The Kingship of Jesus – A Reign of Love and Service

 

Introduction:

Today, we celebrate the feast of the Kingship of Jesus. The concept of kingship has fascinated humanity for centuries. When we think of a king, we often picture grandeur—crowns, thrones, armies, and authority. Kings are seen as protectors and rulers, responsible for enforcing laws and bringing order. Throughout history, kings have been admired for their courage and leadership, but also criticized for greed and tyranny.

Even in our modern world, where monarchies are largely ceremonial, the idea of kingship still stirs a deep longing in us. A king represents leadership, unity, and justice—qualities we often seek in our leaders. Yet, earthly kingship is flawed. It is temporary, limited by human weakness, and often falls short of its ideals. It is in this context that the kingship of Jesus stands apart. His reign is not about wealth, power, or domination but about love, service, and sacrifice. Jesus redefines what it means to be a king, and His kingdom is unlike anything the world has ever seen.

Transition to Jesus’ Kingship

As we reflect on the Solemnity of Christ the King, we recognize Jesus as the King of the Universe. His kingship is not based on earthly measures of power but on humility and grace. He does not rule with armies or palaces but with the strength of His love. His throne is the Cross, His crown is made of thorns, and His law is love. In today’s Gospel (John 18:33–37), when Pilate asks Jesus if He is a king, Jesus responds, “My kingdom is not of this world.” Jesus reveals a kingdom rooted in truth and eternal life—a reign that transcends political power and human boundaries.

1. Jesus’ Kingdom Is Not of This World

In declaring that His kingdom is not of this world, Jesus highlights the profound difference between earthly rulers and Himself. Pilate, like many, thinks in terms of political authority, but Jesus speaks of a spiritual reign—a kingdom of justice, peace, and love. His reign is not imposed by force but welcomed in the hearts of those who believe.

Reflection Question: Have we truly embraced Jesus as the King of our hearts, or do we remain swayed by the fleeting powers and promises of the world?

2. A Servant King Who Leads by Example

Unlike earthly kings who demand loyalty and serve their own interests, Jesus is a Servant King. He tells His disciples, “Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant” (Matthew 20:26). Jesus exemplifies this by washing the feet of His disciples, healing the sick, and ultimately laying down His life for humanity.

His greatest act of kingship was on the Cross, where He conquered sin and death. His reign is rooted in humility, not pride, in service, not power.

Illustration: Think of a leader who has impacted you through their selflessness. Their influence likely came not from authority but from their care and service to others. This is the essence of Jesus’ kingship.

3. Jesus as Judge and Shepherd

In Matthew 25:31-46, Jesus speaks of His role as King and Judge, separating the sheep from the goats. His standard is love in action: “Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me. ” This reminds us that Jesus’ kingship is a call to serve others, especially the marginalized, the poor, and the suffering. His kingdom is built on mercy and compassion.

Challenge: Let us examine how we treat the “least” among us—the lonely, the forgotten, and the needy. By serving them, we honor Christ the King.

4. King of Hearts

Jesus’ kingship is deeply personal. He seeks to reign in our hearts, transforming us into witnesses of His grace. Accepting Him as King means repentance, faith, and obedience. It is a daily decision to live according to His values.

5. Universal King

Jesus’ kingship knows no boundaries. It unites all people under the banner of His saving love. As St. Paul writes, “…that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow…and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord” (Philippians 2:10-11).

6. An Invitation to Join His Kingdom

Jesus invites each of us to be part of His kingdom, but this requires a personal decision. His kingship is not imposed; it must be freely accepted. When we surrender to His will, we find peace, joy, and purpose in His eternal kingdom.

Practical Steps to Make Jesus King of Your Life:

•           Spend time in prayer, seeking His guidance.

•           Serve others with love and humility, especially those in need.

•           Let go of attachments to worldly power or possessions.

Conclusion

The Solemnity of Christ the King reminds us that Jesus’ kingship is unlike anything the world has ever known. His reign is one of love, service, and sacrifice, and His kingdom is everlasting. As we prepare for Advent, let us renew our commitment to Christ the King. May we allow Him to reign in our hearts, transforming us and guiding us to build His kingdom of justice, peace, and love on earth.

