Sermon thoughts- New Year -B - 2012

If you build a new house or buy a new appliance, you will deal with so much attention.


New Year is a gift. It has many features.
Therefore, we are very optimistic.
We have many expectations in this year.
We have to achieve certain goals in our life, in this year.
So we go with our new time in the new year carefully.


It is right choice that we begin this year with God-God's help.
His blessing and protection are important to us to make use of the good time.


The Blessings from the Book of Numbers (6, 22-27) - the first reading in this day - is well known to us.
It is a three-fold blessing.
The wish is the Omnipresent God, who protects and encircles our lives.
This is a complete trust in God.


Mary, the Mother of Christ, is another picture for this trust in God.


Her character is strange to our world.
She could cheer so great, because she was the chosen Mother of God, which was a unique state. She could have earned the respect and honor of others. However, she remains quiet. She keeps everything in her heart.


Mary is an extraordinary person.
At the beginning of the year, she remains a role model for us.


In the new year we will be witnessing a new era;
we will be receiving a lot of new experiences from the people and from God -
in several ways.
They can affect our dignity. They can make us Pride.


Mary teaches us, not to stumble into everything;
especially not in pride and intolerance.


She teaches us to keep the serenity.
Consider everything as the gift of God.


Let us begin the new era, this new beginning with Mary.
God bless us all ... Amen!
-
Fr Thomas Kalathil

Sermon thoughts - B - 2011 - Christmas

A familiar story - that's Christmas for us. The Evangelists Matthew and Luke portray the birth of Jesus Christ in their Gospels. The only change is in the narration method. But the meaning and the message are the same:
Joy and peace and God's arrival among his people.


"Then I bring you news of great joy ...."
This is the message of the angel to the shepherds first, then to the world.


Yes, Christmas is a festival of joy;
fulfilment of a great expectation of time.
Therefore, it is special than all other feasts in the church.
This feast gives us hope, a stronghold and substantial hope in God.


This hope was not only for the shepherds or for the other people in Judea.
Not only were these people in need or in search of a saviour.
Many of us are also in need; in search of hope - hope that is lasting.
We rarely experience this permanent hope in our human relationships as they can change at any time. The trust between people can break at any time.
But the hope and strengthening of God abides with us for ever.
It is because God is faithful in his promises;
Yes, my dears, that's Christmas.
Christmas is the answer of this great Promise.




Christmas brings us closer to God. He is a man-has become God.
Now we can communicate with him.
These days, many gifts are distributed.
However, this is the greatest gift of all time.




Another message we hear today, is
"Glory to God in the Highest".
It relates with the joy and peace. Then he who seeks honour and glory,
may remain as seeker for ever. It has no end at all.


Those who give God an important place and honour in their lives,
will find peace and joy in life.
They will accept everything as gift from God;
everything comes from God and goes back to him.


God is after such people for his kingdom - we hear this in the scripture.
God seeks those who will honour God.


That is why God chooses an angel or a man to carry on his good news.
He shares with us some of his responsibilities and role in salvation history - and that is the honour that we get. This is a great acknowledgment to us.


My friends,
Christmas means diverse experience. There we find God's greatness in a child; we experience God's recognition towards his people;
we experience His peace and joy that are prepared for us.


Let us take this invitation sincerely. Let us fulfil the mission of God in us.
We are the angels of God in our world. Like Mary and Joseph, let us witness God's peace, joy and hope through our life. This is the greatest gift we can offer to our God.
God bless us all. Amen!
-
Fr Thomas Kalathil

Sermon thoughts - 4th Sunday in Advent - B (Lk 1, 26-38)

When we analyse the reading in Advent Sundays, we will be able to trace out the fact that, most of them contains some questions to God.


In the first Sunday, the Prophet Isaiah was asking questions to Yahweh.


On last Sunday, we heard some other questions. They were from the reporters to question the authority of John the Baptist appointed by Pharisees.


On this Sunday, Mary is asking questions to the Angel Gabriel.


In the first and last instances, they were willing to accept the answers.
Both of them are consciously placed and promoted in the Holy Bible by the Church, to correct some wrong beliefs among the faithful.
Because many consider God cannot be questioned;
For Jews it was a suicidal attempt.


But God comes to men and is willing to be in conversation.
God is not an autocrat. God is not taking our freedom at all.
We are respected by God a lot, in taking decisions.
Isaiah and Mary are examples to this arguments.


Mary is very special for this argument in the advent season. Because she is coming to a conversation to clear her doubts. It is not some act of unfaith or suspicion in the Plan of God. We can consider her questions as a way to know her mission entrusted by God.
After these questions and answer session, she is accepting the plan of God.
She places no conditions at all.
Because she is completely sure of the presence of God in her life;
She is feeling the Divine Plan in her life.


Yes, Mary is the best example for us to prepare the Christmas through this advent season. She is teaching us to be in contact with God; be in conversation with God; to know the Plan of God in your life; to know the will of God.
She is inviting us to come near to God. Not only in this Advent - Christmas time, but through out our life.


Let us prepare ourselves for this great gift. May these few days help us to grow more in this conversation with God.
That can present us a meaningful Christmas and a meaningful faith.


God bless us all through Mary, the blessed Virgin. Amen!
-
Fr Thomas Kalathil

Sermon thoughts - 3rd Sunday in Advent - B- 2011 - Jn 1,6-8.19-28

There are so many talents given to human. But among them the talent of questioning is very special one. Without this there is no philosophy, there is no discoveries and inventions, there is no life at all...


We see this questioning not only in matured one, but even in children. They are very special in forming their questions too. Some times it is very interesting too. It comes out of their curiosity.


We hear 3 times such a question in the gospel.
who are you? the question is repeated thrice to John the Baptist.
Each time the question gets more additions too.


At first I found it very delighting and positive, because they seemed to be very interested in the proclamation of John the Baptist. But the later sentences prove that their questions were not for any creative/ faith-winning- purpose at all. They were there to report on John and his activities. They were simply informants. Or Undercover Informants.


Then, it was such a powerful proclamation done by John; but these people weren't willing to accept the good news as their hearts were closed - or it was mainly busy with their reporting function.
They remained just informants and reporters while others were "transformed" and "receivers".


Of course we are in doubt and in need of answers in our faith practise.
We need some explanation to some happenings in our life.
And these questions get answered if we are open to the truth.
If we are willing to hear and perceive the divine happenings in and around us.


The first reading of the Sunday which is from Prophet Isaiah 61 gives a picture on John. According to the life style of the people in Palestine, the message was not new to them at that time. Then they lived in expecting the coming of the Messiah- their Saviour. At least the scribes and the Priests should have associated the words and works of John together with the Messianic prophecy. They were afraid of the Messiah. So they sent reporters to John the Baptist.


Messiah was not someone to be feared.
Because he is the saviour.
The Prophet Isaiah underlines it. He brings justice and happiness to all.


