Ignatian Assignment -- Amalan Thainase

Jesus said to the deaf and the mute man ‘Ephatha’ meaning ‘Be Opened.’ And it opened. This year has been a year of opening, unfurling process of my intellect and spirit. Jesus opened them with my little help. The purpose, meaning and vision of my life have become clearer to me. The mind set got framed properly. There is one purpose and only one destiny in my life. ‘to serve, praise and revere God through the gift of life he has bestowed upon me. Jesus is the true purpose and destiny. I try to view the world, cosmos and myself with the eyes of Jesus. it gives me a new beginning, meaning and an end towards which I am working. I work with Him and for Him. I try to imbibe all of His qualities everyday. I ask the grace to imitate Him intimately and follow Him more closely.
The enriching experiences I have had during my long retreat are the strong foundations of my Jesuit vocation. Jesus continues to teach me through my morning meditations, the Eucharist and examinations of consciousness. He strengthens me everyday. The qualities I receive from him are the sources and secrets of what I am today. This uniqueness makes me a Jesuit. Hope, love, charity, even a pep talk or a smile to enthuse others are like the fragrance of beautiful flowers. Like a tiny park that causes an inferno of compassion it can reach any corner of the world. The unstoppable energy I receive from Jesus makes me go ahead whatever the hurdles may be.
Community life:
“Share your love with all your companions. Love and be loved.” Initially it was difficult to understand each of my companions especially the fathers who take care of us in the juniorate. But now a lot of love and understanding between all my companions and me is becoming firmer. It helps me to grow both in my community and spiritual life. I am now a happy man. When my brothers are around me I feel a lot of support and it strengthens me whether it is during the prayer, studies, games or recreation. Outings, picnics, Wednesday community recreation every week and walks with an appointed companion on Fridays are some of the moments I have relished and cherished in this year.
Wor(k)ship:
The indelible memories of my novitiate life are still fresh and green. The first spiritual reading that I did, the first attempt that I made to inculturate myself by wearing a ‘kurta,’ the one month long Spiritual Exercises, my ministry to a near by church, constitution classes and various courses have helped me to be a Jesuit ‘contemplative in action.’ In fact at that time my mind was too narrow to grasp it’s vast and noble meaning. One of the workdays, having missed the prayer due to work I complained to my novice master that I missed my prayer and felt bad about it. He gently took me aside, explained and corrected the true nature of Jesuits being ‘contemplatives even in action.’
For me today as a junior learning humanities, study is my work and worship, ‘for I can do nothing more pleasing to God than to concentrate on studies seeking nothing in my studies but the divine glory and the good of others.’ const(361).
As Fr.Arrupe said ‘what is important must be common to all Jesuits especially in our days, in the permanent attitude of reflection, in the light of faith. It is essential component of a genuine commitment to Jesuit intellectual life which demands a closer integration of spirituality and the intellectual life.’ We should be able to draw enough strength from the well of God’s abundant graces and irrigate our spiritual and intellectual fields for the sole sake of the God’s kingdom. Whatever we do, act and study will by themselves have no direction. They carry no capacity to bring merit unless they are directed and dedicated to the Divine Majesty.
We must strike an impeccable balance between work and worship, contemplatives and action, the call to prayer and the call to apostolic work. Work and worship are the divine engagements with the supreme God. St, Ignatius said ‘seek and sense God in all things’ and labor with him and for him in the vineyard of Christ.’ he acquired a new meaning and relevance to his life. As the sons of Ignatius let us get drowned in the heart and love of Jesus and be soaked in devotion to him through our apostolate.
Today’s world is consumerist. People young and old have plenty of work to do in this globalized world. The internet, cables, television and shopping malls provide burgeoning material needs. We have plenty of choices to make. Among all this how can I be a Jesuit always available? Can the people turn to me for their spiritual needs? Can I be a mirror who reflects the qualities of Jesus? Can I give them the faith, hope and the inner peace of Jesus?
Pope Benedict XVI said to us Jesuits during the GC 35:
“The church needs you, counts on you and continue
To turn to you with confidence, particularly to reach the
Geographical and spiritual places where others do not
Reach or find it difficult to reach,” (allocution.no.2)
I feel the geographical and the spiritual places are those where others do not reach or find difficult to reach. I do not say that Gujarat is now my home where I will live, work and die spreading the ennobling message of God. There is no limit to my Jesuit vocation. My Jesuit call is universal one. I am ready and willing to go to any part of the world for Christ’s mission. As a Jesuit, I am open to the challenging missions where others do not reach. I do not have any definite goals but a soul longing dream to work anywhere under any circumstances.
A Jesuit should aspire to be a saint and a scholar, I am called to be both, a saint and a scholar today. I do my studies faithfully but I need to aim for the ‘magis’ and that is what I am called to do today. Excellence at both studies and spirituality will make my Jesuit vocation a universal one.

