection. Yes that was the “justice”, the “will of God”. The prayers of Jesus had their full fruit in that moment.
Some times we are to follow this secret ways; Pains and Illness, pressure and criticisms: but it is not the end.
Let us not forget the truth; we aren’t greater than Jesus, the Son of God. If he had to suffer, then why can’t we too? If his prayers were rejected till the resurrection, why can’t it happen to me and you?
Finally, he asked us to “take the cross and follow”.
It also means to Remain in prayer; to be with God, even in your trails and tribulations; even in the moments of sorrow and rejection.
He says and asserts his message with his Life- resurrected:
You will have a day of Justice;
you will enjoy the will of God;
you will have a day of resurrection.
Let us remain in prayers in patience. Amen!
-
Fr Thomas Kalathil

Sermon Thoughts – 28th Sunday (Lk 17, 11-19)

Sermon Thoughts – 28th Sunday (Lk 17, 11-19)

There is a ‘Tintumon Joke’ spreading in internet:
One day Tintumon comes home and asks mother:
“Mum, people think that I am God!”
“why?” “Who said that?” asked his mother eagerly.
“I went again to our neighbour house and the lady shouted;
“Oh, my God, are you again here!”…
(…because it was nearly a week he broke their window-glass with a cricket ball.)
It may be a simple joke.  But it says a truth.
We use the word “God” most time out of place or with out much awareness of the meaning. Awareness of God in the life is 10%; says the Gospel passage of this Sunday. There were 10 asked for a healing. All the ten were healed, without any hard work from their side at all. On their way to the priest (for purification) and to convince the society, it is just only 1 out of 10 returns to Jesus. There is less awareness about God in the lives of 9 healed Jews.
There may be 2 reasons for that:

1. The urge to fulfil the necessary “rituals” might have compelled the healed 9 Jews to go to priest, rather to return to Jesus.
2. Taken for Grantedness or unawareness of God’s assistance in the life.

The Samaritan ‘pagan’ had no such thoughts of ritual-compulsions. His prime aim was a healed body. And he returns to Jesus to thank him, who healed him; intervened in his life.
Just like the 9 Jews, we too forget God in our daily worries and hurries.
Jews had the thought that they were God’s chosen people. So it was God’s ‘natural duty to work wonders for them’???
If an old person gets help in a street, I used to hear such a comment, “you are an angel”. It is not the “word of gratefulness” for that we have to go after. But more than that, it reminds me and you, about a mission- an angelic mission.
We are called to be the Messengers of God in our life –a unique messenger; to represent God in our own style.
As in a prayer, “…we are the hands of God in world, as God has no hands to do it”.
If a society is away from God, we are somehow responsible for that. Because we are not representing Him: remember, we are created in the “image of God” and our images have less resemblance to God’s image.
We see some change in this passage very clearly: ‘Master’ becomes ‘God’. ‘Cry’ becomes ‘adoration and praise’.
That is the wonder, the inner wonder of this Gospel. Meeting God in our daily life, must give us such changes in our lives: our sorrows and grievances must be changed in to praises. God must be nearer than the past.  May God bless us. Amen!
-
Fr Thomas Kalathil

Sermon Thoughts – 27th Sunday in Ordinary Time – C

Sermon Thoughts – 27^th Sunday in Ordinary Time – C

“If you have faith the size of a mustard seed, you would say to (this) mulberry tree, ‘Be uprooted and planted in the sea,’ and it would obey you.”
Dear sisters and brothers in the Lord,
What was your though when you heard the Gospel text? What memories and feelings have come up in you?
Did this statement make us thoughtful? Is our faith, really so little, that has not even the size of a mustard seed? Are we really that much bad and inconsistent in our faith towards God?
Do we need a “faith – strengthening” as the Apostles?
Yes, maybe some of us!

