Joining the seniors and other regular attendees in St. Martha for the Divine Mercy & Rosary prayer is really a blessing. Aside from the fact that it feels good to be with people who are dedicated and very devoted to the Lord it is also an occasion for endless discussion and venue to constantly praise and thank God. Although some of them are really old and are almost 90 years old they still continue to go to church regularly. In fact, there was once a priest who even advised them not to go to church anymore and just stay at home but they still keep on going and always present in almost every activity in St. Martha. They have become a source of inspiration for all of us who attend mass and see them in Church. Amen. Hallelujah!
Colossians 1:1-8
...We always give thanks to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, when we pray for you, 4 for we have heard of your faith in Christ Jesus and the love that you have for all the holy ones 5 because of the hope reserved for you in heaven. Of this you have already heard through the word of truth, the gospel, 6 that has come to you.
We may be faced with lots of uncertainties in our lives but we can always be confident that God is always there for us. He will never ignore us rather would always make things work for the good because the mercy of God is being channeled through the people and events that God sends our way. Nothing is impossible with God all things are possible. We've heard and seen so many miracles throughout our lifetime and thus we should always remember them and cling to them so that it will serve as our light and guide as we go on our way always hoping that God will never deprive us of our own miracles. Amen. Hallelujah!
P S A L M Psalm 52:10. 11
R: I trust in the mercy of God for ever.
8 [10] I, like a green olive tree in the house of God, trust in the mercy of God forever and ever. (R) 9 [11] I will thank you always for what you have done, and proclaim the goodness of your name before your faithful ones.
Today's gospel suddenly reminded me of Atty. Moya's talk on the 8th commandment, "Thou shall not bear false witness against your neighbor." This is centered on truth and honesty. It forbids all kinds of falsehood and commands total truthfulness: love & live the truth. But what made me share this has something to do with the example in today's gospel when Jesus silenced the evil spirit who was telling the truth about Him. It goes to show that there are times when we are not supposed to tell the truth all the time. That there are some things better left unsaid if it's not charitable or it could hurt someone. It also reminds us not to be too quick to judge other people. We have to exercise prudence and seek to always mitigate the situation rather than instigate or push someone to anger and cause to destroy relationships or hurt people. The Devil is not only the father of lies but also the master of deception. He can twist the truth and use it to his evil advantage. We should always have the deep respect for the truth and know the importance of appropriateness of communication. We must reconcile truth and charity which tells us to keep silent or hide the truth for the sake of charity. CCC 2469 "Men could not live with one another if there were not mutual confidence that they were being truthful to one another." The virtue of truth gives another his just due. Truthfulness keeps to the just mean between what ought to be expressed and what ought to be kept secret: it entails honesty and discretion. In justice, "as a matter of honor, one man owes it to another to manifest the truth." IV. Respect for the Truth Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC) 2488 The right to the communication of the truth is not unconditional. Everyone must conform his life to the Gospel precept of fraternal love. This requires us in concrete situations to judge whether or not it is appropriate to reveal the truth to someone who asks for it. CCC 2489 Charity and respect for the truth should dictate the response to every request for information or communication. The good and safety of others, respect for privacy, and the common good are sufficient reasons for being silent about what ought not be known or for making use of a discreet LANGUAGE. The duty to avoid scandal often commands strict discretion. No one is bound to reveal the truth to someone who does not have the right to know it. Amen. Hallelujah!
Luke 4:38-44
...He laid his hands on each of them and cured them. 41 And demons also came out from many, shouting, “You are the Son of God.” But he rebuked them and did not allow them to speak...
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
Tuesday, August 30, 2011
RIGHT IN FRONT OF US
The readings for today remind me of the instances when I used to visit Sis Loreta’s home and my good friend, Ruby. This is the season when the fig tree of Sis Loreta is in full bloom. I miss those days when I used to pick figs in her garden but in the process end up bringing home others fruits in her garden. Since she is a nurse she would even give me some of her nursing reference materials and other very useful supplies that I was able to send home to the Philippines. It was also at that time when I was about to pick figs in her home when Ruby came rushing to me and asked if I could accompany her to St. Martha's School to check on her daughter, Abby. Although Sis Loreta and I had already planned it earlier we immediately conceded to Ruby’s request. Being a mother myself I was able to relate to how she felt because she was getting worried about Abby’s first few days as a 1st grader in her new school. Those were the days too when we used to spend time together and have a heart to heart talk about what is going on with our lives. We just encouraged one another and boosted each other’s moral. God reminds us in today's 1st reading to continue to build up one another and shows us what should always be the case between friends and the people of God. Amen. Hallelujah!
1 Thessalonians 5:1-6. 9-11
... Therefore, encourage one another and build one another up, as indeed you do.
I could never forget and would always remember those times when I used to pick figs at Sis Loreta's garden. It was then that a thought came to my mind while I was climbing a ladder in order to get the figs in hard to reach places. Despite the fact that I was already on top of the ladder there were still some figs that I was not able to see and pick up right away although it was already right in front of me. They are being covered by the leaves of the tree and some are hidden in between branches. I just realized that it could be compared to how God showers us with all the blessings and graces that we need. There are times when we fail to see it though it is already right in front of us. Sometimes we have to really look very closely and try to turn our gaze into different angles in order to see it. What's funny was that when I thought that I've got almost every ripe fig in the tree, I noticed one big ripe fruit at the lowest part of the tree, there was even no need to use a ladder in order to get it. Sometimes in life we resort to a lot of means that are sometimes no longer necessary. All we have to do is believe that we will see the good things of the Lord in the land of the living if we will just be patient and full of courage. Amen. Hallelujah!
P S A L M
Psalm 27:1. 4. 13-14
R: I believe that I shall see the good things of the Lord in the land of the living.
...Wait for the LORD with courage; be stouthearted, and wait for the LORD.
It is a shame when we think that it is enough that we just believe in Jesus because even the demons in today's gospel know who Jesus is. And to think that sometimes we even fall short of that aspect of knowing who Jesus really is. We've got to do better than this demon if we truly claim that we are His followers. Authority is defined in the dictionary as the, commanding influence, or right to respect, or acceptance of one's word, command and thought. In today’s bible passage the people were astonished at Jesus because He is referred to as someone who spoke with authority. He even commanded the evil spirit to come out of a possessed man and it obeyed Him. As Catholic Christians we all claim to believe in God but are we really subject to His authority. It’s just a shame that there are times when we do not totally submit ourselves to this Authority. The evil spirit obeyed Him and came out of the possessed man but we who always boast of our belief in God and are self confessed Christians are sometimes no better than this evil spirit. We are all guilty of obeying God only up to a certain extent, up to a point of comfort and convenience. When it comes to difficult situations in our lives can we still allow ourselves to be subject to His authority? Let us all closely examine every aspect of ourselves and search for those areas where we have not totally submitted to God’s authority. This is the challenge that I leave all of you and myself as well. Let us surpass the obedience of the evil spirit to Jesus authority and be more committed to God in everything that we do. The evil spirit obeyed Jesus out of fear knowing that God is Almighty and it is of no match to Jesus. In our end we should obey in the light of love, reverence and trust in God whom we call our Father, Brother, Redeemer and Savior. There is no doubt that Jesus is the Supreme authority for only Him can give us the true and everlasting satisfaction, peace and joy we all long for in our life. We should decide here, now and for always to choose Him as our Master and Ruler of our life. Amen. Hallelujah!
Luke 4:31-37
31 Jesus then went down to Capernaum, a town of Galilee. He taught them on the sabbath, 32 and they were astonished at his teaching because he spoke with authority...They were all amazed and said to one another, “What is there about his word? For with authority and power he commands the unclean spirits, and they come out.”37 And news of him spread everywhere in the surrounding region.
1 Thessalonians 5:1-6. 9-11
... Therefore, encourage one another and build one another up, as indeed you do.
I could never forget and would always remember those times when I used to pick figs at Sis Loreta's garden. It was then that a thought came to my mind while I was climbing a ladder in order to get the figs in hard to reach places. Despite the fact that I was already on top of the ladder there were still some figs that I was not able to see and pick up right away although it was already right in front of me. They are being covered by the leaves of the tree and some are hidden in between branches. I just realized that it could be compared to how God showers us with all the blessings and graces that we need. There are times when we fail to see it though it is already right in front of us. Sometimes we have to really look very closely and try to turn our gaze into different angles in order to see it. What's funny was that when I thought that I've got almost every ripe fig in the tree, I noticed one big ripe fruit at the lowest part of the tree, there was even no need to use a ladder in order to get it. Sometimes in life we resort to a lot of means that are sometimes no longer necessary. All we have to do is believe that we will see the good things of the Lord in the land of the living if we will just be patient and full of courage. Amen. Hallelujah!
P S A L M
Psalm 27:1. 4. 13-14
R: I believe that I shall see the good things of the Lord in the land of the living.
...Wait for the LORD with courage; be stouthearted, and wait for the LORD.
It is a shame when we think that it is enough that we just believe in Jesus because even the demons in today's gospel know who Jesus is. And to think that sometimes we even fall short of that aspect of knowing who Jesus really is. We've got to do better than this demon if we truly claim that we are His followers. Authority is defined in the dictionary as the, commanding influence, or right to respect, or acceptance of one's word, command and thought. In today’s bible passage the people were astonished at Jesus because He is referred to as someone who spoke with authority. He even commanded the evil spirit to come out of a possessed man and it obeyed Him. As Catholic Christians we all claim to believe in God but are we really subject to His authority. It’s just a shame that there are times when we do not totally submit ourselves to this Authority. The evil spirit obeyed Him and came out of the possessed man but we who always boast of our belief in God and are self confessed Christians are sometimes no better than this evil spirit. We are all guilty of obeying God only up to a certain extent, up to a point of comfort and convenience. When it comes to difficult situations in our lives can we still allow ourselves to be subject to His authority? Let us all closely examine every aspect of ourselves and search for those areas where we have not totally submitted to God’s authority. This is the challenge that I leave all of you and myself as well. Let us surpass the obedience of the evil spirit to Jesus authority and be more committed to God in everything that we do. The evil spirit obeyed Jesus out of fear knowing that God is Almighty and it is of no match to Jesus. In our end we should obey in the light of love, reverence and trust in God whom we call our Father, Brother, Redeemer and Savior. There is no doubt that Jesus is the Supreme authority for only Him can give us the true and everlasting satisfaction, peace and joy we all long for in our life. We should decide here, now and for always to choose Him as our Master and Ruler of our life. Amen. Hallelujah!
Luke 4:31-37
31 Jesus then went down to Capernaum, a town of Galilee. He taught them on the sabbath, 32 and they were astonished at his teaching because he spoke with authority...They were all amazed and said to one another, “What is there about his word? For with authority and power he commands the unclean spirits, and they come out.”37 And news of him spread everywhere in the surrounding region.
Monday, August 29, 2011
DRESS UP WELL!
The Lord has spoken so many times about His everlasting love and devotion to us. If we are always focused on this then we will surely emerge victorious in all our battles in this life. God knows each one of us in a very special way even before we were born. This truth should make us realize that none of us came to life by accident or chance. We have all been called for a mission and a purpose in life. If we live life embracing this truth at all times then we can be assured that our Creator and God who is a loving Father to all of us would see us through whatever it is that we are going through right now. Amen. Hallelujah!
Book of Jeremiah 1,17-19.
...They will fight against you, but not prevail over you, for I am with you to deliver you, says the LORD.
Our God is incomparable for He loves us with a love greater than any other. In God we find the most secure and safest shelter. Let us constantly build our confidence in God who never fails. There is really nowhere else to go but to Him alone. By just looking back at our past and present we can only come up with just one thing which is God is constantly at work and in charge of our lives for as long as we live. The mention of being called even from a mother’s womb, is one of the symbols of God’s words. The Word that reaches to the ends of the earth, penetrates the hearts of people and able to separate soul and spirit. It should be our duty to spread God’s Word.
The Principles of Catholic Evangelization
1. Live the gospel-use words only when necessary. Walk the talk
2. Challenge others by one's example and lifestyle
3. Uphold true values. People first than profit. Embrace peace and justice. A Capitalist value works differently, it upholds profit at all cost.
4. Open our hearts to the saving power of God. From a distance foolishness and wisdom look alike but if we come closer we'll find that foolishness is an open mouth and wisdom is an open mind. In evangelization we need to approach it in a manner of discovery with an element of surprise rather than deciding which means we already have an idea of it. In discovery, God brought us to where we are although not fully revealing but trusting. We discover God and the wonders of His wisdom.
5. Build community
6. Identify and really call injustice as injustice. Accept and handle the truth. Sometimes the closer we are to power the farther we become to truth.
7. Work for a better society. Life is a gift from God but what we make of it is our gift to God.
To top it all, we need to realize that God is the Primary Agent of Evangelization. It is not about us but about God. He is the Chief Architect of it all. Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalm 71:1-2, 3-4a, 5ab-6ab, 15, 17
R: I will sing of your salvation.
1 In you, O LORD, I take refuge; let me never be put to shame. 2 In your justice rescue me, and deliver me; incline your ear to me, and save me...On you I depend from birth; from my mother’s womb you are my strength...My mouth shall declare your justice, ...
Today we celebrate the Memorial of the martyrdom of John the Baptist. When we are under pressure, do we stand up for what is right or we just go with the crowd because everyone else is doing it? We must ask the Lord to grant us the wisdom and the courage to do what is pleasing in His sight even if the world laughs at us. We, too, are called and challenged to imitate John the Baptist’s courageous act of witnessing —not necessarily in the form of a bloody beheading, of course. Today’s Christian martyrdoms are certainly more of a subtle and sophisticated kind. But perhaps, they are just as compelling and exigent — as when our moral principles are tested in our workplaces, or when our senses are bombarded by sexually suggestive images, or when we are scandalized by the bad examples of our leaders and celebrities, and so on." We all have our own personal Herod, Salome and worst our Herodias tendencies in life. Only we ourselves know these and what specific aspect it is in our lives. Unless we acknowledge them, firmly reject and stand up against it instead of yielding to it then we are no better than any of them. We must be aware of our stubbornness when we insist on doing things our way. Which reminds me of how we dress up, we sometimes insist on wearing something even if it doesn't fit us just because it is the "in" thing. The same way with our life we end up looking foolish when we insist on keeping up with the latest trend and fashion that this world offers when the only thing that is well fitted for us is to always wear the clothes of Jesus which is fashioned in the passion of the cross. We have to be the best dressed Christian. Amen. Hallelujah!
Holy Gospel of Jesus Christ according to Saint Mark 6,17-29.
...John had said to Herod, "It is not lawful for you to have your brother's wife." Herodias harbored a grudge against him and wanted to kill him...
Book of Jeremiah 1,17-19.
...They will fight against you, but not prevail over you, for I am with you to deliver you, says the LORD.
Our God is incomparable for He loves us with a love greater than any other. In God we find the most secure and safest shelter. Let us constantly build our confidence in God who never fails. There is really nowhere else to go but to Him alone. By just looking back at our past and present we can only come up with just one thing which is God is constantly at work and in charge of our lives for as long as we live. The mention of being called even from a mother’s womb, is one of the symbols of God’s words. The Word that reaches to the ends of the earth, penetrates the hearts of people and able to separate soul and spirit. It should be our duty to spread God’s Word.
The Principles of Catholic Evangelization
1. Live the gospel-use words only when necessary. Walk the talk
2. Challenge others by one's example and lifestyle
3. Uphold true values. People first than profit. Embrace peace and justice. A Capitalist value works differently, it upholds profit at all cost.
4. Open our hearts to the saving power of God. From a distance foolishness and wisdom look alike but if we come closer we'll find that foolishness is an open mouth and wisdom is an open mind. In evangelization we need to approach it in a manner of discovery with an element of surprise rather than deciding which means we already have an idea of it. In discovery, God brought us to where we are although not fully revealing but trusting. We discover God and the wonders of His wisdom.
5. Build community
6. Identify and really call injustice as injustice. Accept and handle the truth. Sometimes the closer we are to power the farther we become to truth.
7. Work for a better society. Life is a gift from God but what we make of it is our gift to God.
To top it all, we need to realize that God is the Primary Agent of Evangelization. It is not about us but about God. He is the Chief Architect of it all. Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalm 71:1-2, 3-4a, 5ab-6ab, 15, 17
R: I will sing of your salvation.
