The Sacred Pit: A Place of Suffering and Hope

Daily Gospel: Luke 21:12-19

Jesus said to the crowd: “They will seize and persecute you, they will hand you over to the synagogues and to prisons, and they will have you led before kings and governors because of my name. It will lead to your giving testimony. Remember, you are not to prepare your defence beforehand, for I myself shall give you a wisdom in speaking that all your adversaries will be powerless to resist or refute. You will even be handed over by parents, brothers, relatives, and friends, and they will put some of you to death. You will be hated by all because of my name, but not a hair on your head will be destroyed. By your perseverance you will secure your lives.”

Reflection: The Sacred Pit: A Place of Suffering and Hope

The Sacred Pit, a dimly lit chamber beneath the Church of St. Peter in Gallicantu in Jerusalem, is believed to be the very place where Jesus was imprisoned the night before his crucifixion. We had the privilege of visiting this historic site in the summer of last year.

I chose this image as a reminder of the Gospel reading for today from St. Luke 21:12-19. While Jesus warned his disciples of the trials and tribulations they would face, including persecution, betrayal, and even death, He Himself experienced first-hand the harsh conditions of this small and dark chamber before His own crucifixion.

Jesus explicitly stated that his followers will be persecuted and betrayed and it will come from within, with family members and friends turning against them. But, amidst this forecast, He offers a message of hope and endurance. He assured them that not a hair on their heads will be lost, suggesting divine protection and ultimate victory.

While we may not face the same level of physical persecution as Jesus and His disciples, we still encounter trials and tribulations in our daily lives. These can range from workplace discrimination and family disagreements to social exclusion based on our beliefs.

This calls us to embrace our own cross, sharing in Christ's suffering and trusting in God's control, even in the darkest of times. With God's grace, we can overcome any obstacle. By reflecting on these verses, we can draw strength and inspiration to face whatever challenges may come our way.

A Lesson in True Generosity

Daily Gospel: Luke 21:1-4

When Jesus looked up he saw some wealthy people putting their offerings into the treasury and he noticed a poor widow putting in two small coins. He said, “I tell you truly, this poor widow put in more than all the rest; for those others have all made offerings from their surplus wealth, but she, from her poverty, has offered her whole livelihood.”

Reflection: A Lesson in True Generosity

Today's Gospel reading from St. Luke paints an intense picture of a poor widow who, with humble faith, offered two small coins to God at the temple. As Jesus observed this act of selfless devotion, He praised her offering, declaring that she had given more than all the wealthy people who had cast large sums into the treasury. These wealthy individuals, with their abundant resources, had merely given a fraction of their wealth. In contrast, the widow had given her all. Her offering, born from a heart overflowing with love and faith, was a testament to her unwavering trust in God's providence.

This story has made me reflect deeply on my own relationship with God. Am I truly generous with Him? Do I give Him my best, or do I merely offer the scraps that are left over after I've taken care of myself? The widow's sacrifice challenges me to examine my own heart and to consider the true meaning of generosity. She, despite her poverty, gave everything she had to live on. Her act of faith was a powerful statement, a testament to the depth of her love for God. It's an absolute contrast to my own offerings, which often feel more like a token gesture rather than a heartfelt sacrifice.

This story calls me to a deeper level of commitment. It challenges me to re-evaluate my priorities and to make God the centre of my life. I'm inspired by the widow's example and I'm determined to follow her lead. I want to give my best to God, no matter the cost. I want to offer Him my 4 T's (time, talents, treasures and testimonies). I want to love Him with all my heart, mind, and soul.

Learning from Jesus' Tears

Daily Gospel: Luke 19:41-44

As Jesus drew near Jerusalem, he saw the city and wept over it, saying, “If this day you only knew what makes for peace–but now it is hidden from your eyes. For the days are coming upon you when your enemies will raise a palisade against you; they will encircle you and hem you in on all sides. They will smash you to the ground and your children within you, and they will not leave one stone upon another within you because you did not recognize the time of your visitation.”

