RVA Daily Reflection

Servant-A Light to the Nation

Human Weakness Vs Divine StrengthReflection Date: April 15, 2025Author: Fr. Ignatius Britto SJDaily Reading: Isaiah 49: 1-6, John 13: 21-33, 36-38
Today’s readings offer sublime reflections on God’s mission for His chosen servants and the reality of human weakness in living out our commitments. Our works and efforts may seem futile and fruitless, but God’s plan is always greater than what we perceive or conceive.
The Gospel passage highlights the struggles Jesus faces as His days are numbered. In deep sorrow, He speaks of Judas’ betrayal and Peter’s denial. Do you also struggle with fear and disloyalty?
Isaiah emphasizes the mission of the servant. The servant, who is eventually Jesus, will bring salvation to all nations. God prepares His servant for this redemptive mission, affirming His powerful presence. Now, are you open to embracing the God-given purpose even when the journey is difficult?
John narrates a deeply emotional moment of Jesus during the Last Supper. Reflect on the painful betrayal and denial of two men who were dear to Jesus. In spite of knowing what these two would be doing in a short while, Jesus continued to show them His love by sharing the meal with them. But Judas chose despair and ended his life; Peter sought forgiveness and was restored. It is a consoling reminder that no failure is beyond God’s mercy. In what ways have you betrayed or denied Jesus through your actions? This is the time to reconcile.
Call to Action:
Try to exhibit humility, forgiveness, and deeper trust in God’s redeeming love.
“You are called to be witnesses of God’s redemptive love, relying not on human strength but on His power.” What is your response to this statement?

Mission of justice and compassion

Author: Fr. Ignatius Britto, SJ
Teaser text : Fragrance of true DiscipleshipReflection Date: April 14, 2025Daily Reading: Isaiah 42:1-7, John 12:1-11
It is a powerful prophetic passage that brings to light the servant of the Lord who works with gentleness and compassion, standing for justice to restore dignity and peace. The Gospel of the day invites us to deepen our love for Christ and to act with sincerity and generosity.
God ministers with compassion towards the weak, the broken, and those who are on the verge of losing hope. It is clear that His leadership is marked by divine favor, a mission for justice, and a commitment to righteousness. We are called to imitate this compassion, offering healing and hope to broken humanity. In what ways are we called to bring justice and peace to others?
Observe the genuine devotion marked by the greater love of Mary, sister of Martha and Lazarus. On the other hand, notice the hypocrisy of the false piety of Judas. This act of exorbitant love and humility demonstrates her deep intimacy and reverence for Jesus. Mary chooses the narrow path of selflessness and submission, falling at the feet of Jesus. Judas chooses the extensive route to exhibit his insincerity, greed, and pride.
True discipleship is not measured by efficiency but by the surrender of the heart. Mary’s act was costly, intimate, genuine, and total, without any reservation. Our devotion should leave a lasting fragrance, inspiring others to love Jesus deeply.
Call to Action:
Examine your motives in serving others and in finding fault with others.
Let your love for Jesus permeate every area of your life.

Palms of Victory Give Way to Pains of Death!

Author: Fr. Ignatius Britto, SJA Journey of Triumph and Sacrifice! Reflection Date: April 13, 2025 Palm Sunday of the Lord's PassionDaily Readings: Blessing of Palms:Luke 19:28-40; Isaiah 50:4-7; Philippians 2:6-1l; Luke 22:14-23:56
The Church invites us to enter into Holy Week, contemplating the triumphant yet humble entry of Jesus into Jerusalem. Hear the joyful cries of “Hosanna!”—but contrast them with the looming shadow of the Passion. What makes Jesus, the most popular person on this Sunday, become the most hated by Friday?
The donkey gives us a clue! By making His grand entry on a donkey—with its monstrous head, sickening cry, and ears like errant wings, as described in The Donkey by G.K. Chesterton—Jesus shatters every false notion the people held about the Messiah.
It is fitting to read and reflect on Chesterton’s poem The Donkey. Nowhere in the poem does it explicitly state that it is about a donkey! But in the last stanza, the donkey describes how it was finally recognized—when Jesus sat upon it and received a solemn welcome into Jerusalem. As it heard the joyful shouts of the crowd and saw people spreading palm leaves and blankets on the street, it began to feel a sense of importance. Yes, the donkey had its hour—when Jesus was with it! Likewise, we too will have our hour when Jesus is with us.
Despite knowing what awaited Him, Jesus chose to accept the cross in total obedience to the Father (Philippians 2:6-8). How do you respond to suffering in your life? Do you trust in God’s purpose? Holy Week is an invitation to walk with Jesus through His Passion.
In a few hours, the palm leaves we carried to welcome Jesus will become dry crosses. They will likely be placed behind pictures on the wall or tucked away somewhere in the house. These dry, withered, empty crosses—what do they signify? Do they remind you of the humiliating death of Jesus on a cross like this? Too often, we try to offer crosses without Christ! We don’t want to suffer; we don’t want to face struggles in our lives.
But Jesus’ ways are different. Christianity without the Cross of Christ is unthinkable. No cross—no crown! No wounds—no blessings! Let us take up our cross with Christ in our journey on earth, with the hope that we will share in His resurrection.
Call to Action for Catholic Living: 
As you stand at the crossroads of various conflicts and challenges, move forward with courage and the strength of the Lord to face life.
True love often involves sacrifice. In what ways are you planning to bring meaning to it?

