Whenever we see spectacular movies about the supernatural powers we can always expect scenes that are breathtaking and full of suspense. It showcases things like when all else failed after everything the characters have done and death or defeat is imminent then all of a sudden the powerful forces took their side and saved them from the claws of their enemies. It always turn out as a blockbuster movie that we find we find very entertaining and amusing without realizing that just like these movie characters, we as God's people can rely on His Almighty Power to win all our battles. Amen. Hallelujah!
Zephaniah 3:14-18 (or Romans 12:9-16 or Isaiah 61:9-11)
14 Shout for joy, O daughter Zion! Sing joyfully, O Israel! Be glad and exult with all your heart, O daughter Jerusalem
Just like the Blessed Mother Mary, who is Queen of heaven and earth, we too are destined for victory and royalty. If only we live out the example of her obedient life and carry Jesus in our hearts. Amen. Hallelujah!
Isaiah 12:2-3, 4bcd, 5-6 (or 1 Samuel 2:1, 4-5, 6-7, 8abcd)
R: Among you is the great and Holy One of Israel.
2 God indeed is my savior; I am confident and unafraid. My strength and my courage is the LORD, and he has been my savior. 3 With joy you will draw water at the fountain of salvation.
Today we celebrate the Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary to St. Elizabeth. “When in the womb of their mothers, John the Voice and Jesus the Word met, the women raised their own voices in praise. Elizabeth praised Mary and her child; Mary turned the joy of them both into a hymn of praise to God.” Amen. Hallelujah!
Meditation of the Day from Magnificat: The Graces of the Visitation
The events of today’s mystery bring before the faithful in a peculiar manner the fact that our God is a hidden God, and that his power works in the soul in a secret and impenetrable manner. Four people are concerned in the occurrence we are celebrating: Jesus and Mary; St. John, and his mother St. Elizabeth. Now, it is most remarkable that of all thee sacred personages the only one who seems to perform no particular action is the Son of God himself. Elizabeth, enlightened from on high, acknowledges the Blessed Virgin’s dignity and humbles herself deeply before her: “Whence is this to me?” (Lk. 1:43) John even within Elizabeth’s womb, feels his Divine Master’s presence, and shows his joy in a wonderful way: he “leaped for joy.” Mary, marveling at the great effects of divine omnipotence in herself, exalts the holy name of God and declares his munificence in her behalf, with her whole heart. But all this time Jesus Himself, hidden beneath his Mother’s breast, gives no sensible sign of his presence. He, who is the cause of the whole mystery, takes no active part in it.
Strange as this may seem, it is not really surprising. Our Lord here hides his power intentionally, to show us how he is the invisible force that moves all things without moving himself, and directs all things without showing his hand. Hence, we shall find that though he may seem to be passive on this occasion his influence is fully apparent in the actions of the rest, whose movements are really all inspired by him alone. One of the greatest mysteries of Christianity is the holy union that the Son of God forms with us, and his secret way of visiting us… When God deigns to look upon us, we can but learn from Elizabeth how to reverence his supreme greatness by fully recognizing our own nothingness, and to acknowledge his benefits by confessing our unworthiness. Bishop Jacques Benigne Bossuet (1704) French Bishop and Theologian
Luke 1:39-56
39 Mary set out and traveled to the hill country in haste to a town of Judah, 40 where she entered the house of Zechariah and greeted Elizabeth. 41 When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the infant leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth, filled with the Holy Spirit, 42 cried out in a loud voice and said, “Most blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb. 43 And how does this happen to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? 44 For at the moment the sound of your greeting reached my ears, the infant in my womb leaped for joy. 45 Blessed are you who believed that what was spoken to you by the Lord would be fulfilled.” 46 And Mary said: “My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord; 47 my spirit rejoices in God my savior. 48 For he has looked upon his handmaid’s lowliness; behold, from now on all ages will call me blessed. 49 The Mighty One has done great things for me, and holy is his name. 50 His mercy is from age to age to those who fear him. 51 He has shown might with his arm, dispersed the arrogant of mind and heart. 52 He has thrown down the rulers from their thrones but lifted up the lowly. 53 The hungry he has filled with good things; the rich he has sent away empty. 54 He has helped Israel his servant, remembering his mercy, 55 according to his promise to our fathers, to Abraham and to his descendants forever.” 56 Mary remained with her about three months and then returned to her home.
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
Monday, May 30, 2011
L and O
There are key words in today's 1st reading that we could definitely benefit a lot from. These are words we could use for our own welfare so that we, like Lydia could enjoy the presence of God in our life. These words start with an L and O. It's easy to figure it out. All it takes is to make a conscious and committed effort to really listen and open ourselves to God. Although it may not be as easy as it may seem to be or else there would no longer be any struggles on our part. But we know for a fact that when we Listen and Open our hearts to the Lord the consequences of these actions are unimaginable and endless. If we follow what happened to Lydia it was not just herself but her household as well who turned to God. Let's just give it our best shot and see for ourselves. Amen. Hallelujah!
Acts 16:11-15
...a woman named Lydia, a dealer in purple cloth, from the city of Thyatira, a worshiper of God, listened, and the Lord opened her heart to pay attention to what Paul was saying. 15 After she and her household had been baptized, she offered us an invitation, “If you consider me a believer in the Lord, come and stay at my home,” and she prevailed on us.
I can still remember when I joined the Ikebana (Flower arrangement) in Japan. I was late and did not see the demonstration so when I was given the flowers to arrange I just did it for the sake of just getting it over and done with. What would you expect? I was not proud of what I did. In fact I did something shameful since I am representing the Philippines I even removed the label from my work. It is a consolation to know that we have a God and Creator who knows perfectly well what He is doing. No matter what we do to ourselves He will never disown us. We just have to realize that it is ourselves who eventually disown and turn our backs on God knowingly or unknowingly. We just need to remind ourselves always that when He created us, humans, He saved the best for last. He even fashioned us in His own image and likeness. In fact, up to this present time, scientists and scholars have not fully solved and understood the mysteries and wonders of the human body and soul. As far as science is concerned we the humans are the most advanced living creatures in this planet endowed with all the capacities that no other creatures are capable of. If there's one thing that we should never leave our minds and hearts is that we are on top of God's creation and takes delight in us. Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalm 149:1b-2, 3-4, 5-6a, 9b
R: The Lord takes delight in his people.
1 Sing to the LORD a new song of praise in the assembly of the faithful. 2 Let Israel be glad in their maker, let the children of Zion rejoice in their king.
Let us guard the special abilities that God has given to us. Among all other creatures on earth we should be proud that God created us, as man and woman. Let us maintain this profound human dignity that He has given to us alone. There may be times and circumstances when we neglect this truth or forget it. There is nothing more unfortunate than this. No matter what happens let us not be distracted by the cares, worries, anxieties or it could be allurements and false promises of this world. If at any time we feel that we are under attack of some kind and starting to fall away from the truth then we need to break this bad spell and get back to our senses. Today's gospel tells us that we are capable of doing so since we are not alone, we have an Advocate who is always with us and don't we ever forget that. Amen. Hallelujah!
John 15:26-16:4a
26 Jesus said to his disciples: “When the Advocate comes whom I will send you from the Father, the Spirit of truth that proceeds from the Father, he will testify to me. 27 And you also testify, because you have been with me from the beginning. 16: 1 “I have told you this so that you may not fall away...I have told you this so that when their hour comes you may remember that I told you.”
Acts 16:11-15
...a woman named Lydia, a dealer in purple cloth, from the city of Thyatira, a worshiper of God, listened, and the Lord opened her heart to pay attention to what Paul was saying. 15 After she and her household had been baptized, she offered us an invitation, “If you consider me a believer in the Lord, come and stay at my home,” and she prevailed on us.
I can still remember when I joined the Ikebana (Flower arrangement) in Japan. I was late and did not see the demonstration so when I was given the flowers to arrange I just did it for the sake of just getting it over and done with. What would you expect? I was not proud of what I did. In fact I did something shameful since I am representing the Philippines I even removed the label from my work. It is a consolation to know that we have a God and Creator who knows perfectly well what He is doing. No matter what we do to ourselves He will never disown us. We just have to realize that it is ourselves who eventually disown and turn our backs on God knowingly or unknowingly. We just need to remind ourselves always that when He created us, humans, He saved the best for last. He even fashioned us in His own image and likeness. In fact, up to this present time, scientists and scholars have not fully solved and understood the mysteries and wonders of the human body and soul. As far as science is concerned we the humans are the most advanced living creatures in this planet endowed with all the capacities that no other creatures are capable of. If there's one thing that we should never leave our minds and hearts is that we are on top of God's creation and takes delight in us. Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalm 149:1b-2, 3-4, 5-6a, 9b
R: The Lord takes delight in his people.
1 Sing to the LORD a new song of praise in the assembly of the faithful. 2 Let Israel be glad in their maker, let the children of Zion rejoice in their king.
Let us guard the special abilities that God has given to us. Among all other creatures on earth we should be proud that God created us, as man and woman. Let us maintain this profound human dignity that He has given to us alone. There may be times and circumstances when we neglect this truth or forget it. There is nothing more unfortunate than this. No matter what happens let us not be distracted by the cares, worries, anxieties or it could be allurements and false promises of this world. If at any time we feel that we are under attack of some kind and starting to fall away from the truth then we need to break this bad spell and get back to our senses. Today's gospel tells us that we are capable of doing so since we are not alone, we have an Advocate who is always with us and don't we ever forget that. Amen. Hallelujah!
John 15:26-16:4a
26 Jesus said to his disciples: “When the Advocate comes whom I will send you from the Father, the Spirit of truth that proceeds from the Father, he will testify to me. 27 And you also testify, because you have been with me from the beginning. 16: 1 “I have told you this so that you may not fall away...I have told you this so that when their hour comes you may remember that I told you.”
Sunday, May 29, 2011
THE HOLY ROSARY
Mother Mary serves as a special channel that God has given to humanity to receive His graces. It does not obscure or diminishes the one and only Mediator, Jesus Christ, rather she shows God's power even more. Jesus, the Son loves His mother and gives her the greatest grocery of graces in heaven. Mary totally depends on her Son as in the wedding feast in Cana by saying, "Do whatever He tells you." Mary knows that her Son is the ultimate source that's why she leads us to Him, the true Mediator. God Himself ordained that His only Begotten Son be born of a human mother through Mary's obedience and perfect surrender. When the angel appeared to Mary, he wasn't speaking his own thoughts and words. He was sent by God to speak God's words. In Greek, the Hail Mary is translated as Hail most highly graced one, meaning so completely graced. Mary truly is filled with God's grace. When God conceived Mary she was free from the stain of original sin. He is getting ready the 1st tabernacle of His Son here on earth. She is made holy, unstained and created in the fullness of grace. God has placed in Mary the fullness of grace. Mary conceived by her virginity and humility. It should be in our hearts to honor Mother Mary because the Son is within her body. The Father is in the Son. It is by grace that we are saved. Through Jesus and Mary all things are restored. Everything is possible with God. Who are we to defy the manner that God Himself has chosen for His Son to come to this world. These past few days were full of God's surprises bundled with blessings. I was able to attend different activities for the Lord and all of them were Spirit filled. From the Militia Immaculata Block rosary last Friday evening, the crowning of the Blessed Mother in St. Martha and God’s Children prayer meeting yesterday. I just realized that all of them were coupled with the praying of the Holy Rosary. This is indeed a testimony of the joy that the Blessed Mother Mary brings to us. Amen. Hallelujah!
Acts of the Apostles 8,5-8.14-17
...There was great joy in that city...
Each and every moment was a clear manifestation of God's tremendous love. No words can ever be enough to describe it. Blessed is Mary for believing that what was spoken to her by the Lord would be fulfilled. We can also come to a point when we can also sing our own "Magnificat" and raise our hands to God in prayer and thanksgiving for every gift He has given to us. Even those gifts of sorrow. God is in charge and He will make all things work for the good. Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalms 66(65),1-3.4-5.6-7.16.20.
...Blessed be God, who did not refuse me the kindness I sought in prayer.
Mother Mary serves as a special channel that God has given to humanity to receive His graces. It does not obscure or diminishes the one and only Mediator, Jesus Christ, rather she shows God's power even more. Jesus, the Son loves His mother and gives her the greatest grocery of graces in heaven. Mary totally depends on her Son as in the wedding feast in Cana by saying, "Do whatever He tells you." Mary knows that her Son is the ultimate source that's why she leads us to Him, the true Mediator. God Himself ordained that His only Begotten Son be born of a human mother through Mary's obedience and perfect surrender. When the angel appeared to Mary, he wasn't speaking his own thoughts and words. He was sent by God to speak God's words. In Greek, the Hail Mary is translated as Hail most highly graced one, meaning so completely graced. Mary truly is filled with God's grace. When God conceived Mary she was free from the stain of original sin. He is getting ready the 1st tabernacle of His Son here on earth. She is made holy, unstained and created in the fullness of grace. God has placed in Mary the fullness of grace. Mary conceived by her virginity and humility. It should be in our hearts to honor Mother Mary because the Son is within her body. The Father is in the Son. It is by grace that we are saved. Through Jesus and Mary all things are restored. Everything is possible with God. Who are we to defy the manner that God Himself has chosen for His Son to come to this world. Amen. Hallelujah!
First Letter of Peter 3,15-18.
...Always be ready to give an explanation to anyone who asks you for a reason for your hope, but do it with gentleness and reverence, keeping your conscience clear, so that, when you are maligned, those who defame your good conduct in Christ may themselves be put to shame...
Mary kept everything in her heart. From the time of the Annunciation in the Joyful Mysteries, to the time of the Passion and Death of Jesus in the Sorrowful Mysteries, to the time of illumination in the Luminous Mysteries up to the Resurrection in the Glorious Mysteries. Praying the rosary with sincere meditation contains all the mysteries that hold the key to this great love of God for us. Amen. Hallelujah!
Holy Gospel of Jesus Christ according to Saint John 14,15-21.
...And whoever loves me will be loved by my Father, and I will love him and reveal myself to him."
Acts of the Apostles 8,5-8.14-17
...There was great joy in that city...
Each and every moment was a clear manifestation of God's tremendous love. No words can ever be enough to describe it. Blessed is Mary for believing that what was spoken to her by the Lord would be fulfilled. We can also come to a point when we can also sing our own "Magnificat" and raise our hands to God in prayer and thanksgiving for every gift He has given to us. Even those gifts of sorrow. God is in charge and He will make all things work for the good. Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalms 66(65),1-3.4-5.6-7.16.20.
...Blessed be God, who did not refuse me the kindness I sought in prayer.
Mother Mary serves as a special channel that God has given to humanity to receive His graces. It does not obscure or diminishes the one and only Mediator, Jesus Christ, rather she shows God's power even more. Jesus, the Son loves His mother and gives her the greatest grocery of graces in heaven. Mary totally depends on her Son as in the wedding feast in Cana by saying, "Do whatever He tells you." Mary knows that her Son is the ultimate source that's why she leads us to Him, the true Mediator. God Himself ordained that His only Begotten Son be born of a human mother through Mary's obedience and perfect surrender. When the angel appeared to Mary, he wasn't speaking his own thoughts and words. He was sent by God to speak God's words. In Greek, the Hail Mary is translated as Hail most highly graced one, meaning so completely graced. Mary truly is filled with God's grace. When God conceived Mary she was free from the stain of original sin. He is getting ready the 1st tabernacle of His Son here on earth. She is made holy, unstained and created in the fullness of grace. God has placed in Mary the fullness of grace. Mary conceived by her virginity and humility. It should be in our hearts to honor Mother Mary because the Son is within her body. The Father is in the Son. It is by grace that we are saved. Through Jesus and Mary all things are restored. Everything is possible with God. Who are we to defy the manner that God Himself has chosen for His Son to come to this world. Amen. Hallelujah!
First Letter of Peter 3,15-18.
...Always be ready to give an explanation to anyone who asks you for a reason for your hope, but do it with gentleness and reverence, keeping your conscience clear, so that, when you are maligned, those who defame your good conduct in Christ may themselves be put to shame...
Mary kept everything in her heart. From the time of the Annunciation in the Joyful Mysteries, to the time of the Passion and Death of Jesus in the Sorrowful Mysteries, to the time of illumination in the Luminous Mysteries up to the Resurrection in the Glorious Mysteries. Praying the rosary with sincere meditation contains all the mysteries that hold the key to this great love of God for us. Amen. Hallelujah!
Holy Gospel of Jesus Christ according to Saint John 14,15-21.
...And whoever loves me will be loved by my Father, and I will love him and reveal myself to him."
