Luke 4:21
“Today this Scripture passage is fulfilled in your hearing.”
-----------------------------------------
The whole attitude of faith in God is one of trusting when things make little or no sense to our own way of thinking. As human beings, we have a certain kind of understanding about how the world should work. Our understanding comes from the ways we happen to perceive things, and from the experiences we have. It could also be based on things that we learned from other people or by reading books that were written by men.
But only God knows how all things truly work together. As we understand the universe, such things are impossible. But nothing is impossible with God, who knows all things and gives accurate meaning and reality to all of life. The perspective that God has is superior to our own.
When God says that a thing is true, then we can and should believe it, no matter how impossible or strange it might seem to us. When God calls us to a certain way of life and to a certain path of faith, we need to listen to that call and obey the Lord — even if it makes little or no sense at all to our rational minds.
Because God knows what is real and true about human nature, about life on earth, and about eternity itself. The Bible, in many places, encourages us to believe God, to walk by faith, to be true to whatever God is saying — even when the whole world seems to be opposing God's message. The Bible makes it clear that God's ways and thoughts are better than ours. In fact, it says that very thing for it is the wisdom of God, inspired by God for us to learn, understand, appreciate and share with others.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, I know I have a choice to make, and I take the path of faith instead of the path of unbelief. I commit my ways to You and put my trust in You for everything. Teach and give me sound wisdom and good instruction for my life so I may be happier and greatly blessed. For your power is truly great and my life is for You alone.
Amen +
The Lord comes to judge the earth.
Monday, August 31, 2009
Sunday, August 30, 2009
HIS PURITY
Mark 7:15
Nothing that enters one from outside can defile that person; but the things that come out from within are what defile.
-------------------------------------------
When was the last time an evil word came out of your mouth – maybe yesterday or maybe, just this morning. Have you really thought of the repercussions that those evil words have caused to the one who heard it? He may now be full of grief because of your careless words. Why not approach that person and seek his forgiveness? Let the goodness in your heart pour out through your mouth, blessing others so we may all live in harmony.
Devastating criticism, gossip, intrigue and machination are denounced in the Scriptures as the greatest sins after idolatry, because they are all violence against our brother, the image of God. They are ways of sinning with the tongue. The tongue has great power to set ablaze. It can enflame either false accusations or truthful encouragement, prideful bombast or humble thanksgiving, bitter hatred or forgiving mercy.
What fills the heart is spoken by the tongue: from a good heart, good words are born, and no gossip stems from it against any person. If we let our speech be molded according to the pattern of Sacred Scripture, then we will not let ourselves become like a withered tree with bad fruit, but rather like a healthy tree bearing good fruit for the uplifting of the Body of Christ.
“Be filled with the Spirit, addressing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody to the Lord with all your heart always and for everything giving thanks in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ to God the Father” (Eph. 5:18-20)
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, teach us not return evil for evil or insult for insult. We should return a blessing instead. This we have been called to do, that we may receive a blessing for our inheritance. We want to enter into life and see prosperous days. Teach us to keep our tongue from evil and our lips from uttering deceit. My soul proclaims the Your greatness and my Spirit rejoices in Jesus Christ, my Savior. Amen +
One who does justice will live in the presence of the Lord.
Nothing that enters one from outside can defile that person; but the things that come out from within are what defile.
-------------------------------------------
When was the last time an evil word came out of your mouth – maybe yesterday or maybe, just this morning. Have you really thought of the repercussions that those evil words have caused to the one who heard it? He may now be full of grief because of your careless words. Why not approach that person and seek his forgiveness? Let the goodness in your heart pour out through your mouth, blessing others so we may all live in harmony.
Devastating criticism, gossip, intrigue and machination are denounced in the Scriptures as the greatest sins after idolatry, because they are all violence against our brother, the image of God. They are ways of sinning with the tongue. The tongue has great power to set ablaze. It can enflame either false accusations or truthful encouragement, prideful bombast or humble thanksgiving, bitter hatred or forgiving mercy.
What fills the heart is spoken by the tongue: from a good heart, good words are born, and no gossip stems from it against any person. If we let our speech be molded according to the pattern of Sacred Scripture, then we will not let ourselves become like a withered tree with bad fruit, but rather like a healthy tree bearing good fruit for the uplifting of the Body of Christ.
“Be filled with the Spirit, addressing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody to the Lord with all your heart always and for everything giving thanks in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ to God the Father” (Eph. 5:18-20)
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, teach us not return evil for evil or insult for insult. We should return a blessing instead. This we have been called to do, that we may receive a blessing for our inheritance. We want to enter into life and see prosperous days. Teach us to keep our tongue from evil and our lips from uttering deceit. My soul proclaims the Your greatness and my Spirit rejoices in Jesus Christ, my Savior. Amen +
One who does justice will live in the presence of the Lord.
Saturday, August 29, 2009
HIS JUSTICE
Psalms 98:9
He will rule the world with justice and the peoples with equity.
-------------------------------------------
I have always thought life is unfair.
I have been faithful to my wife for 13 years, yet, here is an actor who has a number of mistresses and children out of marriage. But he is by far, richer than me with all those big houses, money and cars. I have been working for 15 years now, and I can say been generally honest in my dealings with my company and suppliers. Yet, here is a politician known to have amassed great fortune from graft and corruption, but he is still free, rich and well-loved.
As a child, I would complain because my mother would always ask me to run errands, and point to my brother saying, “It’s supposed to be his turn!”
So many cases and situations in life, I shout “NOT FAIR!” Until I realize that isn’t this the same thinking that Cain has? He thought that God always favor Abel, and out of envy, he allowed sin to enter and killed his brother.
From this, we shall realize further the basic truth. We are not the true judge of what is fair and what is unfair, because our concept of fairness is tainted by envy and selfishness – it centers on ourselves and what we believe ought to be. But God has His plans and purposes. And believe you me, those are fair and for the goodness of all.
The Father is a just and faithful God. He always look at our hearts, for He is the only One who can really judge the hearts of men. We may perceive others to be worthy of His wrath or even hell, but He is the only one who knows what should be done.
Life may never really look fair to us, but His grace is much bigger than we have sometimes allowed ourselves to believe.
Let us pray +
Lord God, Your work is perfect, Your ways are justice, You are God of truth and without iniquity. And in all of these, we only trust in You. Amen +
The Lord comes to rule the earth with justice.
He will rule the world with justice and the peoples with equity.
-------------------------------------------
I have always thought life is unfair.
I have been faithful to my wife for 13 years, yet, here is an actor who has a number of mistresses and children out of marriage. But he is by far, richer than me with all those big houses, money and cars. I have been working for 15 years now, and I can say been generally honest in my dealings with my company and suppliers. Yet, here is a politician known to have amassed great fortune from graft and corruption, but he is still free, rich and well-loved.
As a child, I would complain because my mother would always ask me to run errands, and point to my brother saying, “It’s supposed to be his turn!”
So many cases and situations in life, I shout “NOT FAIR!” Until I realize that isn’t this the same thinking that Cain has? He thought that God always favor Abel, and out of envy, he allowed sin to enter and killed his brother.
From this, we shall realize further the basic truth. We are not the true judge of what is fair and what is unfair, because our concept of fairness is tainted by envy and selfishness – it centers on ourselves and what we believe ought to be. But God has His plans and purposes. And believe you me, those are fair and for the goodness of all.
The Father is a just and faithful God. He always look at our hearts, for He is the only One who can really judge the hearts of men. We may perceive others to be worthy of His wrath or even hell, but He is the only one who knows what should be done.
Life may never really look fair to us, but His grace is much bigger than we have sometimes allowed ourselves to believe.
Let us pray +
Lord God, Your work is perfect, Your ways are justice, You are God of truth and without iniquity. And in all of these, we only trust in You. Amen +
The Lord comes to rule the earth with justice.