Amalan Thainase

One with 'Christ-Poor' -- Sanjay Horo

One with 'Christ-Poor'

Poverty – Poverty is a faith experience first of all of Christ’s total self- emptying in love. Christ chose to become a poor person and he dwelt among the poor experiencing the very life of the poor. By doing so he wanted to come closer to the poor. Christ was poor so I am called to be poor like Him. The lived experience of poverty impels us to the love of Christ, a love which purifies and liberates.

One can’t know what religious poverty is and What it means, if the personal and lived experience of real poverty is lacking. One may possibly arrive at some knowledge of what the poverty of the historical Christ was and its characteristics traits were but one can not know what the poverty of a poor man is in actuality if one chooses to live as a rich. .

Poverty is an essential constituent of the Ignatian charism which is based on a love for the person of Jesus Christ, a love that necessarily leads one to be like Christ Poor in order to imitate and follow Him; to go to the father through Christ poor and obedient. It is not enough for one to merely desire to be poor. One must experience actual poverty.

As St. Ignatius puts it, “It is no small grace that the divine goodness gives us the opportunity of actually tasting what we should always desire if we are to be conformed to our model Jesus Christ.”

We thus arrive at ultimate poverty (SE 167): the giving up of everything, ones own self included which imitates the kenosis of Christ. Rooted in the love of the father, it is the highest degree of interior humility. To strip oneself in this way is to experience powerlessness in the presence of those who are having no possessions. It is to experience humiliations of the poor and their sufferings. If we want to share with the life of the poor, we must first of all share our life with our brethren in the society. How could we call ourselves poor if we do not banish mine and thine from our lives?

A Jesuit must always be poor in spirit and within his heart he must always yearn to live in poverty; not to live in destitution, but in poverty, so as to have and use only what is strictly necessary for life and work, renouncing superfluities. For those who embrace it lovingly often experiences joy, happiness and inner freedom that they had never felt before. Poverty develops a spirituality that is joyful, vigorous and virile. It generates spiritual vigor and an extraordinary endurance in apostolic enterprises, and on top of that, confers and inward joy who has not experienced it finds hard to imagine. Another dimension is that a Jesuit is deeply united with God and relies on him alone meaning in His providence for ones daily needs. The charism of Ignatius is not the one of Charles de Foucauld. Or again, we are informed that the authentic Jesuit tradition is to employ whatever means will get us to the end. That means for the greater glory of God we can make use of whatever is needed.

The advantages of that perfect detachment on which religious poverty is based are manifold. Perfect detachment confers an inner freedom which is unique: the freedom to respond to the call of the Spirit as soon as we hear it, whether in our own hearts, or in the voice of the superior, or in the signs of the times.

Before choosing his first companions Ignatius did lot of prayer and discernment of Spirit. There involved very much of prayer till he was confirmed but once he was confirmed he won over them for the Lord. It is marvelous to note in the manner he won St. Francis Xavier. After having chosen his companions he gave them Spiritual Exercises. And they were formed with solid determination and Zeal all for the Greater Glory of God. He formed them all spiritually, physically, mentally, psychologically, and emotionally. Then they were prepared to work for the Magis. He sent them to different corners of the world. They never hesitated to go and do the will of God. They found God in everything they did.

The first companions called themselves Friends in the Lord, and I feel that I am also a part of the first companions. By entering this least society, and having pronounced my First vows in the same society, it is incumbent to be called the friends in the Lord. As I live my everyday life as a Jesuit, every aspect of my life is to be shaped as that of the first companions. The way of our proceeding remains the same as it was at the beginning the society. It is a great privilege and grace to be called companions of Jesus.