1 In you, O LORD, I take refuge; let me never be put to shame. 2 In your justice rescue me, and deliver me; incline your ear to me, and save me...On you I depend from birth; from my mother’s womb you are my strength...My mouth shall declare your justice, ...
Today we celebrate the Memorial of the martyrdom of John the Baptist. When we are under pressure, do we stand up for what is right or we just go with the crowd because everyone else is doing it? We must ask the Lord to grant us the wisdom and the courage to do what is pleasing in His sight even if the world laughs at us. We, too, are called and challenged to imitate John the Baptist’s courageous act of witnessing —not necessarily in the form of a bloody beheading, of course. Today’s Christian martyrdoms are certainly more of a subtle and sophisticated kind. But perhaps, they are just as compelling and exigent — as when our moral principles are tested in our workplaces, or when our senses are bombarded by sexually suggestive images, or when we are scandalized by the bad examples of our leaders and celebrities, and so on." We all have our own personal Herod, Salome and worst our Herodias tendencies in life. Only we ourselves know these and what specific aspect it is in our lives. Unless we acknowledge them, firmly reject and stand up against it instead of yielding to it then we are no better than any of them. We must be aware of our stubbornness when we insist on doing things our way. Which reminds me of how we dress up, we sometimes insist on wearing something even if it doesn't fit us just because it is the "in" thing. The same way with our life we end up looking foolish when we insist on keeping up with the latest trend and fashion that this world offers when the only thing that is well fitted for us is to always wear the clothes of Jesus which is fashioned in the passion of the cross. We have to be the best dressed Christian. Amen. Hallelujah!
Holy Gospel of Jesus Christ according to Saint Mark 6,17-29.
...John had said to Herod, "It is not lawful for you to have your brother's wife." Herodias harbored a grudge against him and wanted to kill him...
Sunday, August 28, 2011
BE TRANSFORMED
Today’s readings have become so memorable for me because they were the same readings on the occasion of my 1st SCRC Convention that I attended in August 31, 2008 and also happened to be my son’s birthday. I have felt tremendously the blessings that I received with the rest of the congregation from the SCRC Convention. I am very confident that they have been securely extended to our family and loved ones. I could still recall how my friend Bernadeth who was very sick at that time received healing from the Lord during the convention. I praise and thank God for activities like the SCRC that continue to enrich the life of the faithful. The new anointing from the Lord and the unforgettable first time experience which I felt in my heart back then have confirmed, affirmed, renewed and transformed everything that I hold dear in my heart and all other things whether it is good or bad as I have perceived it, up to this very moment. Amen. Hallelujah!
Jeremiah 20:7-9
...But then it becomes like fire burning in my heart, imprisoned in my bones; I grow weary holding it in, I cannot endure it.
Only the love of our Lord God can satisfy all our longings and desires. Nothing can separate us from the love of God. We can never find true satisfaction unless we find Jesus. “My soul is restless until it rests in You” (St. Augustine) Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalm 63:2, 3-4, 5-6, 8-9
R: (2b) My soul is thirsting for you, O Lord my God.
1 [2] O God, you are my God whom I seek; for you my flesh pines and my soul thirsts like the earth, parched, lifeless and without water.
No amount of wealth, fame and glory in this world can satisfy our longings. What are we doing on this earth? We are here to know, love and serve God. Where is our God? He is nearer to us than we are to ourselves. He is in the depths of our being every moment of day and night. St. Augustine said, "It is in knowing God that we know of ourselves." To know and to love God is to do the same for ourselves. We love our family, friends and work but do we stop at the gifts and miss the Giver. Remember, however weak or wayward or wicked we may be, God is madly in love with us whether or not we love Him because His nature and name is love. In an act of love he drew us out of nothing in the yesteryears and that love has sustained and enveloped us every single moment of our life. It is an act of love that we are still able draw the next breath of life. The moment He cease to love us for an instant, we will cease to be. How easy it is to put ourselves in the center of the universe. All we think about is our comfort, health, wealth and work. We are not the center of the universe, God is. We are here on this earth for a few fleeting years in which to serve God. St. Theresa of Avila took a private vow or oath never to waste a moment of time. She knew that the moment which secured heaven for the good seed would secure it for us too. Amen. Hallelujah!
Romans 12:1-2
...be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and pleasing and perfect
Our journey with God is a continuous struggle to allow God's will to happen in our lives. We should strive to succeed in our transformation and achieve to have the mind and attitude of God. Amen. Hallelujah!
Matthew 16:21-27
...You are thinking not as God does, but as human beings do..
Jeremiah 20:7-9
...But then it becomes like fire burning in my heart, imprisoned in my bones; I grow weary holding it in, I cannot endure it.
Only the love of our Lord God can satisfy all our longings and desires. Nothing can separate us from the love of God. We can never find true satisfaction unless we find Jesus. “My soul is restless until it rests in You” (St. Augustine) Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalm 63:2, 3-4, 5-6, 8-9
R: (2b) My soul is thirsting for you, O Lord my God.
1 [2] O God, you are my God whom I seek; for you my flesh pines and my soul thirsts like the earth, parched, lifeless and without water.
No amount of wealth, fame and glory in this world can satisfy our longings. What are we doing on this earth? We are here to know, love and serve God. Where is our God? He is nearer to us than we are to ourselves. He is in the depths of our being every moment of day and night. St. Augustine said, "It is in knowing God that we know of ourselves." To know and to love God is to do the same for ourselves. We love our family, friends and work but do we stop at the gifts and miss the Giver. Remember, however weak or wayward or wicked we may be, God is madly in love with us whether or not we love Him because His nature and name is love. In an act of love he drew us out of nothing in the yesteryears and that love has sustained and enveloped us every single moment of our life. It is an act of love that we are still able draw the next breath of life. The moment He cease to love us for an instant, we will cease to be. How easy it is to put ourselves in the center of the universe. All we think about is our comfort, health, wealth and work. We are not the center of the universe, God is. We are here on this earth for a few fleeting years in which to serve God. St. Theresa of Avila took a private vow or oath never to waste a moment of time. She knew that the moment which secured heaven for the good seed would secure it for us too. Amen. Hallelujah!
Romans 12:1-2
...be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and pleasing and perfect
Our journey with God is a continuous struggle to allow God's will to happen in our lives. We should strive to succeed in our transformation and achieve to have the mind and attitude of God. Amen. Hallelujah!
Matthew 16:21-27
...You are thinking not as God does, but as human beings do..
Saturday, August 27, 2011
WE’VE GOT TALENT
I could never forget that day when my computer was bugged down but in less than 24 hours, was restored back to normal and in good running condition. This happened almost 2 years ago from now and vowed to always share this for God’s glory. In fact I already did the day before yesterday. Hendrie is the person I am talking about. He fixed my computer at that time when he was still residing in Cerritos which is almost an hour drive from our place. Everything just happened so quickly because he happened to be online and chanced upon him in the Yahoo messenger. It was really a blessing that even before my computer totally crashed he was already there giving me the necessary instructions that helped me to still keep it functioning even in safe mode. Aside from the fact that Hendrie is indeed a brilliant and talented computer fixer, I should say he was just exactly when, where and how I needed him since he was at the right time, place and situation. He told me that he will be around the area in the evening of that day it happened and offered to pick up my laptop, was able to fix it and brought it back to me within 24 hours. Everything just fell into place I must say. Since it also happened that he had to be in St. Christopher in West Covina because he is a member of the El Shaddai choir who sang in the healing mass prior to the day this happened. I must admit that if Hendrie did not come to my rescue at that particular time then my computer could have had irreversible damages. I could had been in a total mess. Those people who are close to me know how important this computer is to me especially as a tool to always keep in touch with my family in the Philippines. It all amazingly happened and undeniably worked out by an All Knowing God who sees every single thing that happens to us. I would like to borrow the words in today's 1st reading again as I had done in the past and address it to all our brothers and sisters in Christ most especially to Hendrie. Amen. Hallelujah!
1 Thessalonians 4:9-11
9 Brothers and sisters: On the subject of mutual charity you have no need for anyone to write you, for you yourselves have been taught by God to love one another. 10 Indeed, you do this for all the brothers throughout Macedonia. Nevertheless we urge you, brothers, to progress even more, 11 and to aspire to live a tranquil life, to mind your own affairs, and to work with your own hands, as we instructed you...
At the time this incident with my computer happened, it was also the same time that I heard and was touched by the homily of Fr. Joseph Magdaong in the healing mass at St. Christopher where Hendrie was serving as singer in the choir. It has been 2 years since I heard about this story of a tailor and his needle but I would never forget and always remember it especially the perfect timing and situation when I heard it. This tailor who was about to die spoke his last and they were these words, "Give me my key to heaven." At first those people who were there and heard him did not understand what he was talking about until they realized that he was asking for his needle. In the same way we must have our own keys in heaven as we try to examine ourselves and find out what is it in our life that can be compared to that needle in a tailor's life or our special talents that we can offer to God. I could still very well remember that I was on the verge of tears upon hearing that because I immediately thought of this computer that I am using to spread the word of God through my everyday reflections on the word of God that I write and share to others through e mail. I am just full of gratitude and joy in my heart for all the amazing things that God had done especially of the fact that this computer which I consider the needle in my life remained in perfect condition since that time on. Amen. Hallelujah!
P S A L M Psalm 98:1. 7-8. 9
R: The Lord comes to rule the earth with justice.
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) 7 Let the sea and what fills it resound, the world and those who dwell in it; 8 let the rivers clap their hands, the mountains shout with them for joy
In today's parable we learn that a man went on a journey, called in his servants and entrusted his possessions to them. To one he gave five talents; to another, two; to a third, one — to each according to his ability. After a long time the master of those servants came back and settled accounts with them. The one who had received five talents came forward bringing the additional five and the one who had received two talents also came forward and did the same. They both doubled their talents but the one who received one talent, he just buried it in the ground and gave it back. The master's reaction to the first 2 servants who doubled their talents were expected because he was glad that they were faithful in small matters so he told them that he will entrust them with great responsibilities and invited them to share in his joy. But to the 3rd servant his reaction was quite unexpected because he was addressed with very harsh words such as wicked and lazy which are seldom used in the New Testament. He was called wicked because he did nothing. If we can still recall, Jesus told us the story of Lazarus and the rich man in Luke 16:19-31. The rich man went to hell not because he did something wrong but because he did nothing to help Lazarus who is right outside his door. Doing nothing is wicked. We can lose so much to the point where we deserve hell. We all have responsibilities in our hands and we have to fulfill them by trusting that God is with us. Hey, we've got talent thus we can do all things through Him. Amen. Hallelujah!
Matthew 25:14-30
...‘You wicked, lazy servant! So you knew that I harvest where I did not plant and gather where I did not scatter? 27 Should you not then have put my money in the bank so that I could have got it back with interest on my return? 28 Now then! Take the talent from him and give it to the one with ten. 29 For to everyone who has, more will be given and he will grow rich; but from the one who has not, even what he has will be taken away. 30
1 Thessalonians 4:9-11
9 Brothers and sisters: On the subject of mutual charity you have no need for anyone to write you, for you yourselves have been taught by God to love one another. 10 Indeed, you do this for all the brothers throughout Macedonia. Nevertheless we urge you, brothers, to progress even more, 11 and to aspire to live a tranquil life, to mind your own affairs, and to work with your own hands, as we instructed you...
At the time this incident with my computer happened, it was also the same time that I heard and was touched by the homily of Fr. Joseph Magdaong in the healing mass at St. Christopher where Hendrie was serving as singer in the choir. It has been 2 years since I heard about this story of a tailor and his needle but I would never forget and always remember it especially the perfect timing and situation when I heard it. This tailor who was about to die spoke his last and they were these words, "Give me my key to heaven." At first those people who were there and heard him did not understand what he was talking about until they realized that he was asking for his needle. In the same way we must have our own keys in heaven as we try to examine ourselves and find out what is it in our life that can be compared to that needle in a tailor's life or our special talents that we can offer to God. I could still very well remember that I was on the verge of tears upon hearing that because I immediately thought of this computer that I am using to spread the word of God through my everyday reflections on the word of God that I write and share to others through e mail. I am just full of gratitude and joy in my heart for all the amazing things that God had done especially of the fact that this computer which I consider the needle in my life remained in perfect condition since that time on. Amen. Hallelujah!
P S A L M Psalm 98:1. 7-8. 9
R: The Lord comes to rule the earth with justice.
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) 7 Let the sea and what fills it resound, the world and those who dwell in it; 8 let the rivers clap their hands, the mountains shout with them for joy
In today's parable we learn that a man went on a journey, called in his servants and entrusted his possessions to them. To one he gave five talents; to another, two; to a third, one — to each according to his ability. After a long time the master of those servants came back and settled accounts with them. The one who had received five talents came forward bringing the additional five and the one who had received two talents also came forward and did the same. They both doubled their talents but the one who received one talent, he just buried it in the ground and gave it back. The master's reaction to the first 2 servants who doubled their talents were expected because he was glad that they were faithful in small matters so he told them that he will entrust them with great responsibilities and invited them to share in his joy. But to the 3rd servant his reaction was quite unexpected because he was addressed with very harsh words such as wicked and lazy which are seldom used in the New Testament. He was called wicked because he did nothing. If we can still recall, Jesus told us the story of Lazarus and the rich man in Luke 16:19-31. The rich man went to hell not because he did something wrong but because he did nothing to help Lazarus who is right outside his door. Doing nothing is wicked. We can lose so much to the point where we deserve hell. We all have responsibilities in our hands and we have to fulfill them by trusting that God is with us. Hey, we've got talent thus we can do all things through Him. Amen. Hallelujah!
Matthew 25:14-30
...‘You wicked, lazy servant! So you knew that I harvest where I did not plant and gather where I did not scatter? 27 Should you not then have put my money in the bank so that I could have got it back with interest on my return? 28 Now then! Take the talent from him and give it to the one with ten. 29 For to everyone who has, more will be given and he will grow rich; but from the one who has not, even what he has will be taken away. 30
Friday, August 26, 2011
IN PERFECT SHAPE
I have always heard how a lot of people get amazed at the stories of conversion of some very despicable people who still turned out to be saints. It was almost like an impossibility if we were to look at the kind of lives they were living back then. It took a while as in very long years that seemed like forever before some of them finally got into perfect shape before the eyes of God. The likes of St. Augustine whose feast day we will be celebrating in a couple of days is an example of this long process of conversion through the persistent prayers of his mother St. Monica. Now, he is one of the greatest minds the Church has known and the most quoted of all writers in Church documents. The depth and breadth of his writings is truly a testimony of his commitment to seek out the truth. We could really get a lot of inspiration from saints like them. If there’s one thing we could learn from this then it is the truth that God will never give up in reminding us of our call as in today's 1st reading. Amen. Hallelujah!
1 Thessalonians 4:1-8
...For God did not call us to impurity but to holiness. 8 Therefore, whoever disregards this, disregards not a human being but God, who also gives his Holy Spirit to you...
Whenever we are faced with problems and difficulties in life we should always find consolation in a God whom nothing is lost for He knows and sees all. We may still not be in perfect shape for the Lord but God is constantly at work in those who are just and upright of heart. Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalm 97:1 and 2b. 5-6. 10. 11-12
R: Rejoice in the Lord, you just!
...The LORD loves those that hate evil; he guards the lives of his faithful ones; from the hand of the wicked he delivers them. (R) 11 Light dawns for the just; and gladness, for the upright of heart...
If there’s one thing I am sure of then it’s the fact that I am very sensitive to coffee or anything with caffeine. I always end up not being able to sleep and still awake even until the wee hours of the morning whenever I drink anything with this substance. It works for me as an upper that makes me feel energized and could go on and stay up for the rest of the night without sleep. Today's gospel speaks of the need to always be alert, awake and prepared in order to enter the kingdom of heaven. This is the 2nd time since yesterday's gospel that God is warning us to always stay awake. It is not enough, as we can see from the story, to just wait, we've got to be wise and alert because we really never know the day nor the hour when the Second coming of the Lord is. I guess, one way or another we've experienced being too sleepy or inattentive that we've totally missed something. It is a very awful feeling that we have to go through but nothing could be more awful than to hear these words of Jesus in today's gospel (‘Amen, I say to you, I do not know you.’ ) when that hour comes. It is really imperative that we are always ready an alert at all times. There are certain preparations that we need to do and be in perfect shape in order for us to make it through the door to God's Kingdom. We can't take any chances here and really be wise and resourceful in employing all means because what's at stake is not simply an entrance to a limited engagement or a lifetime but eternity. Amen. Hallelujah!
