2 Minutes with the Lord: Recent Episodes
DOMINIC VEIGAS
Mark 7: 31-37
Jesus left the district of Tyre
and went by way of Sidon to the Sea of Galilee,
into the district of the Decapolis.
And people brought to him a deaf man who had a speech impediment
and begged him to lay his hand on him.
He took him off by himself away from the crowd.
He put his finger into the man's ears
and, spitting, touched his tongue;...................................
Mark 7: 14-23
Jesus summoned the crowd again and said to them,
“Hear me, all of you, and understand.
Nothing that enters one from outside can defile that person;
but the things that come out from within are what defile.”
When he got home away from the crowd
his disciples questioned him about the parable..........
Jesus summoned the crowd again and said to them,
“Hear me, all of you, and understand.
Nothing that enters one from outside can defile that person;
but the things that come out from within are what defile.”
When he got home away from the crowd
his disciples questioned him about the parable.
He said to them,
“Are even you likewise without understanding?
Do you not realize that everything
that goes into a person from outside cannot defile,
since it enters not the heart but the stomach
and passes out into the latrine?”
(Thus he declared all foods clean.)
“But what comes out of the man, that is what defiles him.
From within the man, from his heart,
come evil thoughts, unchastity, theft, murder,
adultery, greed, malice, deceit,
licentiousness, envy, blasphemy, arrogance, folly.
All these evils come from within and they defile.”
Mk 7:1-13
When the Pharisees with some scribes who had come from Jerusalem
gathered around Jesus,
they observed that some of his disciples ate their meals
with unclean, that is, unwashed, hands.
Mark 6:53-56
After making the crossing to the other side of the sea,
Jesus and his disciples came to land at Gennesaret
and tied up there.........
Gospel Mark 1:29-39
A reading from the Holy Gospel according to Mark
On leaving the synagogue
Jesus entered the house of Simon and Andrew with James and John.
Simon's mother-in-law lay sick with a fever.
They immediately told him about her.
He approached, grasped her hand, and helped her up.
Then the fever left her and she waited on them......
Third February 2024.
A reading from the Holy Gospel according to Mark.
The Apostles gathered together with Jesus
and reported all they had done and taught.
He said to them,
“Come away by yourselves to a deserted place and rest a while.”
People were coming and going in great numbers,
and they had no opportunity even to eat.
So they went off in the boat by themselves to a deserted place.
People saw them leaving and many came to know about it.
They hastened there on foot from all the towns
and arrived at the place before them.
When Jesus disembarked and saw the vast crowd,
his heart was moved with pity for them,
for they were like sheep without a shepherd;
and he began to teach them many things.
The Gospel of the Lord.
A reading from the Holy Gospel according to Luke.
When the days were completed for their purification according to the law of Moses, Mary and Joseph took Jesus up to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord, just as it is written in the law of the Lord, Every male that opens the womb shall be consecrated to the Lord, and to offer the sacrifice of a pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons, in accordance with the dictate in the law of the Lord. Now there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon. This man was righteous and devout, awaiting the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he should not see death before he had seen the Christ of the Lord. He came in the Spirit into the temple; and when the parents brought in the child Jesus to perform the custom of the law in regard to him, he took him into his arms and blessed God, saying: “Now, Master, you may let your servant go in peace, according to your word, for my eyes have seen your salvation, which you prepared in the sight of all the peoples: a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and glory for your people Israel.” The child’s father and mother were amazed at what was said about him and Simeon blessed them and said to Mary his mother, “Behold, this child is destined for the fall and rise of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be contradicted so that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.” There was also a prophetess, Anna, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was advanced in years, having lived seven years with her husband after her marriage, and then as a widow until she was eighty-four. She never left the temple, but worshiped night and day with fasting and prayer. And coming forward at that very time, she gave thanks to God and spoke about the child to all who were awaiting the redemption of Jerusalem. When they had fulfilled all the prescriptions of the law of the Lord, they returned to Galilee, to their own town of Nazareth. The child grew and became strong, filled with wisdom; and the favor of God was upon him.
The Gospel of the Lord
A reading from the Holy Gospel according to Mark.
Jesus summoned the Twelve and began to send them out two by two and gave them authority over unclean spirits. He instructed them to take nothing for the journey but a walking stick – no food, no sack, no money in their belts. They were, however, to wear sandals but not a second tunic. He said to them, “Wherever you enter a house, stay there until you leave from there. Whatever place does not welcome you or listen to you, leave there and shake the dust off your feet in testimony against them.” So they went off and preached repentance. The Twelve drove out many demons, and they anointed with oil many who were sick and cured them.
The Gospel of the Lord
Gospel 6:1-6Jesus departed from there and came to his native place,
accompanied by his disciples.
When the sabbath came he began to teach in the synagogue,
and many who heard him were astonished.
They said, “Where did this man get all this?
What kind of wisdom has been given him?
What mighty deeds are wrought by his hands!
Is he not the carpenter, the son of Mary,
and the brother of James and Joseph and Judas and Simon?
And are not his sisters here with us?”
And they took offense at him.
Jesus said to them,
“A prophet is not without honor except in his native place
and among his own kin and in his own house.”
So he was not able to perform any mighty deed there,
apart from curing a few sick people by laying his hands on them.
He was amazed at their lack of faith.
Gospel 5:21-43When Jesus had crossed again in the boat
to the other side,
a large crowd gathered around him, and he stayed close to the sea.
One of the synagogue officials, named Jairus, came forward.
Seeing him he fell at his feet and pleaded earnestly with him, saying,
"My daughter is at the point of death.
Please, come lay your hands on her
that she may get well and live."
He went off with him
and a large crowd followed him.
There was a woman afflicted with hemorrhages for twelve years.
She had suffered greatly at the hands of many doctors
and had spent all that she had.
Yet she was not helped but only grew worse.
She had heard about Jesus and came up behind him in the crowd
and touched his cloak.
She said, "If I but touch his clothes, I shall be cured."
Immediately her flow of blood dried up.
She felt in her body that she was healed of her affliction.
Jesus, aware at once that power had gone out from him,
turned around in the crowd and asked, "Who has touched my clothes?"
But his disciples said to him,
"You see how the crowd is pressing upon you,
and yet you ask, Who touched me?"
And he looked around to see who had done it.
The woman, realizing what had happened to her,
approached in fear and trembling.
She fell down before Jesus and told him the whole truth.
He said to her, "Daughter, your faith has saved you.
Go in peace and be cured of your affliction."
While he was still speaking,
people from the synagogue official's house arrived and said,
"Your daughter has died; why trouble the teacher any longer?"
Disregarding the message that was reported,
Jesus said to the synagogue official,
"Do not be afraid; just have faith."
He did not allow anyone to accompany him inside
except Peter, James, and John, the brother of James.
When they arrived at the house of the synagogue official,
he caught sight of a commotion,
people weeping and wailing loudly.
So he went in and said to them,
"Why this commotion and weeping?
The child is not dead but asleep."
And they ridiculed him.
Then he put them all out.
He took along the child's father and mother
and those who were with him
and entered the room where the child was.
He took the child by the hand and said to her, "Talitha koum,"
which means, "Little girl, I say to you, arise!"
The girl, a child of twelve, arose immediately and walked around.
At that they were utterly astounded.
He gave strict orders that no one should know this
and said that she should be given something to eat.
Isaiah 55:10-11
Psalm 64:10,10-11,12-13,13-14
Romans 8:18-23
Matthew 13:1-23
Hello friends in Jesus welcome to the show 2 Minutes with the Lord.
Jesus gives the parable of the sower who went out to sow. Some seeds fell on the path birds came and ate them up. Some fell on the rocky ground which had no much soil. They sprang up quickly since they had no depth of soil. But when they rose up they were scorched because they had no root. They withered away. The seeds that fell among the thorns were choked by the thorns. The seeds in the good soil brought forth yield that is hundred fold, sixty and thirty.
This parable can be applied to our life. All the different types of ground can be found in our life.
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The path : This area of our life can be the places where we do not understand ourselves. We try our best to seek help but there are external factors that disturb and challenge us
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The rocky ground. This area of our life can be the places which we have blocked others from entering into it. We are joyful to have a rocky ground but do not want others to know the depth of it. We cannot withstand persecution and trouble
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The thorns: We are choked in this place and feel suffocated. This area of our life can be painful and suffering areas of our life that need healing and forgiveness.
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The good soil: This area of our life is the production house where we yield a good harvest.
All these four areas of life can be found in each one of us. We have to understand our life. What sort of ground I am sowing the seed?
As Christians, our life becomes meaningful when we yield a good harvest. Making our lives bountiful with grace coming from God. We have to work our our life in a manner that we grow like the seed that has potential to grow. We have to invest in areas of life that have good soil.
Lord make me yield abundant fruit in your name Amen.
Isaiah 6:1-8
Psalm 92:1,1-2,5
Matthew 10:24-33
Hello friends in Jesus welcome to the show 2 Minutes with the Lord.
The statement of Jesus - A disciple is not above the teacher makes a striking claim in our minds. It is worth understanding this statement. Can a disciple be greater than the teacher?
What is your understanding? If we understand the history of Jesus time. A teacher would train the disciple in certain things. The source of teaching was the teacher. So the disciple would have to follow the teachings taught by the teacher.
The disciple would be recognized by the teacher who taught him and this recognition would also brings laurels to the disciple. It was an honor to be trained under certain reputed teachers.
Now Jesus wanted his disciples to imitate him. He was teaching them the commandment of love. The life of Jesus was perfect and holy. The disciples had to learn a lot from Jesus.
Jesus is our teacher too... Can we become like Him?
Our teacher calls us to acknowledge him before others. He makes us aware of the upcoming persecutions. He assures us to be courageous.
Today we also celebrate the feast of St. Benedict, a great teacher honored as the father of western monasticism. He followed Jesus throughout his life. He gave to the world a path of monastic life in the footsteps of Jesus. Let us pray through his intercession.
Lord Jesus, my teacher train me that I may follow your footsteps, Amen.
Hosea 14:2-9
Psalm 30: 3-4,8-9, 12-13, 14,17
Matthew 10:16-23
Hello friends in Jesus welcome to the show 2 Minutes with the Lord.
Jesus takes the blame upon him for the persecution caused to the believers. He gives a clear cut situation of the suffering people. Persecutions are bound to come if one is faithful to Jesus Christ.
The sending of the apostles to different parts of the country to preach the good news was the part of Jesus mission to build the kingdom. Many people receive the good news in faith. The faith experience leads a person to accept Jesus as the Saviour.
After accepting Jesus in one's life there can be because Jesus says, brother will betray brother to death, children will rise against the parents and so on. Hardships come along in our faith journey.
Jesus offers a solution. He says, The one who endures till the end will be saved. Endurance is the ability to resist or withstand in tough situations. It can be trouble, trials and temptations etc.
We need the Holy Spirit to be with us to help us cope with such situations. Jesus gives us the Spirit so that we can overcome persecutions.
As Christians, we have to be faithful in our calling. Discern the will of God in our life. Jesus is ever present with us to guide us.
Lord open my eyes to your teachings Amen .
Hosea 11:1-4, 8-9
Psalm 79: 2-3, 15-16
Matthew 10:7-15
Hello friends in Jesus welcome to the show 2 Minutes with the Lord.
Jesus instructs his apostles in the Gospel. They attentively listen to the teachings of Jesus before being sent out. The teachings of Jesus may sound very radical in nature. Sometimes the apostles must have had the idea of giving up on the mission.
The feeling of giving up on a certain task often comes across in our mind. When we face obstacles in life and feel helpless. We are unable to face problems and difficulties. Jesus clearly instructs the apostles we shall reflect on it.
The healing ministry of the apostles given by Jesus. Jesus wants his apostles to heal and care for the sick.
The social ministry of the apostles requires selfless service and simple lifestyle. He warns his disciples to avoid expensive possessions for oneself.
The blessing ministry of the apostles. The apostles will receive a lot of goodwill from the people. The apostles need to reciprocate this goodwill with blessings of peace.
What instructions do we wish to receive from Jesus?
As Christians, we have a clarion call to be generous towards humanity and creation. We should not accumulate enormous wealth for ourselves. A sense of hospitality with people around us. It is necessary that we make people feel comfortable in our presence.
Let us listen to the instructions of Jesus for our life. This is the missionary mandate that Jesus gives to us as apostles.
Lord make me an apostle of peace Amen.
Hosea 10:1-3, 7-8, 12
Psalm 104:2-3, 4-5, 6-7
Matthew 10:1-7
Hello friends in Jesus, Welcome to the show 2 Minutes with the Lord
The selection process of the twelve apostles was a discerning task for Jesus. He gives them authority over unclean spirits, to cast them and to cure every disease and sickness.
Who are the apostles? Jesus selects 12 men for whom he had a particular purpose. Apostles refers to people who are sent for a mission. The apostles came from every walk of life.
The background check of these men reveal their lifestyle, identity and social status in the society. Some were fishermen or into the fishing business. One was a tax collector and one was a zealot, revolutionary. A few others into petty profession.
What did Jesus see in these men?
He saw an enormous potential and commitment to proclaim the good news. He could visualize the unwavering faith, commendable hard work and fearless love for Jesus. They had a tremendous dedication towards carrying out the mission of Jesus given by the Father.
Jesus trained them to go out and proclaim the good news. Jesus wanted them to be part of the kingdom. A more important task was to experience the realities of the world.
As Christians, we are the present day apostles sent out on a mission to proclaim Jesus to the world. Our commitment needs to be 100 percent. Jesus says to us, Go and proclaim the good news. Are we ready?
Lord choose me to be your faithful disciple Amen
Hosea 8:4-7, 11-13
Psalm 113b: 3-4, 5-6, 7-8, 9-10
Matthew 9:32-38
Hello friends in Jesus, You are with me on 2 Minutes with the Lord
The prophet Hosea speaks of the situation of Israel. Lord does not accept the sinful ways of people. There are consequences to the actions that we perform. Hosea warns the people to stop unholy ways and return to the Lord.
The Gospel brings out two concepts that can help us understand the ministry of Jesus.
Firstly the intention: What does intention mean? It is the act or fact of intending something, a determination to do a specific thing in a specific manner.
Now Jesus heals a dumb man and thereafter goes on proclaiming the good news, healing the sick, compassion for the needy, suffering and sick. He felt oneness with the suffering. A good intention to care for them.
Second the Interpretation
How do the Pharisees interpret this whole act of Jesus? They say, by the ruler of the demons he casts out demons. What is interpretation? The meaning of interpretation can be, it is an act or way of explaining or an expression of person’s view.
The intention of Jesus and the interpretation of the Pharisees. Which of this is genuine? My dear friends, it happens all the time in our life. Our intention may be good but what is the interpretation of the people around us, we have to work for truth and keep building God’s kingdom.
Jesus wants us as labourers for his harvest. Let us keep aside the interpretation and work with good intention like Jesus for Jesus.
Lord instruct me and lead me in your path Amen.