We always consider faith as the possession of “the truth”, as some predefined structure, and that gives everything “the correct answer”.
Faith is but quite different. Faith doesn’t serve readymade answers; it doesn’t offer the safe soil. Faith is trust in God. Faith is to endure open-ended questions. Faith helps one, to put his questions to God: e.g. the question Why? Why suffering? Why this misery on earth?
We as human beings can not move mountains. Only God moves mountains. But we can develop a belief that encounter with people, being with people on their way of life and gives them strength and confidence. Thus we can move their hearts…change them towards God.
We can then learn with the faith that our world has much wrong; so much hunger, war and violence which do not match to our world that should be.
We can then learn with the faith that we do not fear the future and discouragement, but can develop confidence in the future because we have Our God who is with us.

We can then learn with the faith that we do not feel small before God, but have the courage to ask questions and to endure.
We can then learn with the faith that we tackle life as the servant of the Gospel.

Let us descend from the mountain of our selfishness and ask God for it.
Just as the apostles prayed:
„Lord, Increase our faith.“
That is not a shame on us, but more than that we are praying for his Presence in our lives. We are accepting His mightiness that succeeds every power of the universe.
That does not make us poor and weak, but make sharers in His richness and strength. Let us pray humbly, “Lord, Increase our Faith”.
God bless us. Amen!
- Fr Thomas Kalathil

Sermon Thoughts 24th Sunday OT C

Sermon Thoughts 24th Sunday OT C
Dear Friends,
Today we have heard all the “heart” of the Gospel of Luke. Namely, the joy of God through repentance of the sinner from the parables of the lost sheep and the lost coin.
At first, the parable of the lost sheep: perhaps there was never been such a detailed picture: The shepherd goes after his astrayed and exhausted animal and takes it on his shoulders; a good image for an extraordinary reality which we believe: God brings home the lost!
He takes the initiative, he struggles and cares about every single thing!
In the lost coin, the typical Palestinian relations of that time is presented. The woman is poor; a Greek drachma is about the daily wage.
The house is small, perhaps even without windows, and because of that the woman must light a candle, to search. “And if she finds it, she calls together her friends and neighbours and says:
Rejoice with me because I have found the silver coin that I had lost. “
But the image of the lost sheep we are probably the more important.
Here we can recognize ourselves. The parable gives us a happy and encouraging message. It tells us that God loves each and every one of us and it is unconditional. He comes after us when we are lost, he carries us on his shoulders when we are weak and he looks forward to our return to him.

‘Whoever open out, comes home’, this is the title of a pilgrimage book.

So if you want to come home then try to give the start!
Uncertainties and uncertainties have to be faced.

Unfortunately many people are missing these experiences, however.
They think, ‘Yes, I live properly’ and ‘have no need to return home’.
They may have everything for their lives. They may have no financial worries.
But the experience of a path to God and reconciliation are missing a lot. And thus, the experience to return home and to be happy too.
Who are the ‘sinners’ to which I can point the finger?
Whom shall I preach morals?

The story we heard in the Gospel tell us something very sharp:
we are all meant.
– I myself am meant there.
I wish that we come to us first on this knowledge can.
Then we can expect the saving hands of our God. Amen.
– Fr Thomas Kalathil

Sermon Thoughts – 23rd Sunday in OT C (Lk 14, 25-33)