Reflection: Learning from Jesus' Tears

In the picture above is the Church of Dominus Flevit (“The Lord Wept” in Latin). The Church is located on the western slope of the Mount of Olives and marks the place where Jesus wept over Jerusalem in Luke 19:41-44. The church was built in 1953 to commemorate Jesus' triumphal entry to the city. As you'll see in the picture, the church is made in the form of a teardrop to commemorate the spot where Jesus wept. We went there in a pilgrimage over a year ago.

As I pondered this passage, I was struck by Jesus' deep love and compassion for Jerusalem, despite its impending destruction. His tears were not merely a response to the city's physical demise, but a lament for the spiritual blindness that had overtaken its people, a blindness that prevented them from recognizing and embracing God's mercy.

Reflecting on my own heart, I am confronted with the reality of my own limitations. How often do I fail to see the world through God's eyes? Do I truly love others as Jesus loves them, even when they are difficult to love? Am I willing to share in the sorrows of those who mourn and the joys of those who celebrate?

Inspired by Jesus' example, I am called to prayer. To intercede for my fellow human beings, my brethren, and to lift up those who are broken, suffering, or lost. May I strive to see the world as Jesus sees it, filled with divine love and infinite mercy.

The Sycamore Tree: A Symbol of Faith and Renewal

Daily Gospel: Luke 19:1-10

He entered Jericho and was passing through. And there was a man named Zacchaeus; he was a chief tax collector, and rich. And he sought to see who Jesus was, but could not, on account of the crowd, because he was small of stature. So he ran on ahead and climbed up into a sycamore tree to see him, for he was to pass that way. And when Jesus came to the place, he looked up and said to him, "Zacchaeus, make haste and come down; for I must stay at your house today." So he made haste and came down, and received him joyfully. And when they saw it they all murmured, "He has gone in to be the guest of a man who is a sinner." And Zacchaeus stood and said to the Lord, "Behold, Lord, the half of my goods I give to the poor; and if I have defrauded any one of anything, I restore it fourfold." And Jesus said to him, "Today salvation has come to this house, since he also is a son of Abraham. For the Son of man came to seek and to save the lost."

Reflection: The Sycamore Tree: A Symbol of Faith and Renewal

The weathered sycamore tree, pictured above, is believed to be the very one Zacchaeus climbed to catch a glimpse of Jesus. We had the privilege of seeing this historic site during our pilgrimage to the Holy Land over a year ago. As we passed by on our way to Jericho, we couldn't help but reflect on the powerful story that unfolded in this very spot.

Gazing upon this ancient sycamore tree, I’m filled with a sense of inspiration. Zacchaeus, a man of humble stature, yearned to see Jesus. Despite the packed crowd of people, he persevered, climbing the tree to gain a better view. In our own lives, we often find ourselves overwhelmed by the chaos of daily existence: demanding work, tight schedules, and anxious thoughts. It's easy to lose sight of what truly matters. This historic tree serves as a reminder to pause, reflect, and seek a higher purpose. May we, like Zacchaeus, strive to rise above life's challenges and find solace in the presence of God.

Zacchaeus’s story doesn’t end with his meeting with Jesus. Inspired by the divine encounter, he committed to a life of repentance and renewal. He not only sought forgiveness but also extended an invitation to Jesus to share a meal at his home. This powerful act challenges us to go beyond mere contemplation and take concrete steps towards personal transformation. As we deepen our faith, we must accompany it with actions that reflect our commitment to God. By renouncing our sins and making amends for past wrongs, we create space for Christ to reign supreme in our hearts and lives.

Open wide our hearts, Lord, and make them your eternal home. We welcome your presence, your guidance, and your love. May your light illuminate our lives and transform us from deep within.

We Are All Blind

Daily Gospel: Luke 18:35-43

As Jesus approached Jericho, a blind man was sitting by the roadside begging. When he heard the crowd going by, he asked what was happening. They told him, “Jesus of Nazareth is passing by.”