Saturday, May 28, 2011
DREAMS AND VISIONS
Everything happens for a reason and there is always a mission that goes with it. Sometimes we tend to get discouraged and disappointed when our plans do not turn out the way we wanted it to happen. We struggle at times and lose our direction. We fail to sometimes realize that our God is always in control and on top of everything. We should always have this mindset that He is a God who can make things happen. If it doesn't work out the way we expected things to be then be at peace that God has something better for us or the best is yet to come. What's most important is that we always pray for guidance and enlightenment from the Holy Spirit to direct us to the right path, make us sensitive and obedient to the Holy Spirit. If we seek God's will in our lives and consciously live out the teachings of the life of Jesus then we can be assured that we will never be led astray. Everything comes from God. All good things come from God. All blessings come from God. God pours out to us the all abundant love in every possible way. Love and life is not simple other wise we will be living in a heavenly world where there is no strife, deceit, injustice and division. The world we live in is fractured, unless we stop doing mundane and distracting things that pulls us away from visualizing the things of God then we will just find ourselves distracted and unfocused. We just might find ourselves going in all directions but not really finding where we are supposed to go. God sends us various messages that could be in the form of a vision or dream just like in today’s 1st reading. It tells us how Paul and the others traveled from place to place spreading the word of God with the guidance of the Holy Spirit directing them every step of the way. This is how we should relate to God by aiming to encounter Him in an intimate and personal way. Amen. Hallelujah!
Acts 16:1-10
…During the night Paul had a vision. A Macedonian stood before him and implored him with these words, “Come over to Macedonia and help us.” 10 When he had seen the vision, we sought passage to Macedonia at once, concluding that God had called us to proclaim the good news to them.
The Jews knew of the prophecy that from King David’s lineage would come forth a King, the foretold Messiah of Israel. During the reign of King Ahaz and all other kings of Israel who did evil things the royalty was cut off. During the Babylonian captivity and in exile, those born of the line of David, of royal blood went in hiding for fear of being killed. Even though the divinic dynasty was cut off, from the tree of Jesse, the father of King David, came forth the shoot that brought forth the King. We remember that it was prophesied in Isaiah 11:1 And there shall come forth a rod out of the stem of Jesse, and a branch shall grow out of his roots.” The genealogy of Jesus in Matthew 1 tells of this family tree. We would find at the end of this lineage is Joseph who is the husband of Mary the mother of Jesus. Joseph is not king but a carpenter and being Jew knew of the prophecy as foretold by the prophet including this one from Isaiah 7:14 … the Lord Himself shall give you a sign, “Behold a virgin shall conceive and bear a son and shall call His name Emmanuel.” as spoken to him by the angel who appeared to him. He finally understood the fulfillment of God’s promise to Israel. Isaiah is important to better understand Jesus. Joseph knew of the need for secrecy and not to make public these things because the reigning king at that time is Herod. He is not Jew but an Edomite who was just appointed by the Romans to be king. King not for the Jews but for the Romans to collect taxes for them. This is mainly the reason why Herod wants all male babies born at the time of Jesus, dead. Joseph dreamed a lot of dreams and it was through them that Joseph was able to successfully carry out his mission as the protector of the baby Jesus. Another point of reference here is the fact that in the Old Testament (OT) there was a foreshadowing of the Magi or Wise Men who came to worship Jesus in the manger. It was at the time of the reign of Balak an evil king in the OT when Balaam also a wise man from the East prophesied in Numbers 24:15,18 that there shall come a Star out of Jacob and a Scepter shall rise out of Israel who will dispossess Edom. He was asked to exact a curse upon Israel but from his mouth came forth a blessing. A star and a scepter signifies kingship. In parallel, it was also the 3 wise men who were looking for a star that would direct them to the newborn King of Israel who would inform Herod of his whereabouts but warned in a dream not to go back to him in a dream. Jesus is truly our King. The Kingship of Jesus is accompanied by many more wonderful things that we still have to know of. In the Jewish tradition the # 3 and 7 stands for perfection and completeness. It is somehow puzzling to know that there are 3 sets of 14 generations from the time of Abraham to the exile to the time of Jesus. So why the #14? The significance of the #14 stands for the name of King David which is equivalent to 14 in Hebrew. The 3 sets of 14 stands for perfect royalty and king that all leads to Jesus. It could also be equivalent to 6 sets of 7. The #6 signifies the date when the beast is made or the beginning thus the #666 which signifies the beast of all beasts. The 6 of 7 sets could mean the beginning of the 7th set. 7 is also the Sabbath. The new 7 is the new creation. Jesus is the beginning of the 7th set. Why the fuss in all of these? It is a consolation to know that we have a God who is King. The King of kings and the Lord of lords. We will eventually come face to face with our Creator and God who made heaven and earth. The time is now to make a conscious move to be in touch with this truth. This truth is more than enough reason for us to shout out with joy as the psalm today tells us. Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalm 100:1b-2, 3, 5
R: Let all the earth cry out to God with joy.
1 Sing joyfully to the LORD, all you lands; 2 serve the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful song. (R) 3 Know that the LORD is God; he made us, his we are; his people, the flock he tends. (R) 5 The LORD is good: his kindness endures forever, and his faithfulness, to all generations.
We have to realize that we are living in a sinful world that we have to be very careful that we are not enticed by its call. Sometimes we do things in order to cope with the present times without realizing that we are already compromising the most essential truth about us. We are just passing by and temporary residents of this world, what will matter most is for us to prepare for our one true inheritance from God, live forever in His kingdom. Life is never easy and fair at times. Jesus Himself said something like it it in today's gospel. If we go through trials and hardships on account of His name and sometimes lose heart when confronted by the doubting and questioning minds of some people then we should always stand firm in our principles and convictions anchored in Jesus. No matter how difficult it may seem we must not lose sight of what kind of suffering Jesus had to go through and all our problems will fade in the background. We should always have the attitude of humble acceptance and complete surrender clinging only to God and not on any person, thing, situation or possession in life. These experiences will all amount to something great in the end. Which reminds me of the story of a silversmith (narrated by Fr. Joseph Magdaong) who purifies silver by allowing it to sit on the fire at its extreme heat until it finally comes out pure. The silversmith knows that the work is done once the silver starts to reflect the image of the silversmith/refiner. Allow this to sink in to our souls for in time we will all come to know that we are in truth blessed and full of grace. And just like the Blessed Mother's response to the angel's announcement we also should say, "Thy will be done." In order for us to do this we must realize that all of us because of original sin has an innate weakness to sin. This is concupiscence which detaches a person from divine love. It is the counterfeit of love that Satan has introduced to the world to deceive and rid us of the true and authentic love. The enemy counterfeits love and the only manner we can defeat this is by receiving God’s divine love. In a world where we have lost divine love and participated in sin there is a demand to know the divine love. It is holistic and brings the person together. The enemy can not derail this love. It is the kind of love that interacts with creation and does not pillage it. It respects everything in creation. It changes, elevates and renews the human heart. It defends, protects and strengthens us over the power of concupiscence. This love could be very demanding and could be overwhelming in the sense that the world could hate us for this in the same way that Jesus is telling us today in the gospel. We have to realize that man can not live without God’s love. We need to experience, encounter, and make it as our own in order to participate intimately in it. Can we live in an impoverished and imperfect love? The answer is no. It is the injustice and imbalance that it causes in our nature that creates the lost peace. The circumstances that follow are catastrophic and will prevail unless we infuse ourselves with the living divine love that comes from God. Only Jesus can teach us how to live and receive it. God creates this place, the heart, where the lover can love the beloved and the beloved reciprocates that love. It freely gives to each other without condition and does not hope for anything in return. How can we live through the demands of this love? Remember, Jesus does not expect us to love with a divine love with our human power but it is through the power of the Holy Spirit that dwells in us. It will empower us to live the exigencies of this love. The Comforter and Advocate remains with us and is given to us. It moves and enables us to love one another. Allows us to see as He sees, forgive as He forgives and loves as He loves. Unless we invite Jesus into our human hearts and allow Him to nourish and form it we remain impoverished and lost. We have to rise up from this and seek to attain the intimacy of the love that is precious and seek only to give. We need to enter into this level knowing that God makes all things possible. Amen. Hallelujah!
John 15:18-21
18 Jesus said to his disciples: “If the world hates you, realize that it hated me first. 19 If you belonged to the world, the world would love its own; but because you do not belong to the world, and I have chosen you out of the world, the world hates you.
Acts 16:1-10
…During the night Paul had a vision. A Macedonian stood before him and implored him with these words, “Come over to Macedonia and help us.” 10 When he had seen the vision, we sought passage to Macedonia at once, concluding that God had called us to proclaim the good news to them.
The Jews knew of the prophecy that from King David’s lineage would come forth a King, the foretold Messiah of Israel. During the reign of King Ahaz and all other kings of Israel who did evil things the royalty was cut off. During the Babylonian captivity and in exile, those born of the line of David, of royal blood went in hiding for fear of being killed. Even though the divinic dynasty was cut off, from the tree of Jesse, the father of King David, came forth the shoot that brought forth the King. We remember that it was prophesied in Isaiah 11:1 And there shall come forth a rod out of the stem of Jesse, and a branch shall grow out of his roots.” The genealogy of Jesus in Matthew 1 tells of this family tree. We would find at the end of this lineage is Joseph who is the husband of Mary the mother of Jesus. Joseph is not king but a carpenter and being Jew knew of the prophecy as foretold by the prophet including this one from Isaiah 7:14 … the Lord Himself shall give you a sign, “Behold a virgin shall conceive and bear a son and shall call His name Emmanuel.” as spoken to him by the angel who appeared to him. He finally understood the fulfillment of God’s promise to Israel. Isaiah is important to better understand Jesus. Joseph knew of the need for secrecy and not to make public these things because the reigning king at that time is Herod. He is not Jew but an Edomite who was just appointed by the Romans to be king. King not for the Jews but for the Romans to collect taxes for them. This is mainly the reason why Herod wants all male babies born at the time of Jesus, dead. Joseph dreamed a lot of dreams and it was through them that Joseph was able to successfully carry out his mission as the protector of the baby Jesus. Another point of reference here is the fact that in the Old Testament (OT) there was a foreshadowing of the Magi or Wise Men who came to worship Jesus in the manger. It was at the time of the reign of Balak an evil king in the OT when Balaam also a wise man from the East prophesied in Numbers 24:15,18 that there shall come a Star out of Jacob and a Scepter shall rise out of Israel who will dispossess Edom. He was asked to exact a curse upon Israel but from his mouth came forth a blessing. A star and a scepter signifies kingship. In parallel, it was also the 3 wise men who were looking for a star that would direct them to the newborn King of Israel who would inform Herod of his whereabouts but warned in a dream not to go back to him in a dream. Jesus is truly our King. The Kingship of Jesus is accompanied by many more wonderful things that we still have to know of. In the Jewish tradition the # 3 and 7 stands for perfection and completeness. It is somehow puzzling to know that there are 3 sets of 14 generations from the time of Abraham to the exile to the time of Jesus. So why the #14? The significance of the #14 stands for the name of King David which is equivalent to 14 in Hebrew. The 3 sets of 14 stands for perfect royalty and king that all leads to Jesus. It could also be equivalent to 6 sets of 7. The #6 signifies the date when the beast is made or the beginning thus the #666 which signifies the beast of all beasts. The 6 of 7 sets could mean the beginning of the 7th set. 7 is also the Sabbath. The new 7 is the new creation. Jesus is the beginning of the 7th set. Why the fuss in all of these? It is a consolation to know that we have a God who is King. The King of kings and the Lord of lords. We will eventually come face to face with our Creator and God who made heaven and earth. The time is now to make a conscious move to be in touch with this truth. This truth is more than enough reason for us to shout out with joy as the psalm today tells us. Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalm 100:1b-2, 3, 5
R: Let all the earth cry out to God with joy.
1 Sing joyfully to the LORD, all you lands; 2 serve the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful song. (R) 3 Know that the LORD is God; he made us, his we are; his people, the flock he tends. (R) 5 The LORD is good: his kindness endures forever, and his faithfulness, to all generations.
We have to realize that we are living in a sinful world that we have to be very careful that we are not enticed by its call. Sometimes we do things in order to cope with the present times without realizing that we are already compromising the most essential truth about us. We are just passing by and temporary residents of this world, what will matter most is for us to prepare for our one true inheritance from God, live forever in His kingdom. Life is never easy and fair at times. Jesus Himself said something like it it in today's gospel. If we go through trials and hardships on account of His name and sometimes lose heart when confronted by the doubting and questioning minds of some people then we should always stand firm in our principles and convictions anchored in Jesus. No matter how difficult it may seem we must not lose sight of what kind of suffering Jesus had to go through and all our problems will fade in the background. We should always have the attitude of humble acceptance and complete surrender clinging only to God and not on any person, thing, situation or possession in life. These experiences will all amount to something great in the end. Which reminds me of the story of a silversmith (narrated by Fr. Joseph Magdaong) who purifies silver by allowing it to sit on the fire at its extreme heat until it finally comes out pure. The silversmith knows that the work is done once the silver starts to reflect the image of the silversmith/refiner. Allow this to sink in to our souls for in time we will all come to know that we are in truth blessed and full of grace. And just like the Blessed Mother's response to the angel's announcement we also should say, "Thy will be done." In order for us to do this we must realize that all of us because of original sin has an innate weakness to sin. This is concupiscence which detaches a person from divine love. It is the counterfeit of love that Satan has introduced to the world to deceive and rid us of the true and authentic love. The enemy counterfeits love and the only manner we can defeat this is by receiving God’s divine love. In a world where we have lost divine love and participated in sin there is a demand to know the divine love. It is holistic and brings the person together. The enemy can not derail this love. It is the kind of love that interacts with creation and does not pillage it. It respects everything in creation. It changes, elevates and renews the human heart. It defends, protects and strengthens us over the power of concupiscence. This love could be very demanding and could be overwhelming in the sense that the world could hate us for this in the same way that Jesus is telling us today in the gospel. We have to realize that man can not live without God’s love. We need to experience, encounter, and make it as our own in order to participate intimately in it. Can we live in an impoverished and imperfect love? The answer is no. It is the injustice and imbalance that it causes in our nature that creates the lost peace. The circumstances that follow are catastrophic and will prevail unless we infuse ourselves with the living divine love that comes from God. Only Jesus can teach us how to live and receive it. God creates this place, the heart, where the lover can love the beloved and the beloved reciprocates that love. It freely gives to each other without condition and does not hope for anything in return. How can we live through the demands of this love? Remember, Jesus does not expect us to love with a divine love with our human power but it is through the power of the Holy Spirit that dwells in us. It will empower us to live the exigencies of this love. The Comforter and Advocate remains with us and is given to us. It moves and enables us to love one another. Allows us to see as He sees, forgive as He forgives and loves as He loves. Unless we invite Jesus into our human hearts and allow Him to nourish and form it we remain impoverished and lost. We have to rise up from this and seek to attain the intimacy of the love that is precious and seek only to give. We need to enter into this level knowing that God makes all things possible. Amen. Hallelujah!
John 15:18-21
18 Jesus said to his disciples: “If the world hates you, realize that it hated me first. 19 If you belonged to the world, the world would love its own; but because you do not belong to the world, and I have chosen you out of the world, the world hates you.
Friday, May 27, 2011
OPEN WINDOWS
Believe it or not, we still have brothers and sisters in the faith who believe that God punishes and wants to see us suffer. This may not be directly implied but just the same we have the tendency to think this way. We must not forget that we are in a constant battle in this world that could be compared to a tug of war between good and evil. Sad things are not willed by God, He wills only the good things. Let us ask the Lord that we see these things with understanding and ask Him to preserve us from evil and the father of lies, promising peace when there is no peace. This is a reality that we have to keep in mind always but the greater truth lies in the fact that Jesus has won this battle. Once again I ask the same question I asked yesterday. Will we allow Jesus to have power over us and defeat the role of evil in our life? We have our worries, fears and insecurities for a future that is planned which may never come. We must not forget what we are destined for. There is a place in heaven already waiting for us with our names on it. God loves us so much that He intended everything for us to be with radiant love. Amen. Hallelujah!
Acts 15:22-31
...‘It is the decision of the holy Spirit and of us not to place on you any burden...
There was this Roman emperor, Diocletian in 303 AD in North Africa (presently known as Tunisia) who persecuted Christians at that time. He ordered the tearing down of Churches and imprisonment of people who would be caught in Christian worship which was considered illegal at that time. In fact inhabitants of entire villages were put to death when they refused to submit to pagan worship. These martyrs persevered to the end. Their love and devotion to God can not be denied and was even documented in the record books. When they were asked if they owned a bible they answered that they keep the bible in their hearts and it can not be destroyed. Furthermore they said when asked why they received Christians in their homes to gather for Holy Mass, they answered, " Si ne Dominico non possimus" which means "Without the Lord's day we can not cope. We are unable to live as we should." They became the Holy Eucharist Models up to the present time. This is a truth that we should be aware of, we can not live without the Eucharist, in order to cope with the toil and exhaustion of the journey in this world we are presently in. The Eucharist is at the root of all holiness. How many saints have advanced to holiness through the Eucharist? Holiness has always found its center in the Eucharist. It is highest form of praise to God. Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalm 57:8-9, 10, 12
R: I will give you thanks among the peoples, O Lord.
7 [8] My heart is steadfast, O God; my heart is steadfast; I will sing and chant praise. 8 [9] Awake, O my soul; awake, lyre and harp! I will wake the dawn. 9 [10] I will give thanks to you among the peoples, O Lord. I will chant your praise among the nations, 11 [12] Be exalted above the heavens, O God; above all the earth be your glory!
