Readings: Exodus 40:16-21,34-38, Ps. 84:3-6,8,11, Matthew 13:47-53
“How lovely is thy dwelling place, O Lord of hosts! My soul longs, yea, faints for the courts of the Lord; my heart and flesh sing for joy to the living God.” (Psalm 84:1-2)
In today’s First Reading, we read, “Then the cloud covered the meeting tent, and the glory of the Lord filled the Dwelling. Moses could not enter the meeting tent because the cloud settled down upon it, and the glory of the Lord filled the Dwelling.” The Israelites had the privilege of seeing the glory of God in the form of a thick cloud.
If only God could open our eyes to see his glory, ascending and descending upon the Tabernacle, we would not be able to contain ourselves as the Psalmist sings. “My soul longs and yearns to be in God’s presence. A day in God’s house is better than a thousand elsewhere!” I would rather dwell in the foot mats of God’s house than have a three-bedroom suite in the devil’s mansion.
Jesus compares the kingdom of heaven to a net thrown into the river and catches both big and small fish. This parable is similar to that of the weeds and wheat. In the church, you have all kinds of people; those who are there to worship God and those who are there to steal, kill and destroy; those who are there to repent (and begin a new life) and those who are there to recruit souls for the devil; those who are there to better their lives and those who are there to attack, divide and cause a commotion.
By giving us the parable of the dragnet, Jesus is saying that even if you are a small fish, God will give you a second chance to grow into a big fish. This is why the fishermen throw back the small fish into the river. Do you remember Ananias and Sapphira? What sin did they commit that warranted their immediate deaths? They told lies.
We cannot deny that we have said greater lies, yet God is merciful to us. He continues to spare our lives. Just as small fish are returned to the river, God offers us daily second chances to repent, mature, and realise our potential for His kingdom. Don’t wait till it’s too late.
St. Ignatius Loyola, born Inigo Lopez de Loyola in 1491 in Loiola, Spain, hailed from a noble family and dreamed of becoming a distinguished military leader. Inspired by heroic stories, he joined the army and served under the Duke of Nájera. In 1521, during the battle of Pamplona, he was severely injured by a cannonball to his legs, leading to a long and painful recovery that changed his life’s direction.
During his bedridden days, Ignatius immersed himself in religious writings, including 'De Vita Christi,' which profoundly influenced his spiritual journey. He began visualising himself in the presence of Christ, a practice that later became the foundation of his spiritual exercises. As he regained his health, he chose to pursue a life devoted to Christ rather than seeking worldly glory.
In 1522, Ignatius abandoned his military ambitions and retreated to the Benedictine monastery of Santa Maria de Montserrat, adopting an ascetic lifestyle in Manresa. Recognising the need for education to effectively spread the Gospel, Ignatius continued his studies in Barcelona, Alcala, Salamanca and the University of Paris. There, he formed friendships with Peter Faber and Francis Xavier, collaborating on developing his spiritual exercises.
In 1540, they were officially established as the Society of Jesus, also known as the Jesuits. Although initially hesitant, Ignatius became their first leader. Under Ignatius’ leadership, the Jesuits adopted a disciplined approach similar to his military background. Their dedication to education led to the establishment of 35 schools before he died in 1556. The Jesuits played a significant role in countering the Protestant Reformation and are celebrated today for their global educational initiatives. St. Ignatius Loyola was beatified in 1609 and canonised in 1622. His feast day is celebrated on July 31, and he is the patron saint of the Society of Jesus, soldiers, educators, and education.
Let us pray: Almighty, ever-living God, help us to increase our love and devotion to you. We ask this through Our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God forever and ever. Amen.
Be Happy. Live Positive. Have Faith. It is well with you. May God’s abundant blessings be upon us all. (Saint Ignatius Loyola, Priest. Liturgical Colour: White. Bible Study: Exodus 40:16-21,34-38, Ps. 84:3-6,8,11, Matthew 13:47-53)
@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu