Today's 1st reading speaks of the consequences of the failure to conduct ourselves right, the way a people of God would. Time and again even way back in the Old Testament, the New Testament and up to the present time. God wants to have a relationship with His people. God has made the new, perfect and everlasting covenant, as shown in the repetitive words that can be found all throughout the scriptures, "I will be your God and you will be My people." There is no doubt about the faithfulness of God in fulfilling His part of the covenant because He has shown from generation to generation that he is indeed our God but have we fulfilled our part of the covenant in truly being a people of God. We might want to pause and ask ourselves this very question and not end up always asking God why we witness so much chaos and disorder nowadays. It is time we make a real effort to let the goodness of God prevail. Amen. Hallelujah!
Baruch 1:15-22
...And the evils and the curse which the LORD enjoined upon Moses, his servant, at the time he led our fathers forth from the land of Egypt to give us the land flowing with milk and honey, cling to us even today. 21 For we did not heed the voice of the LORD, our God, in all the words of the prophets whom he sent us, 22 but each one of us went off after the devices of our own wicked hearts, served other gods, and did evil in the sight of the LORD, our God.”
There are 2 bible verses quoted which I consider very special and of great importance to me. The first is from Romans 8:28 which says that, "We know that all things work for good for those who love God,who are called according to his purpose. For those he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son..." The second one is from Ephesians 6:10-17, "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.So stand fast with your loins girded in truth, clothed with righteousness as a breastplate,and your feet shod in readiness for the gospel of peace. In all circumstances, hold faith as a shield, to quench all (the) flaming arrows of the evil one.And take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God." It is noteworthy that we realize the important aspect in this bible passage about the need to wear an armor and most especially for us to realize the need for a weapon when we engage in battle and the only weapon mentioned is the sword which is the word of God. Sometimes we tend to look at things in a general way and miss the important details or only see, read and hear the things that we want and do not take the words of God in its entirety. There are lots of prosperity preachers who present the word of God in this manner and tend to overlook the equally important details and instructions that God also wanted us to pay attention to. God has definitely made it clear that everything will work for good but just the same, we have to take note of the following words which say that we need to conform to the image of Jesus. We definitely should not miss nor overlook this so that we can surely be saved and delivered. Amen. Hallelujah!
P S A L M
Psalm 79:1b-2. 3-5. 8. 9
R: For the glory of your name, O Lord, deliver us.
...Remember not against us the iniquities of the past; may your compassion quickly come to us, for we are brought very low. (R) 9 Help us, O God our savior, because of the glory of your name; deliver us and pardon our sins for your name’s sake.
We can surely benefit from paying attention to details at times. Or maybe there are times when we are completely aware of the details but just plain stubborn and hard headed. God gives us instructions that are very clear, the problem lies not in the things we ought to do but in us. In the 1st reading we are made aware of the consequences of our inability to fulfill our part of the covenant with God. The psalm reading further brings us to the realization that only God can bring us out of our miseries and there's nothing more sensible to do but obey God. Finally the gospel shakes us and wakes our senses to the pitfalls that we, Christians usually fall into as we fail to look into the details and really get the message whenever we are called to listen and accept Jesus in our lives. If we are to really pay close attention to the words of Jesus in today's gospel we will find that He used the word, woe which is defined as grievous distress, affliction, or trouble and is synonymous to anguish, tribulation, trial, wretchedness and melancholy. It is quite a strong word that people in the time of Jesus use to emphasize a point and get a serious message across. I guess, it applies not just to them but to us as well. It is very sad that the people in His time and nowadays do not differ much in this aspect. We've got to respond to this reality and call. Let us feast on the mighty deeds of Jesus rather than wait for something really woeful before we wake our senses up. Amen. Hallelujah!
Luke 10:13-16 (or Matthew 18:1-5. 10)
13 Jesus said to them, “Woe to you, Chorazin! Woe to you, Bethsaida! For if the mighty deeds done in your midst had been done in Tyre and Sidon, they would long ago have repented, sitting in sackcloth and ashes. 14 But it will be more tolerable for Tyre and Sidon at the judgment than for you. 15 And as for you, Capernaum, ‘Will you be exalted to heaven? You will go down to the netherworld.’ ” 16 Whoever listens to you listens to me. Whoever rejects you rejects me. And whoever rejects me rejects the one who sent me.”
Friday, September 30, 2011
Thursday, September 29, 2011
ANGELS TO THE RESCUE
Today is the Feast of Sts. Michael, Gabriel and Raphael, Archangels. Gabriel means ‘messenger of God;’ Raphael means ‘healing of God’ and Michael means ‘strength of God.’ It is so reassuring that as Catholics we believe in their existence as the bible tells us so and can call upon their intercession and help in our lives. For example, we invoke Michael for protection in our lives. I have already shared this several times and I will not hesitate to share it again in order to give due recognition to the angels that God sends our way to help us. I can never forget when I attended a prayer healing in the Holy Family Church here at Glendale headed by Bro. Carmelo from Sta. Maria Bulacan. He gave each one of us a fresh white rose petal which he placed on our chest and after praying we were told to remove it in order for us to take a look at it. At first, I thought I was seeing a butterfly but when I looked at it closer I saw an image of an angel. It was the image of a cherubim, a very cute angel that I still carry with me to this day and served as a constant reminder that I am loved since I got it from this healing service in Oct 21, 2007 which happened to be also my mother's birthday. There are many special events that I can associate with the angel miraculously imprinted in the fresh petal I got. Prior to this I had extraordinary experiences within the month of Oct. 2007 surrounding and pointing to it. This coming October 2 is the feast day of the guardian angels and it was at that time in 2007 when I almost lost my wallet with all my cash money in it. My friend Joy and I were already 2 blocks away from the restaurant where we ate when I suddenly felt a tap in my shoulder which alerted me to the fact that I do not have my wallet inside my purse. It was a tap so quick and it felt like I was just imagining it. We quickly returned to look for my wallet but Joy told me that there is a chance we might not find it anymore because she saw a bum circling around the place before we left. Both to our surprise, I found my wallet lying on the floor and picked it up immediately. A woman who was also there and saw what happened told me that I am very lucky. 2 weeks after that, still within Oct 2007 my name got picked in a Nurse Expo lottery and won a $1000 gift card. It is a testimony of God's everlasting love and mercy. There is no doubt that angels are always about us, ministering and attending to our needs. Thanks be to God that He has sent His angel to always guide and protect me. If we allow God to take full control in our lives then we can be assured of His everlasting dominion and glory that can not be taken away nor destroyed. Amen. Hallelujah
Daniel 7:9-10, 13-14 (or Revelation 12:7-12a)
...Thousands upon thousands were ministering to him, and myriads upon myriads attended him...
I have always believed in angels even before I got the miracle petal. I can still remember and will never forget how my mother used to narrate to us how I was miraculously saved by my angel several times. First was when I was still less than 2 months old, I guess, and I fell from a height of 2-3 ft countertop when the nanny after giving me a bath left me for only a second to get something and upon returning found me already unconscious and lying on the hard, ceramic tiled floor. I was rushed to the doctor but he told them that if I fail to regain consciousness within an hour then he said I am gone. To everybody's surprise I started to cry even before the time is up. Another one was when I was barely 2 yrs old when I almost got hit by a speeding jeepney. My parent's house is right beside my grandparent's house which is right in front of the school where my mother used to be a public school teacher. She said she was standing in the center of the stage of the school that was why she had a good view of the things around her even the terrace of my grandparent's house so she got the shock of her life when she saw me there alone running very fast heading toward the open gate while a speeding jeepney was coming and looked as if I would really get hit and it would be too late even if somebody was there to stop me. She was already screaming from afar together with the other teachers who saw it and was trying to call the attention of the driver but to no avail for he didn't even slow down because their screams were of no match to the loud engine of the jeep. It was just a miracle that the moment I stepped on the side of the road she said that I suddenly stopped and stood very still as if someone was holding me back. She said it was my guardian angel that held me and prevented me from getting hit by the jeep. I don't remember personally any of those experiences it was only through my mother's stories that I came to know about them. But when I was older like in 4th grade I could already remember how I was spared again from being hurt seriously when the fluorescent lamp right on top of my head fell on my desk a split second after I stood up and left my chair. My classmates were really shocked and were hovering around me and told me that it was really close. There is no doubt that we should sing the praises of the Lord in the sight of the angels. Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalm 138:1-2ab, 2cde-3, 4-5
R: In the sight of the angels I will sing your praises, Lord.
1 I will give thanks to you, O LORD, with all my heart, for you have heard the words of my mouth; in the presence of the angels I will sing your praise; 2 I will worship at your holy temple and give thanks to your name. (R) Because of your kindness and your truth; for you have made great above all things your name and your promise. 3 When I called, you answered me; you built up strength within me. (R) 4 All the kings of the earth shall give thanks to you, O LORD, when they hear the words of your mouth; 5 and they shall sing of the ways of the LORD: “Great is the glory of the LORD.”
If we just try to look back and recall we will find that all throughout our lifetimes we really have a lot of things to be thankful for. 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 profess with confidence the very words that he said to Jesus and really believe in words, thoughts and deeds. On top of it all is the promise of Jesus our Savior to see greater things than we have all witnessed for the best is yet to come. Amen. Hallelujah!
John 1:47-51
...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.”
Daniel 7:9-10, 13-14 (or Revelation 12:7-12a)
...Thousands upon thousands were ministering to him, and myriads upon myriads attended him...
I have always believed in angels even before I got the miracle petal. I can still remember and will never forget how my mother used to narrate to us how I was miraculously saved by my angel several times. First was when I was still less than 2 months old, I guess, and I fell from a height of 2-3 ft countertop when the nanny after giving me a bath left me for only a second to get something and upon returning found me already unconscious and lying on the hard, ceramic tiled floor. I was rushed to the doctor but he told them that if I fail to regain consciousness within an hour then he said I am gone. To everybody's surprise I started to cry even before the time is up. Another one was when I was barely 2 yrs old when I almost got hit by a speeding jeepney. My parent's house is right beside my grandparent's house which is right in front of the school where my mother used to be a public school teacher. She said she was standing in the center of the stage of the school that was why she had a good view of the things around her even the terrace of my grandparent's house so she got the shock of her life when she saw me there alone running very fast heading toward the open gate while a speeding jeepney was coming and looked as if I would really get hit and it would be too late even if somebody was there to stop me. She was already screaming from afar together with the other teachers who saw it and was trying to call the attention of the driver but to no avail for he didn't even slow down because their screams were of no match to the loud engine of the jeep. It was just a miracle that the moment I stepped on the side of the road she said that I suddenly stopped and stood very still as if someone was holding me back. She said it was my guardian angel that held me and prevented me from getting hit by the jeep. I don't remember personally any of those experiences it was only through my mother's stories that I came to know about them. But when I was older like in 4th grade I could already remember how I was spared again from being hurt seriously when the fluorescent lamp right on top of my head fell on my desk a split second after I stood up and left my chair. My classmates were really shocked and were hovering around me and told me that it was really close. There is no doubt that we should sing the praises of the Lord in the sight of the angels. Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalm 138:1-2ab, 2cde-3, 4-5
R: In the sight of the angels I will sing your praises, Lord.
1 I will give thanks to you, O LORD, with all my heart, for you have heard the words of my mouth; in the presence of the angels I will sing your praise; 2 I will worship at your holy temple and give thanks to your name. (R) Because of your kindness and your truth; for you have made great above all things your name and your promise. 3 When I called, you answered me; you built up strength within me. (R) 4 All the kings of the earth shall give thanks to you, O LORD, when they hear the words of your mouth; 5 and they shall sing of the ways of the LORD: “Great is the glory of the LORD.”
If we just try to look back and recall we will find that all throughout our lifetimes we really have a lot of things to be thankful for. 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 profess with confidence the very words that he said to Jesus and really believe in words, thoughts and deeds. On top of it all is the promise of Jesus our Savior to see greater things than we have all witnessed for the best is yet to come. Amen. Hallelujah!
John 1:47-51
...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.”
Wednesday, September 28, 2011
FIT FOR THE KINGDOM
Today's 1st reading impressed in my heart the words requests and favoring. This made me remember the many works of charity and mercy that I have witnessed in the community of God. We have all been to a point in our lives when we have experienced that our requests are granted and are given favors. It feels good when we encounter brothers and sisters in Christ, who have in one way or another shown their dependability and being an accommodating friend to us. We must not forget and always remember that these are all coming from the Lord and as we appreciate them we are also giving glory to God whose favoring hand is upon us. Amen. Hallelujah!
Nehemiah 2:1-8
...The king granted my requests, for the favoring hand of my God was upon me.
There are times when we forget or simply keep silent about the goodness done to us by other people. Though, it doesn't mean that we don't appreciate or have gratitude to them. What's most important is that every good thing done whether in secret or public can not escape the notice or attention of God who will definitely act according to what an All Knowing, Almighty, Holy and Immortal God deem fit and proper. We have our own personal reasons for not making it known or just simply forgetting about it and making it known. The psalm reading encourages us to always give praise to God in words, thoughts and deeds. Amen. Hallelujah!
P S A L M
Psalm 137:1-2. 3. 4-5. 6
R: Let my tongue be silenced if I ever forget you!
...May my tongue cleave to my palate if I remember you not, if I place not Jerusalem ahead of my joy.
Who is fit for the kingdom of God? Do you know how many times the word heaven or the kingdom of God is mentioned in the bible? 832 times. That's how many it is. There are so many images and symbols used to describe heaven. God obviously wants us to know about it so that we can be with Him there. God the Father, Jesus, the Son and the Holy Spirit, the Most Blessed Trinity is in heaven. Jesus the 2nd Person in the Trinity has gone before us to prepare a place for us. He said that He will come back again so that where He is we can also be. Jesus teaches about heaven in so many ways. Sometimes it is easier to picture something in stories and words. When Jesus taught, He liked to take examples of everyday life of the people and teach us about the kingdom of heaven a place of joy and happiness beyond our imagination. There are many images of heaven that are presented to us by Jesus in the bible. Everything that we suffered for the kingdom of God will be rewarded a hundredfold in heaven. God invites us to join Him and enjoy heaven that was prepared for us before the foundation of the world. It is not easy to always do the right thing. Sometimes we fail to respond in the best manner possible. Today's gospel gives a tip on how to do it according to the way of Jesus. We should always do things for the greater glory of God without any hesitation or doubt. Every single day we are always confronted with a lot of decisions that demonstrate where our loyalty lies. We may have decided on something but as we go along the way we find things that do not suit our comfort and expectations. This may cause us to have 2nd thoughts and doubts whether we really made the right decision or worse whether we still maintain the same conviction that we have before encountering this discouraging situation. For as long as we honestly and sincerely know in our hearts and minds that we intended to follow Jesus and acted on it then we should make a decision to really stick to it and never back out for to be fit for the kingdom of God is all worth it. Amen. Hallelujah!
Luke 9: 57-62
57 As Jesus and his disciples were proceeding on their journey someone said to him, “I will follow you wherever you go.” ...61 And another said, “I will follow you, Lord, but first let me say farewell to my family at home.” 62 Jesus answered him, “No one who sets a hand to the plow and looks to what was left behind is fit for the kingdom of God.”
Nehemiah 2:1-8
...The king granted my requests, for the favoring hand of my God was upon me.
There are times when we forget or simply keep silent about the goodness done to us by other people. Though, it doesn't mean that we don't appreciate or have gratitude to them. What's most important is that every good thing done whether in secret or public can not escape the notice or attention of God who will definitely act according to what an All Knowing, Almighty, Holy and Immortal God deem fit and proper. We have our own personal reasons for not making it known or just simply forgetting about it and making it known. The psalm reading encourages us to always give praise to God in words, thoughts and deeds. Amen. Hallelujah!
P S A L M
Psalm 137:1-2. 3. 4-5. 6
R: Let my tongue be silenced if I ever forget you!
...May my tongue cleave to my palate if I remember you not, if I place not Jerusalem ahead of my joy.
Who is fit for the kingdom of God? Do you know how many times the word heaven or the kingdom of God is mentioned in the bible? 832 times. That's how many it is. There are so many images and symbols used to describe heaven. God obviously wants us to know about it so that we can be with Him there. God the Father, Jesus, the Son and the Holy Spirit, the Most Blessed Trinity is in heaven. Jesus the 2nd Person in the Trinity has gone before us to prepare a place for us. He said that He will come back again so that where He is we can also be. Jesus teaches about heaven in so many ways. Sometimes it is easier to picture something in stories and words. When Jesus taught, He liked to take examples of everyday life of the people and teach us about the kingdom of heaven a place of joy and happiness beyond our imagination. There are many images of heaven that are presented to us by Jesus in the bible. Everything that we suffered for the kingdom of God will be rewarded a hundredfold in heaven. God invites us to join Him and enjoy heaven that was prepared for us before the foundation of the world. It is not easy to always do the right thing. Sometimes we fail to respond in the best manner possible. Today's gospel gives a tip on how to do it according to the way of Jesus. We should always do things for the greater glory of God without any hesitation or doubt. Every single day we are always confronted with a lot of decisions that demonstrate where our loyalty lies. We may have decided on something but as we go along the way we find things that do not suit our comfort and expectations. This may cause us to have 2nd thoughts and doubts whether we really made the right decision or worse whether we still maintain the same conviction that we have before encountering this discouraging situation. For as long as we honestly and sincerely know in our hearts and minds that we intended to follow Jesus and acted on it then we should make a decision to really stick to it and never back out for to be fit for the kingdom of God is all worth it. Amen. Hallelujah!