Of course, the happiness of some may bring fear and losing wealth and status in others; this is reflected in the reactions of different groups in Judea in connection with the coming of the Messiah.
The ordinary folk were welcoming him as the rich and governing groups rejected.


John was sent from God.
He came for testimony, to testify to the light.
Normally we have witness for the past events. We need them to prove something happened earlier.


John the Baptist becomes a special witness: because he is witnessing not some past events, but he gives testimony of that is to happen. He becomes the divine-sign and witness of some thing to come.




This 3rd Sunday enriches us with the thought, to be joyful, even in doubts; even if our lives are surrounded with thousand questions.
We cannot find a matching answers for all our questions in life. Happy is the one who finds answers to his questions.


But we can remain still open and trusting in God, in Divine mediation.
God has an answer and a reason for all our questions.
We can achieve this happiness and Joy only with open hearts.


Our Blessed Virgin Mary too asked questions; but she remained open to the will of God, which gifted her with the unique present - the status of the Mother of God.


Let us learn this grace: to ask questions to God and be open towards his will.
Let us live our advent- expecting the salvation- in Joy and Happiness.
May God bless us all. Amen!
-
Fr Thomas Kalathil

2. Sunday of Advent - B - 2011 - (Mk 1, 1-8)

In today's readings we heard about the comfort, joy and power of God.

Is there any one who do not actually want to be comforted?

Is there anyone without the desire for peace and tranquility?

I think the answer will be a big "NO".

Even the terrorists and rebels seeking for "peace and tranquility" from their own method and idealism, which is often against humanity.

Today's readings are risen in the context of the political and spiritual life of the Israelites. They were a people who sought comfort and peace, which were rare experience. They were often slaves, and have served others.

It was actually a paradox - a contradiction;

because they were the chosen people of God.

Nevertheless, they had to suffer a lot because of there deeds...

There is a proverb in Judea:

"It is easy to get Israel out of exile, than to get the exile from Israel."

Then this unrest and misery and desolation touched their lives from Generation to Generation. They often lived in the memories of their bad experiences. Even some religious ceremonies, e.g.: Passover, served for it.

They sat in a deep abysses of dissatisfaction and helplessness.

Because their life was not in the "plane" but it was full of "hills" and "valleys".

We know those who goes through such a hills and valleys will be tired.

He finds his comfort when he comes to the plane surface - if he can breathe easily.

The Israelites were having such a life.

John the Baptist and his baptism was received quickly, mainly because of this life struggles; because they were yearning for peace.

Gospel tells us; whole Judea and all the inhabitants of Jerusalem came to him and received baptism of John.

Because they put their hope in him.

They could feel the divine proximity and power that is coming to their lives.

They could feel the beginning of divine peace and consolation.

John now becomes the messenger of peace - the messenger of God.

He says, "One mightier than I is coming after me. I am not worthy to stoop and loosen the thongs of his sandals.

I have baptized you with water; he will baptize you with the holy Spirit."

For sure, that was a joyous message for Israel.

They have found their hope for peace and solace again.

In this second Week of Advent we Christians have 2 fold tasks:

1. we are invited to rise up from the depths of our discontent. Because a savior is promised for us. He is more powerful than all the rulers of the world. In Christ, we experience this peace.

2.We are called to be messengers of peace. There are countless people in our midst, seeking simply a word of consolation and gratitude. Charity does not always mean some financial aid; No, it can be a good word or be an encouragement.

Are we ready to take these two tasks,

then we are in Advent - God is near to us:

then we are on the way to Christmas.

May God bless us all. Amen!

-

Fr Thomas Kalathil

Sermon thoughts - 24th Sunday in Ordinary time – A – Mt 18, 21-35

At times certain parts of the Old Testament seem to be too cruel and primitive for us. But they are justified, as they are recognized in the realisation of the People of Israel and their promised land.
But it does not mean that Old Testament lacks mercy and forgiveness.

It is clearly seen in the first chapters of the Holy Bible that God is very kind to Adam and Eve after their disobedience; Cain who killed his Brother Abel was also secured (Gen 4, 15) by God; He was also ready to forgive the people of Sodom Gomorrah for the sake of Abraham and even for ten righteous people among them (Gen 18, 32b).
The concept of Jubilee year in Leviticus (25ff) is based on Mercy and freedom.

In the book of 2 Samuel 16, 5 ff we read, “When King David came to Bahurim, a man of the family of the house of Saul came out whose name was Shimei son of Gera; he came out cursing. He threw stones at David and at all the servants of King David” and the reaction of David was “… Let him alone, and let him curse; for the Lord has bidden him...”
We see here a David- the great fighter and King who forgives…
David was also very merciful to Saul his predecessor and Absalom his own son- both were chasing for the life of David…still he was good to them…
And as a reward David receives God’s mercy for his sins.

Forgiving among the Jews can be divided in to 3: Forgiving debts, forgiving of heart and Purification or (atonement by God only).
The Talmud - a vast collection of Jewish laws and traditions; they are the pillars of Judaism- states: “All who act mercifully (i.e. forgivingly) toward their fellow creatures will be treated mercifully by Heaven, and all who do not act mercifully toward their fellow creatures will not be treated mercifully by Heaven”
If the injured party refuses to forgive even when the sinner has come before him three times in the presence of others and asked for forgiveness, then …he is called akhzari (“cruel”). The unforgiving man is not truly of the seed of Abraham.

We may see this Jewish tradition of limited three times- forgiveness, in Amos 1:3, 6, 9 and Job 33:29-30 too. Peter thought he may be doing better and much more generous than Jewish tradition by forgiving seven times.
But Jesus overtakes David, Peter and all…he says “Not seven times, but, I tell you, seventy-seven times“. Because he is the king of Mercy…and even on cross he proves it…he lives the Mercy and forgivingness.
There are some disputes on the number: some say it is 77 times or 70x7 or 70 times 70. It remains a linguistic issue. But leaving all these limitations we understand what Jesus really wants: he teaches it through his life: he means unlimited mercy.
The same is expressed in the talents parable: 1 Talent was around 36 Kgs of Silver in NT time. That is around 13,000 Euro. The first servant had a thousand times debt by his Master. A denarius was a common laborer's daily wage- today it may be about 3 Euros. Jesus was pointing that the first man had an enormous debt than the second one. It may be an exaggeration, just as the 70 times 70. But in all these He underlines the necessity of forgiving and Mercy.
It is not some suppression – as often criticised. It is a full and free acceptance. It is the only way to reinstate the broken links of relations between Men. It leads us to a vibrant relationship with God as it restores right relationship with God and his creation. It is upbringing us to the divine sphere of God.

Jesus’ Apostles were special in practicing and teaching this mercy. Among them St James can be called the ‘Apostle of Mercy’: He says in his letter (James 2, 13) “For judgement will be without mercy to anyone who has shown no mercy; mercy triumphs over judgement.”
Let us feel the limitless mercy of God in our life…
Let us be the New Apostles of His mercy and Love. That is the message of the Gospel today: and that must form us to the living Gospels of Jesus. May the merciful God bless us all abundantly. Amen!
-
Fr Thomas Kalathil

Sermon thoughts – 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time – A (Mt 18, 15-20)

Today’s readings are about Advice-giving.