He called out, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!”

Those who led the way rebuked him and told him to be quiet, but he shouted all the more, “Son of David, have mercy on me!”

Jesus stopped and ordered the man to be brought to him. When he came near, Jesus asked him, “What do you want me to do for you?”

“Lord, I want to see,” he replied.

Jesus said to him, “Receive your sight; your faith has healed you.” Immediately he received his sight and followed Jesus, praising God. When all the people saw it, they also praised God.

Reflection: We Are All Blind

Have you ever felt lost, like a blind man stumbling in the dark? I have. We all have. In today’s Gospel, we read about a blind man who, despite his physical limitation, possessed a profound faith that moved Jesus to heal him. This story resonates with me deeply, for I believe we are all spiritually blind in our own way.

We are blinded by the world's distractions, by our own selfishness and pride. We focus on material possessions, on social status, and on personal achievements. We forget the true meaning of life, the love of God, and the purpose He has for us. We limit God to our own understanding, forgetting His infinite power and love.

But just like the blind man, we can cry out to Jesus, seeking His healing touch. We can persevere in our faith, even when it seems hopeless. We can trust in His mercy and grace.

When we turn to Jesus, we receive the gift of spiritual sight. We begin to see the world through His eyes, with love, compassion, and forgiveness. We experience the peace that surpasses all understanding, the joy that fills our hearts, and the hope that sustains us.

Let us not be content with our spiritual blindness. Let us seek the Lord with all our hearts. Let us call upon His name and trust in His promises. For He is always there, ready to heal our wounds and guide our steps.

As the Gospel reminds us, God is not confined to our limited understanding. He is infinitely greater than we can imagine. He is a loving and merciful God, always willing to forgive and restore. So let us open our hearts to Him, and let His light shine through us.

Lost Years, Found Words

It has been a decade since I last chronicled the lives of my dearest Keiron and Kayla. These two, my precious gems, my inspirations and the loves of my life, have blossomed from young children into remarkable individuals. As I ponder the passage of time, I yearn to relive those lost years, to capture their essence in words. If only I could turn back the clock and preserve those precious memories.

Writing and I seem to have a fickle relationship. Life’s demands pull me in different directions, and this essential part of me is forgotten. It’s a shame that I let this blog fall by the wayside. But now, as I reconnect with it, a wave of nostalgia washes over me, stirring the memories of the past.

It's a bittersweet reflection to realize that I've neglected to journal our lives for the past eleven years. Countless important milestones have slipped through my fingers. The journey has been filled with twists and turns, both triumphs and setbacks, joy and sorrow, and the delicate dance of relationships.

Keiron, once a vibrant, outgoing boy, has retreated into a shell. The once-friendly little fellow is now a timid teenager, lost in his own digital world. His days outside school revolve around his phone, a solitary pursuit that has replaced the joy of human interaction. While I understand the allure of technology, it pains me to see my son isolated most of the time.

Yet, beneath this introverted façade, the sweet boy I know still exists. He still offers me the occasional hug and kiss, a precious reminder of the innocence he once possessed. How different from his sister, who has embraced adulthood with a certain detachment. The girl I once knew, eager for affection, is now a self-conscious young woman.

It's heart-breaking to witness these transformations. The children I once held in my arms are now navigating the complexities of adolescence and adulthood. As a parent, I can only hope that they find their way, even as I grapple with the bittersweet reality of change.

Kayla, on the other hand, remains the life of the party. Her social calendar is packed, and she’s constantly immersed in the company of friends. Her life is a whirlwind of social events, filled with endless group chats and meetings. This year alone, she’s already made multiple trips to Edinburgh for weddings, a testament to her expansive social circle. 

Her involvement in YFC and SFC has undoubtedly shaped her into the outgoing, compassionate young woman she is today. These communities have not only provided her with a strong support system but have also deepened her faith. It’s heart-warming to see how her Catholic faith has flourished. 