The first companions of Ignatius came from different socio-cultural backgrounds and yet lived as “Friends in the Lord.” In this Juniorate also there are scholastics form different socio-cultural backgrounds and yet we try to live in accordance with the norms and the proceedings of the same society. Though we differ in mental toughness, physical strength, intellectual capacity, interest, talent, taste so on and so forth. This difference or diversity doesn't stop my growth as a Jesuit but it enriches my whole being altogether. All these differences are the core of my strength. I can live as “Friends in the Lord.” By understanding others, putting up with others' weaknesses, accepting my own shortcomings, and trying to avoid the occasions of criticism even at a critical moment. I would concentrate on the positive aspects of my companions. Thus I try to accept others as they are. When a misunderstanding occurs I try to clarify it by getting into a mild conversation. I would share my joy and sorrow with them. If some one is going on in a wrong direction I would try to bring him back. I would learn from my own mistakes and from others as well. And in this way I can live as “Friends in the Lord” in my community.

In response to Vat II, GC 31 tried to re-found the Society of Jesus. Yes, I think that the GC 31 captured the original Charism of Ignatius. As the Church became more conscious of the needs of the modern age, she re-articulated her response in modern ways. The GC 31 reformulated many of the documents through the eyes of the ' signs of the time'. Many norms were abolished, and new ones were promulgated so that the Society of Jesus could respond effectively in its mission for the Lord.

Scho. Sanjay Horo S.J.

A New Beginning -- Sanjay D.Aind

A NEW BEGINNING

Scho. Sanjay D. Aind S.J.

Maurish, was quite well known in the town. He was handsome, young and well-built. He was brilliant in studies. He also had a great many creative skills. God had endowed him with many a Christian virtue. Being young, he fancied a beautiful girl named Leona of his own college. Leona was twenty two. She lived at a distance from Maurish’s house. She led the choir at the parish. She too felt drawn towards Maurish.

Inspired by his elder brother’s virtues, Polly too grew as a well-mannered young man. Besides being brothers they were very good friends too. They shared everything they had. Such a loving bond they had developed between them that they had become a good example for all girls and boys around. Polly always desired to become a priest, although he enjoyed all the fun with his friends in the college.

“Polly”, said Maurish one day, “I am in love with Leona…how do you find her…shall I ask for her hand?” Polly missed a heartbeat. Then he realized that he too had been fancying Leona, unaware of Maurish’s affection for Leona. Maurish’s question was a blow from the blue for him. Yet he gave him a smile and changed the topic for the time being.

One black day, Maurish met with an accident while going for a basketball tournament. He could no longer dream of becoming a famous sportsman. Neither could he dream of getting Leona as his life partner.

Considering Maurish’s disability and his own desire to become a religious Polly found himself in a great dilemma. Added to that, Leona’s frequent visits to the disabled Maurish stirred up his young heart. However, one fine day, he disclosed all his feelings to the parish priest. He was advised to take time over the matter.

With confidence in God and guidance from the Parish Priest, he decided to join religious life. The first few days in the seminary passed by quite smoothly. Within a week or two he had made good friends with all the seminarians and won the heart of Fr. Danny, the Director of the seminary.

As the days rolled by, Polly started missing his brother. He wept silently in his bed at night. Simultaneously, his heart ached at the thought of Leona. He spoke to the Director about his internal turmoil.

* * * * * * *

“Hey! Look at that man! He is so handsome!” cried a young girl pointing towards a stranger. He stood among a few parishioners after the Sunday Mass. August was a charismatic character. Many people had grown fond of him. Naturally, Leona too was fascinated by the personality of August.

Apart from his fascinating character, August was also a good speaker. He simply attracted people towards him with his enchanting voice. Gradually, he started preaching against the Church. People were shocked and enraged at his words in the beginning. But he had taken a good hold over them by then. Leona was so captivated by his magic that she did not even realize when she started helping him out with his preaching. It was a matter of great concern for all. Maurish warned Leona to be careful of her closeness to August.

* * * * * * *

The life of Polly in the seminary was going through a lean patch. Fr.Danny with all his fatherly advice helped him to discern. Polly confidently chose to marry. He felt a tremendous joy and satisfaction when he took the final decision. Fr. Danny as well as the other seminarians bade him farewell.

With a joyous heart he came back home to be with his elder brother. Maurish was naturally more than happy on his return. Polly noticed that Leona made fewer visits now to see his brother. He was quite disheartened to hear about the relationship of Leona and August.