Luke 9: 57-62
57 As Jesus and his disciples were proceeding on their journey someone said to him, “I will follow you wherever you go.” ...61 And another said, “I will follow you, Lord, but first let me say farewell to my family at home.” 62 Jesus answered him, “No one who sets a hand to the plow and looks to what was left behind is fit for the kingdom of God.”
Tuesday, September 27, 2011
IT’S PAID
These past few weeks we have been blessed with several gatherings that are spirit filled. It started with the Growth in the Spirit (GSS) in St. Martha followed by the LOJF Retreat in Big Bear, the San Lorenzo celebration, the anointing of the St. Martha parishioners with Padre Pio’s relic on his feast day by the pastor himself and another GSS in Elizabeth Ann Seton with a charismatic priest from the Philippines. This coming week the parishioners are looking forward to the upcoming healing mass of Fr. Corsi de Legaspi in St. Martha. All these gatherings are ministered by priests and very gifted preachers. It is indeed a blessed gift from the Lord that He sends them in the service of God’s people. Amen. Hallelujah!
Zechariah 8:20-23
20 Thus says the LORD of hosts: There shall yet come peoples, the inhabitants of many cities; 21 and the inhabitants of one city shall approach those of another, and say, “Come! let us go to implore the favour of the LORD”; and, “I too will go to seek the LORD.” 22 Many peoples and strong nations shall come to seek the LORD of hosts in Jerusalem and to implore the favor of the LORD. 23 Thus says the LORD of hosts: In those days ten men of every nationality, speaking different tongues, shall take hold, yes, take hold of every Jew by the edge of his garment and say, “Let us go with you, for we have heard that God is with you.”
It is just overwhelming whenever people meet as one family of God during occasions like these. It feels good to be always reminded of how God looks after the needs of each member of a community. He is indeed, God with us. Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalms 87:1-3, 4-5, 6-7
R: God is with us.
1 His foundation upon the holy mountains 2 the LORD loves, the gates of Zion, more than any dwelling of Jacob. 3 Glorious things are said of you, O city of God! (R) 4 I tell of Egypt and Babylon among those that know the LORD; Of Philistia, Tyre, Ethiopia: “This man was born there.” 5 And of Zion they shall say: “One and all were born in her; and he who has established her is the Most High LORD.” (R) 6 They shall note, when the peoples are enrolled: “This man was born there.” 7 And all shall sing, in their festive dance: “My home is within you.” (R)
No matter what our situation is we should never chicken out and remain steadfast in our faith in God. There are things that we can't run away from no matter how bad it may seem to be. As God, Jesus knew what awaits Him in Jerusalem. We should follow His example when he resolutely determined to go to Jerusalem even though He is aware, being God, that it is where the passion of the cross awaits Him. Sometimes we doubt God's Providence when we encounter difficulties but in today's gospel it is clearly stated that Jesus is firmly resolved or determined to do the will of God the Father. His total obedience and commitment to fulfill His mission on earth did not spare Him from experiencing rejection and despite of it all He maintained in Him a spirit of mercy and forgiveness. He did not have a trace of vengefulness in Him. There is really a lot to learn from Jesus' life here on earth. Jesus was focused on God's will and was determined to fulfill it. Nothing stopped Him from fulfilling it although He pleaded to the Father in the Garden of Gethsemane (Mt. 26:39, He advanced a little and fell prostrate in prayer, saying, "My Father, 25 if it is possible, let this cup pass from me; yet, not as I will, but as you will." and in verse 42 he repeated it again, "Withdrawing a second time, he prayed again, "My Father, if it is not possible that this cup pass without my drinking it, your will be done!" We can all learn from Jesus to be persevering in the problems and difficulties that we face in life for we all know that in the end Jesus triumphed and conquered it all. Let us not forget, He has paid the price and we have all been saved. Amen. Hallelujah!
Luke 9:51-56
51 When the days for Jesus to be taken up were fulfilled, he resolutely determined to journey to Jerusalem, 52 and he sent messengers ahead of him. On the way they entered a Samaritan village to prepare for his reception there, 53 but they would not welcome him because the destination of his journey was Jerusalem. 54 When the disciples James and John saw this they asked, “Lord, do you want us to call down fire from heaven to consume them?” 55 Jesus turned and rebuked them, 56 and they journeyed to another village.
Zechariah 8:20-23
20 Thus says the LORD of hosts: There shall yet come peoples, the inhabitants of many cities; 21 and the inhabitants of one city shall approach those of another, and say, “Come! let us go to implore the favour of the LORD”; and, “I too will go to seek the LORD.” 22 Many peoples and strong nations shall come to seek the LORD of hosts in Jerusalem and to implore the favor of the LORD. 23 Thus says the LORD of hosts: In those days ten men of every nationality, speaking different tongues, shall take hold, yes, take hold of every Jew by the edge of his garment and say, “Let us go with you, for we have heard that God is with you.”
It is just overwhelming whenever people meet as one family of God during occasions like these. It feels good to be always reminded of how God looks after the needs of each member of a community. He is indeed, God with us. Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalms 87:1-3, 4-5, 6-7
R: God is with us.
1 His foundation upon the holy mountains 2 the LORD loves, the gates of Zion, more than any dwelling of Jacob. 3 Glorious things are said of you, O city of God! (R) 4 I tell of Egypt and Babylon among those that know the LORD; Of Philistia, Tyre, Ethiopia: “This man was born there.” 5 And of Zion they shall say: “One and all were born in her; and he who has established her is the Most High LORD.” (R) 6 They shall note, when the peoples are enrolled: “This man was born there.” 7 And all shall sing, in their festive dance: “My home is within you.” (R)
No matter what our situation is we should never chicken out and remain steadfast in our faith in God. There are things that we can't run away from no matter how bad it may seem to be. As God, Jesus knew what awaits Him in Jerusalem. We should follow His example when he resolutely determined to go to Jerusalem even though He is aware, being God, that it is where the passion of the cross awaits Him. Sometimes we doubt God's Providence when we encounter difficulties but in today's gospel it is clearly stated that Jesus is firmly resolved or determined to do the will of God the Father. His total obedience and commitment to fulfill His mission on earth did not spare Him from experiencing rejection and despite of it all He maintained in Him a spirit of mercy and forgiveness. He did not have a trace of vengefulness in Him. There is really a lot to learn from Jesus' life here on earth. Jesus was focused on God's will and was determined to fulfill it. Nothing stopped Him from fulfilling it although He pleaded to the Father in the Garden of Gethsemane (Mt. 26:39, He advanced a little and fell prostrate in prayer, saying, "My Father, 25 if it is possible, let this cup pass from me; yet, not as I will, but as you will." and in verse 42 he repeated it again, "Withdrawing a second time, he prayed again, "My Father, if it is not possible that this cup pass without my drinking it, your will be done!" We can all learn from Jesus to be persevering in the problems and difficulties that we face in life for we all know that in the end Jesus triumphed and conquered it all. Let us not forget, He has paid the price and we have all been saved. Amen. Hallelujah!
Luke 9:51-56
51 When the days for Jesus to be taken up were fulfilled, he resolutely determined to journey to Jerusalem, 52 and he sent messengers ahead of him. On the way they entered a Samaritan village to prepare for his reception there, 53 but they would not welcome him because the destination of his journey was Jerusalem. 54 When the disciples James and John saw this they asked, “Lord, do you want us to call down fire from heaven to consume them?” 55 Jesus turned and rebuked them, 56 and they journeyed to another village.
Monday, September 26, 2011
UNITED WE STAND, DIVIDED WE FALL
God assures us time and again that He will never forsake nor abandon but instead rescue His people. There is no doubt to this because God is always our God and He is faithful but with regards to other part of the covenant that we shall be His people, are we faithful to this part of the bargain? Let us closely examine ourselves and find out if we are fulfilling this part of the agreement. We might as well ask ourselves, how we can become God's people in the truest sense of the word. Amen. Hallelujah!
Zechariah 8:1-8
...Thus says the LORD of hosts: Lo, I will rescue my people from the land of the rising sun, and from the land of the setting sun. 8 I will bring them back to dwell within Jerusalem. They shall be my people, and I will be their God, with faithfulness and justice.
Whenever we see a particular race of people, we'll know right away where they belong because of how they look, the language they speak and other peculiar things that is characteristic of them. This should also be the case with us, a people who belong to God. We should develop in us all the characteristics that will set us apart as a people of God. Amen. Hallelujah!
P S A L M
Psalm 102:16-18. 19-21. 29 and 22-23
R: The Lord will build up Zion again, and appear in all his glory.
“The LORD looked down from his holy height, from heaven he beheld the earth, 20 [21] To hear the groaning of the prisoners, to release those doomed to die.” (R) 28 [29] The children of your servants shall abide, and their posterity shall continue in your presence.
God warns us not to exclude other people especially those who don't belong to the usual company of people that we mingle with. We sometimes tend to make exclusive God's invitation and forget that it is for everybody. We must always be open to all people no matter how different we are with each other. We should always be united in God's love and welcome those people who may be different from us in a lot of ways but maintain the same stand and conviction that should unite us in our faith in God. For united we stand, divided we fall. Amen. Hallelujah!
Luke 9:46-50
...“Master, we saw someone casting out demons in your name and we tried to prevent him because he does not follow in our company.” 50 Jesus said to him, “Do not prevent him, for whoever is not against you is for you.”...
Zechariah 8:1-8
...Thus says the LORD of hosts: Lo, I will rescue my people from the land of the rising sun, and from the land of the setting sun. 8 I will bring them back to dwell within Jerusalem. They shall be my people, and I will be their God, with faithfulness and justice.
Whenever we see a particular race of people, we'll know right away where they belong because of how they look, the language they speak and other peculiar things that is characteristic of them. This should also be the case with us, a people who belong to God. We should develop in us all the characteristics that will set us apart as a people of God. Amen. Hallelujah!
P S A L M
Psalm 102:16-18. 19-21. 29 and 22-23
R: The Lord will build up Zion again, and appear in all his glory.
“The LORD looked down from his holy height, from heaven he beheld the earth, 20 [21] To hear the groaning of the prisoners, to release those doomed to die.” (R) 28 [29] The children of your servants shall abide, and their posterity shall continue in your presence.
God warns us not to exclude other people especially those who don't belong to the usual company of people that we mingle with. We sometimes tend to make exclusive God's invitation and forget that it is for everybody. We must always be open to all people no matter how different we are with each other. We should always be united in God's love and welcome those people who may be different from us in a lot of ways but maintain the same stand and conviction that should unite us in our faith in God. For united we stand, divided we fall. Amen. Hallelujah!
Luke 9:46-50
...“Master, we saw someone casting out demons in your name and we tried to prevent him because he does not follow in our company.” 50 Jesus said to him, “Do not prevent him, for whoever is not against you is for you.”...
Sunday, September 25, 2011
RIGHT THE WRONG
It suddenly hit me that people who resort to gambling can bet their millions for a chance to double their money. They are willing to put at stake whatever they have and even what they do not have to take a shot at the jackpot. Why do we sometimes resort to this? One way or another we are all guilty of taking chances and putting our faith on unsure bets without realizing that we don't have to. If only we will bet and give our all to the one true Jackpot prize that has already been won for us on the Cross then we will all surely win for God is always fair. Amen. Hallelujah!
Ezekiel 18:25-2825
You say, “The LORD’s way is not fair!” Hear now, house of Israel: Is it my way that is unfair, or rather, are not your ways unfair?...27 But if a wicked man, turning from the wickedness he has committed, does what is right and just, he shall preserve his life; 28 since he has turned away from all the sins which he committed, he shall surely live, he shall not die.
No matter how unsure life may be and how unfair it may seem we can always rely on the one true God who was, is and will always be forever. Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalm 25:4-5, 6-7, 8-9R: (6a)
Remember your mercies, O Lord.
4 Your ways, O LORD, make known to me; teach me your paths, 5 guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my savior.
Yesterday all my plans for the day did not materialize. Originally I intended to attend the El Shaddai Anniversary in St. Christopher at noon time and join the San Lorenzo Feast celebration at 5:00 pm. Instead of following the schedule everything was changed and ended up attending the Growth Seminar in St. Elizabeth Ann Seton which caused the delay in my attendance to the San Lorenzo celebration. Today I have something else in mind to do but I guess it will not materialize, too. It looks like the plans I had in mind would not happen as I’d expected. Sometimes the same thing happens with our Christian life. Even if we already know what needs to be done as a follower of Christ we still fall short, have to be reminded always and firmly grasp in our minds the truth about Jesus so that we do not become negligent, easily persuaded to change our loyalties and misled. Amen. Hallelujah!
Philippians 2:1-11
... 3 Do nothing out of selfishness or out of vainglory; rather, humbly regard others as more important than yourselves, 4 each looking out not for his own interests, but [also] everyone for those of others. 5 Have among yourselves the same attitude that is also yours in Christ Jesus, 6 Who, though he was in the form of God, did not regard equality with God something to be grasped. 7 Rather, he emptied himself, taking the form of a slave, coming in human likeness; and found human in appearance, 8 he humbled himself, becoming obedient to death, even death on a cross.
There may be some wrong decisions we made along the way but we can always make right our wrongs and start anew. Bottom line, no matter how imperfect we may be, God knows our shortcomings and will always be patiently waiting for us. All we have to do is take a step towards the right direction, make a U turn and go back to God. Amen. Hallelujah!
Matthew 21:28-32
Jesus said to the chief priests and elders of the people: “What is your opinion? A man had two sons. He came to the first and said, ‘Son, go out and work in the vineyard today.’ 29 He said in reply, ‘I will not,’ but afterwards he changed his mind and went. 30 The man came to the other son and gave the same order. He said in reply, ‘Yes, sir,’ but did not go. 31 Which of the two did his father’s will?” They answered, “The first.” ...
Ezekiel 18:25-2825
You say, “The LORD’s way is not fair!” Hear now, house of Israel: Is it my way that is unfair, or rather, are not your ways unfair?...27 But if a wicked man, turning from the wickedness he has committed, does what is right and just, he shall preserve his life; 28 since he has turned away from all the sins which he committed, he shall surely live, he shall not die.
No matter how unsure life may be and how unfair it may seem we can always rely on the one true God who was, is and will always be forever. Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalm 25:4-5, 6-7, 8-9R: (6a)
Remember your mercies, O Lord.
4 Your ways, O LORD, make known to me; teach me your paths, 5 guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my savior.
Yesterday all my plans for the day did not materialize. Originally I intended to attend the El Shaddai Anniversary in St. Christopher at noon time and join the San Lorenzo Feast celebration at 5:00 pm. Instead of following the schedule everything was changed and ended up attending the Growth Seminar in St. Elizabeth Ann Seton which caused the delay in my attendance to the San Lorenzo celebration. Today I have something else in mind to do but I guess it will not materialize, too. It looks like the plans I had in mind would not happen as I’d expected. Sometimes the same thing happens with our Christian life. Even if we already know what needs to be done as a follower of Christ we still fall short, have to be reminded always and firmly grasp in our minds the truth about Jesus so that we do not become negligent, easily persuaded to change our loyalties and misled. Amen. Hallelujah!
Philippians 2:1-11
... 3 Do nothing out of selfishness or out of vainglory; rather, humbly regard others as more important than yourselves, 4 each looking out not for his own interests, but [also] everyone for those of others. 5 Have among yourselves the same attitude that is also yours in Christ Jesus, 6 Who, though he was in the form of God, did not regard equality with God something to be grasped. 7 Rather, he emptied himself, taking the form of a slave, coming in human likeness; and found human in appearance, 8 he humbled himself, becoming obedient to death, even death on a cross.
There may be some wrong decisions we made along the way but we can always make right our wrongs and start anew. Bottom line, no matter how imperfect we may be, God knows our shortcomings and will always be patiently waiting for us. All we have to do is take a step towards the right direction, make a U turn and go back to God. Amen. Hallelujah!
Matthew 21:28-32
Jesus said to the chief priests and elders of the people: “What is your opinion? A man had two sons. He came to the first and said, ‘Son, go out and work in the vineyard today.’ 29 He said in reply, ‘I will not,’ but afterwards he changed his mind and went. 30 The man came to the other son and gave the same order. He said in reply, ‘Yes, sir,’ but did not go. 31 Which of the two did his father’s will?” They answered, “The first.” ...
