It is 3rd November 2016. We have the memorial of St. Martin De Porres, a Religious. St. Martín de Porres is the patron saint of interracial harmony, known for his social work, African Americans, Barbers, Hairdressers, Race Relations, and Social Justice. The readings are from the letter of St. Paul to the Philippians 3:3-8; and the Gospel is from Luke 15:1-10. St. Paul expresses his frustration in his ministry and vowed to defend himself against the Judaizers who claimed that circumcision is necessary for salvation opposing to the preaching of St. Paul who believed that faith in Jesus is necessary for salvation. People did not accept St. Paul just because of the way he treated the Christians in the past. His eagerness in knowing and loving Christ gave him the courage to give up those things that were dear to his heart. The authentic encounter with Jesus always opens up a new avenue of growth and maturity to view things differently. “I regard everything as loss because of the surpassing value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord.” (Phil.3:8). What and who do we value in our lives over the value of knowing Christ? The responsorial Psalm prays, “Let the hearts that seek the Lord rejoice.” (Ps.104:3). The Gospel invites us to find the lost. Jesus expresses His concern and desire to find the lost. God grieves when one of us is lost to the tactics of the Satan. Today’s gospel passage brings out the tenderness mercy of God in searching for sinners and forgiving them after their repentance. God’s love is not tired of searching for the lost human soul. If anyone of us feel that we are far from God, let us not despair. God is searching for us because we so precious in the eyes of God no matter how much we have messed up our lives. Our churches and the small Christian communities need to engage in activities going after those who are lost by the tsunamis of life. There must be a celebration for those who are found the way back to the mother church. As God and heaven are happy about the repentant persons, let us share the same sentiments in our churches too. Let us value you one another’s faith and relationships. Have a good day.