Lenten message of Pope Francis based on Fratelli Tutti No.122
The right of some to free
enterprise or market freedom cannot supersede respect for the natural environment.
TODAY'S WORD
By
Fr. Aloysius Santiago sdb
Rector and Parish Priest
Don Bosco Shrine
Lingarajapuram, Bangalore
John: 8:24 "I told you that you would die in your sins, for you will die in your sins unless you believe that I am He.”
TODAY'S REFLECTION
In this fast-moving and busy world, to be patient is truly a virtue.
But in a place where it is lacking in water and food, to be patient is really a test of endurance and character.
In the 1st reading, the people travelling through the wilderness lost patience and they spoke against God and Moses.
It was not that there was no food or water, but it was just enough for their sustenance and they were complaining of being sick of the unsatisfying food.
But it was God's turn to lose patience with His people, and He punished them by sending fiery serpents to bite them.
Though God is merciful and compassionate and He forgives us when we sin, let us also not put God to the test.
In the Gospel, the Jews were again at war with Jesus. They would not accept him for who he said he was.
They asked him pointedly, “Who are you?” Jesus told them that they would know who he was when they would have lifted him up as Moses did the serpent in the wilderness.
Through his crucifixion, Jesus would accomplish the salvation of the entire human race, including those Jews who refused to accept him.
When we face difficulties in life, instead of complaining and grumbling, let us first be grateful and be thankful for the blessings that we have received from God.
To be aware of God's blessings and to be thankful is indeed a great virtue.
RESOLUTION
Let's resolve to be humble and to be thankful when the going is difficult.
Have a nice safe day
Let's earnestly pray for a miraculous release of Fr. Stan Swamy