God is offering us something great and beyond our comprehensions. As in, "no eye has seen nor ear has heard" what God has ready for those who accept this invitation and obey this commandment of Jesus in today's gospel. God has the right to command us because He was the one who chose us first. When God gave up His only Son to die on the cross and Jesus obeyed unto death, even the angels and saints could not take this incredible sacrifice of a God. Jesus, the only Begotten Son of God, stripped Himself of this royalty and was subjected to the most humiliating and excruciating pain. It was through this that Jesus showed us the power of powerlessness. When we ourselves are confronted with such situations we might as well take it as a privilege and invitation to throw our powerlessness to God and receive the power of Jesus to lift us up. God has poured and emptied Himself out in every possible way. This should be our motivation. The great love of God is inexplicably incredible and wonderful. It reaches out to all of us and all He asks of us is that we acknowledge, believe and obey Him. God does not force His way in and is very well mannered. He is like light that comes in open windows. We've got to be receptive and open to Him. Amen. Hallelujah!
John 15:12-17
12 Jesus said to his disciples: “This is my commandment: love one another as I love you. 13 No one has greater love than this, to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. 14 You are my friends if you do what I command you. 15 I no longer call you slaves, because a slave does not know what his master is doing. I have called you friends, because I have told you everything I have heard from my Father. 16 It was not you who chose me, but I who chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit that will remain, so that whatever you ask the Father in my name he may give you. 17 This I command you: love one another.”
Acts 15:22-31
...‘It is the decision of the holy Spirit and of us not to place on you any burden...
There was this Roman emperor, Diocletian in 303 AD in North Africa (presently known as Tunisia) who persecuted Christians at that time. He ordered the tearing down of Churches and imprisonment of people who would be caught in Christian worship which was considered illegal at that time. In fact inhabitants of entire villages were put to death when they refused to submit to pagan worship. These martyrs persevered to the end. Their love and devotion to God can not be denied and was even documented in the record books. When they were asked if they owned a bible they answered that they keep the bible in their hearts and it can not be destroyed. Furthermore they said when asked why they received Christians in their homes to gather for Holy Mass, they answered, " Si ne Dominico non possimus" which means "Without the Lord's day we can not cope. We are unable to live as we should." They became the Holy Eucharist Models up to the present time. This is a truth that we should be aware of, we can not live without the Eucharist, in order to cope with the toil and exhaustion of the journey in this world we are presently in. The Eucharist is at the root of all holiness. How many saints have advanced to holiness through the Eucharist? Holiness has always found its center in the Eucharist. It is highest form of praise to God. Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalm 57:8-9, 10, 12
R: I will give you thanks among the peoples, O Lord.
7 [8] My heart is steadfast, O God; my heart is steadfast; I will sing and chant praise. 8 [9] Awake, O my soul; awake, lyre and harp! I will wake the dawn. 9 [10] I will give thanks to you among the peoples, O Lord. I will chant your praise among the nations, 11 [12] Be exalted above the heavens, O God; above all the earth be your glory!
God is offering us something great and beyond our comprehensions. As in, "no eye has seen nor ear has heard" what God has ready for those who accept this invitation and obey this commandment of Jesus in today's gospel. God has the right to command us because He was the one who chose us first. When God gave up His only Son to die on the cross and Jesus obeyed unto death, even the angels and saints could not take this incredible sacrifice of a God. Jesus, the only Begotten Son of God, stripped Himself of this royalty and was subjected to the most humiliating and excruciating pain. It was through this that Jesus showed us the power of powerlessness. When we ourselves are confronted with such situations we might as well take it as a privilege and invitation to throw our powerlessness to God and receive the power of Jesus to lift us up. God has poured and emptied Himself out in every possible way. This should be our motivation. The great love of God is inexplicably incredible and wonderful. It reaches out to all of us and all He asks of us is that we acknowledge, believe and obey Him. God does not force His way in and is very well mannered. He is like light that comes in open windows. We've got to be receptive and open to Him. Amen. Hallelujah!
John 15:12-17
12 Jesus said to his disciples: “This is my commandment: love one another as I love you. 13 No one has greater love than this, to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. 14 You are my friends if you do what I command you. 15 I no longer call you slaves, because a slave does not know what his master is doing. I have called you friends, because I have told you everything I have heard from my Father. 16 It was not you who chose me, but I who chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit that will remain, so that whatever you ask the Father in my name he may give you. 17 This I command you: love one another.”
Thursday, May 26, 2011
BE GRAFTED
God invites all nations to the faith so that all people might be grafted on to the Lord our God. Each one of us is called to see and experience the life of joy and peace that's lasting and beyond our understanding. He made no distinction as clearly stated in today's 1st reading. There is a temptation that like them during that time would feel anxious and discriminate other believers. Who are we to contradict God's work as quoted and prophesied in Amos 9:11-12. God has made the Gentiles His own by the power of the Holy Spirit like branches that has been grafted on and get the same sap of the same tree. They were also called to the same union. They too can follow the commandments of Jesus as well as the rest of the people of the world. Amen. Hallelujah!
Acts 15:7-21
...God, who knows the heart, bore witness by granting them the Holy Spirit just as he did us. 9 He made no distinction between us and them, for by faith he purified their hearts. 10 Why, then, are you now putting God to the test by placing on the shoulders of the disciples a yoke that neither our ancestors nor we have been able to bear? 11 On the contrary, we believe that we are saved through the grace of the Lord Jesus, in the same way as they.” 12 The whole assembly fell silent, and they listened while Paul and Barnabas described the signs and wonders God had worked among the Gentiles through them. 13 After they had fallen silent, James responded, “My brothers, listen to me. 14 Symeon has described how God first concerned himself with acquiring from among the Gentiles a people for his name. 15 The words of the prophets agree with this, as is written: 16 ‘After this I shall return and rebuild the fallen hut of David; from its ruins I shall rebuild it and raise it up again, 17 so that the rest of humanity may seek out the Lord, even all the Gentiles on whom my name is invoked. Thus says the Lord who accomplishes these things, 18 known from of old.’...
No one is excluded from God's call of love. God is sending all of us a friendship despite our coldness towards Him. He gives us all that we need. He is as good as He is great. He is very lavish with His promises and faithful in keeping them. Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalm 96:1-2a, 2b-3, 10
R: Proclaim God’s marvelous deeds to all the nations.
1 Sing to the LORD a new song; sing to the LORD, all you lands. 2 Sing to the LORD; bless his name. (R) Announce his salvation, day after day. 3 Tell his glory among the nations; among all peoples, his wondrous deeds. (R) 10 Say among the nations: The LORD is king. He has made the world firm, not to be moved; he governs the peoples with equity.
Yesterday, Jesus said in the gospel that He is the vine and we are the branches. We can only bear fruit and have life only if we are attached to Him, the Vine. We receive His grace, the sap flowing through the branches. It is noteworthy that in the gospel of John, it is very rare that Jesus gives a commandment. In today's gospel in John, He gives us this commandment, "Remain in my love..." This love is fully given to us but if we look carefully enough we will find that we don't deserve it. It's not because of something good we have done and get in return. It is not based on some kind of contract but more of a relationship. If we keep this commandment then God will remain in us. It somehow depicts the aspect of the Blessed Trinity, that we are made in the image and likeness of God so we imitate the life of the Trinity. When Jesus speaks and almost always He will say this, "I came not to speak on my own words but the Father's." We are all desirous of self expression. It is good to express one's self, whether it is right or wrong, though, self expression is not the ultimate good. As we come to know this, we must keep in mind that our Lord's words is one of the means of keeping the commandment. In order for us to remain in Him as we maintain our branches attached to Him. We must recognize the need to focus on Jesus, listen to Him as a response to this commandment and call of love. To love Him is keeping ourselves attached to Him. Sometimes we ask, "What about myself?" Many times we react negatively. We sometimes have trepidations and doubt whether we can be able to live out His commands. There is always the temptation not to follow the Lord's words in scriptures. We misinterpret happiness that the world offers. We give in to it and get drunk by what it has to offer. Only to find ourselves with a hangover and regret of what we have done. When we give in to temptation and start to sin we ought to remember too that only the nice stuff are being presented to us at that time of temptation. We ought to realize that what it offers to us is just a spur of the moment and fleeting joy but would never last. If we respond to Jesus' commandment and enter into the process of moving away from sin then we will have a joy that lasts and a peace that surpasses understanding as St. Paul says in Corinthians. We are no longer kids who want to play with an empty decorated box rather than own a diamond. God wants us to have the diamond which lasts forever. This is the reality of the joy that lasts and is complete. Amen. Hallelujah!
John 15:9-11
9 Jesus said to his disciples: “As the Father loves me, so I also love you. Remain in my love. 10 If you keep my commandments, you will remain in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commandments and remain in his love. 11 “I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and your joy may be complete.”
Acts 15:7-21
...God, who knows the heart, bore witness by granting them the Holy Spirit just as he did us. 9 He made no distinction between us and them, for by faith he purified their hearts. 10 Why, then, are you now putting God to the test by placing on the shoulders of the disciples a yoke that neither our ancestors nor we have been able to bear? 11 On the contrary, we believe that we are saved through the grace of the Lord Jesus, in the same way as they.” 12 The whole assembly fell silent, and they listened while Paul and Barnabas described the signs and wonders God had worked among the Gentiles through them. 13 After they had fallen silent, James responded, “My brothers, listen to me. 14 Symeon has described how God first concerned himself with acquiring from among the Gentiles a people for his name. 15 The words of the prophets agree with this, as is written: 16 ‘After this I shall return and rebuild the fallen hut of David; from its ruins I shall rebuild it and raise it up again, 17 so that the rest of humanity may seek out the Lord, even all the Gentiles on whom my name is invoked. Thus says the Lord who accomplishes these things, 18 known from of old.’...
No one is excluded from God's call of love. God is sending all of us a friendship despite our coldness towards Him. He gives us all that we need. He is as good as He is great. He is very lavish with His promises and faithful in keeping them. Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalm 96:1-2a, 2b-3, 10
R: Proclaim God’s marvelous deeds to all the nations.
1 Sing to the LORD a new song; sing to the LORD, all you lands. 2 Sing to the LORD; bless his name. (R) Announce his salvation, day after day. 3 Tell his glory among the nations; among all peoples, his wondrous deeds. (R) 10 Say among the nations: The LORD is king. He has made the world firm, not to be moved; he governs the peoples with equity.
Yesterday, Jesus said in the gospel that He is the vine and we are the branches. We can only bear fruit and have life only if we are attached to Him, the Vine. We receive His grace, the sap flowing through the branches. It is noteworthy that in the gospel of John, it is very rare that Jesus gives a commandment. In today's gospel in John, He gives us this commandment, "Remain in my love..." This love is fully given to us but if we look carefully enough we will find that we don't deserve it. It's not because of something good we have done and get in return. It is not based on some kind of contract but more of a relationship. If we keep this commandment then God will remain in us. It somehow depicts the aspect of the Blessed Trinity, that we are made in the image and likeness of God so we imitate the life of the Trinity. When Jesus speaks and almost always He will say this, "I came not to speak on my own words but the Father's." We are all desirous of self expression. It is good to express one's self, whether it is right or wrong, though, self expression is not the ultimate good. As we come to know this, we must keep in mind that our Lord's words is one of the means of keeping the commandment. In order for us to remain in Him as we maintain our branches attached to Him. We must recognize the need to focus on Jesus, listen to Him as a response to this commandment and call of love. To love Him is keeping ourselves attached to Him. Sometimes we ask, "What about myself?" Many times we react negatively. We sometimes have trepidations and doubt whether we can be able to live out His commands. There is always the temptation not to follow the Lord's words in scriptures. We misinterpret happiness that the world offers. We give in to it and get drunk by what it has to offer. Only to find ourselves with a hangover and regret of what we have done. When we give in to temptation and start to sin we ought to remember too that only the nice stuff are being presented to us at that time of temptation. We ought to realize that what it offers to us is just a spur of the moment and fleeting joy but would never last. If we respond to Jesus' commandment and enter into the process of moving away from sin then we will have a joy that lasts and a peace that surpasses understanding as St. Paul says in Corinthians. We are no longer kids who want to play with an empty decorated box rather than own a diamond. God wants us to have the diamond which lasts forever. This is the reality of the joy that lasts and is complete. Amen. Hallelujah!
John 15:9-11
9 Jesus said to his disciples: “As the Father loves me, so I also love you. Remain in my love. 10 If you keep my commandments, you will remain in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commandments and remain in his love. 11 “I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and your joy may be complete.”
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
IT'S ALL UP TO US
There are certain issues in our faith that we need to clarify and be confident of. We need to face them and clear things up rather than remain unsure about it. When we encounter people who are not well informed about these things we need to do all in our power to correct them and guide them to the truth. If we ourselves are not clear about it how can we guide them. We have a responsibility in our hands that we must not take for granted because it concerns not just them but all of us. When everything has been said and done then we can be ready to face our God anytime. Amen. Hallelujah!
Acts 15:1-6
...some from the party of the Pharisees who had become believers stood up and said, “It is necessary to circumcise them and direct them to observe the Mosaic law.” 6 The Apostles and the presbyters met together to see about this matter.
If we are all set and very sure where we are headed then nothing can stop us from being there. Considering, too that we have a God who has secured a place and our future for us. John 14:1-3, "1 Jesus said to his disciples: “Do not let your hearts be troubled. You have faith in God; have faith also in me. 2 In my Father’s house there are many dwelling places. If there were not, would I have told you that I am going to prepare a place for you? 3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back again and take you to myself, so that where I am you also may be." Nothing or no one can prevent us unless we ourselves decide not to go. The truth is, it's all up to us. Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalm 122:1-2, 3-4ab, 4cd-5
R: Let us go rejoicing to the house of the Lord.
1 I rejoiced because they said to me, “We will go up to the house of the LORD.” 2 And now we have set foot within your gates, O Jerusalem. (R) 3 Jerusalem, built as a city with compact unity. 4 To it the tribes go up, the tribes of the LORD. (R) According to the decree for Israel, to give thanks to the name of the LORD. 5 In it are set up judgment seats, seats for the house of David.
Every tree that bears fruit undergo pruning in order for it to bear more fruit. The same with our lives there are times when we think that we are doing what is pleasing to God but we are still beset with a lot of problems. There seems to be no end to it but we must realize that in order for us to continue and persevere we have to be tested and stand firm in our faith in God. We have to be stimulated constantly in order for us to be always on the go and active for God and inevitably bearing much fruit. Satan, the ruler of this world is taking over by means of his lies and deception. From the very beginning he has no power over Jesus Christ. When he has taken over Judas it was through a lie disguised in a kiss. When Judas lied and said to Jesus, "Is it I, Lord?" he led Jesus to death by deception with a kiss. Satan is still in this world but he has no power over Jesus even when it seemed as if Satan has defeated Jesus. With Pilate's cynicisms when he asked, "What is truth?" and the existing government's inability at that time to protect the innocent. Jesus can have power over us. Satan can have power over us. Will we allow Jesus Christ to have power over us and defeat the role of evil in our life? That decision between good and evil, truth and deception, death and life is ours to make. Do we follow Him or not? Once again, it's all up to us. Amen. Hallelujah!
John 15:1-8
...Remain in me, as I remain in you. Just as a branch cannot bear fruit on its own unless it remains on the vine, so neither can you unless you remain in me. 5 I am the vine, you are the branches. Whoever remains in me and I in him will bear much fruit, because without me you can do nothing. 6 Anyone who does not remain in me will be thrown out like a branch and wither; people will gather them and throw them into a fire and they will be burned. 7 If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask for whatever you want and it will be done for you. 8 By this is my Father glorified, that you bear much fruit and become my disciples.”
Acts 15:1-6
...some from the party of the Pharisees who had become believers stood up and said, “It is necessary to circumcise them and direct them to observe the Mosaic law.” 6 The Apostles and the presbyters met together to see about this matter.
If we are all set and very sure where we are headed then nothing can stop us from being there. Considering, too that we have a God who has secured a place and our future for us. John 14:1-3, "1 Jesus said to his disciples: “Do not let your hearts be troubled. You have faith in God; have faith also in me. 2 In my Father’s house there are many dwelling places. If there were not, would I have told you that I am going to prepare a place for you? 3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back again and take you to myself, so that where I am you also may be." Nothing or no one can prevent us unless we ourselves decide not to go. The truth is, it's all up to us. Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalm 122:1-2, 3-4ab, 4cd-5
R: Let us go rejoicing to the house of the Lord.
1 I rejoiced because they said to me, “We will go up to the house of the LORD.” 2 And now we have set foot within your gates, O Jerusalem. (R) 3 Jerusalem, built as a city with compact unity. 4 To it the tribes go up, the tribes of the LORD. (R) According to the decree for Israel, to give thanks to the name of the LORD. 5 In it are set up judgment seats, seats for the house of David.