Friday, August 28, 2009
HIS MORALITY
1 Thessalonians 4:3
This is the will of God, your holiness: that you refrain from immorality…
--------------------------------------------
We all live in an immoral world. Mass media like TV, movies and billboards are now filled with contents that would make us think, and eventually perform immoral acts. No wonder the news today is filled with stories about adultery, murder, and robbery of all nature. And the lack, or the loss, of belief and faith in God could lead to even more immorality among the generations to come.
A life of personal holiness is not easy. But it is important – both for us, Christians, and for those we would encounter and for those whose lives we might someday touch. Isn’t it awkward for us to tell our brothers to live a holy life and yet we, ourselves, are wallowing in sins of adultery and covetousness.
A life of personal morality is not easy. Even the best and the brightest Christian leaders, pastors and priests often fall prey to the attacks of Satan. And when that happens, precious lives are left in ruin, promising ministries are destroyed and priceless future opportunities for sharing God's love are lost. The cost is simply too high. But we must not give up and just tell ourselves that this the way it is. For it is not!
There is only one course for us to take – stay very close to our Lord. Admit to Him our weaknesses and surrender to Him our fear ... and then flee from all temptations. Flee every form of evil, and take ourselves out of harm's way. Read the bible and fellowship with one another. Not giving Satan any opportunity to put our lives to waste again.
And pray. We really do need to pray for one another.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, bless every home to again become a sanctuary and in every household will be rekindled the flame of faith to teach patience in adversity and moderationin prosperity and to promote order, peace and harmony in all things. Amen +
Rejoice in the Lord, you just!
This is the will of God, your holiness: that you refrain from immorality…
--------------------------------------------
We all live in an immoral world. Mass media like TV, movies and billboards are now filled with contents that would make us think, and eventually perform immoral acts. No wonder the news today is filled with stories about adultery, murder, and robbery of all nature. And the lack, or the loss, of belief and faith in God could lead to even more immorality among the generations to come.
A life of personal holiness is not easy. But it is important – both for us, Christians, and for those we would encounter and for those whose lives we might someday touch. Isn’t it awkward for us to tell our brothers to live a holy life and yet we, ourselves, are wallowing in sins of adultery and covetousness.
A life of personal morality is not easy. Even the best and the brightest Christian leaders, pastors and priests often fall prey to the attacks of Satan. And when that happens, precious lives are left in ruin, promising ministries are destroyed and priceless future opportunities for sharing God's love are lost. The cost is simply too high. But we must not give up and just tell ourselves that this the way it is. For it is not!
There is only one course for us to take – stay very close to our Lord. Admit to Him our weaknesses and surrender to Him our fear ... and then flee from all temptations. Flee every form of evil, and take ourselves out of harm's way. Read the bible and fellowship with one another. Not giving Satan any opportunity to put our lives to waste again.
And pray. We really do need to pray for one another.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, bless every home to again become a sanctuary and in every household will be rekindled the flame of faith to teach patience in adversity and moderationin prosperity and to promote order, peace and harmony in all things. Amen +
Rejoice in the Lord, you just!
Thursday, August 27, 2009
HIS COMING
Matthew 24:42, 44
“Stay awake! You also must be prepared, for at an hour you do not expect, the Son of Man will come.”
----------------------------------------------
As soon as we go to sleep, we do nothing anymore. Until we wake up the next morning, we would just lie there – helpless, motionless at most and very unproductive. But we need to sleep to rest our weary body. So when Jesus said to his disciples, “Stay awake!”, He is not telling them NOT to sleep since He is not pertaining to the body. Rather, He refers to our soul.
We believe and know that God is with us right now. However, due to our worldly affairs, we easily forget that fact and get too preoccupied with the "more important stuffs" and ignore Him. We are not always awake to the presence of God in our lives. God is often crowded out of our consciousness by other things that occupy us during the day. Because of our hectic schedules, it is easy to give God the back seat.
We need to KEEP AWAKE. That’s very hard for people to do. When we’re really sleepy, staying awake is extremely hard to do. We all die, yes, and there is nothing we can do about it. What we have is a choice on how to live life. We can live well, or we can live badly. We can forever shut our eyes to the goodness of the Lord or stay awake to the presence and arrival of Jesus in our hearts, our lives and our actions.
May we awaken to the presence of God in the wonders of His creation, in His people, and in all of us. May we be always on guard, prepared, vigilant and awake to life so that we do not squander the life that God has given us.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, through Your Spirit in me, strengthen me to persevere. Give me the endurance to serve you, and perform my duties. When I am feeling sleepy and weary in doing the right things, remind me that the ways of sin are pathways to destruction. Do not let me, in a moment of weakness and give me the light of your presence so I may stay awake and help me to endure as a good soldier of Your Son, Jesus Christ. Amen +
Fill us with your love, O Lord, and we will sing for joy!
“Stay awake! You also must be prepared, for at an hour you do not expect, the Son of Man will come.”
----------------------------------------------
As soon as we go to sleep, we do nothing anymore. Until we wake up the next morning, we would just lie there – helpless, motionless at most and very unproductive. But we need to sleep to rest our weary body. So when Jesus said to his disciples, “Stay awake!”, He is not telling them NOT to sleep since He is not pertaining to the body. Rather, He refers to our soul.
We believe and know that God is with us right now. However, due to our worldly affairs, we easily forget that fact and get too preoccupied with the "more important stuffs" and ignore Him. We are not always awake to the presence of God in our lives. God is often crowded out of our consciousness by other things that occupy us during the day. Because of our hectic schedules, it is easy to give God the back seat.
We need to KEEP AWAKE. That’s very hard for people to do. When we’re really sleepy, staying awake is extremely hard to do. We all die, yes, and there is nothing we can do about it. What we have is a choice on how to live life. We can live well, or we can live badly. We can forever shut our eyes to the goodness of the Lord or stay awake to the presence and arrival of Jesus in our hearts, our lives and our actions.
May we awaken to the presence of God in the wonders of His creation, in His people, and in all of us. May we be always on guard, prepared, vigilant and awake to life so that we do not squander the life that God has given us.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, through Your Spirit in me, strengthen me to persevere. Give me the endurance to serve you, and perform my duties. When I am feeling sleepy and weary in doing the right things, remind me that the ways of sin are pathways to destruction. Do not let me, in a moment of weakness and give me the light of your presence so I may stay awake and help me to endure as a good soldier of Your Son, Jesus Christ. Amen +
Fill us with your love, O Lord, and we will sing for joy!
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
HIS SIMPLICITY
2 Thessalonians 3:9
Rather, we wanted to present ourselves as a model for you, so that you might imitate us.
-------------------------------------------
When I was attending a statistics class, I learned about something called the KISS rule. It is a simple acronym that means “Keep It Simple, Statistician”. In every analysis, we must look at the problem as simple as possible, analyze the causes as simple as possible and implement simple actions.
This is a simple model of success even with our lives – being simple and humble. When my mother taught me to recite little prayers, she taught me simple ones first. But she established a cornerstone upon which a castle of faith could be built.
My spiritual castle is still under construction. I know that God isn’t finished with me yet. The point is to start small, keep it simple and build on that, one prayer brick at a time. Then, become the model for others to imitate.
In his letter to the Thessalonians, St. Paul advised them no to be distracted by what will happen in the future and even think of the end of the world. They should focus on today and live their lives for God and for others, “being the model for all”, as they imitate the ways of the disciples.
St. Paul was a power preacher who practiced what he preached. A very great model of our faith. Even if words failed him, he sought to conduct himself as a worthy disciple so that his life would be his sermon.
Acknowledge God's presence gratefully every moment of our lives, not just on Sunday mornings. Be a model for others, as we see new faces of God every day in every person we meet.