Edited by Fr. Joel Pullolil 

ABIDING IN JESUS: The Heart of the Christian Life

Introduction

In the Gospel of John, Jesus repeatedly invites His followers to "abide" in Him, using this profound metaphor to describe the essence of the Christian living. To abide means to remain, dwell, and find life in Jesus, much like a branch draws sustenance from the vine. He teaches, “Abide in me, and I in you... Apart from me, you can do nothing” (John 15:4-5). This invitation lies at the heart of discipleship. Through the acronym ABIDING, we will explore the significance of abiding in Jesus and how it transforms our daily lives, enabling us to grow in faith, bear fruit, and live as His disciples.

 A – Abiding as Union with Christ

Abiding begins with recognizing the importance of being united with Jesus. Just as a branch cannot survive without the vine, our spiritual lives depend entirely on our connection to Him. Jesus emphasizes this truth in John 15:4-5, reminding us that we can only thrive when we remain in Him. This union is not static but dynamic and life-giving, as Jesus prays for His followers to share in the unity He has with the Father (John 17:20-23). Strengthening this bond requires a commitment to prayer, worship, and participation in the sacraments, which serve as vital channels of grace.

B – Building on His Word

To abide in Jesus also means allowing His words to dwell within us. In John 8:31-32, Jesus highlights the transformative power of His teachings, which bring truth and freedom. In John 15:7, He emphasizes that abiding in Him involves aligning our lives with His Word. This requires dedication to reading and meditating on Scripture daily, letting its truths guide our thoughts, words, and actions. As His Word takes root in us, it shapes our lives, leading us closer to Him and equipping us to face life’s challenges with wisdom and clarity.

 I – Immersing in His Love

Abiding in Jesus calls us to remain in His love, a love that mirrors the perfect love shared between the Father and the Son (John 15:9-10). This love is not merely a feeling, but a commitment expressed through obedience and selfless service. Jesus assures us that abiding in His love allows us to experience His joy and peace. Immersing in His love means embracing a life of kindness, compassion, and generosity. It involves serving our families, neighbors, and the marginalized, allowing His love to flow through us and touch others.

 D – Drawing Strength from the Eucharist

The Eucharist is a profound way to abide in Jesus. In John 6:56, He says, “Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood remains in me, and I in them.” This sacrament sustains and deepens our union with Christ, providing the spiritual nourishment we need to journey through life. By participating regularly in the Eucharist with reverence and gratitude, we draw closer to Jesus and find the strength to live out our faith. The Eucharist is a reminder of His abiding presence and the source of divine life that empowers us to persevere in our Christian Walk.

 I – Inviting the Holy Spirit

The Holy Spirit plays an essential role in helping us abide in Jesus. In John 14:16-17, Jesus promises the Spirit as a helper who will dwell within us. The Spirit empowers, guides, and comforts us, enabling us to live as faithful disciples. Inviting the Holy Spirit into our lives requires a conscious effort to be aware of His presence. Through prayer and discernment, we can seek His guidance in making decisions, facing challenges, and growing in faith. Trusting in the Spirit allows us to remain rooted in Christ, no matter the circumstances.

 N – Nurturing Fruitfulness

Abiding in Jesus naturally leads to fruitfulness. In John 15:7-8, He explains that staying connected to Him results in bearing fruit for God’s kingdom. This fruit includes spiritual virtues such as love, joy, and peace (Galatians 5:22-23) and tangible acts of service that reflect His love. Nurturing fruitfulness involves examining how we can serve others in our families, workplaces, and communities. Whether through small acts of kindness or bold steps of faith, we are called to share the Gospel and glorify God through our lives.

 G – Growing in Joy and Hope

Abiding in Jesus brings a joy that transcends circumstances, and a hope anchored in His promises. In John 15:11, Jesus assures us that abiding in Him fills us with His joy, and in John 17:20-23, He speaks of the hope of eternal communion with Him. This joy and hope sustain us during trials and remind us of the ultimate purpose of our journey: to be with Him forever. Embracing this joy involves celebrating His promises daily and allowing His peace to fill our hearts, even in difficult moments.

 Conclusion

Abiding in Jesus is not a one-time decision but a lifelong journey of staying connected to Him. It is a dynamic process of drawing life from Him, being transformed by His presence, and allowing His Spirit to guide us. By living out the principles of ABIDING, we deepen our relationship with Jesus, bear fruit for His kingdom, and experience His joy and peace. Jesus invites us with these words: “Abide in me, and I in you... These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full” (John 15:4, 11).