Every tree that bears fruit undergo pruning in order for it to bear more fruit. The same with our lives there are times when we think that we are doing what is pleasing to God but we are still beset with a lot of problems. There seems to be no end to it but we must realize that in order for us to continue and persevere we have to be tested and stand firm in our faith in God. We have to be stimulated constantly in order for us to be always on the go and active for God and inevitably bearing much fruit. Satan, the ruler of this world is taking over by means of his lies and deception. From the very beginning he has no power over Jesus Christ. When he has taken over Judas it was through a lie disguised in a kiss. When Judas lied and said to Jesus, "Is it I, Lord?" he led Jesus to death by deception with a kiss. Satan is still in this world but he has no power over Jesus even when it seemed as if Satan has defeated Jesus. With Pilate's cynicisms when he asked, "What is truth?" and the existing government's inability at that time to protect the innocent. Jesus can have power over us. Satan can have power over us. Will we allow Jesus Christ to have power over us and defeat the role of evil in our life? That decision between good and evil, truth and deception, death and life is ours to make. Do we follow Him or not? Once again, it's all up to us. Amen. Hallelujah!
John 15:1-8
...Remain in me, as I remain in you. Just as a branch cannot bear fruit on its own unless it remains on the vine, so neither can you unless you remain in me. 5 I am the vine, you are the branches. Whoever remains in me and I in him will bear much fruit, because without me you can do nothing. 6 Anyone who does not remain in me will be thrown out like a branch and wither; people will gather them and throw them into a fire and they will be burned. 7 If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask for whatever you want and it will be done for you. 8 By this is my Father glorified, that you bear much fruit and become my disciples.”
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
KEY TO LIFE
I know that God knows best, no matter what our situation is, we should have this persevering faith in God. We need to develop this positive attitude towards the hardships and difficulties that we encounter knowing that they serve as a passport to enter the Kingdom of God. Just thinking of what Paul and the Apostles had to go through in order to spread the Good News should make us realize how blessed we are at this present time when we can fully enjoy the fruits of their labor. We are being fed by the word of God on a silver platter. We need not fear for our lives in the same way that the Apostles experienced as they exercised their faith in God. There were many obstacles and hindrances during their time and yet they were able to carry out their mission and task which still live to this present day. Amen. Hallelujah!
Acts 14:19-28
...They stoned Paul and dragged him out of the city, supposing that he was dead. 20 But when the disciples gathered around him, he got up and entered the city...They strengthened the spirits of the disciples and exhorted them to persevere in the faith, saying, "It is necessary for us to undergo many hardships to enter the kingdom of God."...
they had been commended to the grace of God for the work they had now accomplished...
We are indebted to our great forefathers in the faith, the apostles and his disciples who saw, lived and ate with Jesus and saw Him in the flesh. Their witness and testimony live on to this very day. We owe it to them, the glorious background of our faith that we are now enjoying. Who else could make known to all the glory of God better than these very people who are the friends of God. "Feeling close!" is a common expression among Filipinos whenever we see someone trying to befriend a person and really goes out of his/her way to enter the so called circle of friends of that particular person and sometimes it works but for some it doesn't, simply because of the reason that he or she is not his/her type of friend. It is a consolation to know that God draws near to those who draw near to Him and will not only be "feeling close" but a real friend of God. Wouldn’t we want to be counted and included in God’s circle of friends? Let’s give it our best shot to live it up to this challenge. Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalm 145:10-11, 12-13ab, 21
R: Your friends make known, O Lord, the glorious splendor of your kingdom.
10 Let all your works give you thanks, O LORD, and let your faithful ones bless you. 11 Let them discourse of the glory of your kingdom and speak of your might. (R) 12 Making known to men your might and the glorious splendor of your kingdom. 13 Your kingdom is a kingdom for all ages, and your dominion endures through all generations. (R) 21 May my mouth speak the praise of the LORD, and may all flesh bless his holy name forever and ever.
We may be going through a lot of trials and problems but it doesn't change the fact that He is God. It is a consolation to hear these words being said by Jesus in today's gospel. But at that time when He said this we might have guessed it right if we recognized that there is a sense of stress in the Upper Room among the Apostles. They are tense in their hearts and troubled and is exactly the reason why Jesus said it. The apostles may have been guessing already what's going to happen shortly. He said do not let your hearts be troubled so that they will be protected from despair when persecution comes. He said not to worry, be anxious or afraid like we always do at times or almost always. Though, it doesn't mean that men and women who worry and get anxious have no faith. We are not living in reality if we feel this way. Friends of God are not totally free from worries that trouble the heart. Sometimes we pray to God and still do not eliminate what we are distressed of. We still need to avoid things that we can avoid and do all we can to avoid suffering. We are on this road and journey. We constantly look for the right direction so that we will not get lost. It might have happened to everyone when we are headed for a place we've never been before. We ask directions and somewhere along the road we still get confused and lose our way. This happens when we lose track of it and given the wrong information. We can rest ourselves from worry and trouble because Jesus never leaves us. He is always with us through the Holy Spirit to strengthen, guide and shed light in our path. He personally leads us to show us the way for us not to get lost. He holds us by the hand and sees us through. We might think that when we pray we are doing service to God. We are wrong. Prayer first and foremost is an initiative of God. It is our giving to God the time to bring light and guidance into our lives. What makes life worth living? Jesus is the way, the truth and the life. He is the key to life. This is the kind of life that we should desire but sadly, not often found. What I noticed very much in romantic old movies is the signature characteristic of people hopelessly in love being portrayed in it. This famous line "I never knew what life was until I saw it in your eyes." always form part of the climax of these romantic movies. This should be the fervor and devotion that we ought to give to God. Only Jesus can give us the peace and love amidst all the turmoil surrounding us. It can be compared to the center or eye of a hurricane where there is complete tranquility in the presence of heavy rain, strong winds and heavy waves. Nothing is more uplifting and strengthening than these words of assurance in today's gospel coming from Jesus Himself a true and genuine friend and lover in the real sense of it. Thanks to God. Amen. Hallelujah!
John 14:27-31a
27 Jesus said to his disciples: “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give it to you. Do not let your hearts be troubled or afraid. 28 You heard me tell you, ‘I am going away and I will come back to you.’ If you loved me, you would rejoice that I am going to the Father; for the Father is greater than I. 29 And now I have told you this before it happens, so that when it happens you may believe. 30 I will no longer speak much with you, for the ruler of the world is coming. He has no power over me, 31 but the world must know that I love the Father and that I do just as the Father has commanded me.
Acts 14:19-28
...They stoned Paul and dragged him out of the city, supposing that he was dead. 20 But when the disciples gathered around him, he got up and entered the city...They strengthened the spirits of the disciples and exhorted them to persevere in the faith, saying, "It is necessary for us to undergo many hardships to enter the kingdom of God."...
they had been commended to the grace of God for the work they had now accomplished...
We are indebted to our great forefathers in the faith, the apostles and his disciples who saw, lived and ate with Jesus and saw Him in the flesh. Their witness and testimony live on to this very day. We owe it to them, the glorious background of our faith that we are now enjoying. Who else could make known to all the glory of God better than these very people who are the friends of God. "Feeling close!" is a common expression among Filipinos whenever we see someone trying to befriend a person and really goes out of his/her way to enter the so called circle of friends of that particular person and sometimes it works but for some it doesn't, simply because of the reason that he or she is not his/her type of friend. It is a consolation to know that God draws near to those who draw near to Him and will not only be "feeling close" but a real friend of God. Wouldn’t we want to be counted and included in God’s circle of friends? Let’s give it our best shot to live it up to this challenge. Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalm 145:10-11, 12-13ab, 21
R: Your friends make known, O Lord, the glorious splendor of your kingdom.
10 Let all your works give you thanks, O LORD, and let your faithful ones bless you. 11 Let them discourse of the glory of your kingdom and speak of your might. (R) 12 Making known to men your might and the glorious splendor of your kingdom. 13 Your kingdom is a kingdom for all ages, and your dominion endures through all generations. (R) 21 May my mouth speak the praise of the LORD, and may all flesh bless his holy name forever and ever.
We may be going through a lot of trials and problems but it doesn't change the fact that He is God. It is a consolation to hear these words being said by Jesus in today's gospel. But at that time when He said this we might have guessed it right if we recognized that there is a sense of stress in the Upper Room among the Apostles. They are tense in their hearts and troubled and is exactly the reason why Jesus said it. The apostles may have been guessing already what's going to happen shortly. He said do not let your hearts be troubled so that they will be protected from despair when persecution comes. He said not to worry, be anxious or afraid like we always do at times or almost always. Though, it doesn't mean that men and women who worry and get anxious have no faith. We are not living in reality if we feel this way. Friends of God are not totally free from worries that trouble the heart. Sometimes we pray to God and still do not eliminate what we are distressed of. We still need to avoid things that we can avoid and do all we can to avoid suffering. We are on this road and journey. We constantly look for the right direction so that we will not get lost. It might have happened to everyone when we are headed for a place we've never been before. We ask directions and somewhere along the road we still get confused and lose our way. This happens when we lose track of it and given the wrong information. We can rest ourselves from worry and trouble because Jesus never leaves us. He is always with us through the Holy Spirit to strengthen, guide and shed light in our path. He personally leads us to show us the way for us not to get lost. He holds us by the hand and sees us through. We might think that when we pray we are doing service to God. We are wrong. Prayer first and foremost is an initiative of God. It is our giving to God the time to bring light and guidance into our lives. What makes life worth living? Jesus is the way, the truth and the life. He is the key to life. This is the kind of life that we should desire but sadly, not often found. What I noticed very much in romantic old movies is the signature characteristic of people hopelessly in love being portrayed in it. This famous line "I never knew what life was until I saw it in your eyes." always form part of the climax of these romantic movies. This should be the fervor and devotion that we ought to give to God. Only Jesus can give us the peace and love amidst all the turmoil surrounding us. It can be compared to the center or eye of a hurricane where there is complete tranquility in the presence of heavy rain, strong winds and heavy waves. Nothing is more uplifting and strengthening than these words of assurance in today's gospel coming from Jesus Himself a true and genuine friend and lover in the real sense of it. Thanks to God. Amen. Hallelujah!
John 14:27-31a
27 Jesus said to his disciples: “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give it to you. Do not let your hearts be troubled or afraid. 28 You heard me tell you, ‘I am going away and I will come back to you.’ If you loved me, you would rejoice that I am going to the Father; for the Father is greater than I. 29 And now I have told you this before it happens, so that when it happens you may believe. 30 I will no longer speak much with you, for the ruler of the world is coming. He has no power over me, 31 but the world must know that I love the Father and that I do just as the Father has commanded me.
Monday, May 23, 2011
Keep your focus
There are times when we just have to run away from people who hurt us because we have a greater purpose than entertain those people who continue to bring us down. We have to stay away from people who are toxic to us. Or it could also be a circumstance or situation that pulls us away from our Christ centered goal. We may have encountered such moments even when we are praying which just suddenly popped up from nowhere. We have to immediately dispel it so as not to be out of focus. Today's 1st reading could help jolt us back to reality. We have to realize that there are times when we get sidetracked and tend to be led astray by the influences and pressures of this world we live in. Or we get lured and enticed by the tempting things that the world offers. God is indeed in our midst every single moment and never ceases in reminding and keeping us within the security of His embrace. Amen. Hallelujah!
Acts 14:5-18
...“Men, why are you doing this? We are of the same nature as you, human beings. We proclaim to you good news that you should turn from these idols to the living God, ‘who made heaven and earth and sea and all that is in them.’ 16 In past generations he allowed all Gentiles to go their own ways; 17 yet, in bestowing his goodness, he did not leave himself without witness, for he gave you rains from heaven and fruitful seasons, and filled you with nourishment and gladness for your hearts.” 18 Even with these words, they scarcely restrained the crowds from offering sacrifice to them...
God is very persistent in reminding us not to stray away from the path and persevere in the true faith. Sometimes we associate God with all the nice and wonderful things in our lives which is just right but we should also keep in mind to focus most on the Giver and not on the gift. As the psalm tells us today, “All glory and honor we give to you alone.” Always remind us Lord to keep our feet on the ground for everything comes to us in the name of Jesus. Amen. Hallelujah!
P S A L M
Psalm 115:1-2. 3-4. 15-16
R: Not to us, O Lord, but to your name give the glory.
...Why should the pagans say, “Where is their God?” (R) 3 Our God is in heaven; whatever he wills, he does. 4 Their idols are silver and gold, the handiwork of men...
How does our God love? Immeasurable, unimaginable and indescribable. How can we not love Him back? God's words in today's gospel is an assurance that we can always depend on Him whatever situations we have right now. He is always with us and will never leave us provided we keep His word. Amen. Hallelujah!
John 14:21-26
...“Whoever loves me will keep my word, and my Father will love him, and we will come to him and make our dwelling with him...
Acts 14:5-18
...“Men, why are you doing this? We are of the same nature as you, human beings. We proclaim to you good news that you should turn from these idols to the living God, ‘who made heaven and earth and sea and all that is in them.’ 16 In past generations he allowed all Gentiles to go their own ways; 17 yet, in bestowing his goodness, he did not leave himself without witness, for he gave you rains from heaven and fruitful seasons, and filled you with nourishment and gladness for your hearts.” 18 Even with these words, they scarcely restrained the crowds from offering sacrifice to them...
God is very persistent in reminding us not to stray away from the path and persevere in the true faith. Sometimes we associate God with all the nice and wonderful things in our lives which is just right but we should also keep in mind to focus most on the Giver and not on the gift. As the psalm tells us today, “All glory and honor we give to you alone.” Always remind us Lord to keep our feet on the ground for everything comes to us in the name of Jesus. Amen. Hallelujah!
P S A L M
Psalm 115:1-2. 3-4. 15-16
R: Not to us, O Lord, but to your name give the glory.
...Why should the pagans say, “Where is their God?” (R) 3 Our God is in heaven; whatever he wills, he does. 4 Their idols are silver and gold, the handiwork of men...
How does our God love? Immeasurable, unimaginable and indescribable. How can we not love Him back? God's words in today's gospel is an assurance that we can always depend on Him whatever situations we have right now. He is always with us and will never leave us provided we keep His word. Amen. Hallelujah!
John 14:21-26
...“Whoever loves me will keep my word, and my Father will love him, and we will come to him and make our dwelling with him...
Sunday, May 22, 2011
TOP PRIORITY
There are many distractions all around us. Whether we admit or not, we too succumb to it and sometimes fail to act in accordance to what is right. We need to know what our priorities are in life. It is of prime importance that we know what needs to be on top of our list because everything else will come second and just trail behind. What we focus on grows. Today's 1st reading leaves us with a very important word of advice that we really ought to take seriously and act on. Amen. Hallelujah!
Acts 6:1-7
...the Twelve called together the community of the disciples and said, “It is not right for us to neglect the word of God to serve at table. 3 Brothers, select from among you seven reputable men, filled with the Spirit and wisdom, whom we shall appoint to this task, 4 whereas we shall devote ourselves to prayer and to the ministry of the word.”
If we always focus on the Lord and put His words in our presence at all times then we can be assured that we have a lamp unto our feet that is lighting our path. We have to entrust all our cares and worries to the Lord for He can do better things for our lives than all our works combined. Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalm 33:1-2, 4-5, 18-19
R: Lord, let your mercy be on us, as we place our trust in you.
...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) 18 See, the eyes of the LORD are upon those who fear him, upon those who hope for his kindness, 19 to deliver them from death and preserve them in spite of famine...
Believe, believe and believe! It has been the constant message of God to us. Amen. Hallelujah!
1Peter 2:4-9
..."Behold, I am laying a stone in Zion, a cornerstone, chosen and precious, and whoever believes in it shall not be put to shame."...
There are times when we speak words that we don't really mean or speak words out of anger, desperation and any other strong emotion which can cloud our judgment. Let us always be reminded that our words are powerful and we should have a conscious effort to mirror God in us by always speaking in behalf of our Father in heaven, amen.
John 14: 1-12
...The words that I speak to you I do not speak on my own. The Father
who dwells in me is doing his works...
Acts 6:1-7
...the Twelve called together the community of the disciples and said, “It is not right for us to neglect the word of God to serve at table. 3 Brothers, select from among you seven reputable men, filled with the Spirit and wisdom, whom we shall appoint to this task, 4 whereas we shall devote ourselves to prayer and to the ministry of the word.”
If we always focus on the Lord and put His words in our presence at all times then we can be assured that we have a lamp unto our feet that is lighting our path. We have to entrust all our cares and worries to the Lord for He can do better things for our lives than all our works combined. Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalm 33:1-2, 4-5, 18-19
R: Lord, let your mercy be on us, as we place our trust in you.
...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) 18 See, the eyes of the LORD are upon those who fear him, upon those who hope for his kindness, 19 to deliver them from death and preserve them in spite of famine...
Believe, believe and believe! It has been the constant message of God to us. Amen. Hallelujah!
1Peter 2:4-9
..."Behold, I am laying a stone in Zion, a cornerstone, chosen and precious, and whoever believes in it shall not be put to shame."...
There are times when we speak words that we don't really mean or speak words out of anger, desperation and any other strong emotion which can cloud our judgment. Let us always be reminded that our words are powerful and we should have a conscious effort to mirror God in us by always speaking in behalf of our Father in heaven, amen.
John 14: 1-12
...The words that I speak to you I do not speak on my own. The Father
who dwells in me is doing his works...