Polly informed Fr. Danny about all the happenings and asked for his help. Fr. Danny knew August earlier. He had seen him enticing faithfuls in other places too. Now, when he saw him with Leona he felt quite uncomfortable. Out of great concern for Polly, he asked August to keep away from Leona because she belonged to Polly. That irritated August, and from the very next day onwards he looked for a chance to finish Polly. Meanwhile, Fr. Danny asked Polly to stop August from instigating people, and save the proud yet innocent Leona from his evil hands.

August, somehow, came to know of their plans. That made him all the more determined to kill Polly, gain Leona, and keep his secret identity safe. But there was quite sufficient time for Fr. Danny to do the needful. Without losing a moment he took Leona into confidence and revealed the reality about Polly’s special liking for her, and August’s plan to finish Polly.

Two days later, Maurish and Polly were at home. It was evening and the sun had already set. Maurish rested on his bed facing the window, while Polly sat at the study table in the same room going through some notes. That same afternoon, Fr. Danny was in town for some purchases for the seminary. There he saw August moving about anxiously. He sensed something fishy. He took Leona, and headed towards Maurish and Polly’s house. Leona was quite surprised at this strange behaviour of Fr. Danny.

By evening they were close to Maurish’s house. They noticed a shadow moving towards the open window of Maurish’s living room. At that moment they could neither shout nor hold the shadow. They ran towards the shadow, but it was already there at the window brandishing a revolver. Maurish, who was lost in thoughts, saw a masked man with a revolver pointing towards Polly. The masked man pulled the trigger. By then Maurish had made full cover for Polly. The bullet cruised through Maurish’s neck. Polly heard a loud thud and turned to see Maurish lying on his bed. Nothing was serious he thought.

Outside Fr. Danny took hold of the masked man. The masked man, not surprisingly, turned out to be August. Fr. Danny gave him a hard punch on his face, overpowered him and threw him onto the ground. When Polly heard the loud noise he came out running only to find Fr. Danny pinning August to the ground. Unable to move even an inch August pulled the trigger again and blew up his own temple, thus putting an end to his life. Fr. Danny fumbled through August’s pockets. And there it was his identity card and a locket that portrayed the logo of the secret organization that worked against the Church. Fr. Danny left him and motioned both, Leona and Polly, towards Maurish’s room. Maurish was lying in a pool of blood. Polly was astounded. So were Fr. Danny and Leona.

Fr. Danny took Maurish gently into his lap. Examining his body carefully he found the wound under his damp hair. He was still alive and there was a smile on his face. Chances of saving him were dim. He could scarcely articulate a word. Yet gathering all the remaining strength he uttered with a trembling voice, “Father…! Thank you…thank you very much for coming here. Thank you… for your great company…to me and…to my brother…and to Leona…!” Turning to Polly and Leona he said, “You two…are made for each other…Promise me…you will live together…!” And he breathed his last.

There was a deep silence in the atmosphere. Their eyes were wet. All at once, Fr. Danny got up and moved around. There was a sense of surprise on Leona and Polly’s faces. “Polly, what was Maurish doing when you were at the table?” asked Fr. Danny. “Why…? He had been looking out through the window as usual. Then he tried to reach behind me, and then went back to bed…wait a minute…oh my God! …he actually fell on the bed…!” replied Polly with a damp voice. “That’s it!” said Fr. Danny, “He saved your life, Polly! He sacrificed himself for your sake. He took the bullet on himself. August wanted to kill you because he loved Leona and you were an obstacle to him.” “Oh no! Why should it happen to him only?” grieved Polly. “Maurish loved you so much, Polly, that he showed it through action”, asserted Fr. Danny. Polly sobbed bitterly. So did Leona. Fr. Danny consoled them with encouraging words, “Let us make a new beginning!” Seeing Leona by his side and hearing the heartening words of Fr. Danny, Polly felt lighter. Fr. Danny looked at them, put his hands on their shoulders and blessed them.

My Jesuit Vocation-A call to Universality Sanjay D.Aind

MY JESUIT VOCATION – A CALL TO UNIVERSALITY

In the Spiritual Exercises, the contemplation on the Incarnation shows the three Divine Persons gazing upon the beautiful yet conceited earth. The lovely earth is full of demoralizing wickedness and overwhelming misery. Considering the grim situation, the Second Person becomes a human being, to save the human race. The unfathomable plan manifests the extraordinary vocation of Jesus Christ, the Second Person of the Holy Trinity. God, the Father, entrusts to Jesus, a mission: to proclaim the Good News to fragile human beings, and save their souls by dying a cruel death on the Cross, for universal good.