May we respond to this call wholeheartedly, embracing the life-giving connection with Jesus, the true vine, and live as faithful disciples for His glory.

Embracing New Life Rooted in Christ the Supreme

 

Introduction

Paul’s Letter to the Colossians addresses a young Christian community in Colossae, a city where diverse philosophical and religious ideas could have influenced their faith. Paul’s letter is a reminder of Christ’s supremacy and an exhortation to live a life that reflects His teachings. He provides guidance on how to resist false teachings and embrace a renewed way of living rooted in Christ.

Themes in Colossians (C.H.R.I.S.T.)

C – Christ's Supremacy

Paul’s letter begins with a majestic description of Christ’s role in creation and His divine nature. Colossians 1:15-20 emphasize that:

• Christ is the image of the invisible God: He reveals God’s nature to humanity.
• All things were created through and for Him: Everything in heaven and earth owes its existence to Christ.
• Christ is the head of the Church: He governs the Church, empowering and uniting believers.
• Christ reconciles all things: Through His death and resurrection, Christ has brought peace and restored the relationship between humanity and God.

This central theme establishes that Christ is supreme and sufficient, guiding believers to rely on Him alone rather than seeking truth elsewhere.

H – Holiness in Living

Paul calls the Colossians to live a holy life, shedding their past sinful behaviors and embracing a new life in Christ. In Colossians 3:5-10, he encourages them to:

• Put to death their earthly nature: Avoiding immorality, greed, anger, and malice.
• Clothe themselves in virtues: Such as compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience.
• Forgive as Christ forgave: Recognizing the importance of forgiveness in building unity within the community.

Holiness in living means aligning one’s character with Christ’s, reflecting His love and purity in everyday actions and attitudes.

R – Rejecting False Teachings

One of Paul’s key messages in this letter is a warning against deceptive philosophies and rituals that could mislead the Colossians (Colossians 2:8-23). He advises them to:

• Beware of human philosophies: Some teachings may sound wise but are rooted in human tradition rather than Christ.
• Avoid unnecessary rituals: Paul emphasizes that Christ has fulfilled the Old Testament laws, making additional rites and ascetic practices unnecessary.
• Reject the worship of angels or other beings: Christ is the only mediator between God and humanity.

By remaining rooted in Christ and His teachings, the Colossians can avoid distractions and live in the fullness of their faith.

I – Interpersonal Conduct

Paul instructs the Colossians on how they should behave in their relationships, emphasizing love and respect. In Colossians 3:12-17 and 3:18-25, he provides guidance on:

• Loving one another: Putting on love as a “bond of perfection” that unites believers.
• Respecting family roles: Paul speaks to husbands, wives, children, and servants, encouraging mutual respect and submission out of reverence for God.
• Building peace and forgiveness: Allowing Christ’s peace to rule in their hearts and bearing with each other’s faults.

These guidelines for interpersonal conduct help create a harmonious community that mirrors God’s love.

S – Spiritual Growth

Paul emphasizes the importance of spiritual maturity and growth in the knowledge of God. In Colossians 2:6-7, he encourages believers to:

• Be rooted and built up in Christ: Grounding their lives firmly in faith.
• Grow in knowledge and understanding: Developing wisdom to discern God’s will.
• Live with confidence in the faith: Letting their faith shape every aspect of their lives.

Paul’s vision for the Colossians is a faith that matures over time, leading them to reflect Christ more deeply.

T – Thanksgiving and Prayer

Paul calls the Colossians to a life filled with gratitude and prayer. In Colossians 4:2-4, he emphasizes:

• Devotion to prayer: Staying watchful and prayerful in their daily lives.
• A spirit of thankfulness: Recognizing and thanking God for His grace and blessings.
• Praying for others: Paul specifically asks the Colossians to pray for him and for the spread of the gospel.

Prayer and thanksgiving are essential for maintaining a close relationship with God and for staying spiritually vigilant.

 

Conclusion Paul’s Letter to the Colossians serves as a reminder that Christ is central to every aspect of a believer’s life. By focusing on CHRIST—His supremacy, the call to holiness, rejecting false teachings, respectful interpersonal conduct, spiritual growth, and a life of prayer and gratitude—Paul provides a roadmap for living a life that reflects the gospel. Through Christ, believers find purpose, transformation, and unity as they live out their faith in every dimension of life. This CHRIST acronym captures Paul’s guidance for the Colossians, emphasizing a faith that is deeply rooted in Christ and manifests through love, wisdom, and commitment to God’s truth.