Saturday, May 21, 2011
HARD TO GET
It doesn't mean that if we are friends of Christ we are totally free from life's difficulties and trials. There are still times when we are tensed and our hearts are troubled. We still worry, become anxious and afraid because we live in this reality. We should accept the fact, that just like Paul and Barnabas in today's 1st reading, who worked hard to spread the Good News they were still susceptible to the violence of this world. We can strive to avoid suffering but there is nothing we can do to eliminate it altogether. We can not prevent events that cause this. We still have trouble in our hearts. No one is capable of doing this only God who became man and entered this world. But let us not forget that even Jesus, the Son of God, who is true God and true Man was greatly distressed and troubled at the Garden of Gethsemane (Luke 22:42-44) He prayed to God, "Father if Thou be willing remove this cup from me nevertheless not My will but Thine be done." When we pray to God this does not eliminate either what we are distressed of. We pray but still go through our mini passion. In the light of these things we ought to remember always that evil and death has no power over us because Jesus is resurrected. Whoever has God lacks nothing, He alone suffices. God will always prioritize us, His people but if we are stubborn and doesn't want to listen then we forfeit our price. Have you ever experienced your name or raffle ticket being called out in a draw and you forfeited your price because you weren't there, you weren't patient in waiting or you just decided that it would be better for you to just leave. Let us keep in mind that the price of eternal life is worth all our time and treasure. No one is excluded from the gift of eternal life. Everybody is given the same privilege as were given to the chosen people of God. God is fair and just in all His ways. All we need to do is respond in the way that the Gentiles did in today's 1st reading instead of reject it like what most of the Jews did. If we've really come to believe then we should also work to spread the Word of God. No one should ever claim that they haven't heard or known about God since it is our prime duty to spread and make it known throughout the whole world. Amen. Hallelujah!
Acts 13:44-52
44 On the following sabbath almost the whole city gathered to hear the word of the Lord. 45 When the Jews saw the crowds, they were filled with jealousy and with violent abuse contradicted what Paul said. 46 Both Paul and Barnabas spoke out boldly and said, “It was necessary that the word of God be spoken to you first, but since you reject it and condemn ourselves as unworthy of eternal life, we now turn to the Gentiles...The Gentiles were delighted when they heard this and glorified the word of the Lord. All who were destined for eternal life came to believe, 49 and the word of the Lord continued to spread through the whole region...
We have to trust, hope and rely on God rather than our own power. Let's face it we sometimes rely too much on ourselves and too little on God. We are troubled about a lot of things when sometimes there's really no cause for it. There are levels of anxiety. Exaggerated anxiety and discouragement are one of the greatest obstacles to holiness. There is a level of anxiety that we just have to trust in God's Grace and Goodness. We should not disturb our inner peace not even momentarily. Life on earth is a great struggle indeed for God's Kingdom. A lot of things can bother and bring us down but we do not have to stay that way. We have to exercise our minds and wills to put our confidence in God. He is the one whom we can totally trust and depend on to save us. God's faithfulness and steadfast love know no boundaries. These compelled me to write daily personal reflections of the readings which I consider as my love letters to the Lord. I can still remember the time when I used to write letters to my close friends. There was one friend of mine whom I exchange letters as often as every week considering that there was no e mail yet and had to send it through the post office. I am sure that we both anticipated the coming of the mailman every single day and has made the bond of our friendship stronger. We should hope to move toward that goal in our relationship with God. Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalm 98:1, 2-3ab, 3cd-4
R: All the ends of the earth have seen the saving power of God.
1 Sing to the LORD a new song, for he has done wondrous deeds; his right hand has won victory for him, his holy arm. (R) 2 The LORD has made his salvation known in the sight of the nations he has revealed his justice. 3 He has remembered his kindness and his faithfulness toward the house of Israel. (R) All the ends of the earth have seen the salvation by our God. 4 Sing joyfully to the LORD, all you lands; break into song; sing praise.
If we are just to make sense of everything that goes on around us each and every single day then we can never be far away nor get lost in this reality that Jesus is telling us in today's gospel. It is undeniable what God has done for all of us from the dawn of man to this present age of modern civilization. Let us not continue to be negligent, mindless, thoughtless, careless and apathetic of the truth in the gospel that the Church is teaching us. Until when will we remain deaf and blind to all of these things that have been for a long time being conveyed to us from time immemorial, from the time of Abraham, Jacob, Moses, the Judges, the Kings, the Prophets, in exile until the return and ultimately to the time of Jesus more than 2,000 years ago when God did the unimaginable and stooped down to become man. The bible itself speaks for the long span of time that God has been trying to lure us into an intimate relationship with Him. Are we really that dumb not to see all of these and remain unaffected by this astounding truth? Can we afford to play hard to get with God, who is as irresistible as He is. The time to enter into that relationship is now, not later nor tomorrow. Let us not waste any more of the precious time we still have in our hands. Amen. Hallelujah!
John 14:7-14
...Believe me that I am in the Father and the Father is in me, or else, believe because of the works themselves. 12 Amen, amen, I say to you, whoever believes in me will do the works that I do, and will do greater ones than these, because I am going to the Father. 13 And whatever you ask in my name, I will do, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son. 14 If you ask anything of me in my name, I will do it.”
Acts 13:44-52
44 On the following sabbath almost the whole city gathered to hear the word of the Lord. 45 When the Jews saw the crowds, they were filled with jealousy and with violent abuse contradicted what Paul said. 46 Both Paul and Barnabas spoke out boldly and said, “It was necessary that the word of God be spoken to you first, but since you reject it and condemn ourselves as unworthy of eternal life, we now turn to the Gentiles...The Gentiles were delighted when they heard this and glorified the word of the Lord. All who were destined for eternal life came to believe, 49 and the word of the Lord continued to spread through the whole region...
We have to trust, hope and rely on God rather than our own power. Let's face it we sometimes rely too much on ourselves and too little on God. We are troubled about a lot of things when sometimes there's really no cause for it. There are levels of anxiety. Exaggerated anxiety and discouragement are one of the greatest obstacles to holiness. There is a level of anxiety that we just have to trust in God's Grace and Goodness. We should not disturb our inner peace not even momentarily. Life on earth is a great struggle indeed for God's Kingdom. A lot of things can bother and bring us down but we do not have to stay that way. We have to exercise our minds and wills to put our confidence in God. He is the one whom we can totally trust and depend on to save us. God's faithfulness and steadfast love know no boundaries. These compelled me to write daily personal reflections of the readings which I consider as my love letters to the Lord. I can still remember the time when I used to write letters to my close friends. There was one friend of mine whom I exchange letters as often as every week considering that there was no e mail yet and had to send it through the post office. I am sure that we both anticipated the coming of the mailman every single day and has made the bond of our friendship stronger. We should hope to move toward that goal in our relationship with God. Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalm 98:1, 2-3ab, 3cd-4
R: All the ends of the earth have seen the saving power of God.
1 Sing to the LORD a new song, for he has done wondrous deeds; his right hand has won victory for him, his holy arm. (R) 2 The LORD has made his salvation known in the sight of the nations he has revealed his justice. 3 He has remembered his kindness and his faithfulness toward the house of Israel. (R) All the ends of the earth have seen the salvation by our God. 4 Sing joyfully to the LORD, all you lands; break into song; sing praise.
If we are just to make sense of everything that goes on around us each and every single day then we can never be far away nor get lost in this reality that Jesus is telling us in today's gospel. It is undeniable what God has done for all of us from the dawn of man to this present age of modern civilization. Let us not continue to be negligent, mindless, thoughtless, careless and apathetic of the truth in the gospel that the Church is teaching us. Until when will we remain deaf and blind to all of these things that have been for a long time being conveyed to us from time immemorial, from the time of Abraham, Jacob, Moses, the Judges, the Kings, the Prophets, in exile until the return and ultimately to the time of Jesus more than 2,000 years ago when God did the unimaginable and stooped down to become man. The bible itself speaks for the long span of time that God has been trying to lure us into an intimate relationship with Him. Are we really that dumb not to see all of these and remain unaffected by this astounding truth? Can we afford to play hard to get with God, who is as irresistible as He is. The time to enter into that relationship is now, not later nor tomorrow. Let us not waste any more of the precious time we still have in our hands. Amen. Hallelujah!
John 14:7-14
...Believe me that I am in the Father and the Father is in me, or else, believe because of the works themselves. 12 Amen, amen, I say to you, whoever believes in me will do the works that I do, and will do greater ones than these, because I am going to the Father. 13 And whatever you ask in my name, I will do, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son. 14 If you ask anything of me in my name, I will do it.”
Friday, May 20, 2011
IT’S ONE OR THE OTHER
The promise of God will always press on to fulfillment. We are God's child. This is a reality that we should be aware of at all times. This truth allows us to build within our souls a refuge that no storm or tribulation could ever disturb. It serves as a room into which we can be alone with God and find peace as we maintain communication and a life of prayer. Sometimes we tend to forget this life giving truth that we are God's child. We go to mass daily and go through the routine and rituals of our Christian life. But as soon as it is over, we go out to the world and confront the daily anxieties and chaos around us we immediately find ourselves throwing God out of the window. There is to be this constant place within us that we could find serenity deep in our hearts and experience the peace that comes from the Lord. Amen. Hallelujah!
Acts 13:26-33
...We ourselves are proclaiming this good news to you that what God promised our ancestors 33 he has brought to fulfillment for us, their children, by raising up Jesus, as it is written in the second psalm, ‘You are my son; this day I have begotten you.’”
Remove all traces of fear and doubt for our God is able. This reality in today's psalm should not leave our consciousness every waking moment of our lives. Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalm 2:6-7, 8-9, 10-11ab
R: You are my Son; this day I have begotten you.
...“Ask of me and I will give you the nations for an inheritance and the ends of the earth for your possession. 9 You shall rule them with an iron rod; you shall shatter them like an earthen dish.” (R) 10 And now, O kings, give heed; take warning, you rulers of the earth. 11 Serve the LORD with fear, and rejoice before him; with trembling rejoice.
I thank God for all the people He sends my way and uses to be instruments of His love, care and concern. These past few days have been very significant because of the special circumstances and events that made possible for sisters in our community to get together and bond as a family of God. It is like a constant reminder of this bible verse in today's gospel and assurance that He is always in control and in charge. Today's gospel is a consoling truth for us who believes in Jesus, the Son of God. For those who do not, then life would all be meaningless in the end. If this present life that we have in this world is the only thing we hold on to then we are the most pathetic people ever known. There is a great schism going on daily within our midst, of people who know, believe and live the truth and those who do not. Those who are in between do not exist or are considered gone as the Lord said in Revelation 3:16, "So, because you are lukewarm, neither hot nor cold, I will spit you out of my mouth." It's one or the other. I just hope that all of us have a clear, genuine and broad understanding of this mind blowing but awesome reality and live it in our lives. Amen. Hallelujah!
John 14:1-6
1 Jesus said to his disciples: “Do not let your hearts be troubled. You have faith in God; have faith also in me. 2 In my Father’s house there are many dwelling places. If there were not, would I have told you that I am going to prepare a place for you? 3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back again and take you to myself, so that where I am you also may be. 4 Where I am going you know the way.” 5 Thomas said to him, “Master, we do not know where you are going; how can we know the way?” 6 Jesus said to him, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”
Acts 13:26-33
...We ourselves are proclaiming this good news to you that what God promised our ancestors 33 he has brought to fulfillment for us, their children, by raising up Jesus, as it is written in the second psalm, ‘You are my son; this day I have begotten you.’”
Remove all traces of fear and doubt for our God is able. This reality in today's psalm should not leave our consciousness every waking moment of our lives. Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalm 2:6-7, 8-9, 10-11ab
R: You are my Son; this day I have begotten you.
...“Ask of me and I will give you the nations for an inheritance and the ends of the earth for your possession. 9 You shall rule them with an iron rod; you shall shatter them like an earthen dish.” (R) 10 And now, O kings, give heed; take warning, you rulers of the earth. 11 Serve the LORD with fear, and rejoice before him; with trembling rejoice.
I thank God for all the people He sends my way and uses to be instruments of His love, care and concern. These past few days have been very significant because of the special circumstances and events that made possible for sisters in our community to get together and bond as a family of God. It is like a constant reminder of this bible verse in today's gospel and assurance that He is always in control and in charge. Today's gospel is a consoling truth for us who believes in Jesus, the Son of God. For those who do not, then life would all be meaningless in the end. If this present life that we have in this world is the only thing we hold on to then we are the most pathetic people ever known. There is a great schism going on daily within our midst, of people who know, believe and live the truth and those who do not. Those who are in between do not exist or are considered gone as the Lord said in Revelation 3:16, "So, because you are lukewarm, neither hot nor cold, I will spit you out of my mouth." It's one or the other. I just hope that all of us have a clear, genuine and broad understanding of this mind blowing but awesome reality and live it in our lives. Amen. Hallelujah!
John 14:1-6
1 Jesus said to his disciples: “Do not let your hearts be troubled. You have faith in God; have faith also in me. 2 In my Father’s house there are many dwelling places. If there were not, would I have told you that I am going to prepare a place for you? 3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back again and take you to myself, so that where I am you also may be. 4 Where I am going you know the way.” 5 Thomas said to him, “Master, we do not know where you are going; how can we know the way?” 6 Jesus said to him, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”
Thursday, May 19, 2011
THE EXTERNALS
God had it all prefigured. God's promise to King David that from His descendants will come forth a Savior who is to rule the world was fulfilled when our Blessed Virgin Mary accepted God's plan. At the time when the Angel Gabriel announced to her that she will bear Jesus, the Son of God she just surrendered her will to God. It was not an easy decision for her at that time but she trusted God completely. She may not have understood everything but she entered into that deep trust in God and believed. It was a decision not merely based on some vague feeling or a pleasant emotion that makes people good when times are good. Thus the title "Seat of Wisdom" perfectly fits her. Our Lady not only does the normal part of loving. She is filled by the love of her Son that is given to her in very extraordinary circumstances. Not by a normal birth and conception before marriage. She conceived in her womb the Son of God and with that conception is a God sent promise. Her motherhood goes beyond the normal sufferings that any mother experiences. She traveled to Bethlehem in her pregnancy, was refused of a place to stay and gave birth in a manger. She had to give up a home and went into exile in Egypt. She continues to believe in that Son of hers, the Son of God as He perplexed her. In the finding of Jesus in the temple, when she heard the words of Simeon in the Presentation,"...a sword will pierce your heart..." The wedding in Cana when she said, "Do whatever He tells you". She stored and kept it in her heart although she did not understand everything. She loved and continued to believe until she saw and heard the mocking words addressed to her Son during the scourging and the crowning with thorns until she stood at the foot of the cross. That was not what's in her mind when the Angel Gabriel appeared to her to inherit the throne of King David. At the foot of the cross she was given a sad substitute in St. John when told, "Mother, behold your son" She accepts that and enters into an experience of charity and suffering. Normally a person would fight back to those who hurt our children. It is a normal reaction if we see others harm our child. Jesus truly became flesh in the womb of Mary. We have to take the reality of the choice that Mary made, the reality of the incarnation. What we need is true devotion to Mary that brings us close to God. We look through the gospel and see the dividing line whether we accept or reject it. We have to recreate and enter into that Incarnation without over spiritualizing or rejecting it which brings us away from God. Some Catholics has the temptation of being accustomed like the people of Nazareth. They grew up with Jesus and Mary as part of their environment but never live it seriously. Sometimes we become overly familiar. We become horrible hypocrites. Our devotion to Mary turns out to be a skirt where we can hide in. We claim to be on a pilgrimage with Mary but it makes no impact in our lives. We never understand the suffering of Christ. We misuse the scapular but continue to live our sinful behavior. The scapular should be worn as if we are putting on the yoke of Christ. The externals of this devotion becomes a block when we fail to understand and live the charity that Mary did. Let us be careful that everything we do is not just superficial. We have to enter into the love of Mary in which she felt the love of Jesus in what He did for us to redeem us. Bring us to a deeper love of Christ our Lord and look at Jesus through her perspective and love. Let us follow the example of Mary, from that joyful moment of the annunciation as she fulfilled the promise of God to the throne of King David to the sorrowful sight of her only Son as she stood at foot of the cross and ultimately to the glorious resurrection. The bible passages from the Old Testament down to the New Testament are all confirmed and fulfilled. It proves that God has great plans for all of us laid out even before we came to be. One of the most important things that we need to fulfill is found in today's 1st reading which is to be "a man after God's own heart and carry out His every wish" It's not that difficult after all if we'll keep on focusing on our Savior, Jesus, who have won for us our salvation. Amen. Hallelujah!
Amen. Hallelujah!
Acts 13:13-25
...‘I have found David, son of Jesse, a man after my own heart; he will carry out my every wish.’ 23 From this man’s descendants God, according to his promise, has brought to Israel a savior, Jesus....
Our God is a God of the past, present and future. He knows everything and nothing is hidden from Him. With this in mind we can be confident that we are always under His mighty and loving care. He had it all figured out even from thousands of generations that have passed, to the present time and the coming days. Amen. Hallelujah!
