Pentecost Sunday
John 20:22-23
“Receive the holy Spirit. Whose sins you forgive are forgiven them, and whose sins you retain are retained.”
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“Through the Holy Spirit we are restored to paradise, led back to the Kingdom of heaven, and adopted as children, given confidence to call God our Father and to share in Christ's grace, called children of light and given a share in eternal glory (St. Basil).”
On Pentecost, the Holy Spirit came down visibly on the Apostles. He gave them the power to speak in strange tongues to the crowds that came to Jerusalem for that Feast. He also transformed them, from selfish and timid men into giants of courage and faith. He makes holy the souls of the just by His presence. But a Spirit is not present in the sense of taking up space. We say a Spirit is present wherever it causes an effect. In the soul, the Holy Spirit transforms it, making it basically capable of taking in, after death, the infinite streams of knowledge and love that flow within the Holy Trinity. Thus we are really "sharers in the divine nature" (2 Peter 1:4). This is a dignity so great that any earthly honor is insignificant beside it.
There is no gift of God more excellent than this, and there is no greater gift of God than the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit came to remain with the Church forever. This is the promise of Jesus Himself. He dwells in the Church permanently and unfailingly, performing in it without ceasing, His action of life-giving and sanctification. May we confidently and continually beg of Him to illuminate us daily more and more with His light, inflame us with His charity and inspire us with faith and love. Receive Him and let the Holy Spirit dwell in our hearts, forever.
Let us pray+
Grant, O merciful Father, that Thy Divine Spirit may enlighten, inflame and purify us, that He may penetrate us with His heavenly dew and make us fruitful in good works, through Our Lord Jesus Christ, Thy Son, Who with Thee, in the unity of the same Spirit, liveth and reigneth, one God, forever and ever. Amen +
Lord, send out your Spirit, and renew the face of the earth.
Sunday, May 31, 2009
Saturday, May 30, 2009
THE JOY OF LIFE IN CHRIST
John 21:25
There are also many other things that Jesus did, but if these were to be described individually, I do not think the whole world would contain the books that would be written.
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Born in 1970, I am part of this world for 38 years already. Reckoning back all those years, what have I really done for myself and for others? I finished college in 1992 and got a job in the same year. Got married in 1994 and have 2 kids. Working now with a multinational company, have a house, a car and some liabilities. That’s it! But are those the things God will ask for if I meet Him face to face in Heaven? Would having finished college assures me of being in Heaven forever? I have thought of it before and I am thinking about it now. And my mind would always say “of course, not!” My life’s autobiography would be about 150 pages, more or less, including the table of contents, biography, prologue and epilogue.
Jesus lived for only 33 years and yet the gospel of John proclaims that His life was so rich and colorful that “if these were to be described individually, I do not think the whole world would contain the books that would be written.” You may say that it was just a figure of speech, but hey, remember that Jesus has been with God since the beginning of time. And in His three years of public ministry, He has achieved what no other man has done – to die and be resurrected, all for the glory of God and for our salvation.
It may be one book or a worldful of books. It doesn’t matter anymore. What matters now is that Jesus has really made a lasting change in the lives of many – including you and me. If someone would write a book about your life, would it be as interesting? Would it be focusing on the wordly things that you achieved, or would the pages be focusing more on the lives that you saved because of Him?
Rewrite the pages of your life. Rewrite it now with the Lord as the author.
Lord Jesus, you came that we might have life, and have it abundantly. Thank You for dying on the cross for my sins. I ask You to forgive me and to come into my life right now. Thank You for giving me a relationship with You. May I share that love with others as they see You in me. May my life be lived in total obedience to Your will. Amen+
The LORD is in his holy temple; the LORD's throne is in heaven
There are also many other things that Jesus did, but if these were to be described individually, I do not think the whole world would contain the books that would be written.
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Born in 1970, I am part of this world for 38 years already. Reckoning back all those years, what have I really done for myself and for others? I finished college in 1992 and got a job in the same year. Got married in 1994 and have 2 kids. Working now with a multinational company, have a house, a car and some liabilities. That’s it! But are those the things God will ask for if I meet Him face to face in Heaven? Would having finished college assures me of being in Heaven forever? I have thought of it before and I am thinking about it now. And my mind would always say “of course, not!” My life’s autobiography would be about 150 pages, more or less, including the table of contents, biography, prologue and epilogue.
Jesus lived for only 33 years and yet the gospel of John proclaims that His life was so rich and colorful that “if these were to be described individually, I do not think the whole world would contain the books that would be written.” You may say that it was just a figure of speech, but hey, remember that Jesus has been with God since the beginning of time. And in His three years of public ministry, He has achieved what no other man has done – to die and be resurrected, all for the glory of God and for our salvation.
It may be one book or a worldful of books. It doesn’t matter anymore. What matters now is that Jesus has really made a lasting change in the lives of many – including you and me. If someone would write a book about your life, would it be as interesting? Would it be focusing on the wordly things that you achieved, or would the pages be focusing more on the lives that you saved because of Him?
Rewrite the pages of your life. Rewrite it now with the Lord as the author.
Lord Jesus, you came that we might have life, and have it abundantly. Thank You for dying on the cross for my sins. I ask You to forgive me and to come into my life right now. Thank You for giving me a relationship with You. May I share that love with others as they see You in me. May my life be lived in total obedience to Your will. Amen+
The LORD is in his holy temple; the LORD's throne is in heaven
Friday, May 29, 2009
THE JOY OF FOLLOWING HIM
John 21:15,16,19
“Feed My lambs… tend My sheep… follow Me.”
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Because of fear of being jailed with his Master, Peter denied Jesus three times. Ironically, his denial was predicted by Jesus, himself, which made Peter felt really bad about what happened and “wept bitterly.” However, unlike Judas, Peter did not let those things ruin his life and his relationship with the Lord. He really regained enough composure. I believe the first thing he did was to pray alone to God and seek for forgiveness. And he was forgiven. In his heart, he knows.
After resurrection, Jesus gave him another chance. He asked Peter three times if he loves Him. And Peter responded three times “Lord, you know everything; you know that I love you.” Three denials totally wiped out by three assurance of love. Three denials totally wiped out by total forgiveness from the Lord. Moreover, he even directed Peter to be the leader of His flock – “feed My lambs, tend My sheep, follow Me.”
Going back now to my own life, how many times have I denied the Lord? Peter denied him only three times; I denied him many more than that! But again and again, He in turn ask me, “do you love Me?” How many times will I have to say, "I love you" to overcome my countless denials of Christ? I denied Him and yet the Lord instead has called me to his side, to serve and to teach, bringing the Word to those who are where I was, and who have surpassed where I am even now.
When we learn to follow Jesus, we will be able to feed the lambs, tend the sheep, and feed the sheep. Jesus commissioned Peter to do these things, but he has also commissioned us. Let us be willing to follow Christ and so fulfill the calling he has placed on our lives. Love Him. Follow Him.
Lord Jesus, thank You for Your mercy. I love You and will follow You. Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, and always perseveres.
The Lord has established his throne in heaven.
“Feed My lambs… tend My sheep… follow Me.”
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Because of fear of being jailed with his Master, Peter denied Jesus three times. Ironically, his denial was predicted by Jesus, himself, which made Peter felt really bad about what happened and “wept bitterly.” However, unlike Judas, Peter did not let those things ruin his life and his relationship with the Lord. He really regained enough composure. I believe the first thing he did was to pray alone to God and seek for forgiveness. And he was forgiven. In his heart, he knows.
After resurrection, Jesus gave him another chance. He asked Peter three times if he loves Him. And Peter responded three times “Lord, you know everything; you know that I love you.” Three denials totally wiped out by three assurance of love. Three denials totally wiped out by total forgiveness from the Lord. Moreover, he even directed Peter to be the leader of His flock – “feed My lambs, tend My sheep, follow Me.”
Going back now to my own life, how many times have I denied the Lord? Peter denied him only three times; I denied him many more than that! But again and again, He in turn ask me, “do you love Me?” How many times will I have to say, "I love you" to overcome my countless denials of Christ? I denied Him and yet the Lord instead has called me to his side, to serve and to teach, bringing the Word to those who are where I was, and who have surpassed where I am even now.
When we learn to follow Jesus, we will be able to feed the lambs, tend the sheep, and feed the sheep. Jesus commissioned Peter to do these things, but he has also commissioned us. Let us be willing to follow Christ and so fulfill the calling he has placed on our lives. Love Him. Follow Him.
Lord Jesus, thank You for Your mercy. I love You and will follow You. Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, and always perseveres.
The Lord has established his throne in heaven.
Thursday, May 28, 2009
THE JOY OF LOVING
John 17:26
“I made known to them your name and I will make it known, that the love with which you loved me may be in them and I, in them.”
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As a child, our parents would always ask us what we want to be as we grow up. I, myself, want to be a doctor when I grew up. Actually, every child at that time wants to be a doctor. But as we grow up, we came to choose different paths – different from what our parents want, different from what our hearts dictate, different from what God wants us to be.
But, as we start to know life in the Lord, we start choosing the simple path of love. This is nothing extraordinary. This is our call, our mission, our simple path as humans. To be a gift to one another, a gift of free love. To ask for forgiveness when we did wrong to another person. To do things not out of selfish ambition, but honoring others than better than ourselves. And Who can better model this way of life other than a man who gave His life for His friends. A man named Jesus.
And He lovingly shared His life to us – a life full of love and sacrifice. Let Him take care of us like no other. Let Him teach us and love us and guide us and protect us like no other. All praise and glory to Him, Jesus, forever.
I pray that Jesus may inspire you all, wherever you are, on your simple path. He taught, lived, and died for and in love. He healed the sick, taught forgiveness and love. And He did all of this, so that we may experience the love of God. As He was loved by the Father, so He loves us and He wanst us to share the same love to others. This is truly beautiful. Let us all do something and make something beautiful of the lives we have been given. Our life is a gift to us. Let us be gifts to others, in return.
Almighty Father, because love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth, help me stand up for what is right and good. May I defend the defenseless, and help the helpless. Show me how I can make a difference. Help my heart continually beat with love for You and others.
Amen +
I set the LORD ever before me… I shall not be disturbed.
“I made known to them your name and I will make it known, that the love with which you loved me may be in them and I, in them.”
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As a child, our parents would always ask us what we want to be as we grow up. I, myself, want to be a doctor when I grew up. Actually, every child at that time wants to be a doctor. But as we grow up, we came to choose different paths – different from what our parents want, different from what our hearts dictate, different from what God wants us to be.
But, as we start to know life in the Lord, we start choosing the simple path of love. This is nothing extraordinary. This is our call, our mission, our simple path as humans. To be a gift to one another, a gift of free love. To ask for forgiveness when we did wrong to another person. To do things not out of selfish ambition, but honoring others than better than ourselves. And Who can better model this way of life other than a man who gave His life for His friends. A man named Jesus.
And He lovingly shared His life to us – a life full of love and sacrifice. Let Him take care of us like no other. Let Him teach us and love us and guide us and protect us like no other. All praise and glory to Him, Jesus, forever.
I pray that Jesus may inspire you all, wherever you are, on your simple path. He taught, lived, and died for and in love. He healed the sick, taught forgiveness and love. And He did all of this, so that we may experience the love of God. As He was loved by the Father, so He loves us and He wanst us to share the same love to others. This is truly beautiful. Let us all do something and make something beautiful of the lives we have been given. Our life is a gift to us. Let us be gifts to others, in return.
Almighty Father, because love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth, help me stand up for what is right and good. May I defend the defenseless, and help the helpless. Show me how I can make a difference. Help my heart continually beat with love for You and others.
Amen +
I set the LORD ever before me… I shall not be disturbed.
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
THE JOY OF LEARNING
Acts 2:24
Your word is truth. As you sent me into the world, so I sent them into the world.
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When a Christian has questions concerning his faith, he turns to the Bible, the inspired Word of God, and seeks answers. Guided by the indwelling Holy Spirit – the same Holy Spirit that guide and protects us from doctrinal error – the diligent believer will always discover God’s truth. The Scriptures reveal those things necessary for salvation and are the sole infallible rule of the Christian faith. No one has any right to opt out of the search for truth, especially in faith and morals, no matter how limited or deep their level of religious understanding are.
Jesus is the way, the TRUTH and the life. Find the truth that we are yearning for. Look into your heart and be true to yourself first before asking for truthfulness from others. Turn into Him for salvation, for only Him can set us free. The desire for God is written in the human heart, because man is created by God and for God; and God never ceases to draw man to himself. Only in God will he find the truth and happiness he never stops searching for.
And we should share this Truth. The church of Jesus Christ exists to share the Good News with the whole world. Yes, the Church is made up of sinful, faltering, uncertain saints. But we are all washed in the blood of the Lamb. This Church is you and me.