Sermon Thoughts – 23rd Sunday in OT C (Lk 14, 25-33)
Some of us may be shaking their heads when we hear it, „If any one comes to me without hating his father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters, and even his own life, he cannot be my disciple.”
If we take this statement literally, so probably the least of us here can be “true” disciples of Jesus. Exceptions may be some hermits, monks and nuns.
How can and must we understand the words of Jesus?
First, we have to consider the background and time when Jesus gathered his disciples; and also the time of the church where the gospel was written.
Jesus called his disciples and travelled with them across the country. In order to get a fruitful result, Jesus asked for abandonment of some commitments including the separation from family.
We know, in the early church, the confession of Jesus was truly dangerous. To be a Christian means to make a life decision. The “submission” to Christ was in the early church often associated with the threat of persecution or death.
And when the Gospel words appear so had to us, it says this: The disciple must not be discouraged because of the consistent family tie ups.
In our world, especially (western world) we do not understand this so seriously. Many of us are in generally good condition – despite all the problems in the relationship, partnership, profession or health.
Persecution or discrimination against the Christians doesn’t bother us. Among the highest goals and values are not only good relations, an intact family, security, especially the material security. But in many parts of the world, many Christians suffer much because of their faith in Christ …
But, whether in India or Turkey, or here in Germany, the question is very important: How we may be disciples of Jesus Christ now? Is it enough to have the baptism or confirmation certificate or the regular service on Sundays?
I think that following Christ is even now something challenging and requires an unmoveable YES with so many consequences.

One, who wants to follow Jesus, belongs to a community: it is the space one professes his faith to pray and celebrate.
One, who wants to follow Jesus, has solidarity with the underprivileged of this world and will fight for justice and peace. (Which we do in these days especially for people in Pakistan, whom we have never seen and will never see …)
Who wants to follow Jesus, will not turn the willingness to want to own and be holy.
Holiness has nothing to do with ecstasies and miracles. Holiness is the real call of every Christian. It is the part of the personality and will therefore find expression in private life, as a father or mother, as a single, as a young or elderly person, in the cultural, economic, religious and political spheres of activity. We understand this Holiness as “love of God and Men.”
Yes, it is not always easy to follow Jesus. To follow Him includes the cross – the embracing of problems, hostility, grief and more.
Behind all that we know and trust, that there is One who goes with us and accompanies us; straightens when we are tired, helps us to carry the cross when it is difficult to us, shows us the way through this life if we are stuck.
It is Jesus himself – he who has called us to follow him.
When we rely on him, we are saved. God bless us all! Amen.
-
Fr Thomas Kalathil

Sermon thoughts: 22. Sunday in Ordinary time C: (Lk 14, 1.7-14)

Sermon thoughts: 22. Sunday in Ordinary time C: (Lk 14, 1.7-14)
There are some grades among men: some have more to say than others.
Jesus speaks today about this sensitive issue: the order of precedence among men.
When seats are assigned to, there is a place of honour, there are better and worse places. By nature, man strives to be as high as possible. He wants to be the first everywhere.
Jesus notes this “search” for the first positions at a banquet, invited by a leading Pharisee. He takes this opportunity to give them a lesson: “Sit down to the lowest seat! He who exalts himself will be humbled and whoever humbles himself will be exalted.”
At first glance, this seems like a particularly clever way to get a better place, but that’s not what Jesus really aims. He aims for a static attitude in the handling of human beings.
He himself has set an example: “He was like God, but did not set out to be like God, but emptied himself and became like a slave … he humbled himself and was obedient unto death, even death on the cross“; says the letter to Philippians.
On the cross, Jesus took the lowest place. “Therefore God has exalted him above all and gave him the name which is above every name.”  And it is in the resurrection, he gets the first place.
But how could Jesus take the last place, that’s so unpopular to our nature? He said on another occasion: “My honor I receive not from men … It is my Father, who glorifies me, he says.
Jesus has laid down his life from childhood to death in God. The 12-year-old boy says to Mary and Joseph in the temple: “Don’t you know that I must be with my Father?”.
On the cross he cried out: “Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit.”
Anchored in God, Jesus could take the last place, for he was aware of his place of honor with his father.
The same is applicable for us. We need not got for the hunt for the best place, because we have this already: We are heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ!
We need not be concerned about our reputation, because we are seen by God’s loving care. Those who join in the hunt for the best seats, has lost sight and will slowly lose his peace and joy in life.
The reality we face is not an easy one. Nevertheless, it is possible: He who knows his fellow man can easily love and believe in the love of God, And respect the human dignity too. This may help one to see everything in the faith in God. The honour of the World may not bother him any more.
Let us regain our sights. May God bless us all. Amen.


