By William Selvaraj csc –
Readings: Lam 2: 2, 10-14, 18-19; Mt 8: 5-17
St. Cyril of Alexandria, Bishop, Confessor, and Doctor of the Church was born in Egypt. He distinguished himself as a man of prayer, an ascetic and a learned monk. He vigorously defended and faithfully supported the Catholic doctrine concerning the dignity of Mary as Mother of God.
First reading of the day tells us that Yahweh has destroyed all the dwellings of Jacob without mercy. This makes all the elders and the young to lament over their sins to seek forgiveness from the Lord for their wrong deeds.
The gospel reading of the day portrays Jesus as a comforting and consoling neighbour to those approached him. All those who experienced Jesus’ healing power give us significant insights into one’s way of perceiving Jesus and his power. The Centurion showed his extraordinary faith in Jesus, mother-in-law of Peter served him after fever left her, and through Jesus’ words others were healed. It raises a personal question to you and me, ‘How do we see or perceive Jesus?’ To perceive Jesus rightly is difficult if we have pride and self-glorification in us.
To perceive him as consoler and comforter, I should humble myself like the powerful Centurion who found extraordinary supremacy in Jesus and showed his extraordinary faith to cure his servant. In our daily life, one or the other way we come across problems. The moment one humbles himself before Jesus one can find consolation and comfort. So, let us ask the intervention of God to make us humble and to deepen our faith.