Saturday, September 24, 2011
SHIELD
Today's 1st reading reminds me of the game I used to play with my sons when they were still young. During weekends when I'm at home with them we play a lot of games together. Since they are boys and have been watching a lot of those Power Rangers and Ninja Turtles stuff, one of the games was to pretend that we were in a battle field just like those super heroes they see on TV and a monster was going to attack us. I would tell them to come close to me and embrace each other tightly and huddle as close as possible so that we can envelop ourselves into a ball while a shield forms around us to protect us. I would assure them that we are safe once we're inside the shield and used to imagine it just like what the Lord is telling us today as an encircling wall of fire that nothing or no one can go past it to harm us. Amen. Hallelujah!
Zechariah 2:5-9. 14-15a
...But I will be for her an encircling wall of fire, says the LORD, and I will be the glory in her midst.” 14 Sing and rejoice, O daughter Zion! See, I am coming to dwell among you, says the LORD. 15 Many nations shall join themselves to the LORD on that day, and they shall be his people, and he will dwell among you, and you shall know that the LORD of hosts has sent me to you.
It is a consolation to know that we can always count on God’s loving care and protection just as stated in today’s psalm reading. Amen. Hallelujah!
P S A L M
Jeremiah 31:10. 11-12ab. 13
R: The Lord will guard us as a shepherd guards his flock.
10 Hear the word of the LORD, O nations, proclaim it on distant isles, and say: He who scattered Israel, now gathers them together, he guards them as a shepherd his flock. (R) 11 The LORD shall ransom Jacob, he shall redeem him from the hand of his conqueror. 12 Shouting, they shall mount the heights of Zion, they shall come streaming to the LORD’s blessings. (R) 13 Then the virgins shall make merry and dance, and young men and old as well. I will turn their mourning into joy, I will console and gladden them after their sorrows.
Let us not take for granted the things that Jesus is communicating with us everyday of our lives. What He wants for us is to gain knowledge on matters that we do not know and enrich what we already know. Nothing in what Jesus is telling us is difficult to understand nor will He purposely confuse or lead us astray. All of these we can surely have access if we will just pay attention to Him as what today's gospel is telling us. Have you ever experienced in your life when you hesitate to ask and just prefer to keep silent about something that you don't really know about? Sometimes we don't fully understand why things happen the way they do but we can be assured that in spite of our limitations and inadequacies we have a God who oversees everything. As the song goes," He who began a good work will be faithful to complete it in you." All we have to do is always pay attention to what God is telling us to do and obey. Paying attention at all times is a very good advice that anybody can benefit from especially if the person whom we are talking to has a lot of good things to say that we can learn from. In today's gospel, Jesus said to his disciples to pay attention and we all know that no one else can be more worthy of our attention than Jesus. I've had several mishaps in my lifetime because I wasn't paying much attention and realized that we would surely all be better off in our life if will always give our full attention to Jesus. Amen. Hallelujah!
Luke 9:43b-45 43
While they were all amazed at his every deed, he said to his disciples, 44 “Pay attention to what I am telling you. The Son of Man is to be handed over to men.” 45 But they did not understand this saying; its meaning was hidden from them so that they should not understand it, and they were afraid to ask him about this saying.
Zechariah 2:5-9. 14-15a
...But I will be for her an encircling wall of fire, says the LORD, and I will be the glory in her midst.” 14 Sing and rejoice, O daughter Zion! See, I am coming to dwell among you, says the LORD. 15 Many nations shall join themselves to the LORD on that day, and they shall be his people, and he will dwell among you, and you shall know that the LORD of hosts has sent me to you.
It is a consolation to know that we can always count on God’s loving care and protection just as stated in today’s psalm reading. Amen. Hallelujah!
P S A L M
Jeremiah 31:10. 11-12ab. 13
R: The Lord will guard us as a shepherd guards his flock.
10 Hear the word of the LORD, O nations, proclaim it on distant isles, and say: He who scattered Israel, now gathers them together, he guards them as a shepherd his flock. (R) 11 The LORD shall ransom Jacob, he shall redeem him from the hand of his conqueror. 12 Shouting, they shall mount the heights of Zion, they shall come streaming to the LORD’s blessings. (R) 13 Then the virgins shall make merry and dance, and young men and old as well. I will turn their mourning into joy, I will console and gladden them after their sorrows.
Let us not take for granted the things that Jesus is communicating with us everyday of our lives. What He wants for us is to gain knowledge on matters that we do not know and enrich what we already know. Nothing in what Jesus is telling us is difficult to understand nor will He purposely confuse or lead us astray. All of these we can surely have access if we will just pay attention to Him as what today's gospel is telling us. Have you ever experienced in your life when you hesitate to ask and just prefer to keep silent about something that you don't really know about? Sometimes we don't fully understand why things happen the way they do but we can be assured that in spite of our limitations and inadequacies we have a God who oversees everything. As the song goes," He who began a good work will be faithful to complete it in you." All we have to do is always pay attention to what God is telling us to do and obey. Paying attention at all times is a very good advice that anybody can benefit from especially if the person whom we are talking to has a lot of good things to say that we can learn from. In today's gospel, Jesus said to his disciples to pay attention and we all know that no one else can be more worthy of our attention than Jesus. I've had several mishaps in my lifetime because I wasn't paying much attention and realized that we would surely all be better off in our life if will always give our full attention to Jesus. Amen. Hallelujah!
Luke 9:43b-45 43
While they were all amazed at his every deed, he said to his disciples, 44 “Pay attention to what I am telling you. The Son of Man is to be handed over to men.” 45 But they did not understand this saying; its meaning was hidden from them so that they should not understand it, and they were afraid to ask him about this saying.
Friday, September 23, 2011
GOD OF ORDER
There is a time for everything. Our God is a God of order and He places everything according to His perfect scheme and plan. All we have to do is completely trust Him that He will do what He has promised and set to do in accordance to His goodness, mercy, peace and love. As in today's 1st reading He assures us that He is our Creator, the King of the entire universe and the one and only Supreme God who can make all things happen for good. Amen. Hallelujah!
Haggai 2:1-9
For thus says the LORD of hosts: One moment yet, a little while, and I will shake the heavens and the earth, the sea and the dry land. 7 I will shake all the nations, and the treasures of all the nations will come in, and I will fill this house with glory, says the LORD of hosts. 8 Mine is the silver and mine the gold, says the LORD of hosts. 9 Greater will be the future glory of this house than the former, says the LORD of hosts; and in this place I will give you peace, says the LORD of hosts!
I have already developed this habit of running on my way to Church as a form of exercise. I could never forget that day when I suddenly felt like not running at all considering that it was almost time. I just realized that I was spared from a dog bite when I turned to look back, I saw the big black police dog of our neighbor behind me, unleashed and out of their perimeter fence and if I was running I'm sure it could have ran after me and bit me. My heart was racing as I slowly walked away from it while praying fervently that it would not chase or come after me. Praise God! I was able to arrive at the Church safely without a scratch. It is indeed wise to always put our faith and confidence in God alone who secures us at all times even in our unguarded moments and fights all our battles. We should never lose hope in God Almighty. Amen. Hallelujah!
P S A L M Psalm 43:1. 2. 3. 4
R: Hope in God; I will praise him, my savior and my God.
1 Do me justice, O God, and fight my fight against a faithless people; from the deceitful and impious man rescue me. (R) 2 For you, O God, are my strength...
There are times when our judgment gets clouded with the trials and difficulties we encounter in life. We always expect things to happen the way we expected and planned it to happen. We sometimes overlook things because we are so preoccupied with other things. There are times when I almost fell into the trap of irritability and anger whenever the communication lines are choppy to the point that I was not able to hear the voices of my family while we were chatting in the Yahoo messenger. Instead of succumbing to it, I just thank God that I am still able to communicate with them daily in whatever means possible. There was a time when I thought that the internet was not working properly and tried to remain calm. It was all worth it, because I was able to practice patience before I knew that there was really nothing wrong with the internet, I just forgot to unplug the earphones which was why I wasn't able to hear them. These experiences, no matter how little, insignificant or not noteworthy they are, we can still learn some lessons from them which can make us better every little step of the way. Just like Peter in today's gospel, his constant following, closeness and interaction with Jesus eventually brought him to his present place and standing in our Church. But we all know how this relationship of Peter with Jesus started out and tried several times especially with Peter's denials. Even then we can always hope and aspire that as we go along life and grab or take advantage of opportunities that God sends our way or allows to happen, we can develop a better understanding of who really God is in our life and what He is doing with our life which will eventually turn out for the best. Just as His suffering and death on the cross paved the way for His resurrection and our salvation we should always believe that God has the best reason for everything. Our life is full of choices. We need to make the right choice. We need to make a good judgment with regards to the choices we make. It is not wise to go by the prevailing standard that is being offered by the world. We may find ourselves secured now but not later; happy and contented for the time being but not meant to last; and at peace with the world but is shallow and easily disturbed. The top choice should always be Jesus if we truly wish to be saved. Sometimes when we have solicited the support of the majority or won the people’s approval, we have a tendency to cloud our judgments especially when our egos become inflated with pride. Rather than focus on what is right and proper before the Lord we go by popularity. We should always keep in mind that the saying, “Majority wins” is not always what is right before the Lord. Nor should we be bothered by the opposition of other people if we do not go with the flow. In today’s gospel it is very clearly illustrated that the crowds are greatly misled and only Peter got it right. It doesn't matter what others may say or if some or most people disagree or are not pleased with our decisions what matters most is that we are right and at peace before God. Our conviction and stand on certain things should always be dependent on what Jesus tells us for He is the way, the truth and the life. Amen. Hallelujah!
Luke 9:18-22
...Then he said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” Peter said in reply, “The Messiah of God.” 21 He rebuked them and directed them not to tell this to anyone. 22 He said, “The Son of Man must suffer greatly and be rejected by the elders, the chief priests, and the scribes, and be killed and on the third day be raised.”
Haggai 2:1-9
For thus says the LORD of hosts: One moment yet, a little while, and I will shake the heavens and the earth, the sea and the dry land. 7 I will shake all the nations, and the treasures of all the nations will come in, and I will fill this house with glory, says the LORD of hosts. 8 Mine is the silver and mine the gold, says the LORD of hosts. 9 Greater will be the future glory of this house than the former, says the LORD of hosts; and in this place I will give you peace, says the LORD of hosts!
I have already developed this habit of running on my way to Church as a form of exercise. I could never forget that day when I suddenly felt like not running at all considering that it was almost time. I just realized that I was spared from a dog bite when I turned to look back, I saw the big black police dog of our neighbor behind me, unleashed and out of their perimeter fence and if I was running I'm sure it could have ran after me and bit me. My heart was racing as I slowly walked away from it while praying fervently that it would not chase or come after me. Praise God! I was able to arrive at the Church safely without a scratch. It is indeed wise to always put our faith and confidence in God alone who secures us at all times even in our unguarded moments and fights all our battles. We should never lose hope in God Almighty. Amen. Hallelujah!
P S A L M Psalm 43:1. 2. 3. 4
R: Hope in God; I will praise him, my savior and my God.
1 Do me justice, O God, and fight my fight against a faithless people; from the deceitful and impious man rescue me. (R) 2 For you, O God, are my strength...
There are times when our judgment gets clouded with the trials and difficulties we encounter in life. We always expect things to happen the way we expected and planned it to happen. We sometimes overlook things because we are so preoccupied with other things. There are times when I almost fell into the trap of irritability and anger whenever the communication lines are choppy to the point that I was not able to hear the voices of my family while we were chatting in the Yahoo messenger. Instead of succumbing to it, I just thank God that I am still able to communicate with them daily in whatever means possible. There was a time when I thought that the internet was not working properly and tried to remain calm. It was all worth it, because I was able to practice patience before I knew that there was really nothing wrong with the internet, I just forgot to unplug the earphones which was why I wasn't able to hear them. These experiences, no matter how little, insignificant or not noteworthy they are, we can still learn some lessons from them which can make us better every little step of the way. Just like Peter in today's gospel, his constant following, closeness and interaction with Jesus eventually brought him to his present place and standing in our Church. But we all know how this relationship of Peter with Jesus started out and tried several times especially with Peter's denials. Even then we can always hope and aspire that as we go along life and grab or take advantage of opportunities that God sends our way or allows to happen, we can develop a better understanding of who really God is in our life and what He is doing with our life which will eventually turn out for the best. Just as His suffering and death on the cross paved the way for His resurrection and our salvation we should always believe that God has the best reason for everything. Our life is full of choices. We need to make the right choice. We need to make a good judgment with regards to the choices we make. It is not wise to go by the prevailing standard that is being offered by the world. We may find ourselves secured now but not later; happy and contented for the time being but not meant to last; and at peace with the world but is shallow and easily disturbed. The top choice should always be Jesus if we truly wish to be saved. Sometimes when we have solicited the support of the majority or won the people’s approval, we have a tendency to cloud our judgments especially when our egos become inflated with pride. Rather than focus on what is right and proper before the Lord we go by popularity. We should always keep in mind that the saying, “Majority wins” is not always what is right before the Lord. Nor should we be bothered by the opposition of other people if we do not go with the flow. In today’s gospel it is very clearly illustrated that the crowds are greatly misled and only Peter got it right. It doesn't matter what others may say or if some or most people disagree or are not pleased with our decisions what matters most is that we are right and at peace before God. Our conviction and stand on certain things should always be dependent on what Jesus tells us for He is the way, the truth and the life. Amen. Hallelujah!
Luke 9:18-22
...Then he said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” Peter said in reply, “The Messiah of God.” 21 He rebuked them and directed them not to tell this to anyone. 22 He said, “The Son of Man must suffer greatly and be rejected by the elders, the chief priests, and the scribes, and be killed and on the third day be raised.”
Thursday, September 22, 2011
BAG WITH HOLES
I just found out today that one of the common idiomatic expressions that I've come to know is also biblical. In the Philippines we used to say this if we are unable to make ends meet. It goes like this, "We earn wages but earned them for a bag with holes in it." I used to hear people complain especially nowadays about how hard is it to earn a living. Everything seems to be not enough at all. It's almost like no matter what we do all our wages go down the drain. It's interesting to find out that Haggai the prophet has an antidote to this bag with holes in it which I used to always say, before I even found out that it's in the Book of Haggai. Today's 1st reading encourages us to put right before the eyes of God, all the things in our life and not to neglect our duties and responsibilities in the building up of the Church of God.
Haggai 1:1-8
... Is it time for you to dwell in your own paneled houses, while this house lies in ruins? 5 Now thus says the LORD of hosts: Consider your ways! 6 You have sown much, but have brought in little; you have eaten, but have not been satisfied; you have drunk, but have not been exhilarated; have clothed yourselves, but not been warmed; and he who earned wages earned them for a bag with holes in it. 7 Thus says the LORD of hosts: Consider your ways! 8 Go up into the hill country; bring timber, and build the house that I may take pleasure in it and receive my glory, says the LORD.
The Church of God being spoken of here did not pertain to just the physical structure but also the Spiritual Church of God which is our souls dwelling in the physical temple of God which is our bodies. It is important that we always ponder in our hearts the significance of the words of God in relation to our life. I have seen people who are exercise and health buffs and really take care of their bodies well. Just by looking at them we can already say that they work hard to develop a muscular and strong body. They were able to get good results because they have committed themselves to a strict diet and exercise regimen. In the same way, we should work hard and stick to a regimen that will maintain our souls in perfect shape. Amen. Hallelujah!
P S A L M
Psalm 149:1b-2. 3-4. 5-6a and 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. (R) 3 Let them praise his name in the festive dance, let them sing praise to him with timbrel and harp. 4 For the LORD loves his people, and he adorns the lowly with victory. (R) 5 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.
We can say all the nice things about God and believe everything about Him and think that we are the better Christians but if we remain as the spectators of our faith rather than doers then we are no different from Herod. He also came to a point when he questioned and searched for answers but he never crossed that line and did not move forward. We should be bold enough to cross that dividing line not just once but throughout our lifetime. It's like we should always pray to God as in this song, "give us faith for one step more" and another until we reach to the point of being the best Christian. If we continue to let our chances pass us by and always miss out on all the opportunities that God is always sending our way to develop a deep and personal relationship with Him then we'll all end up greatly perplexed and no matter how hard we try to keep on seeing Him, we'll never find Him because our minds can only process what it is trained to do which is think. If our thinking has become defective then no amount of thinking can make us come up with the right answers. The time to act is now before it's too late when our minds has become so influenced by the perverse thoughts of this present generation, or worse when our brain has deteriorated and no longer functioning as effectively as it should be. Just like Herod in today's gospel he heard a lot of things from all over but can't decide and discern the truth. It is so frustrating when we are confused and undecided because we are unsure of what the truth is when it is plain simple that Jesus is the Way, the Truth and the Light. We don't want to end up like Herod, perplexed, we would rather be sure and confident that we have a God who will never forsake nor abandon the moment we decide for Him. Amen. Hallelujah!
Luke 9:7-9 7
Herod the tetrarch heard about all that was happening, and he was greatly perplexed because some were saying, “John has been raised from the dead”; 8 others were saying, “Elijah has appeared”; still others, “One of the ancient prophets has arisen.” 9 But Herod said, “John I beheaded. Who then is this about whom I hear such things?” And he kept trying to see him.
Haggai 1:1-8
... Is it time for you to dwell in your own paneled houses, while this house lies in ruins? 5 Now thus says the LORD of hosts: Consider your ways! 6 You have sown much, but have brought in little; you have eaten, but have not been satisfied; you have drunk, but have not been exhilarated; have clothed yourselves, but not been warmed; and he who earned wages earned them for a bag with holes in it. 7 Thus says the LORD of hosts: Consider your ways! 8 Go up into the hill country; bring timber, and build the house that I may take pleasure in it and receive my glory, says the LORD.
The Church of God being spoken of here did not pertain to just the physical structure but also the Spiritual Church of God which is our souls dwelling in the physical temple of God which is our bodies. It is important that we always ponder in our hearts the significance of the words of God in relation to our life. I have seen people who are exercise and health buffs and really take care of their bodies well. Just by looking at them we can already say that they work hard to develop a muscular and strong body. They were able to get good results because they have committed themselves to a strict diet and exercise regimen. In the same way, we should work hard and stick to a regimen that will maintain our souls in perfect shape. Amen. Hallelujah!
P S A L M
Psalm 149:1b-2. 3-4. 5-6a and 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. (R) 3 Let them praise his name in the festive dance, let them sing praise to him with timbrel and harp. 4 For the LORD loves his people, and he adorns the lowly with victory. (R) 5 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.
We can say all the nice things about God and believe everything about Him and think that we are the better Christians but if we remain as the spectators of our faith rather than doers then we are no different from Herod. He also came to a point when he questioned and searched for answers but he never crossed that line and did not move forward. We should be bold enough to cross that dividing line not just once but throughout our lifetime. It's like we should always pray to God as in this song, "give us faith for one step more" and another until we reach to the point of being the best Christian. If we continue to let our chances pass us by and always miss out on all the opportunities that God is always sending our way to develop a deep and personal relationship with Him then we'll all end up greatly perplexed and no matter how hard we try to keep on seeing Him, we'll never find Him because our minds can only process what it is trained to do which is think. If our thinking has become defective then no amount of thinking can make us come up with the right answers. The time to act is now before it's too late when our minds has become so influenced by the perverse thoughts of this present generation, or worse when our brain has deteriorated and no longer functioning as effectively as it should be. Just like Herod in today's gospel he heard a lot of things from all over but can't decide and discern the truth. It is so frustrating when we are confused and undecided because we are unsure of what the truth is when it is plain simple that Jesus is the Way, the Truth and the Light. We don't want to end up like Herod, perplexed, we would rather be sure and confident that we have a God who will never forsake nor abandon the moment we decide for Him. Amen. Hallelujah!
Luke 9:7-9 7
Herod the tetrarch heard about all that was happening, and he was greatly perplexed because some were saying, “John has been raised from the dead”; 8 others were saying, “Elijah has appeared”; still others, “One of the ancient prophets has arisen.” 9 But Herod said, “John I beheaded. Who then is this about whom I hear such things?” And he kept trying to see him.
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
THE CALL
These past few days I've been meaning to share about our Blessed Mother Mary since she was always impressed to me in the several occasions whenever I wrote reflections that is related to sorrow and anguish. Mama Mary just celebrated her Feast of the Our Lady of Sorrows (Sept. 15) and was sharing that we have a mother in Mary who understands every single sorrow and anguish we are going through. There is nothing that she wouldn’t understand because she experienced the killing of her son. Mary accepted to become Mother of Jesus whom only a woman full of grace is highly honored and privileged to be called. When she responded "Yes" and obediently accepted the plan of God in her life she faithfully submitted to God's will like a handmaid to her master. She did not only accept the honor and privilege that goes with it but also the 7 sorrows of Mary which pierced her heart. She left us an example of how we should ponder in our hearts, the word of God that is being conveyed to us through our daily lives. We are God's children and He is calling us in the same way Paul in today's 1st reading is calling the Ephesians. This call is not exclusive and should therefore be taken by everybody as his or hers too. We tend to overlook, set aside and neglect this important call that we all have to respond and take action. If we look at the way most people of this world live then we can say that we are far from following this call rather we are heading towards a different path. We ought to stop living like we've forgotten and abandoned the purpose for which God created us and make a decision to heed God's call who is over all and through all and in all. Amen. Hallelujah!
Ephesians 4:1-7. 11-13
1 Brothers and sisters: I, then, a prisoner for the Lord, urge you to live in a manner worthy of the call you have received, 2 with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another through love, 3 striving to preserve the unity of the spirit through the bond of peace: 4 one body and one Spirit, as you were also called to the one hope of your call; 5 one Lord, one faith, one baptism; 6 one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all...
There is no denying to the greatness of God which is displayed day in and day out. God's power and dominion is declared throughout the world. The wonders of all the things in this world which extends throughout the universe declare the glory of God. Who is greater than He? No one but God alone can make all these wonderful signs and miracles that are before us day and night. Let us not continue to be deaf, blind and mute to this message that goes out through all the earth. Amen. Hallelujah!
P S A L M
Psalm 19:2-3. 4-5
R: Their message goes out through all the earth.
1 [2] The heavens declare the glory of God, and the firmament proclaims his handiwork. 2 [3] Day pours out the word to day, and night to night imparts knowledge. (R) 3 [4] Not a word nor a discourse whose voice is not heard; 4 [5] through all the earth their voice resounds, and to the ends of the world, their message.
Jesus has the biggest and most compassionate heart for sinners especially those who choose to respond to His call and follow Him. Despite the stigma attached to tax collectors and sinners during His time, He did not hesitate to call them. I was just sharing about the call of Mary to be the Mother of God because she is full of grace and without a stain of sin and Jesus also wants us to know that the call is for everybody. We are all being called to live a life with Him no matter what our situations are. Whatever we may be going through right now, a problem, difficulty or sin that is preventing us from responding to His call, we have to always believe that God can overcome all of these if we are willing to give Him the room to act in our lives. Once we give God the go signal, He can accomplish almost anything. If we really believe this then it doesn't matter if we may be experiencing already a life of comfort and ease, our acceptance and consent to shifting to the unknown will only serve to emphasize the extraordinary nature of both our unwavering faith and the grace of God. The grace of God is worth celebrating as it can bring about wonders that will stretch the ability of our imagination. And we can not deny the fact that we’ve been privileged to watch this happen not only in the lives of other people on a number of different occasions as in the life of our forefathers like Abraham, Jacob, Moses, the life of the Blessed Mother but also to us. For He doesn't only call the qualified but He also qualifies the called. No one is hopeless and desperate for God. Nothing is beyond His healing love and mercy. We must not be impatient or judgmental of our brothers and sisters who have strayed from the Lord. We must keep in mind that He has a special eye for the sick and the sinners. We have all sinned and fallen ill because of the disease that sin brings to us. No matter how big and grievous our sins are, God is always able to heal us. This song which tells us, "He was pierced for our transgressions, crushed for our iniquities and the punishment that brought us peace was upon Him for by His wounds we are healed." should inspire us to reach out to Him more than anyone or anything else. Amen. Hallelujah!
Matthew 9:9-13
9 As Jesus passed by, he saw a man named Matthew sitting at the customs post. He said to him, “Follow me.” And he got up and followed him. 10 While he was at table in his house, many tax collectors and sinners came and sat with Jesus and his disciples. 11 The Pharisees saw this and said to his disciples, “Why does your teacher eat with tax collectors and sinners?” 12 He heard this and said, “Those who are well do not need a physician, but the sick do. 13 Go and learn the meaning of the words, ‘I desire mercy, not sacrifice.’ I did not come to call the righteous but sinners.”
Ephesians 4:1-7. 11-13
1 Brothers and sisters: I, then, a prisoner for the Lord, urge you to live in a manner worthy of the call you have received, 2 with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another through love, 3 striving to preserve the unity of the spirit through the bond of peace: 4 one body and one Spirit, as you were also called to the one hope of your call; 5 one Lord, one faith, one baptism; 6 one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all...
There is no denying to the greatness of God which is displayed day in and day out. God's power and dominion is declared throughout the world. The wonders of all the things in this world which extends throughout the universe declare the glory of God. Who is greater than He? No one but God alone can make all these wonderful signs and miracles that are before us day and night. Let us not continue to be deaf, blind and mute to this message that goes out through all the earth. Amen. Hallelujah!
P S A L M
Psalm 19:2-3. 4-5
R: Their message goes out through all the earth.
1 [2] The heavens declare the glory of God, and the firmament proclaims his handiwork. 2 [3] Day pours out the word to day, and night to night imparts knowledge. (R) 3 [4] Not a word nor a discourse whose voice is not heard; 4 [5] through all the earth their voice resounds, and to the ends of the world, their message.
Jesus has the biggest and most compassionate heart for sinners especially those who choose to respond to His call and follow Him. Despite the stigma attached to tax collectors and sinners during His time, He did not hesitate to call them. I was just sharing about the call of Mary to be the Mother of God because she is full of grace and without a stain of sin and Jesus also wants us to know that the call is for everybody. We are all being called to live a life with Him no matter what our situations are. Whatever we may be going through right now, a problem, difficulty or sin that is preventing us from responding to His call, we have to always believe that God can overcome all of these if we are willing to give Him the room to act in our lives. Once we give God the go signal, He can accomplish almost anything. If we really believe this then it doesn't matter if we may be experiencing already a life of comfort and ease, our acceptance and consent to shifting to the unknown will only serve to emphasize the extraordinary nature of both our unwavering faith and the grace of God. The grace of God is worth celebrating as it can bring about wonders that will stretch the ability of our imagination. And we can not deny the fact that we’ve been privileged to watch this happen not only in the lives of other people on a number of different occasions as in the life of our forefathers like Abraham, Jacob, Moses, the life of the Blessed Mother but also to us. For He doesn't only call the qualified but He also qualifies the called. No one is hopeless and desperate for God. Nothing is beyond His healing love and mercy. We must not be impatient or judgmental of our brothers and sisters who have strayed from the Lord. We must keep in mind that He has a special eye for the sick and the sinners. We have all sinned and fallen ill because of the disease that sin brings to us. No matter how big and grievous our sins are, God is always able to heal us. This song which tells us, "He was pierced for our transgressions, crushed for our iniquities and the punishment that brought us peace was upon Him for by His wounds we are healed." should inspire us to reach out to Him more than anyone or anything else. Amen. Hallelujah!
Matthew 9:9-13
9 As Jesus passed by, he saw a man named Matthew sitting at the customs post. He said to him, “Follow me.” And he got up and followed him. 10 While he was at table in his house, many tax collectors and sinners came and sat with Jesus and his disciples. 11 The Pharisees saw this and said to his disciples, “Why does your teacher eat with tax collectors and sinners?” 12 He heard this and said, “Those who are well do not need a physician, but the sick do. 13 Go and learn the meaning of the words, ‘I desire mercy, not sacrifice.’ I did not come to call the righteous but sinners.”
Tuesday, September 20, 2011
BE ACTIVE
This week is kind of hectic for the Filipinos in St. Martha's Church and I guess for the rest of the Churches with Filipino parishioners since this Sept. 28 is the upcoming feast of St. Lorenzo Ruiz. A novena prayer has already started in St. Martha in honor of him and a feast and special celebration is scheduled this Saturday (Sept. 24). People were asked to take part and were assigned various tasks in setting up the Church. Some were assigned to decorate the Church, others are going to be a part of the stage play, while others were in charge of the food to be served after the mass. St. Lorenzo Ruiz is the 1st Filipino Saint and there are lots of Filipinos here in West Covina so it is indeed going to be a day of celebration with so much joy. Amen. Hallelujah!
Ezra 6:7-8. 12b. 14-20 ...The Israelites — priests, Levites, and the other returned exiles — celebrated the dedication of this house of God with joy...
I have noticed that in any part of the world where Filipinos are the most likely places that you always see them are in churches. Most Filipinos are always visible and active in such activities for the Lord. We are basically a joyful people that's why our devotion to the Lord is clearly seen in occasions like these where there is rejoicing in the house of the Lord. Amen. Hallelujah!
P S A L M Psalm 122:1-2. 3-4ab. 4cd-5
R: Let us go rejoicing to the house of the Lord. 1 I rejoiced because they said to me, “We will go up to the house of the LORD.” 2 And now we have set foot within your gates, O Jerusalem. (R) 3 Jerusalem, built as a city with compact unity. 4 To it the tribes go up, the tribes of the LORD. (R) According to the decree for Israel, to give thanks to the name of the LORD. 5 In it are set up judgment seats, seats for the house of David. (R)
Today's gospel speaks of a big gathering or crowd that prevents the people closest to Jesus to come near Him. Whenever there are big gatherings in the Church you can be sure that Filipinos are active in taking part in these activities. I am sure God appreciates our efforts to always become part of feasts and celebrations in His honor. Just recently we had our Light of Jesus Family (LOJF) Retreat which was held in Big Bear. It was my first time to participate in this activity of LOJF. I’ve learned and experienced a lot of wonderful things from this retreat there is no doubt. It is really important that we are actively participating in these activities because we not only become physically present and close to God but really live, act, and put into practice His word with all our minds, hearts and souls. In this way we can be instruments of bringing more people to God as we truly become like the mother, brothers and sisters of Jesus as spoken in the gospel. Amen. Hallelujah!
Luke 8:19-21 19 The mother of Jesus and his brothers came to him but were unable to join him because of the crowd. 20 He was told, “Your mother and your brothers are standing outside and they wish to see you.” 21 He said to them in reply, “My mother and my brothers are those who hear the word of God and act on it.”
Ezra 6:7-8. 12b. 14-20 ...The Israelites — priests, Levites, and the other returned exiles — celebrated the dedication of this house of God with joy...
I have noticed that in any part of the world where Filipinos are the most likely places that you always see them are in churches. Most Filipinos are always visible and active in such activities for the Lord. We are basically a joyful people that's why our devotion to the Lord is clearly seen in occasions like these where there is rejoicing in the house of the Lord. Amen. Hallelujah!
P S A L M Psalm 122:1-2. 3-4ab. 4cd-5
R: Let us go rejoicing to the house of the Lord. 1 I rejoiced because they said to me, “We will go up to the house of the LORD.” 2 And now we have set foot within your gates, O Jerusalem. (R) 3 Jerusalem, built as a city with compact unity. 4 To it the tribes go up, the tribes of the LORD. (R) According to the decree for Israel, to give thanks to the name of the LORD. 5 In it are set up judgment seats, seats for the house of David. (R)
Today's gospel speaks of a big gathering or crowd that prevents the people closest to Jesus to come near Him. Whenever there are big gatherings in the Church you can be sure that Filipinos are active in taking part in these activities. I am sure God appreciates our efforts to always become part of feasts and celebrations in His honor. Just recently we had our Light of Jesus Family (LOJF) Retreat which was held in Big Bear. It was my first time to participate in this activity of LOJF. I’ve learned and experienced a lot of wonderful things from this retreat there is no doubt. It is really important that we are actively participating in these activities because we not only become physically present and close to God but really live, act, and put into practice His word with all our minds, hearts and souls. In this way we can be instruments of bringing more people to God as we truly become like the mother, brothers and sisters of Jesus as spoken in the gospel. Amen. Hallelujah!
Luke 8:19-21 19 The mother of Jesus and his brothers came to him but were unable to join him because of the crowd. 20 He was told, “Your mother and your brothers are standing outside and they wish to see you.” 21 He said to them in reply, “My mother and my brothers are those who hear the word of God and act on it.”
Monday, September 19, 2011
GOD’S SIDE
It is through the trials and hardships in life that we manifest God's power and victory in our lives. According to St. Rose of Lima, "Without the burden of afflictions it is impossible to reach the height of grace. The gifts of grace increase as the struggles increase." We may want to reflect on the following questions, What is the relationship between afflictions and the height of grace? Do I make use of such opportunities or do I rail against them? In the battles that we face in our lives, we inevitably get hurt in the process but we can be assured of winning the fight if we are on God’s side. Today’s 1st reading has a caption in Companion with the following statements. “ The Prophet Jeremiah had prophesied that the children of Israel would be in captivity in Babylon for 70 years and after this time would return to their homeland. This text from Ezra tells us of the proclamation of King Cyrus of Persia in allowing the exiles to return to their land. Just as in the exodus from Egypt the Israelites were assisted by their captors, so here the king commands the people to assist them with gold and silver. In this story we can see how God’s plans are wonderfully fulfilled and how He goes before His people.” The Israelites have been in captivity for quite a long time already. Despite of it all, God is true to His word and promise and fulfilled what has been written. For heaven and earth will fade away but the words of God will remain. Amen. Hallelujah!
Ezra 1:1-6
1 In the first year of Cyrus, king of Persia, in order to fulfill the word of the LORD spoken by Jeremiah, the LORD inspired King Cyrus of Persia to issue this proclamation throughout his kingdom, both by word of mouth and in writing: 2 “Thus says Cyrus, king of Persia: ‘All the kingdoms of the earth the LORD, the God of heaven, has given to me, and he has also charged me to build him a house in Jerusalem, which is in Judah. 3 Therefore, whoever among you belongs to any part of his people, let him go up, and may his God be with him!...
Do you agree with me if I say that there is some truth to the famous saying, “Easy come, easy go.” If there are some things that we've been praying for and it seems like nothing is happening we should never give up. Every good work should be carefully planned and carried out to completion. Though the process may be long and hard we can always count on God to stick with us through and through and make it happen. If we are always manifesting in our lives the values of the passion and death of Jesus then we are assured of the resurrection. Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalm 126: 1bc- 2ab, 2cd-3 , 4-5 , 6R: Those who sow in tears shall reap rejoicing.
Then they said among the nations, “The LORD has done great things for them.” 3 The LORD has done great things for us; we are glad indeed.
When we do covert things and continue to pretend that everything we do is good and try to camouflage the real thing then we are just putting ourselves deeper into the pit of danger. Do we really think that we can get away from all these things without having to face its consequences? We've got to take courage and face head on the things that we have done and take responsibility for it. We may think that in doing so we are heading to our own grave. Let us not be deceived further by the threats that this world we live in present to us rather hold on to the words and promise of God. There is no need to be afraid for God is on our side. Amen. Hallelujah!
Luke 8:16-18
16 Jesus said to the crowd: “No one who lights a lamp conceals it with a vessel or sets it under a bed; rather, he places it on a lampstand so that those who enter may see the light. 17 For there is nothing hidden that will not become visible, and nothing secret that will not be known and come to light. 18 Take care, then, how you hear. To anyone who has, more will be given, and from the one who has not, even what he seems to have will be taken away.”
Ezra 1:1-6
1 In the first year of Cyrus, king of Persia, in order to fulfill the word of the LORD spoken by Jeremiah, the LORD inspired King Cyrus of Persia to issue this proclamation throughout his kingdom, both by word of mouth and in writing: 2 “Thus says Cyrus, king of Persia: ‘All the kingdoms of the earth the LORD, the God of heaven, has given to me, and he has also charged me to build him a house in Jerusalem, which is in Judah. 3 Therefore, whoever among you belongs to any part of his people, let him go up, and may his God be with him!...
Do you agree with me if I say that there is some truth to the famous saying, “Easy come, easy go.” If there are some things that we've been praying for and it seems like nothing is happening we should never give up. Every good work should be carefully planned and carried out to completion. Though the process may be long and hard we can always count on God to stick with us through and through and make it happen. If we are always manifesting in our lives the values of the passion and death of Jesus then we are assured of the resurrection. Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalm 126: 1bc- 2ab, 2cd-3 , 4-5 , 6R: Those who sow in tears shall reap rejoicing.
Then they said among the nations, “The LORD has done great things for them.” 3 The LORD has done great things for us; we are glad indeed.
When we do covert things and continue to pretend that everything we do is good and try to camouflage the real thing then we are just putting ourselves deeper into the pit of danger. Do we really think that we can get away from all these things without having to face its consequences? We've got to take courage and face head on the things that we have done and take responsibility for it. We may think that in doing so we are heading to our own grave. Let us not be deceived further by the threats that this world we live in present to us rather hold on to the words and promise of God. There is no need to be afraid for God is on our side. Amen. Hallelujah!
Luke 8:16-18
16 Jesus said to the crowd: “No one who lights a lamp conceals it with a vessel or sets it under a bed; rather, he places it on a lampstand so that those who enter may see the light. 17 For there is nothing hidden that will not become visible, and nothing secret that will not be known and come to light. 18 Take care, then, how you hear. To anyone who has, more will be given, and from the one who has not, even what he seems to have will be taken away.”
Sunday, September 18, 2011
THE LAST WILL BE FIRST
I had been wondering where in the bible I can find today's 1st reading and it took some time before I finally found it. I am not very good at remembering the exact bible chapter and verse of some memory verses but I can recall what is being said in it. I can still remember from a long time ago already when a speaker gave an inspiring talk and quoted this bible verse. From then on I’ve never forgotten it and always held on to it. This bible passage has always given me confidence deep in my heart that we have an awesome God whom we can never underestimate. He can make all things bright and beautiful for us. Amen. Hallelujah!
Isaiah 55:6-9
...8 For my thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways my ways, says the LORD. 9 As high as the heavens are above the earth, so high are my ways above your ways and my thoughts above your thoughts.
We are blessed! What more can we ask for? All we have to do is always be reminded of this truth and believe. Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalm 145:2-3, 8-9, 17-18
R: (18a) The Lord is near to all who call upon him.
8 The LORD is gracious and merciful, slow to anger and of great kindness. 9 The LORD is good to all and compassionate toward all his works.
We have just finished our Light of Jesus Retreat. We are all grateful for the hard work and dedication of the people who made this possible. It is never easy to organize for such activities but just like Paul in today’s 2nd reading, these people have found the true joy in serving the Lord Jesus Christ. Amen. Hallelujah!
Philippians 1:20c-24, 27a
...25 And this I know with confidence, that I shall remain and continue in the service of all of you for your progress and joy in the faith, 26 so that your boasting in Christ Jesus may abound on account of me when I come to you again...
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.”
Isaiah 55:6-9
...8 For my thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways my ways, says the LORD. 9 As high as the heavens are above the earth, so high are my ways above your ways and my thoughts above your thoughts.
We are blessed! What more can we ask for? All we have to do is always be reminded of this truth and believe. Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalm 145:2-3, 8-9, 17-18
R: (18a) The Lord is near to all who call upon him.
8 The LORD is gracious and merciful, slow to anger and of great kindness. 9 The LORD is good to all and compassionate toward all his works.
We have just finished our Light of Jesus Retreat. We are all grateful for the hard work and dedication of the people who made this possible. It is never easy to organize for such activities but just like Paul in today’s 2nd reading, these people have found the true joy in serving the Lord Jesus Christ. Amen. Hallelujah!
Philippians 1:20c-24, 27a
...25 And this I know with confidence, that I shall remain and continue in the service of all of you for your progress and joy in the faith, 26 so that your boasting in Christ Jesus may abound on account of me when I come to you again...
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.”
Saturday, September 17, 2011
IN OR OUT OF SEASON
Today's 1st reading reminded me of a very special person in my life who had been instrumental in the building up and growth of my faith during the first year of my Catholic Charismatic Renewal. Her name is Mrs. Teofista Tan Tena or Sis Pat, she is my boss in the very first regular job I had. We worked for more than a year and continued to keep in touch with her for years even after I transferred to another company. She had always been very enthusiastic in sharing to me a lot of things about the Catholic faith and was reminded me of her sharing about what happen to our souls after death. She said that the moment we breathe our last our souls will automatically and immediately return to God our Creator and the source of the breath of life. She said that during that moment when our souls hurry back to God, we will be confronted by this blinding & shining brightness of God's light that nothing can be hidden and everything in ourselves is exposed. That is when we'll see the impurities of our souls stained by our unconfessed and unrepented sins. Although it may sound a bit farfetched or difficult to prove today's first reading somehow gave me an inkling of what it might be like. Amen. Hallelujah!
1 Timothy 6:13-16
I charge (you) before God, who gives life to all things, and before Christ Jesus, who gave testimony under Pontius Pilate for the noble confession, to keep the commandment without stain or reproach until the appearance of our Lord Jesus Christ 15 that the blessed and only ruler will make manifest at the proper time, the King of kings and Lord of lords, 16 who alone has immortality, who dwells in unapproachable light, and whom no human being has seen or can see...
It is such a waste that we don't always realize God's presence among and in us. When there is nothing more rewarding than to always be aware of God's presence. Amen. Hallelujah!
P S A L M
Psalm 100:1b-2. 3. 4. 5
R: Come with joy into the presence of the Lord.
1 Sing joyfully to the LORD, all you lands; 2 serve the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful song. (R) 3 Know that the LORD is God; he made us, his we are; his people, the flock he tends.
What divine coincidence it is that as I am reminded of Sis Pat, the gospel reading for today speaks of the parable of the seed and the sower. We all know that God speaks to us in many unique and different ways through circumstances and people we meet everyday. These should inspire us always, though it may have been a long time ago, our experiences with people like Sis Pat whom we can consider an instrument of God in placing the seed in our hearts during that planting season should always remain there, continue to grow and nurture whether in or out of season as in seed planted in rich soil. Amen. Hallelujah!
1 Timothy 6:13-16
I charge (you) before God, who gives life to all things, and before Christ Jesus, who gave testimony under Pontius Pilate for the noble confession, to keep the commandment without stain or reproach until the appearance of our Lord Jesus Christ 15 that the blessed and only ruler will make manifest at the proper time, the King of kings and Lord of lords, 16 who alone has immortality, who dwells in unapproachable light, and whom no human being has seen or can see...
It is such a waste that we don't always realize God's presence among and in us. When there is nothing more rewarding than to always be aware of God's presence. Amen. Hallelujah!
P S A L M
Psalm 100:1b-2. 3. 4. 5
R: Come with joy into the presence of the Lord.
1 Sing joyfully to the LORD, all you lands; 2 serve the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful song. (R) 3 Know that the LORD is God; he made us, his we are; his people, the flock he tends.
What divine coincidence it is that as I am reminded of Sis Pat, the gospel reading for today speaks of the parable of the seed and the sower. We all know that God speaks to us in many unique and different ways through circumstances and people we meet everyday. These should inspire us always, though it may have been a long time ago, our experiences with people like Sis Pat whom we can consider an instrument of God in placing the seed in our hearts during that planting season should always remain there, continue to grow and nurture whether in or out of season as in seed planted in rich soil. Amen. Hallelujah!
Friday, September 16, 2011
MONEY
We should love God with all our mind, heart and soul. We know that it would be well for us if we will do this above anything. We are aware of some people who became obsessed with money and forgot that only Jesus can satisfy our longings. We can not deny the fact that we all need money so money in itself is not evil but the love for it is what makes it evil. This happens especially when we become too consumed by the desire for it. We must always put God in everything that we do and strive to always be detached from the things in this world that separates us from God. Amen. Hallelujah!
1 Timothy 6:2c-12
...For the love of money is the root of all evils, and some people in their desire for it have strayed from the faith and have pierced themselves with many pains. 11 But you, man of God, avoid all this. Instead, pursue righteousness, devotion, faith, love, patience, and gentleness. 12 Compete well for the faith. Lay hold of eternal life, to which you were called when you made the noble confession in the presence of many witnesses...
The problem in wealth does not lie on acquiring too much of it but our response to the wealth entrusted to us. If we have been blessed with it then there is a responsibility that goes with it. We should always be driven to action by a holy and godly motivation seeking not to enrich ourselves in evil means and for evil intentions. Amen. Hallelujah!
P S A L M
Psalm 49:6-7. 8-10. 17-18. 19-20
R: Blessed the poor in spirit; the Kingdom of heaven is theirs!
...They trust in their wealth; the abundance of their riches is their boast. (R) 7 [8] Yet in no way can a man redeem himself, or pay his own ransom to God; 8 [9] too high is the price to redeem one’s life; he would never have enough 9 [10] to remain alive always and not see destruction. (R) 16 [17] Fear not when a man grows rich, when the wealth of his house becomes great, 17 [18] for when he dies, he shall take none of it; his wealth shall not follow him down.
If we are entrusted with such wealth then there is a responsibility that goes with and we must use it a manner in the same way that these early Christians in today's gospel did. We should know what God is asking from us to do, discern it well and be able to respond to that call. God does not bring us to somewhere comfortable at all times. God measures our faith by what He sees. He needs to see our faith by the kind of journey we have. Just like Jesus we have to journey from one place to another and not every place promises to be pleasant and enjoyable though, we are assured that each part of the journey is all worth it if we allow Jesus to take our hand, lead us and not just tag along. He would surely bring us to the everlasting joy and perfect happiness that no one has ever known. Amen. Hallelujah!
Luke 8:1-3
1 Jesus journeyed from one town and village to another, preaching and proclaiming the good news of the kingdom of God. Accompanying him were the Twelve 2 and some women who had been cured of evil spirits and infirmities, Mary, called Magdalene, from whom seven demons had gone out, 3 Joanna, the wife of Herod’s steward Chuza, Susanna, and many others who provided for them out of their resources.
1 Timothy 6:2c-12
...For the love of money is the root of all evils, and some people in their desire for it have strayed from the faith and have pierced themselves with many pains. 11 But you, man of God, avoid all this. Instead, pursue righteousness, devotion, faith, love, patience, and gentleness. 12 Compete well for the faith. Lay hold of eternal life, to which you were called when you made the noble confession in the presence of many witnesses...
The problem in wealth does not lie on acquiring too much of it but our response to the wealth entrusted to us. If we have been blessed with it then there is a responsibility that goes with it. We should always be driven to action by a holy and godly motivation seeking not to enrich ourselves in evil means and for evil intentions. Amen. Hallelujah!
P S A L M
Psalm 49:6-7. 8-10. 17-18. 19-20
R: Blessed the poor in spirit; the Kingdom of heaven is theirs!
...They trust in their wealth; the abundance of their riches is their boast. (R) 7 [8] Yet in no way can a man redeem himself, or pay his own ransom to God; 8 [9] too high is the price to redeem one’s life; he would never have enough 9 [10] to remain alive always and not see destruction. (R) 16 [17] Fear not when a man grows rich, when the wealth of his house becomes great, 17 [18] for when he dies, he shall take none of it; his wealth shall not follow him down.
If we are entrusted with such wealth then there is a responsibility that goes with and we must use it a manner in the same way that these early Christians in today's gospel did. We should know what God is asking from us to do, discern it well and be able to respond to that call. God does not bring us to somewhere comfortable at all times. God measures our faith by what He sees. He needs to see our faith by the kind of journey we have. Just like Jesus we have to journey from one place to another and not every place promises to be pleasant and enjoyable though, we are assured that each part of the journey is all worth it if we allow Jesus to take our hand, lead us and not just tag along. He would surely bring us to the everlasting joy and perfect happiness that no one has ever known. Amen. Hallelujah!
Luke 8:1-3
1 Jesus journeyed from one town and village to another, preaching and proclaiming the good news of the kingdom of God. Accompanying him were the Twelve 2 and some women who had been cured of evil spirits and infirmities, Mary, called Magdalene, from whom seven demons had gone out, 3 Joanna, the wife of Herod’s steward Chuza, Susanna, and many others who provided for them out of their resources.
Thursday, September 15, 2011
PIETA
There is a need for us to be careful with our words and action if we truly want to become a living testimony of what Jesus stands for. We can not just take this task for granted if we really want to be saved. Don't get me wrong. We have been saved by Jesus. The gate of heaven has been opened which was once closed when our first parents sinned but through the death and resurrection of Jesus is made accessible for us. We are still engaged in this daily battle for our souls because the enemy would stop at nothing just to deceive and lure us away from the gate of heaven. It should be our prime concern that we develop in ourselves the right speech, conduct, love, faith and purity. We must not neglect these things and should always be diligent in order for us to grow and mature in the faith. We have to keep our faith up and about just like a river that flows otherwise we'll stagnate. Everything in stagnant water eventually ends up dead and there is no sign of life at all. So if we really want to live then we will really take seriously what the 1st reading today is telling us. Amen. Hallelujah!
1 Timothy 4:12-16
Beloved: Let no one have contempt for your youth, but set an example for those who believe, in speech, conduct, love, faith, and purity. 13 Until I arrive, attend to the reading, exhortation, and teaching. 14 Do not neglect the gift you have, which was conferred on you through the prophetic word with the imposition of hands of the presbyterate. 15 Be diligent in these matters, be absorbed in them, so that your progress may be evident to everyone. 16 Attend to yourself and to your teaching; persevere in both tasks, for by doing so you will save both yourself and those who listen to you.
We can always rely on God at all times and be assured that the wisest thing that we can do for ourselves is to follow His precepts which are all truth and equity. There is nothing more we ought to do but live by it. Amen. Hallelujah!
P S A L M
Psalm 111:7-8. 9. 10
R: How great are the works of the Lord!
7 The works of his hands are faithful and just; sure are all his precepts, 8 reliable forever and ever, wrought in truth and equity. (R) 9 He has sent deliverance to his people; he has ratified his covenant forever; holy and awesome is his name. (R) 10 The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom; prudent are all who live by it. His praise endures forever.
It places us in a better position with God when we know that we have the Our Lady of Sorrows, none other than our very own Blessed Mother who will always be with us, offering her cries and tears as she constantly prays for us. She is perfect enough for God to be the mother of His only Son surely she will also be for us, more than perfect as our Mother. The most holy and sacred woman who ever lived here on earth is Mary. We are so blessed to have her as our own mother, for Jesus shared and extended to us this noble and holy privilege. Today we celebrate the Feast of the Our Lady of Sorrows and commemorate the courage and strength of Mary in carrying out the most noble task ever known to man which she has faithfully fulfilled thus it gives us the inspiration to not grow weary in facing further trials that come our way and not despair and lose hope. The passion and death of Jesus on the cross is the ultimate pain and suffering that a human being could endure. It follows that the ultimate sorrow a mother could experience is to see her very own son subjected to such an excruciatingly painful way to die. Mary stood at the foot of the cross as her heart was pierced with so much sorrow seeing her only Son, Jesus crucified. Only a heart full of faith, courage and conviction could withstand such kind of sorrow and pain. Mary maintained reverence in God in that time of great sorrow and remained obedient. Such is the heart of Mary, a mother, immaculate and strong. Our Lady of Sorrows, pray for us. Amen. Hallelujah!