I could write volumes about these two extraordinary individuals. One blog post simply won’t suffice to capture their essence. I long to delve deeper into their lives, to share their passions, their struggles, and their triumphs. I want to explore their evolving faith, their unique personalities, and the intricate details of their daily lives.

Above all, I cherish them beyond measure. They are my heart and soul, my greatest treasures. I vow to love and support them unconditionally, always. As I sit here, penning these words, a sense of peace washes over me. The joy of writing has returned, and I’m eager to share more of our story with the world.

Heaven on Earth

Daily Gospel: Luke 17:20-25

Asked by the Pharisees when the Kingdom of God would come, Jesus said in reply, "The coming of the Kingdom of God cannot be observed, and no one will announce, 'Look, here it is,' or, 'There it is.' For behold, the Kingdom of God is among you."

Then he said to his disciples, "The days will come when you will long to see one of the days of the Son of Man, but you will not see it. There will be those who will say to you, 'Look, there he is,' or 'Look, here he is.' Do not go off, do not run in pursuit. For just as lightning flashes and lights up the sky from one side to the other, so will the Son of Man be in his day. But first he must suffer greatly and be rejected by this generation."

Reflection: Heaven On Earth

Have you ever wondered when the Kingdom of God will come? Many people throughout history have pondered this question. Jesus, however, offered a surprising answer: "The Kingdom of God is among you" (Luke 17:21). This profound truth challenges us to reimagine what it means to live a life of faith.

We may be tempted to look for grand signs or distant prophecies, but the Kingdom of God is not a future event. It's a present reality, a spiritual realm that breaks into our world. It's found in the quiet moments of prayer, the acts of service we perform, and the love we share with one another.

St. Therese of Lisieux, one of my favourite saints, beautifully captured this idea: "I will do my heaven by doing good on earth." She understood that heaven begins here and now, in the ordinary moments of our lives. When we choose to love our neighbour, forgive our enemies, and live with compassion, we are participating in the building of God's Kingdom.

Let us embrace this truth and live as citizens of heaven. Let us seek to love as Jesus loved, to serve as Jesus served, and to forgive as Jesus forgave. By doing so, we will not only experience the joy of the Kingdom of God in our own lives but also bring hope and healing to the world around us.

Remember, the Kingdom of God is not a distant dream; it's a present reality. Let us embrace it today and live as children of God.

A Love Story, Quietly Told

I've often wondered why I haven’t written more about my incredible wife. Perhaps it’s the quiet comfort of our love, a bond so deep that it needs no grand declarations. Or maybe it’s the simple truth that words often fall short when trying to capture the essence of such a profound love.

The reason I find myself at a loss for words, perhaps, is the very depth of our connection. We're so comfortable in each other's presence, so intertwined in our lives, that expressing our love sometimes feels unnecessary. She is more than a wife; she is my best friend, my comforter, and my lover.

Twenty-three years of shared experiences have forged an unbreakable bond. We've weathered life's storms together, each trial strengthening our love. From the joyous celebrations to the heart-wrenching sorrows, she has been my constant, my unwavering support. We've faced challenges that seemed insurmountable, yet emerged stronger, our love the enduring force that carried us through.

Perhaps my love language isn't words of affirmation. Maybe it's the quiet gestures, the knowing looks, the silent understanding that passes between us. But today, I want to break that silence, to express the gratitude and love that fills my heart.

God has truly blessed us. Through our involvement in CFC Couples for Christ, we've deepened our spiritual connection, fostering a love for the Lord that has blossomed into a profound love for each other. This shared faith has strengthened our family bonds, drawing us closer to our children, parents, and loved ones. We've found solace in the community, surrounded by fellow believers who understand and support us. It's a reminder that we are not alone on this journey, that we need each other to grow and mature as Christians and as individuals.