Let us pray +
Lord Jesus, protect us from hypocrisy; help us to live as You lived and make of our lives Your word to the world. Amen +
For You darkness itself is not dark, and night shines as the day.
Rather, we wanted to present ourselves as a model for you, so that you might imitate us.
-------------------------------------------
When I was attending a statistics class, I learned about something called the KISS rule. It is a simple acronym that means “Keep It Simple, Statistician”. In every analysis, we must look at the problem as simple as possible, analyze the causes as simple as possible and implement simple actions.
This is a simple model of success even with our lives – being simple and humble. When my mother taught me to recite little prayers, she taught me simple ones first. But she established a cornerstone upon which a castle of faith could be built.
My spiritual castle is still under construction. I know that God isn’t finished with me yet. The point is to start small, keep it simple and build on that, one prayer brick at a time. Then, become the model for others to imitate.
In his letter to the Thessalonians, St. Paul advised them no to be distracted by what will happen in the future and even think of the end of the world. They should focus on today and live their lives for God and for others, “being the model for all”, as they imitate the ways of the disciples.
St. Paul was a power preacher who practiced what he preached. A very great model of our faith. Even if words failed him, he sought to conduct himself as a worthy disciple so that his life would be his sermon.
Acknowledge God's presence gratefully every moment of our lives, not just on Sunday mornings. Be a model for others, as we see new faces of God every day in every person we meet.
Let us pray +
Lord Jesus, protect us from hypocrisy; help us to live as You lived and make of our lives Your word to the world. Amen +
For You darkness itself is not dark, and night shines as the day.
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
HIS CLEANSING
Matthew 23:26
“…cleanse first the inside of the cup, so that the outside also may be clean.”
----------------------------------------
Glutathione to whiten the skin. Cellophane to make the hair straight and shiny. Astringent and makeup to make the face flawless and smooth. Supplements to make the body firm and sexy. Do not get me wrong. There is nothing with all of these. We have to take care of our body, since it is the only we’ve got.
Your body is part of how God created you. He wants you to treat it with respect. As expressed in Corinthians, “…know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God… Therefore honor God with your body.”
Still, as expressed by Jesus in the beatitudes, God is still more concerned with the cleanliness of our hearts, and not just enough to clean up our body on the outside. He came to the world in order to reform the hearts of sinners like you and me. So the heart is utterly crucial to Jesus. Jesus did not come into the world simply because we have some bad habits that need to be corrected. He came into the world because we have such dirty hearts that need to be purified, so we may live perfectly as our Heavenly Father is perfect.
You do not need to buy expensive stuffs to have a clean heart. Just let Him come in to you and listen to His words. Let Him purify your mind, let Him cleanse your spirit, let Him create in you a clean heart.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, wash me and cleanse me and purify me! Do a work in my innermost being, in the hidden part of me. Cleanse the inside of my cup! Wash me thoroughly from my iniquity and cleanse me from my sinfulness. Wash me so I shall be whiter than snow! And be worthy of joining your Kingdom in Heaven.
Amen +
You have searched me and you know me, Lord.
“…cleanse first the inside of the cup, so that the outside also may be clean.”
----------------------------------------
Glutathione to whiten the skin. Cellophane to make the hair straight and shiny. Astringent and makeup to make the face flawless and smooth. Supplements to make the body firm and sexy. Do not get me wrong. There is nothing with all of these. We have to take care of our body, since it is the only we’ve got.
Your body is part of how God created you. He wants you to treat it with respect. As expressed in Corinthians, “…know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God… Therefore honor God with your body.”
Still, as expressed by Jesus in the beatitudes, God is still more concerned with the cleanliness of our hearts, and not just enough to clean up our body on the outside. He came to the world in order to reform the hearts of sinners like you and me. So the heart is utterly crucial to Jesus. Jesus did not come into the world simply because we have some bad habits that need to be corrected. He came into the world because we have such dirty hearts that need to be purified, so we may live perfectly as our Heavenly Father is perfect.
You do not need to buy expensive stuffs to have a clean heart. Just let Him come in to you and listen to His words. Let Him purify your mind, let Him cleanse your spirit, let Him create in you a clean heart.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, wash me and cleanse me and purify me! Do a work in my innermost being, in the hidden part of me. Cleanse the inside of my cup! Wash me thoroughly from my iniquity and cleanse me from my sinfulness. Wash me so I shall be whiter than snow! And be worthy of joining your Kingdom in Heaven.
Amen +
You have searched me and you know me, Lord.
Monday, August 24, 2009
HIS GREATNESS
John 1:50
“Do you believe because I told you that I saw you under the fig tree? You will see greater things than this.”
----------------------------------------------------
There was an article in The Readers’ Digest some time back by Claire Safran. The title of this moving story is Mama Hale and Her Little Angels. It tells of Clara Hale, who has spent a lifetime caring for other women’s children. At the time the article was written, she had cared for 487 babies of addicts. Since then, there have been hundreds more. Mama Hale would understand what James talked about — "Having a Faith that Works" — a description of practical Christianity. She puts love into practice.
We must be doers of the Word and not hearers only. A person who claims to have faith without works is like a person who puts all their effort into building the foundation of a house and never builds anything on that foundation. But a person who displays great works but has no faith is like a person who builds their house on sand without any foundation. Our response to God’s love is to be more than simple belief. It is to be a belief so strong it calls us to action.
Works toward God are to do His will and His work and, yes, to obey His laws. Works toward our neighbors are to serve them and to do good for them. Faith without works is dead. Faith with works is life—eternal life!
We must believe that we cannot separate faith and works. They must go together or your faith is a dead faith. We are not talking about our own works or that our works earn us eternal life... but that, by the grace of God, we act in faith working through love to cooperate with the gift of grace and gain eternal life. Let your faith works with love!
Almighty Father, We are not helpless, we are certainly not weak, we are children of the King and His rightful heirs. Turn our hearts toward worship, praise, and thanksgiving when we start to wallow in self pity, selfishness, or pride. I am blessed beyond measure already, and I praise and thank You for all You have provided. Amen+
Make known to men your might…the glorious splendor of your Kingdom.
“Do you believe because I told you that I saw you under the fig tree? You will see greater things than this.”
----------------------------------------------------
There was an article in The Readers’ Digest some time back by Claire Safran. The title of this moving story is Mama Hale and Her Little Angels. It tells of Clara Hale, who has spent a lifetime caring for other women’s children. At the time the article was written, she had cared for 487 babies of addicts. Since then, there have been hundreds more. Mama Hale would understand what James talked about — "Having a Faith that Works" — a description of practical Christianity. She puts love into practice.
We must be doers of the Word and not hearers only. A person who claims to have faith without works is like a person who puts all their effort into building the foundation of a house and never builds anything on that foundation. But a person who displays great works but has no faith is like a person who builds their house on sand without any foundation. Our response to God’s love is to be more than simple belief. It is to be a belief so strong it calls us to action.
Works toward God are to do His will and His work and, yes, to obey His laws. Works toward our neighbors are to serve them and to do good for them. Faith without works is dead. Faith with works is life—eternal life!
We must believe that we cannot separate faith and works. They must go together or your faith is a dead faith. We are not talking about our own works or that our works earn us eternal life... but that, by the grace of God, we act in faith working through love to cooperate with the gift of grace and gain eternal life. Let your faith works with love!
Almighty Father, We are not helpless, we are certainly not weak, we are children of the King and His rightful heirs. Turn our hearts toward worship, praise, and thanksgiving when we start to wallow in self pity, selfishness, or pride. I am blessed beyond measure already, and I praise and thank You for all You have provided. Amen+
Make known to men your might…the glorious splendor of your Kingdom.