Regarding this I had an incident with a family:

there were some issues with the mother and daughter.
As they explained some cases, I advised them to be cautious in their “words”. Because there were some “issues in their communication”. But somehow my advice was not that much “convincing” or that of an expert (professional counsellor). After some months they had severe issues between them and had to visit a Counsellor. After some talks he advised the mother almost the same as I told her before some months.

I don’t know whether their problems are solved by the time. I hope and pray so.

I explained it to say, hardly one accepts an advice.
To take an advice means one is accepting his own weakness;

in thinking, orientation and dealing the Issues in Life.
And it is not that much great feeling for many to be inferior….

It is more difficult to accept the superiority of others’ …

Not only children, or youth, but even grownup people are reluctant in receiving advice.

There may be a small percent who accepts the advice of others open minded.
Many, think as William Shakespeare says: “It is a good divine that follows his own instructions”. 

In Gospel Jesus commands today to give advice. It is not to be superior. But it is a charity towards others; towards the community in which we live.

Jesus is very professional in his advice on advice giving.
he is speaking like a modern psychologist.

At first one has to be corrected personally.

He knew that one must not be hurted in correction.

Then Jesus advises to speak with in the presence of some witness. There too he is respecting the person.

Jesus advices the help of a community in a third stage. Now the situation is more serious.

And to take distance from the person happens only the last stage.

Jesus is teaching them to deal with persons with Responsibility and care. Each one is precious for God. Each step to recover some one is very much important and must be done with great sympathy and concern.

Prophet Ezekiel is more rigorous in this matter.  “I have appointed watchman for the house of Israel.“ if…you do not speak out to dissuade the wicked man from his way, he shall die for his guilt, but I will hold you responsible for his death.”

Both the Prophet Ezekiel and Jesus are teaching the same:

one has responsibility regarding others. He or she is more precious than any cattle that you own.

It is also connected with our salvation too, then it is an act of charity.

Even one hardly accepts an advice, many like to give it…

Jesus knew the human tendency and asks us to do so.

It is not that easy to do so, because it requires one’s convincing life witness too.

“In giving advice seek to help, not to please, your friend”: says Solon the Greek lawgiver & politician in Athens.

Let us discover the salvific secrets of  Advice. God Bless us all. Amen!

-

Fr Thomas Kalathil

Sermon thoughts 22nd Sunday in Ordinary time – A - Matthew 16, 21-27

How should we conduct.

Should we be kind to people or faithful to the will of God?

Regarding this there is always a dilemma in the pastoral activity:

Then we teach God is a human-friendly God. He is the saviour of his people. Sometimes, however, these two aspects confront head to head and the human side loses often against God's will.

In today's Gospel, Jesus talks about His expected suffering in Jerusalem.

Jesus knew that his life is incomplete without this suffering and death. His Gospel includes this suffering; then only through this suffering, the resurrection is possible.

Peter, however, understands Jesus’ words are not so good.

He can not accept it, that Jesus is going to die like that;

then he was special among Jesus' disciples.

Yes, a loving person can listen this only with a heavy heart.

Peter makes allegations, because he loved Jesus so much.

And in this love he sees only the earthly matters.

Remember the gospel of the last Sunday:

Peter declares, Jesus as “the Messiah”. Peter and other disciples have no full understanding of "the Messiah". They had, like all Jews, a purely secular and political expectation about the Messiah. Jesus therefore bans, to spread this news.

Jesus - the Messiah - had to suffer - not some Roman rulers or political leaders but his own people, even the priests and scribes are his persecutors.

Maybe it is too hard for Peter and friends. May be a shock for a Jew.

Jesus confirms that he has a target – a specific target.

No man can contradict him. Then he follows the will of God.

And for Jesus, anyone who repulses him from this target is the Tempter - the

Satan. It is not against the person of Peter, but against his disabled / disabling attitudes and understanding. Although Peter is his vey special disciple, Jesus corrected him that he is completely wrong with this attitude and is an obstacle to his target.

The Evil – the Satan may not appear in startling / frightening form.

But he may often speak to us as a "friend" as a "Guide".

Many of us fail to distinguish this.

The gospel urges us today to consider such voices in and around our life and to compare whether it is the will / voice of God or the voice of the tempter.

It tells us to have the correct target before us.

Then some "human actions" can contradict the will of God.

We need mental strength for that.

We learn it through our faith.

That's what we learn as praying community.

The teachings of the Church and the Word of God can guide us.

Let us check our ways and goals.

God bless us all with his power to discard the evil – tempter from their lives. Amen!

--

Fr Thomas Kalathil

Sermon thoughts – 21st Sunday in Ordinary time Year A - Mat 16, 13-20

God is a mystery. We have learned it so in our childhood.
Even though we are grown up, God is still a mystery to us.
And it will be so.

As God is a mystery, his ways are often mysterious. As the Apostle Paul writes in Romans:
“How inscrutable are his judgments and how unsearchable his ways!”.
St Paul had understood God much and still speaks precisely of the inscrutability of God.

If we consider the behavior of Jesus in the Gospel today, we can not help but think, God's ways are mysterious.

Then it is interesting:
Jesus first asks about the opinion of the people.
These people have not many possibilities to know Jesus.
They saw his many miracles and were astonished about his words and courage. They immediately reminded a prophetical nature in Jesus.
Thus they believed Jesus was a prophet.

The disciples, however, have better experience with Jesus and therefore a better opinion too. Peter is here, representing their faith and say it boldly,
"You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God!"

Actually, Jesus is supposed to be happy that his disciples have understood him correctly. He could possibly ask for, that they should continue declaring this because they have learned the most important lesson.
But Jesus says quietly to tell no one that he was the Messiah.

Yes, his behavior is at unbelievable and because of this style Jesus differs from the others.
Jesus had other reasons to this secrecy.
Then Jesus already knew that their faith is not perfect at this time.

He knew that Peter will soon think differently.
He knew that his disciples seek some better places in his "kingdom".
He knew some of them think that his kingdom is like any other kingdoms.
Jesus knew that they need more time to learn about the “Messiah” closer.

Yet Jesus had great faith in them – in this trust he leaves the “keys” to Peter.
That was certainly not a transfer of power but a handover of service.
He and his friends are called to live this service of concern, patience, love and mercy that Jesus lived.

Not only Peter, but there are many chosen to carry these “keys”.
In the first reading we heard about Eliakim. His name means “God raises”.
God has done so: he was raised as the master of the house of David.

It happens again and again. God seeks people again and again to hand over his “keys of service and love”. Like Peter, God needs people to work for his kingdom. He needs you and me.

The disciples have proclaimed him as the savior, even to the end of the world. In that manner they remained faithful to their proclamation / faith in the Messiah.

