It is 23rd November 2016. We celebrate the memorial of St Columban, Abbot. He is the patron of the Missionary Society of St. Columban. The readings are from Rev. 15:1-4; and the Gospel from Luke 21:12-19. The first reading speaks about the vision of St. John on the completion of the anger of God. The sea of fire symbolises the glory of God and the holiness of God. It is the time of freedom for God’s people from sinful and persecuting world. The images abound similar to the book of Exodos. The martyrs and those who won over the Antichrist stand near the Word of God. These victors of the Lamb sang the song of Moses, the song of victory. It reminds us of our own Baptism, the waters through which we have new life in Christ Jesus. Having won against the slavery of Satan to freedom of being the children of God for eternity, they sing a new song to honour the Lamb, the song of triumph of the justice of God. The song of Moses and the song of the Lamb were sung to show the perfect union between law and love, between the Old Covenant and the New Covenant. In the responsorial we praise, “How great and wonderful are all your works, Lord God almighty.” (Rev.15:3). The Gospel assures that our endurance pays at last. The persecution is bound to come upon those who follow the Lamb of God, Jesus. Let us be courageous to stand up for Christ. Our personal suffering for the Lord is indeed to purify the Church and more particularly ourselves. The mercy of God is like the powerful wind that sweeps all the sins away from us before implanting all that is necessary spiritually. God renews us through the continual assurance of mercy and hope in the Sacraments of salvation. We all need to suffer for Jesus one way or the other. Let us endure it for the Lord. May the Lord grant you peace and courage during our spiritual pain. May you have a good day.