We are the instrument God has chosen to reach the world with His love. Just imagine that. We are all part of the eternal plan of God to love this fallen, dying, sinful world. All of us -- with all our troubles, fears and uncertainties – are baptized Child of God and are included in His mission to share the Good News to the world. Ask the Lord to give us wisdom, faith and a vision for the future and to make a difference in the world with the Word of God.
Almighty Father, lead me in Your Truth and teach me. I seek Your Truth and trust You and Your Divine Plan because I know that I originally came from You. Protect me Father and help me to always speak the Truth and to purposefully move away from omissions, lies and anything that is not a deliberate reflection of Your Truth.
Awesome…is God, He gives power and strength to His people.
Your word is truth. As you sent me into the world, so I sent them into the world.
-------------------------------------------
When a Christian has questions concerning his faith, he turns to the Bible, the inspired Word of God, and seeks answers. Guided by the indwelling Holy Spirit – the same Holy Spirit that guide and protects us from doctrinal error – the diligent believer will always discover God’s truth. The Scriptures reveal those things necessary for salvation and are the sole infallible rule of the Christian faith. No one has any right to opt out of the search for truth, especially in faith and morals, no matter how limited or deep their level of religious understanding are.
Jesus is the way, the TRUTH and the life. Find the truth that we are yearning for. Look into your heart and be true to yourself first before asking for truthfulness from others. Turn into Him for salvation, for only Him can set us free. The desire for God is written in the human heart, because man is created by God and for God; and God never ceases to draw man to himself. Only in God will he find the truth and happiness he never stops searching for.
And we should share this Truth. The church of Jesus Christ exists to share the Good News with the whole world. Yes, the Church is made up of sinful, faltering, uncertain saints. But we are all washed in the blood of the Lamb. This Church is you and me.
We are the instrument God has chosen to reach the world with His love. Just imagine that. We are all part of the eternal plan of God to love this fallen, dying, sinful world. All of us -- with all our troubles, fears and uncertainties – are baptized Child of God and are included in His mission to share the Good News to the world. Ask the Lord to give us wisdom, faith and a vision for the future and to make a difference in the world with the Word of God.
Almighty Father, lead me in Your Truth and teach me. I seek Your Truth and trust You and Your Divine Plan because I know that I originally came from You. Protect me Father and help me to always speak the Truth and to purposefully move away from omissions, lies and anything that is not a deliberate reflection of Your Truth.
Awesome…is God, He gives power and strength to His people.
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
THE JOY OF WORKING
John 17:4-5
I glorified you on earth by accomplishing the work that you gave me to do. Now glorify me, Father, with you, with the glory that I had with you before the world began.
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I read this in the internet as I read through some inspirational readings I receive through email: “A janitress of 40 years was interviewed on how she could stand the monotony of doing the same thing day in and day out. She responded, ‘I don’t get bored. I use cleaning materials that God made. I clean objects that belong to people God made. I make my life comfortable for them. My mop is the hand of God!”
A lot of times we start out to work for God and we fell because of no determination. The reason for this is because we labor or work for the wrong reason. We work for personal gain. We work because we want to satisfy the requirements of men.
It is really amazing to see God in everything that we use to do our work for Him! We may only have simple things at hand, but knowing that you want to accomplish something for the glory of God, I tell you it is enough. Jesus has accomplished even more, and yet he has no computer or celphone. And yet, the Father is glorified in what Jesus Christ has done. All that Jesus did on the earth displayed the infinite love and mercy of God toward sinners, following faithfully the will of God.
Oh Lord, I have been working for 15 years now, and sometimes I feel very exhausted. Maybe because of the same dull, routine activities I do at work, or the long hours of sitting in front of my laptop. I always see the monotony of all of these, and always forget the blessings I receive in doing them.
Father, I must start seeing You in everything that I do. Only me can motivate myself from the time I wake up in the morning to time I retire in the night. And every task, every duty that I do, I do them for You.
“Everytime we go to work
We should show how much we are worth
Everything is God’s blessing
And to Him we bring back… praise never-ending.”
God is a saving God for us…
I glorified you on earth by accomplishing the work that you gave me to do. Now glorify me, Father, with you, with the glory that I had with you before the world began.
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I read this in the internet as I read through some inspirational readings I receive through email: “A janitress of 40 years was interviewed on how she could stand the monotony of doing the same thing day in and day out. She responded, ‘I don’t get bored. I use cleaning materials that God made. I clean objects that belong to people God made. I make my life comfortable for them. My mop is the hand of God!”
A lot of times we start out to work for God and we fell because of no determination. The reason for this is because we labor or work for the wrong reason. We work for personal gain. We work because we want to satisfy the requirements of men.
It is really amazing to see God in everything that we use to do our work for Him! We may only have simple things at hand, but knowing that you want to accomplish something for the glory of God, I tell you it is enough. Jesus has accomplished even more, and yet he has no computer or celphone. And yet, the Father is glorified in what Jesus Christ has done. All that Jesus did on the earth displayed the infinite love and mercy of God toward sinners, following faithfully the will of God.
Oh Lord, I have been working for 15 years now, and sometimes I feel very exhausted. Maybe because of the same dull, routine activities I do at work, or the long hours of sitting in front of my laptop. I always see the monotony of all of these, and always forget the blessings I receive in doing them.
Father, I must start seeing You in everything that I do. Only me can motivate myself from the time I wake up in the morning to time I retire in the night. And every task, every duty that I do, I do them for You.
“Everytime we go to work
We should show how much we are worth
Everything is God’s blessing
And to Him we bring back… praise never-ending.”
God is a saving God for us…
Monday, May 25, 2009
THE JOY OF LIVING
John 16:33
“In the world you will have trouble, but take courage, I have conquered the world.”
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If I would have followed what the Bible says in a “literalist” sense, I would be a blind man with no arms and hands today – what with all the temptations surrounding me during my adolescent years and even today. Pornographic materials. Taking something not belonging to you. Alcoholism. Lustful gaze. They all trouble us – our minds and our hearts. And I am talking about Matthew 18:8-9, “So if your hand or your foot causes you to sin, cut it off… And if your eye causes you to sin, tear it out…” Literally-speaking, though, this means not entertaining temptations, to a point that we avoid them totally.
We all live in a troubled world. But that doesn’t mean that we have to accept them in our lives. We need to come to the point in our lives where we relinquish to God whatever others - or our circumstances - would take from us. Being a Christian doesn't make us somehow immune from the ills and afflictions of our common fallen humanity, nor does it guarantee us protection from evil acts which others may perpetrate.
Trouble and disaster – whatever their cause – are never the final word. Be still! The Lord is God! The Lord is in our midst! God is our refuge and strength! Put our trust in Him! Live under his grace! Know his peace in this troubled world!
Our greatest challenge for this age, then, is to live as God commands, to proclaim the gospel of the Kingdom of God in all the world, to make disciples in all nations and to care for the disciples God adds to His Church today.
Almighty Father, may You enlighten our mind to think only of whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is fair, whatever is pure, whatever is acceptable, whatever is commendable – and if there is anything of excellence and if there is anything praiseworthy – may we keep thinking about these things (Philippians 4:8).
Sing to God, O kingdoms of the earth.
“In the world you will have trouble, but take courage, I have conquered the world.”
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If I would have followed what the Bible says in a “literalist” sense, I would be a blind man with no arms and hands today – what with all the temptations surrounding me during my adolescent years and even today. Pornographic materials. Taking something not belonging to you. Alcoholism. Lustful gaze. They all trouble us – our minds and our hearts. And I am talking about Matthew 18:8-9, “So if your hand or your foot causes you to sin, cut it off… And if your eye causes you to sin, tear it out…” Literally-speaking, though, this means not entertaining temptations, to a point that we avoid them totally.
We all live in a troubled world. But that doesn’t mean that we have to accept them in our lives. We need to come to the point in our lives where we relinquish to God whatever others - or our circumstances - would take from us. Being a Christian doesn't make us somehow immune from the ills and afflictions of our common fallen humanity, nor does it guarantee us protection from evil acts which others may perpetrate.
Trouble and disaster – whatever their cause – are never the final word. Be still! The Lord is God! The Lord is in our midst! God is our refuge and strength! Put our trust in Him! Live under his grace! Know his peace in this troubled world!
Our greatest challenge for this age, then, is to live as God commands, to proclaim the gospel of the Kingdom of God in all the world, to make disciples in all nations and to care for the disciples God adds to His Church today.
Almighty Father, may You enlighten our mind to think only of whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is fair, whatever is pure, whatever is acceptable, whatever is commendable – and if there is anything of excellence and if there is anything praiseworthy – may we keep thinking about these things (Philippians 4:8).
Sing to God, O kingdoms of the earth.
Sunday, May 24, 2009
THE JOY OF BELIEVING
Solemnity of the Ascension
Mark 16:19
So then the Lord Jesus, after he spoke to them, was taken up into heaven and took his seat at the right hand of God.
I still remember the song we sung during our high school graduation – “Farewell to you my friend, we’ll see each other again, don’t worry cause it’s not the end of everything. We may be miles away, but here is where my heart will stay, with you, my friend with you.” It was such a beautiful song with a beautiful message, that for friends, distance is nothing and being separated is not really the end of everything. All the memories will forever be in our hearts, for us to retrieve, at an instant, in the future.
Jesus is not just a friend. He is our Master, our Lord, our Savior, our God. He is our best friend. For the disciples, they would feel the same grief and sadness as we say goodbye to our friends. They are saying goodbye to a friend and master. But Jesus told them not to be troubled, for He is sending the Holy Spirit who would be forever with them, forever with us until He returns back again to claim us and bring us to eternal life.
When Jesus went up to Heaven, he didn't go to a far place. Heaven is where Jesus is. If Jesus is in you, the whole Heaven is in your heart, right now, including the Father and the Holy Spirit, and the Blessed mother, and all the angels and saints… because where Jesus is, there is the Father and the Spirit, and where Jesus is, there is the Blessed Mother and all the angels and saints.
The joy the disciples had after the Ascension should be the same joy that shall make us worship Him continually and to preach everywhere, without any fear, the good news of the Lord. This joy is for you and for me, only if we believe, because there is more joy and happiness on those who have not seen and yet have come to believe. Jesus came and went back to the Father, but He will not leave us. Seek Him always through the guidance of the Spirit. He is with us, forever. We will be with Him, forever.
Almighty Father, make us joyful in the ascension of your Son Jesus Christ. May we follow Him into the new creation, for His ascension is our glory and our hope. Where He has gone, we ultimately will come. Amen+
Keep me safe, O God; you are my hope.
Mark 16:19
So then the Lord Jesus, after he spoke to them, was taken up into heaven and took his seat at the right hand of God.
I still remember the song we sung during our high school graduation – “Farewell to you my friend, we’ll see each other again, don’t worry cause it’s not the end of everything. We may be miles away, but here is where my heart will stay, with you, my friend with you.” It was such a beautiful song with a beautiful message, that for friends, distance is nothing and being separated is not really the end of everything. All the memories will forever be in our hearts, for us to retrieve, at an instant, in the future.
Jesus is not just a friend. He is our Master, our Lord, our Savior, our God. He is our best friend. For the disciples, they would feel the same grief and sadness as we say goodbye to our friends. They are saying goodbye to a friend and master. But Jesus told them not to be troubled, for He is sending the Holy Spirit who would be forever with them, forever with us until He returns back again to claim us and bring us to eternal life.
When Jesus went up to Heaven, he didn't go to a far place. Heaven is where Jesus is. If Jesus is in you, the whole Heaven is in your heart, right now, including the Father and the Holy Spirit, and the Blessed mother, and all the angels and saints… because where Jesus is, there is the Father and the Spirit, and where Jesus is, there is the Blessed Mother and all the angels and saints.
The joy the disciples had after the Ascension should be the same joy that shall make us worship Him continually and to preach everywhere, without any fear, the good news of the Lord. This joy is for you and for me, only if we believe, because there is more joy and happiness on those who have not seen and yet have come to believe. Jesus came and went back to the Father, but He will not leave us. Seek Him always through the guidance of the Spirit. He is with us, forever. We will be with Him, forever.
Almighty Father, make us joyful in the ascension of your Son Jesus Christ. May we follow Him into the new creation, for His ascension is our glory and our hope. Where He has gone, we ultimately will come. Amen+
Keep me safe, O God; you are my hope.
Saturday, May 23, 2009
THE JOY OF HAVING
John 16:24
Until now you have not asked anything in my name; ask and you will receive, so that your joy may be complete.
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My father was orphaned at an early age. Since then, he lived with his grandmother. He would tell us stories of his life with our “lola sa tuhod” (fore-grandmother), as she is really very strict. He would also tell us that he received no inheritance, whatsoever, from his parents or his grandmother. All he inherited was the good memories (and pain) of growing up and the wisdom he gained through the years.
I was, therefore, luckier than my father, for we inherited a house (just a house since the lot, we lease). But since there was no will of inheritance, we ended up selling the house and divided among us, his children, and went on with our own lives. So, the real inheritance I got from my parents is wisdom through education. Up to now, I am really very thankful that they, as much as they could, really pushed us to study and study hard for our future, working very hard so they can provide the money for our tuition fees, uniforms, shoes, allowance, jeepney fare, payment for field trips and more.
If for these little inheritance, I am already joyful and thankful, what more with the promise of inheritance that our Lord God prepared for me, for us all – the inheritance of Heaven and eternal life. This can make me a very rich man. How about you, are you ready to inherit Heaven?
Almighty Father, I yearn for the riches of inheritance that You prepare for me. I yearn for the mansion in Heaven that You would give me. As I was born to a living hope, I pray that I would continually live in Your spirit so my hope would never die and even flourish through faith, and one day would blossom in fulfillment.
Oh Lord, strengthen us in faith so that we do not deny Jesus’ work for us and in us. Strengthen our faith so that we see the incomparable riches of the glorious inheritance reserved for us in heaven. Strengthen our faith so that we give up all in order to receive that inheritance.
“There can be no consolation in earthly things I have.
As for me, my only treasure is the fullness of Your love.”
All you peoples, clap your hands; shout to God with cries of gladness.
Until now you have not asked anything in my name; ask and you will receive, so that your joy may be complete.
---------------------------------------
My father was orphaned at an early age. Since then, he lived with his grandmother. He would tell us stories of his life with our “lola sa tuhod” (fore-grandmother), as she is really very strict. He would also tell us that he received no inheritance, whatsoever, from his parents or his grandmother. All he inherited was the good memories (and pain) of growing up and the wisdom he gained through the years.
I was, therefore, luckier than my father, for we inherited a house (just a house since the lot, we lease). But since there was no will of inheritance, we ended up selling the house and divided among us, his children, and went on with our own lives. So, the real inheritance I got from my parents is wisdom through education. Up to now, I am really very thankful that they, as much as they could, really pushed us to study and study hard for our future, working very hard so they can provide the money for our tuition fees, uniforms, shoes, allowance, jeepney fare, payment for field trips and more.
If for these little inheritance, I am already joyful and thankful, what more with the promise of inheritance that our Lord God prepared for me, for us all – the inheritance of Heaven and eternal life. This can make me a very rich man. How about you, are you ready to inherit Heaven?
Almighty Father, I yearn for the riches of inheritance that You prepare for me. I yearn for the mansion in Heaven that You would give me. As I was born to a living hope, I pray that I would continually live in Your spirit so my hope would never die and even flourish through faith, and one day would blossom in fulfillment.
Oh Lord, strengthen us in faith so that we do not deny Jesus’ work for us and in us. Strengthen our faith so that we see the incomparable riches of the glorious inheritance reserved for us in heaven. Strengthen our faith so that we give up all in order to receive that inheritance.
“There can be no consolation in earthly things I have.
As for me, my only treasure is the fullness of Your love.”
All you peoples, clap your hands; shout to God with cries of gladness.
Friday, May 22, 2009
THE JOY OF HOPING
John 16:22
But I will see you again, and your hearts will rejoice, and no one will take your joy away from you.
----------------------------------------------
When I was in 1st grade, as we are reviewing my homework in Religion, my father then asked me, “so what do you mean by Hope?” Again, I was dumbfounded. My first response is that it is a cigarette brand (in the Philippines, there is a cigarette brand called Hope). My second response is more out of this world, “it is what you say when stopping something (hoppp, which sounds like “ooppps”. And of course, both are wrong, very wrong!
He then explained, “hope is pag-asa (in Tagalog), isang bagay na gustong makamit o mangyari ng isang tao”. When you hope for something, you have a wish to get or do something; for something to happen or be true. In effect, you put your belief in something that is unseen. Because hope that is seen is not hope. For who hopes for what he sees? But if we hope for what we do not see, then we wait for it with patience (Romans 8:24-25). And that hope in the Lord would keep our heart rejoicing, as we await His second coming. Keep that joy in your heart!!!
Oh Lord, all through my life, I have placed my hope, my trust in “man” – hope that my teacher will give me a passing grade, hope that my mother will give me a good birthday gift, hope that my boss will give me a raise, hope that my wife will understand me. And most of the time, if you put your trust in “man”, you are guaranteed to get hurt because at some point, someone is going to let you down and deeply disappoint you. For you are believing in someone other than God, to give you hope or happiness.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, as I go through this material life, I have to truly put everything in Your hands, for You are our only hope. I do not really know what the future holds for me, my family, my friends; but one thing is for sure, WE KNOW WHO HOLDS OUR FUTURE – AND YOU ARE THE SOURCE OF OUR JOY IN OUR HEARTS. Because only You knows everything. And for us, that should be enough.
Amen +
God is king of all the earth.
But I will see you again, and your hearts will rejoice, and no one will take your joy away from you.
----------------------------------------------
When I was in 1st grade, as we are reviewing my homework in Religion, my father then asked me, “so what do you mean by Hope?” Again, I was dumbfounded. My first response is that it is a cigarette brand (in the Philippines, there is a cigarette brand called Hope). My second response is more out of this world, “it is what you say when stopping something (hoppp, which sounds like “ooppps”. And of course, both are wrong, very wrong!
He then explained, “hope is pag-asa (in Tagalog), isang bagay na gustong makamit o mangyari ng isang tao”. When you hope for something, you have a wish to get or do something; for something to happen or be true. In effect, you put your belief in something that is unseen. Because hope that is seen is not hope. For who hopes for what he sees? But if we hope for what we do not see, then we wait for it with patience (Romans 8:24-25). And that hope in the Lord would keep our heart rejoicing, as we await His second coming. Keep that joy in your heart!!!
Oh Lord, all through my life, I have placed my hope, my trust in “man” – hope that my teacher will give me a passing grade, hope that my mother will give me a good birthday gift, hope that my boss will give me a raise, hope that my wife will understand me. And most of the time, if you put your trust in “man”, you are guaranteed to get hurt because at some point, someone is going to let you down and deeply disappoint you. For you are believing in someone other than God, to give you hope or happiness.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, as I go through this material life, I have to truly put everything in Your hands, for You are our only hope. I do not really know what the future holds for me, my family, my friends; but one thing is for sure, WE KNOW WHO HOLDS OUR FUTURE – AND YOU ARE THE SOURCE OF OUR JOY IN OUR HEARTS. Because only You knows everything. And for us, that should be enough.
Amen +
God is king of all the earth.
Thursday, May 21, 2009
THE LABOR OF LOVE
John 16:20
“Amen, amen, I say to you, you will weep and mourn, while the world rejoices; you will grieve, but your grief will become joy.”
------------------------------------------
The woman is in labor. The woman is in pain as she try to push out the baby from her womb to the world. You would see her in anguish and shouting, at the top of her voice. She directs her pain to her husband – “Hayop ka, di ka na makakaulit! Ang hirap manganak!” (“You bastard! This is the last time I will bear your child!”). However, after some time and the baby was born, she no longer remembers the pain. In the recovery room, you would see her in so much joy after seeing her baby. And she would be hugging and kissing her husband again. Nobody knows, but maybe, 10 to 12 months later, she would be in the same hospital, giving birth to another baby!
In today’s gospel, as Jesus bids farewell to His disciples, He acknowledged their pain and anguish, seeing their Master and a friend leaving them. He likens this pain to a woman in labor – “When a woman is in labor, she is in anguish because her hour has arrived; but when she has given birth to a child, she no longer remembers the pain because of her joy that a child has been born into the world”.
We all suffer the pain that this world offers, but this should not be enough reason not to rejoice in knowing that Jesus, through God’s Spirit, is within us, in our hearts, forever. Jesus provides deep inner peace and courage in the midst of troubling times. Start living to rejoice in Jesus, whose unfailing love, mercy, and grace poured out on our lives is far better than anything you could ever imagine.
We rejoice in Jesus Christ who died for us. We rejoice in Jesus Christ who rose again for us. We look forward to the return of our Lord Jesus Christ. We look forward to the Day when “He will swallow up death for ever”. On that Day, “the Lord God will wipe away the tears from all faces”.
Lord Jesus, we rejoice when You are born. We rejoice when You are resurrected and we rejoice as we await for Your second coming. May we forever keep this joy in our hearts, knowing that no one can ever take away this joy from our hearts. Only to You, we give our praise. Only to You, we would shout in joyful worship forever. Amen+
The Lord has revealed to the nations His saving power.
“Amen, amen, I say to you, you will weep and mourn, while the world rejoices; you will grieve, but your grief will become joy.”
------------------------------------------
The woman is in labor. The woman is in pain as she try to push out the baby from her womb to the world. You would see her in anguish and shouting, at the top of her voice. She directs her pain to her husband – “Hayop ka, di ka na makakaulit! Ang hirap manganak!” (“You bastard! This is the last time I will bear your child!”). However, after some time and the baby was born, she no longer remembers the pain. In the recovery room, you would see her in so much joy after seeing her baby. And she would be hugging and kissing her husband again. Nobody knows, but maybe, 10 to 12 months later, she would be in the same hospital, giving birth to another baby!
In today’s gospel, as Jesus bids farewell to His disciples, He acknowledged their pain and anguish, seeing their Master and a friend leaving them. He likens this pain to a woman in labor – “When a woman is in labor, she is in anguish because her hour has arrived; but when she has given birth to a child, she no longer remembers the pain because of her joy that a child has been born into the world”.
We all suffer the pain that this world offers, but this should not be enough reason not to rejoice in knowing that Jesus, through God’s Spirit, is within us, in our hearts, forever. Jesus provides deep inner peace and courage in the midst of troubling times. Start living to rejoice in Jesus, whose unfailing love, mercy, and grace poured out on our lives is far better than anything you could ever imagine.
We rejoice in Jesus Christ who died for us. We rejoice in Jesus Christ who rose again for us. We look forward to the return of our Lord Jesus Christ. We look forward to the Day when “He will swallow up death for ever”. On that Day, “the Lord God will wipe away the tears from all faces”.
Lord Jesus, we rejoice when You are born. We rejoice when You are resurrected and we rejoice as we await for Your second coming. May we forever keep this joy in our hearts, knowing that no one can ever take away this joy from our hearts. Only to You, we give our praise. Only to You, we would shout in joyful worship forever. Amen+
The Lord has revealed to the nations His saving power.
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
THE ONE TRUE GOD
Acts 17:28
For ‘In him we live and move and have our being…’
-----------------------------------------
The first reading today shows St. Paul talking to the Athenians. Zeus, Jupiter, Neptune, Hermes, Venus, Mars, Cupid – gods of the ancient Greek and Roman mythologies. Up to the time of Jesus and his disciples, these gods are being worshipped and praised by the gentiles in the Asia Minor region. If they are thought to live in heaven before, they are just names of heavenly bodies today. Thanks to Jesus apostles and disciples, the gentile came to know the ONLY TRUE GOD. This is the truth of eternal life and salvation. This is the truth that we believe.
The Holy Bible, which is the inspired Word of God that never has been nor ever will be changed, testifies that there is only one God. Man cannot truly know about God except through divine revelation. It is not possible for the finite human mind to understand the nature of the infinite God. Therefore, it was necessary that God reveal Himself to us through divinely inspired writings. This is the very reason why our heart yearns for Him, because the desire for God is written in the human heart. God never ceases to draw us to Himself. Only in God will we find the truth and happiness we never stops searching for. Because we exist for God has created us out of love.
Our God is the only true God. This is the only truth that we need to believe so we may live eternal life. And faith in Him is our response to God, who reveals Himself and gives Himself to man, at the same time bringing to us the light and the way as we search for the ultimate meaning of life.
We believe in God, the Father Almighty, Creator of Heaven and Earth. And in Jesus Christ, His only Son and our Lord. And finally, in the Holy Spirit. One God, forever and ever. He is ONE TRUE GOD, and that is the only thing that cannot be changed.
You are great, O Lord, and greatly to be praised: great is Your power and Your wisdom is without measure. We praise You, we worship You, we put our faith in You, for You are the only truth that we believe. You yourself encourage us to delight in Your praise, for You have made us for Yourself, and our heart is restless until it rests in You.
Heaven and earth are full of your glory.
For ‘In him we live and move and have our being…’
-----------------------------------------
The first reading today shows St. Paul talking to the Athenians. Zeus, Jupiter, Neptune, Hermes, Venus, Mars, Cupid – gods of the ancient Greek and Roman mythologies. Up to the time of Jesus and his disciples, these gods are being worshipped and praised by the gentiles in the Asia Minor region. If they are thought to live in heaven before, they are just names of heavenly bodies today. Thanks to Jesus apostles and disciples, the gentile came to know the ONLY TRUE GOD. This is the truth of eternal life and salvation. This is the truth that we believe.
The Holy Bible, which is the inspired Word of God that never has been nor ever will be changed, testifies that there is only one God. Man cannot truly know about God except through divine revelation. It is not possible for the finite human mind to understand the nature of the infinite God. Therefore, it was necessary that God reveal Himself to us through divinely inspired writings. This is the very reason why our heart yearns for Him, because the desire for God is written in the human heart. God never ceases to draw us to Himself. Only in God will we find the truth and happiness we never stops searching for. Because we exist for God has created us out of love.
Our God is the only true God. This is the only truth that we need to believe so we may live eternal life. And faith in Him is our response to God, who reveals Himself and gives Himself to man, at the same time bringing to us the light and the way as we search for the ultimate meaning of life.
We believe in God, the Father Almighty, Creator of Heaven and Earth. And in Jesus Christ, His only Son and our Lord. And finally, in the Holy Spirit. One God, forever and ever. He is ONE TRUE GOD, and that is the only thing that cannot be changed.
You are great, O Lord, and greatly to be praised: great is Your power and Your wisdom is without measure. We praise You, we worship You, we put our faith in You, for You are the only truth that we believe. You yourself encourage us to delight in Your praise, for You have made us for Yourself, and our heart is restless until it rests in You.
Heaven and earth are full of your glory.
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
THE PARACLETE
John 16:7
For if I do not go, the Advocate will not come to you. But if I go, I will send Him to you.
--------------------------------------
The Holy Trinity is composed of God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Spirit. One God, three Persons. For many of us, this is a difficult concept to grasp. Yet we learn from scripture that He comprises three separate personages. One way to partially visualize this concept is to examine the nature of water (H2O). Water is a single compound that can exist in three states – liquid, ice and vapor. An egg is another picture. It is comprised of the white, the yoke and the shell, yet still one egg. These examples paint a complete picture of our God, but they are illustrative of the fact that His three “persons” in no way invalidate His oneness.
Moreover, we always studied and talked about God and Jesus Christ and yet spend less regarding the Holy Spirit. In Romans 15:30, we see the Holy Spirit has emotion, as represented by the capacity to love – “I urge you, [brothers] by our Lord Jesus Christ and by the love of the Spirit, to join me in the struggle by your prayers to God on my behalf.”
In John 14:26, we learn that the Holy Spirit is our Counselor and teacher – “The Advocate, the Holy Spirit that the Father will send in my name – He will teach you everything and remind you of all that [I] told you.”
In 1Corinthians 3:16, we see that the Holy Spirit lives inside us – “Do you not know that you are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwells in you?”
While each “personage” in the Trinity is distinct in function, each shares together in the same deity and each reflects the divine attributes of the one living God. Receive the gifts of the Holy Spirit, the great advocate.
Come Holy Spirit, and fill the hearts of your faithful, and kindle in them the fire of Your Divine Love. Send forth Your Spirit and they shall be created, and You shall renew the face of the earth. Oh God, Who by the light of the Holy Spirit instructed the hearts of the faithful, grant that by the same Spirit we may be truly wise and ever rejoice in His consolation. We ask this through Christ Our Lord. Amen+
When I called, You answered me; You built up strength within me.
For if I do not go, the Advocate will not come to you. But if I go, I will send Him to you.
--------------------------------------
The Holy Trinity is composed of God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Spirit. One God, three Persons. For many of us, this is a difficult concept to grasp. Yet we learn from scripture that He comprises three separate personages. One way to partially visualize this concept is to examine the nature of water (H2O). Water is a single compound that can exist in three states – liquid, ice and vapor. An egg is another picture. It is comprised of the white, the yoke and the shell, yet still one egg. These examples paint a complete picture of our God, but they are illustrative of the fact that His three “persons” in no way invalidate His oneness.
Moreover, we always studied and talked about God and Jesus Christ and yet spend less regarding the Holy Spirit. In Romans 15:30, we see the Holy Spirit has emotion, as represented by the capacity to love – “I urge you, [brothers] by our Lord Jesus Christ and by the love of the Spirit, to join me in the struggle by your prayers to God on my behalf.”
In John 14:26, we learn that the Holy Spirit is our Counselor and teacher – “The Advocate, the Holy Spirit that the Father will send in my name – He will teach you everything and remind you of all that [I] told you.”
In 1Corinthians 3:16, we see that the Holy Spirit lives inside us – “Do you not know that you are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwells in you?”
While each “personage” in the Trinity is distinct in function, each shares together in the same deity and each reflects the divine attributes of the one living God. Receive the gifts of the Holy Spirit, the great advocate.
Come Holy Spirit, and fill the hearts of your faithful, and kindle in them the fire of Your Divine Love. Send forth Your Spirit and they shall be created, and You shall renew the face of the earth. Oh God, Who by the light of the Holy Spirit instructed the hearts of the faithful, grant that by the same Spirit we may be truly wise and ever rejoice in His consolation. We ask this through Christ Our Lord. Amen+
When I called, You answered me; You built up strength within me.
Monday, May 18, 2009
IN THE LORD
Acts 16:15
If you consider me a believer in the Lord, come and stay at my home…
-----------------------------------------
“God Bless Our Home”. It’s hanging on the wall. The words “God” and “Our”, I understand. But “Bless” and “Home”? So, I asked my father what they mean.
BLESS – to provide someone or something with holiness or hope
HOME – it means more than just the house or structure. It may refer to the family living inside, where love and caring resides.
“God Bless Our Home” – may the Lord God bestow on our family His holiness, love, mercy and hope. A short prayer showing trust in God that He will be with us, His family, forever.
Create the relationships you wish for yourself and your family by being the example you want from each of them. God has seen fit to teach man about family by giving Him a family of his own. It is wrong to take your family for granted. Members of a family have obligations to one another. We have a right to expect love, support, encouragement, protection and even preference from our family.
Lord Jesus, with Mary and Joseph, you have lived within a family; teach me always to appreciate the precious gift of being part of a family. Show me new ways to protect and comfort those closest to me, and let me, each day, do something that will say ‘I love you’ without speaking the words.
Remind me also to frequently say those words of love, never be a part from any member of my family due to anger. Prompt me always to turn back without delay - to forgive, and be forgiven.
Let me see your image within each person in my own family, and in my greater family, knowing that in your Kingdom, we will truly be one family, united by your sacrifice on the cross.
This is the glory of all his faithful. Alleluia.
If you consider me a believer in the Lord, come and stay at my home…
-----------------------------------------
“God Bless Our Home”. It’s hanging on the wall. The words “God” and “Our”, I understand. But “Bless” and “Home”? So, I asked my father what they mean.
BLESS – to provide someone or something with holiness or hope
HOME – it means more than just the house or structure. It may refer to the family living inside, where love and caring resides.
“God Bless Our Home” – may the Lord God bestow on our family His holiness, love, mercy and hope. A short prayer showing trust in God that He will be with us, His family, forever.
Create the relationships you wish for yourself and your family by being the example you want from each of them. God has seen fit to teach man about family by giving Him a family of his own. It is wrong to take your family for granted. Members of a family have obligations to one another. We have a right to expect love, support, encouragement, protection and even preference from our family.
Lord Jesus, with Mary and Joseph, you have lived within a family; teach me always to appreciate the precious gift of being part of a family. Show me new ways to protect and comfort those closest to me, and let me, each day, do something that will say ‘I love you’ without speaking the words.
Remind me also to frequently say those words of love, never be a part from any member of my family due to anger. Prompt me always to turn back without delay - to forgive, and be forgiven.
Let me see your image within each person in my own family, and in my greater family, knowing that in your Kingdom, we will truly be one family, united by your sacrifice on the cross.
This is the glory of all his faithful. Alleluia.
Sunday, May 17, 2009
IN HIM ALONE
John 15:10
“Remain in my love. If you keep my commandments, you will remain in my love…”
------------------------------------------
My son approached me and told me to replace the battery of his toy because it is already discharged. I asked him why he thinks that the battery needs to be replaced. “It’s because the toy is not moving anymore” was his response. He knew then that the battery is the source of power so the toy would move. He knew then that once that toy stops moving, the battery has to be replaced. For him, everything moves and dies because of the battery.
We do not have batteries, and yet we move. We do not have batteries, and yet when we get tired, we exclaim “I need to recharge”. So, we go for a vacation, go to the beach or a spa, or just take that well-deserved rest by sleeping the whole day.
However, not only do our body gets weary, but our spirit as well. When we have problems or difficulties in life, we feel disappointed and frustrated. When we feel that the world is against us, we feel depressed. Our spirit also need to recharge! Start by putting yourself inside the charging bed – put yourself in the presence of the Lord, all in silence. Then, plug yourself in – talk to Him in prayers. Ask Him to come to you. Lastly, feel the charge and the current coming in – feel His loving presence, ask Him to clear your mind and relieve yourself of the burden you are carrying. As soon as the light turns green, your spirit is fully charged, ready to face again everything that comes in your way. Then, remain in Him forever.
He created us in His own image. He recharged us with His own Spirit so we may move and live our life in total obedience to His Word. Let Him enter your life, let Him enter your heart. Make Him in-charge. Recharge now and remain in Him.
Almighty Father, recharge our soul, recharge our spirit. You sent your Spirit so we may live and move and have our being. Give us strength and a clear mind so we may understand more Your will. Be in-charge of our lives as we totally give them up to You.
The Lord has revealed to the nations his saving power.
“Remain in my love. If you keep my commandments, you will remain in my love…”
------------------------------------------
My son approached me and told me to replace the battery of his toy because it is already discharged. I asked him why he thinks that the battery needs to be replaced. “It’s because the toy is not moving anymore” was his response. He knew then that the battery is the source of power so the toy would move. He knew then that once that toy stops moving, the battery has to be replaced. For him, everything moves and dies because of the battery.
We do not have batteries, and yet we move. We do not have batteries, and yet when we get tired, we exclaim “I need to recharge”. So, we go for a vacation, go to the beach or a spa, or just take that well-deserved rest by sleeping the whole day.
However, not only do our body gets weary, but our spirit as well. When we have problems or difficulties in life, we feel disappointed and frustrated. When we feel that the world is against us, we feel depressed. Our spirit also need to recharge! Start by putting yourself inside the charging bed – put yourself in the presence of the Lord, all in silence. Then, plug yourself in – talk to Him in prayers. Ask Him to come to you. Lastly, feel the charge and the current coming in – feel His loving presence, ask Him to clear your mind and relieve yourself of the burden you are carrying. As soon as the light turns green, your spirit is fully charged, ready to face again everything that comes in your way. Then, remain in Him forever.
He created us in His own image. He recharged us with His own Spirit so we may move and live our life in total obedience to His Word. Let Him enter your life, let Him enter your heart. Make Him in-charge. Recharge now and remain in Him.
Almighty Father, recharge our soul, recharge our spirit. You sent your Spirit so we may live and move and have our being. Give us strength and a clear mind so we may understand more Your will. Be in-charge of our lives as we totally give them up to You.
The Lord has revealed to the nations his saving power.
Saturday, May 16, 2009
IN PEACE AMIDST HATRED
John 15:18
“If the world hates you, realize that it hated me first.”
-------------------------------------
In the Acts of the Apostles, the name of St. Stephen occurs for the first time on the occasion of the appointment of the first deacons. On the day of his death, the enemies of the Church of Jesus were furious to see how successful Stephen's preaching was. At last, they laid a plot for him. They could not answer his wise argument, so they got men to lie about him, saying that he had spoken sinfully against God. St. Stephen faced that great assembly of enemies without fear. In fact, the Holy Bible says that his face looked like the face of an angel.
The praying martyr was thrown down; and while the witnesses were thrusting upon him "a stone as much as two men could carry", he was heard to utter this supreme prayer: "Lord Jesus, receive my spirit". Little did all the people present, casting stones upon him, realize that the blood they shed was the first seed of a harvest that was to cover the world. And ironically, the leader of that mob was no other than Paul, called Saul at that time, and was the main persecutor of the Hellenist Christians.
Yes, hatred exists everywhere. It has always existed and it always will until the second coming of Messiah. That's the just the sad truth of the matter. It's a fact of life. However, hatred need not rule our lives nor must we react the same when it comes our way.
That is why we have the Holy Spirit, to help us through these trials and tribulations. We must remember Who we are, Who’s we are with, and What we have. We have the Spirit of God Himself living and breathing in us. There is no harm in asking for more blessings, but sometimes we forget about the suffering. We must remember that Christ suffered unto death.
We are built to last. God will never put more on us than we can bear. Release the anger in your heart and love those who hate you. Always remember, Christ’s suffering on our behalf is infinitely far greater than our suffering on His behalf will be.
Almighty Father, receive my spirit and do not hold this sin against those who hates me. We love you because You loved us first.
Sing joyfully to the LORD… serve the LORD with gladness…
“If the world hates you, realize that it hated me first.”
