We should all strive to have the faith of Job especially in times of trials and difficulties. As the old saying goes, "When the tough gets going, the going gets tough!" It is only during these tough times that we can practice strength and endurance in our faith. This is all because we believe that we have a mighty vindicator in God our Savior. Amen. Hallelujah!
Job 19:21-27
...But as for me, I know that my Vindicator lives, ...
We always have hope in the Lord who knows what's best for each one of us. All we have to do is call on the Lord, trust that He hears the sound of our call and wait for Him with courage. Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalm 27:7-8a, 8b-9abc, 13-14
R: I believe that I shall see the good things of the Lord in the land of the living.
7 Hear, O LORD, the sound of my call; have pity on me, and answer me. 8 Of you my heart speaks; you my glance seeks. (R) Your presence, O LORD, I seek. 9 Hide not your face from me; do not in anger repel your servant. You are my helper: cast me not off. (R) 13 I believe that I shall see the bounty of the LORD in the land of the living. 14 Wait for the LORD with courage; be stout-hearted, and wait for the LORD.
Jesus knows exactly the kind of life we are headed to if we heed His call. What He expects from us is courage to go on and He will do the rest. Let us trust that God is truly the Good Shepherd who never abandons nor forsakes the lambs in the midst of the wolves. We, Catholics believe that God gave human beings reason although it sometimes gets darkened by sin but still human reason can figure out some things. One of the things that human beings figure out without God having to reveal it, is that human beings need to meet 4 qualities to be deemed a human being. The philosopher, before even Plato, Aristotle and Socrates, had this figured out. We find it mentioned in Wisdom 8:7, the 4 virtues or qualities are also called the hinge virtues because it is where all the other virtues or qualities of good people would hinge. The word cardinal means hinge. The Cardinals who surround the Pope are the doorway to the Pope. They are also the ones whom he rely the most for advice. Everything else depends on the cardinal virtues. (Prudence or wisdom, justice, temperance and courage or fortitude) Prudence is the ability to make right decisions in complex situations. They are decisions that lead to the best and right thing. Without this we can be in big trouble. We’ve got to be able to decide in a situation that we’re in what the right thing to do which is the best thing to do. How do we get something done? There are some folks who probably just can’t figure out what to do. There are other folks who look at the problem and they can figure out a solution. It’s a core and they execute that core. It’s practical wisdom. We’ll find in the Book of Proverbs a lot of things about wisdom even in Sirach, Ecclesiastes and all the wisdom literature in scriptures. We can also find all the other 3 cardinal virtues, like justice which means giving each person his or her due. We all know even as kids instinctively how important justice is. The first thing that a kid cries out as soon as he learns how to talk if he has brothers and sisters is “Not fair, he got more than I did” or “You ask me to do more than what that person is doing.” This is because we have instinctively or natively offensive justice. Each person has rights and ought to get their due. There’s also another part of justice that we forget, that is, we have obligations and duties to everyone. A person who is unjust is not a good person. To be just, we need to control our passions. Temperance is a virtue that balances and controls our passions. It is like controlling our desire for that last piece of cake if we know that it belongs to our sister. In order to be just, we’ve got to control our appetites. Make our appetites come into line with justice, truth and goodness. We’ve got to have that balance in our life in order to be a good and effective person. Temperance makes this happen. We also have to be courageous. If we are not courageous then every time a difficulty arises we’re going to shrink back. If there’s any danger involved in doing the right, just and wise thing then we’re just going to crack out and find an excuse because we’re afraid. Courage or fortitude helps us to master fear and not let fear keep us from doing what’s right. We’ve got have all these things but here’s the problem. When Adam & Eve decided to sin they let loose a weakness into our race and nature that impacts all of us. We call it original sin. Sin is not so original, we just copy what other people have done. There’s nothing creative about sin. Adam & Eve’s sin was the only original sin. What they did has an impact on us. By weakening their own nature, sin weakened man’s nature. They passed on to us a weakened nature. They separated themselves and the whole human race from friendship with God and were born into that. There’s a tendency in our nature to go on a downward drift, a drift off course and a tendency to a great degree is dealt with through grace. How do we get grace? Through the death and resurrection of Jesus, God has made possible for us, healing of our humanity. He gives us other gifts, faith, hope and charity that make it possible for us to really have wisdom, justice, temperance and courage. Without faith, hope and charity in this life, no one can really become truly wise. All throughout human history we see people who exercise these gifts. They may not be Christians, deeply spiritual people, or in a state of grace and can exercise some of these potentials here and there. But ultimately original sin means we are going to sin seriously and mess up. We need God’s grace for those 4 great virtues to be perfected. Faith, hope and charity are supernatural. These are things that human beings would never know that they need or could have without God giving them supernaturally that’s why they are called the theological virtues. We only know about them through divine revelation and we couldn’t know about them by reason. We can only have them through God’s grace. The theological virtues, faith, hope and charity are the crown of the first 4 cardinal virtues that transform and make them possible. God doesn’t want us just to be whole human beings and restore us to what Adam & were when they blew it in the Garden. God wants us to be more than that. He wants to elevate our human nature and divinize it. He wants us to share in His own Divine nature. Charity is all about loving with God’s love. Loving as the 3 persons of the Holy Trinity love each other and sharing in that goes way beyond human nature. This is an incredible thing and call. It was only possible because God became man and we can share in his virtue. This is what the real Catholic life is all about. It’s not just about making it or going to heaven by the skin of your teeth after struggling. It’s about growing in holiness and becoming like Jesus all throughout our life, a champion not without struggles. As a matter of fact without the struggles we can never become a champion. It is possible with victory and excellence not with hopelessness, despair and frustration. This is God’s desire for us which is a fantastic calling. The power to do this is given to us. Amen. Hallelujah!
Luke 10:1-12
...Go on your way; behold, I am sending you like lambs among wolves...
Thursday, September 30, 2010
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
ANGELS TO THE RESCUE
There are many special events that I can associate with the angel miraculously imprinted in the fresh petal I got from a healing service in Oct 21, 2007 ( my mother's brithday). Prior to this I had extraordinary experiences within the month of Oct. 2007 surrounding and pointing to it. October 2 is feast day of the guardian angels and it was at that time in 2007 when I almost lost my wallet with all my cash money in it. My friend Joy and I were already 2 blocks away from the restaurant where we ate when I suddenly felt a tap in my shoulder which alerted me to the fact that I do not have my wallet inside my purse. It was a tap so quick and it felt like I was just imagining it. We quickly returned to look for my wallet but Joy told me that there is a chance we might not find it anymore because she saw a bum circling around the place before we left. Both to our surprise, I found my wallet lying on the floor and picked it up immediately. A woman who was also there and saw what happened told me that I am very lucky. 2 weeks after that still within Oct 2007 my name got picked in a Nurse Expo lottery and won a $1000 gift card. I still have the petal with me. It is a testimony of God's everlasting love and mercy. There is no doubt that angels are always about us, ministering and attending to our needs. Amen. Hallelujah
Daniel 7:9-10, 13-14 (or Revelation 12:7-12a)
...Thousands upon thousands were ministering to him, and myriads upon myriads attended him...
I have always believed in angels even before I got the miracle petal. I can still remember and will never forget how my mother used to narrate to us how I was miraculously saved by my angel several times. First was when I was still less than 2 months old, I guess, and I fell from a height of 2-3 ft countertop when the nanny after giving me a bath left me for only a second to get something and upon returning found me already unconscious and lying on the hard, ceramic tiled floor. I was rushed to the doctor but he told them that if I fail to regain consciousness within an hour then he said I am gone. To everybody's surprise I started to cry even before the time is up. Another one was when I was barely 2 yrs old when I almost got hit by a speeding jeepney. My parent's house is right beside my grandparent's house which is right in front of the school where my mother used to be a public school teacher. She said she was standing in the center of the stage of the school that was why she had a good view of the things around her even the terrace of my grandparent's house so she got the shock of her life when she saw me there alone running very fast heading toward the open gate while a speeding jeepney was coming and looked as if I would really get hit and it would be too late even if somebody was there to stop me. She was already screaming from afar together with the other teachers who saw it and was trying to call the attention of the driver but to no avail for he didn't even slow down because their screams were of no match to the loud engine of the jeep. It was just a miracle that the moment I stepped on the side of the road she said that I suddenly stopped and stood very still as if someone was holding me back. She said it was my guardian angel who held me and prevented me from getting hit by the jeep. I don't remember personally any of those experiences it was only through my mother's stories that I came to know about them. But when I was older like in 4th grade I could already remember how I was spared again from being hurt seriously when the fluorescent lamp right on top of my head fell on my desk a split second after I stood up and left my chair. My classmates were really shocked and were hovering around me and told me that it was really close. There is no doubt that we should sing the praises of the Lord in the sight of the angels. Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalm 138:1-2ab, 2cde-3, 4-5
R: In the sight of the angels I will sing your praises, Lord.
1 I will give thanks to you, O LORD, with all my heart, for you have heard the words of my mouth; in the presence of the angels I will sing your praise; 2 I will worship at your holy temple and give thanks to your name. (R) Because of your kindness and your truth; for you have made great above all things your name and your promise. 3 When I called, you answered me; you built up strength within me. (R) 4 All the kings of the earth shall give thanks to you, O LORD, when they hear the words of your mouth; 5 and they shall sing of the ways of the LORD: “Great is the glory of the LORD.”
If we just try to look back and recall we will find that all throughout our lifetimes we really have a lot of things to be thankful for. On top of it all is the promise of Jesus our Savior to see greater things than we have all witnessed for the best is yet to come. Amen. Hallelujah!
John 1:47-51
...You will see greater things than this.”…
St. Michael the Archangel, pray for us.
Daniel 7:9-10, 13-14 (or Revelation 12:7-12a)
...Thousands upon thousands were ministering to him, and myriads upon myriads attended him...
I have always believed in angels even before I got the miracle petal. I can still remember and will never forget how my mother used to narrate to us how I was miraculously saved by my angel several times. First was when I was still less than 2 months old, I guess, and I fell from a height of 2-3 ft countertop when the nanny after giving me a bath left me for only a second to get something and upon returning found me already unconscious and lying on the hard, ceramic tiled floor. I was rushed to the doctor but he told them that if I fail to regain consciousness within an hour then he said I am gone. To everybody's surprise I started to cry even before the time is up. Another one was when I was barely 2 yrs old when I almost got hit by a speeding jeepney. My parent's house is right beside my grandparent's house which is right in front of the school where my mother used to be a public school teacher. She said she was standing in the center of the stage of the school that was why she had a good view of the things around her even the terrace of my grandparent's house so she got the shock of her life when she saw me there alone running very fast heading toward the open gate while a speeding jeepney was coming and looked as if I would really get hit and it would be too late even if somebody was there to stop me. She was already screaming from afar together with the other teachers who saw it and was trying to call the attention of the driver but to no avail for he didn't even slow down because their screams were of no match to the loud engine of the jeep. It was just a miracle that the moment I stepped on the side of the road she said that I suddenly stopped and stood very still as if someone was holding me back. She said it was my guardian angel who held me and prevented me from getting hit by the jeep. I don't remember personally any of those experiences it was only through my mother's stories that I came to know about them. But when I was older like in 4th grade I could already remember how I was spared again from being hurt seriously when the fluorescent lamp right on top of my head fell on my desk a split second after I stood up and left my chair. My classmates were really shocked and were hovering around me and told me that it was really close. There is no doubt that we should sing the praises of the Lord in the sight of the angels. Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalm 138:1-2ab, 2cde-3, 4-5
R: In the sight of the angels I will sing your praises, Lord.
1 I will give thanks to you, O LORD, with all my heart, for you have heard the words of my mouth; in the presence of the angels I will sing your praise; 2 I will worship at your holy temple and give thanks to your name. (R) Because of your kindness and your truth; for you have made great above all things your name and your promise. 3 When I called, you answered me; you built up strength within me. (R) 4 All the kings of the earth shall give thanks to you, O LORD, when they hear the words of your mouth; 5 and they shall sing of the ways of the LORD: “Great is the glory of the LORD.”
If we just try to look back and recall we will find that all throughout our lifetimes we really have a lot of things to be thankful for. On top of it all is the promise of Jesus our Savior to see greater things than we have all witnessed for the best is yet to come. Amen. Hallelujah!
John 1:47-51
...You will see greater things than this.”…
St. Michael the Archangel, pray for us.
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
IT'S PAID
No one can totally claim to know what's in store for us in the days to come. No matter how well planned and structured we've made our lives nothing can be too sure. In all these uncertainties and disappointments we've met along the way, we can be sure of one thing. After all Job has been through, he was quite sure about something also in today's 1st reading. There is no doubt about it and we can surely be at peace with the fact that God has hemmed in our paths. Amen. Hallelujah!
Job 3:1-3, 11-17, 20-23
...They wait for death and it comes not; they search for it rather than for hidden treasures, 22 rejoice in it exultingly, and are glad when they reach the grave 23 men whose path is hidden from them, and whom God has hemmed in!
Sometimes we are tempted not to say our prayers nor make any special effort to be good. It would have been easy to fall into sin and stop befriending God. We know deep down that it is not a good thought since faith is friendship with God. It is never right to just aim for the bare minimum because that is not what friends do. It is not true that we don't need God. One way to make sure that we don't forget how much we need God is to always ask Him to bless us in all we do. We can do this by offering everything to God. Our works, joys and suffering at the beginning of the day. We must not neglect this and always practice hope. There are many things that we don't understand especially with the things that happen to us. We can always trust that it comes from God. We can turn to God in times of trouble and not run away from our problems. We should rely on our friend Jesus in both good and bad times. No matter what happens we should always lift everything to God in prayers. Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalm 88:2-3, 4-5, 6, 7-8
R: Let my prayer come before you, Lord.
1 [2] O LORD, my God, by day I cry out; at night I clamor in your presence. 2 [3] Let my prayer come before you; incline your ear to my call for help.
There are things that we can't run away from no matter how bad it may seem to be. As God, Jesus knew what awaits Him in Jerusalem. In spite of it, today's gospel tells us that he resolutely determined to journey to Jerusalem. Jesus was focused on God's will and was determined to fulfill it. Nothing stopped Him from fulfilling it although He pleaded to the Father in the Garden of Gethsemane (Mt. 26:39, He advanced a little and fell prostrate in prayer, saying, "My Father, 25 if it is possible, let this cup pass from me; yet, not as I will, but as you will." and in verse 42 he repeated it again, "Withdrawing a second time, he prayed again, "My Father, if it is not possible that this cup pass without my drinking it, your will be done!" We can all learn from Jesus to be persevering in the problems and difficulties that we face in life for we all know that in the end Jesus triumphed and conquered it all. Let us not forget, He has paid the price and we have all been saved. Amen. Hallelujah!
Luke 9:51-56
51 When the days for Jesus to be taken up were fulfilled, he resolutely determined to journey to Jerusalem,...
Job 3:1-3, 11-17, 20-23
...They wait for death and it comes not; they search for it rather than for hidden treasures, 22 rejoice in it exultingly, and are glad when they reach the grave 23 men whose path is hidden from them, and whom God has hemmed in!
Sometimes we are tempted not to say our prayers nor make any special effort to be good. It would have been easy to fall into sin and stop befriending God. We know deep down that it is not a good thought since faith is friendship with God. It is never right to just aim for the bare minimum because that is not what friends do. It is not true that we don't need God. One way to make sure that we don't forget how much we need God is to always ask Him to bless us in all we do. We can do this by offering everything to God. Our works, joys and suffering at the beginning of the day. We must not neglect this and always practice hope. There are many things that we don't understand especially with the things that happen to us. We can always trust that it comes from God. We can turn to God in times of trouble and not run away from our problems. We should rely on our friend Jesus in both good and bad times. No matter what happens we should always lift everything to God in prayers. Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalm 88:2-3, 4-5, 6, 7-8
R: Let my prayer come before you, Lord.
1 [2] O LORD, my God, by day I cry out; at night I clamor in your presence. 2 [3] Let my prayer come before you; incline your ear to my call for help.
There are things that we can't run away from no matter how bad it may seem to be. As God, Jesus knew what awaits Him in Jerusalem. In spite of it, today's gospel tells us that he resolutely determined to journey to Jerusalem. Jesus was focused on God's will and was determined to fulfill it. Nothing stopped Him from fulfilling it although He pleaded to the Father in the Garden of Gethsemane (Mt. 26:39, He advanced a little and fell prostrate in prayer, saying, "My Father, 25 if it is possible, let this cup pass from me; yet, not as I will, but as you will." and in verse 42 he repeated it again, "Withdrawing a second time, he prayed again, "My Father, if it is not possible that this cup pass without my drinking it, your will be done!" We can all learn from Jesus to be persevering in the problems and difficulties that we face in life for we all know that in the end Jesus triumphed and conquered it all. Let us not forget, He has paid the price and we have all been saved. Amen. Hallelujah!
