Joseph Osho

  Saint Jerome, Priest, Doctor   Job 1:6-22 Psalm 16(17):1-3,6-7 Luke 9:46-50 If there was a person who should complain to God was Job, a righteous man who faced immense suffering at the hands of the Evil One, raises questions about the fairness of his plight and the nature of suffering. Similarly, Jesus' proclamation of his impending suffering and death was met with disbelief from those who anticipated an earthly kingdom. Jesus emphasized the concept of greatness through humility and service, exemplified by his gesture of embracing a child. This underscores the value of selflessness and the hindrances posed by pride, jealousy, and selfish ambition. Pope Benedict XVI emphasized that humanity is destined for greatness, not comfort, and true greatness does not rely on violence. Jesus' message of doing the will of the Father through obedience and the universal salvation offered through him underscores the significance of loving God and one's neighbors. St. Augustine's port...

  Do you believe in the existence of angels ?   The belief in the existence of angels has been a topic of interest for many, with references found in biblical scriptures. Angels, described as pure spirits, serve as messengers of God, facilitating the communication and ministry between God and humanity. The Old Testament uses the term "Malak" to depict angels as "messengers," "delegates," or "ambassadors." Notable archangels such as Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael are mentioned in biblical texts, each carrying out specific divine missions. Despite historical and contemporary skepticism about the existence of angels, references to these spiritual beings are evident in sacred scriptures and teachings, including the Gospels. Pope John Paul II, in a 1986 general audience, highlighted the significance of acknowledging the world of angels, emphasizing the spiritual aspect of human existence. Furthermore, Saint Augustine's assertion that "Every vi...

  Twenty Sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year B) Num 11.25-29;  Ps 18;   Jas 5.1-6;  Mk 9.38-43, 45, 47-48 STERN WARNINGS Today’s scripture readings convey stern admonitions. The second reading by Saint James delivers severe warnings to the affluent, while the gospel issues a serious caution to all individuals, regardless of their wealth, regarding the genuine peril of facing damnation. Those who dismiss the reality of hell as a mere medieval superstition should adopt a more scriptural approach to their faith, as there are several explicit references to hell in the gospels, and there is no indication that these references should be interpreted metaphorically. It is important to recognize that hell is neither a symbol nor a metaphor. The dreadful prospect of eternal separation from God, our ultimate good and the sole source of true happiness, is something that any sensible person would do everything in their power to avoid. Fortunately, the descent into hell is a ...

  Saturday of week 25 in Ordinary Time   Ecclesiastes 11:9-12:8 Psalm 89(90):3-6,12-14,17 Luke 9:43-45 THE KNOWLEDGE OF GOD PERFECTS OUR VIRTUOUS LIFE  In today's Gospel, Jesus, accompanied by his disciples, ascends to Jerusalem and discloses to them, for the second time, his impending suffering. However, the disciples fail to comprehend the messianic revelation, indicating their incomplete understanding of his mission. It is widely acknowledged among believers that the supreme and most profound form of knowledge is the acquaintance with God, and this spiritual knowledge serves as a source of fortitude for Christians, bolstering their faith. Throughout the Scriptures, believers are frequently described as individuals enlightened and instructed by the Lord. They are said to possess an anointing from the Holy One, and it is the distinctive role of the Spirit to guide them into all truth, ultimately fostering the growth of their faith. Furthermore, knowledge acts to reinforc...

  Saint Vincent de Paul, Priest   Ecclesiastes 3:1-11 Psalm 143(144):1-4 Luke 9:18-22 CHRIST IS OUR ROCK AND SHIELD  The concept of the Messiah (Christ) has historically served as both a source of solace and bewilderment for individuals throughout the ages. In today's Gospel, we witness Peter's profound declaration of faith in response to Jesus' inquiry regarding his disciples' perception of Him. Their response not only conveys their own beliefs but also reflects the sentiments expressed in yesterday's text, where Herod attests to the execution of John the Baptist. We must affirm our faith in Jesus as the Christ of God, echoing Peter's conviction daily. However, we must introspect and question whether we genuinely hold this belief or if we remain spiritually blind akin to our predecessors. If our faith were unwavering, our lives and the world at large would ostensibly be enriched. May we seek divine grace to articulate our faith in Jesus, the Christ, not solely ...

Thursday of week 25 in Ordinary Time   Ecclesiastes 1:2-11 Psalm 89(90):3-6,12-14,17 Luke 9:7-9 LET THE DIVINE TRUTH BE YOUR DAILY GUIDE  The recent Gospel readings have underscored the contrast between the wisdom of the world and the wisdom of the Gospel, a theme that is once again evident in today’s reading. Today’s Gospel depicts Herod's awareness of the presence of Christ within his jurisdiction, as well as the public discourse surrounding Jesus. Despite His numerous signs, miracles, and teachings, the people still do not recognize Jesus as the Messiah. Instead, they perceive Him as either John the Baptist or one of the ancient prophets resurrected. This prompts us to reflect on our perception of Christ. Is He merely a virtuous individual who preached about love and moral living, or is He our Lord and Savior? Comprehending Jesus’ crucifixion as an act of redemption helps us grasp that God does not guarantee the elimination of all our adversities, but rather assures us that...

  Wednesday of week 25 in Ordinary Time   Proverbs 30:5-9 Psalm 118(119):28,72,89,101,104,163 Luke 9:1-6 DEPENDING ON DIVINE PROVIDENCE  The juxtaposition of today's readings from the Book of Proverbs and the Gospel delivers a clear message. The passage from Proverbs advocates for sufficiency rather than extremes, as reflected in the plea, "Give me neither poverty nor riches; provide me only with the food I need." Similarly, the Gospel echoes this sentiment through Jesus' directive to take nothing for the journey, emphasizing the virtue of moderation. The Latin expression "In medio stat virtus," attributed to Aristotle by St. Thomas Aquinas, underscores the concept that virtue lies in the moderate position between and above the extremes of any issue. Jesus consistently urges individuals to avoid extremes and embrace a middle ground, whether addressing the interpretation of the Law, financial matters, or human relationships. The overarching theme is one of mo...