Greetings to you all in the name of our lord and savior Jesus Christ. We have entered another beautiful and robust month of the year. August is the month for harvesting ripened fruits and vegetables. August derives its name from Augustus Caesar the nephew of Julius Caesar. August has many accolades to its honor and celebration to name one or two is Indian Independence on 15th, National Aviation Day on 19th etc. Oriental Churches celebrate 15 Days Lent (feast of Virgin Mary) beginning from Aug 1st. Our lectionary this month begins on 7th as Mission Sunday which focuses on Apostle Paul’s deep urge for Mission in Rom 1:8-17. Though it is the power of God that brings salvation, the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ must be made loud and clear to the world. Aug 14th, the 2nd Sunday reminds us to be good citizens, showing Christian attitude and presence towards one’s nation. Being responsible for whatever we do as above everyone there is Godhead. Apostle Paul’s greatest proposition of not on our merits but on His Grace comes to our mind as we dig through the portions of 3rd Sunday the reformation Sunday. We should allow ourselves so God can reform us by the grace of God through Holy Spirit and not to be out of the bounds that we get rejected forever and to face music. Finally, the 4th Sunday points to us the significance and the essence of the Holy communion we need to realize it is not the food though it can represent it. We must consume holy elements with full faith and respect as we become part and parcel of heaven, the body of Christ which gives us life and wholeness. May the triune God continue to bless us in this fruitful season.
Rev. Biju Y
Assistant Vicar, The Chicago Mar Thoma Church