May the Lord give you peace and health in the Holy Spirit.
It is 30th July 2021. We celebrate the memorial of St Peter Chrysologus, bishop and doctor of the Church.
We reflect on Leviticus 23:1, 4-11, 15-16, 27, 34-37 and the Gospel of Matthew 13:54-58.
Life is a celebration when we have a purpose and meaning for our living. A personal rest is the best celebration of individuality to bring out and present ourselves to God. A day of rest is the celebration for the community when we can meet people without neglecting our personal and intimate space with God. The first thing belongs to God whether it is from the land, mind, and body.
We are happy when someone is born. Are we continue to be happy as the person grows up, shines on, and spreads the wings of popularity? At times, we are not that supportive to see people grow and glow in their life even if they are siblings, kith, and kin. It is still worse for the stranger, foreigner and a guest to our family, community, and country. We normally do not appreciate people when they speak out for truth, justice, peace, and the growth of the common good. We shoot the arrows of anger, rage, a calumny on the other person when we are comfortable with their stand in the community.
Whether we like it or not, people grow up in the community. More pressure from every side, so the treasure is formed right inside the person. No condemnation, criticism and backbiting can reduce the goodness of a person, but it shrinks our capacity to glow, grow, give, and heal.
We all know the power of God. Yet, it can become reality in and through faith in Jesus. When we have become familiar with Jesus, we take God for granted in our life.
The feeling of being rejected and ignored is fatally painful. “Jesus said to them, “Prophets are not without honour except in their own country and in their own house.” (Mt.13:57). Life is indeed a celebration when I find joy in the best of others.
May we recognise the presence of Christ in the person of Jesus. God bless you.