Our shared faith has been the cornerstone of our relationship. It's the invisible thread that binds us together, a source of strength and relief. We've found comfort in the rhythm of our prayers, our voices united in praise and supplication. Through the Rosary, we've journeyed together, seeking divine guidance and peace daily.

In the quiet moments of doubt and fear, we've turned to each other, offering words of encouragement and unwavering support. Our shared belief has allowed us to forgive and forget, to let go of the past and embrace the future. It's a love that is both earthly and divine, a love that knows no bounds. I trust her with my life, knowing that she will always be there, a beacon of hope in the darkest of times.

She is the heart of our home, tirelessly working to help me provide for our needs. She sacrifices her own time and energy, often working longer hours than I do, all while caring for our children and managing the household. Despite the countless responsibilities, she rarely complains. She faces every challenge with a positive attitude, always striving to do her best for our family. I am eternally grateful for her love, her support, and her unwavering dedication. Words cannot express the depth of my admiration for her.

I thought I would be at a loss for words, but as I go deeper into my heart, I find an abundance of emotions pouring forth. It's easy to express gratitude when the recipient is so deserving. My love for my wife is unwavering, a love that transcends the boundaries of time and circumstance. I pray that the Almighty grants me the grace to be her protector, her provider, her love, forever. And when the time comes, may I be the first to leave this world, for I fear I cannot bear the pain of a life without her.

A Burdened Heart, A Forgiving Soul

Daily Gospel: Luke 17:1-6

Jesus said to his disciples, "Things that cause sin will inevitably occur, but woe to the one through whom they occur. It would be better for him if a millstone were put around his neck and he be thrown into the sea than for him to cause one of these little ones to sin. Be on your guard! If your brother sins, rebuke him; and if he repents, forgive him. And if he wrongs you seven times in one day and returns to you seven times saying, 'I am sorry,' you should forgive him."

And the Apostles said to the Lord, "Increase our faith." The Lord replied, "If you have faith the size of a mustard seed, you would say to this mulberry tree, 'Be uprooted and planted in the sea,' and it would obey you."

Reflection: A Burdened Heart, A Forgiving Soul

As I dived into Luke 17:1-6, I couldn't shake the weight of Jesus' words. The image of someone being cast into the sea, burdened by the weight of sin, was a strong reminder of the destructive power of our choices. It made me ponder the many times I've unintentionally led others astray, a heavy millstone to bear.

Yet, amidst this reality, Jesus extends an extraordinary invitation: to forgive not just seven times, but seventy-seven times. It's a call to let go of resentment, to release the grip of bitterness, and to embrace the freedom that comes from forgiveness.

I've often struggled with this. How can I possibly forgive someone who has deeply hurt me? But Jesus' command challenges me to rise above my own pain and extend grace, just as God has extended grace to me.

The disciples, too, struggled with this concept. They asked Jesus to increase their faith. In response, He used the powerful image of a mustard seed. Even the tiniest seed, when nurtured, can grow into a mighty tree. This simple truth reminds me that even a small amount of faith, when blessed with God's power, can move mountains.

As I reflect on these verses, I'm challenged to examine my own heart. Am I truly willing to take responsibility for my actions and their impact on others? Am I quick to forgive, even when it's difficult? Do I trust in God's power to work in my life, even when hope seems lost? By embracing the teachings of Jesus, I can experience the transformative power of His love and grace. Jesus, I trust in You!

A Parable of Dishonesty

Daily Gospel: Luke 16:1-8

Then he also said to his disciples, “A rich man had a steward who was reported to him for squandering his property. He summoned him and said, ‘What is this I hear about you? Prepare a full account of your stewardship, because you can no longer be my steward.’ The steward said to himself, ‘What shall I do, now that my master is taking the position of steward away from me? I am not strong enough to dig and I am ashamed to beg. I know what I shall do so that, when I am removed from the stewardship, they may welcome me into their homes.’ He called in his master’s debtors one by one. To the first he said, ‘How much do you owe my master?’ He replied, ‘One hundred measures of olive oil.’ He said to him, ‘Here is your promissory note. Sit down and quickly write one for fifty.’ Then to another he said, ‘And you, how much do you owe?’ He replied, ‘One hundred measures of wheat.’ He said to him, ‘Here is your promissory note; write one for eighty.’ And the master commended that dishonest steward for acting prudently.