Luke 9:51-56
51 When the days for Jesus to be taken up were fulfilled, he resolutely determined to journey to Jerusalem,...
Monday, September 27, 2010
THE WIDOW & ORPHAN
I could still remember very well how my mother used to mention to us how God made all things possible for us especially at that time when my father suddenly died and we were just very young, aged 4, 3 and 1. Job is her favorite bible character, because he is the one whom she would always mention to us and whom she admired most. It could be due to the fact that like Job she almost lost everything when my father died because she was very young then. She and my father were just starting out as a family and then all of a sudden he died. She would always say that what was most hurting is the fact that my father had been a very good husband to her and good father to us which made it even more difficult for her to lose him. In addition to that is the fact that she was left all alone to carry the burden of the responsibilities of our family. It was just before my father died that we had our home built and got a big loan in the bank. She could have married a rich man whom I heard was interested in her but she did not entertain any suitors and never remarried. She had to bring up all of us by herself. At that time when she was down to almost nothing, she never thought that she could have passed through all those difficulties if not for God's Divine Providence. Amen. Hallelujah!
Job 1:6-22
...Then Job began to tear his cloak and cut off his hair. He cast himself prostrate upon the ground, 21 and said, “Naked I came forth from my mother’s womb, and naked shall I go back again. The LORD gave and the LORD has taken away; blessed be the name of the LORD!” 22 In all this Job did not sin, nor did he say anything
disrespectful of God.
We grew up always hearing our mother speak of Job's great faith and loyalty to God. She held on to every word of God in the bible and claimed every promise in it especially the one for the widow and orphan. Looking back at all those years our family had to pass through those trials and difficulties of growing up without a father by our side and our mother had to raise us all by herself there is no doubt that she did it because she inclined her ear to God and heard His word. Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalm 17:1bcd, 2-3, 6-7
R: Incline your ear to me and hear my word.
1 Hear, O LORD, a just suit; attend to my outcry; hearken to my prayer from lips without deceit. (R) 2 From you let my judgment come; your eyes behold what is right. 3 Though you test my heart, searching it in the night, though you try me with fire, you shall find no malice in me. (R) 6 I call upon you, for you will answer me, O God; incline your ear to me; hear my word. 7 Show your wondrous mercies, O savior of those who flee from their foes to refuge at your right hand.
My mother was a teacher but when my father died she had to put up an interior decorating business to augment her income. For every business quotation and proposal that she had to prepare and work for she would always say that there were other greater and well known companies that she had to compete with. She was not the greatest of all in fact maybe the least but she always ended up getting the project. She had always attributed it to God and been thankful for everything despite of it all. She has indeed experienced the liberating power of God's word in her life. Amen. Hallelujah!
Luke 9:46-50
...“Whoever receives this child in my name receives me, and whoever receives me receives the one who sent me. For the one who is least among all of you is the one who is the greatest.” ...
Job 1:6-22
...Then Job began to tear his cloak and cut off his hair. He cast himself prostrate upon the ground, 21 and said, “Naked I came forth from my mother’s womb, and naked shall I go back again. The LORD gave and the LORD has taken away; blessed be the name of the LORD!” 22 In all this Job did not sin, nor did he say anything
disrespectful of God.
We grew up always hearing our mother speak of Job's great faith and loyalty to God. She held on to every word of God in the bible and claimed every promise in it especially the one for the widow and orphan. Looking back at all those years our family had to pass through those trials and difficulties of growing up without a father by our side and our mother had to raise us all by herself there is no doubt that she did it because she inclined her ear to God and heard His word. Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalm 17:1bcd, 2-3, 6-7
R: Incline your ear to me and hear my word.
1 Hear, O LORD, a just suit; attend to my outcry; hearken to my prayer from lips without deceit. (R) 2 From you let my judgment come; your eyes behold what is right. 3 Though you test my heart, searching it in the night, though you try me with fire, you shall find no malice in me. (R) 6 I call upon you, for you will answer me, O God; incline your ear to me; hear my word. 7 Show your wondrous mercies, O savior of those who flee from their foes to refuge at your right hand.
My mother was a teacher but when my father died she had to put up an interior decorating business to augment her income. For every business quotation and proposal that she had to prepare and work for she would always say that there were other greater and well known companies that she had to compete with. She was not the greatest of all in fact maybe the least but she always ended up getting the project. She had always attributed it to God and been thankful for everything despite of it all. She has indeed experienced the liberating power of God's word in her life. Amen. Hallelujah!
Luke 9:46-50
...“Whoever receives this child in my name receives me, and whoever receives me receives the one who sent me. For the one who is least among all of you is the one who is the greatest.” ...
Sunday, September 26, 2010
POINT OF NO RETURN
The Lord in today's 1st reading calls the attention of the people in the time of Amos the prophet to act accordingly and not be mere spectators. This reminds me of the time when we had our bible study with Bro. Willy Santa Maria. We were discussing about the book of Wisdom and he touched the topic about the soul. To explain further he cited Aristotle a Greek philosopher who classified the Theory of Definition into 2 : nominal and real. The example he gave for nominal is water, being such in name only, or in appearance. The real definition, he further classified into how and "what is it meant to be?" As to "how" he defined water as H2O, relaxing and life giving. As to "what is it meant to be?" or Toti en enni in Greek he elaborated by citing the acorn that developed into a full grown oak tree. The issue on Pro-Life and Pro-Choice came to play again when the example of an egg fertilized by a sperm developing to a person was also cited. He said that Aristotle a great and well renowned Greek philosopher who was not even a Christian way back then, during his time believed in the concepts and principles advocated by Pro-Life. What an irony that nowadays, people who have been exposed to a very wide knowledge base of information all in front of us with just a click of the mouse or wide array of references and theories all laid and figured out before us and claim to be Christians and followers of God can not even decide for this vital truth and issue about life. This kind of attitude is dangerous because we have a responsibility here. Thus it can turn things against us in the end once we reach the point of no return. We've got to make a stand on issues that the Church is very clear about right now. Amen. Hallelujah!
Amos 6:1a, 4-7
Thus says the LORD the God of hosts: Woe to the complacent in Zion! ...they shall be the first to go into exile, and their wanton revelry shall be done away with...
We ought to realize by now what the wisest thing to do is not based in the standard of the world but of the Lord our God. Our confidence and trust must rest on the Lord alone who makes all good things possible. Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalm 146:7, 8-9, 9-10 (1b)
R: Praise the Lord, my soul!
7 Blessed is he who keeps faith forever, secures justice for the oppressed, gives good to the hungry. The LORD sets captives free. (R) 8 The LORD gives sight to the blind. The LORD raises up those that were bowed down; the LORD loves the just. 9 The LORD protects strangers. (R) The fatherless and the widow he sustains, but the way of the wicked he thwarts. 10 The LORD shall reign forever; your God, O Zion, through all generations. Alleluia.
When athletes train hard and focus well on their goals they have one thing in mind, to win the prize. It is something that every sportsman aim and work for. It is just the same for a man of God as today's 2nd reading tells us. Amen. Hallelujah!
1 Timothy 6:11-16
11 But you, man of God, pursue righteousness, devotion, faith, love, patience, and gentleness. 12 Compete well for the faith. Lay hold of eternal life, to which you were called when you made the noble confession in the presence of many witnesses...
Today's gospel is about Lazarus and the rich man. The emphasis is on the fact that we will be held accountable for all our actions and also for our failure to act and do the good we ought to have done. Abraham said that the rich man received what was good during his lifetime but failed to respond accordingly to the blessing he was entrusted with. Lazarus was right in front of his door but he did not see the opportunity to share his blessing to him. It was not stated in the story that the rich man did evil things. We have to look into this very carefully. Sometimes it is not what we did wrong that will make us deserve hell but what we failed to do. Let us not miss out on these things while we still have time before it gets too late just like what happened to the rich man. His firm and determined effort for resolution was useless because he already came to a point of no return. May we not find ourselves in the same situation as the rich man when nothing else can be done. While there is still time we should act now and not delay. When this time comes for us, may we find ourselves in the same position of Lazarus as in a place of comfort. Amen. Hallelujah!
Luke 16:19-31
19 Jesus said to the Pharisees: “There was a rich man who dressed in purple garments and fine linen and dined sumptuously each day. 20 And lying at his door was a poor man named Lazarus, covered with sores, 21 who would gladly have eaten his fill of the scraps that fell from the rich man’s table. Dogs even used to come and lick his sores. 22 When the poor man died, he was carried away by angels to the bosom of Abraham. The rich man also died and was buried, 23 and from the netherworld, where he was in torment, he raised his eyes and saw Abraham far off and Lazarus at his side. 24 And he cried out, ‘Father Abraham, have pity on me. Send Lazarus to dip the tip of his finger in water and cool my tongue, for I am suffering torment in these flames.’ 25 Abraham re plied, ‘My child, remember that you received what was good during your lifetime while Lazarus likewise received what was bad; but now he is comforted here, whereas you are tormented. 26 Moreover, between us and you a great chasm is established to prevent anyone from crossing who might wish to go from our side to yours or from your side to ours.’ 27 He said, ‘Then I beg you, father, send him to my father’s house, 28 for I have five brothers, so that he may warn them, lest they too come to this place of torment.’ 29 But Abraham replied, ‘They have Moses and the prophets. Let them listen to them.’ 30 He said, ‘Oh no, father Abraham, but if someone from the dead goes to them, they will repent.’ 31 Then Abraham said, ‘If they will not listen to Moses and the prophets, neither will they be persuaded if someone should rise from the dead.’ ”
Amos 6:1a, 4-7
Thus says the LORD the God of hosts: Woe to the complacent in Zion! ...they shall be the first to go into exile, and their wanton revelry shall be done away with...
We ought to realize by now what the wisest thing to do is not based in the standard of the world but of the Lord our God. Our confidence and trust must rest on the Lord alone who makes all good things possible. Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalm 146:7, 8-9, 9-10 (1b)
R: Praise the Lord, my soul!
7 Blessed is he who keeps faith forever, secures justice for the oppressed, gives good to the hungry. The LORD sets captives free. (R) 8 The LORD gives sight to the blind. The LORD raises up those that were bowed down; the LORD loves the just. 9 The LORD protects strangers. (R) The fatherless and the widow he sustains, but the way of the wicked he thwarts. 10 The LORD shall reign forever; your God, O Zion, through all generations. Alleluia.
When athletes train hard and focus well on their goals they have one thing in mind, to win the prize. It is something that every sportsman aim and work for. It is just the same for a man of God as today's 2nd reading tells us. Amen. Hallelujah!
1 Timothy 6:11-16
11 But you, man of God, pursue righteousness, devotion, faith, love, patience, and gentleness. 12 Compete well for the faith. Lay hold of eternal life, to which you were called when you made the noble confession in the presence of many witnesses...
Today's gospel is about Lazarus and the rich man. The emphasis is on the fact that we will be held accountable for all our actions and also for our failure to act and do the good we ought to have done. Abraham said that the rich man received what was good during his lifetime but failed to respond accordingly to the blessing he was entrusted with. Lazarus was right in front of his door but he did not see the opportunity to share his blessing to him. It was not stated in the story that the rich man did evil things. We have to look into this very carefully. Sometimes it is not what we did wrong that will make us deserve hell but what we failed to do. Let us not miss out on these things while we still have time before it gets too late just like what happened to the rich man. His firm and determined effort for resolution was useless because he already came to a point of no return. May we not find ourselves in the same situation as the rich man when nothing else can be done. While there is still time we should act now and not delay. When this time comes for us, may we find ourselves in the same position of Lazarus as in a place of comfort. Amen. Hallelujah!
Luke 16:19-31
19 Jesus said to the Pharisees: “There was a rich man who dressed in purple garments and fine linen and dined sumptuously each day. 20 And lying at his door was a poor man named Lazarus, covered with sores, 21 who would gladly have eaten his fill of the scraps that fell from the rich man’s table. Dogs even used to come and lick his sores. 22 When the poor man died, he was carried away by angels to the bosom of Abraham. The rich man also died and was buried, 23 and from the netherworld, where he was in torment, he raised his eyes and saw Abraham far off and Lazarus at his side. 24 And he cried out, ‘Father Abraham, have pity on me. Send Lazarus to dip the tip of his finger in water and cool my tongue, for I am suffering torment in these flames.’ 25 Abraham re plied, ‘My child, remember that you received what was good during your lifetime while Lazarus likewise received what was bad; but now he is comforted here, whereas you are tormented. 26 Moreover, between us and you a great chasm is established to prevent anyone from crossing who might wish to go from our side to yours or from your side to ours.’ 27 He said, ‘Then I beg you, father, send him to my father’s house, 28 for I have five brothers, so that he may warn them, lest they too come to this place of torment.’ 29 But Abraham replied, ‘They have Moses and the prophets. Let them listen to them.’ 30 He said, ‘Oh no, father Abraham, but if someone from the dead goes to them, they will repent.’ 31 Then Abraham said, ‘If they will not listen to Moses and the prophets, neither will they be persuaded if someone should rise from the dead.’ ”
Saturday, September 25, 2010
PAY ATTENTION
Life is too short to waste on things that will only bring grief and trouble. We should be careful on how we live our life and be responsible for our every action. If we can not undo some things, we can certainly make things work for the better. We have been equipped by the Lord and let us no longer become ignorant of this. We are able to tap into the ever flowing stream of God's Holy Spirit which bears endless fruits of love, peace, joy, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, humility and self control. Amen. Hallelujah!
Ecclesiastes 11:9-12:8
...Ward off grief from your heart and put away trouble from your presence,...
We are destined for much greater things that we can see right now. Thus we should set our goals higher than what people normally aim for in this life. Let us not reach the end of our lives regretting what we should have done or not and do what we have to do right now. Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalm 90:3-4, 5-6, 12-13, 14, 17
R: In every age, O Lord, you have been our refuge.
3 You turn man back to dust, saying, “Return, O children of men.” 4 For a thousand years in your sight are as yesterday, now that it is past, or as a watch of the night. (R) 5 You make an end of them in their sleep; the next morning they are like the changing grass, 6 which at dawn springs up anew, but by evening wilts and fades.
Let us not take for granted the things that Jesus is communicating with us everyday of our lives. What He wants for us is to gain knowledge on matters that we do not know and enrich what we already know. Nothing in what Jesus is telling us is difficult to understand nor will He purposely confuse or lead us astray. All of these we can surely have access if we will just pay attention to Him as what today's gospel is telling us. Amen. Hallelujah!
Luke 9:43b-45
43 While they were all amazed at his every deed, Jesus said to his disciples, 44 “Pay attention to what I am telling you. The Son of Man is to be handed over to men.” 45 But they did not understand this saying; its meaning was hidden from them so that they should not understand it, and they were afraid to ask him about this saying.
Ecclesiastes 11:9-12:8
...Ward off grief from your heart and put away trouble from your presence,...
We are destined for much greater things that we can see right now. Thus we should set our goals higher than what people normally aim for in this life. Let us not reach the end of our lives regretting what we should have done or not and do what we have to do right now. Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalm 90:3-4, 5-6, 12-13, 14, 17
R: In every age, O Lord, you have been our refuge.
3 You turn man back to dust, saying, “Return, O children of men.” 4 For a thousand years in your sight are as yesterday, now that it is past, or as a watch of the night. (R) 5 You make an end of them in their sleep; the next morning they are like the changing grass, 6 which at dawn springs up anew, but by evening wilts and fades.
Let us not take for granted the things that Jesus is communicating with us everyday of our lives. What He wants for us is to gain knowledge on matters that we do not know and enrich what we already know. Nothing in what Jesus is telling us is difficult to understand nor will He purposely confuse or lead us astray. All of these we can surely have access if we will just pay attention to Him as what today's gospel is telling us. Amen. Hallelujah!
Luke 9:43b-45
43 While they were all amazed at his every deed, Jesus said to his disciples, 44 “Pay attention to what I am telling you. The Son of Man is to be handed over to men.” 45 But they did not understand this saying; its meaning was hidden from them so that they should not understand it, and they were afraid to ask him about this saying.