Mt 25:1-13
Jesus told his disciples this parable: “The Kingdom of heaven will be like ten virgins who took their lamps and went out to meet the bridegroom. Five of them were foolish and five were wise. The foolish ones, when taking their lamps, brought no oil with them, but the wise brought flasks of oil with their lamps. Since the bridegroom was long delayed, they all became drowsy and fell asleep. At midnight, there was a cry, ‘Behold, the bridegroom! Come out to meet him!’ Then all those virgins got up and trimmed their lamps. The foolish ones said to the wise, ‘Give us some of your oil, for our lamps are going out.’ But the wise ones replied, ‘No, for there may not be enough for us and you. Go instead to the merchants and buy some for yourselves.’ While they went off to buy it, the bridegroom came and those who were ready went into the wedding feast with him. Then the door was locked. Afterwards the other virgins came and said, ‘Lord, Lord, open the door for us!’ But he said in reply, ‘Amen, I say to you, I do not know you.’ Therefore, stay awake, for you know neither the day nor the hour.”
1 Thessalonians 4:1-8
...For God did not call us to impurity but to holiness. 8 Therefore, whoever disregards this, disregards not a human being but God, who also gives his Holy Spirit to you...
Whenever we are faced with problems and difficulties in life we should always find consolation in a God whom nothing is lost for He knows and sees all. We may still not be in perfect shape for the Lord but God is constantly at work in those who are just and upright of heart. Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalm 97:1 and 2b. 5-6. 10. 11-12
R: Rejoice in the Lord, you just!
...The LORD loves those that hate evil; he guards the lives of his faithful ones; from the hand of the wicked he delivers them. (R) 11 Light dawns for the just; and gladness, for the upright of heart...
If there’s one thing I am sure of then it’s the fact that I am very sensitive to coffee or anything with caffeine. I always end up not being able to sleep and still awake even until the wee hours of the morning whenever I drink anything with this substance. It works for me as an upper that makes me feel energized and could go on and stay up for the rest of the night without sleep. Today's gospel speaks of the need to always be alert, awake and prepared in order to enter the kingdom of heaven. This is the 2nd time since yesterday's gospel that God is warning us to always stay awake. It is not enough, as we can see from the story, to just wait, we've got to be wise and alert because we really never know the day nor the hour when the Second coming of the Lord is. I guess, one way or another we've experienced being too sleepy or inattentive that we've totally missed something. It is a very awful feeling that we have to go through but nothing could be more awful than to hear these words of Jesus in today's gospel (‘Amen, I say to you, I do not know you.’ ) when that hour comes. It is really imperative that we are always ready an alert at all times. There are certain preparations that we need to do and be in perfect shape in order for us to make it through the door to God's Kingdom. We can't take any chances here and really be wise and resourceful in employing all means because what's at stake is not simply an entrance to a limited engagement or a lifetime but eternity. Amen. Hallelujah!
Mt 25:1-13
Jesus told his disciples this parable: “The Kingdom of heaven will be like ten virgins who took their lamps and went out to meet the bridegroom. Five of them were foolish and five were wise. The foolish ones, when taking their lamps, brought no oil with them, but the wise brought flasks of oil with their lamps. Since the bridegroom was long delayed, they all became drowsy and fell asleep. At midnight, there was a cry, ‘Behold, the bridegroom! Come out to meet him!’ Then all those virgins got up and trimmed their lamps. The foolish ones said to the wise, ‘Give us some of your oil, for our lamps are going out.’ But the wise ones replied, ‘No, for there may not be enough for us and you. Go instead to the merchants and buy some for yourselves.’ While they went off to buy it, the bridegroom came and those who were ready went into the wedding feast with him. Then the door was locked. Afterwards the other virgins came and said, ‘Lord, Lord, open the door for us!’ But he said in reply, ‘Amen, I say to you, I do not know you.’ Therefore, stay awake, for you know neither the day nor the hour.”
Thursday, August 25, 2011
KEEP WATCH!
Recently I was able to connect with a friend and brother in Christ whom I haven't seen and talked to for a long time already. It is very timely indeed that he is now residing in Singapore since my son is scheduled to go there next month. He gave me his number so that my son could contact him while he is in Singapore. Every time I encounter him I am always blessed especially by his devotion and dedication to the Lord. Bro. Hendrie is a good man with a strong faith in God. He is always ready to lend a helping hand to those in need and would never hesitate to go out of his way even to the point of inconvenience. I could never forget how he had helped me several times with problems regarding my computer which has brought me to the point of calling him Mattathias. Mattathias is a bible character in the Old Testament who fought hard for his faith during that severe time of trial and hardship for the people of God. He eliminated the enemy of his faith with such zeal and bravery. At that time when my computer was bugged down I was definitely in serious trouble. This computer is not just what it may generally seem to be. I consider it as my key to heaven. This has reference to the story I heard about a tailor who is about to die. This tailor was asking his loved ones to bring before him his key to heaven. At first they were confused as to what key he is referring to but later on find out being a tailor it was his needle that he considers his key to heaven. This made me say that I consider my laptop as my key to heaven. This computer is what I am using to spread the word of God through my everyday reflections on the word of God that I write and share to others through e mail. When it was assailed with very harmful viruses that rendered it unserviceable, it was Hendrie who fixed it. This is the reason why I considered Hendrie as the fixer of my key to heaven and called him Mattathias who eliminated and tore down all threats and viruses of my key to heaven. I am sure that he is a source of inspiration not only for me but also to a lot of people who know him in the same way that Paul feels for the Thessalonians in today's 1st reading. Amen. Hallelujah!
1 Thessalonians 3:7-13 7 We have been reassured about you, brothers, in our every distress and affliction, through your faith. 8 For we now live, if you stand firm in the Lord. 9 What thanksgiving, then, can we render to God for you, for all the joy we feel on your account before our God? 10 Night and day we pray beyond measure to see you in person and to remedy the deficiencies of your faith. 11 Now may God himself, our Father, and our Lord Jesus direct our way to you, 12 and may the Lord make you increase and abound in love for one another and for all, just as we have for you, 13 so as to strengthen your hearts, to be blameless in holiness before our God and Father at the coming of our Lord Jesus with all his holy ones. Amen.
It is through these people who continue to be a source of inspiration and blessing for the community of God that I can gather the strength and courage to keep on fighting a good fight of the faith. Amen. Hallelujah!
P S A L M Psalm 90:3-4a. 12-13. 14 and 17
R: Fill us with your love, O Lord, and we will sing for joy!
...Teach us to number our days aright, that we may gain wisdom of heart. 13 Return, O LORD! How long? Have pity on your servants! ...And may the gracious care of the Lord our God be ours; prosper the work of our hands for us!...
Today’s gospel is a kind of wake up call for us Christians who claim to be faithful followers of Jesus. We should always think that we are always lacking when it comes to serving God. We should not think that if we are observing all the commandments and living a holy life then we are already holier than thou people rather we should always keep our feet on the ground and always strive to keep our focus on God for we might be led astray. It is in these off guard moments when we sometimes miss an important thing or in just a wink of an eye lose something that we've been waiting and watching out for. Before we know it, it is gone or has just passed us by. As in today's gospel, we really have to stay awake and keep watch! Blessed Teresa of Calcutta wrote, “One thing that will always secure heaven for us: acts of charity and kindness with which we have filled our lives. We will never know how much good just a simple smile can do. We tell people how kind, forgiving and understanding God is – are we the living proof? Can they really see this kindness, this forgiveness, this understanding in us?” These are very good questions we ought to ask ourselves and if we can answer this truthfully with our hearts then we are ready anytime for the coming of the Master. Amen. Hallelujah!
Matthew 24:42-51
42 Jesus said to his disciples: “Stay awake! For you do not know on which day your Lord will come. 43 Be sure of this: if the master of the house had known the hour of night when the thief was coming, he would have stayed awake and not let his house be broken into. 44 So too, you also must be prepared, for at an hour you do not expect, the Son of Man will come...
1 Thessalonians 3:7-13 7 We have been reassured about you, brothers, in our every distress and affliction, through your faith. 8 For we now live, if you stand firm in the Lord. 9 What thanksgiving, then, can we render to God for you, for all the joy we feel on your account before our God? 10 Night and day we pray beyond measure to see you in person and to remedy the deficiencies of your faith. 11 Now may God himself, our Father, and our Lord Jesus direct our way to you, 12 and may the Lord make you increase and abound in love for one another and for all, just as we have for you, 13 so as to strengthen your hearts, to be blameless in holiness before our God and Father at the coming of our Lord Jesus with all his holy ones. Amen.
It is through these people who continue to be a source of inspiration and blessing for the community of God that I can gather the strength and courage to keep on fighting a good fight of the faith. Amen. Hallelujah!
P S A L M Psalm 90:3-4a. 12-13. 14 and 17
R: Fill us with your love, O Lord, and we will sing for joy!
...Teach us to number our days aright, that we may gain wisdom of heart. 13 Return, O LORD! How long? Have pity on your servants! ...And may the gracious care of the Lord our God be ours; prosper the work of our hands for us!...
Today’s gospel is a kind of wake up call for us Christians who claim to be faithful followers of Jesus. We should always think that we are always lacking when it comes to serving God. We should not think that if we are observing all the commandments and living a holy life then we are already holier than thou people rather we should always keep our feet on the ground and always strive to keep our focus on God for we might be led astray. It is in these off guard moments when we sometimes miss an important thing or in just a wink of an eye lose something that we've been waiting and watching out for. Before we know it, it is gone or has just passed us by. As in today's gospel, we really have to stay awake and keep watch! Blessed Teresa of Calcutta wrote, “One thing that will always secure heaven for us: acts of charity and kindness with which we have filled our lives. We will never know how much good just a simple smile can do. We tell people how kind, forgiving and understanding God is – are we the living proof? Can they really see this kindness, this forgiveness, this understanding in us?” These are very good questions we ought to ask ourselves and if we can answer this truthfully with our hearts then we are ready anytime for the coming of the Master. Amen. Hallelujah!
Matthew 24:42-51
42 Jesus said to his disciples: “Stay awake! For you do not know on which day your Lord will come. 43 Be sure of this: if the master of the house had known the hour of night when the thief was coming, he would have stayed awake and not let his house be broken into. 44 So too, you also must be prepared, for at an hour you do not expect, the Son of Man will come...
Wednesday, August 24, 2011
RESIST AND GO THROUGH IT
Whenever I encounter readings like one in today’s 1st reading that speak of the splendor of heaven what quickly comes to mind is the passage from 1 Cor.2:9 But as it is written: "What eye has not seen, and ear has not heard, and what has not entered the human heart, what God has prepared for those who love him," Let us continuously work toward this goal and not lose sight of it. It may not yet be fully seen, heard and known of up to this present time but we hold on to God's word who have spoken and is able to make all things possible. It is very difficult to have a clear picture of how heaven looks like. The 1st reading today somehow gave a glimpse of it although it is never as accurate as it can possibly be. We can only guess and imagine for no one alive today has ever actually seen it. There were accounts of people who claimed to have died for a short while and were transported into a place that looks like heaven. We have not totally departed from our bodies which belongs to this world that's why it's still difficult for us to grasp the reality about heaven or even hell and purgatory. We are still in this world and we are still bound and attached to the values of this world that we are presently in. But the moment we die that is the only time that we become in touch with these realities. Unless our souls depart our human bodies which belongs to this world, we can never truly appreciate what heaven is all about. Only our spirit that come from God will remain with us when the final hour in this world comes. Amen. Hallelujah!
Revelation 21:9b-14
...He took me in spirit to a great, high mountain and showed me the holy city Jerusalem coming down out of heaven from God. 11 It gleamed with the splendor of God. Its radiance was like that of a precious stone, like jasper, clear as crystal. 12 It had a massive, high wall,...
If we are always mindful of the words of God written in the bible then we can truly say that it is indeed what its acronym stands for which is B - basic I-instructions B-before L-leaving E-earth. It is very important that we have read and understood well what is written in the bible before we exit this world. This reminds me of the video games that my sons used to play. When they finish one level they have to enter into the next level which is more difficult and so on and so forth until they reach the ultimate task and win the final battle. It was like they needed to be well prepared and more skillful for each level. This somehow reminds us of how we should approach our final day here on earth. The gate of heaven has been opened and made accessible for us, there is no question about it but the question is, "Are we ready and able to go through it?" As in Eph. 6:13, "Therefore, put on the armor of God, that you may be able to resist on the evil day and, having done everything, to hold your ground." Another thing is the fact that we have no idea when will that day be because we really never know the time nor the hour. One thing for sure, the only way to go through it is by being well prepared for it. Another thing that I wanted to share is this story which I got from an email. The story goes like this.
Once upon a time there was a rich King who had four wives.
He loved the 4th wife the most and adored her with rich robes and treated her to the finest of delicacies. He gave her nothing but the best.
He also loved the 3rd wife very much and was always showing her off to neighboring kingdoms. However, he feared that one day she would leave him for another.
He also loved his 2nd wife. She was his confidant and was always kind, considerate and patient with him. Whenever the King faced a problem, he could confide in her, and she would help him get through the difficult times.
The King's 1st wife was a very loyal partner and had made great contributions in maintaining his wealth and kingdom. However, he did not love the first wife. Although she loved him deeply, he hardly took notice of her!
One day, the King fell ill and he knew his time was short. He thought of his luxurious life and wondered, I now have four wives with me, but when I die, I'll be all alone.'
Thus, he asked the 4th wife , 'I loved you the most, endowed you with the finest clothing and showered great care over you. Now that I'm dying, will you follow me and keep me company?'
'No way!', replied the 4th wife, and she walked away without another word.
Her answer cut like a sharp knife right into his heart.
The sad King then asked the 3rd wife, 'I loved you all my life. Now that I'm dying, will you follow me and keep me company?'
'No!', replied the 3rd wife. 'Life is too good! When you die, I'm going to remarry!'
His heart sank and turned cold.
He then asked the 2nd wife, 'I have always turned to you for help and you've always been there for me.
When I die, will you follow me and keep me company?'
'I'm sorry, I can't help you out this time!', replied the 2nd wife. 'At the very most, I can only walk with you to your grave.'
Her answer struck him like a bolt of lightning, and the King was devastated.
Then a voice called out: 'I'll go with you. I'll follow you no matter where you go.'
The King looked up, and there was his first wife. She was very skinny as she suffered from malnutrition and neglect.
Greatly grieved, the King said, 'I should have taken much better care of you when I had the chance!'
In truth, we all have the 4 wives in our lives:
Our 4th wife is our body. No matter how much time and effort we lavish in making it look good, it will leave us when we die.
Our 3rd wife is our possessions, status and wealth. When we die, it will all go to others.
Our 2nd wife is our family and friends. No matter how much they have been there for us, the furthest they can stay by us is up to the grave.
And our 1st wife is our Soul. Often neglected in pursuit of wealth, power and pleasures of the world.
However, our Soul is the only thing that will follow us wherever we go. Cultivate, strengthen and cherish it now, for it is the only part of us that will follow us to the throne of God and continue with us throughout Eternity. Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalms 145:10-11, 12-13, 17-18
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) 17 The LORD is just in all his ways and holy in all his works. 18 The LORD is near to all who call upon him, to all who call upon him in truth. (R)
If we are clueless about a lot of things including when our last day here on earth will be then we can be assured that there is someone who knows all of these things. Today's gospel gives us a glimpse of Jesus' true divinity. He is God and Immortal, nothing is hidden from Him and everything is known to Him. It gives us confidence knowing that we have a God who is able to carry us through. We can learn from Nathaniel or St. Bartholomew as we celebrate his feast day today as we profess with confidence the very words that he said to Jesus and really believe in words, thoughts and deeds. Amen. Hallelujah!
John 1:45-51
...Here is a true Israelite. There is no duplicity in him.” 48 Nathanael said to him, “How do you know me?” Jesus answered and said to him, “Before Philip called you, I saw you under the fig tree.” 49 Nathanael answered him, “Rabbi, you are the Son of God; you are the King of Israel.” 50 Jesus answered and said to him, “Do you believe because I told you that I saw you under the fig tree? You will see greater things than this.” 51 And he said to him, “Amen, amen, I say to you, you will see the sky opened and the angels of God ascending and descending on the Son of Man.”
