Breaking the Word

Thursday after Epiphany –  06^th January 2022 — Gospel: Luke 4,14-22

In God’s name

Jesus emphatically presents his mission manifesto. He announces the coming of the kingdom of God and all that it entails by reading the prophet Isaiah. He states that loving God is not possible without loving and liberating one’s neighbour from the clutches of all oppressions. He even names those of his neighbours whose voice is never heard in the society: firstly, ‘the poor’ who were socially neglected and economically oppressed. Secondly, ‘the imprisoned’ who were politically marginalized and thrown into prison. Thirdly, ‘the blind’ who were emotionally tormented and ostracized. Fourthly, ‘the downtrodden’ who were humiliated and alienated from every aspect of life. Jesus dated to love his neighbours and opted to work for their liberation in God’s name.

Wednesday after Epiphany – 05^th January 2022 — Gospel: Mark 6,45-52

Presence of the Man of Peace

Today’s Gospel follows on the heels of yesterday’s feeding of the thousands. Even though the disciples of Jesus had experienced the feeding, they do not fully comprehend its meaning. They have an experience of that fear which is present when one does not fully “know” the love of God. Jesus sends his disciples across the lake by boat and doesn’t go with them. A strong storm blows around their boat and its being tossed about by the winds. Even though at least four of the disciples of Jesus are experienced fishers, yet they panic as fear of drowning comes on them. They are not yet perfect in love, so they fear until love comes walking to them on the water. Love incarnate casts out all their fears as He speaks to them and to the storm. Presence of the Man of Peace restores calmness not only to the storm, but their fears as well. Focusing on the Love of God overcomes fear.