Friday, September 24, 2010
A REASON & A MISSION
We may be going through some kind of difficulty at this time and there seems to be no end to it. It may feel like everything has turned against us and there is no way out. When things are looking bad it is always good to focus on this very popular statement of Fr. Gerry Orbos from the Philippines, "There is a reason and a mission and everything is in transition wag na makunsumisyon." The last 3 words in Tagalog can be translated as "do not fret." This reminds me of this cousin of mine a few days ago whom I just had a conversation. We’ve talked about a lot of things but what strikes me the most is when she told me,"… in God’s time.” It is indeed, Divine Providence for there is no such thing as coincidence that today’s 1st reading is a confirmation. It tells us the same thing because it gives us hope in the Lord’s perfect time. Amen. Hallelujah!
Ecclesiastes 3:1-11
1 There is an appointed time for everything, and a time for every affair under the heavens. …He has made everything appropriate to its time…
In spite of all the discouraging and heart rending events that we’ve experienced and witnessed in our lives there is one thing sure about it. In every tear that fell and heartache, God’s mercy is always upon us. He is our fortress and stronghold that we can not be moved. I have heard from this preacher on TV that we have to go to the right frame and never turn back. Once we are in the right frame then we should not be dissuaded because only immovable people can move mountains. We have to stick to the right frame because it is our fight of faith. It was also Jesus who told us in Mt. 17:20, “…Amen, I say to you, if you have faith the size of a mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there,' and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you."
P S A L M
Psalm 144:1b, 2abc, 3-4
R: Blessed be the Lord, my Rock!
… my mercy and my fortress, my stronghold, my deliverer, my shield, in whom I trust. (R) 3 LORD, what is man, that you notice him; the son of man, that you take thought of him? 4 Man is like a breath; his days, like a passing shadow.
Sometimes when we have solicited the support of the majority or won the people’s approval, we have a tendency to cloud our judgments especially when our egos become inflated with pride. Rather than focus on what is right and proper before the Lord we go by popularity. We should always keep in mind that the saying, “Majority wins” is not always what is right before the Lord. Nor should we be bothered by the opposition of other people if we do not go with the flow. In today’s gospel it is very clearly illustrated that the crowds are greatly misled and only Peter got it right. It doesn't matter what others may say or if some or most people disagree or are not pleased with our decisions what matters most is that we are right and at peace before God. Our conviction and stand on certain things should always be dependent on what Jesus tells us for He is the way, the truth and the life. Amen. Hallelujah!
Luke 9:18-22
18 Once when Jesus was praying in solitude, and the disciples were with him, he asked them, “Who do the crowds say that I am?” 19 They said in reply, “John the Baptist; others, Elijah; still others, ‘One of the ancient prophets has arisen.’ ” 20 Then he said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” Peter said in reply, “The Christ of God.” 21 He rebuked them and directed them not to tell this to anyone. 22 He said, “The Son of Man must suffer greatly and be rejected by the elders, the chief priests, and the scribes, and be killed and on the third day be raised.”
Ecclesiastes 3:1-11
1 There is an appointed time for everything, and a time for every affair under the heavens. …He has made everything appropriate to its time…
In spite of all the discouraging and heart rending events that we’ve experienced and witnessed in our lives there is one thing sure about it. In every tear that fell and heartache, God’s mercy is always upon us. He is our fortress and stronghold that we can not be moved. I have heard from this preacher on TV that we have to go to the right frame and never turn back. Once we are in the right frame then we should not be dissuaded because only immovable people can move mountains. We have to stick to the right frame because it is our fight of faith. It was also Jesus who told us in Mt. 17:20, “…Amen, I say to you, if you have faith the size of a mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there,' and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you."
P S A L M
Psalm 144:1b, 2abc, 3-4
R: Blessed be the Lord, my Rock!
… my mercy and my fortress, my stronghold, my deliverer, my shield, in whom I trust. (R) 3 LORD, what is man, that you notice him; the son of man, that you take thought of him? 4 Man is like a breath; his days, like a passing shadow.
Sometimes when we have solicited the support of the majority or won the people’s approval, we have a tendency to cloud our judgments especially when our egos become inflated with pride. Rather than focus on what is right and proper before the Lord we go by popularity. We should always keep in mind that the saying, “Majority wins” is not always what is right before the Lord. Nor should we be bothered by the opposition of other people if we do not go with the flow. In today’s gospel it is very clearly illustrated that the crowds are greatly misled and only Peter got it right. It doesn't matter what others may say or if some or most people disagree or are not pleased with our decisions what matters most is that we are right and at peace before God. Our conviction and stand on certain things should always be dependent on what Jesus tells us for He is the way, the truth and the life. Amen. Hallelujah!
Luke 9:18-22
18 Once when Jesus was praying in solitude, and the disciples were with him, he asked them, “Who do the crowds say that I am?” 19 They said in reply, “John the Baptist; others, Elijah; still others, ‘One of the ancient prophets has arisen.’ ” 20 Then he said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” Peter said in reply, “The Christ of God.” 21 He rebuked them and directed them not to tell this to anyone. 22 He said, “The Son of Man must suffer greatly and be rejected by the elders, the chief priests, and the scribes, and be killed and on the third day be raised.”
Thursday, September 23, 2010
ONE STEP MORE
I have often heard a similar line from today's 1st reading in the movies, stories that I read and even from people in real life. These are words of desperation of a person after having worked and done everything and yet in the end nothing seems to matter at all. We can also ask ourselves the same question. Why do we work so hard and for what is it all about. Is it just about the money, the fame, power, sense of self fulfillment or just for the sake of being useful and doing something. Nothing is wrong with all these things for as long as we keep the balance or not let it rule over us. As we go through our life we realize that we ought to live like other people do. Living a good and abundant life is what God wants us to have so as to reflect the goodness of God. As in John 10:10, " ...I came so that they might have life and have it more abundantly." All of these abundance will turn into vanity if we fail to put God in the center for in the end it is all that will matter. Amen. Hallelujah!
Ecclesiastes 1:2-11
2 Vanity of vanities, says Qoheleth, vanity of vanities! All things are vanity! 3 What profit has man from all the labor which he toils at under the sun?...
God is the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End. He has the final say on all things. Isn't it a very nice thing to know that this very same God has also been our refuge and strength in every age. Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalm 90:3-4, 5-6, 12-13, 14 , 17bc
R: In every age, O Lord, you have been our refuge.
3 You turn man back to dust, saying, “Return, O children of men.” 4 For a thousand years in your sight are as yesterday, now that it is past, or as a watch of the night. (R) 5 You make an end of them in their sleep; the next morning they are like the changing grass, 6 which at dawn springs up anew, but by evening wilts and fades. (R) 12 Teach us to number our days aright, that we may gain wisdom of heart...Prosper the work of our hands!
We can say all the nice things about God and believe everything about Him and think that we are the better Christians but if we remain as the spectators of our faith rather than doers then we are no different from Herod. He also came to a point when he questioned and searched for answers but he never crossed that line and did not move forward. We should be bold enough to cross that dividing line not just once but throughout our lifetime. It's like we should always pray to God as in this song, "give us faith for one step more" and another until we reach to the point of being the best Christian. Amen. Hallelujah!
Luke 9:7-9
7 Herod the tetrarch heard about all that was happening, and he was greatly perplexed because some were saying, “John has been raised from the dead”; 8 others were saying, “Elijah has appeared”; still others, “One of the ancient prophets has arisen.” 9 But Herod said, “John I beheaded. Who then is this about whom I hear such things?” And he kept trying to see him.
Ecclesiastes 1:2-11
2 Vanity of vanities, says Qoheleth, vanity of vanities! All things are vanity! 3 What profit has man from all the labor which he toils at under the sun?...
God is the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End. He has the final say on all things. Isn't it a very nice thing to know that this very same God has also been our refuge and strength in every age. Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalm 90:3-4, 5-6, 12-13, 14 , 17bc
R: In every age, O Lord, you have been our refuge.
3 You turn man back to dust, saying, “Return, O children of men.” 4 For a thousand years in your sight are as yesterday, now that it is past, or as a watch of the night. (R) 5 You make an end of them in their sleep; the next morning they are like the changing grass, 6 which at dawn springs up anew, but by evening wilts and fades. (R) 12 Teach us to number our days aright, that we may gain wisdom of heart...Prosper the work of our hands!
We can say all the nice things about God and believe everything about Him and think that we are the better Christians but if we remain as the spectators of our faith rather than doers then we are no different from Herod. He also came to a point when he questioned and searched for answers but he never crossed that line and did not move forward. We should be bold enough to cross that dividing line not just once but throughout our lifetime. It's like we should always pray to God as in this song, "give us faith for one step more" and another until we reach to the point of being the best Christian. Amen. Hallelujah!
Luke 9:7-9
7 Herod the tetrarch heard about all that was happening, and he was greatly perplexed because some were saying, “John has been raised from the dead”; 8 others were saying, “Elijah has appeared”; still others, “One of the ancient prophets has arisen.” 9 But Herod said, “John I beheaded. Who then is this about whom I hear such things?” And he kept trying to see him.
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
GO FORTH, THE TIME IS NOW
We can always take refuge and shelter in God's word in the midst of all the uncertainties and confusion that surround us. We may be hearing this and that and we may never be able to grasp what has to be done but we can always consult, find consolation and direction in God's word. In doing this we also have to attune ourselves the same frequency and wavelength of the Holy Spirit. Amen. Hallelujah!
Proverbs 30:5-9
5 Every word of God is tested; he is a shield to those who take refuge in him...
Just imagine ourselves walking in the dark without knowing what we are stepping on and where we are headed. It is very difficult there is no doubt about it. We need light to guide our steps and show the way. Today's psalm teaches us the way to always be attuned to God's Spirit in order for us to truly see the word of God, as the light shining like a lamp for our feet. Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalm 119:29, 72, 89, 101, 104, 163
R: Your word, O Lord, is a lamp for my feet.
29 Remove from me the way of falsehood, and favor me with your law. (R) 72 The law of your mouth is to me more precious than thousands of gold and silver pieces. (R) 89 Your word, O LORD, endures forever; it is firm as the heavens. (R) 101 From every evil way I withhold my feet, that I may keep your words. (R) 104 Through your precepts I gain discernment; therefore I hate every false way. (R) 163 Falsehood I hate and abhor; your law I love.
When we were baptized we all became God's children and each of us has been given the rights and privileges of being one. We have been richly endowed and blessed. Thus we should not hesitate nor back out in fulfilling the mission that the Apostles in Jesus' time were called to do. There is no reason at all to be afraid nor feel insecure or inadequate. We have been equipped well by God's power and authority as today's gospel is telling us. If we are really up to it then all our words and actions should be congruent to the greatest mission we all ought to take. My son, Jude has recently been very active with the CFC-YFL Campus Based Ministry. He has been posting messages in his Facebook to encourage people to join their upcoming activity which is the Youth Camp. This is one way of directing and guiding the steps of the young people toward God rather than be led astray by the temptations of the world. We have to go forth, whether young or old, proclaim the good news and spread the gospel. We have the power, whoever we are, whatever we do, wherever we are and the time is now. Amen. Hallelujah!
Luke 9:1-6
1 Jesus summoned the Twelve and gave them power and authority over all demons and to cure diseases, 2 and he sent them to proclaim the kingdom of God and to heal [the sick]. 3 He said to them, “Take nothing for the journey, neither walking stick, nor sack, nor food, nor money, and let no one take a second tunic. 4 Whatever house you enter, stay there and leave from there. 5 And as for those who do not welcome you, when you leave that town, shake the dust from your feet in testimony against them.” 6 Then they set out and went from village to village proclaiming the good news and curing diseases everywhere.
Proverbs 30:5-9
5 Every word of God is tested; he is a shield to those who take refuge in him...
Just imagine ourselves walking in the dark without knowing what we are stepping on and where we are headed. It is very difficult there is no doubt about it. We need light to guide our steps and show the way. Today's psalm teaches us the way to always be attuned to God's Spirit in order for us to truly see the word of God, as the light shining like a lamp for our feet. Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalm 119:29, 72, 89, 101, 104, 163
R: Your word, O Lord, is a lamp for my feet.
29 Remove from me the way of falsehood, and favor me with your law. (R) 72 The law of your mouth is to me more precious than thousands of gold and silver pieces. (R) 89 Your word, O LORD, endures forever; it is firm as the heavens. (R) 101 From every evil way I withhold my feet, that I may keep your words. (R) 104 Through your precepts I gain discernment; therefore I hate every false way. (R) 163 Falsehood I hate and abhor; your law I love.
When we were baptized we all became God's children and each of us has been given the rights and privileges of being one. We have been richly endowed and blessed. Thus we should not hesitate nor back out in fulfilling the mission that the Apostles in Jesus' time were called to do. There is no reason at all to be afraid nor feel insecure or inadequate. We have been equipped well by God's power and authority as today's gospel is telling us. If we are really up to it then all our words and actions should be congruent to the greatest mission we all ought to take. My son, Jude has recently been very active with the CFC-YFL Campus Based Ministry. He has been posting messages in his Facebook to encourage people to join their upcoming activity which is the Youth Camp. This is one way of directing and guiding the steps of the young people toward God rather than be led astray by the temptations of the world. We have to go forth, whether young or old, proclaim the good news and spread the gospel. We have the power, whoever we are, whatever we do, wherever we are and the time is now. Amen. Hallelujah!
Luke 9:1-6
1 Jesus summoned the Twelve and gave them power and authority over all demons and to cure diseases, 2 and he sent them to proclaim the kingdom of God and to heal [the sick]. 3 He said to them, “Take nothing for the journey, neither walking stick, nor sack, nor food, nor money, and let no one take a second tunic. 4 Whatever house you enter, stay there and leave from there. 5 And as for those who do not welcome you, when you leave that town, shake the dust from your feet in testimony against them.” 6 Then they set out and went from village to village proclaiming the good news and curing diseases everywhere.
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
THE CALL
We are God's children and He is calling us in the same way Paul in today's 1st reading is calling the Ephesians. This call is not exclusive and should therefore be taken by everybody as his own too. We tend to overlook, set aside and neglect this important call that we all have to respond and take action. If we look at the way most people of this world live then we can say that we are far from following this call rather we are heading towards a different path. We ought to stop living like we've forgotten and abandoned the purpose for which God created us and make a decision to heed God's call who is over all and through all and in all. Amen. Hallelujah!
Ephesians 4:1-7, 11-13
...live in a manner worthy of the call you have received, 2 with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another through love, 3 striving to preserve the unity of the spirit through the bond of peace: 4 one body and one Spirit, as you were also called to the one hope of your call; 5 one Lord, one faith, one baptism; 6 one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.
God's power and dominion can not be denied and is declared throughout the world. The wonders of all the things in this world which extends throughout the universe declare the glory of God. Who is greater than He? No one but God alone can make all these wonderful signs and miracles that are before us day and night. Let us not continue to be deaf, blind and mute to this message that goes out through all the earth. Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalm 19:2-3, 4-5
R: Their message goes out through all the earth.
1 [2] The heavens declare the glory of God, and the firmament proclaims his handiwork. 2 [3] Day pours out the word to day, and night to night imparts knowledge. (R) 3 [4] Not a word nor a discourse whose voice is not heard; 4 [5] through all the earth their voice resounds, and to the ends of the world, their message.
No one is hopeless and desperate for God. Nothing is beyond His healing love and mercy. We must not be impatient or judgmental of our brothers and sisters who have strayed from the Lord. We must keep in mind that He has a special eye for the sick and the sinners. We have all sinned and fallen ill because of the disease that sin brings to us. No matter how big and grievous our sins are, God is always able to heal us. This song which tells us, "He was pierced for our transgressions, crushed for our iniquities and the punishment that brought us peace was upon Him for by His wounds we are healed." should inspire us to reach out to Him more than anyone or anything else. Amen. Hallelujah!
Matthew 9:9-13
...“Those who are well do not need a physician, but the sick do. 13 Go and learn the meaning of the words, ‘I desire mercy, not sacrifice.’ I did not come to call the righteous but sinners.”
Ephesians 4:1-7, 11-13
...live in a manner worthy of the call you have received, 2 with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another through love, 3 striving to preserve the unity of the spirit through the bond of peace: 4 one body and one Spirit, as you were also called to the one hope of your call; 5 one Lord, one faith, one baptism; 6 one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.