-------------------------------------
In the Acts of the Apostles, the name of St. Stephen occurs for the first time on the occasion of the appointment of the first deacons. On the day of his death, the enemies of the Church of Jesus were furious to see how successful Stephen's preaching was. At last, they laid a plot for him. They could not answer his wise argument, so they got men to lie about him, saying that he had spoken sinfully against God. St. Stephen faced that great assembly of enemies without fear. In fact, the Holy Bible says that his face looked like the face of an angel.
The praying martyr was thrown down; and while the witnesses were thrusting upon him "a stone as much as two men could carry", he was heard to utter this supreme prayer: "Lord Jesus, receive my spirit". Little did all the people present, casting stones upon him, realize that the blood they shed was the first seed of a harvest that was to cover the world. And ironically, the leader of that mob was no other than Paul, called Saul at that time, and was the main persecutor of the Hellenist Christians.
Yes, hatred exists everywhere. It has always existed and it always will until the second coming of Messiah. That's the just the sad truth of the matter. It's a fact of life. However, hatred need not rule our lives nor must we react the same when it comes our way.
That is why we have the Holy Spirit, to help us through these trials and tribulations. We must remember Who we are, Who’s we are with, and What we have. We have the Spirit of God Himself living and breathing in us. There is no harm in asking for more blessings, but sometimes we forget about the suffering. We must remember that Christ suffered unto death.
We are built to last. God will never put more on us than we can bear. Release the anger in your heart and love those who hate you. Always remember, Christ’s suffering on our behalf is infinitely far greater than our suffering on His behalf will be.
Almighty Father, receive my spirit and do not hold this sin against those who hates me. We love you because You loved us first.
Sing joyfully to the LORD… serve the LORD with gladness…
Friday, May 15, 2009
IN GRATITUDE
Psalms 57:10
I will give thanks to you among the peoples, O LORD, I will chant your praise among the nations.
-------------------------------------------
When alone, I thought of many things. I thought of things that bother me at that moment. However, there are so many things that I should be thankful about. Though there are a lot of challenges and problems that we face today, just think of what the Lord God can do and provide us to conquer them all. When we do that which is right God provides for our needs, and we in turn glorify Him, by offering praise, that is by giving thanks to Him. Therefore, if we do that which is right, we will honor God, by thanking Him from the heart.
There are still a lot of things that I think I need. But I should thank Him for all the things He has given me. Prayer with thanksgiving is prayer with faith. True faith will result in prayer with thanksgiving, and when prayer is offered with thanksgiving, God will honor that prayer. When we worship God with thanksgiving we should do so by making mention of His great works with joyful singing. A joyful and thankful heart is true worship.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, let the word that goes forth from our mouths speak of your peace, and let us proclaim our hope in Christ as Savior of all humankind. We pray that you will bless all of us, as we have come to experience your presence among us. Give us your guidance, O God, and empower us for your work. For we claim nothing for ourselves, but return all honor and glory unto you, and offer our thanks and praise.
Amen +
I will give you thanks among the peoples, O Lord.
I will give thanks to you among the peoples, O LORD, I will chant your praise among the nations.
-------------------------------------------
When alone, I thought of many things. I thought of things that bother me at that moment. However, there are so many things that I should be thankful about. Though there are a lot of challenges and problems that we face today, just think of what the Lord God can do and provide us to conquer them all. When we do that which is right God provides for our needs, and we in turn glorify Him, by offering praise, that is by giving thanks to Him. Therefore, if we do that which is right, we will honor God, by thanking Him from the heart.
There are still a lot of things that I think I need. But I should thank Him for all the things He has given me. Prayer with thanksgiving is prayer with faith. True faith will result in prayer with thanksgiving, and when prayer is offered with thanksgiving, God will honor that prayer. When we worship God with thanksgiving we should do so by making mention of His great works with joyful singing. A joyful and thankful heart is true worship.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, let the word that goes forth from our mouths speak of your peace, and let us proclaim our hope in Christ as Savior of all humankind. We pray that you will bless all of us, as we have come to experience your presence among us. Give us your guidance, O God, and empower us for your work. For we claim nothing for ourselves, but return all honor and glory unto you, and offer our thanks and praise.
Amen +
I will give you thanks among the peoples, O Lord.
Thursday, May 14, 2009
IN HIS LOVE
John 15:17
This I command you: love one another.
----------------------------------------
When someone says "I love you" it could mean many different things. The first is the “IF” kind of love – “I will love you IF you do things the way I want.” This is a selfish love because it is solely based upon future expectations. This is the childish love we are all born with. It is a worldly love of natural instincts. We need to mature out of the “IF” kind of love!
The second one is “BECAUSE OF” kind of love – “I love you because you are beautiful, or because you are popular.” This kind of love is not in tune with reality when it demands that things stay the same in an ever changing world. It is full of doubts and fears for what tomorrow might bring.
The third one is “IN SPITE OF” kind of love – “I love you in spite of your faults.” True love is unconditional. It is the love that God loves us with. It is an enduring love that doesn't even keep a score card. It will always be there tomorrow regardless of what we have done today.
God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. Christ didn't die for us BECAUSE we were very good and worth dying for. Rather He died for us in SPITE OF the fact we were worthless sinners. This is the same love that God want us to show and give to others. To love another selflessly is a lasting treasure of infinite greatness and one that continues to grow and expand through the years. Even if we suffer catastrophe, the love we have been given and the love we have shown can never be taken away from us. We have loved, and we continue to love for our Father IS LOVE. And this is the same love we have to give.
God, my Father, may I love You in all things and above all things.
May I reach the joy which You have prepared for me in Heaven. Place in my heart a desire to please You and fill my mind with thoughts of Your Love, so that I may grow in Your Wisdom and enjoy Your Peace.
“Make my love for others be greater by far, led by the Spirit,
Inspired of God, as forgiving as Jesus...and free.”
Praise, you servants of the LORD, praise the name of the LORD.
This I command you: love one another.
----------------------------------------
When someone says "I love you" it could mean many different things. The first is the “IF” kind of love – “I will love you IF you do things the way I want.” This is a selfish love because it is solely based upon future expectations. This is the childish love we are all born with. It is a worldly love of natural instincts. We need to mature out of the “IF” kind of love!
The second one is “BECAUSE OF” kind of love – “I love you because you are beautiful, or because you are popular.” This kind of love is not in tune with reality when it demands that things stay the same in an ever changing world. It is full of doubts and fears for what tomorrow might bring.
The third one is “IN SPITE OF” kind of love – “I love you in spite of your faults.” True love is unconditional. It is the love that God loves us with. It is an enduring love that doesn't even keep a score card. It will always be there tomorrow regardless of what we have done today.
God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. Christ didn't die for us BECAUSE we were very good and worth dying for. Rather He died for us in SPITE OF the fact we were worthless sinners. This is the same love that God want us to show and give to others. To love another selflessly is a lasting treasure of infinite greatness and one that continues to grow and expand through the years. Even if we suffer catastrophe, the love we have been given and the love we have shown can never be taken away from us. We have loved, and we continue to love for our Father IS LOVE. And this is the same love we have to give.
God, my Father, may I love You in all things and above all things.
May I reach the joy which You have prepared for me in Heaven. Place in my heart a desire to please You and fill my mind with thoughts of Your Love, so that I may grow in Your Wisdom and enjoy Your Peace.
“Make my love for others be greater by far, led by the Spirit,
Inspired of God, as forgiving as Jesus...and free.”
Praise, you servants of the LORD, praise the name of the LORD.
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
IN HIM FOREVER
John 15:4
Just as a branch cannot bear fruit on its own unless it remains on the vine, so neither can you unless you remain in me.
---------------------------------------------
I can say that I am good at math. Since my elementary days, math is my favorite subject, and I believe I have not got a grade lower than 88. I even “conquered” algebra, trigonometry and calculus with ease. So, at first I can’t understand why my son has a hard time dealing with math. The explanation given to me by his teacher is that “he is afraid of numbers” – just like some of us afraid of heights, afraid of spiders, afraid of water, afraid of being alone.
So the first thing I have to do is to remove that fear. I told him that what is important is to remember, at heart, the four fundamental operations of “My Dear Aunt Sally.” Also, he must note that math or numbers are constant things. What you heard or learned in elementary will be the same things that you will hear or learn in college. “Two plus two” is four – yesterday, today and ten-thousand years from now! But the president of the Philippines is different in 1940, and may be different tomorrow. If he knows the number by heart, then he knows math forever.
In his first letter to the early Christian communities, John specifically ask them to remain in God – “If what you heard from the beginning remains in you, then you will remain in the Son and in the Father.” And as true Christians, we must keep His name and His promises in our hearts, for God is the only true God – yesterday, today and ten-thousand years from now – even forever!
Almighty Father, I am with You forever. You are the Lord yesterday, today and until the end of time. Your teachings are righteous and true and shall forever guide me, so no one may deceive me and take me away from You. I am Yours and You are mine, forever.
Oh Lord, grant us peace this new year. May we forever receive the blessings from You as we await in joyful hope for Your second coming.
“My life remains in Him, forever
For He kindles my heart with joy everlasting.”
Let us go rejoicing to the house of the Lord.
Just as a branch cannot bear fruit on its own unless it remains on the vine, so neither can you unless you remain in me.
---------------------------------------------
I can say that I am good at math. Since my elementary days, math is my favorite subject, and I believe I have not got a grade lower than 88. I even “conquered” algebra, trigonometry and calculus with ease. So, at first I can’t understand why my son has a hard time dealing with math. The explanation given to me by his teacher is that “he is afraid of numbers” – just like some of us afraid of heights, afraid of spiders, afraid of water, afraid of being alone.
So the first thing I have to do is to remove that fear. I told him that what is important is to remember, at heart, the four fundamental operations of “My Dear Aunt Sally.” Also, he must note that math or numbers are constant things. What you heard or learned in elementary will be the same things that you will hear or learn in college. “Two plus two” is four – yesterday, today and ten-thousand years from now! But the president of the Philippines is different in 1940, and may be different tomorrow. If he knows the number by heart, then he knows math forever.
In his first letter to the early Christian communities, John specifically ask them to remain in God – “If what you heard from the beginning remains in you, then you will remain in the Son and in the Father.” And as true Christians, we must keep His name and His promises in our hearts, for God is the only true God – yesterday, today and ten-thousand years from now – even forever!
Almighty Father, I am with You forever. You are the Lord yesterday, today and until the end of time. Your teachings are righteous and true and shall forever guide me, so no one may deceive me and take me away from You. I am Yours and You are mine, forever.
Oh Lord, grant us peace this new year. May we forever receive the blessings from You as we await in joyful hope for Your second coming.
“My life remains in Him, forever
For He kindles my heart with joy everlasting.”
Let us go rejoicing to the house of the Lord.
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
INNER PEACE
John 14:27
“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you.”
----------------------------------------
In our modern times, the word “peace” is an overused or even, an overabused word. Well, it is not bad to talk about peace always since everyone yearns for it. We have seen Gandhi and the Dalai Lama espousing peace in their own territories, choosing death and living in exile in order to, one day, achieve peace. But we also have the warmongers of the first world countries, sending fears down our spines to justify wars. For they believe that war is a solution in achieving peace.
Lately, there has been really a lot of talk of and about “peace”. But I doubt people have even taken the time to define what they think “peace” is. After all, if you look up “peace” you are likely to find at least five, if not twenty-five different definitions of the word—everything from “agreements to end hostility” to “silence.” Attaining world peace, as some beauty pageant contestants would aspire for, has been a challenge before and still a challenge today.
For it should always start from each one of us. We cannot expect peace if we cannot give peace. Jesus has given us this peace – peace of mind, peace at heart, inner peace. Jesus Christ is our peace, and in his death and resurrection, he gives God's peace to our world. Because we have been gifted with God's peace in the risen Christ, we are called to our own peace and to the making of peace in our world. As disciples and as children of God it is our task to seek for ways in which to make the forgiveness, justice and mercy, and love of God visible in a world where violence and enmity are too often the norm. Make peace the norm, then share that with others.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, God of Peace, forgive us our indifference and stamp out the prejudices that lead to hatred. Fill us with the reconciling spirit of your presence. Help us bring about mutual affection and understanding between us. Grant us Your peace, forgiveness and blessings through the same Christ, our Lord.
Amen +
Making known… Your might… the glorious splendor of Your kingdom.
“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you.”
----------------------------------------
In our modern times, the word “peace” is an overused or even, an overabused word. Well, it is not bad to talk about peace always since everyone yearns for it. We have seen Gandhi and the Dalai Lama espousing peace in their own territories, choosing death and living in exile in order to, one day, achieve peace. But we also have the warmongers of the first world countries, sending fears down our spines to justify wars. For they believe that war is a solution in achieving peace.
Lately, there has been really a lot of talk of and about “peace”. But I doubt people have even taken the time to define what they think “peace” is. After all, if you look up “peace” you are likely to find at least five, if not twenty-five different definitions of the word—everything from “agreements to end hostility” to “silence.” Attaining world peace, as some beauty pageant contestants would aspire for, has been a challenge before and still a challenge today.