Hope in God's Restoration

Author: Fr. Ignatius Britto, SJChoose Courage Over Fear!Reflection Date: April 12, 2025 Saturday of the Fifth Week of LentDaily Readings: Ezekiel 37:21-28; John 11:45-57
This passage is rich with themes of restoration, unity, and divine covenant, offering profound spiritual insights for our lives today. The dual response to the raising of Lazarus is quite astonishing: the religious leaders' fear is intensified, and on the other hand, some people choose Jesus and believe in him.
The first reading reflects the faithfulness and mercy of God. He desires reconciliation. Further, he forms a covenant of peace, signifying his unbreakable commitment to his people. Eventually, this foreshadows the new covenant in Christ (Jeremiah 31:31-34), where God the Father dwells with his people through the Holy Spirit. His restoration is not just physical but spiritual.
Tension mounts between Jesus and the religious leaders, settling in motion the plot to crucify him. The growing influence of Jesus among the people naturally poses a threat to their power. The political calculation of those in power is round the corner to arrest him. At this juncture, we see Jesus withdrawing to Ephraim, affirming forcefully that he is in complete control over human schemes.
This calls us to reflect on the choices we take. Are we open to the spirit, or are we controlled by fear of rejection when standing for justice? Let us, then, choose courage over fear, justice over daydreaming, and life over death.
Call to Action for Catholic Living: 
Become aware of the areas where fear prevents you from following Jesus' way.
Reflect on ways and means to overcome divisions in our families, parishes, communities, institutions, and workplaces.

Faithfulness Amidst Opposition

Author: Fr. Ignatius Britto, SJMy Response - Divided? Or Shielded?Reflection Date: April 11, 2025 Friday of the Fifth Week of LentDaily Readings: Jeremiah  20 : 10 - 13; John 10 : 31 - 42
Jeremiah captures a moment of deep anguish and strong faith in the God he trusts in. The shift from conflict to confidence is undeniably evident in this passage. Today’s Gospel highlights the hostility Jesus faces and His assertive responses to counter it.
Jeremiah laments his misfortunes, saying that even his own friends have rejected him. He is dismayed by their scathing attacks, yet he clings firmly to the truth and acknowledges God’s faithfulness. This serves as a clear reminder that even when others abandon us, God remains our defender. Recall Jeremiah’s powerful statement: “The Lord is with me like a mighty warrior” (Jeremiah 20:11).
Who is Jesus to you—just a moral teacher? Is He not God incarnate? (John 1:1, 14). Do I recognize His divinity and testify to His works—healing the sick, raising the dead to life, forgiving sins, and embracing all, irrespective of caste or creed? Are you ready to bring to life the words of Jesus in John 10:37-38?
Blinded by pride and tradition, the Pharisees rejected Him despite the evidence. Others, however, believe in Him because they are able to see and accept the truth. Quoting the Scriptures, Jesus says, “If those to whom the word of God came were called ‘gods’—and the Scripture cannot be annulled…” (John 10:35). The word of God has come to us—let us strive to live a godly life.
Call to Action for Catholic Living: 
Let us not harden our hearts when challenged.
Are you ready to join those beyond the Jordan (John 10:40) and proclaim your unshakable faith in Jesus? The choice is yours!

