It is 03rd October 2015. We, the Capuchin Franciscans celebrate the Transitus, the final departure of our Seraphic Father Francis of Assisi from this world. The readings are from Bar.4:5-12, 27-29 and the Gospel from Lk.10:17-24. The first reading is a strong reminder for all of us who ask a question: Why all these things happen to us? Baruch asked why the deportation and exile into Babylon happened to Israel. When Israel failed to live upto its name and the call from God, God punished them. The people of Israel were ungrateful and destructive in their spiritual behaviour. They bit the hand that fed them. They ignored God who led them. God’s mercy is present when people are falling into sin. We need to get hold of the opportune time of mercy in order to live. “So now turn back and search for God ten times as hard; for as God brought down those disasters on you, so will God rescue you and give you eternal joy.” (Bar.4:29). The responsorial Psalm prays, “The Lord listens to the needy.” (Ps. 68:34). The Gospel too asks a question: Is your name written in Heaven? “Do not rejoice that the spirits submit to you, but rejoice that your names are written in heaven.” (Lk. 10:20). What do we need to do? We need to deal with our spiritual pride, we need to be more charitable than ever, and to know and love God every moment of our lives. Knowing and loving Christ is the privilege offered to us the believers. Let us begin to practice what we believe. “Blessed are the eyes that see what you see.” (Lk.10:23). May God give you peace.