Hosea 2:16, 17-18, 21-22
Psalm 144: 2-3, 4-5, 6-7, 8-9
Matthew 9:18-26
Hello friends in Jesus, You are with me on 2 Minutes with the Lord
Miracles performed by Jesus require faith from the part of the receiver. We have the leader of the synagogue coming to Jesus and asking to restore his daughter to life. He has an openness to share his difficulty before Jesus.
Jesus decides to go his house. On the way, a woman touches Jesus. She had been suffering from haemorrhages for twelve years. Her secretive faith in Jesus is noteworthy, If only I touch the cloak I will be made well.
The faith in God that dwells within ourselves can be open or secretive. God knows the quality of our faith. Jesus goes to the leader’s house and restores his daughter to life.
The healing mission of Jesus must be part of our lives. Today in the world, people suffer from problems and they do not want to share with family, friends and relatives. They may feel shameful, guilty or afraid. Amidst of crisis, chaos and confusion many feel insecure in life and uncertainty creeps in their life.
We as Christians have to lend a helping hand, make ourselves available to them. Listening to them, making them feel comfortable and finding solutions to their problems can become our mission of building God’s kingdom. Jesus came to give life to these broken hearted.
The words of Jesus to the woman can be given to all those who believe in Jesus. Take heart daughter or take heart Son, your faith has made you well
Lord teach me your ways and make me walk in your truth Amen
Zechariah 9:9-10
Psalm 144:1-2, 8-9, 10-11, 13-14
Romans 8:9, 11-13
Matthew 11:25-30
Hello friends in Jesus, Welcome to the show 2 Minutes with the Lord
Three statements of Jesus that make us feel so comfortable today. We shall reflect on them.
- Come to me all you that are weary and we are carrying heavy burdens and I will give you rest.
What are the burdens that we carry in our life? Why do we feel weary?
List out the various aspects of life that make you weary and heavy burdened. Jesus calls us with an open heart and promises rest. He supplies us with peace, joy and courage.
- Take my yoke upon you and learn from me for my yoke is easy and my burden light.
Don’t you find a contradiction in the statement of Jesus? How can the yoke be easy and the burden light? Jesus understands the struggles of your life. He does not judge anyone. He forgives our sins and shortcomings. The most important part of the statement is the underlying meaning- Are you ready to trust in Him.
- Learn from me for I am gentle and humble in heart and you will find rest for your souls. We have to learn from his exemplary character to live like him. A gentle and humble person by his lifestyle. He walks the path of holiness. He promises to give rest to our souls. He has redeemed us by his death on the cross.
As Christians, we have to work on the quality of meekness. Our life is a struggle between flesh and Spirit. We have to accept the Spirit. A process of unloading of our burdens in Jesus should be a lifetime task.
I remember the beautiful words of a song “Cast your burden unto to Jesus for he cares for you.”
Lord make me meek and humble of heart. Amen.
Amos 9:11-15
Psalm 84:9, 11, 12, 13-14
Matthew 9:14-17
Hello friends in Jesus, Welcome to the show 2 Minutes with the Lord
The disciples of John put a question to Jesus on fasting. He answers them giving the example of a bridegroom, cloth and the wine.
I like the imagery about the wine and the wineskins used by Jesus in today’s Gospel. These words of Jesus, “Neither is new wine put in old wineskins but new wine is put in new wineskins.
What is the practical knowledge of wineskins and the wine? How do the wineskins work?
As new wine ferments, gases are created and it expands the wineskin, the old wineskins being elastic will eventually burst because of the pressure created inside by the wine and the wine will be wasted. Hence, new wine is put in new wine skins.
Similarly, there are lot of teachings in Judaism but Jesus brings the newness of life. If Jesus puts the new teaching of love, justice and peace in the old structure it would burst them.
Hence, Jesus brings a message of newness. A new commandment I give unto you that you love one another as I have loved you.
Jesus began the faith renewal programme with the disciples and the people. He respected the tradition of the religion but he wanted a newness in the attitude and approach of the people. Human nature wants to persevere but it is divine nature that renews.
As Christians, we have to grow in Jesus. It is our responsibility to become new wineskins in our attitude, behaviour and manners. Christian discipleship demands timely renewal of ourselves to proclaim the Gospel.
Lord make us anew in Jesus, Our Lord Amen
Acts 10:24-35, Psalm 41:2-5 John 20:24-29
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While doing my graduation studies I had the privilege of staying at the place of St. Thomas martyrdom, which is also known as St. Thomas Mount. A hilltop situated with a shrine of St. Thomas situated in the city of Chennai, India. Every day, I would walk up and down the hill that hold a remarkable presence of this great saint.
I would also go and pray in the shrine. It was a wonderful encounter to seek the Lord. St. Thomas was martyred with a lance on this hilltop and his remains are buried at San Thome Cathedral, Mylapore in the heart of the city.
What makes St. Thomas the apostle, so special? He was also called “Doubting Thomas” A sceptic requiring a solid proof to believe in Risen Jesus. He wanted to touch the wounds of Jesus, an empirical presence of Risen Lord
A proof of tangibility that would enable him to experience a nearness of the Saviour. It must have been a renewal of faith that Thomas wanted to profess publicly about his relationship with Jesus.
Once he met the Saviour, he left everything, travelled to a distant land to preach the good news, established faith communities, and healed people. The whole personality of Thomas moves from a doubter to a believer. His words of faith-encounter should touch our lives to commit and surrender and say “My Lord and My God”
As Christians, our faith journey must continue and we should always declare that Jesus is My Lord and My God.
Lord you are the God of my Life. Amen
Amos 7:10-17, Psalm 18:8,9,10,11 Matthew 9:1-8
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It was a bright sunny day in the hometown of Jesus. He was so happy to see people around who knew him. As he was entering the town, some people brought a paralytic man on the bed.
Jesus was mesmerized by their faith, He said, Take heart my Son, your sins are forgiven.
The words of Jesus make our hearts feel the warmth of his love. He makes us feel comfortable in his presence. It was a simple gesture of Jesus to heal the person affected by the sickness. The people who carried the paralytic take a leap of faith to bring the man to Jesus. Even the paralytic believes in the power of Jesus as a healer.
Finally, Jesus heals him but also explores the possibility of teaching the scribes a lesson for their evil thoughts. The scribes accuse Jesus of being a blasphemer. Jesus claims the authority to forgive sins.
The whole event explains the constructive, collaborative and committed work of Jesus by doing the Father’s will. The people witnessing this event have a sense of doubt, anxiety and conflict within themselves. What sort of man is this? How does he have this authority?
As Christians, we should have unwavering faith in our God. Let us take time today to look at the characters of the Gospel. Am I like the paralytic or the people who carried him? Am I like the scribes or the people around.
What is my faith-Commitment to Jesus? Lord give me courage to follow you. Amen .
Amos 5:14-15, 21-24
Psalm 49: 7, 8-9, 10-11, 12-13, 16-17
Matthew 8: 28-34
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When I was doing my Bachelors in Theology, I remember my Scripture Professor told the class to repeat the verses that we have in today’s first reading
Let justice roll down like waters and righteousness like an ever-flowing stream.
Such powerful verses from the Old Testament coming through prophet Amos who is the prophet of social justice
We all know that Our God is a loving, kind, and merciful God. He is righteous, just and holy.
What is justice or social justice today? What does bible say about it?
We can say doing what is right can be called justice. The question arises what is right and wrong in the society that we live today.
As followers of Jesus- We look at him as our Lord who has set the standard for justice. Jesus cared for the poor, downtrodden, outcasts, and the needy. He even cared for the people possessed with demons and evil spirits. He helped a woman caught in adultery. There are many instances he helped the people with difficulties.
It is very clear that we are called to do social justice. We have to pursue justice with taking care of the vulnerable people in the society. Identify the most exploited group in the society. Their issues of injustice. Empower them in their struggle. Assist and walk along with them by sharing your resources like time, finance, sacrifice, patience and hardships.
As Christians, we join together to do social justice.
Lord help me liberate people from their struggles of life. Amen
Amos 3:1-8, 4:11-12
Psalm 5:5-6, 7, 8
Matthew 8:23-27
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Imagine yourself in a boat that is in the sea. You are with many co-travellers. All of you enjoy the sea; you see fish in the water, everything is calm and you are watching many birds in the sky.
What a wonderful day it is!
Suddenly, the clouds turn dark. The captain of the boat shouts, it is windstorm. The huge waves start hitting the boat. There is panic all around. You feel afraid of being drowned in the sea. You say to yourself Why did I sit on this boat? What is my fate today? What about my family and friends? Will I die today? All these thoughts cross your mind.
The anxiety level grows higher within you. Suddenly you realize, there is someone who can calm this storm. He is sleeping in the boat and you wake him up. He is Jesus. You say to him, Lord save us we are perishing.
He says, why you are afraid? You of little faith are.
He gets ups, rebukes the winds and the sea comes to a dead calm. You feel happy because your Lord and Saviour has saved you.
My dear friends, This is the situation of our lives. We are caught up in the storms of life and Jesus knows when to calm them. He is always with you. Jesus has calmed many storms in our life. Just become aware of so many situations where He rescued you. We have fears, worries, troubles, problems and dangers but Jesus is ever present.
Let us overcome every storm of our life by having deep faith in Jesus Christ. Prayer is the greatest weapon for all our worries and anxieties.
Lord Jesus increase my faith Amen.
Acts 12:1-11
Psalm 33:2-3,4-5,6-7
2 Timothy 4:6-8, 17-18
Matthew 16:13-19
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As a small boy whenever I went to the church I saw two statues at the entrance of the church One man holding keys and the other with a sword. I asked my dad, who are these?
My dad said, one is Peter- the First Pope appointed by Jesus and holding the keys of heaven. The second statue is St. Paul- the preacher and protector of faith and the sword is the Word of God.
The Catholic Church celebrates the solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul. We can learn a lot about these two saints who sacrificed their life for Jesus. It is the feast of their martyrdom.
Saint Peter left everything to follow Jesus. As a fisherman doing his mundane job with the nets at the sea to following Jesus, travelling with him, experiencing the miracles, being a close aide of Jesus. Jesus chose him as the rock, the foundation of the Church. He failed and faltered but never gave up on Jesus.
Saint Paul was an eminent Jewish scholar, a Pharisee trained in Mosaic law. He was persecuting the followers of Jesus. He learned the trade of crafting. After meeting Jesus on the way to Damascus, he dedicated his life for the proclamation of good news to the Jews and Gentiles. He travelled everywhere to make the presence of Jesus known. His written faith experiences are the foundation of Christian faith.
As Christians, we take our lessons from these stalwarts,
To become a protector of faith rather than an oppressor.
To stand firm in faith during trials and troubles.
Preaching the Good News of Jesus through our words, action and deeds
Making communities of faith more active in our own neighbourhoods
Saints Peter and Paul, Pray for Us. Amen
2 Kings 54:8-11, 14-16a
Psalm 89:2-3, 16-17, 18-19
Romans 6:3-4, 8-11
Matthew 10:37-42
Hello friends in Jesus, Welcome to the show 2 Minutes with the Lord
The encounter between Elisha and the woman is a narrative of goodwill. She welcomes the prophet into her home. She recognizes him as a holy man of God. Elisha blesses her for the act of good will done to him.
We need to have a deep sense of commitment in serving others. It demands giving up personal space and sharing resources with others.
The letter to the Romans say that through Baptism we have been incorporated into Christ. We become united in his life, death and resurrection. We have to establish our relationship with God by rising above sin and becoming alive in Jesus Christ.
Jesus calls out for commitment from the disciples. First he asks for a total commitment. A person loving one’s family more than the Lord isn’t a worthy follower. Love of the Lord comes first. Second, He asks for a radical commitment. Giving up one’s life for the sake of Jesus. It takes a radical commitment to surrender one’s life for Jesus.
Third, He asks for a prophetic commitment. A call to serve the people of God. We need to welcome and care for the people.
As Christians, we have to keep our hearts open to serve the people of God. Jesus invites us to follow him. As disciples of Jesus, we have a greater role in the world to become committed Christians and carry out God’s message in the world.
Lord open our hearts to love and serve you Amen.
Lamentations: 2:2, 10-14, 18-19
Psalm 73:1-2, 3-5, 5-7, 20-21
Matthew 8:5-17
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The story of Jesus and the centurion brings alive the worlds of faith and compassion.
Jesus says, I will come and cure your servant. The generous heart of Jesus trying to reach out in physical presence to the centurion’s servant.
The centurion in return says, Lord I am not worthy to have you under my roof but only speak the word and my servant will be healed. The faithful heart of centurion trusting in the Lord.
The encounter of Jesus and the centurion is a memorable act. An eternal encounter in history because we remember the word of the centurion at every Eucharistic Meal. When we express our unworthiness to have the Lord in our hearts.
The faith of the centurion was the criterion for the cure of the servant. The words of Jesus were so powerful it could heal people at one go.
The healing ministry of Jesus continues at various places. I personally feel that Jesus reaches out to those who have faith in Him.
We are unworthy slaves in the eyes of the Lord but Jesus make us worthy ministers in his Kingdom.
As Christians, we are to show our love to our fellow human beings. We need to have faith like the Centurion and reach out to our Lord in need. The prayer of the centurion should be everyone’s prayer.
Lord you say a word and my soul shall be healed Amen.
2 Kings 25:1-12
Psalms 136: 1-2,3,4-5,6
Matthew 8:1-4
Hello friends in Jesus, Welcome to the show 2 Minutes with the Lord.
We need a healing for our lives. It is a time of grave sickness. We have been fighting an unknown sickness, dealing with the symptoms and trying to prevent the spread of a virus.
If we look at any sickness, we try to identify the ways it spreads and then slowly we initiate the research for a cure. We have been successful in some ways to restrict the spread but the contamination continues to affect the world.
During this time, our mental health received a major setback. We have fear, worry, grief, stress and chaos in our life. Mental health includes our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel, and act. It also helps determine how we handle stress, relate to others, and make choices. Mental health is very essential for a good life.
We have an example from the Gospel today when a leper approaches Jesus as he comes down from the mountain. The leper’s mental health was poor. In addition to his sickness, he had suffered a great deal of societal and family pressure, fear of death, sorrow, desertion from loved ones, loneliness and many issues.
Can we see a similar situation in our society right now?
Jesus heals the leper and instructs him to show to the priest. The act of healing shows hope and compassion. There is a cry for help from the leper who asks Jesus to heal him.
Our Lord knows our ailments and sicknesses. We need to trust in him. As Christians, we need to share about our fears to the ones whom we trust. We have to pray to God to give us courage to face fears.
Lord give us courage to overcome our fears Amen.
2 Kings 24:8-17
Psalms 78:1-2. 3-5, 8, 9
Matthew 7:21-29
Hello friends in Jesus, Welcome to the show 2 Minutes with the Lord.
It is always a good exercise to examine our life at regular intervals. Is there a difference in our words and actions?