Now we are in the place of the disciples.
He gives us despite our weakness, His infinite and eternal grace and faith.
Do we dare like Peter to proclaim Jesus power in our words and deeds?
May God bless us to live our faith deliberately. Amen!
---
Fr Thomas Kalathil

Sermon thoughts – 20th Sunday in Ordinary time A- Mt 15, 21-28

Everyone has a “claim” on God.
Everyone can pray to God. There is no special restriction of religion, culture or colour. The unmovable faith is important. The Gospel in this Sunday is explaining this through the life experience of Jesus and the gentile Canaanite woman.

Jesus’ reaction appears to be “provoking” in the first time.
Normally we don’t hear such usages from Jesus.
He is compassionate and healing and meek.
Especially to women, because they were true followers till his end on the cross. And some of them had not such a ”good” background at all.
Still he was good to them. But the reaction towards this woman is completely “anormal”.

Jesus provokes deliberately by using the terms ‘Dog’ or “only to…the house of Israel”. Jesus may be watching her reaction or her faith -whether it is superficial or a real one.
He may be testing her words/ proclamation, ‘Son of David’; to know if it was a genuine proclamation of her Heart / faith or only a “verbal” influence to get some help.

Then it is good to remember Jesus’ words.
“Not everyone who says to Me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven…” (Mt, 7, 21)
Eternity is not assured through some external practises only.
It needs the basic support of real faith.

To be born as Jew or baptised as Christian is not 100% surety to the eternal life. It is only a starting requirement to enter in to the bliss with God.
Religious ways must shape our complete life.

Salvation is not some thing automatically achieved.
May be there were such thoughts among Jews at the time of Jesus and later in among some Christians in the time of Mathews work on the Gospel.


Even today some believe that “practicing faith” alone helps to be in the kingdom of God.
The “Sola fide” dispute between Luther and the Catholic Church is an example to it.

Vatican II says: “The Catholic Church rejects nothing that is true and holy in these religions. She regards with sincere reverence those ways of conduct and of life, those precepts and teachings which, though differing in many aspects from the ones she holds and sets forth, nonetheless often reflect a ray of that Truth which enlightens all men. Indeed, she proclaims, and ever must proclaim Christ "the way, the truth, and the life" (John 14:6), in whom men may find the fullness of religious life, in whom God has reconciled all things to Himself “(Nostra Aetate 2).

Yes, finding this ‘Source of the Great Light’ is important. And we believe that it is complete in Jesus the incarnated Son of David.

Our faith practices in the Church are help to come to the sources of divinity.

The controversial notion of Anonymous Christian introduced by the Jesuit theologian Karl Rahner declares that people who have never heard the Gospel or even rejected it might be saved through Christ. Non-Christians could have "in [their] basic orientation and fundamental decision," Rahner wrote, "accepted the salvific grace of God, through Christ, although [they] may never have heard of the Christian revelation…
Yes, Jesus emphasizes it: God is not someone reserved for a particular religion – to Jew or to Christian. The wonder granted to the Canaanite woman is its approval. Faith can move not only mountains but God’s ‘decisions’ too.

Jesus provokes not only the woman. It is also a question on our various religious practises.
Are we taken by the belief that we are saved or we can influence God with some ‘tricks’ or ‘faithless-praises’ alone?
Then it is time to correct our ways and practises.
May God give us enough power to concentrate on important spiritual matters than external matters! Amen.
-
Fr Thomas Kalathil

Sermon thoughts – 19th Sunday in Ordinary time – A - Matthew 14, 22-33

It is a rare picture that we see today in the Gospel.
Often it is so: if Jesus prays "alone" the disciples too remain in its vicinity. But tonight, Jesus is alone, completely alone.
And the disciples are on the way to the other shore.

Usually Peter expresses something in such situations. Today he remains still – in the first Part of the gospel.

Actually this is not a "problem" for Jesus, then he is in prayer and he is keeping better. He feels stronger.
On the other side, the disciples, who have benefited from the miracle and want to rest, are in danger.
Their boat was tossed about by the waves.
The darkness around them, the wind: these were actually nothing new for these experienced fishermen from Galilee. Nevertheless, they are frightened.
During the fourth Watch of the Night- which is between 3 and 6 O’ clock in the morning - the disciples had to fight with the sea.
It's interesting: the disciples who longed for the rest in the night could not come to rest ...
They were worried about losing: their night rest and the 12 baskets full of bread in the boat - which is actually in excess.
We can find such lost and frightened people around our lives.
This is something we have learned before few weeks - in the last days in July: the famous singer Amy Winehouse (27 years) was found dead in her apartment. Cause of death is unclear. It is speculated that the use of excess dose of drugs and alcohol destroyed her life. She was so successful and famous in a short time. But that brought her no happiness.

There are certain similarities between the disciples (first part of the Gospel) and people like the singer Amy Winehouse. Then they claim they have everything - so even in abundance - but the life boat is still circling in the lake of our distress and dissatisfaction, anxiety and so on ...

The disciples are inside the chaos: they do not even think about Jesus.
Even then Jesus comes to them. Jesus sees their need.
That is the beauty of our God: that is the comfort we gain from our faith:
A God who comes to us to solve our issues- he is the Good Shepherd.
The disciples are confused. They perceive Jesus as a ghost.
Yes, fear and bitterness in our eyes can prevent our sight. Or it can give a totally wrong picture. Many may lose their faith in God - and trust between human. We doubt, if the help is a real one for me or it is a trap.

Jesus says: "Have faith" - Jesus strengthen them always with this thought – have confidence- don’t fear- he repeats this even after his resurrection. Presence of God is not something to be feared.
Trust in God and trust in people will help one to overcome fear and weakness. Those who act out of fear, is bound and not free.
Jesus wants to free his disciples.

Peter tries to restore the losing faith / confidence in his way, even if he does not quite manage it well.
Or he wanted to examine whether it was really Jesus?
Or he wanted to be equal to the "wonderful" Jesus?
In any case, Jesus criticized their loss of faith and called Peter - "You, of little faith." This qualification applies to everyone.

History repeats in our lives with different properties.
We are often on the way: the boat - our life - is often crowded and accumulated. Often we are tired and weary. The happy moments may darken our eyes and view.
The most important one- God - remains distant - alone on the mountain - in our churches - and in our prayer rooms. Many forget to thank God.
The wind of helplessness reminds us that we need help.

Jesus tells us it is still not too late. He expects “only one word of SOS”.
Each time he will come to save us.
We just need the confidence, faith in him.

The Gospel ends with wonder and praise.
The disciples find their faith again - their Son of God;
they give Jesus his rightful place.

Well, what we have in our life-boat? - Excess earnings and concerns?
Or the All-Regulating presence of God?
Let us pray for his constant companionship. God bless us all. Amen!
-
Fr Thomas Kalathil

Sermon thoughts- 18th Sunday in Ordinary time - A - Matthew 14, 13-21

The context of the Gospel is clear:
Jesus hears about the death of John the Baptist.
In this situation, Jesus seeks solitude - he does not flee in fear but he needs time to prepare for his Mission. Then he knew that his time has come.
Yes, he needs now is peace and reflection ...