For it should always start from each one of us. We cannot expect peace if we cannot give peace. Jesus has given us this peace – peace of mind, peace at heart, inner peace. Jesus Christ is our peace, and in his death and resurrection, he gives God's peace to our world. Because we have been gifted with God's peace in the risen Christ, we are called to our own peace and to the making of peace in our world. As disciples and as children of God it is our task to seek for ways in which to make the forgiveness, justice and mercy, and love of God visible in a world where violence and enmity are too often the norm. Make peace the norm, then share that with others.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, God of Peace, forgive us our indifference and stamp out the prejudices that lead to hatred. Fill us with the reconciling spirit of your presence. Help us bring about mutual affection and understanding between us. Grant us Your peace, forgiveness and blessings through the same Christ, our Lord.
Amen +
Making known… Your might… the glorious splendor of Your kingdom.
Monday, May 11, 2009
ONLY ONE GOD
Acts 2:24
"Whoever loves Me will keep My word, and My Father will love him, and we will come to him and make our dwelling with him.
-----------------------------------------
Salvation is for everyone. It is not only for the Jews but for the Gentiles, at that time, as well. We know that God had set the priority. He had determined to call one nation, Israel, and raise them as a kingdom of priests and a holy nation. Through them, he would call all people on earth back to Him. Therefore, it is wrong to say that God has favorites.
There is a priority in God. But there is no favoritism in God. Romans 2:9-11 says, “There will be trouble and distress for every human being who does evil; first for the Jew, then for the Gentile; but glory, honor and peace for everyone who does good: first for the Jew, then for the Gentile, for God does not show favoritism.” God is not the God of Jews only. He is the God of Gentiles, too. Yes, of everyone, since there is only one God.
We must therefore, yearn and learn to be the children of God and continually live under God’s blessing and God’s protection. The Lord God accepts anyone who believes in Him, His Son the Holy Spirit. Therefore, we must live in this world as God’s children by acknowledging and fulfilling the purpose for which God made us and has called us through his Son Jesus Christ. Jesus had come to restore God’s children and renew their holy mission and purpose in God. Let us live as God’s children, and participate in the world salvation work of God. For His love is for everyone who believes and heed His words.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, You want us to give thanks for all things, to fear nothing except losing You and to lay all our cares on You, knowing that You care for us. Protect us from faithless fears and worldly anxieties, and grant that no clouds in this mortal life may hide from us the light of Your immortal love shown to us in Your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.
Amen +
Not to us, O Lord, but to your name give the glory.
"Whoever loves Me will keep My word, and My Father will love him, and we will come to him and make our dwelling with him.
-----------------------------------------
Salvation is for everyone. It is not only for the Jews but for the Gentiles, at that time, as well. We know that God had set the priority. He had determined to call one nation, Israel, and raise them as a kingdom of priests and a holy nation. Through them, he would call all people on earth back to Him. Therefore, it is wrong to say that God has favorites.
There is a priority in God. But there is no favoritism in God. Romans 2:9-11 says, “There will be trouble and distress for every human being who does evil; first for the Jew, then for the Gentile; but glory, honor and peace for everyone who does good: first for the Jew, then for the Gentile, for God does not show favoritism.” God is not the God of Jews only. He is the God of Gentiles, too. Yes, of everyone, since there is only one God.
We must therefore, yearn and learn to be the children of God and continually live under God’s blessing and God’s protection. The Lord God accepts anyone who believes in Him, His Son the Holy Spirit. Therefore, we must live in this world as God’s children by acknowledging and fulfilling the purpose for which God made us and has called us through his Son Jesus Christ. Jesus had come to restore God’s children and renew their holy mission and purpose in God. Let us live as God’s children, and participate in the world salvation work of God. For His love is for everyone who believes and heed His words.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, You want us to give thanks for all things, to fear nothing except losing You and to lay all our cares on You, knowing that You care for us. Protect us from faithless fears and worldly anxieties, and grant that no clouds in this mortal life may hide from us the light of Your immortal love shown to us in Your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.
Amen +
Not to us, O Lord, but to your name give the glory.
Sunday, May 10, 2009
THE LIFE
John 15:5
“I am the vine, you are the branches. Whoever remains in Me and I in him will bear much fruit, because without Me you can do nothing.”
-----------------------------------------
For nine months, in our mother’s womb, we are connected to her through the umbilical cord. The umbilical vein supplies the fetus with oxygenated, nutrient-rich blood from the placenta. It is our direct connection to life. Sometimes, it may connect improperly to the placenta or become knotted or compressed. Cord abnormalities can lead to problems during pregnancy or even death.
And when we are born, this physical connection is cut-off. But this doesn’t mean that we are separated now from our mothers. Rather, this means the start of our emotional connection with her – as she nourishes us, care for us and love us – away from the womb, but nearer to her heart. We may have been physically detached but we are emotionally attached to her from that day of our birth until the time we separate again.
We are connected in Jesus the same way. We may not be attached to Him via an umbilical cord, but emotionally, we are. We are dependent on Jesus for life, of course, but we are also dependent on Jesus for our lives to matter. If we remain attached to Jesus Christ, our lives will bear much fruit.
And without Him, we can do nothing! This is a very powerful statement. Everyday, we go about our lives without much conscious thought about Jesus. We go to work, we eat, we sleep. And through all those activities, God is with us, but we sometimes fail to thank Him for everything. Connect with Him and remain in Him for our own life and health. Let us live in a way that would make a difference to us and to others, remain connected to him in a meaningful way. He is the vine, the umbilical cord of our life. May we bear good fruits as we live our lives in total obedience to His will.
Almighty Father, we remain in You forever. Grant us a long and fruitful life. We pray that it be a life of goodness and peace, a life of blessing and sustenance and bodily vigor, a life free from sin and shame and reproach, a life of abundance and honor, a life in which the love of God and of our fellow men will ever be with us, a life in which all the desires of our hearts shall be fulfilled for our good.
I will praise You, Lord, in the assembly of Your people.
“I am the vine, you are the branches. Whoever remains in Me and I in him will bear much fruit, because without Me you can do nothing.”
-----------------------------------------
For nine months, in our mother’s womb, we are connected to her through the umbilical cord. The umbilical vein supplies the fetus with oxygenated, nutrient-rich blood from the placenta. It is our direct connection to life. Sometimes, it may connect improperly to the placenta or become knotted or compressed. Cord abnormalities can lead to problems during pregnancy or even death.
And when we are born, this physical connection is cut-off. But this doesn’t mean that we are separated now from our mothers. Rather, this means the start of our emotional connection with her – as she nourishes us, care for us and love us – away from the womb, but nearer to her heart. We may have been physically detached but we are emotionally attached to her from that day of our birth until the time we separate again.
We are connected in Jesus the same way. We may not be attached to Him via an umbilical cord, but emotionally, we are. We are dependent on Jesus for life, of course, but we are also dependent on Jesus for our lives to matter. If we remain attached to Jesus Christ, our lives will bear much fruit.
And without Him, we can do nothing! This is a very powerful statement. Everyday, we go about our lives without much conscious thought about Jesus. We go to work, we eat, we sleep. And through all those activities, God is with us, but we sometimes fail to thank Him for everything. Connect with Him and remain in Him for our own life and health. Let us live in a way that would make a difference to us and to others, remain connected to him in a meaningful way. He is the vine, the umbilical cord of our life. May we bear good fruits as we live our lives in total obedience to His will.
Almighty Father, we remain in You forever. Grant us a long and fruitful life. We pray that it be a life of goodness and peace, a life of blessing and sustenance and bodily vigor, a life free from sin and shame and reproach, a life of abundance and honor, a life in which the love of God and of our fellow men will ever be with us, a life in which all the desires of our hearts shall be fulfilled for our good.
I will praise You, Lord, in the assembly of Your people.
Saturday, May 9, 2009
THE TRUTH
John 14: 13-14
And whatever you ask in my name, I will do, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If you ask anything of me in my name, I will do it.
-------------------------------------
Do you ask? Why do you ask? When do you ask? What was the last thing you asked? Was it given to you? What are you asking for now? Do you think it will be given to you? Have you even asked in the first place.
We pray to ask for things or help we need. We often need or want things or help which may seem impossible to obtain. But knowing that God is always listening to us when we pray according to His will, we can be confident that we have a Mighty Helper to provide for what we need. This knowledge gives us total assurance of an ever present help in time of need. That is the truth – plain and simple.
WHY DO WE PRAY:
1. We pray because we love God. We spend time with God in prayer and communion because we love him. We desire to be with Him and to fellowship with Him in proportion to our love for Him.
2. We pray because we depend on God. God is our source. He is our life. Through prayer we receive the comfort, the strength and all the other resources that we need in .
3. We need to pray in order to resist temptation. "Watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation (Mt. 26:41)”. Through lack of prayer, we are weak, others are weaker and Satan gains the advantage in our lives.
4. We need to pray because it is necessary for men to invite God to act in salvation. God gave the earth to Adam and His descendants. By inviting God into our lives and into our hearts, multitudes can be saved that would otherwise be lost.
+ Let us pray
Almighty Father, Your promise give us hope. You renew your promises in our hearts as we await the goal of our faith, even the saving of our souls eternally with You. Father, when we contemplate these things, we know that no praise is too extravagant. With hearts filled with awe and rejoicing, we thank You for this life which is given to us. Amen +
All the ends of the earth have seen the salvation by our God.
And whatever you ask in my name, I will do, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If you ask anything of me in my name, I will do it.
-------------------------------------
Do you ask? Why do you ask? When do you ask? What was the last thing you asked? Was it given to you? What are you asking for now? Do you think it will be given to you? Have you even asked in the first place.
We pray to ask for things or help we need. We often need or want things or help which may seem impossible to obtain. But knowing that God is always listening to us when we pray according to His will, we can be confident that we have a Mighty Helper to provide for what we need. This knowledge gives us total assurance of an ever present help in time of need. That is the truth – plain and simple.
WHY DO WE PRAY:
1. We pray because we love God. We spend time with God in prayer and communion because we love him. We desire to be with Him and to fellowship with Him in proportion to our love for Him.
2. We pray because we depend on God. God is our source. He is our life. Through prayer we receive the comfort, the strength and all the other resources that we need in .
3. We need to pray in order to resist temptation. "Watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation (Mt. 26:41)”. Through lack of prayer, we are weak, others are weaker and Satan gains the advantage in our lives.
4. We need to pray because it is necessary for men to invite God to act in salvation. God gave the earth to Adam and His descendants. By inviting God into our lives and into our hearts, multitudes can be saved that would otherwise be lost.
+ Let us pray
Almighty Father, Your promise give us hope. You renew your promises in our hearts as we await the goal of our faith, even the saving of our souls eternally with You. Father, when we contemplate these things, we know that no praise is too extravagant. With hearts filled with awe and rejoicing, we thank You for this life which is given to us. Amen +
All the ends of the earth have seen the salvation by our God.
Friday, May 8, 2009
THE WAY
John 14: 1,3
Do not let your hearts be troubled. You have faith in God; have faith also in me… I will come back again and take you to myself, so that where I am you also may be.
-------------------------------------------
Whew… it has been a very stressful two weeks. I have to return home to be with my wife as we mourn the death of her beloved mother. Then came the news that a new flu virus strain (swine flu or H1N1) has been detected in Mexico and is now poised to spread in pandemic proportion. Still, I have to go back to Mexico for the project we are doing. And after two take-offs, two landings, inside a plane cabin for 15 hours and another 5 hours travelling by land, we made it safe and sound.
Though our minds are often fairly quickly convinced that the problem is manageable, our emotions generally continue to be troubled for some time after. Though we cannot escape troubles in this world, we should do our best to make our hearts as still as the depths of the sea. Because of our troubled hearts, we cannot enjoy the blessings that we receive, our health is affected, and our ability to work effectively is affected too. Christians with troubled hearts cannot experience the joy of the Lord, are poor testimonies, and poor workers for Him. I know, because I am guilty of it also.
We need to take God at His word. As Christians, God takes residence inside us and begins to reveal to us his plan for our lives. God has given us the user's manual of life - to read it, practice in our lives. If you're discontent, worried, anxious, bewildered, perplexed, confused, agitated, or otherwise in need of comfort, the reason is that you don't trust Him like you should. If you really trust Christ, what do you have to worry about?
"Let not your heart be troubled". If there is a single central message in Jesus' words, it is that the basis of comfort is simple, trusting faith.
Almighty Father, I praise Your name and I shout out with joy for Your presence in my life. We are not helpless, we are certainly not weak, for we are Your children. Turn our hearts toward worship, praise, and thanksgiving.
“Troubled, disappointed, worried, confused hearts?
In You alone, in Your love, we always have a brand new start.”
Serve the LORD with fear, and rejoice before Him; with trembling rejoice.