P S A L M
Psalm 89:2-3. 21-22. 25 and 27
R: For ever I will sing the goodness of the Lord.
...For you have said, “My kindness is established forever”; in heaven you have confirmed your faithfulness20 [21] “I have found David, my servant; with my holy oil I have anointed him, 21 [22] that my hand may be always with him, and that my arm may make him strong.” (R) 24 [25] My faithfulness and my kindness shall be with him, ...
There are some things that we knew even before it happened, some call it gut feeling. Why is this so? For He is God who knows our past, present and future. We should always remember, He is a considerate God who care for our feelings and longings. The only problem is that even if it's right before our very eyes we sometimes don't see it. We are too preoccupied, all we have to do is be very attentive and focus on God's goodness and divine providence. God deemed it so that all the messages proclaimed by the prophets from of old have come to pass and were fulfilled. Sometimes we go through difficult times and the future seem so dark and dreadful. Whenever this happens let us not forget and always remember the promises that He has long ago planted in our hearts and never lose hope in a God who is able, the great I AM. Amen. Hallelujah!
Holy Gospel of Jesus Christ according to Saint John 13,16-20.
...If you understand this, blessed are you if you do it. 18 I am not speaking of all of you. I know those whom I have chosen. But so that the scripture might be fulfilled,.. From now on I am telling you before it happens, so that when it happens you may believe that I AM...
Amen. Hallelujah!
Acts 13:13-25
...‘I have found David, son of Jesse, a man after my own heart; he will carry out my every wish.’ 23 From this man’s descendants God, according to his promise, has brought to Israel a savior, Jesus....
Our God is a God of the past, present and future. He knows everything and nothing is hidden from Him. With this in mind we can be confident that we are always under His mighty and loving care. He had it all figured out even from thousands of generations that have passed, to the present time and the coming days. Amen. Hallelujah!
P S A L M
Psalm 89:2-3. 21-22. 25 and 27
R: For ever I will sing the goodness of the Lord.
...For you have said, “My kindness is established forever”; in heaven you have confirmed your faithfulness20 [21] “I have found David, my servant; with my holy oil I have anointed him, 21 [22] that my hand may be always with him, and that my arm may make him strong.” (R) 24 [25] My faithfulness and my kindness shall be with him, ...
There are some things that we knew even before it happened, some call it gut feeling. Why is this so? For He is God who knows our past, present and future. We should always remember, He is a considerate God who care for our feelings and longings. The only problem is that even if it's right before our very eyes we sometimes don't see it. We are too preoccupied, all we have to do is be very attentive and focus on God's goodness and divine providence. God deemed it so that all the messages proclaimed by the prophets from of old have come to pass and were fulfilled. Sometimes we go through difficult times and the future seem so dark and dreadful. Whenever this happens let us not forget and always remember the promises that He has long ago planted in our hearts and never lose hope in a God who is able, the great I AM. Amen. Hallelujah!
Holy Gospel of Jesus Christ according to Saint John 13,16-20.
...If you understand this, blessed are you if you do it. 18 I am not speaking of all of you. I know those whom I have chosen. But so that the scripture might be fulfilled,.. From now on I am telling you before it happens, so that when it happens you may believe that I AM...
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
FREEDOM
Strike the shepherd and the sheep will be scattered. It's a good thing we have a Good Shepherd in the Lord Jesus who never fails. If He is our Shepherd then that is very consoling. If we look closely around us we can still find good shepherds among us who continue the work of God tirelessly. I am so grateful for the EWTN channel and the people behind it who continue to keep it running. I should say it has become a fold where the people of God can come for shelter and comfort. I believe that we are set apart from the very beginning even before we were born for a specific mission in life. There are times when we feel useless and unworthy when we do not measure up to the accepted truths, perceived and set criteria or popular opinion of the majority but no matter how great or small, significant or insignificant it may seem we must not hesitate to do it. For as long as we've committed to doing and fulfilling it then it becomes an offering of ourselves. Let us take time to spend it on things that give glory to God. The power of praying and fasting stood the test of time. The early christians were practicing it already as they gathered in order to receive guidance and direction from God. Let us make this very first statement in today's 1st reading our main reason and goal to achieve. Amen. Hallelujah!
Acts 12:24 -13:5a
The word of God continued to spread and grow...“Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.”...
We can give glory and praise to God right from where we are. All we have to do is be faithful to the One and True God. We may not be living in that time of the Maccabees when the Jews were forced to embrace pagan practices. It was at that time when the ruler of the land wanted to eliminate Jewish tradition and replace it with Greek. When they failed to carry this out, Greek ways were imposed by force. This was at the time before Jesus came when Jerusalem was torn down. Anyone who owns a Torah and those who circumcise their children were sentenced to capital punishment. It was period of great struggle and difficulty. A man named Judas Maccabeus became the leader of a Jewish revolt against the repressive policies of Antiochus IV Epiphanes, the king of Syria. He led the Jewish people in recapturing their temple from Syrian occupying forces in 164 B.C. preventing the imposition of Hellenism upon Judaea, and preserving the Jewish religion. Those who followed him arose and won in their struggle. The temple was reclaimed and purified from the stain of idolatry. Thus the institution of the Hanukkah, when the temple was rededicated. We have to maintain our fidelity to the Lord. It is in doing this that we truly attain freedom by following and staying in the way of the Lord. We need a Helper in the person of God the Holy Spirit. The Spirit dwelling within us should be unleashed in order to dispel all kinds of darkness in order to see God's face shining upon us. Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalm 67:2-3, 5, 6, 8
R: O God, let all the nations praise you!
May God have pity on us and bless us; may he let his face shine upon us. 2 [3] So may your way be known upon earth; among all nations, your salvation...
Are you afraid of the dark? I often hear people say and warn others to stay away from the dark. A lot of terrible things happen in the dark that we should always stay under the protecting and guiding light of Jesus. Pagan altars may not be in our midst anymore unlike in those days of the Maccabees. But we have to guard ourselves from this masquerade of these seemingly valid laws and policies against human life. We have to resist it and try to remove this culture of death that has gripped the human race. We have to resist the idea that degrades human life. Our helpless brothers and sisters in the womb are being slaughtered by the millions every day. Abortion has to end. People are being torn apart by the abortion industry. We have to stand up for these rights that are being trampled upon. We can only attain freedom when we serve and do the right thing. We have to be Pro-Life. All these things and efforts make sense only if we are able to stand up for these rights. All people are equal and no one is less than others. Let us not remain in this cloud of deception that segregates, classifies and downgrades people of who we really are. Freedom from this lie is for everyone not only for those who has done what is right but also for those who did wrong as we aim to follow Jesus to eternal life. Amen. Hallelujah!
John 12:44-50
44 Jesus cried out and said: “Whoever believes in me believes not only in me but also in the one who sent me, 45 and whoever sees me sees the one who sent me. 46 I came into the world as light, so that everyone who believes in me might not remain in darkness. 47 And if anyone hears my words and does not observe them, I do not condemn him, for I did not come to condemn the world but to save the world. 48 Whoever rejects me and does not accept my words has something to judge him: the word that I spoke, it will condemn him on the last day, 49 because I did not speak on my own, but the Father who sent me commanded me what to say and speak. 50 And I know that his commandment is eternal life. So what I say, I say as the Father told me.”
Acts 12:24 -13:5a
The word of God continued to spread and grow...“Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.”...
We can give glory and praise to God right from where we are. All we have to do is be faithful to the One and True God. We may not be living in that time of the Maccabees when the Jews were forced to embrace pagan practices. It was at that time when the ruler of the land wanted to eliminate Jewish tradition and replace it with Greek. When they failed to carry this out, Greek ways were imposed by force. This was at the time before Jesus came when Jerusalem was torn down. Anyone who owns a Torah and those who circumcise their children were sentenced to capital punishment. It was period of great struggle and difficulty. A man named Judas Maccabeus became the leader of a Jewish revolt against the repressive policies of Antiochus IV Epiphanes, the king of Syria. He led the Jewish people in recapturing their temple from Syrian occupying forces in 164 B.C. preventing the imposition of Hellenism upon Judaea, and preserving the Jewish religion. Those who followed him arose and won in their struggle. The temple was reclaimed and purified from the stain of idolatry. Thus the institution of the Hanukkah, when the temple was rededicated. We have to maintain our fidelity to the Lord. It is in doing this that we truly attain freedom by following and staying in the way of the Lord. We need a Helper in the person of God the Holy Spirit. The Spirit dwelling within us should be unleashed in order to dispel all kinds of darkness in order to see God's face shining upon us. Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalm 67:2-3, 5, 6, 8
R: O God, let all the nations praise you!
May God have pity on us and bless us; may he let his face shine upon us. 2 [3] So may your way be known upon earth; among all nations, your salvation...
Are you afraid of the dark? I often hear people say and warn others to stay away from the dark. A lot of terrible things happen in the dark that we should always stay under the protecting and guiding light of Jesus. Pagan altars may not be in our midst anymore unlike in those days of the Maccabees. But we have to guard ourselves from this masquerade of these seemingly valid laws and policies against human life. We have to resist it and try to remove this culture of death that has gripped the human race. We have to resist the idea that degrades human life. Our helpless brothers and sisters in the womb are being slaughtered by the millions every day. Abortion has to end. People are being torn apart by the abortion industry. We have to stand up for these rights that are being trampled upon. We can only attain freedom when we serve and do the right thing. We have to be Pro-Life. All these things and efforts make sense only if we are able to stand up for these rights. All people are equal and no one is less than others. Let us not remain in this cloud of deception that segregates, classifies and downgrades people of who we really are. Freedom from this lie is for everyone not only for those who has done what is right but also for those who did wrong as we aim to follow Jesus to eternal life. Amen. Hallelujah!
John 12:44-50
44 Jesus cried out and said: “Whoever believes in me believes not only in me but also in the one who sent me, 45 and whoever sees me sees the one who sent me. 46 I came into the world as light, so that everyone who believes in me might not remain in darkness. 47 And if anyone hears my words and does not observe them, I do not condemn him, for I did not come to condemn the world but to save the world. 48 Whoever rejects me and does not accept my words has something to judge him: the word that I spoke, it will condemn him on the last day, 49 because I did not speak on my own, but the Father who sent me commanded me what to say and speak. 50 And I know that his commandment is eternal life. So what I say, I say as the Father told me.”
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
MI LADIES
This coming Saturday the MI (Militia Immaculata) ladies are going to meet for a special gathering for mothers sponsored by 2 generous sisters of the group. Everyone would take time out to be part of this exciting event which is always an opportunity to gather as a people of God in prayer but also an occasion for wholesome fun, joy and happiness.
Upon reading today's 1st reading it just struck me that I can compare this group to the early church in Jerusalem and the first Christians in Antioch. You know why? There is always a spirit of rejoicing and encouragement every time there is an MI Block Rosary gathering. It is like giving us a vivid picture of how the first Christians were during that time. Amen. Hallelujah!
Acts of the Apostles 11,19-26.
...The news about them reached the ears of the church in Jerusalem, and they sent Barnabas (to go) to Antioch.
When he arrived and saw the grace of God, he rejoiced and encouraged them all to remain faithful to the Lord in firmness of heart,
for he was a good man, filled with the holy Spirit and faith...For a whole year they met with the church and taught a large number of people, and it was in Antioch that the disciples were first called Christians...
It is just overwhelming whenever people meet as one family of God during occasions like these. It feels good to be always reminded of how each member of a community should commit and encourage one another as brothers and sisters in Christ. Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalms 87(86),1-3.4-5.6-7.
...The LORD loves the city founded on holy mountains,
Loves the gates of Zion more than any dwelling in Jacob.
Glorious things are said of you, O city of God!...
Sometimes we hear so many voices, not that we've become schizo... but because we do not concentrate or focus on which voice to listen to and end up distracted. Have you ever experienced getting two different opinions at the same time and feel at a loss. There's nothing to worry about for as long as we've become accustomed to God's voice then we will surely distinguish it from the nuisances. Especially when God's heart and your heart have become hearts beating as one. No one can snatch us away from God's strong and caring hands. If we are confident in this truth and really believe this then there is no more room for us to fret and be anxious for we are under His care, safe and secure. Amen. Hallelujah!
Holy Gospel of Jesus Christ according to Saint John 10,22-30.
...My sheep hear my voice; I know them, and they follow me.
I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish...
Upon reading today's 1st reading it just struck me that I can compare this group to the early church in Jerusalem and the first Christians in Antioch. You know why? There is always a spirit of rejoicing and encouragement every time there is an MI Block Rosary gathering. It is like giving us a vivid picture of how the first Christians were during that time. Amen. Hallelujah!
Acts of the Apostles 11,19-26.
...The news about them reached the ears of the church in Jerusalem, and they sent Barnabas (to go) to Antioch.
When he arrived and saw the grace of God, he rejoiced and encouraged them all to remain faithful to the Lord in firmness of heart,
for he was a good man, filled with the holy Spirit and faith...For a whole year they met with the church and taught a large number of people, and it was in Antioch that the disciples were first called Christians...
It is just overwhelming whenever people meet as one family of God during occasions like these. It feels good to be always reminded of how each member of a community should commit and encourage one another as brothers and sisters in Christ. Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalms 87(86),1-3.4-5.6-7.
...The LORD loves the city founded on holy mountains,
Loves the gates of Zion more than any dwelling in Jacob.
Glorious things are said of you, O city of God!...
Sometimes we hear so many voices, not that we've become schizo... but because we do not concentrate or focus on which voice to listen to and end up distracted. Have you ever experienced getting two different opinions at the same time and feel at a loss. There's nothing to worry about for as long as we've become accustomed to God's voice then we will surely distinguish it from the nuisances. Especially when God's heart and your heart have become hearts beating as one. No one can snatch us away from God's strong and caring hands. If we are confident in this truth and really believe this then there is no more room for us to fret and be anxious for we are under His care, safe and secure. Amen. Hallelujah!
Holy Gospel of Jesus Christ according to Saint John 10,22-30.
...My sheep hear my voice; I know them, and they follow me.
I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish...
Monday, May 16, 2011
HIRED HAND
God's gift of salvation is not exclusive to only a few, it is open to all. Let us broaden our perspective with regards to this and always extend a welcoming spirit to everyone regardless of who they are. God's forgiveness and salvation is not exclusive to a selected few but is given to all. We do not have to belong to a particular race. We have all been qualified by God Himself. God's love is open to all. We are expected to extend this same love to our brothers and sisters regardless of race and culture. Oftentimes we are guilty of discriminating whenever we come in contact with people who are different so to speak or those who do not conform to our standards. Whether we admit it or not we are all guilty of this and we should follow Peter's example of acknowledging God's universal love to all of us. Amen. Hallelujah!
Acts 11:1-18
...‘What God has made clean, you are not to call profane.’ ...If then God gave them the same gift he gave to us when we came to believe in the Lord Jesus Christ, who was I to be able to hinder God?” 18 When they heard this, they stopped objecting and glorified God, saying, “God has then granted life-giving repentance to the Gentiles, too.”
May all our basic instincts be rooted from our longing for God. Only in God can we find true satisfaction. Him alone can quench the thirst of our soul. Whenever I hear the song which has the same thought as the psalm reading for today I always imagine and picture a deer panting and drinking water in the stream. This kind of longing and thirst we have all experienced one way or another in our lifetime whether it be physical, mental, emotional or spiritual. We may search long and hard but find none that can fully satisfy if we fail to recognize the rivers of Living Water which only God can give and provide. Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalm 42:2-3; 43:3-4
R: Athirst is my soul for the living God.
1 [2] As the hind longs for the running waters, so my soul longs for you, O God. 2 [3] Athirst is my soul for God, the living God. When shall I go and be hold the face of God? (R) 43: 3 Send forth your light and your fidelity; they shall lead me on and bring me to your holy mountain, to your dwelling-place. (R) 4 Then will I go in to the altar of God, the God of my gladness and joy; then will I give you thanks upon the harp, O God, my God!