He undertakes this mission self-evidently; Jesus was so in many times.
He was so motivated in helping people, healing the sick, in speaking to them, in sharing meals... This self-evident style is seen in today's Gospel Passage. This self-evident nature is also required from his disciples - including us.

Jesus could of course avoid this unpleasant situation, if he had said, “I currently have no time, I must now take care of my job. I need time for myself ..." But he does not do it. In everything he sees and fulfils the will of God ...

Jesus sought his rest... But he saw the desperate people around him.
They called for help. Of course ... Jesus had "compassion" ...
He sees these people are thirsty and hungry.
As Isaiah indicates, what these people bought so far didn’t satiate their hunger and thirst.

After the judicial murder of John the Baptist, people go after him. John, the prophet is murdered, now Jesus is here and he remains their only hope.

Only Jesus sees their spiritual and physical hunger and thirst exactly.
So he taught and healed them ... It reduced their mental loads a little...
Then occurs the other problem, namely hunger of the body.
Now Jesus asks his disciples to solve it.
The disciples represent normal people: they symbolize the helplessness ... They wish to send these people back home. Through this they can achieve two goals:
1. they do not need to take care of the food issue;
2. Jesus and the disciples can take rest.
Jesus is not returning them or asking them to go to another person.
He has compassion for them and asked his disciples. “give them some food yourselves“.
As the Evangelist tells us, Jesus knew that his disciples had 'something' to share. “Five loaves and two fish are all we have here “. It was their food for the evening. If they dare to share it, even Jesus gets no bread in the evening.

But Jesus does not care about his own hunger and food. He wants that it is shared. Jesus is giving an example for his disciples and to us:
First, he shares his private time for others, he now shares his dinner.
In the Love and through the heavenly Blessings, the Time and the Bread turns to consolation and Food for many.

What happens at the end?
There is more bread than in the beginning. 12 baskets full of bread...
Not only the people are happy but the disciples too.
They learned some lessons too in this evening:

The apostles will not consider the “bread” as their bread only.
This is the "bread of blessings" and it is for the people of God.
The apostle learn again:
they have to share everything in the future.
It's not the quantity but the love of God and trust in the divine are important. Later we see that they shared "the bread of blessing, not only in Israel but also throughout the world. As the Eucharist - and as self-sharing breads!

They learn a new theory:
to give means to receive. And it is repeated…
Possessing may give joy to few people: but sharing can give greater joy...

Jesus shared his time, his bread and his life for others. Now everyone is glad. People are happy, the disciples are also happy. So Jesus sends the people back; his disciples will go to the other side ...
Now Jesus can turn to prayer in peace and gratitude.

Worship is perfect when we see the plight of the people and serve them and become one with God. Prayer and action, yes both should happen; both are important. Then the joy is perfect. Let us move to this perfection of the Heavens. Amen!
-
Fr Thomas Kalathil

Sermon Thoughts – 17th Sunday in Ordinary Time – A - Mt 13, 44-52

“Give everything, do everything to attain the Aim”.
I had this impression when I saw the women's soccer finals a week ago in TV, where Japan, “the small team” had won against the powerful team of United States. It was a fight to the end ...

By observing athletes, artists, researchers and scientists; we get this impression at large.
To achieve a goal you need a start and an end and a continuous work in between. The Modern psychology teaches that it must happen after a ‘success recipe’: a recipe with clear instructions is necessary.

It is just as we cook after a recipe. The first attempt must not succeed very well. But targeted - repetition can improve it lead us to achieve the goal.

Search for the kingdom of heaven needs a ‘success recipe’ with certain frames. The three different parables tell us so:

If you are looking tirelessly you will find the treasure.
Then not every one finds a treasure. A searching mind is preferred.

To distinguish a precious gem from other stones, one needs talent.
This talent is not inborn, but it is achieved after years of practice and learning. Luck and persistence are not enough for it.

Fish do not come into the net automatically.
Behind every successful catch there will be a story of long hours of hard work.

Success is no luck. It may not fall from the heavens. May be it is good for films and books. In reality it is a rare thing.


To reach heaven you need perseverance and diligence.
And more over real spiritual power.



There lived a Francis of Assisi, few centuries ago: he had everything - wealth and fame - as the son of a wealthy father;
But he decided to be poor for the kingdom of God, - to call God, ‘father’.

There lived a Mother Teresa in the streets of Calcutta; she renounced her better living chances to serve the poor and sick children in India.

There are certainly many people in our time, perhaps little known in the media or through people.

That's why we experience the church today in our world.
We feel in the church, the silent and uninterrupted work of such people.
And Jesus, his church needs such people to foster His kingdom and to proclaim and live His Word.

At the end of the Gospel, we hear a warning:
There will be a separation and a judgment between the good and the bad.
The ‘small and unimportant’ fishes represent less important dealings from our side. Finally only the most important works will be counted.

Jesus wants only to motivate us; to engage in possible good works.
One, who loses his opportunities in life, has to be sad at the end.
Then he may get that chance never again.

The Gospel invites us all to engage in ‘search’: go looking for the most important. Live the kingdom of heaven-oriented.

“Have a goal for your whole life, a goal for one section of your life, a goal for a shorter period and a goal for the year; a goal for every month, a goal for every week, a goal for every day, a goal for every hour and for every minute, and sacrifice the lesser goal to the greater” Leo Tolstoy formed such a rule of Happiness as he was 18 years.

I wish joy and happiness about the kingdom of heaven.
God bless us all. Amen!

-

Fr Thomas Kalathil

Sermon thoughts – 16th Sunday in Ordinary Time A - Matthew 13, 24-43

Today we have heard three different parables about the kingdom of heaven.
The first one was about Good seeds and weeds that grow together in one field; the second one is on the mustard seed that grows as a big tree and the last one was on yeast that was mixed with wheat flour.

Even they report different things, all of these parables have
one thing in common.
They convey an important message:
That's about the necessity of time and patience to recognize God and his secrets.

Every day we must make several decisions in our lives.
There are moments where we have to judge.
Some of them must be made quickly.
Some of them need time and reasoning.

Jesus will be telling us today:
We cannot take such rash decisions on the kingdom of God and our faith:
He says, one needs time and patience in growing faith.

Jesus also criticizes our nature of questioning.
Do we have enough patience with some our choices?
Do we leave time for ourselves and also to others?

Exactly, what we need are the time and patience.
We need them to understand God's word and our fellow beings.

Parables have a "hidden or secret nature”. They may not express everything. Jesus is also hiding some important messages in his messages through his parables.
It is not completely hidden.
Everyone who has the desire to search for its meaning will find an explanation.

Just as the disciples came to Jesus and asked, we too should look for the meaning of the word of God.
For that we must have time and patience.
Jesus tells us the kingdom of heaven is a mystery and it needs time to grow:
Just as the good seeds needed time till their harvest;
just as the mustard seed needs time to grow as a big tree;
just as the yeast needs time to work in the flour.