Sunday, August 23, 2009
HIS HOLINESS
John 6:69
You have the words of eternal life. We have come to believe and are convinced that you are the Holy One of God.
--------------------------------------------------
I once had a discussion with a lawyer regarding using titles before our names. He mentioned that for doctors and lawyers, it is okay for them to use “Dr.” and “Atty.” before their names because they have undergone more than the normal 4 years of college (8-12 years). So they consider themselves “nagpaka-dalubhasa” (specialist). While for engineers (like me), we only studied 5 years, and yet we always put the title “Engr.” in front of our names.
Well, I just responded that for me, it doesn’t really matter. A person should be known not by titles but by the things he does to help others become better. That title should only be vested in you by those people you helped, for they know that your life was lived for that purpose – saving lives, defending the truth and making the world a better place to live in.
Doctor, President, Mayor – they are all titles. They speak of the office that the person holds; the task he was called to do. So it is with the one we worship, the one whose title we bear when we call ourselves “Christians”. His proper name is “Jesus”. But His title, reflecting the title He holds and the task He was called to do, His title is Christ.
Christ is the Greek word Cristos, a translation of the Hebrew Meshiach, or as we say in English “Messiah”, or the Anointed One. There are a lot of mayors and presidents. But in Jesus’ case it is different. There is only one office of Messiah, of Cristos. He came to the world not to be served, but to serve. And only Him fully deserve to be called the King… the King of all Kings! Jesus - the Christ - who will one day return to proclaim, with the sound of the trumpet, that he is here as almighty Judge and King to usher in the Year of the Lord's Favor.
Lord Jesus, the Anointed One, our Savior and our King, I choose today to take refuge in You. I choose to fear the Lord and not man, and I choose obedience over willfulness and submission over pride. I am blessed beyond measure already, and I praise and thank You for all You have provided, knowing that we will lack no good thing as we seek You first above all else. To You be all the honor and glory!
I will bless the Lord at all times, His praise shall be ever in my mouth.
You have the words of eternal life. We have come to believe and are convinced that you are the Holy One of God.
--------------------------------------------------
I once had a discussion with a lawyer regarding using titles before our names. He mentioned that for doctors and lawyers, it is okay for them to use “Dr.” and “Atty.” before their names because they have undergone more than the normal 4 years of college (8-12 years). So they consider themselves “nagpaka-dalubhasa” (specialist). While for engineers (like me), we only studied 5 years, and yet we always put the title “Engr.” in front of our names.
Well, I just responded that for me, it doesn’t really matter. A person should be known not by titles but by the things he does to help others become better. That title should only be vested in you by those people you helped, for they know that your life was lived for that purpose – saving lives, defending the truth and making the world a better place to live in.
Doctor, President, Mayor – they are all titles. They speak of the office that the person holds; the task he was called to do. So it is with the one we worship, the one whose title we bear when we call ourselves “Christians”. His proper name is “Jesus”. But His title, reflecting the title He holds and the task He was called to do, His title is Christ.
Christ is the Greek word Cristos, a translation of the Hebrew Meshiach, or as we say in English “Messiah”, or the Anointed One. There are a lot of mayors and presidents. But in Jesus’ case it is different. There is only one office of Messiah, of Cristos. He came to the world not to be served, but to serve. And only Him fully deserve to be called the King… the King of all Kings! Jesus - the Christ - who will one day return to proclaim, with the sound of the trumpet, that he is here as almighty Judge and King to usher in the Year of the Lord's Favor.
Lord Jesus, the Anointed One, our Savior and our King, I choose today to take refuge in You. I choose to fear the Lord and not man, and I choose obedience over willfulness and submission over pride. I am blessed beyond measure already, and I praise and thank You for all You have provided, knowing that we will lack no good thing as we seek You first above all else. To You be all the honor and glory!
I will bless the Lord at all times, His praise shall be ever in my mouth.
Saturday, August 22, 2009
HIS HUMILITY
Matthew 22:10-11
Do not be called ‘Master’; you have but one master, the Christ. The greatest among you must be your servant.
--------------------------------------------------
When we are invited in a party, most of the time, we choose the best place for us – near the buffet table, near the exit, near the presidential table. Sometimes, we would sit in a place wherein we would be the center of attraction – “sayang naman ang make-up”, “sayang naman ang damit” (“I want them to see how beautiful I am and my dress is”).
Jesus’ parable about those who go to a feast has a simple message. “When you are invited, go and sit down in the lowest place, so that when he who invited you comes he may say to you, ‘Friend, go up higher.’ Then you will have glory in the presence of those who sit at the table with you.” This is a parable on not just about being humble, but also on how that proud will be humiliated by the meek.
His instructions are clear and straight to the point. These are exactly what’s wrong – pride, self-promoting, exalting self. When we choose to fight, strive or desire recognition, appreciation, honor and respect, we are exalting our self. He is also clear on how to change – humble your self. Get our eyes off our self. Focus on Jesus and His power working in us. The genuinely humble do not seek their own honor, but rather seek to honor God. But in the end, God honors them. A true servant does not seek his own reward, but rather serves because he has accepted the Lordship of Christ.
Let us pray +
Lord Jesus, thank you for coming into our lives and straightening us out. Thank you we no longer need to strive for honor, because in you we have honor. Teach us humility by allowing others before us. In your name we pray.
Amen +
Our help is in the name of the Lord.
Do not be called ‘Master’; you have but one master, the Christ. The greatest among you must be your servant.
--------------------------------------------------
When we are invited in a party, most of the time, we choose the best place for us – near the buffet table, near the exit, near the presidential table. Sometimes, we would sit in a place wherein we would be the center of attraction – “sayang naman ang make-up”, “sayang naman ang damit” (“I want them to see how beautiful I am and my dress is”).
Jesus’ parable about those who go to a feast has a simple message. “When you are invited, go and sit down in the lowest place, so that when he who invited you comes he may say to you, ‘Friend, go up higher.’ Then you will have glory in the presence of those who sit at the table with you.” This is a parable on not just about being humble, but also on how that proud will be humiliated by the meek.
His instructions are clear and straight to the point. These are exactly what’s wrong – pride, self-promoting, exalting self. When we choose to fight, strive or desire recognition, appreciation, honor and respect, we are exalting our self. He is also clear on how to change – humble your self. Get our eyes off our self. Focus on Jesus and His power working in us. The genuinely humble do not seek their own honor, but rather seek to honor God. But in the end, God honors them. A true servant does not seek his own reward, but rather serves because he has accepted the Lordship of Christ.
Let us pray +
Lord Jesus, thank you for coming into our lives and straightening us out. Thank you we no longer need to strive for honor, because in you we have honor. Teach us humility by allowing others before us. In your name we pray.
Amen +
Our help is in the name of the Lord.
Friday, August 21, 2009
HIS SACRIFICE
Acts 2:24
“You shall love the Lord, your God… The second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself.”
--------------------------------------------
About two weeks ago, the Filipino people and the world witnessed the funeral march for Philippine’s greatest democracy icon – President Corazon Aquino. She was the president after that tumultuous martial law years. And this day, August 21, Filipinos commemorate the day when her husband was assassinated in 1983. That event led to the almost daily rallies and street demonstrations that made Marcos eventually call for a snap election. Marcos won, but charges of cheating came up and more unrest followed. He eventually quit paving the way for Cory to assume the presidency.
To her death, Cory Aquino remained a firm believer in people power. People power, she says, “will bring change but not the ultimate or desired change that will continue.” This is why, she says, “we have to change first within ourselves and we have to continuously find out what it is that we can do to offer to our country.”
Constantly sacrificing herself for freedom and the Filipino people, all for the glory of God.