John 19:25-27 (or Luke 7:31-35 or Luke 2:33-35)
25 Standing by the cross of Jesus were his mother and his mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary of Magdala. 26 When Jesus saw his mother and the disciple there whom he loved, he said to his mother, “Woman, behold, your son.” 27 Then he said to the disciple, “Behold, your mother.” And from that hour the disciple took her into his home.
1 Timothy 4:12-16
Beloved: Let no one have contempt for your youth, but set an example for those who believe, in speech, conduct, love, faith, and purity. 13 Until I arrive, attend to the reading, exhortation, and teaching. 14 Do not neglect the gift you have, which was conferred on you through the prophetic word with the imposition of hands of the presbyterate. 15 Be diligent in these matters, be absorbed in them, so that your progress may be evident to everyone. 16 Attend to yourself and to your teaching; persevere in both tasks, for by doing so you will save both yourself and those who listen to you.
We can always rely on God at all times and be assured that the wisest thing that we can do for ourselves is to follow His precepts which are all truth and equity. There is nothing more we ought to do but live by it. Amen. Hallelujah!
P S A L M
Psalm 111:7-8. 9. 10
R: How great are the works of the Lord!
7 The works of his hands are faithful and just; sure are all his precepts, 8 reliable forever and ever, wrought in truth and equity. (R) 9 He has sent deliverance to his people; he has ratified his covenant forever; holy and awesome is his name. (R) 10 The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom; prudent are all who live by it. His praise endures forever.
It places us in a better position with God when we know that we have the Our Lady of Sorrows, none other than our very own Blessed Mother who will always be with us, offering her cries and tears as she constantly prays for us. She is perfect enough for God to be the mother of His only Son surely she will also be for us, more than perfect as our Mother. The most holy and sacred woman who ever lived here on earth is Mary. We are so blessed to have her as our own mother, for Jesus shared and extended to us this noble and holy privilege. Today we celebrate the Feast of the Our Lady of Sorrows and commemorate the courage and strength of Mary in carrying out the most noble task ever known to man which she has faithfully fulfilled thus it gives us the inspiration to not grow weary in facing further trials that come our way and not despair and lose hope. The passion and death of Jesus on the cross is the ultimate pain and suffering that a human being could endure. It follows that the ultimate sorrow a mother could experience is to see her very own son subjected to such an excruciatingly painful way to die. Mary stood at the foot of the cross as her heart was pierced with so much sorrow seeing her only Son, Jesus crucified. Only a heart full of faith, courage and conviction could withstand such kind of sorrow and pain. Mary maintained reverence in God in that time of great sorrow and remained obedient. Such is the heart of Mary, a mother, immaculate and strong. Our Lady of Sorrows, pray for us. Amen. Hallelujah!
John 19:25-27 (or Luke 7:31-35 or Luke 2:33-35)
25 Standing by the cross of Jesus were his mother and his mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary of Magdala. 26 When Jesus saw his mother and the disciple there whom he loved, he said to his mother, “Woman, behold, your son.” 27 Then he said to the disciple, “Behold, your mother.” And from that hour the disciple took her into his home.
Wednesday, September 14, 2011
POWER OF THE CROSS
If we take time to study about the bible and our faith then we will discover things we never knew existed before. We will come to a deep and profound understanding of it which will bring us to greater heights in terms of our knowledge of God. This will lead us to love and service in a very meaningful way. The bible covers a span of more or less, 2000 years. Basing it on the outline of the salvation history or covenant history which goes back to the time of Adam & Eve and Noah and dates way back to 1800 BC during the time of Abraham, Moses (1200), David (means the favored one,1000), Exodus (600) to the birth of our Lord Jesus. We can see from this time line significant events that happened from the time of Creation when God created man who fell into sin and became unfaithful and how God continuously called us back to Him by showing us who He really is throughout the length of time. It is so amazing how events which are more than a thousand years apart can be connected and how God was able to make things fall into perfect place like signs, wonders and miracles made by His mighty hand throughout the length of time. Today's 1st reading is one of the many discoveries I had or should I say made me look at things with a new perspective. It is a foreshadowing of Jesus crucified on the Cross and its power which became a source of healing and salvation for us all. Ever since I have joined a bible study group, Apologetics class and the like I have been discovering the wealth and treasure of our Catholic faith. Thank and praise God for activities like these that continue to shed light on our faith. I have always heard bible teachers say that in order to have a better understanding of the scriptures we have to read the bible starting from the New Testament before proceeding to the Old Testament. It is true that the Old Testament is a foreshadowing of the New Testament which is the full revelation of God's great love for us. Just like in today's 1st reading we can establish a relationship between Jesus Christ dying on the cross up on Mt. Calvary to save us from death due to our sins with the healing brought about by the bronze serpent mounted on a pole. It is good to have a realization of this great love of God for us first and foremost so that when we encounter somehow disturbing and difficult to understand scenarios in the Old Testament we can always try to zero in on the truth that behind all these things that took place is a God who has a love for us greater than any other known in this world. Amen. Hallelujah!
Numbers 21:4b-9
...LORD said to Moses, “Make a saraph and mount it on a pole, and if anyone who has been bitten looks at it, he will recover.” 9 Moses accordingly made a bronze serpent and mounted it on a pole, and whenever anyone who had been bitten by a serpent looked at the bronze serpent, he lived.
Today’s psalm tells us not to forget the works of the Lord. What better way to do that than to keep our eyes focused on the price that God paid for us on the cross and the eternal benefits it has brought upon us. In order to attain this we need to constantly listen to the teachings of the Church. We have to familiarize ourselves to the words of God in scriptures and the mysteries they hold. We have seen and witnessed so much already to even doubt God's goodness. We hope and pray that we will always remember and never forget. Our minds are limited and can not comprehend beyond what can be explained by reason. God gave up His only begotten Son, Jesus and allowed Him to be sacrificed on the cross. This could never be explained by our logical and rational minds especially if we are parents ourselves and have only one child. Who would give up an only child to die a cruel and humiliating death for the sake of another and sinners at that? But God did that and the only reason is His immeasurable and unfathomable love for all of us. Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalm 78:1bc-2, 34-35, 36-37, 38
R: Do not forget the works of the Lord!
1 Hearken, my people, to my teaching; incline your ears to the words of my mouth. 2 I will open my mouth in a parable, I will utter mysteries from of old...
What hold our attention and interest range from a variety of people, places and things we express them by engaging in various ways and means. Some are hooked in business, sports, entertainment, romance, travel, food, fashion, current events, issues with nature, outer space and all other things we can think about that we can consider profitable, enjoyable, fun and worthwhile to do. We had our moments and stages wherein we’ve been there and done that. Coming from this point of view, we eventually realize whether now, soon or later that ultimately we must acknowledge the fact that if there’s one thing that should hold not just our attention and interest but our constant admiration is the truth that is stated in today’s 2nd reading because it has definitely got it all. It is reminding us of the things God has to go through just to show His great love. It sounds impossible when we hear about this kind of love that God is sharing to each one of us. This should give us the confidence and courage to carry on. Jesus is God, King of Heaven and earth and the Master of all creation but took the form of a slave and obeyed to the point of death. If we are to look at ourselves and try to figure out who we really are as compared to God's greatness then we should not even think of boasting anything about ourselves but rather we should always be compelled to follow His example in our own way. Amen. Hallelujah!
Philippians 2:6-116
Brothers and sisters: Christ Jesus, though he was in the form of God, did not regard equality with God something to be grasped. 7 Rather, he emptied himself, taking the form of a slave, coming in human likeness; and found human in appearance, 8 he humbled himself, becoming obedient to death, even death on a cross...
Today's gospel is an evidence of the concrete relationship of the scriptures in the Old Testament with the New Testament. They are interconnected in a very amazing way. If there's one thing that amazes me even more, it is the thousands of years apart in terms of BC (Before the time of Christ) and AD (Anno Domini/During and after Christ) that separates these events and the tremendous power of God that defies the length of time by connecting them and allowing every single thing in the entire history of mankind to fall into its perfect place and pattern. We are just set to discover wonderful and marvelous things that are beyond our imagination if we let God just like Nicodemus in today’s gospel. He was a skeptic before but eventually became a firm believer. It also contains the most famous words of Jesus in the Gospel of John, “For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him might not perish but might have eternal life.” The purpose of the Gospel is stated in Jn. 20:31: “These things have been written so that you may go on believing that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God and that believing you may have life in His name.” Everything comes through God’s grace in the form of the scriptures as it is written from of old and revealed right before our very eyes and within our hearing. Amen. Hallelujah!
John 3:13-17
13 Jesus said to Nicodemus: “No one has gone up to heaven except the one who has come down from heaven, the Son of Man. 14 And just as Moses lifted up the serpent in the desert, so must the Son of Man be lifted up, 15 so that everyone who believes in him may have eternal life.” 16 For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him might not perish but might have eternal life. 17 For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world might be saved through him.
Numbers 21:4b-9
...LORD said to Moses, “Make a saraph and mount it on a pole, and if anyone who has been bitten looks at it, he will recover.” 9 Moses accordingly made a bronze serpent and mounted it on a pole, and whenever anyone who had been bitten by a serpent looked at the bronze serpent, he lived.
Today’s psalm tells us not to forget the works of the Lord. What better way to do that than to keep our eyes focused on the price that God paid for us on the cross and the eternal benefits it has brought upon us. In order to attain this we need to constantly listen to the teachings of the Church. We have to familiarize ourselves to the words of God in scriptures and the mysteries they hold. We have seen and witnessed so much already to even doubt God's goodness. We hope and pray that we will always remember and never forget. Our minds are limited and can not comprehend beyond what can be explained by reason. God gave up His only begotten Son, Jesus and allowed Him to be sacrificed on the cross. This could never be explained by our logical and rational minds especially if we are parents ourselves and have only one child. Who would give up an only child to die a cruel and humiliating death for the sake of another and sinners at that? But God did that and the only reason is His immeasurable and unfathomable love for all of us. Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalm 78:1bc-2, 34-35, 36-37, 38
R: Do not forget the works of the Lord!
1 Hearken, my people, to my teaching; incline your ears to the words of my mouth. 2 I will open my mouth in a parable, I will utter mysteries from of old...
What hold our attention and interest range from a variety of people, places and things we express them by engaging in various ways and means. Some are hooked in business, sports, entertainment, romance, travel, food, fashion, current events, issues with nature, outer space and all other things we can think about that we can consider profitable, enjoyable, fun and worthwhile to do. We had our moments and stages wherein we’ve been there and done that. Coming from this point of view, we eventually realize whether now, soon or later that ultimately we must acknowledge the fact that if there’s one thing that should hold not just our attention and interest but our constant admiration is the truth that is stated in today’s 2nd reading because it has definitely got it all. It is reminding us of the things God has to go through just to show His great love. It sounds impossible when we hear about this kind of love that God is sharing to each one of us. This should give us the confidence and courage to carry on. Jesus is God, King of Heaven and earth and the Master of all creation but took the form of a slave and obeyed to the point of death. If we are to look at ourselves and try to figure out who we really are as compared to God's greatness then we should not even think of boasting anything about ourselves but rather we should always be compelled to follow His example in our own way. Amen. Hallelujah!
Philippians 2:6-116
Brothers and sisters: Christ Jesus, though he was in the form of God, did not regard equality with God something to be grasped. 7 Rather, he emptied himself, taking the form of a slave, coming in human likeness; and found human in appearance, 8 he humbled himself, becoming obedient to death, even death on a cross...
Today's gospel is an evidence of the concrete relationship of the scriptures in the Old Testament with the New Testament. They are interconnected in a very amazing way. If there's one thing that amazes me even more, it is the thousands of years apart in terms of BC (Before the time of Christ) and AD (Anno Domini/During and after Christ) that separates these events and the tremendous power of God that defies the length of time by connecting them and allowing every single thing in the entire history of mankind to fall into its perfect place and pattern. We are just set to discover wonderful and marvelous things that are beyond our imagination if we let God just like Nicodemus in today’s gospel. He was a skeptic before but eventually became a firm believer. It also contains the most famous words of Jesus in the Gospel of John, “For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him might not perish but might have eternal life.” The purpose of the Gospel is stated in Jn. 20:31: “These things have been written so that you may go on believing that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God and that believing you may have life in His name.” Everything comes through God’s grace in the form of the scriptures as it is written from of old and revealed right before our very eyes and within our hearing. Amen. Hallelujah!
John 3:13-17
13 Jesus said to Nicodemus: “No one has gone up to heaven except the one who has come down from heaven, the Son of Man. 14 And just as Moses lifted up the serpent in the desert, so must the Son of Man be lifted up, 15 so that everyone who believes in him may have eternal life.” 16 For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him might not perish but might have eternal life. 17 For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world might be saved through him.
Tuesday, September 13, 2011
NOBLE TASK
The people who are chosen to lead and play an active role in the several activities and ministries that the Church promotes must really be a good follower of Christ keeping in mind the noble task entrusted in their hands. Today’s 1st reading is a clear guideline as to what kind of person is most worthy to serve the Lord. May we all find ourselves subscribing and obediently following what the Church teaches us. Amen. Hallelujah!
1 Timothy 3:1-13
This saying is trustworthy whoever aspires to the office of bishop desires a noble task. Therefore a bishop must be irreproachable, married only once, temperate, self-controlled, decent, hospitable, able to teach, not a drunkard, not aggressive, but gentle, not contentious, not a lover of money. He must manage his own household well, keeping his children under control with perfect dignity; for if a man does not know how to manage his own household, how can he take care of the church of God? He should not be a recent convert so that he may not become conceited and thus incur the devil's punishment. He must also have a good reputation among outsiders, so that he may not fall into disgrace, the devil's trap. Similarly, deacons must be dignified, not deceitful, not addicted to drink, not greedy for sordid gain, holding fast to the mystery of the faith with a clear conscience. Moreover they should be tested first; then, if there is nothing against them let them serve as deacons. Women, similarly, should be dignified, not slanderers, but temperate and faithful in everything. Deacons may be married only once and must manage their children and their households well. Thus those who serve well as deacons gain good standing and much confidence in their faith in Christ Jesus.
We should always strive to do our best in making ourselves a pleasing sacrifice before God. Amen. Hallelujah!
P S A L M
Psalm 101:1b-2ab. 2cd-3ab. 5. 6 (or Psalm 31:2-3b. cd-4. 5-6. 15-16. 20)
R: I will walk with a blameless heart.
1 Of mercy and judgment I will sing; to you, O LORD, I will sing praise. 2 I will persevere in the way of integrity; when will you come to me? (R) I will walk in the integrity of my heart, within my house; 3 I will not set before my eyes any base thing. (R) 5 Whoever slanders his neighbor in secret, him will I destroy. The man of haughty eyes and puffed-up heart I will not endure. (R) 6 My eyes are upon the faithful of the land, that they may dwell with me. He who walks in the way of integrity shall be in my service. (R)
I know that whatever caused some things to happen the way they did, Jesus wants to make it clear that He can bring back to life whatever it is that died whether it be physical, emotional or every aspect of our lives that is subject to death. For nothing is too difficult or impossible for God. In the light of today’s gospel I would also like to share this reflection in Didache which has really touched me entitled, COMING SOON.
The dead man sat up and began to talk, and Jesus gave him back to his mother. – Luke 7:15
Luigi and Mela have been waiting for a child since they got married many years ago. But they wouldn’t get pregnant. They tried everything humanly possible. “Lord, how long do we have to wait? Will this child ever come?” they prayed.
Austin was the blackest of the sheep. Booze? He drank the place dry. Drugs? He didn’t let a chance pass. Women? He had plenty. Monica, his mother, would cry her way to sleep while praying for his conversion. She did this for 39 years.
It’s never over till God says it’s over. It’s time to believe again. God says, “I can still bring that dream to life.” Are you in a major setback? With God you can turn it into a set up for a greater comeback!
Don’t be surprised if you see Luigi and Mela kiss a handsome boy crashing the drums to heavenly music. Their son, Sean, is now in high school! By the way, the agonizing mother Monica has a longer name now: Saint Monica. And her son Austin’s real name is Augustine — Saint Augustine, to be exact, the great theologian and doctor of the church.
Their time has come. And yours is coming! Jon Escoto (faithatworkjon@gmail.com)
REFLECTION:
You have been confronted by obstacles that have been there year after year. Are you ready to give up? Keep the faith, friend. You might be quitting one day too soon.
I want to believe again, Lord. Breathe life into my faith that my time is coming.
Luke 7:11-17
...13 When the Lord saw her, he was moved with pity for her and said to her, “Do not weep.” 14 He stepped forward and touched the coffin; at this the bearers halted, and he said, “Young man, I tell you, arise!” 15 The dead man sat up and began to speak, and Jesus gave him to his mother...