For only in Jesus can we find everlasting peace and comfort. The Good Shepherd is one who forms and unites the flock as a special people of God. In Matthew 28 and John 20 we read about the great commissioning of the apostles by Jesus. He said to them, “whose sins that you forgive, are forgiven and as the Father has sent me, so I send you, and he who receives you receives me. He left this ministry to continue the shepherding. This entire mission is directed in gathering the flock, transform the people of God and to save all of us, people of God by the word of the gospel and the redemptive paschal mystery of Jesus’ passion, death and resurrection.. Those who follow Him are His ministers and they are to hand on what is given to them. As Jesus said to Simon Peter, "Simon, son of John, do you love me more than these?" He said to him, "Yes, Lord, you know that I love you." He said to him, "Feed my lambs."..."Tend my sheep."..."Feed my sheep... He told him 3x to shepherd the flock but he must be united with Jesus before he can properly tend the flock. Peter had to learn humble discipleship. Earlier Peter tried to dissuade Jesus from the cross and was rebuked “Get behind me satan.” Peter had to follow Jesus. The critical part is when he realized and said in Peter 2:20-25 “…follow in His footsteps, stay close to the shepherd and guardian of our souls.” Peter followed Jesus and recognized His voice. Man needs God. We have to be shown the path to God and this is what real shepherds do unlike the hired hand. According to Blessed Pope John Paul II, priests are called to authoritatively proclaim God’s words. The thieves and robbers apply to those people who exploit, serve themselves, use to their advantage and teach their own gospel not of Jesus. We are all called to be baptized, receive the Holy Spirit in order to be saved from this corrupt generation. We need a shepherd we can’t do it on our own. When we look at our own lives evil is constantly present to us in the world. It’s ridiculous to go into this dark valley without Jesus. People are scandalized by how the world turns out. It could be such a terrible place if people fail to depend on God in prayer. We need to hear His voice, follow Him and be led to find the verdant pastures. If we follow Him then we can drink of the restful waters, He will never abandon us and there is nothing we shall want. The saints would say, “Only the Lord.” To have life more abundantly, this is what we crave for. It is the life in the sacraments and in the gospel that lead us to follow his footsteps to the endless restful waters in green pastures. In John 6, He told us to eat His body and drink His blood to have eternal life. He used the Hebrew word to chew or gnaw, as in eating of the animals. It is the more graphic word to describe it and not just symbolic. The Church can understand the real presence of God in the Eucharist, transubstantiation, makes His body and blood available to us where real change has taken place. If we have Jesus in our life who lays down His life on the cross, bringing sheep that are led astray home and continually making Himself available in the Holy Eucharist then we will have the fullness of life in abundance. Amen. Hallelujah!
Holy Gospel of Jesus Christ according to Saint John 10,11-18.
...I am the good shepherd. A good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.
A hired man, who is not a shepherd and whose sheep are not his own, sees a wolf coming and leaves the sheep and runs away, and the wolf catches and scatters them...
Acts 11:1-18
...‘What God has made clean, you are not to call profane.’ ...If then God gave them the same gift he gave to us when we came to believe in the Lord Jesus Christ, who was I to be able to hinder God?” 18 When they heard this, they stopped objecting and glorified God, saying, “God has then granted life-giving repentance to the Gentiles, too.”
May all our basic instincts be rooted from our longing for God. Only in God can we find true satisfaction. Him alone can quench the thirst of our soul. Whenever I hear the song which has the same thought as the psalm reading for today I always imagine and picture a deer panting and drinking water in the stream. This kind of longing and thirst we have all experienced one way or another in our lifetime whether it be physical, mental, emotional or spiritual. We may search long and hard but find none that can fully satisfy if we fail to recognize the rivers of Living Water which only God can give and provide. Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalm 42:2-3; 43:3-4
R: Athirst is my soul for the living God.
1 [2] As the hind longs for the running waters, so my soul longs for you, O God. 2 [3] Athirst is my soul for God, the living God. When shall I go and be hold the face of God? (R) 43: 3 Send forth your light and your fidelity; they shall lead me on and bring me to your holy mountain, to your dwelling-place. (R) 4 Then will I go in to the altar of God, the God of my gladness and joy; then will I give you thanks upon the harp, O God, my God!
For only in Jesus can we find everlasting peace and comfort. The Good Shepherd is one who forms and unites the flock as a special people of God. In Matthew 28 and John 20 we read about the great commissioning of the apostles by Jesus. He said to them, “whose sins that you forgive, are forgiven and as the Father has sent me, so I send you, and he who receives you receives me. He left this ministry to continue the shepherding. This entire mission is directed in gathering the flock, transform the people of God and to save all of us, people of God by the word of the gospel and the redemptive paschal mystery of Jesus’ passion, death and resurrection.. Those who follow Him are His ministers and they are to hand on what is given to them. As Jesus said to Simon Peter, "Simon, son of John, do you love me more than these?" He said to him, "Yes, Lord, you know that I love you." He said to him, "Feed my lambs."..."Tend my sheep."..."Feed my sheep... He told him 3x to shepherd the flock but he must be united with Jesus before he can properly tend the flock. Peter had to learn humble discipleship. Earlier Peter tried to dissuade Jesus from the cross and was rebuked “Get behind me satan.” Peter had to follow Jesus. The critical part is when he realized and said in Peter 2:20-25 “…follow in His footsteps, stay close to the shepherd and guardian of our souls.” Peter followed Jesus and recognized His voice. Man needs God. We have to be shown the path to God and this is what real shepherds do unlike the hired hand. According to Blessed Pope John Paul II, priests are called to authoritatively proclaim God’s words. The thieves and robbers apply to those people who exploit, serve themselves, use to their advantage and teach their own gospel not of Jesus. We are all called to be baptized, receive the Holy Spirit in order to be saved from this corrupt generation. We need a shepherd we can’t do it on our own. When we look at our own lives evil is constantly present to us in the world. It’s ridiculous to go into this dark valley without Jesus. People are scandalized by how the world turns out. It could be such a terrible place if people fail to depend on God in prayer. We need to hear His voice, follow Him and be led to find the verdant pastures. If we follow Him then we can drink of the restful waters, He will never abandon us and there is nothing we shall want. The saints would say, “Only the Lord.” To have life more abundantly, this is what we crave for. It is the life in the sacraments and in the gospel that lead us to follow his footsteps to the endless restful waters in green pastures. In John 6, He told us to eat His body and drink His blood to have eternal life. He used the Hebrew word to chew or gnaw, as in eating of the animals. It is the more graphic word to describe it and not just symbolic. The Church can understand the real presence of God in the Eucharist, transubstantiation, makes His body and blood available to us where real change has taken place. If we have Jesus in our life who lays down His life on the cross, bringing sheep that are led astray home and continually making Himself available in the Holy Eucharist then we will have the fullness of life in abundance. Amen. Hallelujah!
Holy Gospel of Jesus Christ according to Saint John 10,11-18.
...I am the good shepherd. A good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.
A hired man, who is not a shepherd and whose sheep are not his own, sees a wolf coming and leaves the sheep and runs away, and the wolf catches and scatters them...
Sunday, May 15, 2011
DO YOU RECOGNIZE HIS VOICE?
It's time for us to make a stand. There is indeed a tug of war of good and bad. On which side are you? Let us be fully aware of which side we are pulling. Amen. Hallelujah!
Acts of the Apostles 2,14.36-41.
..."Save yourselves from this corrupt generation." ...
We have to make sure we are not misguided or deceived by a fake shepherd and really belong to the flock of sheep that Jesus shepherds. Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalms 23(22),1-3.3-4.5.6.
...The LORD is my shepherd; there is nothing I lack.
In green pastures you let me graze; to safe waters you lead me;
you restore my strength. You guide me along the right path for the sake of your name...You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows...
We have to stand up for something that is good and right before God. Amen. Hallelujah!
First Letter of Peter 2,20-25.
...But what credit is there if you are patient when beaten for doing wrong? But if you are patient when you suffer for doing what is good, this is a grace before God...
It is very important that we follow the Good Shepherd so that we don't end up in the hands of the enemy whose only goal is to steal, slaughter and destroy. We are safe in the guiding love of Jesus for as long as we consciously follow Him. Only Jesus can satisfy our souls and make us whole. He'll give us peace we never knew, sweet love, joy and heaven, too. These are the lyrics of a charismatic song that I have always loved to sing. In today's gospel the message of God is very clear, we should know and recognize the voice of God and the path that leads to Him. Let us not allow ourselves to be led astray by the deception of the enemy whose only aim is to steal our joy, slaughter and destroy our peace. If we are bothered by some concerns let us always approach and never leave the flock that our Good Shepherd cares for. In Him we are surely safe and secure. We ought to be careful though that we do not fall for the trap of the enemy and this world. We have to know and identify who really is the Good Shepherd. We've got to know the difference and be very discreet in whom we place our confidence and trust. The false shepherd exploits, feeds his ego and makes himself the center. He takes rather than gives. These things might be very familiar to us and might have experienced it with friends, relatives, even institutions and groups. Instead of leading us to green pasture we suffer in the process as we follow the hired hand. The Good Shepherd on the contrary does not run away when danger is imminent but rather is willing to die for the sheep. Jesus is dedicated to protect and keep us safe from the many dangers of this world. He is willing to be betrayed, denied, humiliated and crucified for our sake. We are like lost sheep and we need to follow Jesus all the way to the cross in Mt. Calvary. We must not be afraid for God's yoke is His will for us which we should accept. It does not take away our freedom nor it wears us down since the good news is out, the Good Shepherd is risen. He came for us that we might have life and have it abundantly. Amen. Hallelujah!
John 10:1-10
1 Jesus said: “Amen, amen, I say to you, whoever does not enter a sheepfold through the gate but climbs over elsewhere is a thief and a robber. 2 But whoever enters through the gate is the shepherd of the sheep. 3 The gatekeeper opens it for him, and the sheep hear his voice, as he calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. 4 When he has driven out all his own, he walks ahead of them, and the sheep follow him, because they recognize his voice...A thief comes only to steal and slaughter and destroy; I came so that they might have life and have it more abundantly.”
Acts of the Apostles 2,14.36-41.
..."Save yourselves from this corrupt generation." ...
We have to make sure we are not misguided or deceived by a fake shepherd and really belong to the flock of sheep that Jesus shepherds. Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalms 23(22),1-3.3-4.5.6.
...The LORD is my shepherd; there is nothing I lack.
In green pastures you let me graze; to safe waters you lead me;
you restore my strength. You guide me along the right path for the sake of your name...You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows...
We have to stand up for something that is good and right before God. Amen. Hallelujah!
First Letter of Peter 2,20-25.
...But what credit is there if you are patient when beaten for doing wrong? But if you are patient when you suffer for doing what is good, this is a grace before God...
It is very important that we follow the Good Shepherd so that we don't end up in the hands of the enemy whose only goal is to steal, slaughter and destroy. We are safe in the guiding love of Jesus for as long as we consciously follow Him. Only Jesus can satisfy our souls and make us whole. He'll give us peace we never knew, sweet love, joy and heaven, too. These are the lyrics of a charismatic song that I have always loved to sing. In today's gospel the message of God is very clear, we should know and recognize the voice of God and the path that leads to Him. Let us not allow ourselves to be led astray by the deception of the enemy whose only aim is to steal our joy, slaughter and destroy our peace. If we are bothered by some concerns let us always approach and never leave the flock that our Good Shepherd cares for. In Him we are surely safe and secure. We ought to be careful though that we do not fall for the trap of the enemy and this world. We have to know and identify who really is the Good Shepherd. We've got to know the difference and be very discreet in whom we place our confidence and trust. The false shepherd exploits, feeds his ego and makes himself the center. He takes rather than gives. These things might be very familiar to us and might have experienced it with friends, relatives, even institutions and groups. Instead of leading us to green pasture we suffer in the process as we follow the hired hand. The Good Shepherd on the contrary does not run away when danger is imminent but rather is willing to die for the sheep. Jesus is dedicated to protect and keep us safe from the many dangers of this world. He is willing to be betrayed, denied, humiliated and crucified for our sake. We are like lost sheep and we need to follow Jesus all the way to the cross in Mt. Calvary. We must not be afraid for God's yoke is His will for us which we should accept. It does not take away our freedom nor it wears us down since the good news is out, the Good Shepherd is risen. He came for us that we might have life and have it abundantly. Amen. Hallelujah!
John 10:1-10
1 Jesus said: “Amen, amen, I say to you, whoever does not enter a sheepfold through the gate but climbs over elsewhere is a thief and a robber. 2 But whoever enters through the gate is the shepherd of the sheep. 3 The gatekeeper opens it for him, and the sheep hear his voice, as he calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. 4 When he has driven out all his own, he walks ahead of them, and the sheep follow him, because they recognize his voice...A thief comes only to steal and slaughter and destroy; I came so that they might have life and have it more abundantly.”
Saturday, May 14, 2011
BESTFRIEND FOR EVERYONE
There are times when we reach a certain point wherein we are totally unsure of what our next move should be. All we have to do is just pray to God for guidance and light to show us the right thing to do. Although this should not be abused to the point of not assessing the situation we are in anymore or even use it as an excuse for not acting appropriately on something that should be done. Instead, this should make us follow the example in today's 1st reading when the apostles referred to scripture, convened with a group of believers, prayed and came to a decision. Amen. Hallelujah!
Acts 1:15-17. 20-26
15 Peter stood up in the midst of the brothers (there was a group of about one hundred and twenty persons in the one place). He said, 16 “My brothers, the scripture had to be fulfilled which the Holy Spirit spoke beforehand through the mouth of David, concerning Judas, who was the guide for those who arrested Jesus. 17 He was numbered among us and was allotted a share in this ministry. 20 For it is written in the Book of Psalms: ‘Let his encampment become desolate, and may no one dwell in it.’ And: ‘May another take his office.’ ... Then they prayed, “You, Lord, who know the hearts of all, show which one of these two you have chosen... they proposed two, Joseph called Barsabbas, who was also known as Justus, and Matthias...and the lot fell upon Matthias, and he was counted with the eleven apostles.
It is important that we are always in touch with this reality and truth about our God who is Lord of lords and King of kings and gain confidence from it as if we are already seated and counted among the leaders of His people. That's the Spirit we should all have. A winner. Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalm 113:1-2. 3-4. 5-6. 7-8
R: The Lord will give him a seat with the leaders of his people.
1 Praise, you servants of the LORD, praise the name of the LORD. 2 Blessed be the name of the LORD both now and forever. ..
In our life's struggles and difficulties it is always good to know that we have a friend in Jesus who will never disappoint us. Just like any other relationships, true friendship is put to the test and one thing I am sure of, in Jesus we've found the perfect and loyal friend. We always have a choice. We can be a friend or an enemy to someone whenever we choose to. But think about it, no matter how difficult life situations may be we always have a better choice and it is always wise to settle for the best choice. That is to listen and follow the advice of our one true and loyal bestfriend, Jesus. It is noteworthy that in the gospel of John, it is very rare that Jesus gives a commandment. In today's gospel in John, He gives us this commandment, "Remain in my love..." This love is fully given to us but if we look carefully enough we will find that we don't deserve it. It's not because of something good we have done and get in return. It is not based on some kind of contract but more of a relationship. If we keep this commandment then God will remain in us. It somehow depicts the aspect of the Blessed Trinity, that we are made in the image and likeness of God so we imitate the life of the Trinity. When Jesus speaks and almost always He will say this, "I came not to speak on my own words but the Father's." We are all desirous of self expression. It is good to express one's self, whether it is right or wrong, though, self expression is not the ultimate good. As we come to know this, we must keep in mind that our Lord's words is one of the means of keeping the commandment. In order for us to remain in Him as we maintain our branches attached to Him. We must recognize the need to focus on Jesus, listen to Him as a response to this commandment and call of love. To love Him is keeping ourselves attached to Him. Sometimes we ask, "What about myself?" Many times we react negatively. We sometimes have trepidations and doubt whether we can be able to live out His commands. There is always the temptation not to follow the Lord's words in scriptures. We misinterpret happiness that the world offers. We give in to it and get drunk by what it has to offer. Only to find ourselves with a hangover and regret what we have done. When we give in to temptation and start to sin we ought to remember too that only the nice stuff are being presented to us at that time of temptation. We ought to realize that what it offers to us is just a spur of the moment and fleeting joy but would never last. If we respond to Jesus' commandment and enter into the process of moving away from sin then we will have a joy that lasts and a peace that surpasses understanding as St. Paul says in Corinthians. We are no longer kids who want to play with an empty decorated box rather than own a diamond. God wants us to have the diamond which lasts forever. This is the reality of the joy that lasts and is complete. God is offering us something great and beyond our comprehensions. As in, "no eye has seen nor ear has heard" what God has ready for those who accept this invitation and obey this commandment of Jesus in today's gospel. God has the right to command us because He was the one who chose us first. When God gave up His only Son to die on the cross and Jesus obeyed unto death, even the angels and saints could not take this incredible sacrifice of a God. Jesus, the only Begotten Son of God, stripped Himself of this royalty and was subjected to the most humiliating and excruciating pain. It was through this that Jesus showed us the power of powerlessness. When we ourselves are confronted with such situations we might as well take it as a privilege and invitation to throw our powerlessness to God and receive the power of Jesus to lift us up. God has poured and emptied Himself out in every possible way. This should be our motivation. The great love of God is inexplicably incredible and wonderful. It reaches out to all of us and all He asks of us is that we acknowledge, believe and obey Him. God does not force His way in and is very well mannered. He is like light that comes in open windows. We've got to be receptive and open to Him. Amen. Hallelujah!
John 15:9-17
9 Jesus said to his disciples: “As the Father loves me, so I also love you. Remain in my love. 10 If you keep my commandments, you will remain in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commandments and remain in his love. 11 “I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and your joy may be complete.” ... I have called you friends, because I have told you everything I have heard from my Father. 16 It was not you who chose me, but I who chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit that will remain, so that whatever you ask the Father in my name he may give you. 17 This I command you: love one another.”...