Revelation 21:9b-14
...He took me in spirit to a great, high mountain and showed me the holy city Jerusalem coming down out of heaven from God. 11 It gleamed with the splendor of God. Its radiance was like that of a precious stone, like jasper, clear as crystal. 12 It had a massive, high wall,...
If we are always mindful of the words of God written in the bible then we can truly say that it is indeed what its acronym stands for which is B - basic I-instructions B-before L-leaving E-earth. It is very important that we have read and understood well what is written in the bible before we exit this world. This reminds me of the video games that my sons used to play. When they finish one level they have to enter into the next level which is more difficult and so on and so forth until they reach the ultimate task and win the final battle. It was like they needed to be well prepared and more skillful for each level. This somehow reminds us of how we should approach our final day here on earth. The gate of heaven has been opened and made accessible for us, there is no question about it but the question is, "Are we ready and able to go through it?" As in Eph. 6:13, "Therefore, put on the armor of God, that you may be able to resist on the evil day and, having done everything, to hold your ground." Another thing is the fact that we have no idea when will that day be because we really never know the time nor the hour. One thing for sure, the only way to go through it is by being well prepared for it. Another thing that I wanted to share is this story which I got from an email. The story goes like this.
Once upon a time there was a rich King who had four wives.
He loved the 4th wife the most and adored her with rich robes and treated her to the finest of delicacies. He gave her nothing but the best.
He also loved the 3rd wife very much and was always showing her off to neighboring kingdoms. However, he feared that one day she would leave him for another.
He also loved his 2nd wife. She was his confidant and was always kind, considerate and patient with him. Whenever the King faced a problem, he could confide in her, and she would help him get through the difficult times.
The King's 1st wife was a very loyal partner and had made great contributions in maintaining his wealth and kingdom. However, he did not love the first wife. Although she loved him deeply, he hardly took notice of her!
One day, the King fell ill and he knew his time was short. He thought of his luxurious life and wondered, I now have four wives with me, but when I die, I'll be all alone.'
Thus, he asked the 4th wife , 'I loved you the most, endowed you with the finest clothing and showered great care over you. Now that I'm dying, will you follow me and keep me company?'
'No way!', replied the 4th wife, and she walked away without another word.
Her answer cut like a sharp knife right into his heart.
The sad King then asked the 3rd wife, 'I loved you all my life. Now that I'm dying, will you follow me and keep me company?'
'No!', replied the 3rd wife. 'Life is too good! When you die, I'm going to remarry!'
His heart sank and turned cold.
He then asked the 2nd wife, 'I have always turned to you for help and you've always been there for me.
When I die, will you follow me and keep me company?'
'I'm sorry, I can't help you out this time!', replied the 2nd wife. 'At the very most, I can only walk with you to your grave.'
Her answer struck him like a bolt of lightning, and the King was devastated.
Then a voice called out: 'I'll go with you. I'll follow you no matter where you go.'
The King looked up, and there was his first wife. She was very skinny as she suffered from malnutrition and neglect.
Greatly grieved, the King said, 'I should have taken much better care of you when I had the chance!'
In truth, we all have the 4 wives in our lives:
Our 4th wife is our body. No matter how much time and effort we lavish in making it look good, it will leave us when we die.
Our 3rd wife is our possessions, status and wealth. When we die, it will all go to others.
Our 2nd wife is our family and friends. No matter how much they have been there for us, the furthest they can stay by us is up to the grave.
And our 1st wife is our Soul. Often neglected in pursuit of wealth, power and pleasures of the world.
However, our Soul is the only thing that will follow us wherever we go. Cultivate, strengthen and cherish it now, for it is the only part of us that will follow us to the throne of God and continue with us throughout Eternity. Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalms 145:10-11, 12-13, 17-18
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) 17 The LORD is just in all his ways and holy in all his works. 18 The LORD is near to all who call upon him, to all who call upon him in truth. (R)
If we are clueless about a lot of things including when our last day here on earth will be then we can be assured that there is someone who knows all of these things. Today's gospel gives us a glimpse of Jesus' true divinity. He is God and Immortal, nothing is hidden from Him and everything is known to Him. It gives us confidence knowing that we have a God who is able to carry us through. We can learn from Nathaniel or St. Bartholomew as we celebrate his feast day today as we profess with confidence the very words that he said to Jesus and really believe in words, thoughts and deeds. Amen. Hallelujah!
John 1:45-51
...Here is a true Israelite. There is no duplicity in him.” 48 Nathanael said to him, “How do you know me?” Jesus answered and said to him, “Before Philip called you, I saw you under the fig tree.” 49 Nathanael answered him, “Rabbi, you are the Son of God; you are the King of Israel.” 50 Jesus answered and said to him, “Do you believe because I told you that I saw you under the fig tree? You will see greater things than this.” 51 And he said to him, “Amen, amen, I say to you, you will see the sky opened and the angels of God ascending and descending on the Son of Man.”
Tuesday, August 23, 2011
BROTHERS AND SISTERS IN CHRIST
A couple of years ago I had a serious concern that bothered our brothers and sisters in the community. It even came to a point that they are willing to really go out of their boundaries just to help me out. Looking back at all those things that happened I could still feel the love, concern and all out support of these people. God is indeed present in these brothers and sisters who are not far in comparison to these followers of Jesus in today's 1st reading. Amen. Hallelujah!
1 Thessalonians 2:1-8
...Rather, we were gentle among you, as a nursing mother cares for her children. 8 With such affection for you, we were determined to share with you not only the gospel of God, but our very selves as well, so dearly beloved had you become to us...
Nothing is ever hidden from you, Oh. Lord!
Psalm 139:1-3. 4-6
R: You have searched me and you know me, Lord.
1 O LORD, you have probed me and you know me; 2 you know when I sit and when I stand; you understand my thoughts from afar. 3 My journeys and my rest you scrutinize, with all my ways you are familiar. (R) 4 Even before a word is on my tongue, behold, O LORD, you know the whole of it. 5 Behind me and before, you hem me in and rest your hand upon me. 6 Such knowledge is too wonderful for me; too lofty for me to attain. (R)
Sometimes we are too focused and disturbed about something that we tend to forget the more important or essential thing. The gospel for today is telling us exactly that. We should always put God in the center of everything we do. Or we should always keep in mind that Jesus knows all our motivations and intentions. Whenever we act on it we should be able to confidently say that Jesus is very pleased with it. We should be able to honestly and confidently admit to God that our actions are based on what is truly pleasing to Him. Amen. Hallelujah!
Matthew 23:23-26
23 Jesus said: “Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, you hypocrites. You pay tithes of mint and dill and cumin, and have neglected the weightier things of the law: judgment and mercy and fidelity. But these you should have done, without neglecting the others. 24 Blind guides, who strain out the gnat and swallow the camel! 25 “Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, you hypocrites. You cleanse the outside of cup and dish, but inside they are full of plunder and self-indulgence. 26 Blind Pharisee, cleanse first the inside of the cup, so that the outside also may be clean.”
1 Thessalonians 2:1-8
...Rather, we were gentle among you, as a nursing mother cares for her children. 8 With such affection for you, we were determined to share with you not only the gospel of God, but our very selves as well, so dearly beloved had you become to us...
Nothing is ever hidden from you, Oh. Lord!
Psalm 139:1-3. 4-6
R: You have searched me and you know me, Lord.
1 O LORD, you have probed me and you know me; 2 you know when I sit and when I stand; you understand my thoughts from afar. 3 My journeys and my rest you scrutinize, with all my ways you are familiar. (R) 4 Even before a word is on my tongue, behold, O LORD, you know the whole of it. 5 Behind me and before, you hem me in and rest your hand upon me. 6 Such knowledge is too wonderful for me; too lofty for me to attain. (R)
Sometimes we are too focused and disturbed about something that we tend to forget the more important or essential thing. The gospel for today is telling us exactly that. We should always put God in the center of everything we do. Or we should always keep in mind that Jesus knows all our motivations and intentions. Whenever we act on it we should be able to confidently say that Jesus is very pleased with it. We should be able to honestly and confidently admit to God that our actions are based on what is truly pleasing to Him. Amen. Hallelujah!
Matthew 23:23-26
23 Jesus said: “Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, you hypocrites. You pay tithes of mint and dill and cumin, and have neglected the weightier things of the law: judgment and mercy and fidelity. But these you should have done, without neglecting the others. 24 Blind guides, who strain out the gnat and swallow the camel! 25 “Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, you hypocrites. You cleanse the outside of cup and dish, but inside they are full of plunder and self-indulgence. 26 Blind Pharisee, cleanse first the inside of the cup, so that the outside also may be clean.”
Monday, August 22, 2011
SETTLE FOR GOD’S BEST
Today’s 1st reading which is a letter of Paul to the Thessalonians reminds me of our weekly prayer meetings. It is a picture of what St. Paul said because it gave me a sense of security and confidence that even though I am far from the embrace of my own family I am so blessed to have brothers and sisters in the community who give me confidence in the knowledge that I am not alone in enduring in our hope in the Lord Jesus Christ. Amen. Hallelujah!
1 Thessalonians 1:2-5, 8-10
2 Paul, Silvanus and Timothy to the Church of the Thessalonians in God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ: grace to you and peace. We give thanks to God always for all of you, remembering you in our prayers, unceasingly 3 calling to mind your work of faith and labor of love and endurance in hope of our Lord Jesus Christ, before our God and Father, 4 knowing, brothers and sisters loved by God, how you were chosen. 5 For our gospel did not come to you in word alone, but also in power and in the Holy Spirit and with much conviction. You know what sort of people we were among you for your sake. 8 In every place your faith in God has gone forth, so that we have no need to say anything. 9 For they themselves openly declare about us what sort of reception we had among you, and how you turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God 10 and to await his Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead, Jesus, who delivers us from the coming wrath.
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. If we are faithful to God then we can claim all the benefits of being God's chosen people. 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...For the LORD loves his people, and he adorns the lowly with victory. Let the faithful exult in glory; let them sing for joy upon their couches; 6 let the high praises of God be in their throats. 9 This is the glory of all his faithful. Alleluia
If there are things that come to my mind upon reading today's gospel then these are the unpleasant things and disappointments we encounter in life. We can never get away from these things since there will always come a time when we are confronted with situations in our lives when we just can't tolerate things anymore. Or we encounter people who just do not get it or refuse to get it. Jesus called them the hypocrites, the blind guides and fools. Whew! Even Jesus came to a point when he has to label them as such just to get His point or message across to us. It is very tiring when we are around these kind of people because they simply do not want to listen and insist on the wrong they are doing. We too are no different from these scribes and Pharisees if we are not open to the instructions of God to us and continue to follow our own way. Misunderstandings and misconceptions can be corrected and reformed through proper information and counseling but the outright disregard and disobedience on our part is another thing. This is what Jesus is emphasizing here in the gospel. Let us not be stubborn anymore and be mindful of what God is telling us. There are times when people question our decisions without realizing the basis for it. Sometimes the obvious becomes the basis and the real and most important reason is overlooked. It feels good to know that our God is all knowing which is why we should always settle for what is best before God and not before men. He knows the underlying reasons for our every action and that's what counts most.
Amen. Hallelujah!
Matthew 23:13-22
13 Jesus said to the crowds and to his disciples: “Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, you hypocrites...blind guides...Blind fools...You blind ones, which is greater, the gift, or the altar that makes the gift sacred?...
1 Thessalonians 1:2-5, 8-10
2 Paul, Silvanus and Timothy to the Church of the Thessalonians in God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ: grace to you and peace. We give thanks to God always for all of you, remembering you in our prayers, unceasingly 3 calling to mind your work of faith and labor of love and endurance in hope of our Lord Jesus Christ, before our God and Father, 4 knowing, brothers and sisters loved by God, how you were chosen. 5 For our gospel did not come to you in word alone, but also in power and in the Holy Spirit and with much conviction. You know what sort of people we were among you for your sake. 8 In every place your faith in God has gone forth, so that we have no need to say anything. 9 For they themselves openly declare about us what sort of reception we had among you, and how you turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God 10 and to await his Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead, Jesus, who delivers us from the coming wrath.
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. If we are faithful to God then we can claim all the benefits of being God's chosen people. 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...For the LORD loves his people, and he adorns the lowly with victory. Let the faithful exult in glory; let them sing for joy upon their couches; 6 let the high praises of God be in their throats. 9 This is the glory of all his faithful. Alleluia
If there are things that come to my mind upon reading today's gospel then these are the unpleasant things and disappointments we encounter in life. We can never get away from these things since there will always come a time when we are confronted with situations in our lives when we just can't tolerate things anymore. Or we encounter people who just do not get it or refuse to get it. Jesus called them the hypocrites, the blind guides and fools. Whew! Even Jesus came to a point when he has to label them as such just to get His point or message across to us. It is very tiring when we are around these kind of people because they simply do not want to listen and insist on the wrong they are doing. We too are no different from these scribes and Pharisees if we are not open to the instructions of God to us and continue to follow our own way. Misunderstandings and misconceptions can be corrected and reformed through proper information and counseling but the outright disregard and disobedience on our part is another thing. This is what Jesus is emphasizing here in the gospel. Let us not be stubborn anymore and be mindful of what God is telling us. There are times when people question our decisions without realizing the basis for it. Sometimes the obvious becomes the basis and the real and most important reason is overlooked. It feels good to know that our God is all knowing which is why we should always settle for what is best before God and not before men. He knows the underlying reasons for our every action and that's what counts most.
Amen. Hallelujah!
Matthew 23:13-22
13 Jesus said to the crowds and to his disciples: “Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, you hypocrites...blind guides...Blind fools...You blind ones, which is greater, the gift, or the altar that makes the gift sacred?...
Sunday, August 21, 2011
ARE WE THERE, YET?
We are destined for greatness as far as our Lord God is concerned. If we feel that we are not there yet then we're bound to end up there if only we truly believe in the fate that God has meant for us and follow the path He leads us. Amen. Hallelujah!
Isaiah 22:15, 19-23
...when he opens, no one shall shut, when he shuts, no one shall open. 23 I will fix him like a peg in a sure spot, to be a place of honor for his family.”
God allows things to happen for a reason, which is far greater and divine than our own intended purpose. All we have to do is completely trust Him that in His goodness and mercy will show us His saving power and grace. If there's one thing for sure, that is the truth that God knows everything we are going through and He will not withhold the help that we need from Him in His most appropriate and best time, place and situation. All we need to do is just give our trust completely to Him who will complete what he has done for us and would not forsake the work of His hands. Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalm 138:1-2, 2-3, 6, 8R: (8bc)
Lord, your love is eternal; do not forsake the work of your hands.
1 I will give thanks to you, O LORD, with all my heart, for you have heard the words of my mouth; in the presence of the angels I will sing your praise; ...
We can always rely on God to bring to fulfillment and completion whatever He has begun for He is a God of tremendous power. Amen. Hallelujah!
Romans 11:33-36
33 Oh, the depth of the riches and wisdom and knowledge of God! How inscrutable are his judgments and how unsearchable his ways!
Funny, how we sometimes find ourselves saying one thing this minute and then another thing the next. Just like Peter in today's gospel, we witnessed the sudden shift when in the first part of the gospel, Jesus was commending him for having professed a truth that can not be revealed through flesh and blood but through our Heavenly Father. But in the latter part if we will read on, Jesus rebuked him for behaving otherwise. This tells us that no matter how totally unreliable we are, at times. God does not give up on us. He continues to shower us with grace and mercy and it is all up to us if we will respond with faith and humility the way Peter did who persevered despite of all the struggles until the last hour. Despite the weaknesses He sees in each one of us, He was willing to entrust a great responsibility to us as seen by His appointment of Peter to be the first Church leader. We should never doubt that we, too are worthy to fulfill our mission here on earth. Amen. Hallelujah!
Matthew 16:13-20
...19 I will give you the keys to the kingdom of heaven. Whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven; and whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.”
Isaiah 22:15, 19-23
...when he opens, no one shall shut, when he shuts, no one shall open. 23 I will fix him like a peg in a sure spot, to be a place of honor for his family.”
God allows things to happen for a reason, which is far greater and divine than our own intended purpose. All we have to do is completely trust Him that in His goodness and mercy will show us His saving power and grace. If there's one thing for sure, that is the truth that God knows everything we are going through and He will not withhold the help that we need from Him in His most appropriate and best time, place and situation. All we need to do is just give our trust completely to Him who will complete what he has done for us and would not forsake the work of His hands. Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalm 138:1-2, 2-3, 6, 8R: (8bc)
Lord, your love is eternal; do not forsake the work of your hands.