God and his secrets are revealed for them who thirst and hunger for it.
The disciples of Jesus are an example for us.
They show their hunger and thirst after God's secret:
They could approach the `inner '` hidden' meaning God with their deep faith.
Through that they show us they were in the correct path in following Jesus.

God is revealed to those who search for him with deep faith and patience.
There is no change for this basic-attitude.

“Whoever has ears ought to hear”:
It means he who gives more attention to God,
who has an inner ear “tuned” for the “frequency of God”,
who listens to the voice of God in patience will enter in to His secrets ...

God is different in judging: We tend to judge by our experience fast.
But God is not fast in His decisions.
He gives us a chance ...
He has time and patience with us:
How long is the time, how long we are “tolerated” are “mystery”.

Therefore let us make use of the “gifted time” the present NOW.
Let us long for the voice of God, listen and follow him.
That will only benefit us.
That's what we try to learn repeatedly in this community.
May God bless us all in this growth. Amen!
-
Fr Thomas Kalathil

Sermon Thoughts -15th Sunday in Ordinary Time - A - Mt 13, 1-23

We have some experience in this cultivation and farming.

Some of us sitting here in our church may be farmers.

At least we have some experience from our gardens.

We know a hundredfold harvest is rare incident.

One who gets back hundred percent is lucky.

Yes, it is a ‘gamble’ - between nature and our work.

God is powerful than humans. It needs no discussion.

God himself is working in our proclamation.

Therefore, the word of God should successfully bring hundred times.

But just as in our field or garden,

our ‘work of faith’ brings not such a success.

Furthermore we are deeply disappointed.

Yes, it is also ‘gamble’ - between our faith / human nature and God's spirit.

Even our Lord Jesus hadn’t a hundred-fold harvest.

He was very disappointed - in our language - against his own people, because his people were not willing to believe in him and in his work.

They witnessed his works with 30 and 60 fold returns.

Jesus’ behaviour is a guide for all of us in our lives.

Life may not bring 100% success. We can work for it. But it must not be the result. There may often situations that we do not succeed as we calculate it.

But one need not be disappointed; says Jesus.

Our churches and religious services may be poorly attended and evaluated. Religious values can be matter for nothing.

Jesus says, it is so... but do not be disappointed. Do not be sad.

Then success is not a name of God.

Success is perhaps the measure of the world.

In faith, it must not always be so.

Yes it is a very different kind of success criteria:

Success, for Jesus has nothing to do with the quantity, quality is important.

These few grains, which make 30 or 60 percent results may replace some thing and balance what has not worked out.

We are those grains.

We know we are not perfect in faith.

But that is not to be shamed.

Each day God offers us the opportunity to grow in our faith.

This means that we - who are here / have faith in God, have got a responsibility:

then we should bear Credible-fruits ...

We should manifest God in the world.

This will make our ‘fields’ slowly fruitful.

It does not happen overnight.

We need to work ever again.

Growing weeds must be removed.

Anything that prevents the growth of the word has no place there.

This should happen in the church, in our community life.

We know the duty of every Christian is to ‘represent God’.

Each or any person baptized has to do his or her part.

Priests and bishops are only to accompany our faith.

Our life itself should witness to the Word / God's kingdom.

People who are watching us and should be able to ‘see and feel the Christ in us’. This is not easy.

Let us work Grateful and happy to fulfil our mission.

Targeted work will certainly lead to better harvest.

I wish us all strength and insight to witness God in our Christian life and to contribute our part to spread the kingdom of God. God bless us. Amen!

-

Fr Thomas Kalathil

Sermon thoughts – 14th Sunday – A - Mt 11, 25-30

Jesus had flops at his home town. He did so many miracles for his people. Nevertheless, he was not taken seriously. This is the background of today's gospel.

But his words confirm that he was not affected.

We come across with 2 parts in today's Gospel.

First we see Jesus who praises and thanks God the Father in Heaven:

"I praise you, Father ..."

Because Jesus found no reason to complain God because he experienced no success in his mission; or because he had no ‘wise and prudent’ disciples.

He does everything with gratitude and praise.

He tells us, life must go on.

There may be ups and downs in our lives. But prudent is the one who leads his life courageously.

In the second part, we feel a ‘hidden invitation’. " All things have been handed over to me by my Father ".

Jesus slowly reveals the secrets of his God-relationship.

Jesus said, without saying a word, ‘come and stay with me ... and I will reveal the secrets of the Heavens...’

And here is a secret:

“For my yoke is easy, and my burden light.“

Jesus tried to convince the disciples

that his ways are not that difficult as they imagine.

Sure, he expects a suitable life from us.

To experience God one need certain qualifications:

Trust in God and humility are necessary for it.

Jesus had the best team with these properties.

They were ready for anything.

They were weak and humble, but strong in faith in God.

For others, his disciples were only fishermen, poor, sinners and excluded.

But he does not take into account of them.

Jesus sees everything positive.

Humility is not a weakness itself for him.

There reflects the selflessness of a person.

Because when you're weak, you need other people;

then you are in need of God.

That makes the life grow together.

In this sense, humility is strength in itself.

Therefore, these disciples, these poor fishermen are enrichment and strength to Jesus.

His ways and teachings are hard to digest for many-not only at that time,

but at present too. But those who survives, with God's help and support, it is so simple and easy.

My dear friends,

we're learning all these lessons in the community, here in the church,

but we practice it at large outside the church e.g. in the family.

Jesus tells us we can avoid many of our conflicts,

when we humbly engage and accept or listen to others.

Jesus shows us this example through his life.

He turned his ‘disadvantages’ to the ‘advantage’.

Let us trust in God in humility, recognize and thank and praise him.

In the family, in the church and everywhere ...

Life will then be successful. Then we can live happily.

May God bless us all. Amen!

-

Fr Thomas Kalathil

Sermon thoughts – 13th Sunday JK A – (Mt 10, 37-42)

There is a saying in English:
"Virtue stands in the middle":
This tells us, Extremes are not that good.
Especially when it is related to faith in God and religious beliefs, we will stick on to this principle.

We avoid radical believers in our time.
Many have some sort of anxiety about such radical religious groups.
It is not only against Islam.
But we, especially Catholics are afraid of some Christian sects with radical arguments.
We keep often distance from these people, because these people are fanatics for us.

Many find that Christianity has almost lost its face.
There is much indifference among the faithful.
We Christians have leveled out the rough edges of our faith.
Everything, from the Christian life to the church, is strictly regulated, so you can not go wrong. God and worship are "boring" subjects for many.
Many avoid or unwilling listen to texts as we have heard in the Gospel.
Strange enough, this is most in common against God and religion.
If we need to achieve a goal in our live,
then we say that we have to work hard.
When it is concerning our faith, then we look for our comfort and amenities.
Why this difference?

I think we have some shyness towards our faith.
We are looking for compromises.
On the contrary other groups, sects or other movements try to represent their faith in strong ways.