God's power and dominion can not be denied and is declared throughout the world. The wonders of all the things in this world which extends throughout the universe declare the glory of God. Who is greater than He? No one but God alone can make all these wonderful signs and miracles that are before us day and night. Let us not continue to be deaf, blind and mute to this message that goes out through all the earth. Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalm 19:2-3, 4-5
R: Their message goes out through all the earth.
1 [2] The heavens declare the glory of God, and the firmament proclaims his handiwork. 2 [3] Day pours out the word to day, and night to night imparts knowledge. (R) 3 [4] Not a word nor a discourse whose voice is not heard; 4 [5] through all the earth their voice resounds, and to the ends of the world, their message.
No one is hopeless and desperate for God. Nothing is beyond His healing love and mercy. We must not be impatient or judgmental of our brothers and sisters who have strayed from the Lord. We must keep in mind that He has a special eye for the sick and the sinners. We have all sinned and fallen ill because of the disease that sin brings to us. No matter how big and grievous our sins are, God is always able to heal us. This song which tells us, "He was pierced for our transgressions, crushed for our iniquities and the punishment that brought us peace was upon Him for by His wounds we are healed." should inspire us to reach out to Him more than anyone or anything else. Amen. Hallelujah!
Matthew 9:9-13
...“Those who are well do not need a physician, but the sick do. 13 Go and learn the meaning of the words, ‘I desire mercy, not sacrifice.’ I did not come to call the righteous but sinners.”
Monday, September 20, 2010
THE SUN AND THE RAIN
What today's readings are telling us make perfect sense. It is very simple and logical. It doesn't require anyone to be well educated and learned in order to understand them. It's just a matter of yes or no and do or don't. Everything is very clearly stated and no one can ever deny its applicability in all circumstances. If we say yes to it and do what it tells us then we can expect the blessings of God flowing to us freely and openly without any hindrances. Just imagine the sun and the rain, it shines and falls on anybody without fail unless we cover ourselves to prevent it from coming to us. The same is true with God's blessings, it just keeps on coming to us. The things that are stopping it are the defenses that we put up for ourselves. It's like we want to stay away from the heat and warmth of the sun and avoid being drenched by the rain. We do not realize that allowing ourselves to bathe in the warmth of the sun and the rain drops is the best way to enjoy the goodness that they bring to us. It simply tells us one thing, we are the ones who keep on blocking or worse running away from God's blessings for He does not withhold it from us. Amen. Hallelujah!
Proverbs 3:27-34
28 [27] Refuse no one the good on which he has a claim when it is in your power to do it for him. 29 [28] Say not to your neighbor, “Go, and come again, tomorrow I will give,” when you can give at once. 30 [29] Plot no evil against your neighbor, against him who lives at peace with you. 31 [30] Quarrel not with a man without cause, with one who has done you no harm. 32 [31] Envy not the lawless man and choose none of his ways 33 [32] To the LORD the perverse man is an abomination, but with the upright is his friendship. 34 [33] The curse of the LORD is on the house of the wicked, but the dwelling of the just he blesses; 35 [34] when he is dealing with the arrogant, he is stern, but to the humble he shows kindness.
We sometimes see people who repeatedly commit the same mistakes over and over again. And yet they never learn anything from the lessons that go with it. The frightening truth about this is the fact that they prefer to be disturbed and miserable not because they love misery but because they prefer to stay in the dark. Jesus has a standing invitation to us in John 12:35, "Jesus said to them, "The light will be among you only a little while. Walk while you have the light, so that darkness may not overcome you. Whoever walks in the dark does not know where he is going." It is a choice and decision that we alone can make. Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalm 15:2-3a, 3bc-4ab, 5
R: The just one shall live on your holy mountain, O Lord.
2 He who walks blamelessly and does justice; who thinks the truth in his heart 3 and slanders not with his tongue. (R) Who harms not his fellow man, nor takes up a reproach against his neighbor; 4 by whom the reprobate is despised, while he honors those who fear the LORD. (R) 5 Who lends not his money at usury and accepts no bribe against the innocent. He who does these things shall never be disturbed.
When we do covert things and continue to pretend that everything we do is good and try to camouflage the real thing then we are just putting ourselves deeper into the pit of danger. Do we really think that we can get away from all these things without having to face its consequences? We've got to take courage and face head on the things that we have done and take responsibility for it. We may think that in doing so we are heading to our own grave. Let us not be deceived further by the threats that this world we live in present to us rather hold on to the words and promise of God. There is no need to be afraid for He is with us always. Amen. Hallelujah!
Luke 8:16-18
16 Jesus said to the crowd: “No one who lights a lamp conceals it with a vessel or sets it under a bed; rather, he places it on a lampstand so that those who enter may see the light. 17 For there is nothing hidden that will not become visible, and nothing secret that will not be known and come to light. 18 Take care, then, how you hear. To anyone who has, more will be given, and from the one who has not, even what he seems to have will be taken away.”
Proverbs 3:27-34
28 [27] Refuse no one the good on which he has a claim when it is in your power to do it for him. 29 [28] Say not to your neighbor, “Go, and come again, tomorrow I will give,” when you can give at once. 30 [29] Plot no evil against your neighbor, against him who lives at peace with you. 31 [30] Quarrel not with a man without cause, with one who has done you no harm. 32 [31] Envy not the lawless man and choose none of his ways 33 [32] To the LORD the perverse man is an abomination, but with the upright is his friendship. 34 [33] The curse of the LORD is on the house of the wicked, but the dwelling of the just he blesses; 35 [34] when he is dealing with the arrogant, he is stern, but to the humble he shows kindness.
We sometimes see people who repeatedly commit the same mistakes over and over again. And yet they never learn anything from the lessons that go with it. The frightening truth about this is the fact that they prefer to be disturbed and miserable not because they love misery but because they prefer to stay in the dark. Jesus has a standing invitation to us in John 12:35, "Jesus said to them, "The light will be among you only a little while. Walk while you have the light, so that darkness may not overcome you. Whoever walks in the dark does not know where he is going." It is a choice and decision that we alone can make. Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalm 15:2-3a, 3bc-4ab, 5
R: The just one shall live on your holy mountain, O Lord.
2 He who walks blamelessly and does justice; who thinks the truth in his heart 3 and slanders not with his tongue. (R) Who harms not his fellow man, nor takes up a reproach against his neighbor; 4 by whom the reprobate is despised, while he honors those who fear the LORD. (R) 5 Who lends not his money at usury and accepts no bribe against the innocent. He who does these things shall never be disturbed.
When we do covert things and continue to pretend that everything we do is good and try to camouflage the real thing then we are just putting ourselves deeper into the pit of danger. Do we really think that we can get away from all these things without having to face its consequences? We've got to take courage and face head on the things that we have done and take responsibility for it. We may think that in doing so we are heading to our own grave. Let us not be deceived further by the threats that this world we live in present to us rather hold on to the words and promise of God. There is no need to be afraid for He is with us always. Amen. Hallelujah!
Luke 8:16-18
16 Jesus said to the crowd: “No one who lights a lamp conceals it with a vessel or sets it under a bed; rather, he places it on a lampstand so that those who enter may see the light. 17 For there is nothing hidden that will not become visible, and nothing secret that will not be known and come to light. 18 Take care, then, how you hear. To anyone who has, more will be given, and from the one who has not, even what he seems to have will be taken away.”
Sunday, September 19, 2010
BE CONSISTENT
Amos the prophet where today's 1st reading is taken, is not just a shepherd and dresser of sycamores. He is a herdsman, rancher and a wealthy person. He lives in the garrison city a place dominated by people of power who live in luxury. He lived in affluence and belonged to the clan system which is a guild or crusade to maintain the purity of the tradition of the temple (Ark of the Covenant). He was well educated, and embraced the clan wisdom. Although he experienced a luxurious life he was also aware of the injustice and plight of the people being a sycamore dresser who worked in close contact with the people. When God called him he was already aware of both worlds. And the Lord took him from what he was doing and summoned him to prophesy to the people. If I must say he came to a point when he no longer owned the choices and decisions he made. This, I guess is given once you take upon yourself the duty of a prophet much more the will of God in our lives over our own. This reminds me of what Atty. Moya said in his talk on Family and Social Morality which really makes sense in as far as what Amos did is concerned. He mentioned that there should be no confusion between authority and power or obedience and inferiority. Amos clearly demonstrated to us obedience to God's authority over power and inferiority owing to the inappropriate situation he was in and status in life. Amos was able to differentiate the highest authority of God over the power of the priest of Bethel and his obedience which can never be taken as inferiority since he is also a man of power and wealth during his time. In the same way but definitely based in our present status in life, whoever, whatever, wherever and whenever, we are also being led to do something in response to God's call to apostleship. It should clearly be well established that our response is based on the authority of God and out of obedience. May we like Amos also get over our own personal idiosyncrasies and really get down to the real business of God. Let us not be deceived by the false misrepresentations of the world thinking that we can get away from our accountabilities or attempt to merge opposing worlds or acquire a little of both. It is either heaven or hell, God or Satan. There is no in between. For no one is above or over, exempted or excluded from the power of God. He will see to it that justice is served. Amen. Hallelujah!
Amos 8:4-7
4 Hear this, you who trample upon the needy and destroy the poor of the land!...The LORD has sworn by the pride of Jacob: Never will I forget a thing they have done!
No one can pretend to be innocent and blameless for our iniquities. We've got to set things right before we find ourselves lost in the deceptions of this world. God will never take things sitting down for He will see to it that those who call and truly follow and obey Him, the so called "poor of the Lord" those who fully depend on God's Providence will surely be lifted up and raised from the dust. Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalm 113:1-2, 4-6, 7-8
R: Praise the Lord who lifts up the poor.
...Who is like the LORD, our God, who is enthroned on high 6 and looks upon the heavens and the earth below? (R) 7 He raises up the lowly from the dust;...
Paul's knowledge of Christ though he did not see him in the flesh is a revelation not of human origin but divine. If we are to read very carefully what he wrote in this letter to Timothy, we can see that he encourages all believers to be a people of God working to acquire a quiet and tranquil life in all devotion and dignity. This as he said can never be attained through anger and argument thus we all must be careful in conducting ourselves before other men and believers as to truly reflect the values of Jesus Christ. Amen. Hallelujah!
1 Timothy 2:1-8
1 Beloved: First of all, then, I ask that supplications, prayers, petitions, and thanksgivings be offered for everyone, 2 for kings and for all in authority, that we may lead a quiet and tranquil life in all devotion and dignity. 3 This is good and pleasing to God our savior, 4 who wills everyone to be saved and to come to knowledge of the truth. 5 For there is one God. There is also one mediator between God and the human race, Christ Jesus, himself human, 6 who gave himself as ransom for all. This was the testimony at the proper time. 7 For this I was appointed preacher and apostle — I am speaking the truth, I am not lying—, teacher of the Gentiles in faith and truth. 8 It is my wish, then, that in every place the men should pray, lifting up holy hands, without anger or argument.
In today's gospel, our Lord said that the people of this world are much smarter in their dealings with each other than are the children of light. This man was a scoundrel and he was a scoundrel all the way. His god was himself and his ideal was financial security and he served self well all the way. My dear friends what one has to say about this man and the people of this world and what our Lord is trying to get over to us is that they are consistent. Are we? We say we believe in God, not some vague deity above the tower but the God of love who took us out of nothingness in love. Who came down and died for us in love. Who sustains us in love. Who has destined us for an eternity of love. Do we really believe in Him? When trouble comes, we wring our hands, we furrow our brows, we get sleepless nights and headaches. I like this little piece of doggerel, says the sparrow to the robin, “Do you really like to know what motivates those foolish mortals as they rush around and worry so? Says the robin to the sparrow, “I think that it must be they have no Heavenly Father such as cares for you and me.” In the official thanksgiving of the priest after mass every morning, there is the use of the Canticle of Daniel, when Daniel calls all creation to praise and worship God, the sun, the moon, the stars, the valleys and the hills. Then there is this line that every bird in the sky bless the Lord. Outside the window in New York where Fr. Leo Clifford lives, birds fly by very often. And sometimes one will alight in his window sill and peck the glass in the window to remind him we neither sow nor spin nor gather into barn and our Heavenly Father takes care of us. How much more will He take care of us? We say we believe in eternity but don’t we live as if time were to go on forever. One thinks of the little flower saying that there had never been more than 3 minutes in her whole life when she was not thinking of our Lord with whom she was going to spend through eternity. And then we say we believe in people that everyone of us is a child of God that we are going to be together in paradise. How do we treat people as our brothers and sisters in the Lord? Remember He told us what we do to them, we do to Him. Sometimes we don’t like others because of our sophistication, because of their background, because of their lack of education. My dear friends we say that we believe in spiritual values, that it isn’t what we have but what we are inside. But look at the way we go to the mall and spend money and buy material things. Where is our conviction? Where is our consistency? Well, my dear friends all that we can do is keep trying, begin again. And the poem, psalm that we say, after mass everyday is surely true. Oh God, You are my God. For You I long, for You alone my soul is thirsty. My body pines for You like a dry, weary land without water so I gaze on You in the sanctuary for Your love is better than life. On my bed, I remember You, on You I mused through the night for You had been my help, in the shadow of Your wings I rejoice. My soul clings to You, Your right hand holds me fast. Amen. Hallelujah!
Luke 16:1-13
1 Jesus said to his disciples, “A rich man had a steward who was reported to him for squandering his property. 2 He summoned him and said, ‘What is this I hear about you? Prepare a full account of your stewardship, because you can no longer be my steward.’ 3 The steward said to himself, ‘What shall I do, now that my master is taking the position of steward away from me? I am not strong enough to dig and I am ashamed to beg. 4 I know what I shall do so that, when I am removed from the stewardship, they may welcome me into their homes.’ 5 He called in his master’s debtors one by one. To the first he said, ‘How much do you owe my master?’ 6 He replied, ‘One hundred measures of olive oil.’ He said to him, ‘Here is your promissory note. Sit down and quickly write one for fifty.’ 7 Then to another he said, ‘And you, how much do you owe?’ He replied, ‘One hundred kors of wheat.’ He said to him, ‘Here is your promissory note; write one for eighty.’ And the master commended that dishonest steward for acting prudently. “For the children of this world are more prudent in dealing with their own generation than are the children of light.
Amos 8:4-7
4 Hear this, you who trample upon the needy and destroy the poor of the land!...The LORD has sworn by the pride of Jacob: Never will I forget a thing they have done!
No one can pretend to be innocent and blameless for our iniquities. We've got to set things right before we find ourselves lost in the deceptions of this world. God will never take things sitting down for He will see to it that those who call and truly follow and obey Him, the so called "poor of the Lord" those who fully depend on God's Providence will surely be lifted up and raised from the dust. Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalm 113:1-2, 4-6, 7-8
R: Praise the Lord who lifts up the poor.
...Who is like the LORD, our God, who is enthroned on high 6 and looks upon the heavens and the earth below? (R) 7 He raises up the lowly from the dust;...
Paul's knowledge of Christ though he did not see him in the flesh is a revelation not of human origin but divine. If we are to read very carefully what he wrote in this letter to Timothy, we can see that he encourages all believers to be a people of God working to acquire a quiet and tranquil life in all devotion and dignity. This as he said can never be attained through anger and argument thus we all must be careful in conducting ourselves before other men and believers as to truly reflect the values of Jesus Christ. Amen. Hallelujah!
1 Timothy 2:1-8
1 Beloved: First of all, then, I ask that supplications, prayers, petitions, and thanksgivings be offered for everyone, 2 for kings and for all in authority, that we may lead a quiet and tranquil life in all devotion and dignity. 3 This is good and pleasing to God our savior, 4 who wills everyone to be saved and to come to knowledge of the truth. 5 For there is one God. There is also one mediator between God and the human race, Christ Jesus, himself human, 6 who gave himself as ransom for all. This was the testimony at the proper time. 7 For this I was appointed preacher and apostle — I am speaking the truth, I am not lying—, teacher of the Gentiles in faith and truth. 8 It is my wish, then, that in every place the men should pray, lifting up holy hands, without anger or argument.