1 I will give thanks to you, O LORD, with all my heart, for you have heard the words of my mouth; in the presence of the angels I will sing your praise; ...
We can always rely on God to bring to fulfillment and completion whatever He has begun for He is a God of tremendous power. Amen. Hallelujah!
Romans 11:33-36
33 Oh, the depth of the riches and wisdom and knowledge of God! How inscrutable are his judgments and how unsearchable his ways!
Funny, how we sometimes find ourselves saying one thing this minute and then another thing the next. Just like Peter in today's gospel, we witnessed the sudden shift when in the first part of the gospel, Jesus was commending him for having professed a truth that can not be revealed through flesh and blood but through our Heavenly Father. But in the latter part if we will read on, Jesus rebuked him for behaving otherwise. This tells us that no matter how totally unreliable we are, at times. God does not give up on us. He continues to shower us with grace and mercy and it is all up to us if we will respond with faith and humility the way Peter did who persevered despite of all the struggles until the last hour. Despite the weaknesses He sees in each one of us, He was willing to entrust a great responsibility to us as seen by His appointment of Peter to be the first Church leader. We should never doubt that we, too are worthy to fulfill our mission here on earth. Amen. Hallelujah!
Matthew 16:13-20
...19 I will give you the keys to the kingdom of heaven. Whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven; and whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.”
Saturday, August 20, 2011
OUT OF THE ORDINARY
Today's 1st reading reminded me of Sister Ester who happened to be with us in the block rosary last night. She said that Ruth reminds her of her childhood when she used to glean on the field of her relatives. She is always reminded of God's goodness because she would always be told to just get from the storehouse instead of get tired picking up one by one the fallen bits of grain. We were talking about how Ruth became an important part of the family tree where Jesus came from. Her good deed paved the way for this immense blessing because she did not fail to respond to God's call to goodness and love. In our own lives, we too are called to respond to Him the way Ruth did. Sometimes it may come in the form of a situation where we really have to follow the leading of God to us in doing something out of the ordinary. But it was Ruth's unusual love and devotion to look after her mother in law and her willingness to give up his own people to embrace a people totally alien to her which made Boaz admire her. Not a lot of people are ready to do what she has done and may not understand her reasons for doing so. I just know that God who knows everything that is to come have chosen her to take on this privilege that she lovingly and responsibly accepted. I guess it was not easy for Ruth back then to come up with such decisions and actions but she has clearly understood, followed her heart, believed and responded well by living God's call in her life. Amen. Hallelujah!
Ruth 2:1-3. 8-11; 4:13-17
...Boaz said to Ruth, “Listen, my daughter! Do not go to glean in anyone else’s field; you are not to leave here. Stay here with my women servants. ...10 Casting herself prostrate upon the ground, she said to him, “Why should I, a foreigner, be favored with your notice?” 11 Boaz answered her “I have had a complete account of what you have done for your mother-in-law after your husband’s death; you have left your father and your mother and the land of your birth, and have come to a people whom you did not know previously.” 4: 13 Boaz took Ruth. When they came together as man and wife, the LORD enabled her to conceive and she bore a son. 14 Then the women said to Naomi, “Blessed is the LORD who has not failed to provide you today with an heir! May he become famous in Israel! 15 He will be your comfort and the support of your old age, for his mother is the daughter-in-law who loves you. She is worth more to you than seven sons!” 16 Naomi took the child, placed him on her lap, and became his nurse. 17 And the neighbor women gave him his name, at the news that a grandson had been born to Naomi. They called him Obed. He was the father of Jesse, the father of David.
If we truly believe that we have an Extraordinary and Awesome God then we, too must be willing to take on the challenge of doing something out of the ordinary and really get out of our way to live out what God calls us to do. Nothing is ever wasted for it has always been proven throughout all generations that those who follow and obey the Lord will surely be blessed not only in the present but also in the future. Amen. Hallelujah!
P S A L M
Psalm 128:1b-2. 3. 4. 5
R: See how the Lord blesses those who fear him.
1 Blessed are you who fear the LORD, who walk in his ways! 2 For you shall eat the fruit of your handiwork; happy shall you be, and favored. (R) 3 Your wife shall be like a fruitful vine in the recesses of your home; your children like olive plants around your table.
God loves everybody but more so those who are being oppressed. Do not despair. If we sometimes feel that life is so unfair and things have become so unfortunate that nothing or no one can help us then still be thankful that we've arrived in this situation for God who sees all things will definitely not allow such injustice and will surely uphold what is right and the truth. Thus on our part, it is not enough that we follow and obey without understanding. There is a need to know our motivations and intentions in doing something. We should live by example. It is not enough that we claim to be good Christians for there is something more to that than just being called one but to live like one is another and most important at that. We are a doomed people unless we repent. In the gospel we see Jesus address the scribes and the Pharisees, He compliments but criticizes strongly. The Pharisees represent the lay party and the priesthood the Sadducees. At the time of Jesus during the Roman rule, they figured that the way to peace is through adaptation. The houses of priests are decorated just as the Romans, as in Pompei and very much like it. They have identified themselves with the oppressive dominant culture and though they would keep some Jewish law they deny judgment, heaven, hell, and eternity. On the other hand, the Pharisees or the lay counteract the way priests are living. They had 2 principles, to take the rules of ritual purity so that the laity would be pure as they offer sacrifices like a kingdom of priests as in Exodus 19:6 “You shall be to me a kingdom of priests, a holy nation. That is what you must tell the Israelites." The people of Israel is a kingdom of priests and they put a fence around the law so that no one would break the law. An example is “Thou shall not use the Lord’s name in vain” In order to make sure they don’t break the law, no one is allowed to say the Lord’s name. A death penalty is given to those who break it. This is precisely the oral tradition that our Lord is talking about in the gospel. The Pharisees were not helping people live the law because they don’t practice it themselves and made life complicated. In Chorazin, there would be a seat of Moses for the Rabbi, which symbolizes the authority to teach in the synagogue. The Lord says pay attention to what they teach but don’t do what they do. One of the things they are being criticized for is pride and arrogance. Jesus warns us against that vice especially for religious people although not so much for the people outside. Church people like most of us can try to show that we are holy so that people would compliment us and they would think that we’re religious and others are not. This is a constant problem for religious people at all levels, whether laity or the priesthood. The devil will try to tempt us with whatever works, if we’re not religious he can use things of the flesh to tempt us, but if we are religious then he can tempt us with our pride and change it into something spiritual. It is impossible to detect pride in ourselves. People around us will know so it’s important to pay attention to what they say to us so that so we learn from it. It is too difficult to detect a vice on our own because it is easier to detect it in other people or to listen to what other people say. Jesus mentions about those who widen their phylacteries and lengthen their tassels. Jewish men wear a phylactery which is a small leather box that they wear on their forehead and one on their left arm as in Deut 6:8, Bind them at your wrist as a sign and let them be as a pendant on your forehead. They took it literally as a part of the way to obey the law. They make it really big so to show people that they are more pious than others and because it is bigger they stand out more than them. The tassel is a sign of royalty in the ancient times. Jewish men wear this to show that they are a kingdom of priests for God. They even tie 613 knots in the tassel which represents one tie for every 613 laws as a sign of obeying the entire commandment. Jesus wears a tassel Himself if we may recall the woman who touched the tassel of Jesus and got healed. He’s not against it, but feeding the pride is the issue. He mentioned not to be called Rabbi or teacher which is important in this context because at that time there were different rabbis that start various sects called a House. They are rival sects of Pharisees and disagree among themselves which can be found in the collection of Rabbinic sayings, the Mishnah. What He is speaking about here is that we may not call anyone a Rabbi for He did not want us to be divided. Oneness among ourselves is an important virtue that He commends among His disciples. He did not want Christianity to be divided and wanted us to submit to the oneness of the Church. Humility is the antidote to the pride as He said that the least is the greatest. We have to keep in mind the division among the Pharisees is the underlying reason for this restriction of why they should not be called rabbi or father. In Corinthians, Paul insists on being called a Father because he preaches to them. There is nothing wrong with it because he knows that the real work is done by the Holy Spirit and he is part of a community and known as a spiritual father but not in the sense of a father that Christ is speaking of in the gospel like sects which is something that we’re not to do. Christ calls us, as Ruth to respond out of the ordinary and set things right. All of us needs to have the sense to rid ourselves of religious pride. The readings call us to humility. It does not mean putting ourselves down but rather saying the truth about ourselves, not more not less. Pride is looking down at other people who are below me. We need to think of it in a way that when we look down on people, Christ hits us at the back of the head. We better just look up at people. When we are looking up at the skies, we feel small, so how much more would we feel looking up to God. That’s when we realize what humility is all about. We see our sinfulness and smallness in reference to God, which is the antidote to our pride. If we do, then Christ will save us and bring us to the joys of heaven. Amen. Hallelujah!
Matthew 23:1-12
1 Jesus spoke to the crowds and to his disciples, 2 saying, “The scribes and the Pharisees have taken their seat on the chair of Moses. 3 Therefore, do and observe all things whatsoever they tell you, but do not follow their example. For they preach but they do not practice. 4 They tie up heavy burdens hard to carry and lay them on people’s shoulders, but they will not lift a finger to move them. 5 All their works are performed to be seen. They widen their phylacteries and lengthen their tassels. 6 They love places of honor at banquets, seats of honor in synagogues, 7 greetings in marketplaces, and the salutation ‘Rabbi.’ 8 As for you, do not be called ‘Rabbi.’ You have but one teacher, and you are all brothers. 9 Call no one on earth your father; you have but one Father in heaven. 10 Do not be called ‘Master’; you have but one master, the Christ. 11 The greatest among you must be your servant. 12 Whoever exalts himself will be humbled; but whoever humbles himself will be exalted.”
Ruth 2:1-3. 8-11; 4:13-17
...Boaz said to Ruth, “Listen, my daughter! Do not go to glean in anyone else’s field; you are not to leave here. Stay here with my women servants. ...10 Casting herself prostrate upon the ground, she said to him, “Why should I, a foreigner, be favored with your notice?” 11 Boaz answered her “I have had a complete account of what you have done for your mother-in-law after your husband’s death; you have left your father and your mother and the land of your birth, and have come to a people whom you did not know previously.” 4: 13 Boaz took Ruth. When they came together as man and wife, the LORD enabled her to conceive and she bore a son. 14 Then the women said to Naomi, “Blessed is the LORD who has not failed to provide you today with an heir! May he become famous in Israel! 15 He will be your comfort and the support of your old age, for his mother is the daughter-in-law who loves you. She is worth more to you than seven sons!” 16 Naomi took the child, placed him on her lap, and became his nurse. 17 And the neighbor women gave him his name, at the news that a grandson had been born to Naomi. They called him Obed. He was the father of Jesse, the father of David.
If we truly believe that we have an Extraordinary and Awesome God then we, too must be willing to take on the challenge of doing something out of the ordinary and really get out of our way to live out what God calls us to do. Nothing is ever wasted for it has always been proven throughout all generations that those who follow and obey the Lord will surely be blessed not only in the present but also in the future. Amen. Hallelujah!
P S A L M
Psalm 128:1b-2. 3. 4. 5
R: See how the Lord blesses those who fear him.
1 Blessed are you who fear the LORD, who walk in his ways! 2 For you shall eat the fruit of your handiwork; happy shall you be, and favored. (R) 3 Your wife shall be like a fruitful vine in the recesses of your home; your children like olive plants around your table.
God loves everybody but more so those who are being oppressed. Do not despair. If we sometimes feel that life is so unfair and things have become so unfortunate that nothing or no one can help us then still be thankful that we've arrived in this situation for God who sees all things will definitely not allow such injustice and will surely uphold what is right and the truth. Thus on our part, it is not enough that we follow and obey without understanding. There is a need to know our motivations and intentions in doing something. We should live by example. It is not enough that we claim to be good Christians for there is something more to that than just being called one but to live like one is another and most important at that. We are a doomed people unless we repent. In the gospel we see Jesus address the scribes and the Pharisees, He compliments but criticizes strongly. The Pharisees represent the lay party and the priesthood the Sadducees. At the time of Jesus during the Roman rule, they figured that the way to peace is through adaptation. The houses of priests are decorated just as the Romans, as in Pompei and very much like it. They have identified themselves with the oppressive dominant culture and though they would keep some Jewish law they deny judgment, heaven, hell, and eternity. On the other hand, the Pharisees or the lay counteract the way priests are living. They had 2 principles, to take the rules of ritual purity so that the laity would be pure as they offer sacrifices like a kingdom of priests as in Exodus 19:6 “You shall be to me a kingdom of priests, a holy nation. That is what you must tell the Israelites." The people of Israel is a kingdom of priests and they put a fence around the law so that no one would break the law. An example is “Thou shall not use the Lord’s name in vain” In order to make sure they don’t break the law, no one is allowed to say the Lord’s name. A death penalty is given to those who break it. This is precisely the oral tradition that our Lord is talking about in the gospel. The Pharisees were not helping people live the law because they don’t practice it themselves and made life complicated. In Chorazin, there would be a seat of Moses for the Rabbi, which symbolizes the authority to teach in the synagogue. The Lord says pay attention to what they teach but don’t do what they do. One of the things they are being criticized for is pride and arrogance. Jesus warns us against that vice especially for religious people although not so much for the people outside. Church people like most of us can try to show that we are holy so that people would compliment us and they would think that we’re religious and others are not. This is a constant problem for religious people at all levels, whether laity or the priesthood. The devil will try to tempt us with whatever works, if we’re not religious he can use things of the flesh to tempt us, but if we are religious then he can tempt us with our pride and change it into something spiritual. It is impossible to detect pride in ourselves. People around us will know so it’s important to pay attention to what they say to us so that so we learn from it. It is too difficult to detect a vice on our own because it is easier to detect it in other people or to listen to what other people say. Jesus mentions about those who widen their phylacteries and lengthen their tassels. Jewish men wear a phylactery which is a small leather box that they wear on their forehead and one on their left arm as in Deut 6:8, Bind them at your wrist as a sign and let them be as a pendant on your forehead. They took it literally as a part of the way to obey the law. They make it really big so to show people that they are more pious than others and because it is bigger they stand out more than them. The tassel is a sign of royalty in the ancient times. Jewish men wear this to show that they are a kingdom of priests for God. They even tie 613 knots in the tassel which represents one tie for every 613 laws as a sign of obeying the entire commandment. Jesus wears a tassel Himself if we may recall the woman who touched the tassel of Jesus and got healed. He’s not against it, but feeding the pride is the issue. He mentioned not to be called Rabbi or teacher which is important in this context because at that time there were different rabbis that start various sects called a House. They are rival sects of Pharisees and disagree among themselves which can be found in the collection of Rabbinic sayings, the Mishnah. What He is speaking about here is that we may not call anyone a Rabbi for He did not want us to be divided. Oneness among ourselves is an important virtue that He commends among His disciples. He did not want Christianity to be divided and wanted us to submit to the oneness of the Church. Humility is the antidote to the pride as He said that the least is the greatest. We have to keep in mind the division among the Pharisees is the underlying reason for this restriction of why they should not be called rabbi or father. In Corinthians, Paul insists on being called a Father because he preaches to them. There is nothing wrong with it because he knows that the real work is done by the Holy Spirit and he is part of a community and known as a spiritual father but not in the sense of a father that Christ is speaking of in the gospel like sects which is something that we’re not to do. Christ calls us, as Ruth to respond out of the ordinary and set things right. All of us needs to have the sense to rid ourselves of religious pride. The readings call us to humility. It does not mean putting ourselves down but rather saying the truth about ourselves, not more not less. Pride is looking down at other people who are below me. We need to think of it in a way that when we look down on people, Christ hits us at the back of the head. We better just look up at people. When we are looking up at the skies, we feel small, so how much more would we feel looking up to God. That’s when we realize what humility is all about. We see our sinfulness and smallness in reference to God, which is the antidote to our pride. If we do, then Christ will save us and bring us to the joys of heaven. Amen. Hallelujah!