Very often, we say something and do something else. Our words and actions do not complement each other. They are just opposites. Jesus gives a final address at the Sermon on the Mount by saying, “Not everyone who says to me Lord, Lord will enter the kingdom of heaven but only the one who does the will of my Father.”
Doing the will of the Father is a synchronisation of our words and actions. It is a tough task to follow the commandments of the Lord.
We live in a world full of double standards and we have come across people whose actions do not match with their words. We have to examine our own lives whether our actions and live match each other We are not here to condemn other about their lifestyle.
Jesus gives an example, the house built on rock and the house built on sand. We know the general rule of having a good foundation to any structure that we build. The stronger the foundation the better the structure.
As Christians, we have to build our life in Jesus. If we build like the foolish man than our life will crumble down. A life without a foundation may be easy but not for a long time.
Let us follow the words of Jesus, Listen to him and remain in his presence. Speak words that resemble our actions. Live a life built on God our true and solid foundation.
Jesus make be stronger in your name Amen.
Isaiah 49:1-6
Psalms 138:1-3, 13-14, 14-15
Acts 13: 22-26
Luke 1:57-66, 80
Hello friends in Jesus, Welcome to the show 2 Minutes with the Lord.
Today we celebrate joy and happiness with the birth of John the Baptist, the precursor of Jesus. It is a solemn feast in the Catholic Church.
A childless couple who had no hope of having a child in their life. It was God’s intervention that Elizabeth receives the blessings of God. The child born was appointed from the mother’s womb to herald the good news.
Zechariah and Elizabeth name him John. There was a whole lot of debate going on about the naming of the child. We too are very precise in giving a name to our own children. The name gives us identity in the society. Furthermore, name has special value and significance in the lives of people.
John means God is gracious. The grace of God remained on the child and he grew stronger in spirit. All the four gospels mention the role of John the Baptist as the forerunner for Jesus.
The family received grace from God for hoping in Him. Hope in God brings blessing. The neighbours of John the Baptist ask a question ‘What will the child become?’ In our own family circle, we too are curious to know what the child will become in future.
John the Baptist prepares the path of the Lord. It was a special calling. As Christians, we have a special calling like John the Baptist to proclaim the message of Jesus to the world. We can be the heralds of God’s kingdom.
As forerunners, we have to bring justice, peace and harmony to the people and the earth. The Nativity of John the Baptist brings promises to our prophetic call in serving Jesus. May we become bearers of grace in our families,
Lord make me a forerunner to build your kingdom. Amen
2 Kings 19:9-11, 14-21, 31-35, 36
Psalms 47: 2-3, 3-4, 10-11
Matthew 7:6, 12-14
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Putting one’s hope and trust in the Lord brings success. King Hezekiah prayed in the Lord’s presence. He believed in the power of prayer. Prayer is a conversation with God and it surely yields results. Sometimes we too don’t believe in prayer.
Standing firm in faith brings victory and the same happened when the angel of the Lord stuck the army. Faith triumphed over arrogance.
Jesus says, Do not throw pearls before swine. What are the pearls in our life?
Pearls can be my talents, resources, energy, creative ideas, and faith-experiences, which should not be thrown before people who do not value us. They do not know the value of these things. We utilise a lot of our talents, energy, and resources for the good of others and gives satisfaction and joy to help others.
There are people who don’t value our pearls. They feel it will harm them. We have to use them wherever there is genuine need.
Secondly, we have to work our way through the narrow gate that demands hard work but ultimately gives joy.
A Christian calling means walking the narrow gate because to follow Jesus isn’t that easy.
Let us ponder on three points for today
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Hard work brings success
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Respect the talent, ideas and resources of others.
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Having firm faith in Jesus who answers our prayers.
Take time today to list out the beautiful pearls of your life, some faith-moments and the road taken in life.
Lord help me to walk in your way. Amen
2 Kings 17:5-8, 13-15, 18
Psalms 59: 3, 4-5, 12-13
Matthew 7: 1-5
Hello friends in Jesus, Welcome to the show 2 Minutes with the Lord.
We are aware of destruction that happens in the Universe. We know about wars, fights and conflicting territorial situations between countries.
In the first reading, the king of Assyria invades the land, captures the people of Samaria, and carries them to Assyria. The people weren’t faithful to the commandments of the Lord. They received several warnings and sent his prophets to the Israelites but they never paid heed to any of them.
What does the Lord need of me today? Am I listening to God’s command coming through various people in my life?
The Gospel has a message for every individual. One thing that we can’t stop despite all our efforts is judging others.
Can we count the number of times we judge people every day?
We have thousands of judgemental feelings, opinions, observations and thoughts that come into our mind. Many of them reach out vocally and still some linger in our hearts.
We all have judged someone or someone has judged us. We feel hurt when it is done to us, and vice versa.
Jesus says, Do not judge so that you may not be judged.
As Christians, we need an awareness that all are children of God and unique. We have similar problems so look into ourselves. We look at others from our perspectives so try to find positive attributes.
Jesus wants us to question our own issues and insecurities before condemning others. Let us heal ourselves by refraining from judging others.
Lord help me to become aware of myself Amen.
Jeremiah 20: 10-13
Psalm 68: 8-10, 14-17, 33-35
Romans 5: 12-15
Matthew 10:26-33
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Fear is a vital response to physical and emotional danger that has been throughout human evolution. We are fearful because of the threats and dangers that are prevalent around us. We live in fear and continue our daily life with many aspects of fear affecting us.
The prophet Jeremiah feels threatened by his enemies and he puts his trust in the Lord. He believes that the Lord is a warrior who stands with us.
The letter to the Romans reminds us that our Lord Jesus Christ saved us from sin by his death on the cross. Grace came into our life through Jesus.
These days we fear death and sickness. We feel uncertain of our future. There are many elements of our life, which contain fear. Jesus gives a simple explanation on fear. Do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul rather fear him who can destroy both body and soul.
It is difficult to handle threats, danger, and fear in our lives. Jesus offers help. He wants to acknowledge Him and the Father
A Christian never lives in fear because Jesus is a warrior who triumphed over fear even death. Seek help from Jesus by praying to Him.
Share your fears with your loved ones may be your parents, spouse, brothers and sisters, relatives and the people you trust. We need to help each other and eradicate fear.
As Christians, we surrender our fears to Jesus and give witness to his name by helping others to overcome fear. Let us fear God and God alone.
Take time to identify your fears and help others who face fear, threats and danger in life.
Lord make me a prophet to give witness to your name. Amen.
Isaiah 61:9-11
1 Samuel 2:1,4-8
Luke 2:41-51
Yesterday, we celebrated the Feast of the Sacred Heart of Jesus and today we celebrate the Immaculate Heart of Mary. The devotion to the Immaculate Heart of Mary began with St. John Eudes. Later on in the year, 1942 Pope Pius XII consecrated the world to the Immaculate Heart of Mary.
Love for humanity comes forth from the Heart of Jesus and the love of God generates from the heart of Mary. From the birth of Jesus to the death on the cross, Mary treasured all these things in her heart. She meditated on the salvific mysteries of life.
The closeness of Mary’s heart to the heart of Jesus can be seen in the Gospel today when Jesus is lost in the temple. She started searching for her Son and did not stop until she found her.
Mother’s love for her son could be measured in this encounter of a painful heart yearning to meet her lost Son. As a mother, she had to bear the loss and pain of losing her son.
Why is the Feast of the Immaculate Heart of Mary important for us?
The Immaculate Heart of Mary is a source of grace for humanity as love generated from the heart of Mary in responding to God’ will finds its fulfilment in the salvific role she undertook. Mary leads us closer to God
As Christians, when we honour the Immaculate Heart of Mary let us reflect
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Having a mother’s heart just like Mary
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Making our own hearts so pure and holy
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Pray to Mary to intercede for us
Immaculate heart of Mary, Pray for us. Amen.
Deuteronomy 7:6-11
Psalm 102: 1-2, 3-4, 6-7, 8-10
1 John 4:7-16
Matthew 11:25-30
God so loved the world that he gave his only Son that whoever believes in Him will have eternal life. The love of the Father poured forth in this world through the act of creation. The merciful heart of the Father created humanity and went on to sustain the Universe through this loving act.
The Son of the Father born in flesh and blood came to love the human race. He reached out to the poor, needy, sick and suffering by his compassionate love. The heart of Jesus is so pure and holy.
The feast of the Sacred heart of Jesus opens for us a privilege to understand God’s love through the heart of Jesus.
The devotion to the sacred heart started with the apparitions to St. Margaret Mary Alacoque who said about the Enthronement of the picture of the Sacred Heart and dedication to Sacred Heart in the families.
The feast of the Sacred Heart of Jesus reminds us of making our hearts like Jesus.
How does this feast become meaningful for us?
As Christians, we need a loving heart to love one another irrespective of caste, creed, colour, gender, race, region and religion
In a world where we face hatred, division, chaos, oppression, fear and anxiety we have to change our minds and attitude of people.
Love of Jesus can be experienced in the Church through the Sacraments that we receive and finally we have to be ‘Love Transplanters’ to become like Jesus only then we can experience the pure and holy heart of Jesus and make it our own.
Create in me a heart like Jesus Amen
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Today Jesus teaches his disciples to pray. When you pray, do not heap empty phrases as the Gentiles. It must have been a practice during that time to speak with pagan gods using long sentences and words.
Jesus speaks in a simple manner about the Father who knows even before you ask. He goes to teach us the prayer that is dear to our heart. The Our Father. What is so special about this prayer?
Our Father in heaven: addressing our loving Father
Hallowed be thy name: His glorious name be holy always
Your Kingdom come: Let his reign come on us
Your will be done on earth as it is in Heaven: We have to do God’s will in our life and proclaim his Kingdom.
Give us today our daily bread: We ask the Lord to care for our needs
And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors: forgiving our sins and forgiveness for those who have hurt us. Our prayer should be one of forgiveness
Do not bring us to the test but deliver us from evil: Asking for grace from our father to resist evil and to protect us from dangers.
How do I pray to God? Long words and sentences or a simple prayer surrendering our life
Lord help us to forgive those who hurt us. Amen
1 Kings 17:1-6
Psalms 120: 1-2, 3-4, 5-6, 7-8
Matthew 5:1-12
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Jesus goes to the mountain witnessing a huge crowd following him. He presents his teaching, which is Sermon on the Mount, a long series of episodes containing the wealth of Christian living.
Today Jesus gives the Beatitudes. Beatitudes are blessings that are to be lived out in life. Our faith in Jesus Christ requires that we believe in the teachings and imbibe them.
Let us meditate on the Beatitudes.
Blessed are the poor in Spirit for theirs is the kingdom: We need a re check on our egos, self-pride, boastfulness and adapt to poverty in Spirit.
Blessed are those who mourn for they will be comforted: We can’t be happy and seeking pleasure all the time. Acceptance of sadness and sorrow becomes necessary.
Blessed are the meek for they will inherit the earth: Our stubbornness, anger, hatred, jealousy becomes a block to becoming meek.
Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness: A longing to do justice, honest ways of living and doing good deeds are the hallmark of Christian life.
Blessed are the merciful: False Humility and False Ignorance need a cleansing in our lives to become merciful.
Blessed are the pure in heart for they will see God: Faithfulness to God, family, and society leads us to holiness making us God like.
Blessed are the peacemakers: Building God’s kingdom is our call as His children.
Blesses are those who are persecuted for righteousness: If we suffer for truth , liberation is sure to come.
Blessed are you when people revile you: Patience is the key to great reward in Heaven.
Lord make be blessed and happy Amen
Exodus 34:4-6, 8-9
2 Corinthians 13:11-13
John 3:16-18
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Today, the church celebrates Trinity Sunday; it is the first Sunday after Pentecost.
Trinity Sunday is the only Sunday in the Christian calendar that celebrates the foundational doctrine of the Catholic Church. The church invites us to experience and pray on the most central and unfathomable mystery of faith.
The doctrine of the Trinity means that there is one God who eternally exists as three distinct persons the Father, Son and Holy Trinity.
We are called to meditate on the mystery of the Trinity. God, the Father and Creator of the Universe, he sustains all things. The All-powerful, All-knowing and Ever loving God sent forth his Son, Jesus Christ as Redeemer on the earth in flesh and blood so that he can rescue human beings from sin by his life, death and resurrection. Finally, He set the world ablaze with fire with the Holy Spirit, the Sanctifier who prompts the hearts and minds of people to build God’s Kingdom.
In the Gospel, Jesus describes the intimate relationship between the Father, Son and the Holy Spirit. The love of God poured forth in giving the Son to the world that whoever believes in him may have life eternal.
We are called to experience this mystery when we worship God, when we pray, in the church, and also in the sacraments.
As Christians we share in the life of the Holy Trinity. The deep communion between the Father, Son and the Spirit should dwell within us, as we believe in the Trinity. We can live the great mystery of Holy Trinity through our love and unity towards our neighbours, family members and church communities.
In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit Amen
2 Timothy 4:1-8
Psalm 70: 8-9,14-15,16-17, 22
Mark 12:38-44
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A poor widow puts two copper coins at the treasury. Jesus was present at the temple treasury watching this scene. He immediately calls the attention of the disciples saying, this poor widow has put in more than any other person.
Jesus talks about the spirit of generosity. Many gave out of the surplus but the widow gave out of the little she had with her.
What is the real lesson on Christian generosity?
I have come across many persons who have come with generous hands to give out of the little they have in life. They are not rich and aren’t born with a silver spoon. They have a sense of Christian giving for a genuine need. This shows the true spirit of Christian generosity.
Generosity is a virtue and value that we should acquire in our life. During the last 2 months, we have witnessed the generous scenario of people coming from all lifestyles to give to the needy.
I remember the words of St. Theresa of Kolkata, if you can’t feed a hundred people, Then feed just one.
Generosity means sharing our resources to someone who needs genuinely. It can be sharing a smile, chatting up with a friend in need, sharing your meal with someone who doesn’t have, visiting the sick, helping your colleagues at work.
I have a question for you, what is generosity according to you?
Take some time to remember the events in your life when you have reached out in generosity or someone reached out to you with a generous heart like the widow in the Gospel
Lord help me to be generous Amen
2 Tim 3: 10-17,
Psalm 118: 157, 160, 161, 165, 168
Mark 12: 35-37
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Jesus teaches in the temple today. He asks a question to the crowd about the scribes. He says, how can the scribes say that the Messiah is the son of David?
The challenge that Jesus poses to them comes from a deep knowledge of God. Jesus as the Son of God knew the mind of the people and he knew about the prophecy of the Messiah.
The Messiah is to be born in the line of David. Joseph was the descendant of David and the father of Jesus. Jesus refers to David and indirectly refers to himself as the Messiah.
Jesus was boldly asking the people about the scripture.
Paul says to Timothy and other believers to remain strong in faith. He gives his example of the persecution and sufferings that he is going through.
Paul refers to the scripture as inspired by God and is useful for teaching, for reproof, for corrections, and for training in righteousness.
We know for sure that Scripture contains God’s revelation. God reveals to us through his Word.