In today's gospel, our Lord said that the people of this world are much smarter in their dealings with each other than are the children of light. This man was a scoundrel and he was a scoundrel all the way. His god was himself and his ideal was financial security and he served self well all the way. My dear friends what one has to say about this man and the people of this world and what our Lord is trying to get over to us is that they are consistent. Are we? We say we believe in God, not some vague deity above the tower but the God of love who took us out of nothingness in love. Who came down and died for us in love. Who sustains us in love. Who has destined us for an eternity of love. Do we really believe in Him? When trouble comes, we wring our hands, we furrow our brows, we get sleepless nights and headaches. I like this little piece of doggerel, says the sparrow to the robin, “Do you really like to know what motivates those foolish mortals as they rush around and worry so? Says the robin to the sparrow, “I think that it must be they have no Heavenly Father such as cares for you and me.” In the official thanksgiving of the priest after mass every morning, there is the use of the Canticle of Daniel, when Daniel calls all creation to praise and worship God, the sun, the moon, the stars, the valleys and the hills. Then there is this line that every bird in the sky bless the Lord. Outside the window in New York where Fr. Leo Clifford lives, birds fly by very often. And sometimes one will alight in his window sill and peck the glass in the window to remind him we neither sow nor spin nor gather into barn and our Heavenly Father takes care of us. How much more will He take care of us? We say we believe in eternity but don’t we live as if time were to go on forever. One thinks of the little flower saying that there had never been more than 3 minutes in her whole life when she was not thinking of our Lord with whom she was going to spend through eternity. And then we say we believe in people that everyone of us is a child of God that we are going to be together in paradise. How do we treat people as our brothers and sisters in the Lord? Remember He told us what we do to them, we do to Him. Sometimes we don’t like others because of our sophistication, because of their background, because of their lack of education. My dear friends we say that we believe in spiritual values, that it isn’t what we have but what we are inside. But look at the way we go to the mall and spend money and buy material things. Where is our conviction? Where is our consistency? Well, my dear friends all that we can do is keep trying, begin again. And the poem, psalm that we say, after mass everyday is surely true. Oh God, You are my God. For You I long, for You alone my soul is thirsty. My body pines for You like a dry, weary land without water so I gaze on You in the sanctuary for Your love is better than life. On my bed, I remember You, on You I mused through the night for You had been my help, in the shadow of Your wings I rejoice. My soul clings to You, Your right hand holds me fast. Amen. Hallelujah!
Luke 16:1-13
1 Jesus said to his disciples, “A rich man had a steward who was reported to him for squandering his property. 2 He summoned him and said, ‘What is this I hear about you? Prepare a full account of your stewardship, because you can no longer be my steward.’ 3 The steward said to himself, ‘What shall I do, now that my master is taking the position of steward away from me? I am not strong enough to dig and I am ashamed to beg. 4 I know what I shall do so that, when I am removed from the stewardship, they may welcome me into their homes.’ 5 He called in his master’s debtors one by one. To the first he said, ‘How much do you owe my master?’ 6 He replied, ‘One hundred measures of olive oil.’ He said to him, ‘Here is your promissory note. Sit down and quickly write one for fifty.’ 7 Then to another he said, ‘And you, how much do you owe?’ He replied, ‘One hundred kors of wheat.’ He said to him, ‘Here is your promissory note; write one for eighty.’ And the master commended that dishonest steward for acting prudently. “For the children of this world are more prudent in dealing with their own generation than are the children of light.
Saturday, September 18, 2010
THE SPIRIT LIVES ON
These past few days we've been getting very valuable information from Paul in his letter to the Corinthians and the others. What he said in today's 1st reading makes a lot of sense and we should give credit and spend some time thinking about seriously. We are all aware of our natural body and could easily comprehend its presence through the 5 senses we got. It is our spiritual body that we have a hard time being aware of. We simply tend to neglect, overlook or worse ignore its existence. We've got to be aware of the fact that our spirit has power over our physical bodies more than we ever know. As the song goes, "a joyful heart is good medicine but a broken spirit dries up the bones". Our body grows old, weak and dies but the spirit lives on. Amen. Hallelujah!
1 Corinthians 15:35-37, 42-49
...If there is a natural body, there is also a spiritual one...Just as we have borne the image of the earthly one, we shall also bear the image of the heavenly one...
We only rely on people whom we can depend and whom we know are trustworthy. We are just setting ourselves for a disappointment if we risk trusting people whom we know can not deliver. Even if they are dependable enough there are some instances when things still do not work out the way it should. We just can't get total control and charge of everything no matter how perfect things may seem to be. This is because we have limited knowledge, capacities and resources no matter how hard we push ourselves to our maximum level. Our limitations show how imperfect we are and we can only make all things perfect and beautiful if we walk in the presence of God. Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalm 56:10c-12, 13-14
R: I will walk in the presence of God, in the light of the living.
9 [10] Now I know that God is with me. 10 [11] In God, in whose promise I glory, 11 [12] in God I trust without fear; what can flesh do against me? (R) 12 [13] I am bound, O God, by vows to you; your thank offerings I will fulfill. 13 [14] For you have rescued me from death, my feet, too, from stumbling; ...
Today's gospel may be a bit confusing at first. Jesus says, “Whoever has ears to hear ought to hear.” Then after a few statements he said,"...‘they may look but not see, and hear but not understand.’" He first asks us to hear his words and then later on say would not understand. Isn't it contradictory why would He ask us to listen if He knows we can't understand. Which of these are true, we might say or think. They are both Jesus' words and they are both true and correct. In fact both are not contradicting the other. We are all called to open our ears to God's words, there is no doubt. As to the understanding we are warned as if saying that we may not understand right away but it doesn't mean that we should stop there. Can we remember the times when we fail to grasp the meaning of the things that are happening to us at first. Only after experiencing and going through some things did we come to a better understanding. Jesus simply tells us not to give up so easily rather we should put up a good fight. We simply have to trust God and have a firm faith. No matter how confusing things may seem to be or how difficult it is for us to understand the things that are happening to us we just ought to walk on and put our best foot forward. God will not put us through something without seeing us through it. This is based on the truth and knowledge that we can always count on God 100% of the time. Amen. Hallelujah!
Luke 8:4-15
...“Whoever has ears to hear ought to hear.” 9 Then his disciples asked him what the meaning of this parable might be. 10 He answered, “Knowledge of the mysteries of the kingdom of God has been granted to you; but to the rest, they are made known through parables so that ‘they may look but not see, and hear but not understand.’...
1 Corinthians 15:35-37, 42-49
...If there is a natural body, there is also a spiritual one...Just as we have borne the image of the earthly one, we shall also bear the image of the heavenly one...
We only rely on people whom we can depend and whom we know are trustworthy. We are just setting ourselves for a disappointment if we risk trusting people whom we know can not deliver. Even if they are dependable enough there are some instances when things still do not work out the way it should. We just can't get total control and charge of everything no matter how perfect things may seem to be. This is because we have limited knowledge, capacities and resources no matter how hard we push ourselves to our maximum level. Our limitations show how imperfect we are and we can only make all things perfect and beautiful if we walk in the presence of God. Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalm 56:10c-12, 13-14
R: I will walk in the presence of God, in the light of the living.
9 [10] Now I know that God is with me. 10 [11] In God, in whose promise I glory, 11 [12] in God I trust without fear; what can flesh do against me? (R) 12 [13] I am bound, O God, by vows to you; your thank offerings I will fulfill. 13 [14] For you have rescued me from death, my feet, too, from stumbling; ...
Today's gospel may be a bit confusing at first. Jesus says, “Whoever has ears to hear ought to hear.” Then after a few statements he said,"...‘they may look but not see, and hear but not understand.’" He first asks us to hear his words and then later on say would not understand. Isn't it contradictory why would He ask us to listen if He knows we can't understand. Which of these are true, we might say or think. They are both Jesus' words and they are both true and correct. In fact both are not contradicting the other. We are all called to open our ears to God's words, there is no doubt. As to the understanding we are warned as if saying that we may not understand right away but it doesn't mean that we should stop there. Can we remember the times when we fail to grasp the meaning of the things that are happening to us at first. Only after experiencing and going through some things did we come to a better understanding. Jesus simply tells us not to give up so easily rather we should put up a good fight. We simply have to trust God and have a firm faith. No matter how confusing things may seem to be or how difficult it is for us to understand the things that are happening to us we just ought to walk on and put our best foot forward. God will not put us through something without seeing us through it. This is based on the truth and knowledge that we can always count on God 100% of the time. Amen. Hallelujah!
Luke 8:4-15
...“Whoever has ears to hear ought to hear.” 9 Then his disciples asked him what the meaning of this parable might be. 10 He answered, “Knowledge of the mysteries of the kingdom of God has been granted to you; but to the rest, they are made known through parables so that ‘they may look but not see, and hear but not understand.’...
Friday, September 17, 2010
MINIMUM TO MAXIMUM
If we truly believe in one thing then it has to mean something and has to stand up for that one thing. In today's 1st reading, Paul emphasizes the fact that Jesus was raised from the dead. If this is so then we should believe that the same thing happened for those who truly believe in Him and also for all of us who are yet to cross over to the next life after this. Paul said that the most pitiable people of all are those who have hoped in Jesus for this life alone. Our present life here on earth is nothing compared to our life in the next. We can only set our hopes in this life for a maximum of 100 years if we will be blessed by God to live that long. We are just passing by and we are headed for a much better place where God has intended for all of us to be. In this journey, our hope and faith should rest on the truth that is proclaimed by Paul in the 1st reading. We don't settle for the minimum but go for the maximum which is eternal life of bliss and happiness with God. Amen. Hallelujah!
1 Corinthians 15:12-20
...For if the dead are not raised, neither has Christ been raised, 17 and if Christ has not been raised, your faith is vain; you are still in your sins. 18 Then those who have fallen asleep in Christ have perished. 19 If for this life only we have hoped in Christ, we are the most pitiable people of all.
At this present time we can compare our life to a journey. We have been declared victorious and have conquered and overcome everything through Jesus Christ our Lord. And yet we still get distracted by the enemies who convince us otherwise. Let us march on to our victories and seize every opportunity that comes to us every day. We have to have something to overcome before we can become an overcomer, something to conquer before we become a conqueror and a test before we can have this testimony. Let us not lose heart because we are covered and protected by God like the young in the shadow of its mother's wings. Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalm 17:1bcd, 6-7, 8b, 15
R: Lord, when your glory appears, my joy will be full.
...Show your wondrous mercies, O savior of those who flee from their foes to refuge at your right hand. (R) 8 Hide me in the shadow of your wings
God does not bring us to somewhere comfortable at all times. God measures our faith by what He sees. He needs to see our faith by the kind of journey we have. Just like Jesus we have to journey from one place to another and not every place promises to be pleasant and enjoyable though, we are assured that each part of the journey is all worth it if we allow Jesus to take our hand, lead us and not just tag along. He would surely bring us to the everlasting joy and perfect happiness that no one has ever known. Amen. Hallelujah!
Luke 8:1-3
1 Jesus journeyed from one town and village to another, preaching and proclaiming the good news of the kingdom of God.
1 Corinthians 15:12-20
...For if the dead are not raised, neither has Christ been raised, 17 and if Christ has not been raised, your faith is vain; you are still in your sins. 18 Then those who have fallen asleep in Christ have perished. 19 If for this life only we have hoped in Christ, we are the most pitiable people of all.
At this present time we can compare our life to a journey. We have been declared victorious and have conquered and overcome everything through Jesus Christ our Lord. And yet we still get distracted by the enemies who convince us otherwise. Let us march on to our victories and seize every opportunity that comes to us every day. We have to have something to overcome before we can become an overcomer, something to conquer before we become a conqueror and a test before we can have this testimony. Let us not lose heart because we are covered and protected by God like the young in the shadow of its mother's wings. Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalm 17:1bcd, 6-7, 8b, 15
R: Lord, when your glory appears, my joy will be full.
...Show your wondrous mercies, O savior of those who flee from their foes to refuge at your right hand. (R) 8 Hide me in the shadow of your wings
God does not bring us to somewhere comfortable at all times. God measures our faith by what He sees. He needs to see our faith by the kind of journey we have. Just like Jesus we have to journey from one place to another and not every place promises to be pleasant and enjoyable though, we are assured that each part of the journey is all worth it if we allow Jesus to take our hand, lead us and not just tag along. He would surely bring us to the everlasting joy and perfect happiness that no one has ever known. Amen. Hallelujah!
Luke 8:1-3
1 Jesus journeyed from one town and village to another, preaching and proclaiming the good news of the kingdom of God.
Thursday, September 16, 2010
JESUS IS OUR REASON
All the readings for today point to an overwhelming truth that no matter how sinful and broken we are, God is able to do wonders for us. In today’s 1st reading Paul said that he is the least of the Apostles or not even fit to be called an apostle and yet he became what he is, all because of the tremendous grace of God. We should focus on the greatness of God’s power and never underestimate or overlook what He is able to do for us. Amen. Hallelujah!
1 Cor 15:1-11
...For I am the least of the Apostles, not fit to be called an Apostle, because I persecuted the Church of God. But by the grace of God I am what I am, and his grace to me has not been ineffective. Indeed, I have toiled harder than all of them; not I, however, but the grace of God that is with me.
We can rely on God’s goodness and build confidence on that knowing that with God on our side we are undefeated. His might knows no limits and His power is able to do wonderful things beyond our imagination. Amen. Hallelujah!
Ps 118:1b-2, 16ab-17, 28Responsorial Psalm
R. (1) Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good.
"The right hand of the LORD is exalted; the right hand of the Lord has struck with power." I shall not die, but live, and declare the works of the LORD.
Sometimes we cringe at the thought of being embarrassed and humiliated. This is just natural because some people could really be discreetly rude and mean that there is no getting away with it. This is why we have second thoughts and hesitate before we engage ourselves into doing something especially if it would unavoidably attract attention. This is a wise move actually because we have to really watch our actions so as not to cause any scandal or chaos of some sort. We all differ in how we do things. In the way of showing our affection, we all have our own ways and means in making it known to the one we love and care for. Not everybody shares the same opinion and stance on a single matter. Some may find it very good but others may just dismiss such act as nothing or worse could think of it as just a fake, a show or a lack of taste and finesse. Whatever it may be, it is our call and we have to make sure that it would be worth it. During the time of Jesus, untying a woman’s hair in public is considered scandalous. This sinful woman being spoken of today in the gospel did just that. None of these discouraging and degrading remarks that were hurled at her by the scribes, Pharisees and the people around her stopped her from doing what she did. In the same way that nothing should be in the way when we approach Jesus. We are assured that Jesus does not judge by human standards and can surely see through the depths our hearts. When we take risks or cross some lines it is always a consolation to know that it would all be worth it if we do it knowing that Jesus is our reason. Amen. Hallelujah!
Lk 7:36-50
..."Do you see this woman? When I entered your house, you did not give me water for my feet, but she has bathed them with her tears and wiped them with her hair. You did not give me a kiss, but she has not ceased kissing my feet since the time I entered. You did not anoint my head with oil, but she anointed my feet with ointment. So I tell you, her many sins have been forgiven; hence, she has shown great love. But the one to whom little is forgiven, loves little."
1 Cor 15:1-11
...For I am the least of the Apostles, not fit to be called an Apostle, because I persecuted the Church of God. But by the grace of God I am what I am, and his grace to me has not been ineffective. Indeed, I have toiled harder than all of them; not I, however, but the grace of God that is with me.
We can rely on God’s goodness and build confidence on that knowing that with God on our side we are undefeated. His might knows no limits and His power is able to do wonderful things beyond our imagination. Amen. Hallelujah!
Ps 118:1b-2, 16ab-17, 28Responsorial Psalm
R. (1) Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good.
"The right hand of the LORD is exalted; the right hand of the Lord has struck with power." I shall not die, but live, and declare the works of the LORD.
Sometimes we cringe at the thought of being embarrassed and humiliated. This is just natural because some people could really be discreetly rude and mean that there is no getting away with it. This is why we have second thoughts and hesitate before we engage ourselves into doing something especially if it would unavoidably attract attention. This is a wise move actually because we have to really watch our actions so as not to cause any scandal or chaos of some sort. We all differ in how we do things. In the way of showing our affection, we all have our own ways and means in making it known to the one we love and care for. Not everybody shares the same opinion and stance on a single matter. Some may find it very good but others may just dismiss such act as nothing or worse could think of it as just a fake, a show or a lack of taste and finesse. Whatever it may be, it is our call and we have to make sure that it would be worth it. During the time of Jesus, untying a woman’s hair in public is considered scandalous. This sinful woman being spoken of today in the gospel did just that. None of these discouraging and degrading remarks that were hurled at her by the scribes, Pharisees and the people around her stopped her from doing what she did. In the same way that nothing should be in the way when we approach Jesus. We are assured that Jesus does not judge by human standards and can surely see through the depths our hearts. When we take risks or cross some lines it is always a consolation to know that it would all be worth it if we do it knowing that Jesus is our reason. Amen. Hallelujah!
