Today’s readings give us two beautiful images: the Ark of the Covenant in Exodus and the dragnet in Matthew’s Gospel.
The Ark was a visible sign of the invisible presence of God. It reminded Israel that God was not far away but journeyed with them, even in deserts, doubts, and dangers.
In the Gospel, Jesus speaks about a dragnet that catches all kinds of fish. This is an image of the Church: it welcomes everyone, saints and sinners, the strong and the struggling. It is not meant for a perfect few but for all who seek Him.
Both readings speak to me deeply of presence and grace. As a Jesuit, I have come to see again and again that God truly is with us quietly, gently, and often in unexpected ways. This presence gives me hope, especially when life feels confusing or broken.
Today, as we remember St. Ignatius of Loyola, I don’t just think of him as the founder of the Society of Jesus but as a fellow pilgrim. Ignatius called himself the pilgrim because he was always searching for where God was leading him next. His life reminds me, and all of us, to stay open each day to God’s quiet invitations, which often come through people, moments, and needs that might at first feel like interruptions.
Ignatius lived during a time when the Church was hurting and needed renewal. He trusted that real change does not start with grand gestures but with one person truly encountering God and letting that encounter shape their choices.
So, as I reflect on these readings, on Ignatius’s life, and on my own small failings and learnings, I feel invited again to be a pilgrim: attentive, grateful, and hopeful. My hope is that all of us can be pilgrims too, people who notice God’s presence in ordinary days, who do not walk past those in need, who open the net wide and welcome all.
May St. Ignatius remind us that God is always journeying with us, and may we find the courage to say yes to His quiet invitations, for His greater glory and the good of all.
Rev. Anish Kochanichottil, SJ
My name is Anish Kochanichottil. I am a Jesuit from India, currently residing at the Jerome Nadal Jesuit Residence while pursuing my MBA from Creighton University. Before coming to the USA, I was involved in school education for over a decade. My academic background includes a doctorate in education, with research focused on Critical Pedagogy and Missionary Education. I am truly excited to be part of the online ministry’s daily reflections and to share my insights.