"You know," she says, "when Ninoy was in prison, I used to think all of us have a quota for suffering and when Ninoy was assassinated, I supposed I'd filled up my quota of suffering. But that isn't so, and when we think of Jesus Christ who did not do anybody any wrong, He was goodness Himself, and yet He was prepared to make all of these sacrifices and His suffering did not end until he died. So I suppose, each of us, while we are in this world, while we are here in the Philippines, must think of what it is that we can still offer to make life better for our fellow Filipinos."
Let us pray +
Lord Jesus, all power in heaven and on earth has been given to You. May we go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit as we put our trust and faith in You until the end of the age. Amen +
Praise the Lord, my soul!
“You shall love the Lord, your God… The second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself.”
--------------------------------------------
About two weeks ago, the Filipino people and the world witnessed the funeral march for Philippine’s greatest democracy icon – President Corazon Aquino. She was the president after that tumultuous martial law years. And this day, August 21, Filipinos commemorate the day when her husband was assassinated in 1983. That event led to the almost daily rallies and street demonstrations that made Marcos eventually call for a snap election. Marcos won, but charges of cheating came up and more unrest followed. He eventually quit paving the way for Cory to assume the presidency.
To her death, Cory Aquino remained a firm believer in people power. People power, she says, “will bring change but not the ultimate or desired change that will continue.” This is why, she says, “we have to change first within ourselves and we have to continuously find out what it is that we can do to offer to our country.”
Constantly sacrificing herself for freedom and the Filipino people, all for the glory of God.
"You know," she says, "when Ninoy was in prison, I used to think all of us have a quota for suffering and when Ninoy was assassinated, I supposed I'd filled up my quota of suffering. But that isn't so, and when we think of Jesus Christ who did not do anybody any wrong, He was goodness Himself, and yet He was prepared to make all of these sacrifices and His suffering did not end until he died. So I suppose, each of us, while we are in this world, while we are here in the Philippines, must think of what it is that we can still offer to make life better for our fellow Filipinos."
Let us pray +
Lord Jesus, all power in heaven and on earth has been given to You. May we go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit as we put our trust and faith in You until the end of the age. Amen +
Praise the Lord, my soul!
Thursday, August 20, 2009
HIS INVITATION
Matthew 22:14
“Many are invited, but few are chosen.”
-------------------------------------------
Upon receiving an invitation, aside from the date, time and venue, we also have to check whether we need to advise someone that we are accepting the invitation (“RSVP”) and what attire we should be wearing. Sometimes, we forget these two so we ended up not being allowed to join the party.
In the gospel today, an invitation was sent to everyone, but no one attended at first. And from those who did go to the party later on, only a few are chosen to enter the banquet. The invitation has gone out to all who care to listen, but some just refused, and some wanted to come but refused to submit to the requirements of entrance into the kingdom.
Those Jesus refers to as "chosen" are the people who had done two things - respond to the invitation to come (“RSVP”), and respond in the proper manner so that they are prepared to enter the kingdom (“Proper Attire”).
This is the message of the Gospel, the good news. It is only good news if salvation delivers us from darkness and accepted the invitation of God. And upon entering, we should be clothed in righteousness needed to enter God’s Kingdom - the total acceptance in God’s eyes that Christ is our only Savior, Lord and King.
Christ has provided this garment of righteousness for everyone, but each person must choose to put it on in order to enter the King’s banquet (eternal life). There is an open invitation, but we must be ready – RSVP and Proper Attire.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, I accept Your invitation to Your grand banquet in Heaven. I invite Jesus to become the Lord of my life, to rule and reign in my heart from this day forward. Please send your Holy Spirit to help me obey You, and to do Your will for the rest of my life. In Jesus' name I pray,
Amen +
Here I am, Lord; I come to do your will.
“Many are invited, but few are chosen.”
-------------------------------------------
Upon receiving an invitation, aside from the date, time and venue, we also have to check whether we need to advise someone that we are accepting the invitation (“RSVP”) and what attire we should be wearing. Sometimes, we forget these two so we ended up not being allowed to join the party.
In the gospel today, an invitation was sent to everyone, but no one attended at first. And from those who did go to the party later on, only a few are chosen to enter the banquet. The invitation has gone out to all who care to listen, but some just refused, and some wanted to come but refused to submit to the requirements of entrance into the kingdom.
Those Jesus refers to as "chosen" are the people who had done two things - respond to the invitation to come (“RSVP”), and respond in the proper manner so that they are prepared to enter the kingdom (“Proper Attire”).
This is the message of the Gospel, the good news. It is only good news if salvation delivers us from darkness and accepted the invitation of God. And upon entering, we should be clothed in righteousness needed to enter God’s Kingdom - the total acceptance in God’s eyes that Christ is our only Savior, Lord and King.
Christ has provided this garment of righteousness for everyone, but each person must choose to put it on in order to enter the King’s banquet (eternal life). There is an open invitation, but we must be ready – RSVP and Proper Attire.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, I accept Your invitation to Your grand banquet in Heaven. I invite Jesus to become the Lord of my life, to rule and reign in my heart from this day forward. Please send your Holy Spirit to help me obey You, and to do Your will for the rest of my life. In Jesus' name I pray,
Amen +
Here I am, Lord; I come to do your will.
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
HIS GENEROSITY
Matthew 20:15
Are you envious because I am generous?
---------------------------------------------
Taken from Kerygma - August 20, 2008
He worked for this company for more than 30 years. The company grew and prospered… but not his career. Some of his officemates who were younger than him in age and in years of service had been promoted to officer level and became his immediate supervisors.
He resented his superiors for that. “I have been with this company for so long and this is what I get? It’s so unfair,” he would say.
In today’s Gospel, the owner of the vineyard paid all the workers equally regardless of the number of hours they worked. Consequently, the workers who toiled the whole day grumbled and complained that they did not get a fair share.
How often are we like these workers? Are we jealous of what God blesses another person with, thinking that we deserve more because we have been serving Him longer? Are we envious of other people’s “good fortune” considering that we are more talented, intelligent and hardworking?
The cure for envy is a thankful heart. Let’s stop comparing and start thanking the Lord for His blessings.
Let us pray +
Forgive me, Lord, for the times that I was envious of what others had. Grant me the grace to be contented and be appreciative of everything You have blessed me with. Thank You.
Amen +
You have granted him his heart’s desire… refused not the wish of his lips.
Are you envious because I am generous?
---------------------------------------------
Taken from Kerygma - August 20, 2008
He worked for this company for more than 30 years. The company grew and prospered… but not his career. Some of his officemates who were younger than him in age and in years of service had been promoted to officer level and became his immediate supervisors.
He resented his superiors for that. “I have been with this company for so long and this is what I get? It’s so unfair,” he would say.
In today’s Gospel, the owner of the vineyard paid all the workers equally regardless of the number of hours they worked. Consequently, the workers who toiled the whole day grumbled and complained that they did not get a fair share.
How often are we like these workers? Are we jealous of what God blesses another person with, thinking that we deserve more because we have been serving Him longer? Are we envious of other people’s “good fortune” considering that we are more talented, intelligent and hardworking?
The cure for envy is a thankful heart. Let’s stop comparing and start thanking the Lord for His blessings.
Let us pray +
Forgive me, Lord, for the times that I was envious of what others had. Grant me the grace to be contented and be appreciative of everything You have blessed me with. Thank You.
Amen +
You have granted him his heart’s desire… refused not the wish of his lips.
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
HIS REWARDS
Matthew 19:30
“But many who are first will be last, and the last will be first.”
-----------------------------------------
As a student, my parents would tell me to always excel in class, trying to be number 1. Well, I did try my best, but it is not always good enough – graduating 3rd honor in both elementary and high school. But I did not hear them grumbling. They pushed me to my limits, yes – but they really expected nothing in return.