-
Fr Thomas Kalathil

Sermon Thoughts – 16th Sunday in Ordinary time C – (LK 10, 38-42)

Sermon Thoughts – 16th Sunday in Ordinary time C – (LK 10, 38-42)
Martha and Maria – The Gospel narrates two figures from Jesus’ life. But some meditation on these figures will prove that they are also some characters in our lives, we come across with. These two women stand for ‘Useful and Essential’ matters of the daily life.
The context is very emotional and exceptional for the family. It is Jesus who visits them; the famous young man who speaks about God, in a very attractive manner; who heals the sick and even has power to give life to the dead. This visit is certainly special for them.
The sisters welcome him in a good manner. Even Martha was good in her behaviour. But the human pride and dissatisfaction towards her sister emerges in her.
She says: “Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me by myself to do the serving? Tell her to help me.”
That means Martha is criticising Jesus first: “.Lord, do you not care?” – Really a childish reaction from her side. Jesus never asked Martha to prepare a great table for him. Food and drink attracted him less. Rather the hearts of the people was his goal. He gained it in Maria, by listening to him.
Then her complaint is against her own sister. She has left “me by myself”. What is the matter with Martha? She wants to say that “it is ‘Me’, who works. I am better than Maria?”. May be…We don’t know…
But Jesus says one thing is necessary.
Be satisfied in life – with others and self.
Maria is in this disposition – she is happy with the presence and the words of Jesus Christ. Jesus is also satisfied, as he has someone near by to listen to him.
The content Martha turns to be discontented and it destroys the total atmosphere of his visit…
Martha can be very easily replaced with some people around us…they are moved by the self esteem. They like to hear compliments and appreciations for each and every activity. Lack of it may disturb them.
Jesus never degrades work. He was also a worker. Here, in this family, Jesus wants from Martha to be a good host. A good host never criticize its guest. A good host provides best reception, best food & drink and best atmosphere.
Martha proved at least in this time she couldn’t accomplish the duty of a good host. She was also unhappy with her happy host and sister. And the criticism of Jesus is against it.
Jesus asks to do one’s duty in its best level. This is his wish not only for Martha, but to the whole world.
Let us work without mutter and complaint. It will give us healthy mind and a healthy world. Let us remain satisfied in the presence of God. Amen.
–
Fr Thomas Kalathil

Sermon Thoughts – 15th Sunday in Ordinary Time – C (Lk 10, 25-37)

Sermon Thoughts – 15th Sunday in Ordinary Time – C (Lk 10, 25-37)