Edited by  Fr. Joel Pullolil CMI

 

Hope Does Not Disappoint

 

The Central Theme of Spes Non Confundit

Introduction

Hope is a cornerstone of Christian faith, offering strength and direction in times of trial and uncertainty. Pope Francis' papal bull, Spes Non Confundit (Hope Does Not Disappoint), issued to proclaim the Jubilee Year 2025, centers on the theological and practical dimensions of hope in contemporary Christian life. The document emphasizes hope as both a divine gift and a call to action. Grounded in Romans 5:5, the bull explores how hope sustains faith, fosters renewal, and drives meaningful action. This document examines the importance of hope in the light of Pope Francis’ teachings, highlighting its role as a spiritual virtue, a communal responsibility, and a source of eternal promise. This theme is captured through the acronym H.O.P.E., representing Healing through Mercy, Outreach to the Marginalized, Promise of Eternal Life, and Engaging as Witnesses of Hope

Central Themes

H – Healing through Mercy ((Hope in Pilgrimage and Renewal)

The bull identifies mercy as a primary expression of hope. Pilgrimages to Holy Doors and the Sacrament of Reconciliation are emphasized as opportunities to encounter God’s healing love. Pope Francis writes: "The pilgrimage is a journey of hope—a step toward embracing God’s mercy, which mends the brokenness within us and restores our faith in His promises.". These acts symbolize spiritual renewal and offer a path for believers to realign their lives with God’s will. The healing aspect of hope allows Christians to face life's trials with renewed strength and purpose.

O – Outreach to the Marginalized (Hope as a Catalyst for Justice and Solidarity)

Pope Francis calls for hope to be lived out through solidarity with the vulnerable. He emphasizes care for the poor, the sick, migrants, prisoners, and those on the margins of society. The document states: "Hope compels us to extend God’s mercy to the most vulnerable, recognizing Christ in their faces and restoring dignity through acts of love. “Additionally, the Pope urges the Church to advocate for justice, including addressing ecological crises and economic inequalities. This outreach is a tangible manifestation of Christian hope in action.

P – Promise of Eternal Life (Hope Rooted in Eternal Life)

Hope in Christian life is ultimately rooted in the promise of eternal life, made possible through Christ’s death and resurrection. Pope Francis reflects: "The Resurrection of Christ is the bedrock of our hope, assuring us that suffering and death are not the final words but gateways to eternal communion with God. "The Jubilee invites believers to reflect on this promise, drawing strength to endure trials with the assurance of ultimate victory in God’s kingdom. This eschatological dimension shapes the Christian perspective on life’s purpose and challenges.

E – Engaging as Witnesses of Hope (Hope as a Spiritual Virtue)

Pope Francis calls on the faithful to be active witnesses of hope in a fractured world. He writes:
"In a world often overshadowed by despair, Christians are called to radiate hope through their actions, words, and lives, inspiring others to trust in the Lord."

This engagement involves fostering unity, building peace, and inspiring trust in God’s love. It also includes advocacy for a common celebration of Easter among Christian denominations, a gesture of unity symbolizing shared hope in Christ.

Conclusion

The Jubilee Year 2025, as outlined in Spes Non Confundit, is an invitation to rediscover and embody the transformative power of hope. Through H.O.P.E.—Healing through Mercy, Outreach to the Marginalized, Promise of Eternal Life, and Engaging as Witnesses of Hope—the Church can serve as a beacon of light in a world yearning for renewal. As Pope Francis reminds us: "Hope does not disappoint because it is grounded in God’s love, poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit. Let us walk this path of hope, bringing its light to every corner of our lives and the world."

This call to live as witnesses of hope ensures that the Jubilee will not only renew individual but also inspire global transformation rooted in faith, mercy, and love.

Righeousness of God

Introduction 

Paul's Letter to the Romans is a foundational text in Christian theology, offering profound insights into the nature of God’s righteousness, the path to salvation, and how believers should live in response to God’s grace. The themes of Romans are deeply interconnected, touching on topics such as justification, sanctification, and the power of the Holy Spirit. Through the acronym REDEMPTION, we can capture the key teachings that form the heart of this letter, guiding believers toward a life transformed by God’s love and grace. 