Experience the Significant Turning Point

Author: Fr. Ignatius Britto, SJCultivate Spiritual BoldnessReflection Date: April 10, 2025 Thursday of the Fifth Week of LentDaily Readings: Genesis 17 : 3 - 9; John 8 : 51- 59
Here, God establishes a covenant with Abraham, marking a significant turning point in the relationship between God and humanity. This covenant emphasizes both an incredible promise and a profound commitment.
In John 8:51-59, Jesus makes bold claims about His identity and mission, naturally disturbing Jewish leaders. Yet, He remains fearless in the face of dramatic confrontations and continues forward with unwavering determination.
The very change of Abram’s name (exalted father) to Abraham (father of many) signifies a new identity and demonstrates God’s transformative power. The land, promised as an inheritance, symbolizes the spiritual inheritance God offers His people. This invitation calls us to deepen our relationship with Him and remain faithful, upholding our commitment to God.
Jesus calls us to move from doubt to faith, from misunderstanding to revelation, from darkness to light, and from fear and ignorance to freedom. This is the radical nature of Jesus’ claim-and the cost of discipleship. Following Jesus may lead to rejection, persecution, and even death. But truth and justice can never be destroyed.
St. Margaret Clitherow, a woman of undaunted faith, stood the test of time by preaching the Good News and saving the lives of many priests from execution under the Protestant Queen between 1583 and 1586. In the end, she was brutally executed, crushed to death under an 800-pound weight. Though her body was destroyed, her unwavering faith in Jesus could not be broken. Now, are you strong enough to stand for truth and justice?
Call to Action for Catholic Living:                                                                                     
Cultivate a spirit of spiritual boldness and express your solidarity with the victims of injustice.
Inspired by the outstanding examples of St. Margaret Clitherow, Mother Teresa of Kolkata, and countless men and women who were willing to die for Christ, they take action in the pursuit of justice and mercy.

Freedom Marked With Steadfastness

Author: Fr. Ignatius Britto, SJMeanings of True DiscipleshipReflection Date: April 9, 2025 Wednesday of the Fifth Week of LentDaily Readings: Daniel 3 : 14 -20, 91-92, 95; John 8 : 31-42
The unwavering faith of three men who faced immense pressure to conform to the king’s decree is the central lesson of today’s first reading. It is also a powerful reminder of God’s assurance—His presence and deliverance from evil. The Gospel of the day challenges us to go deeper in understanding true freedom, which is marked by steadfastness.
These three men chose to obey God rather than the king, even though it meant defying a powerful ruler. Their obedience and loyalty to God took precedence over their fear of death. This forcefully reinforces the truth that when circumstances seem impossible, God will undoubtedly intervene in ways beyond our comprehension. It invites us to remain resolute in our faith, even in the most arduous situations.
Jesus emphatically reveals the meaning of true discipleship in His discourse with the Pharisees. Remaining faithful to His words and surrendering to God’s will—by aligning our lives with His ways—is what is expected of a true Christian. Let us, then, abide in God’s love by living according to His words: “If you continue in my word, you are truly my disciples” (John 8:31).
Call to Action for Catholic Living:     
Stand firm and remember: God is with you (Emmanuel). He has a purpose for all your struggles, sufferings, and tribulations.
Let go of your desires and attachments; submit yourself to God’s plan.
Ultimately, by knowing and living in the truth, you will experience the freedom that comes from Jesus.

The Ultimate Symbol of God's Mercy

Author: Fr. Ignatius Britto, SJA Calling to Align With GodReflection Date: April 8, 2025 Tuesday of the Fifth Week of LentDaily Readings: Numbers 21:4-9; John 8:21-30
The first reading offers profound insights into themes of faith, disobedience, repentance, and God's mercy. In the Gospel passage, Jesus speaks about His origin, mission, and identity. He declares that when He is lifted up, they will know that He is sent by the Father.
The Israelites are tired, weary, and impatient. As a result, they lose their faith in God and Moses and begin to complain. How about us? Do we not sometimes turn away from God and become impatient, even in the midst of His blessings? Despite their disobedience, God provides a way for them. The bronze snake on the pole becomes a symbol of God's mercy. It prefigures the cross of Christ. When we look up to Him in faith, we are sure to be healed. In moments of struggle and difficulty, do we grumble, or do we make an effort to face them with the strength of the Lord? Christ is the ultimate symbol of redemption and mercy.
The discourse between Jesus and the Pharisees calls us to recognize His relationship with the Father, asserting that He will do anything that pleases His Father. Are we able to align our lives with God's will?
It is interesting to observe that ambulances carry the image of a snake coiled around a staff. This symbolizes healing and medical care, stemming from Asclepius, the Greek god of medicine and healing. Also, the shedding skin of a serpent indicates renewal, rebirth, and rejuvenation. Through the snake, sin entered the world, and by looking at the snake on the staff, life was restored (Numbers 21:3). Now, whoever looks at the Cross of Christ will surely find life. Needless to say, the Cross of Christ is the ultimate demonstration of God's unconditional love.
Call to Action for Catholic Living:
Turn to God in humility and seek His protection.
Just as Moses stood between God and the Israelites, interceding on their behalf, let us bring the struggling and wandering people before Him, the Giver of life.