My dear friends, As Christians we are to ponder and reflect on God’s word which gives us life-giving message.
Secondly, We have to spread love peace, and harmony rather than hate, lies, jealousy. Persecutions are bound to come to us as we do good to others, because the world is made a better place by few individuals.
Can we become that one person who can make a difference ?
Lord inspire us with your Word Amen
2 Timothy 2:8-15
Psalm 24: 4-5, 8-9, 10, 14
Mark 12: 28-34
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One of the scribes comes to Jesus asking a question about commandments. If you understand the Jewish religion, it has many rules. The Scribe wants to test Jesus about the knowledge of the Torah. He asks which commandment is the first of all.
Jesus knew his lessons as a faithful Jew. He quotes the Shema prayer before the commandment. The Shema prayer (Deut 6:4-9) Hear O Israel, Jesus adds this before saying. You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength. This is the first important commandment
Jesus further goes on to add a second important one; you shall love your neighbour as yourself. As we know, God has created each one of us and we have to worship him. Our Almighty God has created us, as God’s children we ought to show the same love to our neighbours, as they too are God’s children.
Look at the situation today, we have created more differences than being united. The rich and the poor, intelligent and not so intelligent, differences based on skin colors, race, ethnicity also differences in gender, differences on being seniors and juniors, and power positions.
Remember my dear friends, as children of God we are to love God and our neighbour. We all are equal in God’s sight. If we do not have love for our neighbour than we haven’t loved God enough.
Let us pray that we love God truly and our neighbour Amen.
2 Timothy 1:1-3, 6-12
Psalm 122:1-2, 2-3
Mark 12:18-27
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Some Sadducees are questioning Jesus today on the subject of resurrection; they present to him a weirdest example possible.
What if a wife gets widowed after marrying the seven brothers? Whose wife will she be in the resurrection because she married seven of them?
Now don’t these Sadducees seem to be out of their mind? Jesus knew the tricks they were playing and he beautifully expresses the nature of resurrection.
At the resurrection, there is newness of life. He makes it very clear that there is resurrection from the dead.
Then he goes on to say-they neither marry nor are given in marriage but are angels in heaven.
Eternal life is so beautiful. God’s love and power can be fully known when we believe in faith about our rising from the dead. Jesus goes on to say, that the God is not of the dead but of the living.
Resurrection is a transformation that we will experience. In eternity, we become united with the Lord. The mystery, which Jesus explains, calls us to believe in the resurrection of the dead and our own resurrection.
Isn’t it beautiful that we will live eternally with our living God
St. Paul says, the grace was given to us in Christ now revealed to us in Jesus Christ who abolished death and brought life.
Jesus has triumphed over death and risen. We too will rise with him until then we continue to preach the Gospel.
Lord bless me to have faith in you Amen
2 Peter 3:11-15, 17-18
Psalm 89:2,3-4,10,14,16
Mark 12:13-17
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Some Pharisees and some Herodians came to trap Jesus with a question on taxes. Jesus escapes the situation by answering them in a logical sequence.
What is the question? Is it lawful to pay taxes to the emperor or not?
If Jesus affirms the Roman taxes- he will cause panic and chaos among his followers who are tired of Roman monarchy.
If he rejects taxes, they may arrest him for treason and murder him.
Jesus asks them to bring a denarius, which is a person’s daily wage. He asks the people, whose image is on the coin?
Now the coin has the image of the emperor Caesar. Whereas human beings are created in the image of God.
If coin belongs to Caesar than it belongs to God first because God is greater than Caesar. All human beings are subject to God’s authority who is so powerful and supreme.
Jesus does not deny tax nor does he deny God. His answer is simple. Give to Caesar what belongs to him and Give to God what belongs to God.
Jesus demands faithfulness in all of us. As a citizen of the country, we have to follow the law and abide by the rules. As a child of God we have to pray, worship and follow God’s will in our life.
I may be faithful in paying taxes to the country, but am I repaying what is due to God? We are created in the image of God let us show our love, care and affection to our own family and friends. When we invest in love of our neighbour and care for them, we get great returns. This is what God wants us to give to him.
Lord make me humble and sincere in your sight Amen.
Genesis 3:9-15, 20
Psalm 87:1-2,3, 5, 6-7
John 19:25-34
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Pope Francis had decreed on 3rd March 2018 that henceforth the Monday after the Pentecost be celebrated as the Memorial of Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of the Church.
I also remember the words of Rev. Cardinal Robert Sarah who is also the Prefect of the Congregation for Divine Worship and the Discipline of Sacraments said, The Pope’s decision took account of the tradition surrounding the devotion to Mary as mother of the Church.
Mary was praying in the Upper room with the Apostles when the Holy Spirit descended on them as tongues of fire. Mary was present at the birth of the church. Mary is the mother of all faithful, believers and the disciples and now Mary is the Mother of the Church.
Mary and the Church have a deep-rooted relationship. Mary as the mother stood with the disciples as she saw the birth of the church. Her presence portrays the love and conviction for the mission of Jesus. Mary gave birth to Jesus and she gives birth to the Church as she fulfils the mystery of salvation through her prayerful union with the faithful
The Church is the Mystical Body of Jesus and Mary as the Mother of the Church remains united in Jesus
My dear friends, we pray to Mary the Mother of the Church to intercede for the Church in the world. The Church imitates the model of Mary in being faithful to God’s will and walking the path of holiness.
As members of the Holy Mother Church, we surrender our lives to God. Like Mary, we should have humility and mercy.
Mary Mother of the Church, we pray for the church that cares for the faithful and carries out the mission of Jesus in the world. Amen
Acts 2:1-11, Psalm 103: 1-2, 24, 27-30
1 Cor 12:3-7, 12-13
John 20:19-23
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What images come to your mind? When you listen to the word Holy Spirit. The artists have portrayed the images of the Holy Spirit in many ways. The tongues of fire as mentioned in the bible, images of dove, flame, wind and so on.
Today we celebrate the Holy Spirit; the feast of Pentecost. The day when the Holy Spirit descended upon the apostles and they began to speak in different languages.
Jesus had promised us that he would send the Spirit to be with us. The Holy Spirit comes bringing grace from the Father and the Son. The Spirit will be always with us.
Pentecost means 50th Day- It is the birthday of the Church. On this day, the church invites all the faithful to pray. As Mother Mary and the disciples were praying in the upper room, the Holy Spirit that came as tongues of fire and descended on them.
The Spirit gave them power and anointed them. The disciples gave the same Spirit to the people. My dear friends, the Holy Spirit is present in our church and in our lives. We receive the blessings of the Spirit from the Word of God, Sacraments, and Eucharist.
We have to earnestly pray and ask the Holy Spirit to give us the gifts and fruits so that we remain faithful as Christians.
We begin and end our prayers remembering the Trinity-The Father, Son and the Holy Spirit. How beautiful to have the Holy Spirit as our guide and comforter. The Holy Spirit is a gift from God to us so that we become aware of ourselves to lead holy lives.
We receive wisdom, care, love comfort and faith from the Holy Spirit and we need to share this with others as disciples of Jesus.
Oh Holy Spirit come and fill our lives with your love Amen.
Acts 28:16-20, 30-31
Psalm 10:4,5,7
John 21: 20-25
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We come to the concluding part of John’s Gospel where Peter and Jesus have a conversation. Peter was curious to know about the disciple whom Jesus loved. Jesus beautifully answers Peter’s question by saying, If it my will that he remain until I come, what is that to you?
Jesus had assigned a special mission to Peter. He never wanted to tell Peter the mission assigned to the beloved disciple. Each one was given a mission to build the Kingdom of God.
The role and responsibility were different but the task was the same. Jesus wanted that all his disciples carry out the mission of proclaiming the good news.
The curiosity of Peter make me more curious. Therefore, I started meditating on the words of Peter.
When Peter saw the beloved disciple following them, He said to Jesus, “Lord what about him”
Now these words held my curiosity for a long time. As human beings, we have a tendency to ask about others.
What about this person? How about that person? You see her, what about her? The questions about others are embedded in our minds.
Jesus answer was so simple, “What is that to you”
As Christians, we are to fulfil our part in making the message of Jesus known to others. Paul as an apostle and missionary continued to preach until his last days in Rome. He remains faithful to his mission. A strong will and courage led him to overcome difficulties. Moreover, he was a true believer in Jesus, which makes him the beloved.
Can I become the beloved disciple of Jesus?
Let us pray that we follow Jesus and love him like the beloved disciple. Amen
Acts 25: 13-21
Psalm 102: 1-2, 11-12. 19-20
John 21:15-19
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Jesus asks Simon Peter a question, “Do you love me?” And Simon Peter answers, “Yes Lord I love you”
Peter was a faithful apostle of Jesus. Jesus wanted the legacy to be carried out by Simon Peter. He chose Peter as the leader who would build the Kingdom of God.
However, we all know the story, Peter failed a few times. There was fear in him at the time of Lord’s passion. Peter denied Jesus three times that night. He felt sorry for his mistake and wept bitterly.
When Peter encountered Risen Jesus. Jesus wanted to make sure whether Peter had the same zeal to follow him. The mission that Jesus would entrust to him was challenging and dangerous. It could cost Peter his life.
The statement that Jesus made resonates in my ears, as Peter would follow the same act of love by giving his life for Jesus: What greater love that a man lay down his life for his friends
Jesus knew that Peter would carry out his responsibility in a faithful way going to the extent of laying down his life in an extraordinary manner. He would glorify the name of the Lord.
Jesus repeatedly questions Peter, Do you love me? Remember my friends, when someone truly loves you. He or she would ask repeated questions to get an assurance that you truly love him/her. Therefore, Jesus seeks an assurance from Peter.
As Christians, we have to renew our relationship with the people whom we love our parents, children, spouse, friends and more importantly with our Lord Jesus
Lord we want to love you and follow you more dearly Amen
Acts 22:30; 23:6-11
Psalm 15: 1-2, 5, 7-11
John 17:20-26
Hello friends in Jesus, Welcome. Hope you are enjoying 2 Minutes with the Lord.
Jesus prays for unity. The Concluding part of the High Priestly prayer of Jesus where he prays for unity among the disciples and all those who believe in him as Lord and Saviour.
He prays for those who accept him and love the Father who sent him in the world.
Jesus wants the believers to share in the glory of the Father. His wish that as the Father loved him that same love may remain with the disciples.
Jesus speaks of communion with the Father in love. A beautiful mystery of the love of God. We all need a perfect union in God. Jesus and the Father shared a relationship, which was eternal, loving, and life giving, now Jesus wants that the disciples should have the same relationship with the Father. He wants all of them to be one.
My dear Friends, we are united in the Trinity through our baptism. We receive grace that comes from the Father through Jesus Christ by the bestowing of the Holy Spirit. We become the members of the church.
Paul standing before the tribunal addresses the people with courage and faith. He was united in Jesus Christ. The presence of the Lord was with him in times of dangers and difficulties. He meets the Lord and the Lord assures him that he has to testify for him.
As Christians, we too are called to be united in Jesus through our lives. The prayer of Jesus has to be lived in our lives. To love others as God love us, To make known the name of the Lord, and to be in perfect union with him.
Lord may we find joy in loving and knowing you Amen
Acts 20:28-38
Psalm 67: 29-30; 33-35; 35-36
John 17:11-19
Hello friends in Jesus, Welcome. Hope you are enjoying 2 minutes with the Lord
Paul gives instructions to the leaders of the Church. He tells them to shepherd the church of God. Paul as a faithful apostle led by example and continues to give out his experience in building the church in many places lived a life of simplicity, hard work and continuous preaching of good news to the people.
He calls the leaders to commit themselves to follow the pursuit of truth. The pursuit of truth consists in building the kingdom of God. Helping the weak and poor by giving instead of receiving. Paul lives as a true shepherd to the people of God.
Jesus in the Gospel prays for his apostles. A High Priestly prayer at the last supper, which is also known as the Farewell Discourse of Jesus.
What do we have in this prayer?
First, he prays for their protection. The apostles have to be protected from the evil one.
Second, He prays for the joy of the apostles.
Third, he prays that they may be sanctified in truth
Fourth, he prays that they may carry out the word given to them
Fifth, they apostles do not belong to this world so they too are called to eternal life in God.
Jesus goes on to pray they have to believe in Him. As Christians, we are called to lead a holy life. As the Holy Church of God, we have to live our lives on the teachings of Jesus Christ. Let us renew our commitment and pledge mercy and compassion
Lord may we become true shepherds of the Church. Amen
Acts 20: 17-27 Psalms 67:10-11, 20-21 John 17:1-11 Hello friends in Jesus, Welcome. Hope you are enjoying 2 Minutes with the Lord Jesus glorifies the Father and he prays for the glorification of the human race. Jesus while completing his mission on this earth prays for eternal life with the Father. We all pray for eternal life in communion with God. We long to be in the presence of our Father in heaven. Eternal life is a personal awareness of God in our life and a relationship that we build in God. Jesus prays that we all receive eternal life. Jesus made known that God the Father loves us all. As I always say, Jesus is the human face of our loving God. Jesus prays for his disciples before his departure on this earth. Jesus as the manifestation of God’s eternal love to human beings reveals the Father on this earth. Paul as an apostle of Jesus Christ made manifest the saving presence of God to the people of Ephesus by the proclamation of good news. He endured trials, difficulties and temptations along the way. He says that the ministry that God gave him brings life to others. He marches ahead as a fearless disciple and ready to face the consequences to have an eternal life in God. As Christians, we have God who has promised us eternal life. We have a situation of fear, chaos, sickness, stress, and many other problems but remember God will make a way where there seems no way. Have faith in him. Let us pray for one another as Jesus prayed for his disciples. We also may pray for a loving communion in the Trinity. Lord we pray for Unity in the world. Amen
Acts 19:1-18
Psalm 67: 2-5, 6-7
John 16: 29-33
Hello friends in Jesus, Welcome. Hope you are enjoying 2 minutes with the Lord
Jesus speaks about the place from where he came and to where he is going. The disciples believe firmly in Jesus. He warns them about the dangers that are going to come. The disciples will desert him during the hour of death.
When they desert him, he is not alone because the Father is ever present in his life even during the passion and death. He tells his disciples that one has to be aware of the presence of the Father.
Our God is an all-time present God. The presence of God is an awareness that we need to have in our life. God is with us as he was with Jesus.
Jesus further says that he has conquered the world. Jesus by his act on the cross conquers the world. In spite of grave dangers at hand.
He tells them to take courage. The conquering of the world is not by weapons but by an act of love.
Paul on his missionary journey shows this act of love by helping the people believe in Jesus. He explains about Jesus and the people receive the Holy Spirit.
As Christians, we need to have constant awareness of God in our lives we have to believe in him. The greatest act as a disciple of Jesus is to have mercy and compassion for the people in need. The Holy Spirit inspires us every second of our life. We should constantly pray to the Holy Spirit
Lord give us the Spirit to renew our lives. Amen
Acts 1:1-11
Psalm 46:2-3, 6-9
Matthew 28:16-20
Hello friends in Jesus, Welcome… Hope you are enjoying 2 Minutes with the Lord
The game of football is so fascinating, if you have ever watched it on television you may know that it the game has a time line of 90 plus minutes. The game does not end before 90 Minutes. Today Jesus completes the biggest time limit of his mission on this earth.