Do not let your hearts be troubled. You have faith in God; have faith also in me… I will come back again and take you to myself, so that where I am you also may be.
-------------------------------------------
Whew… it has been a very stressful two weeks. I have to return home to be with my wife as we mourn the death of her beloved mother. Then came the news that a new flu virus strain (swine flu or H1N1) has been detected in Mexico and is now poised to spread in pandemic proportion. Still, I have to go back to Mexico for the project we are doing. And after two take-offs, two landings, inside a plane cabin for 15 hours and another 5 hours travelling by land, we made it safe and sound.
Though our minds are often fairly quickly convinced that the problem is manageable, our emotions generally continue to be troubled for some time after. Though we cannot escape troubles in this world, we should do our best to make our hearts as still as the depths of the sea. Because of our troubled hearts, we cannot enjoy the blessings that we receive, our health is affected, and our ability to work effectively is affected too. Christians with troubled hearts cannot experience the joy of the Lord, are poor testimonies, and poor workers for Him. I know, because I am guilty of it also.
We need to take God at His word. As Christians, God takes residence inside us and begins to reveal to us his plan for our lives. God has given us the user's manual of life - to read it, practice in our lives. If you're discontent, worried, anxious, bewildered, perplexed, confused, agitated, or otherwise in need of comfort, the reason is that you don't trust Him like you should. If you really trust Christ, what do you have to worry about?
"Let not your heart be troubled". If there is a single central message in Jesus' words, it is that the basis of comfort is simple, trusting faith.
Almighty Father, I praise Your name and I shout out with joy for Your presence in my life. We are not helpless, we are certainly not weak, for we are Your children. Turn our hearts toward worship, praise, and thanksgiving.
“Troubled, disappointed, worried, confused hearts?
In You alone, in Your love, we always have a brand new start.”
Serve the LORD with fear, and rejoice before Him; with trembling rejoice.
Thursday, May 7, 2009
GROW IN CHRIST
John 17:18
“As you sent me into the world, so I sent them into the world.”
-----------------------------------------
The life of the Lord, Jesus Christ, even before He was born in this world, is a perfect example of discipleship. Jesus shows us the way to the Father. Up to the end, He was very obedient to the Father, giving up his life so we may live. His Mother, Mary, hears the Word of God and it bears fruit in her very flesh, as the Woman of Faith. As the handmaid of the Lord, she accepted everything and became the Mother of All Nations.
His Father, Joseph, accepted Mary and the will of God and became the strength and wisdom for Jesus as He grew up. Like new Christs, the Twelve and all the followers of Jesus in history reveal something of what it means to be a disciple. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, they were able to share the Good News to the gentiles and the Jews. Most of them died for their Christian faith, but this did not deter the growth of Christianity, rather, it became the fuel that kept the faith burning in the hearts of men up to now.
Now, we are being sent into the world to continue what Jesus, Mary, Joseph, the Twelve Disciples and the early Christian Saints has started. As St. Teresa of Avila reminds us - “Christ has no body now but yours, no hands but yours, no feet but yours. Yours are the eyes through which Christ’s compassion must look out on the world. Yours are the feet with which He is to go about doing good. Yours are the hands with which He is to bless us now.”
We are all called to a life of Discipleship. The Church is a sacrament of Christ and we are called to be “sacramental people”. The Holy Spirit inspires and moves us to: 1) Live as Jesus lived, 2) Serve as Jesus served, 3) Love as Jesus loved. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven.
Almighty Father, I empty myself of everything that is me. Please fill me with your Holy Spirit and let Christ live through me. Heal my broken nature Father. God give me the wisdom to discern Your will and the strength to execute it. Let me be Your feet, Your hands, Your eyes and Your heart today, so others may feel and see You through me. Amen +
…through all generations my mouth shall proclaim Your faithfulness.
“As you sent me into the world, so I sent them into the world.”
-----------------------------------------
The life of the Lord, Jesus Christ, even before He was born in this world, is a perfect example of discipleship. Jesus shows us the way to the Father. Up to the end, He was very obedient to the Father, giving up his life so we may live. His Mother, Mary, hears the Word of God and it bears fruit in her very flesh, as the Woman of Faith. As the handmaid of the Lord, she accepted everything and became the Mother of All Nations.
His Father, Joseph, accepted Mary and the will of God and became the strength and wisdom for Jesus as He grew up. Like new Christs, the Twelve and all the followers of Jesus in history reveal something of what it means to be a disciple. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, they were able to share the Good News to the gentiles and the Jews. Most of them died for their Christian faith, but this did not deter the growth of Christianity, rather, it became the fuel that kept the faith burning in the hearts of men up to now.
Now, we are being sent into the world to continue what Jesus, Mary, Joseph, the Twelve Disciples and the early Christian Saints has started. As St. Teresa of Avila reminds us - “Christ has no body now but yours, no hands but yours, no feet but yours. Yours are the eyes through which Christ’s compassion must look out on the world. Yours are the feet with which He is to go about doing good. Yours are the hands with which He is to bless us now.”
We are all called to a life of Discipleship. The Church is a sacrament of Christ and we are called to be “sacramental people”. The Holy Spirit inspires and moves us to: 1) Live as Jesus lived, 2) Serve as Jesus served, 3) Love as Jesus loved. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven.
Almighty Father, I empty myself of everything that is me. Please fill me with your Holy Spirit and let Christ live through me. Heal my broken nature Father. God give me the wisdom to discern Your will and the strength to execute it. Let me be Your feet, Your hands, Your eyes and Your heart today, so others may feel and see You through me. Amen +
…through all generations my mouth shall proclaim Your faithfulness.
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
WALK IN CHRIST
John 12:46
“I came into the world as light, so that everyone who believes in me might not remain in darkness.”
----------------------------------------------
We hate brownouts. I still remember during the early 1990’s when we are subjected to brownouts for about 4-5 hours per day. In our area, we experience the brownouts at night. Therefore, when it happened, the whole area will become pitch black – really, really dark. Then, spot of lights will start to be seen as people started to light up their candles, or their emergency lights. The streets will again be illuminated by the flickering lights as people start coming out of their houses to breathe the fresh air while waiting for the power to come back again.
In our spiritual lives, we frequently experience brownouts. We experience this spiritual darkness. As such, we are totally blinded by our sins and totally ignored what the Lord wills for us to do. On one level, darkness is promoted by spiritual forces under the leadership of Satan. On a human level, darkness is not only the absence of knowledge, but a personal and active opposition to the rule and truth of God. Paul taught that those who do not believe in Christ are those whose minds have been blinded by Satan (II Corinthians 4:3-6). He lies and twists the Word of God to prevent people from coming to the knowledge of the truth (John 8:44).
Remove our spiritual blindness and seek to see the Lord again. Pray for God to enlighten us by the work of His Spirit, to give us a hunger for His Word and His ways. Seek that Spiritual enlightenment - Jesus is the light of the world, He is our God-given source of spiritual enlightenment. But we must believe in the light. Jesus said: "While you have the light, believe in the light, that you may become sons of light" (John 12:36). Finally, we can live a life of faith in our God, who is greater than all and reaches out to all people to offer redemption. By the grace of God, through the blood of Jesus Christ and the love of the Spirit, you can come to the light, become a child of God, and walk in the light of the gospel.
Almighty Father, help us to see You. Heal us of our spiritual blindness and enlighten our path so we can forever obey Your will. We want to see You, Oh Lord, and live our lives in Your love forever. We believe in You for You are the light, taking out the brownout in our lives.
O God, let all the nations praise you!
“I came into the world as light, so that everyone who believes in me might not remain in darkness.”
----------------------------------------------
We hate brownouts. I still remember during the early 1990’s when we are subjected to brownouts for about 4-5 hours per day. In our area, we experience the brownouts at night. Therefore, when it happened, the whole area will become pitch black – really, really dark. Then, spot of lights will start to be seen as people started to light up their candles, or their emergency lights. The streets will again be illuminated by the flickering lights as people start coming out of their houses to breathe the fresh air while waiting for the power to come back again.
In our spiritual lives, we frequently experience brownouts. We experience this spiritual darkness. As such, we are totally blinded by our sins and totally ignored what the Lord wills for us to do. On one level, darkness is promoted by spiritual forces under the leadership of Satan. On a human level, darkness is not only the absence of knowledge, but a personal and active opposition to the rule and truth of God. Paul taught that those who do not believe in Christ are those whose minds have been blinded by Satan (II Corinthians 4:3-6). He lies and twists the Word of God to prevent people from coming to the knowledge of the truth (John 8:44).
Remove our spiritual blindness and seek to see the Lord again. Pray for God to enlighten us by the work of His Spirit, to give us a hunger for His Word and His ways. Seek that Spiritual enlightenment - Jesus is the light of the world, He is our God-given source of spiritual enlightenment. But we must believe in the light. Jesus said: "While you have the light, believe in the light, that you may become sons of light" (John 12:36). Finally, we can live a life of faith in our God, who is greater than all and reaches out to all people to offer redemption. By the grace of God, through the blood of Jesus Christ and the love of the Spirit, you can come to the light, become a child of God, and walk in the light of the gospel.
Almighty Father, help us to see You. Heal us of our spiritual blindness and enlighten our path so we can forever obey Your will. We want to see You, Oh Lord, and live our lives in Your love forever. We believe in You for You are the light, taking out the brownout in our lives.
O God, let all the nations praise you!
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
CALLED IN CHRIST
Acts 11:26
…and it was in Antioch that the disciples were first called Christians.
---------------------------------------------
It was swift. It was fast. It was furious. Pacquiao may have wielded the most powerful punch among boxers today, but he has another “tool” in his arsenal. Before and after his every fight, he would commune with God, kneeling in prayer knowing fully that it is His will, not his, that would prevail in the end. And his followers even grew more and more, because of his humility and God-fearing attitude. For he is a source of joy and honor, especially for us Filipinos.
To this day, the followers of Jesus are called Christians. Actually, it started way back in Antioch, which is now a part of Turkey. And being a Christian should be a source of joy and honor for us. However, being a Christian must involve living a life dedicated and committed to Jesus. It is not just a tag or a name. It means total obedience to the living Lord. We need to PERSEVERE in our faith, knowing that one day we will receive our reward. This perseverance also includes encouraging fellow-Christians to live that life of commitment.
We are Christians. And the world shall recognize us as the true disciples of Jesus -- not just by what we say or what we believe or what we do or even the soundness of our theology, but by our love. Something has fundamentally changed within us. Being Christians is not a walk in the park. Our Lord has shown us that being Christians means living our life for others. And as Christians, we should keep the Lord in our hearts forever. For without “CHRIST”, what is left is “IAN” or I Am Nothing!
Almighty Father, You renew Your promises in our hearts as we await the goal of our faith, even the saving of our souls eternally with you. Father, when we contemplate these things, we know that no praise is too extravagant. With hearts filled with awe and rejoicing, we thank You for his life which is given to us.
“We are one in the Spirit, we are one in the Lord
And they'll know we are Christians by our love, by our love
They will know we are Christians by our love”.
All you nations, praise the Lord.
…and it was in Antioch that the disciples were first called Christians.
---------------------------------------------
It was swift. It was fast. It was furious. Pacquiao may have wielded the most powerful punch among boxers today, but he has another “tool” in his arsenal. Before and after his every fight, he would commune with God, kneeling in prayer knowing fully that it is His will, not his, that would prevail in the end. And his followers even grew more and more, because of his humility and God-fearing attitude. For he is a source of joy and honor, especially for us Filipinos.
To this day, the followers of Jesus are called Christians. Actually, it started way back in Antioch, which is now a part of Turkey. And being a Christian should be a source of joy and honor for us. However, being a Christian must involve living a life dedicated and committed to Jesus. It is not just a tag or a name. It means total obedience to the living Lord. We need to PERSEVERE in our faith, knowing that one day we will receive our reward. This perseverance also includes encouraging fellow-Christians to live that life of commitment.
We are Christians. And the world shall recognize us as the true disciples of Jesus -- not just by what we say or what we believe or what we do or even the soundness of our theology, but by our love. Something has fundamentally changed within us. Being Christians is not a walk in the park. Our Lord has shown us that being Christians means living our life for others. And as Christians, we should keep the Lord in our hearts forever. For without “CHRIST”, what is left is “IAN” or I Am Nothing!
Almighty Father, You renew Your promises in our hearts as we await the goal of our faith, even the saving of our souls eternally with you. Father, when we contemplate these things, we know that no praise is too extravagant. With hearts filled with awe and rejoicing, we thank You for his life which is given to us.
“We are one in the Spirit, we are one in the Lord
And they'll know we are Christians by our love, by our love
They will know we are Christians by our love”.
All you nations, praise the Lord.
Monday, May 4, 2009
SAFE IN CHRIST
John 10:9
“I am the gate. Whoever enters through me will be saved, and will come in and go out and find pasture”.