1 Timothy 3:1-13
This saying is trustworthy whoever aspires to the office of bishop desires a noble task. Therefore a bishop must be irreproachable, married only once, temperate, self-controlled, decent, hospitable, able to teach, not a drunkard, not aggressive, but gentle, not contentious, not a lover of money. He must manage his own household well, keeping his children under control with perfect dignity; for if a man does not know how to manage his own household, how can he take care of the church of God? He should not be a recent convert so that he may not become conceited and thus incur the devil's punishment. He must also have a good reputation among outsiders, so that he may not fall into disgrace, the devil's trap. Similarly, deacons must be dignified, not deceitful, not addicted to drink, not greedy for sordid gain, holding fast to the mystery of the faith with a clear conscience. Moreover they should be tested first; then, if there is nothing against them let them serve as deacons. Women, similarly, should be dignified, not slanderers, but temperate and faithful in everything. Deacons may be married only once and must manage their children and their households well. Thus those who serve well as deacons gain good standing and much confidence in their faith in Christ Jesus.
We should always strive to do our best in making ourselves a pleasing sacrifice before God. Amen. Hallelujah!
P S A L M
Psalm 101:1b-2ab. 2cd-3ab. 5. 6 (or Psalm 31:2-3b. cd-4. 5-6. 15-16. 20)
R: I will walk with a blameless heart.
1 Of mercy and judgment I will sing; to you, O LORD, I will sing praise. 2 I will persevere in the way of integrity; when will you come to me? (R) I will walk in the integrity of my heart, within my house; 3 I will not set before my eyes any base thing. (R) 5 Whoever slanders his neighbor in secret, him will I destroy. The man of haughty eyes and puffed-up heart I will not endure. (R) 6 My eyes are upon the faithful of the land, that they may dwell with me. He who walks in the way of integrity shall be in my service. (R)
I know that whatever caused some things to happen the way they did, Jesus wants to make it clear that He can bring back to life whatever it is that died whether it be physical, emotional or every aspect of our lives that is subject to death. For nothing is too difficult or impossible for God. In the light of today’s gospel I would also like to share this reflection in Didache which has really touched me entitled, COMING SOON.
The dead man sat up and began to talk, and Jesus gave him back to his mother. – Luke 7:15
Luigi and Mela have been waiting for a child since they got married many years ago. But they wouldn’t get pregnant. They tried everything humanly possible. “Lord, how long do we have to wait? Will this child ever come?” they prayed.
Austin was the blackest of the sheep. Booze? He drank the place dry. Drugs? He didn’t let a chance pass. Women? He had plenty. Monica, his mother, would cry her way to sleep while praying for his conversion. She did this for 39 years.
It’s never over till God says it’s over. It’s time to believe again. God says, “I can still bring that dream to life.” Are you in a major setback? With God you can turn it into a set up for a greater comeback!
Don’t be surprised if you see Luigi and Mela kiss a handsome boy crashing the drums to heavenly music. Their son, Sean, is now in high school! By the way, the agonizing mother Monica has a longer name now: Saint Monica. And her son Austin’s real name is Augustine — Saint Augustine, to be exact, the great theologian and doctor of the church.
Their time has come. And yours is coming! Jon Escoto (faithatworkjon@gmail.com)
REFLECTION:
You have been confronted by obstacles that have been there year after year. Are you ready to give up? Keep the faith, friend. You might be quitting one day too soon.
I want to believe again, Lord. Breathe life into my faith that my time is coming.
Luke 7:11-17
...13 When the Lord saw her, he was moved with pity for her and said to her, “Do not weep.” 14 He stepped forward and touched the coffin; at this the bearers halted, and he said, “Young man, I tell you, arise!” 15 The dead man sat up and began to speak, and Jesus gave him to his mother...
Monday, September 12, 2011
BACKBONE & MITOCHONDRIA
Paul's knowledge of Christ though he did not see him in the flesh is a revelation not of human origin but divine. If we are to read very carefully what he wrote in this letter to Timothy, we can see that he encourages all believers to be a people of God working to acquire a quiet and tranquil life in all devotion and dignity. This as he said can never be attained through anger and argument thus we all must be careful in conducting ourselves before otherA men and believers as to truly reflect the values of Jesus Christ. Amen. Hallelujah!
1 Timothy 2:1-8
1 Beloved: First of all, then, I ask that supplications, prayers, petitions, and thanksgivings be offered for everyone, 2 for kings and for all in authority, that we may lead a quiet and tranquil life in all devotion and dignity. 3 This is good and pleasing to God our savior, 4 who wills everyone to be saved and to come to knowledge of the truth. 5 For there is one God. There is also one mediator between God and the human race, Christ Jesus, himself human, 6 who gave himself as ransom for all. This was the testimony at the proper time. 7 For this I was appointed preacher and apostle — I am speaking the truth, I am not lying—, teacher of the Gentiles in faith and truth. 8 It is my wish, then, that in every place the men should pray, lifting up holy hands, without anger or argument.
Nothing should stand in the way to doing God's will. It may not be easy but if we have placed it in the center of our hearts then it will just come naturally as it becomes the powerhouse or mitochondria of our beings. Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalms 28:2, 7, 8-9
R: Blessed be the Lord, for he has heard my prayer.
… The LORD is my strength and my shield. In him my heart trusts, and I find help; then my heart exults, and with my song I give him thanks. (R) 8 The LORD is the strength of his people, the saving refuge of his anointed.
As Catholics, we are all familiar of these words from today's gospel because it has become a very important part of the Liturgy of the Eucharist. What's interesting here is that not everybody, I guess is fully aware of the fact that these are the very words of a centurion. The following statements are information that I have found in the internet about them. It says, "The backbone of the Roman army were the centurions. The centurions were legionaries and they were clearly noticed because they wore a special helmet, and a more ornate harness of much better quality. They carried a short vine wood staff as a symbol of rank. They worked their way up the ranks as soldiers, and were promoted for their dedication and courage. They were loyal and courageous and were noticed by the general for their skill and courage in battle, and were made officers." -end- I guess, we can learn a lot from the good example of this centurion in today's gospel. What catches my attention this time is the fact that I have mentioned earlier about the powerhouse or mitochondria, it makes perfect sense that it matches in a way the description for the centurion which is the backbone. Come to think of it, these are important cell and body parts that are vital to our existence. Applying these to our spiritual life there is no doubt that it illustrates to us the need for vital components such as faith for the life of our souls. Amen. Hallelujah!
Luke 7:1-10
...“Lord, do not trouble yourself, for I am not worthy to have you enter under my roof. 7 Therefore, I did not consider myself worthy to come to you; but say the word and let my servant be healed. 8 For I too am a person subject to authority, with soldiers subject to me. And I say to one, ‘Go,’ and he goes; and to another, ‘Come here,’ and he comes; and to my slave, ‘Do this,’ and he does it.” 9 When Jesus heard this he was amazed at him and, turning, said to the crowd following him, “I tell you, not even in Israel have I found such faith.”...
1 Timothy 2:1-8
1 Beloved: First of all, then, I ask that supplications, prayers, petitions, and thanksgivings be offered for everyone, 2 for kings and for all in authority, that we may lead a quiet and tranquil life in all devotion and dignity. 3 This is good and pleasing to God our savior, 4 who wills everyone to be saved and to come to knowledge of the truth. 5 For there is one God. There is also one mediator between God and the human race, Christ Jesus, himself human, 6 who gave himself as ransom for all. This was the testimony at the proper time. 7 For this I was appointed preacher and apostle — I am speaking the truth, I am not lying—, teacher of the Gentiles in faith and truth. 8 It is my wish, then, that in every place the men should pray, lifting up holy hands, without anger or argument.
Nothing should stand in the way to doing God's will. It may not be easy but if we have placed it in the center of our hearts then it will just come naturally as it becomes the powerhouse or mitochondria of our beings. Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalms 28:2, 7, 8-9
R: Blessed be the Lord, for he has heard my prayer.
… The LORD is my strength and my shield. In him my heart trusts, and I find help; then my heart exults, and with my song I give him thanks. (R) 8 The LORD is the strength of his people, the saving refuge of his anointed.
As Catholics, we are all familiar of these words from today's gospel because it has become a very important part of the Liturgy of the Eucharist. What's interesting here is that not everybody, I guess is fully aware of the fact that these are the very words of a centurion. The following statements are information that I have found in the internet about them. It says, "The backbone of the Roman army were the centurions. The centurions were legionaries and they were clearly noticed because they wore a special helmet, and a more ornate harness of much better quality. They carried a short vine wood staff as a symbol of rank. They worked their way up the ranks as soldiers, and were promoted for their dedication and courage. They were loyal and courageous and were noticed by the general for their skill and courage in battle, and were made officers." -end- I guess, we can learn a lot from the good example of this centurion in today's gospel. What catches my attention this time is the fact that I have mentioned earlier about the powerhouse or mitochondria, it makes perfect sense that it matches in a way the description for the centurion which is the backbone. Come to think of it, these are important cell and body parts that are vital to our existence. Applying these to our spiritual life there is no doubt that it illustrates to us the need for vital components such as faith for the life of our souls. Amen. Hallelujah!
Luke 7:1-10
...“Lord, do not trouble yourself, for I am not worthy to have you enter under my roof. 7 Therefore, I did not consider myself worthy to come to you; but say the word and let my servant be healed. 8 For I too am a person subject to authority, with soldiers subject to me. And I say to one, ‘Go,’ and he goes; and to another, ‘Come here,’ and he comes; and to my slave, ‘Do this,’ and he does it.” 9 When Jesus heard this he was amazed at him and, turning, said to the crowd following him, “I tell you, not even in Israel have I found such faith.”...
Sunday, September 11, 2011
FORGIVENESS
We have some fairly easy questions in life that we can answer right away but the committing part is the one thing we all have difficulty in doing. In this regard we can start by heeding the warning in today's 1st reading. We have to abandon all our hurts and injuries to the Lord, be turned to compassion for those who have caused us so much pain and forgive. God who is full of mercy and love is the one who did it first for us and we ought to follow. We must surrender and abandon everything to the Lord especially when we go through suffering and trials. We will do well to learn the basic thrust of this reading and apply it in our lives. Amen. Hallelujah!
Sirach 27:30-28:7
30 Wrath and anger are hateful things, yet the sinner hugs them tight. 28: 1 The vengeful will suffer the LORD’s vengeance, for he remembers their sins in detail. 2 Forgive your neighbor’s injustice; then when you pray, your own sins will be forgiven. 3 Could anyone nourish anger against his fellows and expect healing from the LORD? 4 Could anyone refuse mercy to another like himself, can he seek pardon for his own sins? 5 If one who is but flesh cherishes wrath, who will forgive his sins? 6 Remember your last days, set enmity aside; remember death and decay, and cease from sin! 7 Think of the commandments, hate not your neighbor; of the Most High’s covenant, and overlook faults.
There is really none like our God. We may search long and hard but we can never really find true satisfaction and remain restless unless we have God in our life. He is our best bet for always and there is no one or nothing else that could or should take first place in our lives more than the Lord. Furthermore, God wanted to take our transgressions as far as the east is from the west as spoken of in the responsorial psalm. Are we ready and willing to turn to Him? How far is the east from the west? Only God knows. We know that the distance is unfathomable, that’s what the Lord does with our sins. Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalms 103:1-2, 3-4, 9-10, 11-12
R: The Lord is kind and merciful.
...Not according to our sins does he deal with us, nor does he requite us according to our crimes. (R) 11 For as the heavens are high above the earth, so surpassing is his kindness toward those who fear him. 12 As far as the east is from the west, so far has he put our transgressions from us.
In today's gospel, Peter wanted to put a limit on forgiveness. The gospel is especially relevant for those with deep hurts. Each time the memory of that hurt comes back, we have to forgive. We have to be honest that we haven’t been without guilt ourselves. In the Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC) 2843 it is stated, "Thus the Lord's words on forgiveness, the love that loves to the end,(Jn 13:1) become a living reality. The parable of the merciless servant, which crowns the Lord's teaching on ecclesial communion, ends with these words: "So also my heavenly Father will do to every one of you, if you do not forgive your brother from your heart."(Mt 18:23-35.) It is there, in fact, "in the depths of the heart," that everything is bound and loosed. It is not in our power not to feel or to forget an offense; but the heart that offers itself to the Holy Spirit turns injury into compassion and purifies the memory in transforming the hurt into intercession."
It is not in our power to not feel the hurt of the memory or even to forget because it is part of our emotional well being to do so when it comes back. But the heart that offers itself to the Holy Spirit turns injury and the memory of the hurt to compassion. This ability to love comes from the Holy Spirit and can help us transform that hurt into intercession. Just like what Jesus did at the cross when He said, Father, forgive them for they don’t know what they’re doing even to the point of making excuses. When we run into people who have hurt us it is an unbelievable feeling to rise above the need for revenge. Forgiveness should be part of our life because revenge is just a never ending cycle. We have to adhere to putting God first and be disciplined in ourselves. We learn from the experience of forgiveness from the life of people who had been through a great deal of pain but were able to overcome it. We learn through their message of forgiveness and start ourselves as we forgive the little things they do against us and then eventually it will be easy to forgive the big things. Today’s gospel reminds us of our situation. We are debtors of an even greater debt. The reality of our situation is that we have a huge debt that we can't pay back. We’re created out of nothing and while we were still sinners Jesus died for us to inherit eternal life. The debt you and I have is far greater than we can pay back. However great our suffering may be, it does not compare to what the Lord has done for us. If we think of this we may want to ask, is there anything way too big to forgive? On our own we can't do it but through the strength given to us from His love, forgiveness and mercy. We recall the words of Jesus while He was crucified on the cross. Father, forgive them for they not what they do, today you will be with me in paradise and behold your son, behold your mother. These are words of compassion and love at a time He was suffering a great deal of pain. We have to look upon the crucifix and remember what the Lord has done for us. We should picture ourselves at the foot of the cross for our sins and its forgiveness. No one in this whole wide world ever had a perfect circumstance and situation. We have all been through our share of sorrows. The saints became saints in the midst of their trying times. They had all the reasons to be bitter. Instead of living with regret and resentment they looked at Jesus who was rejected Himself and offered their rejection in union with His. When we are assailed by pain and suffering we look to Him. Though, He was innocent but He died for us sinners. If we have deep and lasting hurts whenever they come back all we have to do is look at our Lord who is innocent but suffered and died for our salvation. We pray to Jesus and ask to turn our hearts like His own. Amen. Hallelujah!
Matthew 18:21-35
21 Peter approached Jesus and asked him, “Lord, if my brother sins against me, how often must I forgive him? As many as seven times?” 22 Jesus answered, “I say to you, not seven times but seventy-seven times. That is why the kingdom of heaven may be likened to a king who decided to settle accounts with his servants. 24 When he began the accounting, a debtor was brought before him who owed him a huge amount. 25 Since he had no way of paying it back, his master ordered him to be sold, along with his wife, his children, and all his property, in payment of the debt. 26 At that, the servant fell down, did him homage, and said, ‘Be patient with me, and I will pay you back in full.’ 27 Moved with compassion the master of that servant let him go and forgave him the loan. 28 When that servant had left, he found one of his fellow servants who owed him a much smaller amount. He seized him and started to choke him, demanding, ‘Pay back what you owe.’ 29 Falling to his knees, his fellow servant begged him, ‘Be patient with me, and I will pay you back.’ 30 But he refused. Instead, he had him put in prison until he paid back the debt. 31 Now when his fellow servants saw what had happened, they were deeply disturbed, and went to their master and reported the whole affair. 32 His master summoned him and said to him, ‘You wicked servant! I forgave you your entire debt because you begged me to. 33 Should you not have had pity on your fellow servant, as I had pity on you?’ 34 Then in anger his master handed him over to the torturers until he should pay back the whole debt. 35 So will my heavenly Father do to you, unless each of you forgives his brother from his heart.”
Sirach 27:30-28:7
30 Wrath and anger are hateful things, yet the sinner hugs them tight. 28: 1 The vengeful will suffer the LORD’s vengeance, for he remembers their sins in detail. 2 Forgive your neighbor’s injustice; then when you pray, your own sins will be forgiven. 3 Could anyone nourish anger against his fellows and expect healing from the LORD? 4 Could anyone refuse mercy to another like himself, can he seek pardon for his own sins? 5 If one who is but flesh cherishes wrath, who will forgive his sins? 6 Remember your last days, set enmity aside; remember death and decay, and cease from sin! 7 Think of the commandments, hate not your neighbor; of the Most High’s covenant, and overlook faults.
There is really none like our God. We may search long and hard but we can never really find true satisfaction and remain restless unless we have God in our life. He is our best bet for always and there is no one or nothing else that could or should take first place in our lives more than the Lord. Furthermore, God wanted to take our transgressions as far as the east is from the west as spoken of in the responsorial psalm. Are we ready and willing to turn to Him? How far is the east from the west? Only God knows. We know that the distance is unfathomable, that’s what the Lord does with our sins. Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalms 103:1-2, 3-4, 9-10, 11-12
R: The Lord is kind and merciful.
