by Thokozani Mkhonta (Seminarian)

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Today, the Gospel presents to us the earliest of encounters between Jesus and his first disciples. It recounts that Jesus was passing by when John the Baptizer declared to his disciples that the one who was passing by is the Lamb of God. Upon hearing this, John’s disciples immediately left and followed Jesus. One outstanding realization in this encounter is that it is John the Baptizer who declares Jesus’ identity to his disciples who appear to be clueless of such. As they walk after Jesus, Jesus turns and asks them what are they looking for. They express to Jesus that they want to see where he lives. Jesus invites them to come and see. It is striking to realize that the role played by John the Baptizer in this scene facilitated the first interaction between Jesus and his first disciples. It appears that the disciples might have remained oblivious to the presence of the Lamb of God amongst them should John the Baptizer have not enlightened them.

Continue reading “Reflection for the 2nd Sunday of Ordinary Time” →

by Thokozani Mkhonta

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It is reckoned that our needs and desires go a long way in defining who we are. Our actions are largely motivated and informed by the things we desire to possess and persons we aspire to become. The scarcity of means to fulfil our needs is thus a major dilemma of life. Often, individuals have to put up with uncomfortable conditions and tolerate difficult people for the sake of gaining a livelihood. It is saddening to recognize the plight of those who lack the means to satisfy even basic needs.

It is as though the ones with much fortune and wealth are the happiest in life. Yet, it is evident that people tend to always seek and need more of what they already possess. This evidences the fact that we often deprive ourselves happiness by failing to appreciate and celebrate what we already have. If we fail to properly regulate our aspirations and ambitions, they will always rob us the opportunity to celebrate the present moment by stimulating an unsuitable longing for that which is yet beyond our possession.

Continue reading “Reflection for the Solemnity of the Baptism of the Lord” →

by Thokozani Mkhonta

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Pain is a sad certainty of life. It is difficult to discern the meaning of life in the midst of pain. It is for that reason that our attention is often drawn to God when we go through pain since he is the ultimate being who has reasons for all things.

Those who look up to God are often in a better position to cope with pain. God assures those who put their faith in him that all pain is temporary, and that those who persevere shall be delivered. This can be typified in the situation of the people of Israel. In the midst of political oppression and exploitation, they waited with hope for the Messiah who was to deliver them from the hands of their oppressors. Israel knew that he served a God who honours his promises. Thus, the Israelites knew that all their suffering was going to end someday. It is difficult to imagine the situation of gentiles who might have been going through a similar situation as Israel: not being able to deliver yourself from pain whilst also without hope of anyone who might deliver you.

Continue reading “Reflection for the Solemnity of the Epiphany of the Lord” →