Reflection: A Parable of Dishonesty

In St. Luke's Gospel, we encounter a parable that might seem to endorse dishonesty. However, a deeper reflection reveals a message about stewardship, accountability, and the importance of using worldly resources wisely.

The Gospel today presents a story about a dishonest manager who, facing dismissal, cleverly manipulates his master's debtors to secure future favour. Jesus uses this parable to teach a profound spiritual lesson.

The manager, despite his dishonesty, is a steward of his master's resources. This only means everyone is accountable for what they have been given, whether it's material possessions, talents, or opportunities.

Jesus commends the manager's judgement, not his dishonesty. This emphasizes the importance of using worldly wisdom to secure eternal rewards.

The ultimate goal is not to amass earthly wealth here on earth but to gain heavenly treasures. The manager's actions, though morally questionable, serve as a cautionary tale about the need to prioritize spiritual values over material ones.

The parable highlights the idea that we will be held accountable for how we use our resources. This includes not only material possessions but also our time and talent.

While the parable of the dishonest manager may seem confound, it offers valuable insights into the nature of responsible stewardship, to use our resources wisely and to recognise that they are ultimately from God. We are being reminded to be mindful of our actions and its consequences, both in this life and the next. Lastly, the pursuit of eternal rewards, for us to prioritise spiritual wealth over material gain. By understanding the deeper meaning of this parable, we can strive to be faithful stewards of all that God has entrusted to us.

Capturing the Essence of London

Have you ever crossed Lambeth Bridge? Many times before, I've strolled across its sturdy span, each time finding a new detail to admire, a fresh perspective to capture.

It's more than just a bridge; it's a gateway to London's heart. As you walk, you're immersed in a symphony of sights and sounds. The Thames River glistens and the London Eye twirls in the distance. It's a scene that never fails to awe me. 

I love the way the bridge transforms with the seasons. In the spring, the riverbanks burst with life, and the bridge becomes a vibrant corridor. In the autumn, the leaves turn golden, casting a warm glow on the water. And in the winter, the city lights reflect on the river, creating a magical atmosphere.

Whether you're a local or a visitor, I highly recommend taking a moment to appreciate the beauty of Lambeth Bridge. It's a hidden gem, a piece of London's soul.

This picture won me a competition. It is truly an iconic bridge worth exploring!

A Divine Meeting Place

 

The Upper Room, as you see in the picture is a sacred site in Jerusalem for us Christians. It holds a significant place in Christian history. It is believed to be the location of several pivotal events in the life of Jesus Christ and His disciples.

Here are some of the key events associated with the Upper Room:

• The Last Supper: The most famous event connected to the Upper Room is the Last Supper, where Jesus shared a final meal with His disciples before His crucifixion. During this meal, Jesus instituted the Eucharist, a central sacrament in the Catholic Church.

• Pentecost: After Jesus' ascension, the disciples gathered in the Upper Room to pray and await the Holy Spirit. On the day of the Pentecost, the Holy Spirit descended upon them in the form of tongues of fire, empowering them to preach the Gospel to all nations.

• Early Christian Community: The Upper Room served as a gathering place for the early Christian community, where they prayed, studied the scripture, and shared their faith.

Today, the Upper Room is a significant pilgrimage site not only for Catholics but for all Christians worldwide. We were lucky to have visited the place before the war started last year in 2024. It symbolizes the power of faith, hope, and love. It reminds us of the transformative power of the Holy Spirit and the enduring legacy of Jesus Christ. As we reflect on the events that took place in this sacred space, we are inspired to deepen our own spiritual journey and strive to live as true followers of Christ. May God be praised!