------------------------------------------
I read somewhere in the internet the characteristics of a common Filipino house. Some of them I mention below:
1. You own a Karaoke system.
2. You own a piano that no one ever plays.
3. Your house has too many "burloloys" (decorations/trimmings).
4. You have two or three pairs of "tsinelas" (slippers) on your doorstep
5. Your house has an ornate wrought iron gate in front of it.
Really true. Especially the last one. I still remember the day when my father “invested” on putting up wooden fence with wooden gate around our house frontage. They decided to put it there to keep away strangers from just knocking on the front door. With the fence, they would just call-out from the outside. It was a protection, so no one can just barge in to the house. It was a protection, so whoever inside the house will be safe.
Similarly, Jesus is offering Himself to be the gate where everyone can enter so we can find and experience green pasture. Jesus is the gate and only through Him will we enter Heaven. Jesus is the gate who gives those who pass in and out through it enough identity to feel secure and yet enough freedom to remain open to others, as God is open to others. Just like a shepherd who calls on his flock to finally enter the fenced sheepfold so they may be safe from harm, Jesus is also calling us to enter Him. Christ our good shepherd tells us where we should direct our steps. We just need to listen for his voice. And the best way to hear his soft yet firm voice is by being faithful to our conscience, the divine voice within us.
Enter through Him. The Lord awaits us as He prepares a greener pasture.
Almighty Father, we heard Your call and we follow Your voice for we totally trust You. Thank You for the gift of salvation as we enter Heaven through Your Son, Jesus Christ.
“Your tender voice we hear, as we come and follow You;
We know You prepared a better place for us, out of love so true.”
Athirst is my soul for the living God.
“I am the gate. Whoever enters through me will be saved, and will come in and go out and find pasture”.
------------------------------------------
I read somewhere in the internet the characteristics of a common Filipino house. Some of them I mention below:
1. You own a Karaoke system.
2. You own a piano that no one ever plays.
3. Your house has too many "burloloys" (decorations/trimmings).
4. You have two or three pairs of "tsinelas" (slippers) on your doorstep
5. Your house has an ornate wrought iron gate in front of it.
Really true. Especially the last one. I still remember the day when my father “invested” on putting up wooden fence with wooden gate around our house frontage. They decided to put it there to keep away strangers from just knocking on the front door. With the fence, they would just call-out from the outside. It was a protection, so no one can just barge in to the house. It was a protection, so whoever inside the house will be safe.
Similarly, Jesus is offering Himself to be the gate where everyone can enter so we can find and experience green pasture. Jesus is the gate and only through Him will we enter Heaven. Jesus is the gate who gives those who pass in and out through it enough identity to feel secure and yet enough freedom to remain open to others, as God is open to others. Just like a shepherd who calls on his flock to finally enter the fenced sheepfold so they may be safe from harm, Jesus is also calling us to enter Him. Christ our good shepherd tells us where we should direct our steps. We just need to listen for his voice. And the best way to hear his soft yet firm voice is by being faithful to our conscience, the divine voice within us.
Enter through Him. The Lord awaits us as He prepares a greener pasture.
Almighty Father, we heard Your call and we follow Your voice for we totally trust You. Thank You for the gift of salvation as we enter Heaven through Your Son, Jesus Christ.
“Your tender voice we hear, as we come and follow You;
We know You prepared a better place for us, out of love so true.”
Athirst is my soul for the living God.
Sunday, May 3, 2009
BE WITH CHRIST
John 10:11
“I am the good shepherd. A good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.”
------------------------------------------
In present times, maybe as in old, a dog is called man’s best friend. I still remember my dog, Tootsie, who would wag his tail when she hears my voice. Moreover, she would bark once she hears uncommon sounds or voice. She knows how and when to protect herself and of course, us.
A sheep is no different from a dog. The sheep follows his master’s voice, “because they recognize his voice. But they will not follow a stranger; they will run away from him, because they do not recognize the voice of strangers”. And as such, we all are sheeps and Jesus is our good shepherd. Like a good shepherd, he “lays down his life for the sheep”. He came to protect us by giving his life for us. He did this so that we might enjoy life to its fullest and have the hope of living forever.
When we got lost, He would simply call us to return back to the sheepfold. Some of us may not hear Him the first time. But He would constantly call us, knowing that one day, we would heed that call. And to hear that call, use not our ears, but our hearts. He knocks at our hearts, so we may feel His love and know Him more. None of us is good enough to merit God's favor; only Jesus Christ is. We, then, had better make our way to Him! And this is precisely what He invites us to do – “That one who believingly abandons himself to me and to my care, I will take him and keep him forever”.
Jesus' claim to be the "Good Shepherd" is a well-supported one. He proved it very well. He died for His sheeps so we may be saved. And for those of us who are trusting in Him for salvation, He continues to prove it every day with satisfying tokens of His love.
Almighty Father, give me new strength from the courage of Christ, our Savior and Redeemer. He is our Good Shepherd. Let me hear the sound of His voice, lead my steps in the path He has shown, that I may receive His help and enjoy the light of Your presence forever.
“Your goodness fails me never;
Good Shepherd, may I sing Your praise
Within Your house forever.”
It is better to take refuge in the LORD than to trust in man.
“I am the good shepherd. A good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.”
------------------------------------------
In present times, maybe as in old, a dog is called man’s best friend. I still remember my dog, Tootsie, who would wag his tail when she hears my voice. Moreover, she would bark once she hears uncommon sounds or voice. She knows how and when to protect herself and of course, us.
A sheep is no different from a dog. The sheep follows his master’s voice, “because they recognize his voice. But they will not follow a stranger; they will run away from him, because they do not recognize the voice of strangers”. And as such, we all are sheeps and Jesus is our good shepherd. Like a good shepherd, he “lays down his life for the sheep”. He came to protect us by giving his life for us. He did this so that we might enjoy life to its fullest and have the hope of living forever.
When we got lost, He would simply call us to return back to the sheepfold. Some of us may not hear Him the first time. But He would constantly call us, knowing that one day, we would heed that call. And to hear that call, use not our ears, but our hearts. He knocks at our hearts, so we may feel His love and know Him more. None of us is good enough to merit God's favor; only Jesus Christ is. We, then, had better make our way to Him! And this is precisely what He invites us to do – “That one who believingly abandons himself to me and to my care, I will take him and keep him forever”.
Jesus' claim to be the "Good Shepherd" is a well-supported one. He proved it very well. He died for His sheeps so we may be saved. And for those of us who are trusting in Him for salvation, He continues to prove it every day with satisfying tokens of His love.
Almighty Father, give me new strength from the courage of Christ, our Savior and Redeemer. He is our Good Shepherd. Let me hear the sound of His voice, lead my steps in the path He has shown, that I may receive His help and enjoy the light of Your presence forever.
“Your goodness fails me never;
Good Shepherd, may I sing Your praise
Within Your house forever.”
It is better to take refuge in the LORD than to trust in man.
Saturday, May 2, 2009
GO WITH CHRIST
John 6:68-69
Master, to whom shall we go? We have come to believe and are convinced that you are the Holy One of God.
--------------------------------------------
Something happened and we need money. We looked at our savings and it is not enough. You asked, “to whom shall I go?” You need to start a new business but lots of permits and licenses are needed to be approved. You asked, “to whom shall I go?” You have problems stacking-up over you and you do not know anymore what to do. You asked, “to whom shall I go?”
The question, "To whom shall we go?" suggests that we do need someone to whom we may go – most of the time, for help or to ask for favor. In the gospel today, many of Jesus’ disciples “returned to their former way of life
and no longer walked with him”. They thought joining Jesus is fun. They thought joining Jesus would mean having food on the table always. Most of the multitudes did not see in Jesus what they wanted, what they desired. They only saw what they could get out of following Him.
Jesus did not come to this earth to make it a better place to live, to offer fun and recreation to mankind. He did not die upon that cruel cross in order for man to have a good time. He died to save us. Where else will we find one such as HIM? Here is one who can lift us above the things of the world. Here is one who can lift us through bad surroundings, through failures, through difficulties, through trials. Standing alone we may not be able to succeed, but with Jesus by our side, we can.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, only You can satisfy our needs. Only to you shall we go. For your Spirit gives life; the words You have spoken heals us. We accept Your invitation of being in Your love forever.
Amen +
The cup of salvation I will take up… (&) call upon the name of the LORD
Master, to whom shall we go? We have come to believe and are convinced that you are the Holy One of God.
--------------------------------------------
Something happened and we need money. We looked at our savings and it is not enough. You asked, “to whom shall I go?” You need to start a new business but lots of permits and licenses are needed to be approved. You asked, “to whom shall I go?” You have problems stacking-up over you and you do not know anymore what to do. You asked, “to whom shall I go?”
The question, "To whom shall we go?" suggests that we do need someone to whom we may go – most of the time, for help or to ask for favor. In the gospel today, many of Jesus’ disciples “returned to their former way of life
and no longer walked with him”. They thought joining Jesus is fun. They thought joining Jesus would mean having food on the table always. Most of the multitudes did not see in Jesus what they wanted, what they desired. They only saw what they could get out of following Him.
Jesus did not come to this earth to make it a better place to live, to offer fun and recreation to mankind. He did not die upon that cruel cross in order for man to have a good time. He died to save us. Where else will we find one such as HIM? Here is one who can lift us above the things of the world. Here is one who can lift us through bad surroundings, through failures, through difficulties, through trials. Standing alone we may not be able to succeed, but with Jesus by our side, we can.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, only You can satisfy our needs. Only to you shall we go. For your Spirit gives life; the words You have spoken heals us. We accept Your invitation of being in Your love forever.
Amen +
The cup of salvation I will take up… (&) call upon the name of the LORD
Friday, May 1, 2009
ONE WITH CHRIST
John 6:54
“Whoever eats my Flesh and drinks my Blood has eternal life, and I will raise him on the last day.”
----------------------------------------
I was wearing all white – polo, pants and even shoes. I have a rose pinned at my left breast. I may have smelled good at that time, but I don’t really remember. No, it is not my graduation. It was my First Communion. I may have been excited. I may have felt very proud for having dressed in all-white. I didn’t remember anymore. But one thing is for sure – I felt something special within me for I have received, for the first time, the body and blood of the Lord Jesus Christ. And I have continued to be doing so – and for the rest of my life – as I become one with Christ and believe and share in His eternal life.
The Sacrament of Holy Eucharist involves a sacramental covenant, an exchange of persons. When Jesus gives His body, blood, soul and divinity to us, we give our body, blood, soul and humanity to Him. We give ourselves to Jesus by preparing for heaven, by truly loving God with all our heart and soul and mind and strength, and by truly loving one another.
Let us pray the Prayer of St. Faustina before the Eucharist +
O Lord Jesus Christ, let my greatest delight be to see You loved and Your praise and glory proclaimed, especially the honor of Your mercy. Oh Lord Jesus Chirst, let me glorify Your goodness and mercy to the last moment of my life, with every drop of my blood and every beat of my heart.
Would that I be transformed into a hymn of adoration of You. When I find myself on my deathbed, may the last beat of my heart be a loving hymn glorifying Your unfathomable mercy. Amen +
“Soul of Christ, sanctify me
Body of Christ, save me
Water from the side of Christ, wash me
Passion of Christ, give me strength.”
For steadfast is his kindness toward us, and the fidelity of the LORD endures forever.
“Whoever eats my Flesh and drinks my Blood has eternal life, and I will raise him on the last day.”
----------------------------------------
I was wearing all white – polo, pants and even shoes. I have a rose pinned at my left breast. I may have smelled good at that time, but I don’t really remember. No, it is not my graduation. It was my First Communion. I may have been excited. I may have felt very proud for having dressed in all-white. I didn’t remember anymore. But one thing is for sure – I felt something special within me for I have received, for the first time, the body and blood of the Lord Jesus Christ. And I have continued to be doing so – and for the rest of my life – as I become one with Christ and believe and share in His eternal life.
The Sacrament of Holy Eucharist involves a sacramental covenant, an exchange of persons. When Jesus gives His body, blood, soul and divinity to us, we give our body, blood, soul and humanity to Him. We give ourselves to Jesus by preparing for heaven, by truly loving God with all our heart and soul and mind and strength, and by truly loving one another.
Let us pray the Prayer of St. Faustina before the Eucharist +
O Lord Jesus Christ, let my greatest delight be to see You loved and Your praise and glory proclaimed, especially the honor of Your mercy. Oh Lord Jesus Chirst, let me glorify Your goodness and mercy to the last moment of my life, with every drop of my blood and every beat of my heart.
Would that I be transformed into a hymn of adoration of You. When I find myself on my deathbed, may the last beat of my heart be a loving hymn glorifying Your unfathomable mercy. Amen +
“Soul of Christ, sanctify me
Body of Christ, save me
Water from the side of Christ, wash me
Passion of Christ, give me strength.”
For steadfast is his kindness toward us, and the fidelity of the LORD endures forever.
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