And during graduation time, I would give them my medal, whatever color it is, a symbol of their hardwork and patience so we all would grow right and God-fearing. I may still end up the last in class, but still I know that I would always be the first in their hearts.
Similarly, God loves everyone. And everyone shall receive His grace and mercy. We would always be first in His heart. Not because you are first in knowing Him, doesn’t mean that you will receive more grace and love than those who just knew Him yesterday or this morning.
Reward in the kingdom is not dispensed according to seniority or time in service. There is equality in the abundance of blessings that citizens in the kingdom receive. And it is reckoned by grace and not time cards (so much work, so much pay). So the last to enter the kingdom would still have full remission of sins and hope, just as those who are veterans in the field.
We are all imperfect. Eternal life is undeserved by all who shall receive it – but, since God is love, His Son was sacrificed for the salvation of all men. And everyone is equal to that promise – saints and sinners alike shall be saved, as long as they recognize Jesus as their Lord and Savior.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, let me work in Your vineyard, without questioning Your generosity. You are the Lord of all, and everyone is entitled to your grace, mercy and blessings. May those who are still outside Your vineyard hear the words of Christ, for His words are spirit and are life. And may the words that they hear not be stolen from their hearts. Amen +
I will hear what God proclaims; the LORD–for he proclaims peace…
“But many who are first will be last, and the last will be first.”
-----------------------------------------
As a student, my parents would tell me to always excel in class, trying to be number 1. Well, I did try my best, but it is not always good enough – graduating 3rd honor in both elementary and high school. But I did not hear them grumbling. They pushed me to my limits, yes – but they really expected nothing in return.
And during graduation time, I would give them my medal, whatever color it is, a symbol of their hardwork and patience so we all would grow right and God-fearing. I may still end up the last in class, but still I know that I would always be the first in their hearts.
Similarly, God loves everyone. And everyone shall receive His grace and mercy. We would always be first in His heart. Not because you are first in knowing Him, doesn’t mean that you will receive more grace and love than those who just knew Him yesterday or this morning.
Reward in the kingdom is not dispensed according to seniority or time in service. There is equality in the abundance of blessings that citizens in the kingdom receive. And it is reckoned by grace and not time cards (so much work, so much pay). So the last to enter the kingdom would still have full remission of sins and hope, just as those who are veterans in the field.
We are all imperfect. Eternal life is undeserved by all who shall receive it – but, since God is love, His Son was sacrificed for the salvation of all men. And everyone is equal to that promise – saints and sinners alike shall be saved, as long as they recognize Jesus as their Lord and Savior.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, let me work in Your vineyard, without questioning Your generosity. You are the Lord of all, and everyone is entitled to your grace, mercy and blessings. May those who are still outside Your vineyard hear the words of Christ, for His words are spirit and are life. And may the words that they hear not be stolen from their hearts. Amen +
I will hear what God proclaims; the LORD–for he proclaims peace…
Monday, August 17, 2009
HIS PERFECTION
Matthew 19:21
“If you wish to be perfect, go, sell what you have and give to (the) poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.”
------------------------------------------------
How many times have we prayed like this – “Lord, I will donate to a charity, if you will heal me of my lingering illness”, or “Jesus, I will hear mass everyday, if you would let me pass my exam tomorrow”? This is a selfish prayer, for we are selfish people.
We are all called to a life of holiness and obedience to His will. In fact, Christ is calling us to a life of perfection – loving one another unselfishly and unconditionally. Following Christ will fill the void in our hearts and will earn us the gift of eternal life. However, we are not generous. Our love, like the man in today’s gospel, is conditional and not willing to make the necessary sacrifices for Christ.
Christ has given us the Gospel to know, love and imitate Him. He shared to us how we shall face the reality of discipleship. That is, we must be ready not only to enjoy the benefits of friendship - knowledge, wisdom, understanding, peace, joy - but also to love Him unconditionally whatever the cost may be.
Christ has already provided us with His example of unconditional love – suffering and dying on the cross so our sins may be forgiven. There is nothing He did not give for our salvation. He only asks that we love Him in return.
I pray to be perfect. I pray that I may forego of everything. I pray that finally, I may come to Him and follow Him.
Unconditionally. No matter what.
Let us pray +
Lord Jesus Christ, I want to be Your disciple of unconditional love who accompanies You through joys and sufferings. I only ask You to be patient with me and grant me the grace to be faithful. My life is Yours, use me for the salvation of souls and for Your greater glory. Amen +
Remember us, O Lord, as you favor your people.
“If you wish to be perfect, go, sell what you have and give to (the) poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.”
------------------------------------------------
How many times have we prayed like this – “Lord, I will donate to a charity, if you will heal me of my lingering illness”, or “Jesus, I will hear mass everyday, if you would let me pass my exam tomorrow”? This is a selfish prayer, for we are selfish people.
We are all called to a life of holiness and obedience to His will. In fact, Christ is calling us to a life of perfection – loving one another unselfishly and unconditionally. Following Christ will fill the void in our hearts and will earn us the gift of eternal life. However, we are not generous. Our love, like the man in today’s gospel, is conditional and not willing to make the necessary sacrifices for Christ.
Christ has given us the Gospel to know, love and imitate Him. He shared to us how we shall face the reality of discipleship. That is, we must be ready not only to enjoy the benefits of friendship - knowledge, wisdom, understanding, peace, joy - but also to love Him unconditionally whatever the cost may be.
Christ has already provided us with His example of unconditional love – suffering and dying on the cross so our sins may be forgiven. There is nothing He did not give for our salvation. He only asks that we love Him in return.
I pray to be perfect. I pray that I may forego of everything. I pray that finally, I may come to Him and follow Him.
Unconditionally. No matter what.
Let us pray +
Lord Jesus Christ, I want to be Your disciple of unconditional love who accompanies You through joys and sufferings. I only ask You to be patient with me and grant me the grace to be faithful. My life is Yours, use me for the salvation of souls and for Your greater glory. Amen +
Remember us, O Lord, as you favor your people.
Sunday, August 16, 2009
HIS BODY
John 6:58
“This is the bread that came down from heaven… whoever eats this bread will live forever.”
--------------------------------------------
Aside from receiving Jesus during communion, what other ways can we eat this Bread of Life? We should all know that without the Bread of Life man cannot live spiritually. Just as physically man needs to eat in order to live, the bread of life gives nourishment for the soul. Unless one eats from the Bread of Life, then he faces eternal death.
EAT THE BREAD OF LIFE BY PRAYING. When St. Polycarp, Bishop of Smyrna was condemned to death by burning was tied to the stake, he began the prayer of praise and thanksgiving that would transform him into the body of Christ. When he pronounced the great Amen, the executioners lit the pyre. A great flame leapt up and his followers tell how they saw it form as if it were an arch surrounding the body of the martyr. He himself appeared not like flesh being burned, but as bread in an oven.
BY READING HIS WORD. Most, if not, all of us has Bibles. But only some, if not very few, have actually read his Bible today. He may have read it when it was new, but as soon as he puts it back to the shelves, dust will be its only companion for years to come. Take out the dust and start reading about the promises of God through the Bible. It is the best food that can relieve your physical and spiritual hunger.
Jesus showed us the example of how we must live our lives. To partake of this bread, we must accept Him, pray and read His words, that is, to live our lives the way Jesus, the Bread of Life, lived His.
Let us pray +
Lord, look upon this sacrifice which you have given to your Church; and by your Holy Spirit, gather all who share this one bread and one cup into the one body of Christ, a living sacrifice of praise.
Amen +
Glorify the LORD with me, let us together extol his name.
“This is the bread that came down from heaven… whoever eats this bread will live forever.”
--------------------------------------------
Aside from receiving Jesus during communion, what other ways can we eat this Bread of Life? We should all know that without the Bread of Life man cannot live spiritually. Just as physically man needs to eat in order to live, the bread of life gives nourishment for the soul. Unless one eats from the Bread of Life, then he faces eternal death.