Matthew 23:1-12
1 Jesus spoke to the crowds and to his disciples, 2 saying, “The scribes and the Pharisees have taken their seat on the chair of Moses. 3 Therefore, do and observe all things whatsoever they tell you, but do not follow their example. For they preach but they do not practice. 4 They tie up heavy burdens hard to carry and lay them on people’s shoulders, but they will not lift a finger to move them. 5 All their works are performed to be seen. They widen their phylacteries and lengthen their tassels. 6 They love places of honor at banquets, seats of honor in synagogues, 7 greetings in marketplaces, and the salutation ‘Rabbi.’ 8 As for you, do not be called ‘Rabbi.’ You have but one teacher, and you are all brothers. 9 Call no one on earth your father; you have but one Father in heaven. 10 Do not be called ‘Master’; you have but one master, the Christ. 11 The greatest among you must be your servant. 12 Whoever exalts himself will be humbled; but whoever humbles himself will be exalted.”
Friday, August 19, 2011
HALF OR WHOLE?
It is quite a surprise for us whenever we hear a daughter in law treating her mother in law with so much love and devotion to the point of still choosing to be with her even if her husband already passed away. Sometimes we just couldn't understand why people decide to do things the way they do. Instead of going back to her own family she chose to stay with her mother in law. The rest of the story about the life of Ruth tells us that she did not regret the decision she made. But during that time it might make us wonder whether she made the right decision or not because it surely doesn't look like it at that time when she decided to stay with Naomi, her mother in law. Just like Ruth who was very firm in that very difficult and life changing decision in today's 1st reading we should also follow her example in continuing to stand firm in her decision against all odds. We all know how Ruth the Moabite became the great grandmother of King David, the family tree where our Lord Jesus Christ came from. For those who do not hesitate, are not afraid nor discouraged and wholehearted in carrying what God has planned to do, they are assured of the great blessing and God given destiny that await them. Amen. Hallelujah!
Ruth 1:1. 3-6. 14b-16. 22
...Orpah kissed her mother-in-law good-bye, but Ruth stayed with her. 15 Naomi said “See now!” Your sister-in-law has gone back to her people and her god. Go back after your sister-in-law!” But Ruth said, “Do not ask me to abandon or forsake you! For wherever you go I will go, wherever you lodge I will lodge, your people shall be my people, and your God my God 22 Thus it was that Naomi returned with the Moabite daughter-in-law, Ruth, who accompanied her back from the plateau of Moab...
If we will always fill our hearts with gratitude and praise for the Lord then we will realize how things in our life turned out for good which seem to be not the case at the time it was happening for our God is faithful and everything that is said in today's psalm. Amen. Hallelujah!
P S A L M
Psalm 146:5-6ab. 6c-7. 8-9a. 9bc-10
R: Praise the Lord, my soul!
...The LORD keeps faith forever, 7 secures justice for the oppressed, gives good to the hungry. The LORD sets captives free. (R) 8 The LORD gives sight to the blind. The LORD raises up those that were bowed down; the LORD loves the just. 9 The LORD protects strangers. (R) The fatherless and the widow he sustains, but the way of the wicked he thwarts...
I guess it is easier to follow what the gospel is telling us to do whenever we are experiencing the good times but when the going gets tough and the tough really gets going then the scenario changes. The words: with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind are all extremes or superlatives and requires us to do exactly what it is asking us to do and obey at all times and not be half hearted Christians. Jesus never stops teaching, coaching and giving examples on how we should go about with our lives. He is after our welfare and the fulfillment of our desires in order for all of us to lead a wonderful life. We can trust Him to carry out whatever is needed for us to attain it provided we follow and obey His commandments, which is in truth the way to be truly happy. Amen. Hallelujah!
Matthew 22:34-40
...“You shall love the Lord, your God, with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind. 38 This is the greatest and the first commandment. 39 The second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself...
Ruth 1:1. 3-6. 14b-16. 22
...Orpah kissed her mother-in-law good-bye, but Ruth stayed with her. 15 Naomi said “See now!” Your sister-in-law has gone back to her people and her god. Go back after your sister-in-law!” But Ruth said, “Do not ask me to abandon or forsake you! For wherever you go I will go, wherever you lodge I will lodge, your people shall be my people, and your God my God 22 Thus it was that Naomi returned with the Moabite daughter-in-law, Ruth, who accompanied her back from the plateau of Moab...
If we will always fill our hearts with gratitude and praise for the Lord then we will realize how things in our life turned out for good which seem to be not the case at the time it was happening for our God is faithful and everything that is said in today's psalm. Amen. Hallelujah!
P S A L M
Psalm 146:5-6ab. 6c-7. 8-9a. 9bc-10
R: Praise the Lord, my soul!
...The LORD keeps faith forever, 7 secures justice for the oppressed, gives good to the hungry. The LORD sets captives free. (R) 8 The LORD gives sight to the blind. The LORD raises up those that were bowed down; the LORD loves the just. 9 The LORD protects strangers. (R) The fatherless and the widow he sustains, but the way of the wicked he thwarts...
I guess it is easier to follow what the gospel is telling us to do whenever we are experiencing the good times but when the going gets tough and the tough really gets going then the scenario changes. The words: with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind are all extremes or superlatives and requires us to do exactly what it is asking us to do and obey at all times and not be half hearted Christians. Jesus never stops teaching, coaching and giving examples on how we should go about with our lives. He is after our welfare and the fulfillment of our desires in order for all of us to lead a wonderful life. We can trust Him to carry out whatever is needed for us to attain it provided we follow and obey His commandments, which is in truth the way to be truly happy. Amen. Hallelujah!
Matthew 22:34-40
...“You shall love the Lord, your God, with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind. 38 This is the greatest and the first commandment. 39 The second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself...
Thursday, August 18, 2011
FROM THE HEART
I can still remember our trip to Getty's Museum when we were able to see a lot of artworks displayed in the galleries. One of them which I can not forget is the one done in Regenburg in the year 1400-10 which was about Jephthah and his daughter and what the 1st reading today is all about. It was so painful for Jephthah to part with her daughter but it is his vow to the Lord that takes precedence more than anything else. If there's one important thing that we should always keep in mind and learn from this is that we should always honor our word. We should always mind the things that we are saying, mean them once we've said it and let it really come from our hearts. Amen. Hallelujah!
Judges 11:29-39a
... Jephthah made a vow to the LORD. "If you deliver the Ammonites into my power," he said, "whoever comes out of the doors of my house to meet me when I return in triumph from the Ammonites shall belong to the LORD. I shall offer him up as a holocaust."
Jephthah then went on to the Ammonites to fight against them, and the LORD delivered them into his power, so that he inflicted a severe defeat on them, from Aroer to the approach of Minnith (twenty cities in all) and as far as Abel-keramin. Thus were the Ammonites brought into subjection by the Israelites. When Jephthah returned to his house in Mizpah, it was his daughter who came forth, playing the tambourines and dancing. She was an only child: he had neither son nor daughter besides her.
When he saw her, he rent his garments and said, "Alas, daughter, you have struck me down and brought calamity upon me. For I have made a vow to the LORD and I cannot retract." "Father," she replied, "you have made a vow to the LORD. Do with me as you have vowed, because the LORD has wrought vengeance for you on your enemies the Ammonites."...
I don't think God will require impossibilities from us. God's will in our lives is always perfect and holy and we simply have to follow with our hearts.
P S A L M
Psalm 40:5. 7-8a. 8b-9. 10
R: Here I am, Lord; I come to do your will.
4 [5] Blessed the man who makes the LORD his trust; who turns not to idolatry or to those who stray after falsehood. (R) 6 [7] Sacrifice or oblation you wished not, but ears open to obedience you gave me...“In the written scroll it is prescribed for me, 8 [9] to do your will, O my God, is my delight, and your law is within my heart!”
In today's gospel, the feast is ready but those who were invited refused to come. God is constantly inviting us but we always have excuses and other things to do. Daily, God sends us an invitation to come to Him. Sometimes we miss the opportunity whenever we fail to recognize the many chances He has given us. And when we do respond to God and accepts His invitation we sometimes take it for granted and do not realize the need to make ourselves presentable before God. Not so much of our external appearance as suggested in today's gospel but more of our inner selves and what we have made of our hearts. We are distracted and take for granted what clearly should take first place and priority in our lives. Time will come when the time for the invitation will cease and if ever we decide to come it is already too late. Our souls need to be properly dressed for that final and main event. Let's not delay any longer before we find ourselves no longer welcome in God's presence. Let us be counted among the invited and chosen. We should all prepare, look forward and be ready for that day when we come face to face to God and become heirs of His kingdom. Let us not forfeit or lose our rightful place as a child of the God Most High. Amen. Hallelujah!
Matthew 22:1-14
1 Jesus again in reply spoke to them in parables, saying, 2 “The kingdom of heaven may be likened to a king who gave a wedding feast for his son. 3 He dispatched his servants to summon the invited guests to the feast, but they refused to come...‘The feast is ready, but those who were invited were not worthy to come. 9 Go out, therefore, into the main roads and invite to the feast whomever you find.’ 10 The servants went out into the streets and gathered all they found, bad and good alike, and the hall was filled with guests. 11 But when the king came in to meet the guests he saw a man there not dressed in a wedding garment. 12 He said to him, ‘My friend, how is it that you came in here without a wedding garment?’ But he was reduced to silence. 13 Then the king said to his attendants, ‘Bind his hands and feet, and cast him into the darkness outside, where there will be wailing and grinding of teeth.’ 14 Many are invited, but few are chosen.”
Judges 11:29-39a
... Jephthah made a vow to the LORD. "If you deliver the Ammonites into my power," he said, "whoever comes out of the doors of my house to meet me when I return in triumph from the Ammonites shall belong to the LORD. I shall offer him up as a holocaust."
Jephthah then went on to the Ammonites to fight against them, and the LORD delivered them into his power, so that he inflicted a severe defeat on them, from Aroer to the approach of Minnith (twenty cities in all) and as far as Abel-keramin. Thus were the Ammonites brought into subjection by the Israelites. When Jephthah returned to his house in Mizpah, it was his daughter who came forth, playing the tambourines and dancing. She was an only child: he had neither son nor daughter besides her.
When he saw her, he rent his garments and said, "Alas, daughter, you have struck me down and brought calamity upon me. For I have made a vow to the LORD and I cannot retract." "Father," she replied, "you have made a vow to the LORD. Do with me as you have vowed, because the LORD has wrought vengeance for you on your enemies the Ammonites."...
I don't think God will require impossibilities from us. God's will in our lives is always perfect and holy and we simply have to follow with our hearts.
P S A L M
Psalm 40:5. 7-8a. 8b-9. 10
R: Here I am, Lord; I come to do your will.
4 [5] Blessed the man who makes the LORD his trust; who turns not to idolatry or to those who stray after falsehood. (R) 6 [7] Sacrifice or oblation you wished not, but ears open to obedience you gave me...“In the written scroll it is prescribed for me, 8 [9] to do your will, O my God, is my delight, and your law is within my heart!”
In today's gospel, the feast is ready but those who were invited refused to come. God is constantly inviting us but we always have excuses and other things to do. Daily, God sends us an invitation to come to Him. Sometimes we miss the opportunity whenever we fail to recognize the many chances He has given us. And when we do respond to God and accepts His invitation we sometimes take it for granted and do not realize the need to make ourselves presentable before God. Not so much of our external appearance as suggested in today's gospel but more of our inner selves and what we have made of our hearts. We are distracted and take for granted what clearly should take first place and priority in our lives. Time will come when the time for the invitation will cease and if ever we decide to come it is already too late. Our souls need to be properly dressed for that final and main event. Let's not delay any longer before we find ourselves no longer welcome in God's presence. Let us be counted among the invited and chosen. We should all prepare, look forward and be ready for that day when we come face to face to God and become heirs of His kingdom. Let us not forfeit or lose our rightful place as a child of the God Most High. Amen. Hallelujah!
Matthew 22:1-14
1 Jesus again in reply spoke to them in parables, saying, 2 “The kingdom of heaven may be likened to a king who gave a wedding feast for his son. 3 He dispatched his servants to summon the invited guests to the feast, but they refused to come...‘The feast is ready, but those who were invited were not worthy to come. 9 Go out, therefore, into the main roads and invite to the feast whomever you find.’ 10 The servants went out into the streets and gathered all they found, bad and good alike, and the hall was filled with guests. 11 But when the king came in to meet the guests he saw a man there not dressed in a wedding garment. 12 He said to him, ‘My friend, how is it that you came in here without a wedding garment?’ But he was reduced to silence. 13 Then the king said to his attendants, ‘Bind his hands and feet, and cast him into the darkness outside, where there will be wailing and grinding of teeth.’ 14 Many are invited, but few are chosen.”
Wednesday, August 17, 2011
THE LAST WILL BE FIRST
In today’s 1st reading we are being reminded to choose our leaders well. In light of this I would like to share this article from Sabbath entitled: THE HEART OF A TRUE LEADER
It is a disaster for a country, any organization or community when its leader is corrupt, incompetent or just plain bad. This story or parable from the Old Testament expresses a home truth that we need to reflect upon, and especially when we have the opportunity to vote for our leaders in elections. We have to consider the motivations of those who present themselves for public office.
A true leader never seeks the power and responsibility of leadership for his or her own end. This is why it is important to study the character of our leaders before they take public office. In fact, we have a responsibility to do so. If we do not take this responsibility seriously then we have no right to complain about the incompetence of our leaders. A democratic country deserves the leaders they get, and the effectiveness and competency of a country’s leaders are directly dependent upon the responsibility of her voters.
In the parable, we see the reluctance of the supposedly preferred and better leaders— the “tree” who wants to rule over nature is the thorn bush. Clearly the thorn bush’s aspirations are not honorable. The question we need to find an answer to is why the preferred candidates forego the opportunity to lead. Is it because of the enormous responsibility of the position of leadership? I tend to think so. This is something that we rarely consider fully when speaking about leadership. The moral responsibility a leader accepts is enormous. It is greater than the moral responsibility assumed by public figures who do not hold legislative office because political leaders have the power to create and change the laws of the land and thus materially affect not just the present but the future generations.
Let us never forget to take our own responsibilities seriously when we vote, and let us remember to pray for our leaders that they fulfill their responsibilities well. Fr. Steve Tynan, MGL
Reflection Question:
How seriously do I take the responsibility of voting in an election?
Holy Spirit, help me to be a responsible citizen of my country by setting a good example through the witness of my life and supporting those leaders worthy of my support.
Judges 9:6-15
6 All the citizens of Shechem and all Beth-millo came together and proceeded to make Abimelech king by the terebinth at the memorial pillar in Shechem. 7 When this was reported to him, Jotham went to the top of Mount Gerizim, and standing there, cried out to them in a loud voice: “Hear me, citizens of Shechem, that God may then hear you! 8 Once the trees went to anoint a king over themselves. So they said to the olive tree, ‘Reign over us.’ 9 But the olive tree answered them, ‘Must I give up my rich oil, whereby men and gods are honored, and go to wave over the trees?’ 10 Then the trees said to the fig tree, ‘Come; you reign over us!’ 11 But the fig tree answered them, ‘Must I give up my sweetness and my good fruit, and go to wave over the trees?’ 12 Then the trees said to the vine, ‘Come you, and reign over us.’ 13 But the vine answered them, ‘Must I give up my wine that cheers gods and men, and go to wave over the trees?’ 14 Then all the trees said to the buckthorn, ‘Come; you reign over us!’ 15 But the buckthorn replied to the trees, ‘If you wish to anoint me king over you in good faith, come and take refuge in my shadow. Otherwise, let fire come from the buckthorn and devour the cedars of Lebanon.’”
Sometimes we reach a point in our lives when we're at our lowest and we tend to doubt God's presence amidst our trials. When we feel lost, we must not forget that God has given us what we need even before we ask Him. God knows every single detail about us and He will never leave out anything in our life without pronouncing a blessing over us. Amen. Hallelujah!
P S A L M
Psalm 21:2-3, 4-5, 6-7
R: Lord, in your strength the king is glad.
...You have granted him his heart’s desire; you refused not the wish of his lips. (R) 3 [4] For you welcomed him with goodly blessings, you placed on his head a crown of pure gold. 4 [5] He asked life of you: you gave him length of days forever and ever. (R) 5 [6] Great is his glory in your victory; majesty and splendour you conferred upon him. 6 [7] For you made him a blessing forever; you gladdened him with the joy of your face.