Becoming fully human, like Jesus Christ, who became a human being, makes my call universal. Jesus came to the earth with a universal mission: to establish the kingdom of love and righteousness. Like Jesus Christ, St. Francis Xavier too, realized his worth and spent his life for the sake of the mission entrusted to him. Before setting out for the mission, Francis Xavier told the Portuguese Governor,

“If you do not provide me with a ship to go to this island, I will go swimming. Remember, I am the ambassador of Jesus Christ.”

I personally came to know about the Jesuits only when I joined a Jesuit-run school at Ranchi. There I got an opportunity to come into contact with Jesuit priests and scholastics. That was the time when I started to admire the Jesuits. The Principal of the school, being an intellectual, and an enthusiastic personality, caught my attention. Even my hostel Prefect and Scholastic regents were inspirational figures. Their all-round characters and their efficiency, be it in preaching the Good News, education, music, sports and companionship, instantly attracted me. That unprocessed influence planted in me a tiny seed of a desire to become a Jesuit. Constant brushing up of my own hodgepodge of thoughts purified my unrefined desire. Later on, my feeble condition grew bolder and firmer like Matthew of the Gospels.

“As Jesus was walking along, he saw a man called Matthew sitting at the tax booth; and he said to him, ‘Follow me.’ And he got up and followed him.”

(Mt.9:9)

I, too, heard the Master say, “Follow me”, and I got up and followed him. The never-ending journey continues with His compelling eyes gazing upon me till date. Meanwhile, the charism of the Society of Jesus, ‘to be placed with the Son,’ energizes me to reach my goal.

The Society of Jesus is a universal Society of religious men. God’s loving invitation to join this Society and my response to this invitation is, thus, my universal vocation. I have opted to labour in Our Lord’s universal vineyard, “For the Greater Glory of God.” I belong to a universal community of “Friends in the Lord”. The union of minds and hearts and a community life of active collaboration define its universality. The community life itself is a mission that develops into a massive evangelical mission: the defence and propagation of faith with special reference to justice for peoples.

In the history of the Society of Jesus, I have witnessed many exemplary models who offered themselves for the sake of God’s plan. Francis Xavier, Roberto De Nobili, John De Britto and Constant Lievens were zealous missionaries in different parts of India. Matteo Ricci did magic in the land of the Dragons. They possessed not only the virtue of availability, but also a ready acceptance for the mission. These stalwarts of our beloved Society are, indeed, a great inspiration for me. Since I am following and imitating Jesus Christ, the Master, I have the indispensable mission of Jesus himself. I grow in connaturality with Jesus Christ, assimilating St. Paul’s words,

“It is no longer I who live, but it is Christ who lives in me.” (Galatians 2:20)

In the formative years as a Jesuit I am tested and trained to be a torchbearer of Jesus, to bring light to mankind. To begin with, the two years of “novitiate” life give me an opportunity to build a solid foundation to face several challenges in the world outside. The influential inputs by my novice master on various issues including spiritual, social, emotional and so on, have helped me understand and respond to the realities, both spiritual and physical. The enriching experiences of the Ignatian “Long Retreat” as well as various apostolates and activities in the novitiate have indeed strengthened me. As a learner in the “juniorate”, I come across ample sources which help me prepare myself for the universal mission. Besides, the study of several articles on mission, vision, our way of proceeding, etc., work as energy pills for my growing universal vocation. Coming from different provinces and backgrounds to a common house such as this, provides me with an opportunity to know and learn various cultures and traditions. Meanwhile, this challenge invites me to act as one with a universal mission attempting to realize the radical diversity of local as well as global situations.

Considering the local language of the people, learning a new language altogether, ‘Gujarati’ for me, provides me, a North Indian, with a practical opportunity to work anywhere in the province of Gujarat and thus progress in my universal call. Still further, learning a language such as Spanish, will give me another facility to go to different places in the world. The academic years in college will further equip me with the necessary knowledge of literature, history, communications and culture and so on. Later, the study of Philosophy will enrich my mind with regard to ideas and critical thinking. Finally, four years of Theology will give me a wide range of religious knowledge and understanding to have a realistic and effective approach to people of other religions. During all these years, I will pursue too, the Gujarati and Spanish languages.