EAT THE BREAD OF LIFE BY PRAYING. When St. Polycarp, Bishop of Smyrna was condemned to death by burning was tied to the stake, he began the prayer of praise and thanksgiving that would transform him into the body of Christ. When he pronounced the great Amen, the executioners lit the pyre. A great flame leapt up and his followers tell how they saw it form as if it were an arch surrounding the body of the martyr. He himself appeared not like flesh being burned, but as bread in an oven.
BY READING HIS WORD. Most, if not, all of us has Bibles. But only some, if not very few, have actually read his Bible today. He may have read it when it was new, but as soon as he puts it back to the shelves, dust will be its only companion for years to come. Take out the dust and start reading about the promises of God through the Bible. It is the best food that can relieve your physical and spiritual hunger.
Jesus showed us the example of how we must live our lives. To partake of this bread, we must accept Him, pray and read His words, that is, to live our lives the way Jesus, the Bread of Life, lived His.
Let us pray +
Lord, look upon this sacrifice which you have given to your Church; and by your Holy Spirit, gather all who share this one bread and one cup into the one body of Christ, a living sacrifice of praise.
Amen +
Glorify the LORD with me, let us together extol his name.
Saturday, August 15, 2009
HIS MOTHER
Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary
Luke 11:46-47
“My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord; my spirit rejoices in God my Savior…”
--------------------------------------
According to the Catholic theology and Catechism, the Virgin Mary, “having completed the course of her earthly life, was assumed body and soul into heavenly glory.” Her acceptance into the glory of Heaven is seen as the symbol of the promise made by Jesus to all enduring Christians that they too will be received into paradise.
SHE IS OUR MODEL. She is a model for us all, in modesty, obedience and humility. By her complete adherence to the Father's will, to his Son's redemptive work, and to every prompting of the Holy Spirit, the Virgin Mary is the Church's model of faith and charity.
SHE IS OUR MOTHER. This motherhood of Mary in the order of grace continues uninterruptedly from the consent which she loyally gave at the Annunciation and which she sustained without wavering beneath the cross, until the eternal fulfillment of all that God has promised to us. Taken up to heaven, she did not totally forgotten us, instead, through her obedience and powerful intercession continues to bring us the gifts of eternal salvation.
Let us give honor to our Mother +
Mama Mary, full of grace. Truly it is right to bless you, O God-bearer, for you are most blessed, most pure, and the Mother of our God. Without corruption, you gave birth to God the Word: True God-bearer, we magnify you! Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit: now and ever and to ages of ages.
Amen +
The queen stands at your right hand, arrayed in gold.
Luke 11:46-47
“My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord; my spirit rejoices in God my Savior…”
--------------------------------------
According to the Catholic theology and Catechism, the Virgin Mary, “having completed the course of her earthly life, was assumed body and soul into heavenly glory.” Her acceptance into the glory of Heaven is seen as the symbol of the promise made by Jesus to all enduring Christians that they too will be received into paradise.
SHE IS OUR MODEL. She is a model for us all, in modesty, obedience and humility. By her complete adherence to the Father's will, to his Son's redemptive work, and to every prompting of the Holy Spirit, the Virgin Mary is the Church's model of faith and charity.
SHE IS OUR MOTHER. This motherhood of Mary in the order of grace continues uninterruptedly from the consent which she loyally gave at the Annunciation and which she sustained without wavering beneath the cross, until the eternal fulfillment of all that God has promised to us. Taken up to heaven, she did not totally forgotten us, instead, through her obedience and powerful intercession continues to bring us the gifts of eternal salvation.
Let us give honor to our Mother +
Mama Mary, full of grace. Truly it is right to bless you, O God-bearer, for you are most blessed, most pure, and the Mother of our God. Without corruption, you gave birth to God the Word: True God-bearer, we magnify you! Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit: now and ever and to ages of ages.
Amen +
The queen stands at your right hand, arrayed in gold.
Friday, August 14, 2009
HIS ONENESS
Matthew 19:6
“Therefore, what God has joined together, man must not separate.”
----------------------------------------
Many people have wondered why Jesus gave such a demanding teaching on marriage. Forbidding divorce flies in the face of human experience. This is obvious today when separation or divorce (as allowed in some countries) is so common, but it was true also back in Jesus’ day. As we heard in the Gospel, Moses had to set up procedures for divorce. Jesus went against a widespread practice. He refused to recognize divorce. He says that to divorce your spouse and marry another is the same thing as committing adultery.
The only teaching we have is the one Jesus gave us: that marriage is a lifelong, unbreakable union between a man and a woman. Because of that firm teaching, the Catholic Church has always considered marriage as the great icon of the union between God and his people.
Ultimately, as Pope Benedict wrote, Jesus’ teaching about marriage is about more than our human relationships. It is about the relationship of us to God and God to us: a passionate love which invites a total and exclusive response. In that relationship above all: What God has joined, no human being must separate.
And since God is the one who decisively makes every marriage, only God has the right to break a marriage. And he does it by death. Which is why the traditional and biblical marriage vows have one and only one limitation: “till death do us part.”
Rekindle your love for your spouse whom God has given you to be your partner for life, for richer and poorer, for better or worse, in sickness and in health – may the Lord our God blesses our marriage forever and ever.
Almighty Father, help us to remember when we first met and the strong love that grew between us. To work that love into practical things so nothing can divide us. We ask for words both kind and loving and hearts always ready to ask forgiveness as well as to forgive. Dear Lord, we put our marriage into your hands. Amen +
Give thanks to the LORD, for He is good, for His mercy endures forever;
“Therefore, what God has joined together, man must not separate.”
----------------------------------------
Many people have wondered why Jesus gave such a demanding teaching on marriage. Forbidding divorce flies in the face of human experience. This is obvious today when separation or divorce (as allowed in some countries) is so common, but it was true also back in Jesus’ day. As we heard in the Gospel, Moses had to set up procedures for divorce. Jesus went against a widespread practice. He refused to recognize divorce. He says that to divorce your spouse and marry another is the same thing as committing adultery.
The only teaching we have is the one Jesus gave us: that marriage is a lifelong, unbreakable union between a man and a woman. Because of that firm teaching, the Catholic Church has always considered marriage as the great icon of the union between God and his people.
Ultimately, as Pope Benedict wrote, Jesus’ teaching about marriage is about more than our human relationships. It is about the relationship of us to God and God to us: a passionate love which invites a total and exclusive response. In that relationship above all: What God has joined, no human being must separate.
And since God is the one who decisively makes every marriage, only God has the right to break a marriage. And he does it by death. Which is why the traditional and biblical marriage vows have one and only one limitation: “till death do us part.”
Rekindle your love for your spouse whom God has given you to be your partner for life, for richer and poorer, for better or worse, in sickness and in health – may the Lord our God blesses our marriage forever and ever.
Almighty Father, help us to remember when we first met and the strong love that grew between us. To work that love into practical things so nothing can divide us. We ask for words both kind and loving and hearts always ready to ask forgiveness as well as to forgive. Dear Lord, we put our marriage into your hands. Amen +
Give thanks to the LORD, for He is good, for His mercy endures forever;
Thursday, August 13, 2009
HIS FORGIVENESS
Matthew 18:32-33
I forgave you your entire debt because you begged me to. Should you not have had pity on your fellow servant, as I had pity on you?
---------------------------------------
Forgiveness. Easy to say that you have forgiven someone, but really hard to do, that is, forgiving from the heart – forgiving and forgetting.
And yet, we have experienced it first-hand when Jesus took the cross and died for all our sins. Jesus Christ humbled himself, became man, and died the death of a criminal. In so doing, he received upon himself the totality of the wrath that was against all who trust in him.