R - Righteousness of God Revealed

"For in the gospel the righteousness of God is revealed—a righteousness that is by faith from first to last, just as it is written: 'The righteous will live by faith.'" (Romans 1:17)

Paul begins Romans by declaring that the righteousness of God is revealed through the gospel of Jesus Christ. This righteousness is not something that can be earned through human effort but is granted to those who have faith in Jesus. It is a key theme that demonstrates God’s justice, His holy nature, and His way of making humanity right with Him. Through faith, believers are declared righteous, despite their sinfulness.

E - Empowered by the Spirit

"The Spirit you received does not make you slaves, so that you live in fear again; rather, the Spirit you received brought about your adoption to sonship. And by him we cry, 'Abba, Father.'" (Romans 8:15). The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in the life of the believer. Paul teaches that the Spirit empowers Christians to live in freedom, not bound by fear or sin. The Spirit assures believers of their adoption as children of God and empowers them to live righteously. Through the Spirit, they are transformed and enabled to live according to God’s will.

D - Death and Baptism Unite Us with Christ

"We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life." (Romans 6:4)

Paul explains that baptism is a symbol of the believer's union with Christ in His death and resurrection. When a believer is baptized, they are identifying with Christ’s death, symbolizing the death of their old sinful nature. Just as Christ was raised from the dead, they are raised to live a new, transformed life. This theme emphasizes the spiritual renewal and transformation that comes through Christ.

E - Ethical Living as a Response to Grace

"Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind." (Romans 12:2). Paul calls believers to live out their faith by embodying ethical and moral behavior. Living righteously is a natural response to the grace of God, which has been poured out on them. Christians are not to be conformed to worldly patterns of sin but to be transformed by God’s power, reflecting His holiness in their thoughts, words, and actions. This theme underscores the importance of ethical living in the Christian life.

M - Mercy and Sovereignty of God

"I will have mercy on whom I have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I have compassion." (Romans 9:15). God’s mercy is central to the message of Romans. Paul discusses how God, in His sovereignty, has chosen to show mercy to whomever He wills, regardless of human merit. This teaches believers that salvation is not based on works or heritage but on God’s grace. His sovereignty assures that His plans are good, even when human understanding falls short.

 P - Peace Through Justification by Faith

"Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ." (Romans 5:1). Justification is a key concept in Romans. Through faith in Jesus Christ, believers are justified—declared righteous—by God. This justification brings peace with God, ending the hostility caused by sin. The peace that comes through justification is not just an inner sense of calm but a restored relationship with God, made possible through the work of Jesus on the cross.

T - Transformation and Sanctification

"For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son." (Romans 8:29). Sanctification is the process by which believers are transformed into the image of Christ. This transformation is a continual process, empowered by the Holy Spirit. As believers grow in their faith, they are sanctified—set apart for God’s purposes—becoming more like Christ in their thoughts, actions, and character. This theme emphasizes the ongoing nature of spiritual growth.

I - Inclusion of All Through Faith

"There is no difference between Jew and Gentile, for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God." (Romans 3:22-23). Paul stresses the inclusivity of God’s salvation plan. While there were distinctions between Jews and Gentiles, Paul makes it clear that all people, regardless of background, are in need of salvation. Through faith in Christ, both Jews and Gentiles are brought into the family of God, highlighting the universal reach of God’s grace.

O - Obedience to Governing Authorities

"Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established." (Romans 13:1). Paul encourages believers to respect and obey governing authorities. This obedience is not simply a social duty but an expression of submission to God’s sovereignty. He teaches that all authority comes from God, and resisting it is ultimately resisting God’s will. This theme highlights the importance of living responsibly in society.

N - No Separation from God’s Love

"For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord." (Romans 8:38-39)

Paul concludes his letter with the assurance that nothing can separate believers from the love of God. This divine love is unshakable and eternal, offering comfort and security to all who are in Christ. This theme underscores the steadfast nature of God's love and the eternal security of the believer.

