SATURDAY, SIXTH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME
Memorial of Saint Kuriakose Elias Chavara, Priest
2 Cor 4:1-2, 5-7; Ps 16: 1-2, 5-8, 11; Mt 9: 35-38
(or) Heb 11: 1-7; Ps 145: 2-5, 10-11; Mk 9: 2-13
GOD IS EVER FAITHFUL
In today’s First Reading, we have one of the first acts and articles of our faith which has a great influence on us. One point to note here is that those who obtain acceptance from God must expect the envy and malice of the world. Those who by faith, walk with God in this sinful world, are pleasing to him. Thus, he will give those marks of his favour and put honour upon them. Without active faith it is impossible to please God – for such faith helps us to walk with God – we cannot come to God unless we believe that he rewards all those who seek him earnestly. Once we find him as our God, we will never regret the pains we underwent in seeking him.
All the readings of the day are full of promises for all those who strive to love God and be faithful to him despite all odds. God honours his faithful and this is what we witness in the Gospel. God honours His son Jesus Christ for being faithful. As Jesus gets transfigured, he gives his three disciples a glimpse of his glory. He promises this same glory to all of us. Jesus assures us that just as his sufferings were temporary, so it will be with all of us. His transfiguration teaches us that as God owns and accepts Jesus as his beloved son, God will accept, and even honour us in Jesus Christ. Thus, we must then own and accept and honour Jesus as our beloved Saviour and give ourselves up to be ruled by him. Then we will witness God’s loving greatness, goodness and grace in our hearts and homes.
Today we celebrate the memorial of Saint Kuriakose Elias Chavara, the first Indian male saint. A man of prayer and intense charity, Kuriakose Chavara lived in close communion with the Lord amidst his several religious and social activities. Let his life be an inspiration for us to take up prayer and charity – the two most important dimensions of every Christian life, especially the Carmelites.
Response: I will bless your name, O Lord, forever.
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