Lk 7:36-50
..."Do you see this woman? When I entered your house, you did not give me water for my feet, but she has bathed them with her tears and wiped them with her hair. You did not give me a kiss, but she has not ceased kissing my feet since the time I entered. You did not anoint my head with oil, but she anointed my feet with ointment. So I tell you, her many sins have been forgiven; hence, she has shown great love. But the one to whom little is forgiven, loves little."
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
REVERENCE & OBEDIENCE
We are in this world and still bound to our human bodies at the moment but time will come when we would have to leave everything behind. Whatsoever we did during the time when we were still in the flesh would be taken into consideration on that final day when we are confronted with the reality of death. Jesus on the day he died on the cross offered prayers, supplications with loud cries and tears and was heard. Salvation has been made available for us. We have been saved by Jesus who has fulfilled His part of the bargain. There are 2 important words in today's 1st reading, reverence and obedience, which are guidelines to help us and critical for us to fulfill our part of the bargain. Amen. Hallelujah!
Hebrews 5:7-9 (or 1 Corinthians 12:31-13:13)
7 In the days when he was in the flesh, he offered prayers and supplications with loud cries and tears to the one who was able to save him from death, and he was heard because of his reverence. 8 Son though he was, he learned obedience from what he suffered; 9 and when he was made perfect, he became the source of eternal salvation for all who obey him.
When God created this world and everything in it including us, He did not ask permission from anybody. It means that He has chosen us to be His own and not the other way around. If this is the case it is only right and fitting that we do exactly what the psalm reading tells us. Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalm 33:2-3, 4-5, 12, 22
R: Blessed the people the Lord has chosen to be his own.
2 Give thanks to the LORD on the harp; with the ten-stringed lyre chant his praises. 3 Sing to him a new song; pluck the strings skillfully, with shouts of gladness. (R) 4 For upright is the word of the LORD, and all his works are trustworthy. 5 He loves justice and right; of the kindness of the LORD the earth is full. (R) 12 Blessed the nation whose God is the LORD, the people he has chosen for his own inheritance. 22 May your kindness, O LORD, be upon us who have put our hope in you.
The passion and death of Jesus on the cross is the ultimate pain and suffering that a human being could endure. It follows that the ultimate sorrow a mother could experience is to see her very own son subjected to such an excruciatingly painful way to die. Mary stood at the foot of the cross as her heart was pierced with so much sorrow seeing her only Son, Jesus crucified. Only a heart full of faith, courage and conviction could withstand such kind of sorrow and pain. Speaking of these 2 words mentioned earlier which are reverence and conviction, Mary maintained reverence in God in that time of great sorrow and remained obedient. Such is the heart of Mary, a mother, immaculate and strong. Our Lady of Sorrows, pray for us. Amen. Hallelujah!
John 19:25-27 (or Luke 7:31-35 or Luke 2:33-35)
25 Standing by the cross of Jesus were his mother and his mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary of Magdala. 26 When Jesus saw his mother and the disciple there whom he loved, he said to his mother, “Woman, behold, your son.” 27 Then he said to the disciple, “Behold, your mother.” And from that hour the disciple took her into his home.
Hebrews 5:7-9 (or 1 Corinthians 12:31-13:13)
7 In the days when he was in the flesh, he offered prayers and supplications with loud cries and tears to the one who was able to save him from death, and he was heard because of his reverence. 8 Son though he was, he learned obedience from what he suffered; 9 and when he was made perfect, he became the source of eternal salvation for all who obey him.
When God created this world and everything in it including us, He did not ask permission from anybody. It means that He has chosen us to be His own and not the other way around. If this is the case it is only right and fitting that we do exactly what the psalm reading tells us. Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalm 33:2-3, 4-5, 12, 22
R: Blessed the people the Lord has chosen to be his own.
2 Give thanks to the LORD on the harp; with the ten-stringed lyre chant his praises. 3 Sing to him a new song; pluck the strings skillfully, with shouts of gladness. (R) 4 For upright is the word of the LORD, and all his works are trustworthy. 5 He loves justice and right; of the kindness of the LORD the earth is full. (R) 12 Blessed the nation whose God is the LORD, the people he has chosen for his own inheritance. 22 May your kindness, O LORD, be upon us who have put our hope in you.
The passion and death of Jesus on the cross is the ultimate pain and suffering that a human being could endure. It follows that the ultimate sorrow a mother could experience is to see her very own son subjected to such an excruciatingly painful way to die. Mary stood at the foot of the cross as her heart was pierced with so much sorrow seeing her only Son, Jesus crucified. Only a heart full of faith, courage and conviction could withstand such kind of sorrow and pain. Speaking of these 2 words mentioned earlier which are reverence and conviction, Mary maintained reverence in God in that time of great sorrow and remained obedient. Such is the heart of Mary, a mother, immaculate and strong. Our Lady of Sorrows, pray for us. Amen. Hallelujah!
John 19:25-27 (or Luke 7:31-35 or Luke 2:33-35)
25 Standing by the cross of Jesus were his mother and his mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary of Magdala. 26 When Jesus saw his mother and the disciple there whom he loved, he said to his mother, “Woman, behold, your son.” 27 Then he said to the disciple, “Behold, your mother.” And from that hour the disciple took her into his home.
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
POWER OF THE CROSS
If we take time to study about the bible and our faith then we will discover things we never knew existed before. We will come to a deep and profound understanding of it which will bring us to greater heights in terms of our knowledge of God. This will lead us to love and service in a very meaningful way. The bible covers a span of more or less, 2000 years. Basing it on the outline of the salvation history or covenant history which goes back to the time of Adam & Eve and Noah and dates way back to 1800 BC during the time of Abraham, Moses (1200), David (means the favored one,1000), Exodus (600) to the birth of our Lord Jesus. We can see from this time line significant events that happened from the time of Creation when God created man who fell into sin and became unfaithful and how God continuously called us back to Him by showing us who He really is throughout the length of time. It is so amazing how events which are more than a thousand year apart can be connected and how God was able to make things fall into perfect place like signs, wonders and miracles made by His mighty hand throughout the length of time. Today's 1st reading is one of the many discoveries I had or should I say getting to look at things with a new perspective. It is a foreshadowing of Jesus crucified on the Cross and its power which became a source of healing and salvation for us all. Ever since I have joined a bible study group, Apologetics class and the like I have been discovering the wealth and treasure of our Catholic faith. Thank and praise God for activities like these that continue to shed light on our faith. Amen. Hallelujah!
Numbers 21:4b-9
...LORD said to Moses, “Make a saraph and mount it on a pole, and if anyone who has been bitten looks at it, he will recover.” 9 Moses accordingly made a bronze serpent and mounted it on a pole, and whenever anyone who had been bitten by a serpent looked at the bronze serpent, he lived.
Today’s psalm tells us not to forget the works of the Lord. What better way to do that than to keep our eyes focused on the price that God paid for us on the cross and the eternal benefits it has brought upon us. In order to attain this we need to constantly listen to the teachings of the Church. We have to familiarize ourselves to the words of God in scriptures and the mysteries they hold. Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalm 78:1bc-2, 34-35, 36-37, 38
R: Do not forget the works of the Lord!
1 Hearken, my people, to my teaching; incline your ears to the words of my mouth. 2 I will open my mouth in a parable, I will utter mysteries from of old...
What hold our attention and interest range from a variety of people, places and things. We express them by engaging in various ways and means. Some are hooked in business, sports, entertainment, romance, travel, food, fashion, current events, issues with nature, outer space and all other things we can think about that we can consider profitable, enjoyable, fun and worthwhile to do. We had our moments and stages wherein we’ve been there and done that. Coming from this point of view, we eventually realize whether now, soon or later that ultimately we must acknowledge the fact that if there’s one thing that should hold not just our attention and interest but our constant admiration is the truth that is stated in today’s 2nd reading because it has definitely got it all. Amen. Hallelujah!
Philippians 2:6-11
6 Brothers and sisters: Christ Jesus, though he was in the form of God, did not regard equality with God something to be grasped. 7 Rather, he emptied himself, taking the form of a slave, coming in human likeness; and found human in appearance, 8 he humbled himself, becoming obedient to death, even death on a cross. 9 Because of this, God greatly exalted him and bestowed on him the name that is above every name, 10 that at the name of Jesus every knee should bend, of those in heaven and on earth and under the earth, 11 and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.
We are just set to discover wonderful and marvelous things that are beyond our imagination if we let God just like Nicodemus in today’s gospel. He was a skeptic before but eventually became a firm believer. It also contains the most famous words of Jesus in the Gospel of John, “For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him might not perish but might have eternal life.” The purpose of the Gospel is stated in Jn. 20:31: “These things have been written so that you may go on believing that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God and that believing you may have life in His name.” Everything comes through God’s grace in the form of the scriptures as it is written from of old and revealed right before our very eyes and within our hearing. Amen. Hallelujah!
John 3:13-17
13 Jesus said to Nicodemus: “No one has gone up to heaven except the one who has come down from heaven, the Son of Man. 14 And just as Moses lifted up the serpent in the desert, so must the Son of Man be lifted up, 15 so that everyone who believes in him may have eternal life.” 16 For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him might not perish but might have eternal life. 17 For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world might be saved through him.
Numbers 21:4b-9
...LORD said to Moses, “Make a saraph and mount it on a pole, and if anyone who has been bitten looks at it, he will recover.” 9 Moses accordingly made a bronze serpent and mounted it on a pole, and whenever anyone who had been bitten by a serpent looked at the bronze serpent, he lived.
Today’s psalm tells us not to forget the works of the Lord. What better way to do that than to keep our eyes focused on the price that God paid for us on the cross and the eternal benefits it has brought upon us. In order to attain this we need to constantly listen to the teachings of the Church. We have to familiarize ourselves to the words of God in scriptures and the mysteries they hold. Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalm 78:1bc-2, 34-35, 36-37, 38
R: Do not forget the works of the Lord!
1 Hearken, my people, to my teaching; incline your ears to the words of my mouth. 2 I will open my mouth in a parable, I will utter mysteries from of old...
What hold our attention and interest range from a variety of people, places and things. We express them by engaging in various ways and means. Some are hooked in business, sports, entertainment, romance, travel, food, fashion, current events, issues with nature, outer space and all other things we can think about that we can consider profitable, enjoyable, fun and worthwhile to do. We had our moments and stages wherein we’ve been there and done that. Coming from this point of view, we eventually realize whether now, soon or later that ultimately we must acknowledge the fact that if there’s one thing that should hold not just our attention and interest but our constant admiration is the truth that is stated in today’s 2nd reading because it has definitely got it all. Amen. Hallelujah!
Philippians 2:6-11
6 Brothers and sisters: Christ Jesus, though he was in the form of God, did not regard equality with God something to be grasped. 7 Rather, he emptied himself, taking the form of a slave, coming in human likeness; and found human in appearance, 8 he humbled himself, becoming obedient to death, even death on a cross. 9 Because of this, God greatly exalted him and bestowed on him the name that is above every name, 10 that at the name of Jesus every knee should bend, of those in heaven and on earth and under the earth, 11 and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.
We are just set to discover wonderful and marvelous things that are beyond our imagination if we let God just like Nicodemus in today’s gospel. He was a skeptic before but eventually became a firm believer. It also contains the most famous words of Jesus in the Gospel of John, “For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him might not perish but might have eternal life.” The purpose of the Gospel is stated in Jn. 20:31: “These things have been written so that you may go on believing that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God and that believing you may have life in His name.” Everything comes through God’s grace in the form of the scriptures as it is written from of old and revealed right before our very eyes and within our hearing. Amen. Hallelujah!
John 3:13-17
13 Jesus said to Nicodemus: “No one has gone up to heaven except the one who has come down from heaven, the Son of Man. 14 And just as Moses lifted up the serpent in the desert, so must the Son of Man be lifted up, 15 so that everyone who believes in him may have eternal life.” 16 For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him might not perish but might have eternal life. 17 For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world might be saved through him.
Monday, September 13, 2010
BACKBONE & MITOCHONDRIA
What Paul in today's 1st reading is telling us is a problem in some prayer group communities. We have to be very careful of how we relate to our fellow brothers and sisters in Christ. Our actions should work for the good of the community rather than cause divisions and factions among believers. Speaking of this suddenly reminds me of these 2 people whom I received an e mail from yesterday and this morning. It was unexpected because I haven't seen and heard from both of them for quite a long time already. Though, it felt good to hear from them. Despite the fact that these communications were not long and elaborate and was just a brief exchange of information, I am sure that it has fostered unity and solidarity in our relationships no matter how little it may seem. A very timely correspondence which is very much in line with what the 1st reading today calls us to do. Amen. Hallelujah!
1 Corinthians 11:17-26, 33
17 Brothers and sisters: In giving this instruction, I do not praise the fact that your meetings are doing more harm than good. 18 First of all, I hear that when you meet as a church there are divisions among you, and to a degree I believe it; 19 there have to be factions among you...
Nothing should stand in the way to doing God's will. It may not be easy but if we have placed it in the center of our hearts then it will just come naturally as it becomes the powerhouse or mitochondria of our beings. Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalm 40:7-8a, 8b-9, 10, 17
R: Proclaim the death of the Lord until he comes again.
...to do your will, O my God, is my delight, and your law is within my heart!” (R) 9 [10] I announced your justice in the vast assembly; I did not restrain my lips, as you, O LORD, know.
As Catholics, we are all familiar of these words from today's gospel because it has become a very important part of the Liturgy of the Eucharist. What's interesting here is that not everybody, I guess is fully aware of the fact that these are the very words of a centurion. The following statements are information that I have found in the internet about them. It says, "The backbone of the Roman army were the centurions. The centurions were legionaries and they were clearly noticed because they wore a special helmet, and a more ornate harness of much better quality. They carried a short vinewood staff as a symbol of rank. They worked their way up the ranks as soldiers, and were promoted for their dedication and courage. They were loyal and courageous and were noticed by the general for their skill and courage in battle, and were made officers." -end- I guess, we can learn a lot from the good example of this centurion in today's gospel. What catches my attention this time is the fact that I have mentioned earlier about the powerhouse or mitochondria, it makes perfect sense that it matches in a way the description for the centurion which is the backbone. Come to think of it, these are important cell and body parts that are vital to our existence. Applying these to our faith, there is no doubt that it illustrates to us the need for these vital components for the life of our souls. Amen. Hallelujah!
Luke 7:1-10
...“Lord, do not trouble yourself, for I am not worthy to have you enter under my roof. 7 Therefore, I did not consider myself worthy to come to you; but say the word and let my servant be healed. 8 For I too am a person subject to authority, with soldiers subject to me. And I say to one, ‘Go,’ and he goes; and to another, ‘Come here,’ and he comes; and to my slave, ‘Do this,’ and he does it.” 9 When Jesus heard this he was amazed at him and, turning, said to the crowd following him, “I tell you, not even in Israel have I found such faith.”...
1 Corinthians 11:17-26, 33
17 Brothers and sisters: In giving this instruction, I do not praise the fact that your meetings are doing more harm than good. 18 First of all, I hear that when you meet as a church there are divisions among you, and to a degree I believe it; 19 there have to be factions among you...
Nothing should stand in the way to doing God's will. It may not be easy but if we have placed it in the center of our hearts then it will just come naturally as it becomes the powerhouse or mitochondria of our beings. Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalm 40:7-8a, 8b-9, 10, 17
R: Proclaim the death of the Lord until he comes again.
...to do your will, O my God, is my delight, and your law is within my heart!” (R) 9 [10] I announced your justice in the vast assembly; I did not restrain my lips, as you, O LORD, know.
As Catholics, we are all familiar of these words from today's gospel because it has become a very important part of the Liturgy of the Eucharist. What's interesting here is that not everybody, I guess is fully aware of the fact that these are the very words of a centurion. The following statements are information that I have found in the internet about them. It says, "The backbone of the Roman army were the centurions. The centurions were legionaries and they were clearly noticed because they wore a special helmet, and a more ornate harness of much better quality. They carried a short vinewood staff as a symbol of rank. They worked their way up the ranks as soldiers, and were promoted for their dedication and courage. They were loyal and courageous and were noticed by the general for their skill and courage in battle, and were made officers." -end- I guess, we can learn a lot from the good example of this centurion in today's gospel. What catches my attention this time is the fact that I have mentioned earlier about the powerhouse or mitochondria, it makes perfect sense that it matches in a way the description for the centurion which is the backbone. Come to think of it, these are important cell and body parts that are vital to our existence. Applying these to our faith, there is no doubt that it illustrates to us the need for these vital components for the life of our souls. Amen. Hallelujah!