At the point of departure, he gives his last speech and parting words to the disciples. I am with you until the end of the ages.
On the day of Ascension as Jesus leaves the earth he wants his disciples to be his witnesses.
What is this Ascension all about?
We find in the biblical accounts that Jesus after the resurrection appeared to the disciples at various intervals in many places and gave instructions. As Risen Jesus in Body and Spirit, he ascends to heaven to be in communion with the Father and Spirit.
I see this feast of Ascension as a promise parameter to us in three different ways
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The eternal promise of Jesus to his disciples. I will be with you forever
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The return of Jesus back to the Father after completing the mission entrusted to him
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The beginning of witnessing community of disciples in the world through the good news.
As Christians, we have to live our lives as witnesses. Being a disciple of Jesus and sharing the good news with others, we continue the legacy of Jesus by loving one another and doing our best to help humanity. Alleviate the sufferings of poor and needy around us.
My dear friends, Pope Francis had dedicated the last week as Laudato Si week to pray for our Common Home that is the world. We have to show mercy and compassion towards suffering humanity and creation. As we conclude the Laudato Si Week we gather in prayer showing solidarity to the world.
Lord may ne become responsible stewards of creation Amen
Acts 18:23-28
Psalm 46: 2-3, 8-10
John 16:23-28
Hello friends in Jesus, Hope you are enjoying 2 Minutes with the Lord
God’s word is so powerful and life giving. An expert and effective preacher named Apollos began to preach the Lord’s word in Corinth. He proved as a great help to the people.
Apollos had good intentions of making the Scripture known to the Corinth community. However, his understanding was limited in the Baptism of the Holy Spirit.
The faithful couple Aquila and Priscilla instructed Apollos about the Holy Spirit. He feels so happy to learn from them and allows himself to be moved by the Spirit.
The Spirit of the Lord gives him wisdom and understanding. We feel the presence of the Holy Spirit in the early Church. The couple receive the inspiration and instruct Apollos who learns about the Lord. All of them have received the Holy Spirit in their hearts. They encourage and support each other.
Jesus instructs his disciples to ask in his name and the father will provide for them. We depend on God for our daily needs and feel so happy to ask God for our needs. We raise our hearts in prayer to ask for whatever we need. We want all our desires to be fulfilled by God.
Let us understand that in this process of asking; not all our desires and wishes may be fulfilled. The Lord knows us and gives us what we need for our life.
As Christians, we need to understand the prayer of petitions. We need to ask the Lord for our needs. Reflect on our prayer life and the right motive of asking the Lord. Let us seek firstly peace, love, hope, courage and justice for our life by keeping our hearts truthful and pure.
Lord in these challenging times we ask you to help everyone in need. Amen
Acts 18:9-18
Psalm 46:2-7
John 16:20-23
Hello friends in Jesus, Welcome. Hope you are enjoying 2 Minutes with the Lord.
Paul was a man of prayer; his deep conviction to pray and listen to God’s word in his life motivated all his actions as a missionary. The Lord says to Paul in a vision, “To speak out and not to be afraid for no one will harm you.
The Lord’s assurance and support remains present in his life. He is so sure of God’s intervention, which gives him courage to sail further to Syria to proclaim the good news.
He was a faithful Jew who followed all the rites and rituals of his religion. Let us reflect on one question for ourselves
How do I hear God’s voice in my life?
Jesus spoke convincingly about his departure. He gives a beautiful example of woman’s labour pain and the birth of her child. The pain is forgotten when the woman gives birth to the baby. The heart of the woman rejoices as she brings a life on this earth.
The disciples of Jesus will experience pain when Jesus departs this earth and when Jesus comes, again there will be joy. They will believe in him.
As Christians, we go through a lot of pain and trouble even in our own lives. We have an assurance from Jesus that no one will take our joy away. We have to be joyful people. Let us ponder on these three pointers
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We have an experience that our pain and sufferings bring the best in us. It brought the best out of Paul.
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Is pain and suffering permanent? No, it is not. Joy will surely come after the pain.
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God is our only hope. Trust in Him.
Lord we know you will give the best to your loving children Amen.
Acts 18:1-8
Psalm 97:1-3, 3-4
John 16:16-20
Hello friends in Jesus, Welcome. Hope you are enjoying 2 minutes with the Lord
Paul’s character has always inspired me from my early childhood. My mother would narrate stories of Paul as a missionary, mystic and martyr of the Catholic Church.
This great saint really has lots of guts in him. Failure does not deter him from preaching more about Jesus. As a courageous and determined personality, he moves from one city to another preaching the good news.
Today we hear him moving away from Athens to Corinth as a missionary. He goes from the Jews who do not believe in him to Gentiles who willingly accept his teachings. He meets new people in the town and as a mystic prays with them, strengthens the local church by teaching them and slowly moves to the next city.
I would always call him as a masterstroke disciple of Jesus.
Jesus wanted his disciples to become aware of the fact that he is going away. We really miss people who have gone away from us. It is a fact that once a personal relationship has been established with someone; it is very difficult to depart from them. We really love to be around them, seek their presence and departure seems to be the most difficult part.
Disciples would surely miss him as they shared an intimate relationship with Jesus. Therefore, Jesus shows compassion towards them as he prepares for the final phase of his life.
There are moments in our life when we miss Jesus. We need his constant presence with us.
Let us pray that JESUS stays with us every day--- Amen
Acts 17:15-22, 18: 1
Psalms 148: 1-2, 11-14
John 16: 12-15
Hello friends in Jesus, Welcome Hope you are enjoying 2 Minutes with the Lord
Paul as an adventurous missionary reaches the city of Athens to preach the good news. He starts preaching about the good ness of God. God is the creator of the heavens and the earth. He created human beings and gives them in abundance. Paul further says God does not live in human made shrines but in human hearts; nor is he served by human hands
God does not need anything from human beings. Human beings have to search for God, as we need everything to live and sustain on his blessings.
Reflect on this question: What do we need from God?
We need God’s support, guidance, wisdom and many more blessings to direct our lives.
Jesus as a giver of the Spirit of Truth. He tells about the Spirit while he completes the work on this earth of making the Spirit known to the apostles. The apostles receive the knowledge of the Spirit, which will come once Jesus is gone from this earth. The spirit will glorify him.
Jesus generously gives what belongs to him and the Father. Paul received the Spirit of truth and he went on preaching the good news. The believers received the Spirit of truth, as they became believers in the teachings of Paul. The Spirit leads and directs our lives on this earth.
As Christians, we have to remain available to the promptings of the Spirit. The Spirit leads us towards God. We have to ponder on the words of Jesus and we need the Spirit to help us understand God’s revelation in our daily lives.
How do we receive inspiration for our life? Isn’t that the Holy Spirit?
Lord fill us with the Spirit of Truth Amen
19thMay 2020, Tuesday of the 6th Week of Easter
Acts 16: 22-34
Psalms 137:1-2, 2-3, 7-8
John 16: 5-11
Hello friends in Jesus, welcome to the show 2 Minutes with the lord
Jesus in an intimate moment with the apostles at the last supper announces his departure from this earth. He gives a gift of the Spirit to the world. The disciples feel in their hearts a sense of sorrow. Jesus assures them that even if he is going he will send the Spirit to comfort the world.
Jesus wanted his disciples first and foremost to believe in Him.
I have come across a beautiful story of a mother who is going to work in another country. She is leaving her children behind. Now before leaving she tries to comfort her children by telling them that she would be back within a short time. She wants her children to believe in her.
Jesus consoles his disciples that he will be away for a little time and they will see him again. The departure will cause pain but with the Holy Spirit, they will experience joy.
Paul and Silas suffer for the Christ’s sake. They are beaten and put in prison. In the night, they experience the presence of God. The prison in charge becomes a witness to this grace of God and later on, he and his household become a believer in Jesus Christ.
What a joy we experience when we have a deep faith in Jesus…
My dear friends Jesus wants us to give everything he has from the Father. Let us pray today that we become life witnesses like Paul and Silas Amen
Acts 16: 11-15
Psalms 149: 1-6,9
John 15: 28-16:4
Hello friends in Jesus, welcome to the show 2 Minutes with the lord
Today Paul sets out on a journey to European shores. He finds new ways to explore and expand the church in an unknown land. It was a difficult task for him. The Holy Spirit opens the heart of a woman named Lydia, the first believer in Europe who allows herself to be touched by God’s Word.
As a faithful, she listens to the teaching of Paul and welcomes him. She becomes a believer in Jesus Christ. Jesus promised the Holy Spirit to all of us. We can see the grace of God working in the lives of Lydia and Paul. Lydia allows the Holy Spirit to enter her life. She becomes a witness.
Jesus also says that the Holy Spirit will testify on my behalf. The Holy Spirit is a true comforter. He comforts each one of us.
Paul as a missionary, a witness of Jesus gives testimony to Lydia about the wonders the Lord has done in his life.
Lydia, a believer in Jesus experiences the Spirit of Truth in her life. Both of testify to the work of the Spirit through their life.
As Christians, we experience this Spirit in our own lives and we have to testify to this Spirit. Becoming living witnesses in Jesus name.
The only criteria to experience the Spirit is to remain open in our hearts and mind. We need to set example so that people can see the work of the Spirit in our life
Oh Holy Spirit, come and touch our lives, renew us in Jesus name Amen.
Acts 8:5-8, 14-17
Psalms 65: 1-3, 4-5, 6-7, 16-20
1 Peter 3:15-18
John 14:15-21
Hello friends in Jesus, welcome hope you are enjoying 2 minutes with the Lord.
We all have travelled in a vehicle that runs on fuel. The vehicle needs fuel to start and go to any destination. Before the fuel gets over in the vehicle, we go to a fuel station to fill the tank. Now suppose you are travelling in a vehicle and suddenly you run out of fuel. Your vehicle stops on a highway with no fuel station nearby.
Now we have got a situation at hand to deal with.
Many of us today face a similar situation in the world. We are worried about our live fuel running out due to lot of restrictions amidst COVID 19 pandemic. Many of us are in lock down, no free movements. Some of us are tensed of our jobs and businesses. There is an uncertainty gripping our lives. Even our mental health has been affected.
My dear friends, we have a powerful God, if he closes one door he opens another. Remember His word in the gospel today to us that he will never leave us orphan. Jesus makes a promise of the Holy Spirit. He will give each one of us a Holy Spirit in our hearts. We need to trust and believe in Him.
Today we can count the blessings of God in our life.
Holy Spirit nourishes us, strengthens us, protects us and cares for us. The Spirit of God is active and alive in our life. It is the Holy Spirit, which gives meaning to our Christian life. As followers of Jesus, we need to continuously pray so that the Spirit inspires us. We are not alone and let us not stop half way but pray to God for a better life to come.
Lord give us your Spirit Amen
Acts 16: 1-10
Psalms 99:2-6, 8
John 15:18-21
Hello friends in Jesus Hope you are enjoying 2 Minutes with the Lord
We make a lot of choices in life. Sometime the choices we make may seem right and sometimes it may be wrong. We never stop making choices in life even though they are right or wrong. We go on making simple and complex choices that shapes our life.
The disciples had made a choice of following Jesus. They felt great joy to be with Him when he taught them to pray and gave them discourse about life. They felt satisfied when he fed the hungry and cared for the poor. The company of Jesus was a `right choice for them as he performed miracles in front of their eyes.
But later on when Jesus was persecuted and crucified they were fearful. The death of Jesus on the cross must have made them think of this as a wrong choice. Yet they continued their mission of making Jesus known to the world.
Today the disciples stand at a crossroad when they hear Jesus say, if the world hates us be aware it hated me before. If they persecuted me, they will persecute you.
Is it a bad choice to follow Jesus?
We come across a man who never regrets for the choice he made in life to follow Jesus. Paul shows us that in spite of persecutions, trials and temptations he continues his mission mandate. The hardships bring in a greater zeal to follow Jesus. The Holy Spirit guides him in his missionary journey to different towns and cities.
As Christians, we should never think that we have made a bad choice in life. We have to become aware of the situation. We may not be able to return the same old situation but we can have faith and trust in Jesus that he will bring new possibilities for our life. Take time to think of your life and the choices you made in them. Surrender everything to Jesus.
Lord help us to listen to the Holy Spirit in life. Amen
Acts 15:22-31
Psalms 56: 8-10, 12
John 15:12-17
Hello friends in Jesus, Welcome to the show 2 minutes with the Lord
There was a serious debate at Jerusalem to accommodate the Gentiles into Christianity as they brought along with them new practices that weren’t acceptable to the Jewish Christians. The members of the Jerusalem Council gave a welcoming mandate for the work of Paul and Barnabas among the Gentiles. We could see the Holy Spirit working through them.
Although the Council changed a few rules but they agreed to welcome Gentile Christians. Along with the new norms they sent two disciples with Paul and Barnabas to the newly established Church.
It is so beautiful to see the spirit of generosity and accommodation from the co-workers in the Lord’s vineyard.
Jesus wanted his disciples to be filled with the Spirit of love. The early church was prompt in responding to the situation and welcoming new followers with open arms.
Jesus as a master never called his apostles as servants but as friends. As a Christian, I am a friend of Jesus.
How does one live his life as a friend of Jesus?
Living one’s life as a friend of Jesus is to love the other. Care and help the poor and needy, look after the sick and suffering.
I never chose this privilege to be a friend of Jesus. He gave me this opportunity to be his friend. So as a friend of Jesus we enter into this friendship to bear fruit by obeying the commandments. This friendship brings commitment to love as Jesus loved.
Lord Jesus give us the grace to love one another Amen
Acts 1:15-17, 20-26
Psalms 112:1-8
John 15: 9-17
Hello friends in Jesus, Hope you are enjoying 2 minutes with the Lord
Once the apostles established the early church and started preaching the good news around many towns and cities, they felt a great need to select an apostle, to replace Judas
Therefore, Peter and other apostles addressed the gathering of 120 people who were life witnesses from Jesus’ baptism to his Ascension. One would be chosen from these 120 to fill in the place of the 12th apostle.
They wanted a person who led an upright life obeying the commandments, which Jesus had given to them. They cast lots and it fell on Matthias who became the apostle. We celebrate the feast of Matthias the least-known apostle of Jesus.
We do not have any historical evidence of his mention in the Synoptic Gospels but various traditions mention his existence as a follower of Jesus and later as a faithful apostle preaching the good news in Cappadocia and the adjoining regions of Caspian Sea.
Jesus had instructed his apostles to abide in his love. What does this abide in my love exactly mean?
As Christians, we have to understand the measure of God’s love. The love that God has for each one of us. We have received numerous blessings from him throughout life.