Furthermore, the perpetual vows of poverty, chastity and obedience are the driving forces that enable me to employ all my energies in various missions of the Society. As I grow stronger in my vocation, I am asked to pronounce the fourth vow of obedience to the Sovereign Pontiff regarding the missions. Since the Society of Jesus is concerned with humanity at the global level, all its members become one, despite the world’s physical boundaries. The Constitutions, concerning the fourth vow of obedience to the Pope with regard to mission, exhorts us to,

“Go anywhere in the world that he might send us, even beyond the boundaries of Christendom, for the greater glory of God and help to his people.”

[No.603, The Constitutions of the Society of Jesus]

My Jesuit way of proceeding is identified by my deep personal love for Jesus Christ. I am a servant of the Lord sent on a mission. In fact, I join the Society for a mission, become the mission and die on the mission. I have the heart and mind that contain the motivation of ever searching for the Ignatian MAGIS, that is, ‘doing ever more’. This Jesuit spirit is described appropriately by the following phrase, ‘a fire that enkindles other fires.’

After the Second Vatican Council, the Society of Jesus has grown stronger in the conviction that our mission received from Jesus Christ, is the propagation of faith and promotion of justice. The inseparable link between faith and justice is the integrating principle of our Society. This is what the Holy Father said regarding our mission:

“As my predecessors have often told you, the church needs you, counts on you, continues to turn to you with confidence, particularly to reach the geographical and spiritual places where others do not reach or find it difficult to reach.”

[Benedict the Sixteenth, Allocution to GC 35 of the Society of Jesus]

Hence, I belong to a Society that is engaged in the challenging mission of bringing about the Kingdom of God in the world.

The universality of my vocation becomes more visible through the virtue of ‘availability’. It is a ‘going out readily’ not only beyond the physical frontiers, but also beyond the barriers of discrimination among peoples worldwide. Availability is born from obedience and the intense desire to serve God and His people. That is the hallmark of the Jesuits.

In a nutshell, my Jesuit vocation is a call to universality, to be free from all else so as to be free for God, for the greater glory of God and for the sake of His people. My service to the universal church is rooted in my ‘undaunted loyalty’ to Jesus Christ. Since our mission today is a sharing in the ‘global mission’ of the church, I must empower myself with God through the Spiritual Exercises. I need an ‘unflinching solidarity’ with the poor and marginalized. I must undergo an ongoing ‘personal conversion’ and I must persevere in my vocation – a call to serve God anywhere and amongst any people in the world, wherever I may be sent to. For this I am determined to make the best use of my years in formation.

Sch. Sanjay D. Aind, s.j.

Why do i want to become a Jesuit?- Yowan s.j

WHY DO I WANT TO BECOME A JESUIT?

“I have loved you with an everlasting love; therefore I have continued my faithfulness to you” (Jer31: 3)

Once my novice master asked me “Why do you want to become a Jesuit?” I told him, “because I love Jesus” All human beings are created, to praise, thank and serve God, our Lord.” The source of all living things is God. I, too, believe that the source of my noble vocation has come from God. Finally, my living source is God. He is the root cause of my existence in this vast world.I may be a feeble being; yet God chose me for a decisive purpose. I have received a special call from him. It was God who strengthens me in my life. As a small seed grows into a plant, my Jesuit vocation begins to grow within me. As time passed by, I have realized that we, the incorrigible Jesuits, are placed with his son, Jesus. It was a great joy for me to be a Jesuit. I, too, am called to be an intimate companion of Jesus. “The greatest discovery of my generation is that a human being can alter his life by altering his attitudes.”I am a free being to serve God.

The vow of Poverty makes me follow Christ more closely. To live in poverty was a special choice of Jesus. Jesus’ decisive option was for the poor. I am called to be a tangible sacrament of God’s presence.

The universal vow of Chastity makes me surrender to Jesus. Sexual energy is power. So I channelize this positive energy for ministry. Therefore, the vow of Chastity is an apostolic one. The vow of obedience makes me do the will of God as expressed to me by the one who has authority to send us on a mission in the name of Jesus Christ. When I live my perpetual vows in this world, I am another Christ. All these simple vows help me to serve in the universal mission.“Fall in love, stay in love andIt will decide everything.”A deep love for Jesus makes me follow Him closely. If there is deep love, it will decide everything. Now-a-days, there is a love practice called, “Love-making.” In the name of love, there are umpteen frauds. People are easily cheated. There is no place for mutual communication between persons. In this vicious world, I am called to spread for Jesus’ love to all peoples. A pure love for Jesus makes this mission possible in this global world.