Luke 7:1-10
...“Lord, do not trouble yourself, for I am not worthy to have you enter under my roof. 7 Therefore, I did not consider myself worthy to come to you; but say the word and let my servant be healed. 8 For I too am a person subject to authority, with soldiers subject to me. And I say to one, ‘Go,’ and he goes; and to another, ‘Come here,’ and he comes; and to my slave, ‘Do this,’ and he does it.” 9 When Jesus heard this he was amazed at him and, turning, said to the crowd following him, “I tell you, not even in Israel have I found such faith.”...
Sunday, September 12, 2010
NOT JUST 1 BUT 3
The priest said in his homily that God is unchangeable and remains Holy, Mighty and Immortal. We might misunderstand these words in today's 1st reading when it said, "the Lord relented..." We must keep in mind that it is not God who changes but ourselves who change in the process. God is the constant we are the variable. What God has ordained He will forever sustain and it is up to us, to accept and respond to the challenge. One thing is sure, His grace is always enough. Amen. Hallelujah!
Exodus 32:7-11, 13-14
...the LORD relented in the punishment he had threatened to inflict on his people.
God our Father will never turn His back on us. Let us get this straight, it is the sin that God hates and not the sinner. If we are in sin then that's the time we drive away God's Holy Spirit dwelling in us for it is impossible for God's presence to exist with sin. It's our call then to respond to the psalm's invitation to rise and go to God or remain slumped in the mud of sin. Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalm 51:3-4, 12-13, 17, 19
R: I will rise and go to my father.
1 [3] Have mercy on me, O God, in your goodness; in the greatness of your compassion wipe out my offense. 2 [4] Thoroughly wash me from my guilt and of my sin cleanse me. (R) 10 [12] A clean heart create for me, O God, and a steadfast spirit renew within me. 11 [13] Cast me not out from your presence, and your Holy Spirit take not from me.
Is there anything more that God could have done for us that He has not done? After accepting freely, the most humiliating death on the cross more than 2000 years ago, this act of love has not lost its effect and continues to benefit us in the most amazing and unfathomable way. If only we fully accept what Paul is telling us in today's 2nd reading then we are all saved. Amen. Hallelujah!
1 Timothy 1:12-17
...Indeed, the grace of our Lord has been abundant, along with the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus. 15 This saying is trustworthy and deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners...To the king of ages, incorruptible, invisible, the only God, honor and glory forever and ever. Amen.
We will never ever come to the full realization of this great and immense love that God has for us until the time we come into perfect union with God in heaven. For that to happen we have to die first, leave our human bodies and depart from earth. For the mean time God is trying to get this across to us in a variety of ways that we can relate to, as the things that we are familiar of here on earth. Today's gospel, Jesus cited not just 1 but 3 parables like the love of the Holy Trinity, just to get His message across. Amen. Hallelujah!
Luke 15:1-32
...So to them he addressed this parable. 4 “What man among you having a hundred sheep and losing one of them would not leave the ninety-nine in the desert and go after the lost one until he finds it? 5 And when he does find it, he sets it on his shoulders with great joy 6 and, upon his arrival home, he calls together his friends and neighbors and says to them, ‘Rejoice with me because I have found my lost sheep.’ 7 I tell you, in just the same way there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous people who have no need of repentance. 8 “Or what woman having ten coins and losing one would not light a lamp and sweep the house, searching carefully until she finds it? 9 And when she does find it, she calls together her friends and neighbors and says to them, ‘Rejoice with me because I have found the coin that I lost.’ 10 In just the same way, I tell you, there will be rejoicing among the angels of God over one sinner who repents.” 11 Then he said, “A man had two sons, 12 and the younger son said to his father, ‘Father, give me the share of your estate that should come to me.’ So the father divided the property between them. 13 After a few days, the younger son collected all his belongings and set off to a distant country where he squandered his inheritance on a life of dissipation. 14 When he had freely spent everything, a severe famine struck that country, and he found himself in dire need. 15 So he hired himself out to one of the local citizens who sent him to his farm to tend the swine. 16 And he longed to eat his fill of the pods on which the swine fed, but nobody gave him any. 17 Coming to his senses he thought, “How many of my father’s hired workers have more than enough food to eat, but here am I, dying from hunger. 18 I shall get up and go to my father and I shall say to him, “Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you. 19 I no longer deserve to be called your son; treat me as you would treat one of your hired workers.” ’ 20 So he got up and went back to his father. While he was still a long way off, his father caught sight of him, and was filled with compassion. He ran to his son, embraced him and kissed him. 21 His son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you; I no longer deserve to be called your son.’ 22 But his father ordered his servants, ‘Quickly bring the finest robe and put it on him; put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet. 23 Take the fattened calf and slaughter it. Then let us celebrate with a feast, 24 because this son of mine was dead, and has come to life again; he was lost, and has been found.’ Then the celebration began. 25 Now the older son had been out in the field and, on his way back, as he neared the house, he heard the sound of music and dancing. 26 He called one of the servants and asked what this might mean. 27 The servant said to him, ‘Your brother has returned and your father has slaughtered the fattened calf because he has him back safe and sound.’ 28 He became angry, and when he refused to enter the house, his father came out and pleaded with him. 29 He said to his father in reply, ‘Look, all these years I served you and not once did I disobey your orders; yet you never gave me even a young goat to feast on with my friends. 30 But when your son returns who swallowed up your property with prostitutes, for him you slaughter the fattened calf.’ 31 He said to him, ‘My son, you are here with me always; everything I have is yours. 32 But now we must celebrate and rejoice, because your brother was dead and has come to life again; he was lost and has been found.’ ”
Exodus 32:7-11, 13-14
...the LORD relented in the punishment he had threatened to inflict on his people.
God our Father will never turn His back on us. Let us get this straight, it is the sin that God hates and not the sinner. If we are in sin then that's the time we drive away God's Holy Spirit dwelling in us for it is impossible for God's presence to exist with sin. It's our call then to respond to the psalm's invitation to rise and go to God or remain slumped in the mud of sin. Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalm 51:3-4, 12-13, 17, 19
R: I will rise and go to my father.
1 [3] Have mercy on me, O God, in your goodness; in the greatness of your compassion wipe out my offense. 2 [4] Thoroughly wash me from my guilt and of my sin cleanse me. (R) 10 [12] A clean heart create for me, O God, and a steadfast spirit renew within me. 11 [13] Cast me not out from your presence, and your Holy Spirit take not from me.
Is there anything more that God could have done for us that He has not done? After accepting freely, the most humiliating death on the cross more than 2000 years ago, this act of love has not lost its effect and continues to benefit us in the most amazing and unfathomable way. If only we fully accept what Paul is telling us in today's 2nd reading then we are all saved. Amen. Hallelujah!
1 Timothy 1:12-17
...Indeed, the grace of our Lord has been abundant, along with the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus. 15 This saying is trustworthy and deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners...To the king of ages, incorruptible, invisible, the only God, honor and glory forever and ever. Amen.
We will never ever come to the full realization of this great and immense love that God has for us until the time we come into perfect union with God in heaven. For that to happen we have to die first, leave our human bodies and depart from earth. For the mean time God is trying to get this across to us in a variety of ways that we can relate to, as the things that we are familiar of here on earth. Today's gospel, Jesus cited not just 1 but 3 parables like the love of the Holy Trinity, just to get His message across. Amen. Hallelujah!
Luke 15:1-32
...So to them he addressed this parable. 4 “What man among you having a hundred sheep and losing one of them would not leave the ninety-nine in the desert and go after the lost one until he finds it? 5 And when he does find it, he sets it on his shoulders with great joy 6 and, upon his arrival home, he calls together his friends and neighbors and says to them, ‘Rejoice with me because I have found my lost sheep.’ 7 I tell you, in just the same way there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous people who have no need of repentance. 8 “Or what woman having ten coins and losing one would not light a lamp and sweep the house, searching carefully until she finds it? 9 And when she does find it, she calls together her friends and neighbors and says to them, ‘Rejoice with me because I have found the coin that I lost.’ 10 In just the same way, I tell you, there will be rejoicing among the angels of God over one sinner who repents.” 11 Then he said, “A man had two sons, 12 and the younger son said to his father, ‘Father, give me the share of your estate that should come to me.’ So the father divided the property between them. 13 After a few days, the younger son collected all his belongings and set off to a distant country where he squandered his inheritance on a life of dissipation. 14 When he had freely spent everything, a severe famine struck that country, and he found himself in dire need. 15 So he hired himself out to one of the local citizens who sent him to his farm to tend the swine. 16 And he longed to eat his fill of the pods on which the swine fed, but nobody gave him any. 17 Coming to his senses he thought, “How many of my father’s hired workers have more than enough food to eat, but here am I, dying from hunger. 18 I shall get up and go to my father and I shall say to him, “Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you. 19 I no longer deserve to be called your son; treat me as you would treat one of your hired workers.” ’ 20 So he got up and went back to his father. While he was still a long way off, his father caught sight of him, and was filled with compassion. He ran to his son, embraced him and kissed him. 21 His son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you; I no longer deserve to be called your son.’ 22 But his father ordered his servants, ‘Quickly bring the finest robe and put it on him; put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet. 23 Take the fattened calf and slaughter it. Then let us celebrate with a feast, 24 because this son of mine was dead, and has come to life again; he was lost, and has been found.’ Then the celebration began. 25 Now the older son had been out in the field and, on his way back, as he neared the house, he heard the sound of music and dancing. 26 He called one of the servants and asked what this might mean. 27 The servant said to him, ‘Your brother has returned and your father has slaughtered the fattened calf because he has him back safe and sound.’ 28 He became angry, and when he refused to enter the house, his father came out and pleaded with him. 29 He said to his father in reply, ‘Look, all these years I served you and not once did I disobey your orders; yet you never gave me even a young goat to feast on with my friends. 30 But when your son returns who swallowed up your property with prostitutes, for him you slaughter the fattened calf.’ 31 He said to him, ‘My son, you are here with me always; everything I have is yours. 32 But now we must celebrate and rejoice, because your brother was dead and has come to life again; he was lost and has been found.’ ”
Saturday, September 11, 2010
HOUSE ON ROCK
We must consider everything that we do as an offering to God just like bread and wine. We offer to the Lord the work of our hands and consider it a communion and participation in the Body & Blood of Christ. We go through life without realizing this truth in today's 1st reading. We end up missing the whole point and not reaping the benefits that we are supposed to get from it. The key lies in lifting up all that we go through, whether it's good or bad to the Lord with joyful hope in prayer. Amen. Hallelujah!
1 Cor 10:14-22
...The cup of blessing that we bless, is it not a participation in the Blood of Christ? The bread that we break, is it not a participation in the Body of Christ?
It is only right and fitting that we honor our vows and promises as today’s psalm is telling us. This shows how grateful, confident and assured we are of the Lord’s goodness. Amen. Hallelujah!
Ps 116:12-13, 17-18Responsorial Psalm
R. (17) To you, Lord, I will offer a sacrifice of praise.
How shall I make a return to the LORD for all the good he has done for me? ...My vows to the LORD I will pay in the presence of all his people.
Once again I am reminded of my mother because of this bible passage in today’s gospel. When she first came to the US and visited several wonderful places she told me that the best place she had been to is Texas because of this particular place called House on Rock. There are lots of beautiful and spectacular places that are very famous in the US and I don’t think this House on Rock rings a bell. I have asked a few people and they have never heard of it. Knowing my mother, I just know and feel that this particular place that she considered most beautiful is mostly based on the fact that it is a reminder of this bible passage from today’s gospel which happens to be one of her favorites too. Amen. Hallelujah!
Lk 6:43-49Gospel
...I will show you what someone is like who comes to me, listens to my words, and acts on them. That one is like a man building a house, who dug deeply and laid the foundation on rock; when the flood came, the river burst against that house but could not shake it because it had been well built.
1 Cor 10:14-22
...The cup of blessing that we bless, is it not a participation in the Blood of Christ? The bread that we break, is it not a participation in the Body of Christ?
It is only right and fitting that we honor our vows and promises as today’s psalm is telling us. This shows how grateful, confident and assured we are of the Lord’s goodness. Amen. Hallelujah!
Ps 116:12-13, 17-18Responsorial Psalm
R. (17) To you, Lord, I will offer a sacrifice of praise.
How shall I make a return to the LORD for all the good he has done for me? ...My vows to the LORD I will pay in the presence of all his people.
Once again I am reminded of my mother because of this bible passage in today’s gospel. When she first came to the US and visited several wonderful places she told me that the best place she had been to is Texas because of this particular place called House on Rock. There are lots of beautiful and spectacular places that are very famous in the US and I don’t think this House on Rock rings a bell. I have asked a few people and they have never heard of it. Knowing my mother, I just know and feel that this particular place that she considered most beautiful is mostly based on the fact that it is a reminder of this bible passage from today’s gospel which happens to be one of her favorites too. Amen. Hallelujah!
Lk 6:43-49Gospel
...I will show you what someone is like who comes to me, listens to my words, and acts on them. That one is like a man building a house, who dug deeply and laid the foundation on rock; when the flood came, the river burst against that house but could not shake it because it had been well built.
Friday, September 10, 2010
3 IN A ROW
Paul in his letter to the Corinthians from today's 1st reading reminds us to set our goals and priorities right. We may be living our lives without knowing what we are primarily created for. The purpose of man's existence is very clear in the Baltimore Catechism. There are 3 things we ought to do as we answer this question. Why did God make you? Number 1, God made me to know Him, 2 to love Him, and 3 to serve Him in this world, so we could be happy with Him for ever in heaven. "In him we live and move and have our being." (Acts 17:28) We are all aware of the wonderful feeling of being chosen and qualified and the other way around. Let us get these 3 things, straight in our minds so as to be happy and not find ourselves disqualified in our final day here on earth. Amen. Hallelujah!
1 Corinthians 9:16-19, 22b-27
...If I preach the gospel, this is no reason for me to boast...I have become all things to all, to save at least some. 23 All this I do for the sake of the gospel, so that I too may have a share in it. 24 Do you not know that the runners in the stadium all run in the race, but only one wins the prize? Run so as to win. 25 Every athlete exercises discipline in every way. They do it to win a perishable crown, but we an imperishable one. 26 Thus I do not run aimlessly; I do not fight as if I were shadowboxing. 27 No, I drive my body and train it, for fear that, after having preached to others, I myself should be disqualified.
Just when I thought that the inspiration from the mother bird that I have been sharing in my reflections these past 2 days is over comes this passage about the sparrow and swallow in today's psalm which makes it 3 in a row. How simply amazing, that it speaks of the exact scenario in the aviary. It's like some kind of confirmation for the 3 things we ought to do as from the Baltimore Catechism that I have shared today. Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalm 84:3, 4, 5-6, 12
R: How lovely is your dwelling place, Lord, mighty God!
...Even the sparrow finds a home, and the swallow a nest in which she puts her young — your altars, O LORD of hosts, my king and my God! (R) 4 [5] Blessed they who dwell in your house! continually they praise you. 5 [6] Blessed the men whose strength you are! their hearts are set upon the pilgrimage. (R) 11 [12] For a sun and a shield is the LORD God; grace and glory he bestows; the LORD withholds no good thing from those who walk in sincerity.
Today's gospel being the 3rd reading for today also encourages us to do these 3 basic things from the Baltimore Catechism. It is in growing in the knowledge of God that we come to love and serve Him. Having read them all, the 1st, psalm and gospel readings for today, there's one thing very sure about it today, to respond and take action to it since it is indeed the purpose of our existence. It is in doing so that we become a living example of a true disciple of Jesus. Amen. Hallelujah!
Luke 6:39-42
39 Jesus told his disciples a parable: “Can a blind person guide a blind person? Will not both fall into a pit? 40 No disciple is superior to the teacher; but when fully trained, every disciple will be like his teacher...
1 Corinthians 9:16-19, 22b-27
...If I preach the gospel, this is no reason for me to boast...I have become all things to all, to save at least some. 23 All this I do for the sake of the gospel, so that I too may have a share in it. 24 Do you not know that the runners in the stadium all run in the race, but only one wins the prize? Run so as to win. 25 Every athlete exercises discipline in every way. They do it to win a perishable crown, but we an imperishable one. 26 Thus I do not run aimlessly; I do not fight as if I were shadowboxing. 27 No, I drive my body and train it, for fear that, after having preached to others, I myself should be disqualified.