Abiding in God’s love would mean to remain or dwell in his presence. According to my understanding, we are persons in this super-fast world we get caught up with so many things that we fail to remain in his love.
If we remain in his love, we experience renewal and joy. We start following the commandments of Jesus and if we don’t, then our lives become more complicated, complacent and chaotic. We need the love of Jesus in our lives.
Lord Jesus we want to abide in your love Amen.
Acts 15: 1-6
Psalms 121: 1-4, 4-5
John 15:1-8
Hello friends in Jesus, Welcome to the show 2 Minutes with the Lord
It is so beautiful to see a tree grow according its rules and spread across their branches up high.
If you have been to the vineyard, you can see many trees being pruned by the vine grower.
What is this pruning all about?
Pruning is the most important process of growth. A vine-grower knows about the trees growth and the fruit production structure. Pruning involves removing the unwanted selective branches, which brings healthy growth to a tree.
Jesus today says, I am the true vine and my father is the vine grower. The vine grower knows the exact time and technique to remove the unwanted branches that don’t bear much fruit. He prunes the branches which can bear good fruits.
If we abide in Jesus, we are sure to bear fruit in abundance but if we don’t abide in him we are sure not to produce anything. If we listen to the word of God then that Word of God ought to bear fruit in our lives. Jesus clearly says that apart from Him we can do nothing.
As Christians, we have to cut away the branches of greed, jealousy, selfishness, anger, hatred, gossip and so on from within ourselves and abide ourselves in love, honesty, peace, faithfulness and justice. This is the sign of being an abiding disciple of Jesus Christ.
What are the branches that you want to prune and cut off?
Lord we want to abide in you Amen
Acts 14: 19-28
Psalm 144: 10-13, 21
John 14: 27-31
My dear friends in Jesus. Hope you are enjoying 2 Minutes with the Lord
The path that we choose or decide to walk in life has hardships and challenges. When we move on this path we come to a realisation should we give up half-way through or go on to complete the journey. Paul and Barnabas had taken a similar path, which led them to persecution and even death.
As a follower of Jesus Christ, Paul is stoned and dragged out of the city to die. He doesn’t give up. He continues his missionary journey by going to another town and city. We all know this quote by Rev. Robert Schuller -Tough times don’t last but tough people do
I have come across a real life experience of a Christian couple married for more than 25 years. As a young couple living both were government teachers in a town school. They were sincere and truthful following the values of Jesus. Their loving and honest nature wasn’t well received by others who were corrupt. They were verbally threatened, transferred from jobs a number of times and disturbed by locals but they stood their ground as faithful witnesses of Jesus Christ. Today they are joyful and feel contented to have done their job well. They have become well-respected citizens of the town.
The peace of Jesus reflects in the lives of people who are faithful and committed to being disciples of Jesus He will show us the way that may lead to struggle because he too has gone through Calvary experience but in the end, we will have peace and joy that he promised to us.
Lord Jesus show the way Amen
Acts 14:5-18
Psalms 113:1-4, 15-16
John 14: 21-26
Hello friends in Jesus, I welcome you all for 2 Minutes with the Lord
Love is the most basic emotion or feeling in us. We are loving human beings who seek affection from others. God has created us in a way that we ought to love one another. When we truly love someone, we want to show him or her that our love brings joy in his or her life. We want to demonstrate our love to the other through acts of kindness.
Love does not expect anything in return but it gives out everything.
We shall take time today to remember our loved ones
Jesus speaks of love in the Gospel. He says those who love me will keep my commandments. Jesus loved his disciples and revealed his love to them. He further goes on to say, if you love me my Father will also love you.
As loving children of God, we need to keep the commandments. It was love for God that prompted Paul and Barnabas to set out on a mission of preaching the Good news. They received the Holy Spirit and in faith, they could perform miracles. Their love for God never ceased.
As Christians, Do I love God ?
The command Jesus gave us is very relevant in times of crisis and chaos that is around us.
Love one another as I have loved you
It shouldn’t be that we should only care for ourselves but reach out in love to anyone in need that make us truly loving children of God. Hope we find relevance in these words of Jesus.
Lord Jesus teach us to love one another Amen
Acts 6:1-7
Psalms 32: 1-2, 4-5, 18-19
1 Peter 2:4-9
John 14:1-12
Hello friends in Jesus, I welcome you all for 2 minutes with the Lord
We face a lot of circumstances in life that do not seem to be in our control. We cannot fix them either as we wish or want. We have put a lot of effort but these situations leaves us disturbed or irritated when they go out of hand. There is a troubled feeling.
Jesus makes a striking statement by saying, “Do not let your hearts be troubled” Jesus was on his final journey before his death and he announces departure to his apostles.
Right now, what is going on in Jesus mind? And what are the apostles thinking?
Jesus convinces his apostles to believe in God the Father who has been with them throughout their journey and the apostles feel worried about their safety and security in this world.
Jesus anticipates his final journey through these loving words of trust and hope.
One thing for sure, all of us have insecurities in life that make our hearts troubled. Troubled feelings can harm our day-to-day living, relationships, job, and study and so on.
They can challenge our faith as well.
Do not let these feeling overpower you. As Christians, we need to find joy in Jesus. He is promising eternity. Having faith in Him can give you a courage. Remember that God made a promise to humanity, all things work together for good to those who love and serve him faithfully Rom 8:28
Let us continue to keep courage and help one another in need like these apostles.
O Lord we pray for your mercy and compassion Amen.
Acts 13:44-52
Psalms 97: 1-3, 3-4
John 14:7-14
Hello friends in Jesus. Welcome, hope you are enjoying 2 Minutes with the Lord
Our life is full of events containing success and failure Success makes us joyful, failure makes us sad. We have all experienced it as reality. You can call it a fact of life.
Imagine today – The events of your life where you had success and even failures
We have Paul and Barnabas in the same situation. Their message of Jesus Christ wasn’t well received among the Jews but on the other hand the Gentiles received it joyfully. Both of them never gave up during their failure but continued with great zeal and vigour the proclamation of the message that brought them success.
Common friends, what do you say?
Do failures put you down in life?
Surely, they do, but that should not keep us down because as a believer in Jesus we ought to know God is with us.
Jesus answers Philip about the presence of God in our lives. Jesus is the face of the invisible God. He made known to us that a perfect communion that exists between God and Him. We have to believe in Jesus who shows God’s love and care to each one of us.
God’s love is unconditional. If you have queries about life. Jesus says to us, Ask God in prayer.
As Christians, let us build a deep communion in God through our prayer. Like Paul and Barnabas we can endure hostile situations in our life if we believe in Jesus.
Lord Jesus I ask in your name to heal each one of us. Amen
Acts 13:26-33
Psalms 2:6-11
John 14:1-6
Hello friends in Jesus, Welcome to the show 2 minutes with the Lord.
Paul a man of conviction a devout Jew filled with the Holy Spirit continues his powerful preaching at the synagogue. He carries the message of Jesus to an unknown town and place. It must have been a tedious task to preach to people about Jesus and such a teaching coming from a scholarly Jew like Paul. Many people must have been upset and disturbed at his teachings. Yet Paul was convinced with what he preached.
What is our conviction in Jesus Christ?
The Gospel message that Jesus gives us today is central to our faith. Jesus articulating the message, I am the Way, the Truth and the Life
Jesus Christ as the Messiah taught his apostles a beautiful lesson on these three words
Firstly, Jesus as the Way means He shares a life giving love that of sacrifice and service which we, as disciples should follow.
Secondly, Jesus as the Truth means He shared a perfect relationship with Abba and showed the world that a true relationship exists between God and human beings
Thirdly, Jesus as the Life means He gave his life for the world and continues to nourish our life every day through the Church, Sacraments and the Word of God.
As Christians, we have to surrender to him and say, Lord Help us to believe in The Way, the Truth and Life. We need conviction like Paul to follow Jesus only then we can say Lord let not allow our hearts to be troubled
Lord Jesus be our strength and support Amen
Acts 13:13-25
Psalms 88:2-3, 21-22, 25, 27
John 13:16-20
Hello friends in Jesus, Welcome Hope you are enjoying two minutes with the Lord
Every event occurred in the past and the information about the event can be considered History
We have Apostle Paul briefing the synagogue crowd about the salvation history. He tells them the history of Israelites in the land of Egypt. Their movement in the wilderness to the Promised Land, the era of judges and prophets to the reign of King Saul and David.
Paul inserts the story of the precursor John the Baptist who came to bring the good news of Jesus the Messiah. The apostle Paul creates a historic memory of inserting Jesus into Jewish timeline.
God intervenes in the lives of people and God has been there from beginning of time. God has been with the people in their joys and sorrows. God has a plan for each one of us in the past, present and future of our own lives.
Meanwhile Jesus in the Gospel explains about the greatness of being a disciple. Jesus envisions a discipleship with humility and faith in God. He calls the disciple to be a servant in order to be great.
As Christians, Let us have a look at the history of our own lives. Right now, the present is so uncertain with the events happening around us. The past is a memory with so many beautiful events in our life. The future is so bleak with learning new ways to respond to the situation.
In this entire episode, God is in control, the presence of God in our life is eternal. We have to lead ourselves to Him to seek answers about our life.
Lord Jesus show us the way Amen
Acts 12:24-13:15
Psalms 66:2-3, 5-6, 8
Gospel John 12:44-50
My dear friends in Jesus Christ Welcome to the show 2 minutes with the Lord. The proclamation of the Good News by the disciples of Jesus Christ after his resurrection is a heroic story. Paul and Barnabas return to Jerusalem after fulfilling a mission journey. They continue to fast and pray along with the community. While doing this the Holy Spirit inspires the community and anoints Paul and Barnabas to a specific mission. This call to a special mission would change the course of their lives. The words used today in the first reading are ‘Set Apart’
Set apart would mean to commit oneself totally to the Lord.
Jesus says, I have come as light into the world so that everyone who believes in me should not remain in darkness.
The praying community along with Paul and Barnabas believed in Jesus. We know for sure that the disciples set apart carried the message of Jesus Christ far and wide to the people. The light of Christ shines out in the work carried out by Apostle Paul and Barnabas.
We are in social distancing and many places are under lock down due to the pandemic. Like Paul and Barnabas can we carry the light of Christ to the people during these times of isolation, While we work from home, when we text or chat or attend online calls. When we send mails or message on social networking sites. When we spend time with our family.
We can bring cheer in the lives of people around us. A Christian is always set apart to carry the light of Christ to the world. We are a called to do good all the time. To give the love of Jesus to everyone in need.
Lord Jesus bless each one of us to do your will Amen
Acts 11: 19-26
Psalms 86: 1-3, 4-5, 6-7
John 10: 22-30
Hello friends in Jesus. Welcome to the show 2 minutes in the Lord.
Let me read the last sentence of today’s first reading. It was in Antioch that the disciples were first called Christians. It was a time of persecution and martyrdom. If anyone was found to be a Christian it would mean he or she had committed a crime. They were accused, criticised, persecuted and stoned to death. The early church had to undergo such chaos and crisis for being a Jesus follower.
It was in the early church that the missionary discipleship emerged with Barnabas and Paul who travelled on long journeys to make the message of Jesus Christ known far and wide among the people.
Barnabas was a grace filled person with the Holy Spirit and was faithful in his mission. He preached the good news and later on persuaded Paul to accompany him to Antioch. They worked wonders among the early Christian community about God’s love.
If one believes in Jesus Christ, we can hear his voice and follow him. He gives eternal life to those whom he calls. Jesus calls each one of us to be his true followers.
How do we really know that we are truly followers of Jesus Christ ?
Jesus wants every believer to live a life worthy of being called by him. Our faith in Jesus Christ should never lessen in our trials and troubles. The missionary commitment of Paul and Barnabas as well as the conviction of first Christian community should remind us of our call to witness Christ
Lord Jesus may we become true Christians Amen
Acts 11:1-18
Psalm 41:2, 3; 42, 3,4
John 10:11-18
Hello friends in Jesus. Welcome to the show 2 minutes in the Lord.
The Good Shepherd model may sound very old to most of us. We do not see many shepherds in cities and towns. We aren’t able to experience what it means to be a shepherd.
Let us have a look at the history of the Bible. Many prominent figures were shepherds. Abel-son of Adam, Joseph, Moses and David
Jesus calls himself as a shepherd. We all know that according to his family profession he was a carpenter.
Why did Jesus call himself a Good shepherd?
Jesus as Good Shepherd in the Gospel today having three qualities
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Loving Shepherd: Jesus loves the sheep. He is not like the one who is hired to care for the sheep. The hired hand runs away during danger but the shepherd stays back to protect the sheep and he will lay down his life.
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Caring Shepherd: He cares for the sheep. He feeds for them He knows what the sheep requires and provides for them from time to time.
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Ever living Shepherd: Jesus gives the assurance that this relationship with the sheep is eternal He is not a temporary shepherd that we need. We need the presence of Jesus in our life.
As Christians, we need to deepen our trust in the Good Shepherd. Jesus comes with open arms to love us. We need also to ponder on few questions
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What is my response to Good Shepherd?
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Do I act like a Good Shepherd ? Hired Hand ? or like the Wolves?
Lord Jesus give us the courage to follow you Amen
Acts 2: 36-41
Psalms 22:1-6
1 Peter 2: 20-25
John 10:1-10
Hello friends in Jesus. Welcome to the show 2 Minutes with the Lord. Today we celebrate Good Shepherd Sunday and Vocation Sunday
In today’s digital world, all of us have become mere numbers. We have mobile numbers, bank account numbers, and insurance policy numbers. The Government in India knows us by Aadhar card Numbers and the list does not stop here it continues with PAN Card number, Driver’s License number, and so on.
Can you imagine whether anyone knows us without number?
Today in the Gospel Reading, we hear about Good Shepherd who knows us by name. He calls his own sheep by name.
A man once asked a little shepherd boy who had hundreds of sheep. Have you ever counted your sheep? He said ‘No’ the man further asked then, how do you know they are not lost on the way? The boy said I know each one’s name and I call them they listen to my voice and come to me.
My dear friends, the sheep and shepherd have a mutual bond of love, trust and understanding. Jesus is our good shepherd he calls us to listen to his voice. We get so busy and caught up in life that we fail to listen to him. We are stolen away by the worries and miseries of the world.
Today he gives an invitation to have life in abundance. We need to have obedience and believe in the Jesus Our Good Shepherd for he is our guide and protector.
We need to have a personal relationship with Jesus listening to him and praying to him. Following his example as Good Shepherd can we become like him in our family, church, and the society.
Lord Jesus Our Good Shepherd we want to follow you. Amen
Acts 9:31-42
Psalm 115:12-17
John 6:60-69
My dear friends in Jesus. Welcome to the show 2 minutes with the Lord
We all know the apostle Peter, a close associate of Jesus beloved of the Lord and the first to recognize Jesus as Messiah and Lord. He had the opportunity most of the time whenever a miracle was performed to be present with Jesus.
Yet he was the one who denied Jesus three times, he left Jesus during his passion, failed a few times to believe. He failed to live what he believed about following Jesus.