In today's gospel, envy of other people's fortune is evident because of the complaints of the workers in the vineyard who worked the whole day but was paid the same amount as those who worked for only a short time. The moral lesson of the story in my opinion is that we should stop comparing ourselves with others rather we should focus on how we can improve our work for God. Be confident that we have a just God who is always right in His judgment and decision. At the end of the day whatever work we have offered to God will always be rewarded accordingly because God will never cheat us rather He will always give more than we deserve. We can never really tell what's going to be until the last hour. All of us are saved by Jesus when He died on the Cross in Calvary more than 2000 years ago but continuously in the process of being saved every day. We've got to persevere in our faith and not be discouraged or dissuaded, distracted and tempted by the other side. We have all been forgiven through Jesus Christ but it is our response to this grace that matters most. It differs from person to person according to the capacity we have all developed. We can not be indifferent, neutral, take for granted or neglect this tremendous grace that is offered to us. We've got to take an active part in receiving this grace in order for us to gain the ultimate and total experience of God's gift to us. Amen. Hallelujah!
Matthew 20:1-16
...Thus, the last will be first, and the first will be last.”
It is a disaster for a country, any organization or community when its leader is corrupt, incompetent or just plain bad. This story or parable from the Old Testament expresses a home truth that we need to reflect upon, and especially when we have the opportunity to vote for our leaders in elections. We have to consider the motivations of those who present themselves for public office.
A true leader never seeks the power and responsibility of leadership for his or her own end. This is why it is important to study the character of our leaders before they take public office. In fact, we have a responsibility to do so. If we do not take this responsibility seriously then we have no right to complain about the incompetence of our leaders. A democratic country deserves the leaders they get, and the effectiveness and competency of a country’s leaders are directly dependent upon the responsibility of her voters.
In the parable, we see the reluctance of the supposedly preferred and better leaders— the “tree” who wants to rule over nature is the thorn bush. Clearly the thorn bush’s aspirations are not honorable. The question we need to find an answer to is why the preferred candidates forego the opportunity to lead. Is it because of the enormous responsibility of the position of leadership? I tend to think so. This is something that we rarely consider fully when speaking about leadership. The moral responsibility a leader accepts is enormous. It is greater than the moral responsibility assumed by public figures who do not hold legislative office because political leaders have the power to create and change the laws of the land and thus materially affect not just the present but the future generations.
Let us never forget to take our own responsibilities seriously when we vote, and let us remember to pray for our leaders that they fulfill their responsibilities well. Fr. Steve Tynan, MGL
Reflection Question:
How seriously do I take the responsibility of voting in an election?
Holy Spirit, help me to be a responsible citizen of my country by setting a good example through the witness of my life and supporting those leaders worthy of my support.
Judges 9:6-15
6 All the citizens of Shechem and all Beth-millo came together and proceeded to make Abimelech king by the terebinth at the memorial pillar in Shechem. 7 When this was reported to him, Jotham went to the top of Mount Gerizim, and standing there, cried out to them in a loud voice: “Hear me, citizens of Shechem, that God may then hear you! 8 Once the trees went to anoint a king over themselves. So they said to the olive tree, ‘Reign over us.’ 9 But the olive tree answered them, ‘Must I give up my rich oil, whereby men and gods are honored, and go to wave over the trees?’ 10 Then the trees said to the fig tree, ‘Come; you reign over us!’ 11 But the fig tree answered them, ‘Must I give up my sweetness and my good fruit, and go to wave over the trees?’ 12 Then the trees said to the vine, ‘Come you, and reign over us.’ 13 But the vine answered them, ‘Must I give up my wine that cheers gods and men, and go to wave over the trees?’ 14 Then all the trees said to the buckthorn, ‘Come; you reign over us!’ 15 But the buckthorn replied to the trees, ‘If you wish to anoint me king over you in good faith, come and take refuge in my shadow. Otherwise, let fire come from the buckthorn and devour the cedars of Lebanon.’”
Sometimes we reach a point in our lives when we're at our lowest and we tend to doubt God's presence amidst our trials. When we feel lost, we must not forget that God has given us what we need even before we ask Him. God knows every single detail about us and He will never leave out anything in our life without pronouncing a blessing over us. Amen. Hallelujah!
P S A L M
Psalm 21:2-3, 4-5, 6-7
R: Lord, in your strength the king is glad.
...You have granted him his heart’s desire; you refused not the wish of his lips. (R) 3 [4] For you welcomed him with goodly blessings, you placed on his head a crown of pure gold. 4 [5] He asked life of you: you gave him length of days forever and ever. (R) 5 [6] Great is his glory in your victory; majesty and splendour you conferred upon him. 6 [7] For you made him a blessing forever; you gladdened him with the joy of your face.
In today's gospel, envy of other people's fortune is evident because of the complaints of the workers in the vineyard who worked the whole day but was paid the same amount as those who worked for only a short time. The moral lesson of the story in my opinion is that we should stop comparing ourselves with others rather we should focus on how we can improve our work for God. Be confident that we have a just God who is always right in His judgment and decision. At the end of the day whatever work we have offered to God will always be rewarded accordingly because God will never cheat us rather He will always give more than we deserve. We can never really tell what's going to be until the last hour. All of us are saved by Jesus when He died on the Cross in Calvary more than 2000 years ago but continuously in the process of being saved every day. We've got to persevere in our faith and not be discouraged or dissuaded, distracted and tempted by the other side. We have all been forgiven through Jesus Christ but it is our response to this grace that matters most. It differs from person to person according to the capacity we have all developed. We can not be indifferent, neutral, take for granted or neglect this tremendous grace that is offered to us. We've got to take an active part in receiving this grace in order for us to gain the ultimate and total experience of God's gift to us. Amen. Hallelujah!
Matthew 20:1-16
...Thus, the last will be first, and the first will be last.”
Tuesday, August 16, 2011
CHAMPION
I was able to see a portion of the movie Gideon 300 and could still remember how my cousin was so impressed by those men in that movie. He said that before they started shooting the movie the characters needed to go on a rigid fitness program in order to develop a great physique and the so called 6 pack abs that most athletes and exercise buffs develop through the years of training, dedication and hard work by performing and sticking to a comprehensive exercise program. Although I did not watch the entire film I have gathered from what I've seen that the fact that Gideon is a powerful champion really has to be established not just based on the story but on how he will appear on screen. He must really give justice to the role he portrayed as Gideon being a very popular bible personality known for his bravery and courage which brought about his victorious conquests. Before it all came to be, Gideon was full of doubt and did not have the confidence to carry it out as stated in the reading today but he became a champion for the Lord gave His power and might in him. Amen. Hallelujah!
Judges 6:11-24a
...While his son Gideon was beating out wheat in the winepress to save it from the Midianites, 12 the angel of the LORD appeared to him and said, “The LORD is with you, O champion!” ...But he answered him, “Please, my lord, how can I save Israel? My family is the meanest in Manasseh, and I am the most insignificant in my father’s house.” 16 “I shall be with you,” the LORD said to him, “and you will cut down Midian to the last man.” ...
Only God can give us the peace that world can not give. Amen. Hallelujah!
P S A L M
Psalm 85:9. 11-12. 13-14
R: The Lord speaks of peace to his people.
...Kindness and truth shall meet; justice and peace shall kiss. 11 [12] Truth shall spring out of the earth, and justice shall look down from heaven. (R) 12 [13] The LORD himself will give his benefits; our land shall yield its increase. 13 [14] Justice shall walk before him, and salvation, along the way of his steps.
A task like preparing for death may sound unthinkable for some or even morbid and scary. I say it should not be the case, you know why? If you are aware of a Kingdom of endless glory that awaits us, a 100x more profit and eternal life then we will all be waiting in line so to speak just to invest everything we have for it. It gives us a feeling of consolation too knowing that it doesn't work quite like the way the world thinks. It is not a matter of who was first but who perseveres and not let go of God's promises until the like a champion. In our journey here on earth we encounter so many things in our lives that sometimes push us to the wall and feel like giving up. When we are confronted with such situations we sometimes succumb to the remedies and recommendations that are popularly subscribed to, in this world we are in. It is never easy to live consistently the reality in today's gospel. We doubt, question and resort to the seemingly wise, practical and handy solutions being presented and offered to us in an enticing way. We end up taking for granted what should always be embedded in our hearts, minds and souls. We forget the benefit of knowing that God can do the ultimate good to us than follow the wisdom of men and this world. Amen. Hallelujah!
Matthew 19:23-30
26 Jesus looked at them and said, “For human beings this is impossible, but for God all things are possible.” 27 Then Peter said to him in reply, “We have given up everything and followed you. What will there be for us?” 28 Jesus said to them, “Amen, I say to you that you who have followed me, in the new age, when the Son of Man is seated on his throne of glory, will yourselves sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. 29 And everyone who has given up houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or children or lands for the sake of my name will receive a hundred times more, and will inherit eternal life. 30 But many who are first will be last, and the last will be first.”
Judges 6:11-24a
...While his son Gideon was beating out wheat in the winepress to save it from the Midianites, 12 the angel of the LORD appeared to him and said, “The LORD is with you, O champion!” ...But he answered him, “Please, my lord, how can I save Israel? My family is the meanest in Manasseh, and I am the most insignificant in my father’s house.” 16 “I shall be with you,” the LORD said to him, “and you will cut down Midian to the last man.” ...
Only God can give us the peace that world can not give. Amen. Hallelujah!
P S A L M
Psalm 85:9. 11-12. 13-14
R: The Lord speaks of peace to his people.
...Kindness and truth shall meet; justice and peace shall kiss. 11 [12] Truth shall spring out of the earth, and justice shall look down from heaven. (R) 12 [13] The LORD himself will give his benefits; our land shall yield its increase. 13 [14] Justice shall walk before him, and salvation, along the way of his steps.
A task like preparing for death may sound unthinkable for some or even morbid and scary. I say it should not be the case, you know why? If you are aware of a Kingdom of endless glory that awaits us, a 100x more profit and eternal life then we will all be waiting in line so to speak just to invest everything we have for it. It gives us a feeling of consolation too knowing that it doesn't work quite like the way the world thinks. It is not a matter of who was first but who perseveres and not let go of God's promises until the like a champion. In our journey here on earth we encounter so many things in our lives that sometimes push us to the wall and feel like giving up. When we are confronted with such situations we sometimes succumb to the remedies and recommendations that are popularly subscribed to, in this world we are in. It is never easy to live consistently the reality in today's gospel. We doubt, question and resort to the seemingly wise, practical and handy solutions being presented and offered to us in an enticing way. We end up taking for granted what should always be embedded in our hearts, minds and souls. We forget the benefit of knowing that God can do the ultimate good to us than follow the wisdom of men and this world. Amen. Hallelujah!
Matthew 19:23-30
26 Jesus looked at them and said, “For human beings this is impossible, but for God all things are possible.” 27 Then Peter said to him in reply, “We have given up everything and followed you. What will there be for us?” 28 Jesus said to them, “Amen, I say to you that you who have followed me, in the new age, when the Son of Man is seated on his throne of glory, will yourselves sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. 29 And everyone who has given up houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or children or lands for the sake of my name will receive a hundred times more, and will inherit eternal life. 30 But many who are first will be last, and the last will be first.”
Monday, August 15, 2011
CLOSE ENOUGH TO WHISPER…
We are so blessed to have a queen for a mother who is constantly on our side. I am a mother, too and imperfect but I guess being a mother to my 2 sons have surpassed any other emotion I have felt in my lifetime. This makes me feel so confident that the Blessed Virgin Mary who was assumed into heaven and crowned queen is the perfect mother for us. In Fr. Tony's homily he asked the congregation who the Ark of the Covenant is. As Catholics, we refer to Mother Mary as such because she became the bearer of Jesus, the one who brought Him to this world. She was given the singular grace of forming Jesus with her very own flesh inside her body. Jesus is the Lamb of God who takes ways the sin of the world, the Covenant of God's love to His people. Today's reading tells us that victory has already been won and Mary cooperated with God in our salvation when she said yes to God's plan and surrendered to God's will. Today we celebrate the Feast of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, a teaching of the Catholic Church that we should all believe in. It is only right and fitting that the Mother of God be given the special privilege of not undergoing corruption of her human body which became the very flesh that formed our Savior Jesus Christ and be assumed into heaven body and soul. Amen. Hallelujah!
Revelation 11:19a; 12:1-6a, 10ab
God’s temple in heaven was opened, and the ark of his covenant could be seen in the temple. 12: 1 A great sign appeared in the sky, a woman clothed with the sun, with the moon under her feet, and on her head a crown of twelve stars...Then I heard a loud voice in heaven say: “Now have salvation and power come, and the kingdom of our God and the authority of his Anointed One."
Whenever we ask the intercession of the Blessed Mother Mary we can already imagine the Queen of Heaven in God's Kingdom mediating for us at the throne of the Most High God. I have this perfect trust in a mother like the Blessed Virgin Mary. I remember my 2 sons, Allan and Jude when they were still very young, the moment I come home from work they all get too excited and always looking forward to my kiss and embrace. That's why I also ran to the Blessed Mother with the same excitement that children have for their mother. Mary is our queen who deserves everything that God has blessed her with. She is indeed an inspiration and model for us to follow. Where she is right now we also hope to be some day as we strive to become bearers of Jesus and formers of the image of God in our own way. Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalm 45:10, 11, 12, 16
R: The queen stands at your right hand, arrayed in gold.
...They are borne in with gladness and joy; they enter the palace of the king.
We are victorious and reigning with Jesus. We are seated in heavenly places with Him. For God has the power, we should know no defeat only victory. Our God reigns forever more and He is victorious. To whom will we go but to the sure winner and the One who will emerge triumphant. It is all worth it and a win-win situation to give our all and surrender everything to God. Amen. Hallelujah!
1 Corinthians 15:20-27
...“he subjected everything under his feet.”...
During the time when I haven't given birth to Allan yet and Jude was the only son I had back then. He used to wait at our doorstep at exactly the time he expected me to come home. I used to hide behind our gate but my son Jude would become very excited to the point of like a panic state, this may sound a bit exaggerated, but what he did was grind his teeth while his body started to stiffen while extending both arms in a gesture that he wanted me to carry him. But things changed for Jude the moment I gave birth to Allan, he was happier and more secure being left at home knowing that he has a brother with him. I guess, the joy that Jude felt when his baby brother Allan came can be compared to the joy that St. Elizabeth and the baby St. John still in her womb, felt. Mary is sharing the joy of having Jesus to all of us. God chose Mary to be the mother of Jesus and I am sure that God did the right thing in choosing her for she responded to God in a perfect way that none of us her children would be in want or in trouble if we only come to her then we can be sure to also be with Jesus and be the happiest and most secure. Mary is also our mother because Jesus has given her to us at the foot of the cross on that day He saved the world. We should not neglect this important truth that all of us are called to bless ourselves with. Having a loving and caring mother is one of the things every human being should be thankful to God for but more than this is the fact that we have a heavenly mother standing before God and pleading for all her children at all times. She is now in heaven with God and that gives her a place that is close enough to God to whisper in His ears whatever she asks for the sake of her children. If there's one thing we should not be forgetful of and always think about then this is it. Amen. Hallelujah!
Luke 1:39-56
...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...
Revelation 11:19a; 12:1-6a, 10ab
God’s temple in heaven was opened, and the ark of his covenant could be seen in the temple. 12: 1 A great sign appeared in the sky, a woman clothed with the sun, with the moon under her feet, and on her head a crown of twelve stars...Then I heard a loud voice in heaven say: “Now have salvation and power come, and the kingdom of our God and the authority of his Anointed One."
Whenever we ask the intercession of the Blessed Mother Mary we can already imagine the Queen of Heaven in God's Kingdom mediating for us at the throne of the Most High God. I have this perfect trust in a mother like the Blessed Virgin Mary. I remember my 2 sons, Allan and Jude when they were still very young, the moment I come home from work they all get too excited and always looking forward to my kiss and embrace. That's why I also ran to the Blessed Mother with the same excitement that children have for their mother. Mary is our queen who deserves everything that God has blessed her with. She is indeed an inspiration and model for us to follow. Where she is right now we also hope to be some day as we strive to become bearers of Jesus and formers of the image of God in our own way. Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalm 45:10, 11, 12, 16
R: The queen stands at your right hand, arrayed in gold.
...They are borne in with gladness and joy; they enter the palace of the king.
