8. 2nd Ordinary Sunday 2023, January 14: Life in the Body - Embracing the Holy Spirit within

As we get into the rhythm of everyday activities and adventures, the past leaves behind us memories and experiences. What matters most in our lives is the present. St Augustine had difficulty in defining the essence of presence. He states in his book "Confessions" that by the moment I say what "present" is, the "present" is gone. The time is past moving and we are lost in the past. Even though, we care so much about the present yet living in the "now" is extremely difficult. Often we concentrate either on the past or in the future. The future is on the way. With our past experiences, we prepare for the future. Because the future is uncertain, vague and enigmatic. The liturgical readings for this Second Sunday of the month invite us to live in the present just as young Samuel was called or the first disciples of Jesus found Messiah. They found what they were looking for in the present.