However, Jesus saw a great potential in this man. He wanted to build his entire teaching on Peter. Jesus calls Peter the Rock. He knew Peter would be the most loyal and genuine apostle of faith. He would become the Rock of Christianity.
The readings of the day highlight Peter’s healing ministry. He heals a man bedridden for 8 years and later visits to raise a woman from dead at Joppa.
How did Peter receive this grace to do great things?
It was Peter’s faith in risen Jesus that enabled him to do wonders. His expression of faith – Lord to whom shall we go. You have the words of eternal life.
As Christians, we need faith commitment in the Risen Lord. We are weak, fragile and broken but our faith and trust in Risen Christ should never diminish. He invites us to a personal faith journey. Like Peter from an ordinary fisherman to the rock of Christianity. Shall we take a deep plunge and renew our faith journey.
Lord make us strong in our faith like Peter Amen
Gen 1:26-2:3
Psalm 90:2, 3, 4, 12-13
Matthew 13:54-58
Hello friends in Jesus, welcome to the show 2 Minutes with the Lord
Today we celebrate a saint filled with faith and courage. He doesn’t speak anything in the Bible. He listens to God’s voice with great conviction. He was always obedient to his duties and responsibilities. Yes dear friends we celebrate the feast of St. Joseph the Worker.
It was in the year 1955 that Pope Pius XII instituted the feast of St. Joseph the Worker. First of May is also called as May Day, a special day for labourers and workers. This feast invites us to have dignity and value for work
St. Joseph, the carpenter was a role model for hard work and commitment as a daily labourer. He toiled to provide for Mary and Jesus. God our creator created this beautiful world and keeps creating. He calls humanity to labour and care for this world. This feast is the realization of human beings as working people who labour for livelihood.
St. Joseph as a silent and just man carried out his work with honesty and integrity. As a simple carpenter by profession, he was obedient to God, a caring spouse to Mary, a loving father to Jesus and a man of action for the society. By his daily labour, he built the Holy family of Nazareth.
As Christians, we need to practice social justice like St. Joseph We need to earn our livelihood for our families through hard work offer services to church and society, care for creation and fellow human beings, remain obedient to God’s will in our life.
Let us pray through the intercession of St. Joseph to bless our work that we do to earn our livelihood Amen.
Acts 8:26-40
Psalms 65:8-9, 16-17, 20
John 6:44-51
Go into all the world and proclaim the good news. Hello friends in Jesus, welcome to the show 2 Minutes with the Lord.
Time Travel has been an important story in many science fiction Movies and books. I have been fascinated to hear time travel stories. Have you ever considered time travel in your life.
May be travelling to the past or pushing a fast forward into the future. We feel so thrilled to watch or listen to such stories on time travel
Many scientists have been long exploring the possibilities of time travel. There have been many theories written down to invent time travel, this hasn’t had many breakthroughs for more than a century.
Today we have a time traveller in the first reading, the apostle Philip who was led by the Spirit to proclaim the good news of Jesus Christ. We can call to mind many theories of teleportation or spiritual intuition and so on.
Philip explains to the Ethiopian eunuch about the Scripture and baptizes him in water and Spirit. Suddenly the Spirit leads Philip to another place. Our first hand expression would be a Wow. The whole event looks magic.
We may not be literally travelling through time but as human beings, we are time travellers. We move forward in time every second. Even as Christians we travel back and forth in time understanding, the mysteries of Christian life while reading the Word of God, in the celebration of the Eucharist and the sacraments, while sharing the salvation history and the church history.
The Spirit is so powerful it leads us just like Philip to understand the words of Jesus and to proclaim to the world through our words and action.
Lord Jesus give us your spirit and lead us Amen
Acts 8:1-8
Psalms 65:1-3, 4-7
John 6:35-40
Cry out with joy to the Lord all the earth.
Hello friends in Jesus, you are with me on the show 2 Minutes with the Lord.
Let me ask you a question.. What does it mean to hunger for God?
It is not literally that I am asking we should starve for God. Remember for the eyes of your faith as Christians. To hunger for God means to feed on the words of Jesus Christ, the bread of life.
The Word of God enriches and nourishes our soul. Human beings by nature are hungry they crave for something physical, emotional, intellectual and spiritual nourishment. It is not only food and water that we desire but accolades and laurels, victories, power, position and so on. Now Jesus in the Gospel today tells us that all those who believe in me will never hunger or thirst. God alone can give us nourishment. We need spiritual nourishment for our soul. Deep within our hearts, we long for our Creator and Jesus is the solution to overcome all earthly desires and be satisfied in God.
When our spiritual hunger and thirst are satisfied in God we don’t desire anything- if it isn’t satisfied we find many hungry elements disturbing us- greed, jealousy for one another in community, society, church parish, envy search for power position, money and so on.
Our soul should long for Jesus our Saviour who came to do the will of the Father and today he is giving you an offer to satisfy your hunger and quench your thirst in him.
Are Christians we ready?
Lord Jesus satisfy our hunger and quench our thirst Amen.
Acts 7: 51-8:1
Psalms 30: 3-4, 6-8, 18-21
John 6:30-35
Lord be a rock of refuge for me, a mighty stronghold to save me
Hello friends in Jesus, You are with me on the show 2 Minutes with the Lord
We continue the interaction between Jesus and the crowd who were demanding a sign from Jesus so that they believe. They even cite the example of the wilderness where their ancestors received manna.
Jesus clarifies their doubts by giving a clear answer to the queries. There is a missing thread in the attitude of the crowd. They were seeking a sign from Jesus to believe in him.
Jesus had already given a sign in the miracle of feeding the five thousand when he multiplied the bread. The bread became a sign of sharing. God gave a gift to the people who were hungry in the desert in the Old Testament and now Jesus making it a self-giving nourishment.
Jesus goes on to say I am the bread of life. An invitation to enter a relationship with Him. Once we accept this relationship, we will receive nourishment as he cares for us.
Christian Life is a union in Jesus Christ. Believing in him means to participate in the gift of life given by God through Jesus Christ. I cherish the prayer that we recite every day and Jesus teaches it.
Give us today our daily bread. Asking Abba Father to take care of our needs as human beings.
Lord Jesus we long for the bread that you always give us Amen
Acts 6: 8-15
Psalm 118: 23-24, 26-27, 29-30
John 6:22-29
They are happy whose life is blameless
Hello friends in Jesus, You are with me on the show 2 Minutes with the Lord
The crowds believed in the miracle of Jesus feeding the five thousand. The after effect of the event takes a larger picture in the gospel. Jesus had satisfied their physical hunger and now they were eager to meet him to seek more temporary benefits. Jesus out rightly questions them as he knows their intentions. They came in search of him because he performed the miracle and not because they knew him as Jesus.
The crowd gave priority to material benefit rather than spiritual benefits. Jesus wanted them to move beyond physical needs.
There is a clear distinction between what God gives and what God is.
In our day-to-day life, we need to search Jesus to satisfy our spiritual hunger. We need to seek him as he is. God in all His mercy and compassion provides for our need. We should not make those needs as an excuse to search for God.
Do not work for the food that perishes but for the food that endures eternal life.
What do I seek from Jesus?
As Christians we have to seek Jesus not as a miracle performer or as the one who provides for material needs. He is our Lord believe in him. He cares for us unconditionally. As a believer we can accomplish the works of God if we trust in him.
Lord we pray to seek you and you alone. Amen
26th April 2020, Sunday of the 3rd Week of Easter
Acts 2: 14, 22-33
Psalms 15: 1-2, 5, 7-8, 9-11
1 Peter 1:17-21
Luke 24: 13-35
Preserve me O lord, I take refuge in you
Hello friends in Jesus, You are with me on the show 2 Minutes with the Lord
The Emmaus journey contains many perspectives of life. We can look at the characters of the journey. Cleopas and another person walking towards Emmaus with dejection. Their life broken and shattered with the death of Jesus. They must have thought Jesus the redeemer would save Israel. Even the news of he being alive wasn’t so convincing. They were moving away from the epicentre of the event. The second character is the stranger whom they meet on the way. The stranger doesn’t reveal his identity. He starts explaining the scripture to them. He feels that the two haven’t recognized me.
He stays with them for dinner and their eyes open when he breaks the bread at the table. The stranger is Jesus.
Focus your attention to the feelings of these characters during this whole journey because this inspirational encounter reflects our own lives too.
Cleopas and the other person: filled with disappointment, despair, confusion, sorrow
The stranger gives warmth, understanding, touches their heart and offers friendship
Once the disciples recognize him their hearts burn, they are filled with joy to share the good news.
The risen traveller comes into our busy, messy and complicated lives. He walks beside us. When our lives our broken and shattered he offers unconditional love and peace. As sinful human beings, we feel his presence in our life. Once we recognize him, our hearts burn to share the good news. As he broke himself for us, we are called as Christians to break ourselves for others.
Lord may our encounter with Risen Jesus enable us to be at the service of others Amen
1 Peter 5: 5-14
Psalm 88: 2-3, 6-7, 16-17
Mark 16:15-20
Hello friends in Jesus, I welcome you all for 2 Minutes with the Lord.
Christian life is lived in the power and presence of our Risen Lord. When the early church experienced this fact, they started to proclaim the good news to the people around them.
Anyone touched by the love of Jesus Christ never remains static. The disciples of Jesus began to explore new ways to make the message known to the world.
To proclaim the message of God’s saving act means to have strength and conviction in one’s heart. This is not a story at all. It is a fact Jesus died and rose again, he appeared to his disciples who were alive and gave them the command to proclaim the good news. This experience makes it a reliable source.
The Evangelist Mark portrays Jesus as Son of God rejected by humanity, suffered, died and rose again by the power of God. He wants readers to believe in the good news.
Let us understand our situation today in the time of this great pandemic, St. Peter says in the first reading: Be steadfast in your faith, brothers and sisters the whole world is undergoing suffering. As Christians, our faith is not static it is dynamic.
Today take some time to experience the peace that Jesus Christ gives us and share it with our family members. Even in the times of suffering, we need peace to move on.
May the Peace of Christ be with you all Amen
Acts 5: 34-42
Psalm 26: 1, 13-14
John 6:1-15
There is one thing I ask of the Lord to live in the house of the Lord
Hello friends in Jesus, Welcome, You are on the show 2 Minutes with the Lord. Jesus became a popular figure among the people as he was doing so many miracles of healing the sick. Jesus reaches to the other side of the Sea of Galilee to withdraw from the crowd. However, the crowd do not seem to stop following him.
This scene with five thousand people fed by Jesus remains ever alive in our hearts. The options that Jesus was searching to buy bread for the people. Philip wasn’t optimistic in his approach. Andrew displays the skill of finding some resource yet not so convincing in his approach. The boy without any hesitation gives the five loaves and two fish for the greater cause of humanity. Here comes Jesus who performs the miracle of the multiplication of bread and fish.
All the four Gospels record this great miracle. We notice an action far beyond our minds can grasp in real sense. How did Jesus do it? Is he a magician?
Jesus performs an act out of mercy and compassion for the people. The boy shares out of generosity and willingness to help others. The disciples distribute the food to the people and our Abba father offers them in abundance.
As Christians, we have to offer ourselves to care for others. An act of sharing and sacrifice offered generously becomes a gift of life. We need courage to share our resources with others. It is time that we offer little things to the needy who do not have during this pandemic.
Lord Jesus help us to be generous to others. Amen
Acts 5:27-33
Psalms 33:2, 9, 17-20
John 3: 31-36
The Lord is close to the broken hearted whose Spirit is crushed he will save
Hello friends in Jesus, Welcome, You are on the show 2 Minutes with the Lord. Our God is a generous giver, he continues from time eternal to provide for the needs of the earth. To every human being he continues to provide a potential to grow. The human person has to realize the potential in life daily. It is not limited but unlimited amount of potential that we experience in life.
An all-powerful God giving us freely and asking us to respond to Him. He gave an authority to Jesus carry to earth the promise of eternal life.
Jesus came with the message from God which he says to Nicodemus
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He comes from above all
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He brings the promise of salvation. The message of the Kingdom of God
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He gives the grace of the Spirit to all those who believe in Him
How do we look at the words of Jesus today?
We need an open- attitude to embrace the message of Jesus. A believing identity is a top priority as follower of Jesus Christ to give witness and give testimony to Jesus name. Acceptance to the Holy Spirit in our life and our response as children of God. Jesus gives a beautiful message that any one who believes in the Lord will have eternal life.
Lord Jesus, give us the life giving Spirit Amen
Acts 5: 17-26
Psalms 33:2-9
John 3:16-21
I will bless the Lord at all times his praise always on my lips.
Hello friends in Jesus, Welcome. You are with me on the show 2 Minutes with the Lord. God’s love is so immense and bountiful. We experience God’s love in our own life through various people, situations and circumstances. We all have heard the quote from the Gospel of John Chapter 3:16
For God so loved the world that He gave his only Son so that everyone who believes in Him may not perish, but have eternal life. These words often resound in our hearts when we understand the depth and height of God’s love.
There is a great challenge for each one of us. We can reflect on two questions for today
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How do we measure God’s love in our life?
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How do we distribute God’s love to others?
I remembered a beautiful quote written by Rick Warren, which says, “God’s love is like the ocean, you can see its beginning but not its end."
The response to God’s love is essential priority of every human person. It comes with a free will to say yes or no. If we choose to respond with a yes, we can see miracles happening in our life. As Christians, we have been called to love one another and share God’s love to everyone. Mercy and compassion is the trademark of every disciple of Jesus.
The lesson of salvation taught to us by God is giving everything one possesses for the love of others.
Lord Jesus make us loving human beings on this earth Amen
1st Reading: Acts 4:32-37
Responsorial Psalm 91: 1-2, 5 Gospel: John 3:7-15 Hello friends in Jesus. Welcome. You are on the show 2 Minutes with the Lord. The Nicodemus episode continues as Jesus reconnects the Mosaic Law with the Son of Man. A deep sense of fascination that Nicodemus has for Jesus progresses into a newer understanding.
Jesus explains about the necessity to be born of the Holy Spirit. It is very surprising to see that Nicodemus had been exploring the credibility of Jesus’ teaching. The Lord himself speaks about the authority that he has descended with from God. Nicodemus had never expected such a teaching coming from Jesus.
The most surprising statement emerges from Jesus as he counter questions Nicodemus’ understanding of law as teacher of Israel. It ends with a striking statement that Jesus says about himself that the Son of Man will, save the world by his death on the cross.
Jesus becomes a spiritual catalyst for Nicodemus initiating a transformation and connecting him with God. As Christians, we need to recognize the power of Jesus in our life. He has given us the Holy Spirit that guides us daily to live a life.
We need to rise above our pre understanding of God and explore new ways to connect to him
Lord Jesus make us your disciples to grow in the Spirit Amen.