 Conclusion

The themes of REDEMPTION in Paul’s Letter to the Romans offer a comprehensive understanding of salvation, the believer’s transformation, and the righteousness of God. From the revelation of God’s righteousness to the assurance of His unbreakable love, Paul’s teachings guide believers toward living a life that is marked by faith, grace, and obedience. Through these themes, we are reminded that salvation is a gift from God, available to all who believe, and that it transforms every aspect of our lives. As we live in response to God’s grace, we reflect His righteousness and love in the world.

"To the only wise God be glory forever through Jesus Christ! Amen." (Romans 16:27)

Edited: Fr. Joel George CMI

 

Spiritual Path of St. Kuriakose Elias Chavara

 

CHAVARA: The Spiritual Path of St. Kuriakose Elias Chavara

St. Kuriakose Elias Chavara, a beloved 19th-century saint from Kerala, India, lived a life of devotion, service, and deep faith that has continued to inspire generations of Christians. His spirituality offers a model for following Jesus through a life of holiness, humility, and commitment to community. By adopting the acronym CHAVARA, we can summarize the key aspects of his teachings, providing a pathway for the faithful to deepen their faith and walk more closely in the footsteps of Christ.

C - Commitment to Holiness

St. Chavara believed personal holiness was foundational for Christian life, encouraging believers to “be holy and lead others to holiness.” His Testament of a Loving Father urges Christians to pursue sanctity as an example to others, mirroring Jesus’ call to His followers to “be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect” (Matthew 5:48). His emphasis on inner transformation and closeness with God remains central to his spiritual legacy.

H - Humble Service to Others

Inspired by Jesus' teaching to serve “the least of these” (Matthew 25:40), St. Chavara dedicated his life to serving the marginalized and uplifted the disadvantaged by establishing schools, orphanages, and social centers. His acts of charity were not merely gestures of help but reflections of Jesus’ compassion, a reminder that following Christ means a life of service and selflessness.

A - Adoration and Eucharistic Devotion

St. Chavara’s spirituality was deeply Eucharistic, with a devotion to the presence of Christ in the Eucharist that provided him strength and guidance. His writings emphasize the importance of adoration, reflecting Jesus’ invitation to “remain in me” (John 15:4). He spent significant time in prayer before the Blessed Sacrament, finding in this communion with Jesus a source of inspiration for his mission and ministry.

V - Vision of Transformation Through Education

Education was at the heart of St. Chavara’s mission. He believed in the transformative power of knowledge as a means to uplift individuals and communities. This vision led him to establish Kerala’s first Catholic school, with the conviction that education cultivates both wisdom and virtue. His approach reflects the biblical call for growth in knowledge and wisdom (Proverbs 1:5) and shows how spiritual transformation is supported by intellectual development.

A - Absolute Devotion to Mary

St. Chavara’s devotion to Mary, the Mother of Jesus, played a central role in his spirituality. He saw Mary as an ideal model of obedience and faith, often entrusting his personal and communal needs to her care. His devotion to Mary, who fully accepted God’s plan (Luke 1:38), reflects his desire to follow her example of humility and surrender to God’s will.

R - Rootedness in Community and Family Life

One of the most cherished aspects of St. Chavara’s spirituality is his vision of family and community as “domestic churches.” He believed that the home was where faith should be practiced daily and viewed strong family values as the foundation of a faith-filled life. His Testament of a Loving Father provides guidance for families to live out Christian virtues, reflecting the teaching of St. Paul: “Bear with each other and forgive one another” (Colossians 3:13-14).

A - Apostolic Zeal for Evangelization

Although he remained within Kerala, St. Chavara’s heart burned with missionary zeal. He saw his work in education and social upliftment as ways to share the Gospel, and he established religious congregations to continue this work. His zeal embodies Jesus' Great Commission to “go and make disciples of all nations” (Matthew 28:19). St. Chavara believed that living a Christ-centered life in both word and deed was a powerful form of evangelization.

 

Conclusion

The CHAVARA acronym—Commitment to Holiness, Humble Service, Adoration, Vision of Transformation through Education, Absolute Devotion to Mary, Rootedness in Community and Family Life, and Apostolic Zeal for Evangelization—captures the essence of St. Chavara’s spirituality. His life and writings, especially his Testament of a Loving Father, continue to inspire Christians to live with devotion, humility, and compassion. By following this path, the faithful can nurture a deeper relationship with Jesus and embody His love in every aspect of life. St. Chavara’s legacy shows us that true discipleship is both contemplative and active, rooted in love for God and service to others.