Acts 1:15-17. 20-26
15 Peter stood up in the midst of the brothers (there was a group of about one hundred and twenty persons in the one place). He said, 16 “My brothers, the scripture had to be fulfilled which the Holy Spirit spoke beforehand through the mouth of David, concerning Judas, who was the guide for those who arrested Jesus. 17 He was numbered among us and was allotted a share in this ministry. 20 For it is written in the Book of Psalms: ‘Let his encampment become desolate, and may no one dwell in it.’ And: ‘May another take his office.’ ... Then they prayed, “You, Lord, who know the hearts of all, show which one of these two you have chosen... they proposed two, Joseph called Barsabbas, who was also known as Justus, and Matthias...and the lot fell upon Matthias, and he was counted with the eleven apostles.
It is important that we are always in touch with this reality and truth about our God who is Lord of lords and King of kings and gain confidence from it as if we are already seated and counted among the leaders of His people. That's the Spirit we should all have. A winner. Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalm 113:1-2. 3-4. 5-6. 7-8
R: The Lord will give him a seat with the leaders of his people.
1 Praise, you servants of the LORD, praise the name of the LORD. 2 Blessed be the name of the LORD both now and forever. ..
In our life's struggles and difficulties it is always good to know that we have a friend in Jesus who will never disappoint us. Just like any other relationships, true friendship is put to the test and one thing I am sure of, in Jesus we've found the perfect and loyal friend. We always have a choice. We can be a friend or an enemy to someone whenever we choose to. But think about it, no matter how difficult life situations may be we always have a better choice and it is always wise to settle for the best choice. That is to listen and follow the advice of our one true and loyal bestfriend, Jesus. It is noteworthy that in the gospel of John, it is very rare that Jesus gives a commandment. In today's gospel in John, He gives us this commandment, "Remain in my love..." This love is fully given to us but if we look carefully enough we will find that we don't deserve it. It's not because of something good we have done and get in return. It is not based on some kind of contract but more of a relationship. If we keep this commandment then God will remain in us. It somehow depicts the aspect of the Blessed Trinity, that we are made in the image and likeness of God so we imitate the life of the Trinity. When Jesus speaks and almost always He will say this, "I came not to speak on my own words but the Father's." We are all desirous of self expression. It is good to express one's self, whether it is right or wrong, though, self expression is not the ultimate good. As we come to know this, we must keep in mind that our Lord's words is one of the means of keeping the commandment. In order for us to remain in Him as we maintain our branches attached to Him. We must recognize the need to focus on Jesus, listen to Him as a response to this commandment and call of love. To love Him is keeping ourselves attached to Him. Sometimes we ask, "What about myself?" Many times we react negatively. We sometimes have trepidations and doubt whether we can be able to live out His commands. There is always the temptation not to follow the Lord's words in scriptures. We misinterpret happiness that the world offers. We give in to it and get drunk by what it has to offer. Only to find ourselves with a hangover and regret what we have done. When we give in to temptation and start to sin we ought to remember too that only the nice stuff are being presented to us at that time of temptation. We ought to realize that what it offers to us is just a spur of the moment and fleeting joy but would never last. If we respond to Jesus' commandment and enter into the process of moving away from sin then we will have a joy that lasts and a peace that surpasses understanding as St. Paul says in Corinthians. We are no longer kids who want to play with an empty decorated box rather than own a diamond. God wants us to have the diamond which lasts forever. This is the reality of the joy that lasts and is complete. God is offering us something great and beyond our comprehensions. As in, "no eye has seen nor ear has heard" what God has ready for those who accept this invitation and obey this commandment of Jesus in today's gospel. God has the right to command us because He was the one who chose us first. When God gave up His only Son to die on the cross and Jesus obeyed unto death, even the angels and saints could not take this incredible sacrifice of a God. Jesus, the only Begotten Son of God, stripped Himself of this royalty and was subjected to the most humiliating and excruciating pain. It was through this that Jesus showed us the power of powerlessness. When we ourselves are confronted with such situations we might as well take it as a privilege and invitation to throw our powerlessness to God and receive the power of Jesus to lift us up. God has poured and emptied Himself out in every possible way. This should be our motivation. The great love of God is inexplicably incredible and wonderful. It reaches out to all of us and all He asks of us is that we acknowledge, believe and obey Him. God does not force His way in and is very well mannered. He is like light that comes in open windows. We've got to be receptive and open to Him. Amen. Hallelujah!
John 15:9-17
9 Jesus said to his disciples: “As the Father loves me, so I also love you. Remain in my love. 10 If you keep my commandments, you will remain in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commandments and remain in his love. 11 “I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and your joy may be complete.” ... I have called you friends, because I have told you everything I have heard from my Father. 16 It was not you who chose me, but I who chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit that will remain, so that whatever you ask the Father in my name he may give you. 17 This I command you: love one another.”...
Thursday, May 12, 2011
DIGESTIVE SYSTEM
Have you ever had this feeling when you feel you ought to do something and it turned out to be the right thing to do. It usually happens to most of us that's why it's very important to be always attuned to God so that we would know right away what He wants us to do. If we get rid of all the things that bring us far away from God then we can always feel His presence lighting, guiding and guarding our way. It makes sense doesn't it? We are perfectly aware of our daily activities and should know whether they bring us closer to God or not. Today's 1st reading tells us of Philip whom the angel of the Lord spoke with and one thing led to another. A human being came to believe and was baptized instantly. I guess, Philip was preparing to go someplace else but suddenly found himself being led to another place. Sometimes we wonder how we ever end up to be in a particular situation as if the circumstances surrounding us were arranged in such a manner that everything just fell into perfect place. Let us continue to be sensitive to the moving of the Holy Spirit in our life and humbly obey. Never doubt and completely trust His judgment and leading. If we allow the Holy Spirit to lead us through the work of God we will surely find ourselves being held by the hand, confidently standing on the right path, safe and secure. Let us keep God first place and He'll take us to places we never ever dreamed of. Amen. Hallelujah!
Acts 8:26-40
26 The angel of the Lord spoke to Philip, “Get up and head south on the road that goes down from Jerusalem to Gaza, the desert route.” 27 So he got up and set out. Now there was an Ethiopian eunuch, a court official of the Candace, that is, the queen of the Ethiopians, in charge of her entire treasury, who had come to Jerusalem to worship, 28 and was returning home. Seated in his chariot, he was reading the prophet Isaiah. 29 The Spirit said to Philip, “Go and join up with that chariot.” 30 Philip ran up and heard him reading Isaiah the prophet and said, “Do you understand what you are reading?” 31 He replied, “How can I, unless someone instructs me?” So he invited Philip to get in and sit with him. 32 This was the scripture passage he was reading: “Like a sheep he was led to the slaughter, and as a lamb before its shearer is silent, so he opened not his mouth. 33 In [his] humiliation justice was denied him. Who will tell of his posterity? For his life is taken from the earth.” 34 Then the eunuch said to Philip in reply, “I beg you, about whom is the prophet saying this? About himself, or about someone else?” 35 Then Philip opened his mouth and, beginning with this scripture passage, he proclaimed Jesus to him. 36 As they traveled along the road they came to some water, and the eunuch said, “Look, there is water. What is to prevent my being baptized?” [37] 37 38 Then he ordered the chariot to stop, and Philip and the eunuch both went down into the water, and he baptized him. 39 When they came out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord snatched Philip away, and the eunuch saw him no more, but continued on his way rejoicing.
We have to be strong and of good courage as spoken of in Joshua. We have a God who is fighting our battles for us. Let us believe that we are at the right place on the right time. God is in control. Although God will not stop every adversity but if we stay in faith, He will see us through. He did not promise life to be smooth sailing all the time but He definitely assured us of a safe landing. God has already lined up the right people, right places at the right time. He has prepared for our victory and so we should be ready for God's favor. Let's open up our senses to the Lord's call and take action. Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalm 66:8-9, 16-17, 20
R: Let all the earth cry out to God with joy.
8 Bless our God, you peoples, loudly sound his praise; 9 he has given life to our souls, and has not let our feet slip. (R) 16 Hear now, all you who fear God, while I declare what he has done for me. 17 When I appealed to him in words, praise was on the tip of my tongue. (R) 20 Blessed be God who refused me not my prayer or his kindness!
The gospel for several days has been mentioning about manna, the physical bread that our ancestors ate in the desert. Abraham gave them the 10 commandments or the Torah, which is the path of life and the Law. It can not save by itself we need God's Grace more than just the right actions. We are made of flesh and has the tendency to stay in the natural or physical level. We need to go beyond this level for a spiritual, supernatural and divine life. We thirst and hunger and seek to satisfy it in the things that the world offers. Despite our prosperity we are still dissatisfied. We can't satisfy our deepest hunger if we just turn to natural things. Even the outward or physical sign of bread seemed nothing and no longer enjoy it. This happens when we are caught up in the web of this fast paced world we live in and forget to stop for a little while and think. We need to slow down and savor each bite. Jesus is the True Bread that will give us supernatural life. He is the Law that has become flesh. Scriptures tell us of the several occasions when Jesus demonstrated to us the importance of the Eucharist and partake of the Body and Blood of Christ. The Road to Emmaus, the Upper Room in Jerusalem and the Sea of Galilee are only a few of these when Jesus took bread and fish, broke it and gave to His disciples. The temptation of Jesus in the desert to turn the stone into bread. His response based on scripture in Deuteronomy 8:3, "Man does not live on bread alone but by every word that comes from the mouth of God." There is a need to correct the misunderstanding. The Old Testament mentality tells us that the brain is not associated with thinking rather with the senses to feel, hear, see etc. It is the marrow of the head and thinking is associated with the heart, stomach and kidneys. Humans process thought in the internal organs as in the digestive system. In Sirach 21, "Come to me, eat and be satisfied." Wisdom that can be processed inside and stay within us. The word of God nourishes us more than bread. The Old Testament prepares us to something more profound. We need to recall these instances and the miracles especially of the multiplication of the loaves of bread and fish. An example that could give light to this is the concentration camps during the time of the Nazis. It was said that people who are more focused on the word of God lasted longer than those who are physically fit. Those who do not have the physical strength were sustained. The act of faith is necessary in every walk of life. It could be faith in anything, in science, logic and other things. There are so many things we can take from faith but not everything will ultimately lead to life that removes ultimate hunger. The physical things like riches, power and fame could lead us to destruction. Nowadays, we see the effects of drugs, sex and other things. People are dying from overdose, sexually transmitted diseases and more that we may not know of. We have to refrain from things that are not necessary and take things that God gives us. We need to cooperate by believing in Christ. They say experience is the best teacher, and I guess God wanted us all to learn from Him by living it out in our own lives whatever instructions we heard from God and was taught to us. And who could best teach us other than Jesus who experienced it all. Accept the word of God, digest, process and be nourished. We tend to ignore the deeper meaning and the mystery of the Holy Eucharist. It is not simply a philosophy like the others which are great tools and help a lot but can never sustain us. Easter invites us to reflect on these miracles of the bread and wine in the scriptures both in the Old and New Testament and still understand our faith today. Amen. Hallelujah!
John 6:44-51
44 Jesus said to the crowds: “No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draw him, and I will raise him on the last day. 45 It is written in the prophets: ‘They shall all be taught by God.’ Everyone who listens to my Father and learns from him comes to me. 46 Not that anyone has seen the Father except the one who is from God; he has seen the Father. 47 Amen, amen, I say to you, whoever believes has eternal life. 48 I am the bread of life. 49 Your ancestors ate the manna in the desert, but they died; 50 this is the bread that comes down from heaven so that one may eat it and not die. 51 I am the living bread that came down from heaven; whoever eats this bread will live forever; and the bread that I will give is my flesh for the life of the world.”
Acts 8:26-40
26 The angel of the Lord spoke to Philip, “Get up and head south on the road that goes down from Jerusalem to Gaza, the desert route.” 27 So he got up and set out. Now there was an Ethiopian eunuch, a court official of the Candace, that is, the queen of the Ethiopians, in charge of her entire treasury, who had come to Jerusalem to worship, 28 and was returning home. Seated in his chariot, he was reading the prophet Isaiah. 29 The Spirit said to Philip, “Go and join up with that chariot.” 30 Philip ran up and heard him reading Isaiah the prophet and said, “Do you understand what you are reading?” 31 He replied, “How can I, unless someone instructs me?” So he invited Philip to get in and sit with him. 32 This was the scripture passage he was reading: “Like a sheep he was led to the slaughter, and as a lamb before its shearer is silent, so he opened not his mouth. 33 In [his] humiliation justice was denied him. Who will tell of his posterity? For his life is taken from the earth.” 34 Then the eunuch said to Philip in reply, “I beg you, about whom is the prophet saying this? About himself, or about someone else?” 35 Then Philip opened his mouth and, beginning with this scripture passage, he proclaimed Jesus to him. 36 As they traveled along the road they came to some water, and the eunuch said, “Look, there is water. What is to prevent my being baptized?” [37] 37 38 Then he ordered the chariot to stop, and Philip and the eunuch both went down into the water, and he baptized him. 39 When they came out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord snatched Philip away, and the eunuch saw him no more, but continued on his way rejoicing.
We have to be strong and of good courage as spoken of in Joshua. We have a God who is fighting our battles for us. Let us believe that we are at the right place on the right time. God is in control. Although God will not stop every adversity but if we stay in faith, He will see us through. He did not promise life to be smooth sailing all the time but He definitely assured us of a safe landing. God has already lined up the right people, right places at the right time. He has prepared for our victory and so we should be ready for God's favor. Let's open up our senses to the Lord's call and take action. Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalm 66:8-9, 16-17, 20
R: Let all the earth cry out to God with joy.
8 Bless our God, you peoples, loudly sound his praise; 9 he has given life to our souls, and has not let our feet slip. (R) 16 Hear now, all you who fear God, while I declare what he has done for me. 17 When I appealed to him in words, praise was on the tip of my tongue. (R) 20 Blessed be God who refused me not my prayer or his kindness!
The gospel for several days has been mentioning about manna, the physical bread that our ancestors ate in the desert. Abraham gave them the 10 commandments or the Torah, which is the path of life and the Law. It can not save by itself we need God's Grace more than just the right actions. We are made of flesh and has the tendency to stay in the natural or physical level. We need to go beyond this level for a spiritual, supernatural and divine life. We thirst and hunger and seek to satisfy it in the things that the world offers. Despite our prosperity we are still dissatisfied. We can't satisfy our deepest hunger if we just turn to natural things. Even the outward or physical sign of bread seemed nothing and no longer enjoy it. This happens when we are caught up in the web of this fast paced world we live in and forget to stop for a little while and think. We need to slow down and savor each bite. Jesus is the True Bread that will give us supernatural life. He is the Law that has become flesh. Scriptures tell us of the several occasions when Jesus demonstrated to us the importance of the Eucharist and partake of the Body and Blood of Christ. The Road to Emmaus, the Upper Room in Jerusalem and the Sea of Galilee are only a few of these when Jesus took bread and fish, broke it and gave to His disciples. The temptation of Jesus in the desert to turn the stone into bread. His response based on scripture in Deuteronomy 8:3, "Man does not live on bread alone but by every word that comes from the mouth of God." There is a need to correct the misunderstanding. The Old Testament mentality tells us that the brain is not associated with thinking rather with the senses to feel, hear, see etc. It is the marrow of the head and thinking is associated with the heart, stomach and kidneys. Humans process thought in the internal organs as in the digestive system. In Sirach 21, "Come to me, eat and be satisfied." Wisdom that can be processed inside and stay within us. The word of God nourishes us more than bread. The Old Testament prepares us to something more profound. We need to recall these instances and the miracles especially of the multiplication of the loaves of bread and fish. An example that could give light to this is the concentration camps during the time of the Nazis. It was said that people who are more focused on the word of God lasted longer than those who are physically fit. Those who do not have the physical strength were sustained. The act of faith is necessary in every walk of life. It could be faith in anything, in science, logic and other things. There are so many things we can take from faith but not everything will ultimately lead to life that removes ultimate hunger. The physical things like riches, power and fame could lead us to destruction. Nowadays, we see the effects of drugs, sex and other things. People are dying from overdose, sexually transmitted diseases and more that we may not know of. We have to refrain from things that are not necessary and take things that God gives us. We need to cooperate by believing in Christ. They say experience is the best teacher, and I guess God wanted us all to learn from Him by living it out in our own lives whatever instructions we heard from God and was taught to us. And who could best teach us other than Jesus who experienced it all. Accept the word of God, digest, process and be nourished. We tend to ignore the deeper meaning and the mystery of the Holy Eucharist. It is not simply a philosophy like the others which are great tools and help a lot but can never sustain us. Easter invites us to reflect on these miracles of the bread and wine in the scriptures both in the Old and New Testament and still understand our faith today. Amen. Hallelujah!
John 6:44-51
44 Jesus said to the crowds: “No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draw him, and I will raise him on the last day. 45 It is written in the prophets: ‘They shall all be taught by God.’ Everyone who listens to my Father and learns from him comes to me. 46 Not that anyone has seen the Father except the one who is from God; he has seen the Father. 47 Amen, amen, I say to you, whoever believes has eternal life. 48 I am the bread of life. 49 Your ancestors ate the manna in the desert, but they died; 50 this is the bread that comes down from heaven so that one may eat it and not die. 51 I am the living bread that came down from heaven; whoever eats this bread will live forever; and the bread that I will give is my flesh for the life of the world.”
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)