Acts 4: 23-31
Psalm 2: 1-9
John 3:1-8
Blessed are they who put their trust in God
Hello friends in Jesus, Welcome to the show 2 Minutes with the Lord
A well-known Pharisee name Nicodemus seeks to meet Jesus and learn more about the mysteries of faith that baffle him. Does he come for an interview or to sit at the feet of Jesus as a disciple? A late night conversation takes place with Jesus the teacher. He never wanted to be noticed by public.
Jesus declares himself as God and attempts to clarify the doubts. Nicodemus wants a heavenly inheritance and finds that resounding in the teachings of Jesus. Jesus tells Nicodemus that birth in water and spirit is essential to enter the kingdom of God.
Both debate in two worldviews Nicodemus with an earthly perception and Jesus on a heavenly realm. Their worlds collide in this enriching encounter.
What Nicodemus need is a spiritual re-birth?
A spiritual re-birth changes the actions and attitude of human person. The spirit gifts us a new life. Once we receive the spirit, our potentials, values and inner core of being transforms into newness. As Christians we have been born in water and Spirit now we all need a spiritual re-birth to see beyond our earthly abilities
Lord Jesus give us an encounter to understand the Spirit and be born again
Amen
Acts 2: 42-47
Psalm 117: 2-4, 13-15, 22-24
1 Peter 1: 3-9
John 20: 19-31
My dear friends in Jesus. Welcome to the show. 2 Minutes with the Lord.
Today is Divine Mercy Sunday. Pope St. John Paul II made an announcement on April 30, 2000 that the church should celebrate the Sunday following Easter as the feast of Divine Mercy.
What is the feast of Divine Mercy?
A Catholic devotion started by St. Faustina. It was a series of visions and apparitions of Jesus Christ seen through her eyes and written in her diary. Sr. Faustina wrote in her diary that the Lord desires a Feast of Divine Mercy be celebrated in the church.
What do we do on this feast?
We are called to repent for our sins and ask forgiveness. Going for a confession. Placing complete trust in Jesus. Receive Holy Communion, Be merciful to others through our action, words and prayers, venerate the image of Divine Mercy
The Image of Divine Mercy which St. Faustina saw in her vision illustrates as Jesus clothed in white garment, his right hand raised in blessing and left hand touching the garment, two large rays coming from it one in red and one in pale white describing blood and water gushing from the heart of Jesus for the souls
Chaplet of Mercy
The Divine Mercy novena prayer has been recited as a prayer of mercy. We can recite this chaplet usually at 3o Clock remembering the Passion, Death and Suffering of Jesus Christ, Our Merciful Lord and Saviour.
This year we are in lock down but still we can celebrate the feast
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Recite Divine Mercy Chaplet in your families or communities
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Pray for Lord’s Mercy on the whole world that is suffering in this Pandemic
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Have a special devotion and Adoration at 3o Clock asking for mercy.
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Do acts of mercy for the people suffering in your neighbourhood.
For the sake of Jesus sorrowful passion
Abba Father, Have Mercy on us and the whole world
Acts 4: 13-21
Psalm 117: 1, 14-21
Mark 16:9-15
My dear friends in Jesus Christ, Welcome. Hope you are enjoying 2 Minutes with the Lord.
Today we have three appearances of Jesus post-resurrection, which are mentioned in the Gospel. The witness scenario progresses from the place where Jesus was buried to the city that housed the disciples. The number of witnesses increase from Mary Magdalene, the 2 disciples at Emmaus and now the apostles.
Jesus gives a preaching mandate to the apostles to go on and proclaim the Gospel. The apostles now empowered by the experience of Risen Jesus reach out to share it with others.
Faith received through witnessing Risen Jesus enables the apostles to go out with full vigour and energy. It was not a sad news but Good News that Christ is risen. Sharing one’s faith to the world is sharing the happiness that is within one’s heart. Mary Magdalene and the disciples at Emmaus danced with joy when they encountered Risen Jesus and now the apostles do the same.
As Christians, we have a responsibility to share the good news of Jesus to others. We can be happy, joyful, loving and merciful if we have been touched by his presence. Experiencing God’s love in our life is a gift that transforms us.
Just remember the word ‘Christian’, Am I truly one of them?
Lord Jesus, help us to grow in your spirit when we experience Christ in our hearts. Amen
Acts 4: 1-12 Psalm 117: 1, 2, 4, 22-27 John 21:1-14 Hello friends in Jesus, Welcome to the show 2 Minutes with the Lord. Give thanks to the Lord for He is good for His love has no end Following the instructions of Jesus, the apostles go to Galilee where the story of discipleship began. It was here that Jesus asked them to follow Him. They have reached back to start anew. Simon Peter with others decides to go on a fishing spree whole night but catches nothing. Jesus appears again to give them in abundance. After a good catch, Jesus offers an invitation to the apostles to join in for a breakfast along the seashore. Now what do we have for breakfast? Grilled fish prepared by Jesus with some bread. Jesus has been appearing to the disciples at regular intervals after the resurrection. The apostles had abandoned Jesus at his passion but Jesus shows his eternal friendship towards them. Starting a new chapter in life would require revisiting the past and planning a vision for future. This Galilee gathering post resurrection means a recovery time to rethink of a mission plan. Any setback, loss, pain and suffering needs a healing moment. Jesus exactly knew and made sure his friends receive it. As Christians let us all together reflect on these hard moments, we are in. This pandemic can be a recovery time to envision a plan for life. The blessings of Risen Jesus fill our life to rebuild our faith, hope, family, work, and relationships so that we can receive healing. Lord Jesus visit us and bless us in our difficult times. Amen
Acts 3: 11-26
Psalm 8: 2, 5-9
Luke 24: 35-48
Hello friends in Jesus, You are on the show 2 Minutes with the Lord
How great is your name, O Lord our God through all the earth.
The resurrection event rewrites history. The disciples on the road to Emmaus go back to bear witness to Risen Jesus and behold Jesus make his presence known among the apostles. The greetings of Jesus resound in our ears. In the midst of such chaos, He says, Peace be with you. The disciples still have a doubt whether the presence of Jesus is real? or is it a ghost?
Jesus deliberately has to show his hands and feet. He also asks them something to eat. Jesus invites his apostles to touch him and feel his wounds.
The confirmation of Jesus being risen had to be appealing to the apostles. The Risen Lord wanted his apostles to understand the resurrection event. It is through their faith and bearing witness to Him that humanity could understand the Risen Lord. Jesus revisits history in order to rewrite it with his beloved apostles.
Christians over many generations have kept alive the spirit of resurrection. In spite of difficulties, trials and problems they have carried the good news of Risen Lord.
As disciples of Jesus, we proclaim the good news like his apostles. We have to become witnesses to his name. Jesus comes to us when we are in deep trouble and he says “Peace be with you.”
Lord may be become peace makers to witness your name Amen
Acts 3:1-10
Psalm 101: 1-4, 6-9
Luke 24:13-35
Hello friends in Jesus, welcome to the show 2 Minutes with the Lord
The Emmaus encounter between the two disciples and the Risen Lord is a heart transforming experience.
The disciples were sad and filled with remorse by the events that occurred a couple of days ago. They were moving out of Jerusalem to Emmaus. A stranger joins them on this journey. As they go on discussing, the events the stranger begins a conversation with them.
He explains the Scripture to them. This journey with all hope lost becomes a pilgrimage of faith. This conversation amidst loss and grief re-establishes their hope. The disciples felt as if the whole world was tumbling down and suddenly they receive a life-giving message. Who is this stranger? A scholar, a learned man, a member of the council.
The disciples recognize him in the Breaking of the Bread. Risen Jesus opens their mind and hearts to the truth. Surely, their hearts were burning when he spoke to them.
The Emmaus experience is a journey of faith. When we are at loss in life, feel sorrowful, when we have difficult hurdles and painful memories. When we feel hope is far away. The Risen Lord offers us a walk of faith. He walks beside us showing us the right path. We have to recognize him.
Lord we need an Emmaus journey in our life so that we can renew our faith commitment with you. Amen.
Acts 2: 36-14
Psalm 32: 4-5, 18-19, 20-22
John 20:11-18
Hello friends in Jesus, Welcome to the show 2 Minutes with the Lord
Easter joy is so promising that it takes away all our grief and sorrow. Mary Magdalene went in search of Jesus body at the tomb so that she could spend some time with him. She had a hope that she could get a glimpse of him. Tears rolled down through her eyes as she struggled to cope up with the fact that the Jesus body was taken away.
Mary began a search in and around the tomb. She could hardly recognize Jesus until he called her by name. At once her tears stopped. She felt a great joy within herself by the presence of Jesus around her.
Mary became the witness to the Risen Lord. She could feel the nearness of Jesus in her life. Her grief and sorrow transformed into joy with the visible proximity of the Saviour. Now she sets forth to proclaim the Good News.
As Christians, we experience the powerful presence of Risen Christ in our lives. The joy of Easter should transform us. Each one of us share a unique relationship with Jesus like that as of Mary Magdalene. We need to search for Him, and when we find Him, we need to bear witness. He surely calls us by name.
Lord Jesus we thank you for your powerful presence among us. Amen.
Acts 2:14, 22-33 Psalm 15:1-2, 5, 7-11 Matthew 28:8-15 Hello friends in Jesus, welcome to the show 2 Minutes with the Lord Jesus Christ is risen! Wow what a great reaction to the resurrection of Jesus. Indeed, we feel privileged every year to re-enact this great mystery of salvation. Easter makes us living testimonies of Christian Faith. The disciples of Jesus begin a new chapter in their lives after Jesus has risen. The frightened disciples who hid themselves in fear from the public purview now find strength and hope to face every possible situation. Jesus would soon appear to them in Galilee and different places to help them find a deeper meaning into the mystery of resurrection. On the other hand, the chief priests and elders have a plan of refuting the claims of Risen Jesus made by the disciples. Therefore, they are busy in devising plans. What God has done today is inexpressible. Easter is God’s love for humanity and he does not abandoned us. God is in full control of the situation. He is the author of life. He wants us not to lose hope in times of trials and tribulations. When we are facing the grim situation around us. We feel this situation is beyond our control. Everything seems to be dead and dying. Remember Jesus is Risen, God’s love is life giving and God will make a way. We have to believe in the Risen Lord Amen
Gospel : Matthew 28:1-10
Hello friends in Jesus, Welcome to the show 2 Minutes with the Lord
After the Calvary episode, there is calm and silence. We are mourning the death of our Lord and Saviour. We have hope in our hearts that Jesus will rise again.
As we await to celebrate, the greatest feast in the Church, which is primarily the foundation of Christian faith –The Easter
Secondly, when Jesus rose from the dead he guaranteed our resurrection too. This feast gives us eternal hope in Jesus our Redeemer and Lord.
We have many reasons to believe the resurrection of Jesus as debated and proved by many theologians, biblical scholars and historians about the empty tomb, the appearance of Jesus to his disciples and followers, the transformation in the disciples and the conversion of St. Paul and others.
Resurrection of Jesus changes everything for the disciples of Jesus. They begin to see new grounds to make known the message of Jesus to the world. It is a joyful experience to be in company with the Risen Lord.
Easter promises us that Jesus emerged victorious by defeating death. He will transform our lives if we hope in him. We renew our baptismal promises and remind ourselves of Jesus as light of the world when the Easter Candle is lit as we watch on television the online Mass.
Easter is hope in the everlasting eternal promises of our Lord who has shown us by his resurrection. Let the Risen Lord renew and transform the world. Amen
I wish you all a happy and promising Easter
Isaiah 52: 13- 53: 12 Psalm 30: 2, 6, 12,13, 15-17, 25 Hebrews 4: 14-16; 5:7-9 John 18: 1-19; 42, Hello friends in Jesus, we are in lockdown and the humanity around us continues to suffer. We pray for the people suffering around us. Today Jesus sets out on the road of suffering, agony, pain and trial- The Road to Calvary. Walking on this road carrying a heavy cross on the shoulders, thorns on the head, soldiers beating and thrashing and Jesus yelling with excruciating pain. This picture comes to our minds today. It must have been a traumatic experience in reality. Calvary being a place of nightmare and Jesus was taken there to be crucified on the cross. The nails being hit hard on his hands and legs. He was forcefully pinned on the cross. Jesus completes his earthly mission dying on the cross. The death on the cross though shameful opens for Christians a greater promise of God that is victory over death in spite of pain and agony. The cross becomes a symbol of strength in those moments of desolation and distress when we have lost our hope. Our Saviour died on it to save us. Today the world fights the pandemic Corona Virus, we are on the road of suffering, pain, agony and distress. We are confused with our life, we feel disillusioned and hope seems far away. We have found no breakthroughs in medicine to save us for this pandemic. Our minds are filled with the suffering around us, many have lost their lives. Just take some time to look at the cross and hang on….because God will make a way Lord for the sake of his sorrowful passion, have mercy on us and on the whole world Amen.
Exodus 12: 1-8, 11-14
Psalm 115: 12-13, 15-18
1 Cor 11:23-26
John 13: 1-15
Hello friends in Jesus, you are on the show 2 Minutes with the Lord. We are in the time of physical distancing. Let us be close to the Lord in these times.
We celebrate Holy Thursday, which is a special day when Jesus performs an eternal moment in time and space. This moment is celebrated in eternity several times since 2000 years or more and continues to be timeless.
An act immemorial in time- Jesus institutes the Holy Eucharist, celebrates a meal with his beloved disciples and tell us “Do this in remembrance of me”
He washes the feet of his disciples and gives a mandate of love and service. “For you also should do to others what I have done to you?”
The breaking of the bread is a saving act of Jesus totally motivated by his love. A self-sacrificial parting gift given to us to be celebrated.
The act of saving humanity consists also in challenging us to obey his command of washing the feet of others. A gesture of service, self-giving in total humility for others.
The Institution of the Eucharist and the Commandment of Love and Service transcends time. And he said: “Do this in memory of me”
Lord as disciples of the Lord give us a beautiful heart to love and care for others. Amen
First Reading Isaiah 50: 4-9,
Psalm 68:8-10, 21-22, 31, 33-34
Gospel Matthew 26:14-25
Hello Friends in Jesus
Today is the Wednesday of the Holy Week. We come to a revealing conclusion of the person of Judas Iscariot who betrays Jesus for thirty pieces of silver. Why did this betrayal happen?
Was it power that prompted Judas? On the other hand, was it the wealth that he could gain?
There is a possibility that the ideology of Jesus did not attract Judas anymore. His expectations of Jesus were not fulfilled by his experience of him in reality. The charisma of Jesus did not appeal or outweigh the reality perceived in the mind of Judas.
He failed to see Jesus as a Servant Lord and Servant King. But Jesus was aware of the pain that this betrayal would cause him. Yet he continues to fulfill the mandate of the Lord.
We as weak human beings fail in many ways to perceive the real self of others. We judge them according to our perception rather than the truth. The relationship between Jesus and Judas is a beautiful mirroring image to look into our self.
Lord allow us to understand our own self and enable us to understand others instead of judging them. Amen
Palm Sunday is a special time to reflect on the sufferings of Jesus Christ- Passion, Death and Resurrection.