Just when I thought that the inspiration from the mother bird that I have been sharing in my reflections these past 2 days is over comes this passage about the sparrow and swallow in today's psalm which makes it 3 in a row. How simply amazing, that it speaks of the exact scenario in the aviary. It's like some kind of confirmation for the 3 things we ought to do as from the Baltimore Catechism that I have shared today. Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalm 84:3, 4, 5-6, 12
R: How lovely is your dwelling place, Lord, mighty God!
...Even the sparrow finds a home, and the swallow a nest in which she puts her young — your altars, O LORD of hosts, my king and my God! (R) 4 [5] Blessed they who dwell in your house! continually they praise you. 5 [6] Blessed the men whose strength you are! their hearts are set upon the pilgrimage. (R) 11 [12] For a sun and a shield is the LORD God; grace and glory he bestows; the LORD withholds no good thing from those who walk in sincerity.
Today's gospel being the 3rd reading for today also encourages us to do these 3 basic things from the Baltimore Catechism. It is in growing in the knowledge of God that we come to love and serve Him. Having read them all, the 1st, psalm and gospel readings for today, there's one thing very sure about it today, to respond and take action to it since it is indeed the purpose of our existence. It is in doing so that we become a living example of a true disciple of Jesus. Amen. Hallelujah!
Luke 6:39-42
39 Jesus told his disciples a parable: “Can a blind person guide a blind person? Will not both fall into a pit? 40 No disciple is superior to the teacher; but when fully trained, every disciple will be like his teacher...
Thursday, September 9, 2010
A MOTHER'S LOVE II
I just couldn't contain my amazement with what happened the other day as I was looking at the birds in the aviary. It was very timely too that the inspiration I got from it is perfectly fitted for the occasion of Mama Mary's birthday and the assigned readings yesterday. I shared about this mother bird that never leaves her nest not even for a single moment in my reflection yesterday. I find it very interesting that in the several times I have been watching it, I have never seen it anywhere else but perched in the nest. This is why I can hardly see her young just its little head when it pokes out of the nest. I looked intently at the mother bird and told her as if it would understand me, to show me her baby bird. To my disbelief the mother bird as if it understood me flew a small distance away from the nest and exposed her young. It was not just one but 2 baby birds. This incident made me remember this article I read in the August 2010 issue of Reader's Digest entitled, "Amazing Pets" It was about the different kinds of pets that people have, showcasing their extraordinary abilities and most especially the bond and relationship they have developed with their masters. This kind of thing is not new anymore wherein we encounter this special connection between man and the other living creatures of this world. This should not surprise us anymore for today's 1st reading gives us the best explanation there is. Amen. Hallelujah!
1 Corinthians 8:1b-7, 11-13
...there is one God, the Father, from whom all things are and for whom we exist, and one Lord, Jesus Christ, through whom all things are and through whom we exist.
We should always be aware of this undeniable truth that God's Spirit dwells in each one of us. There is no reason to doubt what today's psalm speaks about with regards to our relationship with our Creator. We are all part of God's wonderful creation, all we have to do is be sensitive and respond to it as naturally as any other creature should to its fellow creatures and most especially to the One and Almighty God and Creator who made us all. Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalm 139:1b-3, 13-14ab, 23-24
R: Guide me, Lord, along the everlasting way.
1 O LORD, you have probed me and you know me; 2 you know when I sit and when I stand; you understand my thoughts from afar. 3 My journeys and my rest you scrutinize, with all my ways you are familiar. (R) 13 Truly you have formed my inmost being; you knit me in my mother’s womb. 14 I give you thanks that I am fearfully, wonderfully made; wonderful are your works.
My mother was widowed at a very young age of 32 and left with our care when we were still very young, aged 4, 3 and 1. She never remarried and just devoted her life to us. She was not just our mother but stood as our father at the same time. She worked hard in order to provide for all our needs. As far as I can remember, we were never in want at any single time. My mother would always attribute this to God our Provider. She often said that widows and orphans are very special to the Lord. I have been sharing so much about this mother bird since yesterday and this passage from today's gospel inspired me to share about my own mother. I could never forget it because this passage is one of her favorites since I grew up always hearing her quote this. Amen. Hallelujah!
Luke 6:27-38
...Give and gifts will be given to you; a good measure, packed together, shaken down, and overflowing, will be poured into your lap. For the measure with which you measure will in return be measured out to you.”
1 Corinthians 8:1b-7, 11-13
...there is one God, the Father, from whom all things are and for whom we exist, and one Lord, Jesus Christ, through whom all things are and through whom we exist.
We should always be aware of this undeniable truth that God's Spirit dwells in each one of us. There is no reason to doubt what today's psalm speaks about with regards to our relationship with our Creator. We are all part of God's wonderful creation, all we have to do is be sensitive and respond to it as naturally as any other creature should to its fellow creatures and most especially to the One and Almighty God and Creator who made us all. Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalm 139:1b-3, 13-14ab, 23-24
R: Guide me, Lord, along the everlasting way.
1 O LORD, you have probed me and you know me; 2 you know when I sit and when I stand; you understand my thoughts from afar. 3 My journeys and my rest you scrutinize, with all my ways you are familiar. (R) 13 Truly you have formed my inmost being; you knit me in my mother’s womb. 14 I give you thanks that I am fearfully, wonderfully made; wonderful are your works.
My mother was widowed at a very young age of 32 and left with our care when we were still very young, aged 4, 3 and 1. She never remarried and just devoted her life to us. She was not just our mother but stood as our father at the same time. She worked hard in order to provide for all our needs. As far as I can remember, we were never in want at any single time. My mother would always attribute this to God our Provider. She often said that widows and orphans are very special to the Lord. I have been sharing so much about this mother bird since yesterday and this passage from today's gospel inspired me to share about my own mother. I could never forget it because this passage is one of her favorites since I grew up always hearing her quote this. Amen. Hallelujah!
Luke 6:27-38
...Give and gifts will be given to you; a good measure, packed together, shaken down, and overflowing, will be poured into your lap. For the measure with which you measure will in return be measured out to you.”
Wednesday, September 8, 2010
A MOTHER'S LOVE
It is so inspiring that prior to this day I had the chance to see an aviary wherein there are 10 beautiful birds in it. I noticed one bird since the 1st day I saw it who never left her nest. I wondered why it is so while the other birds are flying all over the place. Yesterday I found out why. When I looked, I saw her feeding a newborn baby bird in the nest. It was such a sight since it is my first time to actually see live, a mother bird feeding her young. I never realized that they could be so protective and affectionate to their young. Everybody who saw it stopped and just enjoyed such a moving display of a mother’s love. It became even more touching when the father bird huddled close to the mother bird as in a protective embrace. I couldn't contain my amazement that I had to run and get my camera and took a picture of them. It was such a picture of one happy family. It is a consolation to know that we have a good mother who cares and loves us more than any mother could do. This is no other than our
Blessed Mother Mary whose birthday we are celebrating today. Everything that has been foretold about Jesus was fulfilled. It is through Mary's cooperation and obedience to God that it all came to be. On this special day, the birthday of Mary, the mother of Jesus our God and also our mother we come to her as her children longing to be in her tight embrace and be part of that one big blessed family of God. Amen. Hallelujah!
Micah 5:1-4a (or Romans 8:28-30)
...she who is to give birth has borne, and the rest of his brethren shall return...
Just think of this, if a bird is capable of such a noble and admirable act of love toward her young, how much more us, humans. To top it all we are assured of the love and care of the most perfect human mother who ever lived on earth. Praise and thank God for His goodness in sharing to mankind His mother, Mary, a heavenly mother. Amen. Halllelujah!
Psalm 13:6ab, 6c
R: With delight I rejoice in the Lord.
5 [6] Though I trusted in your mercy. Let my heart rejoice in your salvation. (R) Let me sing of the LORD, “He has been good to me.”
In today's gospel we are reminded of this wonderful story of the holiest family who ever lived on earth. What's most important is that we should be aware that we are part of that touching, inspiring and full of affection family that God has given us. The awe and wonder of this truth should never leave us and carry it always in our hearts and minds for it is written, "God is with us." Amen. Hallelujah!
Matthew 1:1-16, 18-23
...Now this is how the birth of Jesus Christ came about. When his mother Mary was betrothed to Joseph, but before they lived together, she was found with child through the Holy Spirit. 19 Joseph her husband, since he was a righteous man, yet unwilling to expose her to shame, decided to divorce her quietly. 20 Such was his intention when, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary your wife into your home. For it is through the Holy Spirit that this child has been conceived in her. 21 She will bear a son and you are to name him Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.” 22 All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: 23 “Behold, the virgin shall be with child and bear a son, and they shall name him Emmanuel,” which means “God is with us.”
Blessed Mother Mary whose birthday we are celebrating today. Everything that has been foretold about Jesus was fulfilled. It is through Mary's cooperation and obedience to God that it all came to be. On this special day, the birthday of Mary, the mother of Jesus our God and also our mother we come to her as her children longing to be in her tight embrace and be part of that one big blessed family of God. Amen. Hallelujah!
Micah 5:1-4a (or Romans 8:28-30)
...she who is to give birth has borne, and the rest of his brethren shall return...
Just think of this, if a bird is capable of such a noble and admirable act of love toward her young, how much more us, humans. To top it all we are assured of the love and care of the most perfect human mother who ever lived on earth. Praise and thank God for His goodness in sharing to mankind His mother, Mary, a heavenly mother. Amen. Halllelujah!
Psalm 13:6ab, 6c
R: With delight I rejoice in the Lord.
5 [6] Though I trusted in your mercy. Let my heart rejoice in your salvation. (R) Let me sing of the LORD, “He has been good to me.”
In today's gospel we are reminded of this wonderful story of the holiest family who ever lived on earth. What's most important is that we should be aware that we are part of that touching, inspiring and full of affection family that God has given us. The awe and wonder of this truth should never leave us and carry it always in our hearts and minds for it is written, "God is with us." Amen. Hallelujah!
Matthew 1:1-16, 18-23
...Now this is how the birth of Jesus Christ came about. When his mother Mary was betrothed to Joseph, but before they lived together, she was found with child through the Holy Spirit. 19 Joseph her husband, since he was a righteous man, yet unwilling to expose her to shame, decided to divorce her quietly. 20 Such was his intention when, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary your wife into your home. For it is through the Holy Spirit that this child has been conceived in her. 21 She will bear a son and you are to name him Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.” 22 All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: 23 “Behold, the virgin shall be with child and bear a son, and they shall name him Emmanuel,” which means “God is with us.”
Tuesday, September 7, 2010
DOS, DON'TS & EXCUSES
It is important that we go down to the details, too. In today's 1st reading St. Paul did just that. He enumerated one by one the kind of people who can not gain access to the Kingdom of God. This is to emphasize the importance of guarding our morality. We can not settle for leniency nor can we become scrupulous. It pays to really be watchful and know its dos and don’ts. Anyway, it’s not just any kind of kingdom that we’ll get disinherited from it’s the Kingdom of God. Amen. Hallelujah!
1 Cor 6:1-11
Do you not know that the unjust will not inherit the Kingdom of God? Do not be deceived; neither fornicators nor idolaters nor adulterers nor boy prostitutes nor sodomites nor thieves nor the greedy nor drunkards nor slanderers nor robbers will inherit the Kingdom of God...
NO matter who we are, what we do and where we are even in the couches as today's psalm tells us we can no longer have any excuse not to praise and give glory to God “as is where is”. Amen. Hallelujah!
Ps 149:1b-2, 3-4, 5-6a and
R. (see 4) The Lord takes delight in his people.
...let them sing for joy upon their couches; Let the high praises of God be in their throats. This is the glory of all his faithful. Alleluia.
Aside from the “as is where is’ option in giving praise and glory to God, today's gospel presents to us a different approach which is to go to the mountain to pray. There are various ways we can pray to God and we are left with less and less excuses not to pray.
Lk 6:12-19
Jesus departed to the mountain to pray, and he spent the night in prayer to God.
1 Cor 6:1-11
Do you not know that the unjust will not inherit the Kingdom of God? Do not be deceived; neither fornicators nor idolaters nor adulterers nor boy prostitutes nor sodomites nor thieves nor the greedy nor drunkards nor slanderers nor robbers will inherit the Kingdom of God...
NO matter who we are, what we do and where we are even in the couches as today's psalm tells us we can no longer have any excuse not to praise and give glory to God “as is where is”. Amen. Hallelujah!
Ps 149:1b-2, 3-4, 5-6a and
R. (see 4) The Lord takes delight in his people.
...let them sing for joy upon their couches; Let the high praises of God be in their throats. This is the glory of all his faithful. Alleluia.
Aside from the “as is where is’ option in giving praise and glory to God, today's gospel presents to us a different approach which is to go to the mountain to pray. There are various ways we can pray to God and we are left with less and less excuses not to pray.
Lk 6:12-19
Jesus departed to the mountain to pray, and he spent the night in prayer to God.
Monday, September 6, 2010
BODY & SOUL
I have often heard people say whenever they see someone suffering physically that it's better for them to suffer now while here on earth than after they die. For us, Catholics we believe in purgatory, a state or a place that purges us of our sins before we come face to face with our Lord. It is better than hell where there is no hope of being with God anymore. I guess, Paul in today’s 1st reading meant almost the same thing. We love the sinner but hate the sin. When Jesus died for us on the cross to redeem us from our sins, we have all been saved but if we continue to sin then it’s like delivering ourselves willingly to Satan who is the destroyer. While still here on earth and bound to our flesh we are still capable of atoning for our sins. On our final day here on earth that is when we are separated from our human bodies and left with just our souls. Whatever pain and suffering we are going through can be used to the advantage, if not of our bodies then of our souls. This is possible if we make a conscious effort of uniting it with Jesus’ suffering in Calvary in remembrance of Him. Every time we do this it’s almost like we are attending Holy Mass when we remember the passion, death and resurrection of Jesus, our Lord. Amen. Hallelujah!
1 Corinthians 5:1-8
...deliver this man to Satan for the destruction of his flesh, so that his spirit may be saved on the day of the Lord...
We look to God in all the things that come our way and offer it in prayers. We should not take matters into our hands but rather entrust it to God who leads us in His justice. Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalm 5:5-6, 7, 12
R: Lead me in your justice, Lord.
4 [5] For you, O God, delight not in wickedness; no evil man remains with you; 5 [6] the arrogant may not stand in your sight. You hate all evildoers. (R) 6 [7] You destroy all who speak falsehood; the bloodthirsty and the deceitful the LORD abhors. (R) 11 [12] But let all who take refuge in you be glad and exult forever. Protect them, that you may be the joy of those who love your name.
Sometimes we are focused and obsessed about one thing that we completely forget what it’s all about and meant for. We always have to be grounded on the principle of love and mercy. Today’s gospel is once again about the Sabbath and Jesus is reminding us not to be carried away or motivated by the letter of the law but rather by the spirit of the law. Amen. Hallelujah!
Luke 6:6-11
...Jesus said to them, “I ask you, is it lawful to do good on the sabbath rather than to do evil, to save life rather than to destroy it?” 10 Looking around at them all, he then said to him, “Stretch out your hand.” He did so and his hand was restored...
1 Corinthians 5:1-8
...deliver this man to Satan for the destruction of his flesh, so that his spirit may be saved on the day of the Lord...
We look to God in all the things that come our way and offer it in prayers. We should not take matters into our hands but rather entrust it to God who leads us in His justice. Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalm 5:5-6, 7, 12
R: Lead me in your justice, Lord.
4 [5] For you, O God, delight not in wickedness; no evil man remains with you; 5 [6] the arrogant may not stand in your sight. You hate all evildoers. (R) 6 [7] You destroy all who speak falsehood; the bloodthirsty and the deceitful the LORD abhors. (R) 11 [12] But let all who take refuge in you be glad and exult forever. Protect them, that you may be the joy of those who love your name.
Sometimes we are focused and obsessed about one thing that we completely forget what it’s all about and meant for. We always have to be grounded on the principle of love and mercy. Today’s gospel is once again about the Sabbath and Jesus is reminding us not to be carried away or motivated by the letter of the law but rather by the spirit of the law. Amen. Hallelujah!
Luke 6:6-11
...Jesus said to them, “I ask you, is it lawful to do good on the sabbath rather than to do evil, to save life rather than to destroy it?” 10 Looking around at them all, he then said to him, “Stretch out your hand.” He did so and his hand was restored...
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