Now I do not mean that we take the Gospel literally, and one should live up to one. What I mean is to try to understand the text, and to draw implications for our lives from our faith.

We cannot understand our faith and encounter with God as comfortable, harmless pacification of religious feelings.
Where people get involved with God happens something; happens some changes. God gives his people a new sense of life. He challenges us to renew.
Many that was important before, has a different role now, many that was previously so solid, is now in motion.
Belief in God is really not a boring time. It is only boring if we do not live it and discover it new. Seek God and find him has risks.
If we realize it our faith is adventurous, intense and exciting, sometimes painful and challenging.
It contains the cross that we have to carry daily.
But that is not in vain, it brings hope, confidence, fulfillment and joy.

Let us search and find the joy and excitement of our faith it.
God bless us all this. Amen!
-
Fr Thomas Kalathil

Sermon Thoughts - 12th Sunday - JK A-Mt 10, 26-33

Everyone has need for protection and recognition.

And a correct recognition is often more valuable than money or anything else: Then each of us wants to hear, "You're good," or "you do it well."

Jesus behaves like someone who knows of this psychology:

“You are of more value than many sparrows." He appreciates the people above all creatures. He recognizes people.

There were many ‘Excluded’ in his acquaintance and also as disciples: fishermen, tax collectors, Pharisees, rich and poor, women and children, sick and healthy, weak and strong-people from every field were around him.

Because, Jesus came to save such people.

He was in search of sinners and the weak.

His goal was to free these people from their miserable situations.

Jesus promises three-fold protection: first by him, then through the Heavenly Father, then the protection of the Heaven.

We can experience in the church all these protections.

There are many opportunities for people to come closer to God.

To "renounce the old Man".

We are his people. This is a great recognition.

And we are part of its divine Mission.

We share all these in the sacraments and in the communion.

The truth is, few are interested in such offers.

And we cannot convince and attain many people with our actions to God and to the church.

What's wrong in our mission?

Are we not ‘speaking’ the language of the affected- The world?

Where we fail in our communication?

How we recognize our fellow man?

Can People come to us and experience this divine protection?

Are our churches and religion open for the weak and sinners?

Or is it just an exclusive community of "saints" and "hypocrites"?

So many questions are open for us in the church and in the pastoral activities.

God and religion should certainly offer protection and recognition.

But many people are least convinced and concerned of it.

Some do not need a "religious protection" and God at all.

For them the secular insurances are enough...

I think we need renewal:

We need to offer people the most important and most necessary.

Above all, our experience of God must be a lesson for others.

This is most important, in preaching Jesus.

Jesus could do it fairly, because he knew his people.

He felt their needs.

We Christians do have the same job in a new way.

We must be more and more close to people and be conscious to their needs.

We must show them that they are valuable to God.

Let us create an atmosphere that they find God’s recognition in their lives.

Let us come to our God without fear and bear witness to him.

God bless us and strengthen us all. Amen!

-

Fr Thomas Kalathil

Sermon Thoughts - The Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ (Corpus Christi) - JK - A

Life - you always hear about this issue.
You always have new and interesting life goals.

We humans try to prolong our lives as much as possible. Medicine, sports, holidays, healthy diet are some ways for it.

Some famous people want to live again.
Thus, they preserve their DNA and body for modern scientific studies.
We also hear a lot about stem cell researches in these days.
Yes, we often discuss about LIFE.


The speech about the life by Jesus is also interesting.
Jesus offers living bread.
Hunger and thirst is satiated; he says.
And this food is giving us a life in eternity.
Some of these statements seem to be wrong:
at least our experience confirms it so.

We know our desire for food and drink has no end. It emerges again again.

That means Jesus contradicts the rules of nature?
What does Jesus mean here?
Jesus had a perfect idea and understanding of our world.
Therefore, we consider his statements with some seriousness.

Jesus does not mean our physical hunger and thirst. This is a hunger and thirst for God - for good - for peace - for justice.

This is a hunger and thirst for love, care and humanity.

It was not only experience of the disciples and the Jews but also the woman of Samaria (John 4). Yes, God’s Life is shared for all.

Each one takes part on the Lord's Table receives, together, the same bread. Everyone is and will a part of this bread.
His bread and meal unites all people.
There is no separation such as black and white;
there are no Europeans or Asians before him;
there is no separation in dignity.
The most important thing is the faith and love in God who is Father, Son and Spirit.


We are „the pilgrim church. “
We are in the Exodus / in migration.
Our food is God-given food.
This food is the new Manna of God and it leads us to eternity.
It gives us life.
A life that doesn’t come to an end here on earth.

And for this life we need no chemical preparation.
It requires no sophisticated scientific help.
For this we need not be mummified.

Much more it needs humility, faith and trust in God.

We share everything, including our Ego in the divine Love.
Then it will multiply and will remain forever and ever:
- as Jesus is alive in and with us.
I wish all of us this experience with God. Amen!

-

Fr Thomas Kalathil

Sermon Thoughts – Most Holy Trinity - A

Trinity is a difficult topic in Catholic theology.
In the church history we learn that this theological teaching had led to numerous splits.
The church had to reject a lot of misleading and heretical teachings.

It is really a paradox: then it is all about the unity;
but this theological dispute caused many splits among the faithful.
Really a sad epoch in the Church History...

God was in the beginning- terrifying and symbol of unquestionable power.
He was often very far away from people or People had such an image of God.
We see that at least in the Old Testament and in other religious traditions.
There were some exceptions:
Very few people like Abraham, Isaac, Moses, Jacob, Gideon, David could experience God so near and specially.

In the New Testament, the image will loosen up a bit.
Through the incarnation of Jesus, God gets a human face.
The gift of the Holy Spirit –after the resurrection of Jesus - is a sign that God wants to accompany His people forever.
This was a new era in the religious life of the people:
God reveals himself again and this revelation is a pact of his humanity.
He expresses his unceasing love and longing to humans.

That is, a progressive image of God - gradually experienced by the faithful:
This is a growth of humanity in relationship with God:
This growing presence of God is seen in the Trinity.
This God unites us. He understands us closer as humans.
I can approach him without fear.
I find acceptance by God. Because I am a child of God.


About this love we heard in the Gospel:
"God so loved the world that he gave his only-begotten Son, so that everyone who believes in him might not perish but might have eternal life.”
And this Son has come to save us and not to judge us .

Trinity is, as a whole, the expression of this love of God.
First, it is the unity of God in love:
Unity of the Father and the Son with the Holy Spirit.
Then there is also a love for our humanity:
God shows His eternal presence among us - as Father, Son and Spirit.

There are similar “Trinitarian images” in other religions:
Jupiter, Luno and Minerva in Roman mythology:
Osris, Isis and Horus in Egyptian mythology:
Brahma, Vihnu and Shiva in Hinduism.
But the Christian Trinity is unique in that they are in love one.
You find peace there: you see life in them.

Like some modern theologians think the Trinitarian community is model for a perfect society and the church.