We are victorious and reigning with Jesus. We are seated in heavenly places with Him. For God has the power, we should know no defeat only victory. Our God reigns forever more and He is victorious. To whom will we go but to the sure winner and the One who will emerge triumphant. It is all worth it and a win-win situation to give our all and surrender everything to God. Amen. Hallelujah!
1 Corinthians 15:20-27
...“he subjected everything under his feet.”...
During the time when I haven't given birth to Allan yet and Jude was the only son I had back then. He used to wait at our doorstep at exactly the time he expected me to come home. I used to hide behind our gate but my son Jude would become very excited to the point of like a panic state, this may sound a bit exaggerated, but what he did was grind his teeth while his body started to stiffen while extending both arms in a gesture that he wanted me to carry him. But things changed for Jude the moment I gave birth to Allan, he was happier and more secure being left at home knowing that he has a brother with him. I guess, the joy that Jude felt when his baby brother Allan came can be compared to the joy that St. Elizabeth and the baby St. John still in her womb, felt. Mary is sharing the joy of having Jesus to all of us. God chose Mary to be the mother of Jesus and I am sure that God did the right thing in choosing her for she responded to God in a perfect way that none of us her children would be in want or in trouble if we only come to her then we can be sure to also be with Jesus and be the happiest and most secure. Mary is also our mother because Jesus has given her to us at the foot of the cross on that day He saved the world. We should not neglect this important truth that all of us are called to bless ourselves with. Having a loving and caring mother is one of the things every human being should be thankful to God for but more than this is the fact that we have a heavenly mother standing before God and pleading for all her children at all times. She is now in heaven with God and that gives her a place that is close enough to God to whisper in His ears whatever she asks for the sake of her children. If there's one thing we should not be forgetful of and always think about then this is it. Amen. Hallelujah!
Luke 1:39-56
...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...
Sunday, August 14, 2011
AGAINST ALL ODDS
The Lord has become more persistent in His messages about us doing what is right and just. These were the same words that struck me in yesterday's 1st reading. There seemed to be an urgency to it for it is also stated that the time of justice is at hand. Amen. Hallelujah!
Isaiah 56:1, 6-71 Thus says the LORD: Observe what is right, do what is just; for my salvation is about to come, my justice, about to be revealed.
Although God's mercy is enormous and endless, we should not take it for granted and think that we can do what we want right now in a wayward manner. It is only wise that we avail of God's mercy while we still can. Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalm 67:2-3, 5, 6, 8 (4)
R: O God, let all the nations praise you!
1 [2] 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.
There is a time for everything. Although I have mentioned earlier that the time of justice is at hand, right now, God is inviting us to be immersed in His ocean of mercy. Amen. Hallelujah!
Romans 11:13-15, 29-32
29 For the gifts and the call of God are irrevocable. 30 Just as you once disobeyed God but have now received mercy because of their disobedience, 31 so they have now disobeyed in order that, by virtue of the mercy shown to you, they too may [now] receive mercy.
It pays to always have a strong faith in God. No matter what our situation may be. We should follow the example of this woman in the gospel where she lowered down her pride, and was very humble in coming before Jesus. This same woman got the answer to her prayer and got her heart's desire because of her perseverance and persistence. Whatever we we’ve been through, are going through and will still go through, let us have the great faith of this Canaanite woman who never gave up against all odds and received the answer to her request to Jesus. There are times in our life when we are pushed to the limits and we sometimes give in to pressure and pride because we want to save face and protect our ego. Last night we learned from the prayer meeting that EGO stands for E = edge, G = God and O = out. If we are being egoistic then what we do is edge God out. We put God aside and put ourselves in the center instead. This happens when instead of taking things that come to us with a heart of faith we end up responding in an ill mannered way which always makes things worse. When we hear unpleasant things being said to us we can always learn something from the wise humility of this woman. We should always try to look at things in a positive and constructive way rather than in the offensive way. Today's gospel shows us how this woman really stood up for her faith despite of it all. She openly professed in public her great faith and confidence in God's power by maintaining her belief that everyone can take part in God's grace. It is open to all and no one is excluded. Amen. Hallelujah!
Matthew 15:21-28
...“Lord, help me.” 26 He said in reply, “It is not right to take the food of the children and throw it to the dogs.” 27 She said, “Please, Lord, for even the dogs eat the scraps that fall from the table of their masters.” 28 Then Jesus said to her in reply, “O woman, great is your faith! Let it be done for you as you wish.” And her daughter was healed from that hour.
Isaiah 56:1, 6-71 Thus says the LORD: Observe what is right, do what is just; for my salvation is about to come, my justice, about to be revealed.
Although God's mercy is enormous and endless, we should not take it for granted and think that we can do what we want right now in a wayward manner. It is only wise that we avail of God's mercy while we still can. Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalm 67:2-3, 5, 6, 8 (4)
R: O God, let all the nations praise you!
1 [2] 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.
There is a time for everything. Although I have mentioned earlier that the time of justice is at hand, right now, God is inviting us to be immersed in His ocean of mercy. Amen. Hallelujah!
Romans 11:13-15, 29-32
29 For the gifts and the call of God are irrevocable. 30 Just as you once disobeyed God but have now received mercy because of their disobedience, 31 so they have now disobeyed in order that, by virtue of the mercy shown to you, they too may [now] receive mercy.
It pays to always have a strong faith in God. No matter what our situation may be. We should follow the example of this woman in the gospel where she lowered down her pride, and was very humble in coming before Jesus. This same woman got the answer to her prayer and got her heart's desire because of her perseverance and persistence. Whatever we we’ve been through, are going through and will still go through, let us have the great faith of this Canaanite woman who never gave up against all odds and received the answer to her request to Jesus. There are times in our life when we are pushed to the limits and we sometimes give in to pressure and pride because we want to save face and protect our ego. Last night we learned from the prayer meeting that EGO stands for E = edge, G = God and O = out. If we are being egoistic then what we do is edge God out. We put God aside and put ourselves in the center instead. This happens when instead of taking things that come to us with a heart of faith we end up responding in an ill mannered way which always makes things worse. When we hear unpleasant things being said to us we can always learn something from the wise humility of this woman. We should always try to look at things in a positive and constructive way rather than in the offensive way. Today's gospel shows us how this woman really stood up for her faith despite of it all. She openly professed in public her great faith and confidence in God's power by maintaining her belief that everyone can take part in God's grace. It is open to all and no one is excluded. Amen. Hallelujah!
Matthew 15:21-28
...“Lord, help me.” 26 He said in reply, “It is not right to take the food of the children and throw it to the dogs.” 27 She said, “Please, Lord, for even the dogs eat the scraps that fall from the table of their masters.” 28 Then Jesus said to her in reply, “O woman, great is your faith! Let it be done for you as you wish.” And her daughter was healed from that hour.
Saturday, August 13, 2011
OUR INHERITANCE
God have long ago established everything there is for us to follow and do. It is now just a matter of choice since we are always given a choice and the free will to decide. Today's 1st reading speaks of Joshua's declaration to serve the Lord and the obvious firmness in his decision without considering whether they will follow him or not. He made it clear that his decision to serve the Lord is his personal commitment and will not have anything to do with the decision of others. He is so convinced of it that he did not have to say anything more to win them over to his side rather left them all to decide for themselves. God will never force Himself on us and will always be the Perfect Gentleman. It is all up to us to decide. Amen. Hallelujah!
Joshua 24:14-29
...Joshua addressed all the people 15 “If it does not please you to serve the LORD, decide today whom you will serve, the gods your fathers served beyond the River or the gods of the Amorites in whose country you are dwelling. As for me and my household, we will serve the LORD.” ...
There may be some negative speculations and forecasts that are being hurled right in front of us about our present situations most especially with the uncertainty and unpredictability of prevailing conditions. They say that nowadays, whatever we hold true for now may not be the case later. It is a consolation to know that in the midst of this unsure world we still have something that we can hold on to. The words of God can stand the test of time and will remain to be true from generation to generation. We must be secured in the knowledge that as children of God our Father we are heirs of His Kingdom and co-owners of this vast creation. May we find the Lord as the only treasure in our lives worth keeping because everything will follow. When God calls us for a task we should always be ready, willing and able to follow Him no matter what the cost. Sometimes we are confronted with so many allurements that we begin to be influenced by the way the world judges things. Let us always hold fast to God's views and ideals that we may not lose sight of our inheritance. Nothing else could be worth more than this. Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalm 16:1-2, 5, 7-8, 9-10, 11
R: You are my inheritance, O Lord.
1 Keep me, O God, for in you I take refuge; 2 I say to the LORD, “My Lord are you. 5 O LORD, my allotted portion and my cup, you it is who hold fast my lot.” ...Therefore my heart is glad and my soul rejoices, my body, too, abides in confidence 10 because you will not abandon my soul to the nether world, nor will you suffer your faithful one to undergo corruption. (R) 11 You will show me the path to life, fullness of joys in your presence, the delights at your right hand forever.
Let us strive to become like the children who are always open to the truth and do not settle for lies. We ought to be like the little children who possess a clean and totally surrendered heart to the Lord in order to get a hold of our inheritance and belong to the kingdom of heaven. Amen. Hallelujah!
Matthew 19:13-15
13 Children were brought to Jesus that he might lay his hands on them and pray. The disciples rebuked them, 14 but Jesus said, “Let the children come to me, and do not prevent them; for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” 15 After he placed his hands on them, he went away.
Joshua 24:14-29
...Joshua addressed all the people 15 “If it does not please you to serve the LORD, decide today whom you will serve, the gods your fathers served beyond the River or the gods of the Amorites in whose country you are dwelling. As for me and my household, we will serve the LORD.” ...
There may be some negative speculations and forecasts that are being hurled right in front of us about our present situations most especially with the uncertainty and unpredictability of prevailing conditions. They say that nowadays, whatever we hold true for now may not be the case later. It is a consolation to know that in the midst of this unsure world we still have something that we can hold on to. The words of God can stand the test of time and will remain to be true from generation to generation. We must be secured in the knowledge that as children of God our Father we are heirs of His Kingdom and co-owners of this vast creation. May we find the Lord as the only treasure in our lives worth keeping because everything will follow. When God calls us for a task we should always be ready, willing and able to follow Him no matter what the cost. Sometimes we are confronted with so many allurements that we begin to be influenced by the way the world judges things. Let us always hold fast to God's views and ideals that we may not lose sight of our inheritance. Nothing else could be worth more than this. Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalm 16:1-2, 5, 7-8, 9-10, 11
R: You are my inheritance, O Lord.
1 Keep me, O God, for in you I take refuge; 2 I say to the LORD, “My Lord are you. 5 O LORD, my allotted portion and my cup, you it is who hold fast my lot.” ...Therefore my heart is glad and my soul rejoices, my body, too, abides in confidence 10 because you will not abandon my soul to the nether world, nor will you suffer your faithful one to undergo corruption. (R) 11 You will show me the path to life, fullness of joys in your presence, the delights at your right hand forever.
Let us strive to become like the children who are always open to the truth and do not settle for lies. We ought to be like the little children who possess a clean and totally surrendered heart to the Lord in order to get a hold of our inheritance and belong to the kingdom of heaven. Amen. Hallelujah!
Matthew 19:13-15
13 Children were brought to Jesus that he might lay his hands on them and pray. The disciples rebuked them, 14 but Jesus said, “Let the children come to me, and do not prevent them; for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” 15 After he placed his hands on them, he went away.
Friday, August 12, 2011
ACCEPTANCE
Joshua in today's 1st reading enumerated all the victories and mighty saving power of God from the time of Abraham to their present situation. It was really undeniable that our God is full of power and might. If we will just look at our own lives we will find out that we are no different than the Israelites, the chosen and beloved people of God. He was with us every step of the way, weathering it all through the sorrow, difficulty, pain and finally to always witness the sweet taste of victory and success. Amen. Hallelujah!
Joshua 24:1-13
...After you witnessed what I did to Egypt, and dwelt a long time in the desert, 8 I brought you into the land of the Amorites who lived east of the Jordan. They fought against you, but I delivered them into your power. You took possession of their land, and I destroyed them [the two kings of the Amorites] before you. 9 Then Balak, son of Zippor, king of Moab, prepared to war against Israel. He summoned Balaam, son of Beor, to curse you; 10 but I would not listen to Balaam. On the contrary, he had to bless you, and I saved you from him. 11 Once you crossed the Jordan and came to Jericho, the men of Jericho fought against you, but I delivered them also into your power. 12 And I sent the hornets ahead of you which drove them [the Amorites, Perizzites, Canaanites, Hittites, Girgashites, Hivites and Jebusites] out of your way; it was not your sword or your bow. 13 “I gave you a land which you had not tilled and cities which you had not built, to dwell in; you have eaten of vineyards and olive groves which you did not plant.”
During our darkest hour may we always remember and not forget the wonderful things God has done for us and at the same time make the learning experiences no matter how bitter and unpleasant it may be serve as a strong reminder of the lessons we have learned the hard way making it memorable enough and not easy to neglect and take for granted. We will always find the mercy of God granted to us numerous times already and repeatedly as it is stated in today's psalm
P S A L M
Psalm 136:1-3. 16-18. 21-22 and 24
R: His mercy endures forever.
...Who led his people through the wilderness, for his mercy endures forever; 17 who smote great kings, for his mercy endures forever; 18 and slew powerful kings, for his mercy endures forever. (R) 21 And made their land a heritage, for his mercy endures forever; 22 the heritage of Israel his servant, for his mercy endures forever; 24 and freed us from our foes,...
People nowadays no longer subscribe to what the Church teaches about the indissolubility of marriage. We can see it from the numerous cases of divorce and broken marriages all around us. It is so disheartening that married couples no longer consider the truth that it isn't just a union between man and woman but most importantly with God. Let us always think of marriage as not just a two way relationship but a triangle with God in the center. If we start to neglect or forget about this vital element then surely the marriage is bound to break once incompatible factors between 2 different individuals like man and woman set in. This is one of the reasons why everything should be directed to God in prayers. Although there may be other things to consider here, everything just fades in comparison to the truth that God is able to hold everything together like marriage for example if He is in the center. It may not be easy to accept these things if we ourselves are not completely convinced especially with the present situation that is going on all over the world with regards to marriage. Despite of it all and more than anything else, we ought to hold on to God's word and allow it to be fulfilled in our lives. Let us commit to this very important reality and advice in today's gospel which is just right and fitting as we ought to do in Jesus name. Even in other areas and aspects of our lives, there are situations and events that we find hard to let go and avoid doing. Sometimes we find ourselves doing the same old mistakes and sins all over again. We ask ourselves, why and somehow today's gospel gives us an explanation although the issue here is about marriage we can also compare it with other things that affect our Christian life. We've come to this era or period of time when people develop a loose morality and everything seems to have become acceptable especially nowadays when the prevailing and existing situation greatly favors the popular demand of the majority. As human beings we have this desire to be accepted in the society where we belong and find it hard to define very clearly what is right and wrong in a society that has been so influenced by the values of this world. We'll just find ourselves up against something that has won over the acceptance and approval of this materialistic, practical and commercial place where we live. It is sometimes not easy to always stand up for what is right and be looked upon as not in conformity with the rest. It is always easy to just go with the flow instead of counteract especially when we deal with people who are born the way they are that it seems impossible to force them into something that is totally out of their range. Nonetheless, Jesus in today's gospel admonishes us to follow the commandments that serve as guidelines that the Lord our God has set before us but continues to respect our free will to decide what we ought to accept or not. Amen. Hallelujah!
Matthew 19:3-12
3 Some Pharisees approached Jesus, and tested him, saying, “Is it lawful for a man to divorce his wife for any cause whatever?” 4 He said in reply, “Have you not read that from the beginning the Creator ‘made them male and female’ 5 and said, ‘For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh’? 6 So they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore, what God has joined together, no human being must separate.” 7 They said to him, “Then why did Moses command that the man give the woman a bill of divorce and dismiss [her]?” 8 He said to them, “Because of the hardness of your hearts Moses allowed you to divorce your wives, but from the beginning it was not so. 9 I say to you, whoever divorces his wife (unless the marriage is unlawful) and marries another commits adultery.” 10 [His] disciples said to him, “If that is the case of a man with his wife, it is better not to marry.” 11 He answered, “Not all can accept this word, but only those to whom that is granted. 12 Some are incapable of marriage because they were born so; some, because they were made so by others; some, because they have renounced marriage for the sake of the kingdom of heaven. Whoever can accept this ought to accept it.”
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