Are you spiritually blind?

Author: Fr. Ignatius Britto, SJLook Through the Eyes of JesusReflection Date: April 7, 2025 Monday of the Fifth Week of LentDaily Readings: Daniel 13: 1-9, 15-17, 19-30, 33-62; John 8: 12 – 20
The first reading distinctly highlights the essence of moral excellence, justice, divine intervention, and the wisdom of God. Susanna’s trust in God’s justice and Daniel’s courage in defending the truth are the key lessons in this passage.
The Gospel reading reveals Jesus’ divine identity and mission. It also reminds us that His mission is deeply rooted in His relationship with the Father.
The story of Susanna teaches us the importance of standing firm in our convictions, even when faced with immense pressure. In today’s world, false accusations, corruption, bribery, and greed for what belongs to others are rampant. Let us not fall prey to these snares of the evil one. God is present in our struggles and will act according to His divine justice.
It is sad to note the spiritual blindness of the Pharisees, which prevents them from recognizing Jesus, the Light of the World, as the Son of God. In a world often filled with confusion and despair, Jesus offers clarity, hope, and direction. It is up to us to examine the areas in our lives where we may be walking in the dark. This calls for total submission to His will and seeking His guidance.
Call to Action for Catholic Living: 
Instead of holding onto darkness, try to see through the eyes of Jesus, who shows us the people searching for truth, justice, and peace.
Acknowledge Jesus as your ultimate guide.

Focus on the destiny

Author: Fr. Ignatius Britto, SJNever Get Stagnant!Reflection Date: April 6, 2025 Fifth Sunday of LentDaily Readings: Isaiah 43:16-21; Philippians 3:8-14; John 8: 1-11
No matter how difficult or dry our current circumstances may seem, God brings life, hope, and transformation—this is the message from all the readings today. This newness of life is emphatically expressed in Paul’s words, reflecting how deep his commitment was to knowing Christ personally, and thus living a life centered on Him.
The Gospel today is a timeless reminder of the power of mercy and the transformative love of Jesus.
“Behold, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth” (Isaiah 43:19) is a declaration of hope. It invites us to open our spiritual eyes and recognize the hand of God in our lives. Even in times of despair and stagnation, it is an assurance that God can bring forth new opportunities, restoration, and hope.
What are our priorities today? Worldly attachments? Power? Prestige? Material goods? Paul speaks from his heart about how he values Christ Jesus above all else: “I count everything as loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus” (Philippians 3:8). Are you ready to run the race, fixing your eyes on Jesus toward the goal?
Let us try to visualize, in contemplation, the event in today’s Gospel. Place yourself among the Pharisees. The woman, caught in the very act of adultery, is at the feet of Jesus—her face marked by shame and fear of death. Listen to the dialogue between Jesus and the accusers… “Let him who is without sin among you be the first to throw a stone at her” (John 8:7). Do you also have a stone in your hand? What is your response? It calls for self-examination.
Now, listen to the conversation between Jesus and the woman. He does not utter a harsh word to put her to further shame. Rather, He gently calls her “woman” and says, “Neither do I condemn you; go, and do not sin again” (John 8:11). Look at how He draws a perfect line between her old life and the new life she is about to embrace. Reflect on your life now—what does Jesus do with your life today?
Call to Action for Catholic Living: 
Let us fix our eyes upon Jesus and strive to extend our hands to those most in need of God’s mercy.                                                                                                                                             
Are you willing to let go of your worldly attachments? Are you ready to count everything as loss and rubbish in order to commit yourself freely to Christ?                                                                                        
Let your fingers not point toward others to accuse them; instead, enable others to embrace the new life of mercy and reconciliation.