Once, as I was in a Parish, a mother came to me. She complained about her child who was very mischievous. I was asked to pray for him and bless him. During our talk I realized, that the boy’s problem was something complex. He learned many of his habits from his parents. Still they wanted their child a better one. The parents, refused their faults at first, and then began to admit them slowly. My advice was to correct them, at first.
Just like these parents, we are all having utopian ideas. How many research works are there in the book shelves of several libraries resting in dust? How many theories are there in our world, suggesting tricks and tips for universal peace and humanity? Still we cannot manage that. Our words are not corresponding to our actions in many cases. We have plenty of theories. Our world is severely in need of action.
The Gospel passage of this Sunday concentrates mainly on the need of “corresponding action”. The question of the scholar to Jesus contains “what I must do…” And the reply of Jesus contains twice “do”; “do this, do likewise”. There are enough guidelines already given. Act like that.
Surely we are all in action; may be more than any other time-period. But most of the time we act according to our tastes; our will. Our actions are lacking the Divine will. We pray daily, in ‘our father’, “your will be done”! But most of the time, we submit our need to God and compel God to enact according to our needs. God must accept our will as his Will. Otherwise, we will discard our faith; we will criticize him…
The Priest and the Levite had so many rituals and laws regarding cleanliness. Touching blood or dead body will make them unclean. The Samaritan traveller had some advantages, comparing to the Priest and Levite. He too had his rituals and laws as other two. But he was in a way free to handle, I suppose.
Jesus is teaching to get in this freedom. He expresses it in other time “Sabbath is for people, people are not for Sabbath”. The meaning is same: law must help humanity. It must not restrict us from good works. “Love Lord your God, with whole heart” the exhortation of Mose to Israel is only complete when it is expressed; when it comes in to action. How can I express my love to God; not only in offerings and prayers but also through human dealings.
In the time of Jesus, the road from Jerusalem to Jericho was notorious for its danger and difficulty, and was known as the “Way of Blood” because “of the blood which is often shed there by robbers”. The places “Jerusalem” and “Jericho” are having another meaning too. Jerusalem represents Divinity, while Jericho represents, World. The man being attacked travelled in this route. We can also interpret; this man had a Wrong direction. He travelled from the divinity to the worldliness…
We may be able to see many people, who have lost their orientation in their life; who are internally injured. We are called to act in that situation. Our call is to help them. Jesus is the Good Samaritan. He is our guide, reference and example in our actions. He talked less and did much more. His life and actions must inspire us. Let us find out a connection with in our words and works. Amen.
–
Fr Thomas Kalathil

Sermon Thoughts – 14th Sunday in Ordinary time – C (Lk 10, 1-12.17-20)

Sermon Thoughts – 14th Sunday in Ordinary time – C (Lk 10, 1-12.17-20)
Every one loves to be successful in his work. Some must work in dreaming of this time. Some are lucky and get “click” in their area. The disciples of Jesus were enjoying such a lucky moment. The 72 of his followers whom Jesus sent to preach, success in their mission and return to their master with immense joy, to explain about “their” achievement. It is surely one of the best moments in their life: and of Jesus’. So good was their preaching.
In the ancient times great teachers and philosophers had their followers around them. Many lived together with them, till they realize they have learned something for their life. The stay with the master helps them in many ways: they learned not only from the theory but watched and learned from the lives of the teachers.
Jesus was dealing like an ancient teacher. And today’s gospel passage gives some credit to Jesus their master too. Jesus held his followers close to him; so close to his life. There was nothing to hide for Jesus. His life was so transparent and simple.
In the reading from Prophet Isaiah we come across with the best image to the nearness, the closeness of God: “As nurslings, you shall be carried in her arms, and fondled in her lap…”
Mother and child: it is the deepest relation in the living world. Mother, becomes a “mother” by giving life to a child. This gives her absolute happiness. Out of this happiness she is ready to give everything for the good of the baby.
Breast Milk is the best food for babies; says science. Through it, not only the food is transferred, but the feelings of the mother too. The body contact is also very important for a child in its balanced growth.
When Isaiah uses this ‘mother – child’ imagery, he was not sure of the later explorations of the modern science at all. But he was inspired by God. What he preached was his life experience with Him: the God, so close to His children; some one ready to give everything for their good.
Jesus incarnated as the Gift of God – the father – in this world – to nourish, to guide and lead us to the love of God. He presented God so sweet and fatherly to us; he became our food in the growth in the faith. Yes, he gave everything for us. His followers realized it first, some with certain hesitation. And they learned the originality and genuineness of his teaching from his life style.
And that was the strength of his teaching. We hear in Gospel, that the contemporary of Jesus are often in astonishment, hearing the words of Jesus; observing his deeds…
Now his followers too can astonish people. They are grown… they have proved, Jesus is their master!
Yes, we and our faith are the outcome of this astonishment. It derives from the uniqueness and the simplicity of the Great Master Jesus.
Jesus’ message was simple; establishing the Kingdom of God in Love and humanity.
Let us try to keep this Jesus simple and proclaim him, his presence in our day today lives. May he bless us all as he helped his followers! Amen.
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Fr Thomas Kalathil