...Not according to our sins does he deal with us, nor does he requite us according to our crimes. (R) 11 For as the heavens are high above the earth, so surpassing is his kindness toward those who fear him. 12 As far as the east is from the west, so far has he put our transgressions from us.
In today's gospel, Peter wanted to put a limit on forgiveness. The gospel is especially relevant for those with deep hurts. Each time the memory of that hurt comes back, we have to forgive. We have to be honest that we haven’t been without guilt ourselves. In the Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC) 2843 it is stated, "Thus the Lord's words on forgiveness, the love that loves to the end,(Jn 13:1) become a living reality. The parable of the merciless servant, which crowns the Lord's teaching on ecclesial communion, ends with these words: "So also my heavenly Father will do to every one of you, if you do not forgive your brother from your heart."(Mt 18:23-35.) It is there, in fact, "in the depths of the heart," that everything is bound and loosed. It is not in our power not to feel or to forget an offense; but the heart that offers itself to the Holy Spirit turns injury into compassion and purifies the memory in transforming the hurt into intercession."
It is not in our power to not feel the hurt of the memory or even to forget because it is part of our emotional well being to do so when it comes back. But the heart that offers itself to the Holy Spirit turns injury and the memory of the hurt to compassion. This ability to love comes from the Holy Spirit and can help us transform that hurt into intercession. Just like what Jesus did at the cross when He said, Father, forgive them for they don’t know what they’re doing even to the point of making excuses. When we run into people who have hurt us it is an unbelievable feeling to rise above the need for revenge. Forgiveness should be part of our life because revenge is just a never ending cycle. We have to adhere to putting God first and be disciplined in ourselves. We learn from the experience of forgiveness from the life of people who had been through a great deal of pain but were able to overcome it. We learn through their message of forgiveness and start ourselves as we forgive the little things they do against us and then eventually it will be easy to forgive the big things. Today’s gospel reminds us of our situation. We are debtors of an even greater debt. The reality of our situation is that we have a huge debt that we can't pay back. We’re created out of nothing and while we were still sinners Jesus died for us to inherit eternal life. The debt you and I have is far greater than we can pay back. However great our suffering may be, it does not compare to what the Lord has done for us. If we think of this we may want to ask, is there anything way too big to forgive? On our own we can't do it but through the strength given to us from His love, forgiveness and mercy. We recall the words of Jesus while He was crucified on the cross. Father, forgive them for they not what they do, today you will be with me in paradise and behold your son, behold your mother. These are words of compassion and love at a time He was suffering a great deal of pain. We have to look upon the crucifix and remember what the Lord has done for us. We should picture ourselves at the foot of the cross for our sins and its forgiveness. No one in this whole wide world ever had a perfect circumstance and situation. We have all been through our share of sorrows. The saints became saints in the midst of their trying times. They had all the reasons to be bitter. Instead of living with regret and resentment they looked at Jesus who was rejected Himself and offered their rejection in union with His. When we are assailed by pain and suffering we look to Him. Though, He was innocent but He died for us sinners. If we have deep and lasting hurts whenever they come back all we have to do is look at our Lord who is innocent but suffered and died for our salvation. We pray to Jesus and ask to turn our hearts like His own. Amen. Hallelujah!
Matthew 18:21-35
21 Peter approached Jesus and asked him, “Lord, if my brother sins against me, how often must I forgive him? As many as seven times?” 22 Jesus answered, “I say to you, not seven times but seventy-seven times. That is why the kingdom of heaven may be likened to a king who decided to settle accounts with his servants. 24 When he began the accounting, a debtor was brought before him who owed him a huge amount. 25 Since he had no way of paying it back, his master ordered him to be sold, along with his wife, his children, and all his property, in payment of the debt. 26 At that, the servant fell down, did him homage, and said, ‘Be patient with me, and I will pay you back in full.’ 27 Moved with compassion the master of that servant let him go and forgave him the loan. 28 When that servant had left, he found one of his fellow servants who owed him a much smaller amount. He seized him and started to choke him, demanding, ‘Pay back what you owe.’ 29 Falling to his knees, his fellow servant begged him, ‘Be patient with me, and I will pay you back.’ 30 But he refused. Instead, he had him put in prison until he paid back the debt. 31 Now when his fellow servants saw what had happened, they were deeply disturbed, and went to their master and reported the whole affair. 32 His master summoned him and said to him, ‘You wicked servant! I forgave you your entire debt because you begged me to. 33 Should you not have had pity on your fellow servant, as I had pity on you?’ 34 Then in anger his master handed him over to the torturers until he should pay back the whole debt. 35 So will my heavenly Father do to you, unless each of you forgives his brother from his heart.”
Saturday, September 10, 2011
FIRM FOUNDATION
Looking back at those times when I didn't have a personal relationship with Jesus yet and used to be a selfish brat who wants to have everything according to my way, I should say that God has been very merciful and patient to me. Those people who knew me when I was younger could really attest to it. I may not be perfect yet but if there's one thing we can totally believe and rely on, that is our God who is perfect never gives up and is continuously at work not just in me but in all of us who accepts this with all our hearts. This is why I am full of gratitude to our God who rightfully deserves all glory and honor. Amen. Hallelujah!
1 Timothy 1:15-17
15 Beloved: This saying is trustworthy and deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners. Of these I am the foremost. 16 But for that reason I was mercifully treated, so that in me, as the foremost, Christ Jesus might display all his patience as an example for those who would come to believe in him for everlasting life. 17 To the king of ages, incorruptible, invisible, the only God, honor and glory forever and ever. Amen.
If we will just be open at all times to this truth that the psalm reading today tells us and realize the importance of always praising God in all circumstance and live it in our lives then we can be assured of the loving, protecting and caring gaze of God to be always on us. Amen. Hallelujah!
P S A L M Psalm 113:1b-2. 3-4. 5a and 6-7
R: Blessed be the name of the Lord for ever.
...From the rising to the setting of the sun is the name of the LORD to be praised. 4 High above all nations is the LORD; above the heavens is his glory. (R) 5 Who is like the LORD, our God, 6 and looks upon the heavens and the earth below? ...
I can still remember when we bought this lot in this subdivision in the Philippines where we had our house built we were informed that the contractors and engineers constructed the roads several feet higher than the original floor level of that subdivision. When we finally constructed our house we had to spend extra money for 30 truckloads of filling material in order to elevate our house to the level of the road where our lot is situated. Not just that we have to build the foundation of our house on the original floor of the lot and needed to raise it up to the level of the road. We just realized that we already spent so much for the foundation alone. That's why today's gospel suddenly reminded me of our house when we had it built. There was indeed a need for us to lay a very strong foundation for our house in the same way that we really have to be deeply rooted in our faith in God. With that I quote the following words from Companion. "To build a house that will last, a person will spend maybe half his money and materials on the foundations. Without good foundations, a building will collapse very quickly; it is thus worth the extra investment in good foundations. The same is true of our spiritual lives — we should dig deep into the recesses of our hearts and purge out the sin in order that our foundations can be set on the firm rock of God’s love and a life of virtue, not vice!" It is easy to say things than do it. We can say things without meaning it just for the sake of pleasing the person whom we are talking to. If there's one thing we really have to commit to then that is our obedience to God knowing that it will always be for our own good. Amen. Hallelujah!
Luke 6:43-49
... I will show you what someone is like who comes to me, listens to my words, and acts on them. 48 That one is like a person building a house, who dug deeply and laid the foundation on rock; when the flood came, the river burst against that house but could not shake it because it had been well built...
1 Timothy 1:15-17
15 Beloved: This saying is trustworthy and deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners. Of these I am the foremost. 16 But for that reason I was mercifully treated, so that in me, as the foremost, Christ Jesus might display all his patience as an example for those who would come to believe in him for everlasting life. 17 To the king of ages, incorruptible, invisible, the only God, honor and glory forever and ever. Amen.
If we will just be open at all times to this truth that the psalm reading today tells us and realize the importance of always praising God in all circumstance and live it in our lives then we can be assured of the loving, protecting and caring gaze of God to be always on us. Amen. Hallelujah!
P S A L M Psalm 113:1b-2. 3-4. 5a and 6-7
R: Blessed be the name of the Lord for ever.
...From the rising to the setting of the sun is the name of the LORD to be praised. 4 High above all nations is the LORD; above the heavens is his glory. (R) 5 Who is like the LORD, our God, 6 and looks upon the heavens and the earth below? ...
I can still remember when we bought this lot in this subdivision in the Philippines where we had our house built we were informed that the contractors and engineers constructed the roads several feet higher than the original floor level of that subdivision. When we finally constructed our house we had to spend extra money for 30 truckloads of filling material in order to elevate our house to the level of the road where our lot is situated. Not just that we have to build the foundation of our house on the original floor of the lot and needed to raise it up to the level of the road. We just realized that we already spent so much for the foundation alone. That's why today's gospel suddenly reminded me of our house when we had it built. There was indeed a need for us to lay a very strong foundation for our house in the same way that we really have to be deeply rooted in our faith in God. With that I quote the following words from Companion. "To build a house that will last, a person will spend maybe half his money and materials on the foundations. Without good foundations, a building will collapse very quickly; it is thus worth the extra investment in good foundations. The same is true of our spiritual lives — we should dig deep into the recesses of our hearts and purge out the sin in order that our foundations can be set on the firm rock of God’s love and a life of virtue, not vice!" It is easy to say things than do it. We can say things without meaning it just for the sake of pleasing the person whom we are talking to. If there's one thing we really have to commit to then that is our obedience to God knowing that it will always be for our own good. Amen. Hallelujah!
Luke 6:43-49
... I will show you what someone is like who comes to me, listens to my words, and acts on them. 48 That one is like a person building a house, who dug deeply and laid the foundation on rock; when the flood came, the river burst against that house but could not shake it because it had been well built...
Friday, September 9, 2011
GOD'S PREDICTION
It is a consolation to know that though we are sinners God will always have mercy on us because He knows exactly what our hearts are made of and filled with. We may not be doing the right thing because we are totally unaware of the truth but God will never leave us in our ignorance. I remember one time when I attended a Catholicism Study and learned a lot of things that I thought I already know. I was shocked to find out that even though I was educated as a Catholic from Kinder to College there are still some things that I do not know of yet. Since the times are changing fast there are also other issues in the Church which are non- existent before but is now a major issue like the stem cell research and in vitro fertilization. There is really a need to update and upgrade our knowledge in our faith so that we can be truly effective in the ministry that God has appointed to us in the same way that Paul was in today’s 1st reading.
First Letter to Timothy 1:1-2.12-14.
Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by command of God our savior and of Christ Jesus our hope, to Timothy, my true child in faith: grace, mercy, and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord. I am grateful to him who has strengthened me, Christ Jesus our Lord, because he considered me trustworthy in appointing me to the ministry.
I was once a blasphemer and a persecutor and an arrogant man, but I have been mercifully treated because I acted out of ignorance in my unbelief. Indeed, the grace of our Lord has been abundant, along with the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus.
When we went to Las Vegas I saw that one of the shows we can watch for entertainment is a magician named Angel. I was reminded of the time when he was a guest in Oprah. He wowed the viewers and the crowd by being able to predict 5 days before the show the things that Oprah and 2 random guests from thousands of people from the audience are going to say. He wrote in a piece of paper these three things: delicious, John and Kevin and kept them in a suitcase with a surveillance camera on for 5 days so that no one can see it or even come near it before the show. What’s very interesting was the fact that on the day of the show when Oprah was asked what word comes to her mind she answered, “delicious” and the other 2 who were chosen randomly from almost more than a thousand crowd along Michigan Ave. in Chicago. It was done by throwing a ball and whoever catches it will be the one who will be asked. The man from the crowd who got the ball was asked the name of his first pet and he answered, “John” while the woman who got the other ball was asked who was her first kiss and she answered, “ Kevin”. All of their answers matched the 3 things that he wrote 5 days in advance. It was kind of unbelievable to see something like this and couldn’t quite come up with a good explanation how it came to be. If it was just a trick he did make a good presentation because it appeared very convincing. How can a man predict in advance the things that these people are going to say? If this man who claims to have the power of prediction was able to do it all the more can a powerful God predict our future. But we must keep in mind that it’s choice not chance that determines our destiny. There is only one real failure in life that is possible and that is not to be true to the best one knows. We should always settle for best and make God our choice. For there is nothing more assuring than the fact that we have a loving God and Father who surely has our destiny secure. Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalms 16:1-2, 5, 7-8, 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. (R) 7 I bless the LORD who counsels me; even in the night my heart exhorts me. 8 I set the LORD ever before me; with him at my right hand I shall not be disturbed. (R) 11 You will show me the path to life, fullness of joys in your presence, the delights at your right hand forever. (R)
If we really want to lead our brothers and sister to the right path then there is no other way to do it than to be a living example of Jesus Christ. We can’t just go around preaching about the gospel without preaching through our life’s example. We should become what we preach. As the saying goes, “The best sermons are lived not preached.” It is of prime importance that we take every opportunity that God sends our way. Of course, God will never leave us empty handed all we have to do is follow the advice in the gospel. When we train hard just like any other athlete aiming to win the gold then we become good, better and eventually the best Christian for the Lord. Amen. Hallelujah!
Luke 6:39-42
39 Jesus told his disciples a parable, “Can a blind person guide a blind person? Will not both fall into a pit? 40 No disciple is superior to the teacher; but when fully trained, every disciple will be like his teacher. 41 Why do you notice the splinter in your brother’s eye, but do not perceive the wooden beam in your own? 42 How can you say to your brother, ‘Brother, let me remove that splinter in your eye,’ when you do not even notice the wooden beam in your own eye? You hypocrite! Remove the wooden beam from your eye first; then you will see clearly to remove the splinter in your brother’s eye.”
First Letter to Timothy 1:1-2.12-14.
Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by command of God our savior and of Christ Jesus our hope, to Timothy, my true child in faith: grace, mercy, and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord. I am grateful to him who has strengthened me, Christ Jesus our Lord, because he considered me trustworthy in appointing me to the ministry.
I was once a blasphemer and a persecutor and an arrogant man, but I have been mercifully treated because I acted out of ignorance in my unbelief. Indeed, the grace of our Lord has been abundant, along with the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus.
When we went to Las Vegas I saw that one of the shows we can watch for entertainment is a magician named Angel. I was reminded of the time when he was a guest in Oprah. He wowed the viewers and the crowd by being able to predict 5 days before the show the things that Oprah and 2 random guests from thousands of people from the audience are going to say. He wrote in a piece of paper these three things: delicious, John and Kevin and kept them in a suitcase with a surveillance camera on for 5 days so that no one can see it or even come near it before the show. What’s very interesting was the fact that on the day of the show when Oprah was asked what word comes to her mind she answered, “delicious” and the other 2 who were chosen randomly from almost more than a thousand crowd along Michigan Ave. in Chicago. It was done by throwing a ball and whoever catches it will be the one who will be asked. The man from the crowd who got the ball was asked the name of his first pet and he answered, “John” while the woman who got the other ball was asked who was her first kiss and she answered, “ Kevin”. All of their answers matched the 3 things that he wrote 5 days in advance. It was kind of unbelievable to see something like this and couldn’t quite come up with a good explanation how it came to be. If it was just a trick he did make a good presentation because it appeared very convincing. How can a man predict in advance the things that these people are going to say? If this man who claims to have the power of prediction was able to do it all the more can a powerful God predict our future. But we must keep in mind that it’s choice not chance that determines our destiny. There is only one real failure in life that is possible and that is not to be true to the best one knows. We should always settle for best and make God our choice. For there is nothing more assuring than the fact that we have a loving God and Father who surely has our destiny secure. Amen. Hallelujah!
Psalms 16:1-2, 5, 7-8, 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. (R) 7 I bless the LORD who counsels me; even in the night my heart exhorts me. 8 I set the LORD ever before me; with him at my right hand I shall not be disturbed. (R) 11 You will show me the path to life, fullness of joys in your presence, the delights at your right hand forever. (R)
If we really want to lead our brothers and sister to the right path then there is no other way to do it than to be a living example of Jesus Christ. We can’t just go around preaching about the gospel without preaching through our life’s example. We should become what we preach. As the saying goes, “The best sermons are lived not preached.” It is of prime importance that we take every opportunity that God sends our way. Of course, God will never leave us empty handed all we have to do is follow the advice in the gospel. When we train hard just like any other athlete aiming to win the gold then we become good, better and eventually the best Christian for the Lord. Amen. Hallelujah!
Luke 6:39-42
39 Jesus told his disciples a parable, “Can a blind person guide a blind person? Will not both fall into a pit? 40 No disciple is superior to the teacher; but when fully trained, every disciple will be like his teacher. 41 Why do you notice the splinter in your brother’s eye, but do not perceive the wooden beam in your own? 42 How can you say to your brother, ‘Brother, let me remove that splinter in your eye,’ when you do not even notice the wooden beam in your own eye? You hypocrite! Remove the wooden beam from your eye first; then you will see clearly to remove the splinter in your brother’s eye.”
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