Yes, Trinity is a part of our life and faith. It must be influence our lives.

We hear about the Trinity: we pray often - sometimes consciously and sometimes unconsciously to this trinity:
in the sign of the cross:
“In the name of the father and of the son and of the Holy Spirit".
Also in the celebration of Mass we hear the welcome greeting:
“The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God the Father and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with you all”.
Yet many of our prayers are “Trinitarian”.
Here we feel no theological problems.
Then we are taken by the faith.
We are sure about God's triple protection.

May the simplicity and security – be with us in our faith.
The triune God bless us all abundantly. Amen!
-
Fr Thomas Kalathil

Sermon Thoughts –Pentecost –A- (Joh 20, 19-23)

In today’s readings we hear two various descriptions on the coming of the Holy Spirit.

Apostles received the Holy Spirit directly from Jesus.
We hear that in the Gospel passage of John.

John describes the Pentecostal experience in this way.
It happens during one of his apparitions after the resurrection.

John says “he breathed on them and said to them, "Receive the holy Spirit.” And the disciples receive the Spirit.

We see a corresponding act in the first chapters of the Holy Bible.
“And the Lord God formed man of the slime of the earth: and breathed into his face the breath of life; and man became a living soul.“ (Gen 2, 7)

John is connecting Pentecost as a new creation: it is happening with Jesus’ resurrection and ascension. And the disciples are newly born in the spirit.

They will also proclaim this life– especially through the forgiving of sins.

Even then, the dramatic description in the first reading – in the Acts of Apostles has a meaningful interpretation too. It also symbolizes the depth of the Spirit, which is lacking in the narration of today’s Gospel of John.

Here we have some dramatic narrations and symbols:

Words such as „suddenly”, “noise like a strong driving wind”, “entire house”, “tongues as of fire”, “rest on each one of them”, “began to speak in different tongues”, “ large crowd”, “each one heard them speaking in his own language” are to an extend a style of narration – some theologians are representing this opinion.

- Fire-Tongues show the intensive nature of the Holy Spirit. He works as a fire. He transforms the receiver. It burns the receiver in the Love of God.

- We see that the Fire -Tongue remains on every one.
There is no speciality to Peter or to Mary or to John.

Each one is equal before the Spirit. All are equally “inspired” / “blessed” / “gifted”. But they may bring different fruits according to their nature and skills. The second reading is supporting it.

“There are different kinds of spiritual gifts but the same Spirit;
there are different forms of service but the same Lord;
there are different workings but the same God who produces all of them in everyone.“ (1 Cor 12, 4-6)

- Speaking strange languages can be understood as the anticipation of their mission. It is the anticipation of taking challenges. It is the anticipation of confronting strange and adventurous situations.
But the Spirit of God completes and transforms their work in to positive results.

- Strangers understanding the speech: It is the anticipation of the acceptance of the Gospel of Jesus to strange cultures and nations. Yes, a new creation is starting: Israel, the chosen people of God is no more a specific territory in a particular continent. The new Israel is all over the world. It is transcending. And it is the Holy Spirit who works for it. It is the Holy Spirit who helps the disciples to proclaim and propagate the life and message of Jesus.

Through that people are called to unity. Holy Spirit has power to unite cultures and nations and tongues in the name of Jesus, just as it happened in Jerusalem.

- As we heard in the readings Holy Spirit needs space -“the disciples were gathered together“. As Apostles and Mary remained together in the Upper room – where the Passover Meal – the Eucharist happened- we too need an “Upper room”. “Remaining together” is also important to receive the Spirit of God. It is upper room of prayers and unity. It is taking distance from the matters that may disturb our relation to God;
as the disciples took distance from the past events that happened to their master Jesus. In this upper room of unity and prayers, they put their hope again in the words of Jesus. There is no more fear and uncertainty.

My dear friends,

Our each gathering in the name of Jesus is a call to Pentecost. We are in this “upper room” in this church – together with our community and prayers.

Here we the experience Pentecost of new life. Here we are reborn.
Here we are united as the Children of God. Here we are poured out with the gifts and blessings of Power and Strength in God.

Let us receive the transforming power with open heart –the inbuilt space for God in us. Let it burn us in the Love of God.

Let us speak and act in the Spirit of God.

God bless us all. Amen!

-

Fr Thomas Kalathil

Sermon thoughts – 7th Sunday in Eastertime – Joh 17, 1-11a

We pray often when we are in a special situation where we require some external help.

In the bible we see Jesus many times praying. But this passage is very special. Here he prays for his followers intently. we can say it was a very special situation for Jesus and for his disciples.

Pastor in German can be translated to “Seelsorger“.

“Seele” is soul and “Sorge” is care / concern, worry.

A Pastor is some one who has concern about the souls.

From this point of view, Jesus is really a Pastor.

He shows his concern on his disciples in this passage especially in the last part. Jesus prays for his disciples and it is so ardent.

During my seminary formation I used to visit an old priest and I remember what he told me once:

“a priest who prays for all his faithful will not fail in his service to the Lord and Human.” The example he gave was that of St John Maria Vianney, who spent hours and hours in front of the Blessed Sacrament often alone, praying for his Parishnors. This was asserting: A Pastor needs the Concern and care very much.

We will see here, Jesus is very positive minded in his concern.

He is sure of his almost fulfilled duty.

Jesus could say that he revealed and glorified God to the People.

He did it by proclaiming the Kingdom of God in a new way, inviting weak and sinners to repentance and baptism in the Spirit.

So he can pray; “Glorify your son so that the son may glorify you”.

He is absolute sure that his disciples have accepted him as the Saviour and are following his teachings. He also believes that they will continue his work. We know it was a blind belief of Jesus in his followers. He knew they were not that powerful at this time. But he was sure of their eventual growth in the faith. Jesus’ concern is again visible in these words.

So he prays:

“I pray for them … keep them in your name that you have given me”.

He is concerned as “they are in the world”.

It is such a beautiful moment.

Jesus assures his prayers for his disciples.

It shows another face of this Gospel:

He says pastors too need prayer helps.

Because they are in the world; they are in need.

Prayer is not something reserved for priests and ordained.

Some still think that it is their “business”- But it is not so.

On the contrary they also need the prayer helps;

especially in the modern world.

Jesus prayer is two sided. It is a prayer for the pastors. It is also a prayer for the disciples.

Here with affirms Jesus that, we have to pray each other:

Jesus calls us to be pastors.

We are all uplifted to this spiritual level through our Prayers,

when we are concerned about others.

It shows our real concern about a person or about an intention.

Prayer makes us better people. It says that we need the help and protection of each other as we need God’s Care and Concern.

A community that prays for each other will be the heaven on earth.

Let us enjoy the hours we are together as his community.

Let us pray each other.

Through that we can help others.

It may help us to understand others better.

It may help us to forgive each other.

Let us grow to this heavenly brotherhood in prayers.

Let the Concern of Jesus empower us. Amen!

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Fr Thomas Kalathil