I live in this great universe. Everywhere, we can see untold suffering. Our loving God does not cause this cruel suffering. We cause it. On the one hand, the world is full of wealth. On the other hand, there is cruel poverty and unbearable misery. It is logical that because we are selfish, we suffer. People do not want to share their goods with other people. We, the Jesuits, need to show solidarity with the poor.The world moves fast. I, too, move with the world. There is a lot of new technology that is available outside. People have no time to show their affection to others. It is a sad story in this world. Time is distinctly limited. Therefore, to praise, thank and love is very difficult. I too, know that I need to be a contemplative person even in action.

The tangible church is the body of Christ. As the beloved mother carries the baby in her womb, so too the Holy Spirit carries the church in all its difficulties. The body is connected to different parts. Likewise, people are connected with this body of Christ. Therefore, the apostolic body, the Church, is very important for me. Ultimately, the ministry is an inseparable part of my mission. I need to be tough in the ministry: physically, spiritually and mentally. “It is better to believe than to disbelieve; In so doing you bring everything to the realm of possibility.” In this marvelous universe, man is the king of all creation. There are many wonderful inventions that are in the process of unfolding. Some of them have already been discovered. In a few days, men may stay on the wonderful moon. It is really possible for him. I too, am called to reach out to as many people as possible. “A rose can live amongst the thorns and yet never be injured by them”.

There are persons who undergo suffering so that all others may be happy. They are the ones who sacrifice their sleep and comfort so that others may enjoy life. They are ready to sacrifice anything and everything for the well being of others. They are like candles that burn themselves in order to give light to others. They do not want name, fame or recognition. What they desire is that all people should be free, happy and move towards ever-greater enrichment. I too want to be like one of those persons.

Though I belong to a particular province, yet I am for all the peoples. My service is lent to all peoples. Just as Jesus came for everybody so am I come for all the peoples of the world? Men are always sent on a mission. The compelling availability is largely useful for a larger mission. “Only those who risk going too far can possibly find out how far they can go”.

Magis is the quality, which makes the mission possible. Men go beyond the unreachable boundaries. It is true because the generous soul is waiting to fulfill his mission. Likewise, I too am called for Magis. When I am obsessed with generosity, I go beyond the unfathomable boundaries. It is because, “It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me.”(Gal 2:20) “Love is not only something you feel, it is something you do.”

Everyone in this world is like a hidden treasure. The treasure is not immediately visible to us. But if we trust ourselves and continue to labor, then we will surely be able to bring out our hidden treasure. There is always a rainbow of God’s promise to us. In moments of darkness and discouragement, look at the rainbow and keep moving ahead. I too, should not get discouraged on my way. I need to trust God in my life. Because my life is dependent on himThough my life has a short ending, yet I live my life for a great cause. The number of days I live on this earth does not matter, how I live on this earth is what matters. I think quality is better than quantity. Basically, my life returns to God.

The lifelong Journey that began with A.M.M.G (all for my greater glory) now turns out to be A.M.D.G. (all for his greater glory) At the end, I become another Christ.

Yours in Christ,

Yowan, s.j.

ખિસ્ત્માં વ્હાલાં શ્ર્ધ્ધાળુઓ,
"પ્રેરણા" ગુજરાત વિદ્યદીપ, સેવાસીમાં અભ્યાસ ક્ર્ર્તા બ્રધ્રો ધ્વારા આગમનરુતૂ અને તપરુતુમં પ્રકાશિત કરવામાં આવે છે. આગમનરુતુમાં તમને મોકલવામાં આવેલ "પ્રેરણા"નો તમે જે પ્રત્યુત્તર આપ્યો છે તેના અમે આભારી છીએ. આશા રાખીએ છીએ કે પ્રેરણાનો આ છઠ્ઠો અંક પણ તમારી તપરુતુની સાધનામાં ખુબજ ઉપયોગિ નીવડ્શે.
પ્રભુમાં આપના,
બ્ર.કમલેશ રાવળ ઇ.સં