Practice forgiveness. I, myself, have a lot of catching up to do here. Start in the home. Husbands and wives must practice it. Parents and children must practice it. As families practice this, there will be no separation nor will family be destroyed. Forgiveness in the home will result in healthy families.
Practice forgiveness at the work place. Do not become bitter toward your employer and fellow workers. Do not keep score of the offenses of those around you.
And in forgiveness comes joy. When we repent and receive Christ’s forgiveness, we experience a different kind of happiness. This joy is as abundant, as rich and as unlimited as the Lord's abundant forgiveness of us. And by letting others experience this same joy, we must learn to forgive from the heart.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, forgive us our sins as we forgive those who sin against us. Solidify our understanding of forgiveness as you have done for us.
Amen +
Our help is in the name of the Lord.
I forgave you your entire debt because you begged me to. Should you not have had pity on your fellow servant, as I had pity on you?
---------------------------------------
Forgiveness. Easy to say that you have forgiven someone, but really hard to do, that is, forgiving from the heart – forgiving and forgetting.
And yet, we have experienced it first-hand when Jesus took the cross and died for all our sins. Jesus Christ humbled himself, became man, and died the death of a criminal. In so doing, he received upon himself the totality of the wrath that was against all who trust in him.
Practice forgiveness. I, myself, have a lot of catching up to do here. Start in the home. Husbands and wives must practice it. Parents and children must practice it. As families practice this, there will be no separation nor will family be destroyed. Forgiveness in the home will result in healthy families.
Practice forgiveness at the work place. Do not become bitter toward your employer and fellow workers. Do not keep score of the offenses of those around you.
And in forgiveness comes joy. When we repent and receive Christ’s forgiveness, we experience a different kind of happiness. This joy is as abundant, as rich and as unlimited as the Lord's abundant forgiveness of us. And by letting others experience this same joy, we must learn to forgive from the heart.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, forgive us our sins as we forgive those who sin against us. Solidify our understanding of forgiveness as you have done for us.
Amen +
Our help is in the name of the Lord.
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
HIS COMPANIONSHIP
Matthew 18:20
“For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.”
-------------------------------------------
I would miss it again. Every Sunday, we all see to it that we are together as family – hearing mass, having lunch and dinner. When eating out, it is also great to see that either my son or my daughter would lead the prayer before meal. We just hope that the families in the other tables would do the same. For isn’t it heart-warming to see parents and their kids coming before God as a family? I can’t help but smile when I see whole families hear mass together every Sunday. My face light up when I visit homes where children and parents pray together. Truly, “the family that prays together, stays together”.
And when I am in Mexico, I see to it that I will attend the bible study every Wednesday. Together with colleagues, we continue to do so knowing that prayer is very powerful, knowing the Jesus is within our midst.
When we pray as a family or with friends, we let the other members know how we feel and what our concerns are. Our company’s prayer brigade have interceded many times for the healing of friends and loved ones. For we believe that many of our prayers lifted up as a family, especially of healing and blessing have been heard and answered.
Pray with your family today. Make it a habit. You may want to start with short, formal prayers. Inevitably, once you have established the routine, you will progress to saying your own prayers as a family.
Together as a family, let us pray +
Almighty Father, thank You for loving us and providing food, shelter, and each other. Every moment of our lives is a gift and we appreciate all the time You have given us to be with each other, loving one another and sharing that love with others. Keep far from us, above all else, the blemish of sin. Protect us and our house from all evils and misfortunes, but grant that we may be ever resigned to Your divine will even in joy and in sorrows. Finally give unto all of us the grace to live in perfect harmony and in the fullness of love toward our neighbors and friends. Amen +
Blessed be God who filled my soul with fire!
“For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.”
-------------------------------------------
I would miss it again. Every Sunday, we all see to it that we are together as family – hearing mass, having lunch and dinner. When eating out, it is also great to see that either my son or my daughter would lead the prayer before meal. We just hope that the families in the other tables would do the same. For isn’t it heart-warming to see parents and their kids coming before God as a family? I can’t help but smile when I see whole families hear mass together every Sunday. My face light up when I visit homes where children and parents pray together. Truly, “the family that prays together, stays together”.
And when I am in Mexico, I see to it that I will attend the bible study every Wednesday. Together with colleagues, we continue to do so knowing that prayer is very powerful, knowing the Jesus is within our midst.
When we pray as a family or with friends, we let the other members know how we feel and what our concerns are. Our company’s prayer brigade have interceded many times for the healing of friends and loved ones. For we believe that many of our prayers lifted up as a family, especially of healing and blessing have been heard and answered.
Pray with your family today. Make it a habit. You may want to start with short, formal prayers. Inevitably, once you have established the routine, you will progress to saying your own prayers as a family.
Together as a family, let us pray +
Almighty Father, thank You for loving us and providing food, shelter, and each other. Every moment of our lives is a gift and we appreciate all the time You have given us to be with each other, loving one another and sharing that love with others. Keep far from us, above all else, the blemish of sin. Protect us and our house from all evils and misfortunes, but grant that we may be ever resigned to Your divine will even in joy and in sorrows. Finally give unto all of us the grace to live in perfect harmony and in the fullness of love toward our neighbors and friends. Amen +
Blessed be God who filled my soul with fire!
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
HIS HOMECOMING
Matthew 18:12-13
If a man has a hundred sheep and one of them goes astray… and if he finds it, amen, I say to you, he rejoices more over it than over the ninety-nine that did not stray.
------------------------------------------------
In the course of our lives, we may have lost something – significant or otherwise. It may be money, key to the house or a loved one. And we find time to look for them, leaving everything that we do, just to find them. We are no different at all.
Like a sheep, an old coin or the squandering son, we have at one time or another been lost and needed to be found. And the Lord God is continuously looking for us.
You may be near the Lord but if you keep on hiding yourself, then finding you will not be easy. Hiding usually comes in the form of shame on your past deeds. Look up to the Lord and with a contrite heart shout out to Him, “Lord here I am, have mercy on me a sinner.” Then, have a changed heart and change your ways for the better.
Do you feel lost? He is looking for you, He is looking at you. Stop being lost, let yourself be found and come home now. Jesus assured you that there will be rejoicing in Heaven for your much-awaited homecoming.
Trust Him as He commences His effective life-changing ways to find you to re-direct your paths towards Him.
Let us pray +
Most High, glorious God, I was lost and now I am found be Your perfect love. Enlighten the darkness of my heart, and give me right faith, certain hope, and perfect charity, wisdom and understanding, Lord, that I may carry out your holy and true command.
Amen +
The LORD alone was their leader, no strange god was with him.
If a man has a hundred sheep and one of them goes astray… and if he finds it, amen, I say to you, he rejoices more over it than over the ninety-nine that did not stray.
------------------------------------------------
In the course of our lives, we may have lost something – significant or otherwise. It may be money, key to the house or a loved one. And we find time to look for them, leaving everything that we do, just to find them. We are no different at all.
Like a sheep, an old coin or the squandering son, we have at one time or another been lost and needed to be found. And the Lord God is continuously looking for us.
You may be near the Lord but if you keep on hiding yourself, then finding you will not be easy. Hiding usually comes in the form of shame on your past deeds. Look up to the Lord and with a contrite heart shout out to Him, “Lord here I am, have mercy on me a sinner.” Then, have a changed heart and change your ways for the better.
Do you feel lost? He is looking for you, He is looking at you. Stop being lost, let yourself be found and come home now. Jesus assured you that there will be rejoicing in Heaven for your much-awaited homecoming.
Trust Him as He commences His effective life-changing ways to find you to re-direct your paths towards Him.
Let us pray +
Most High, glorious God, I was lost and now I am found be Your perfect love. Enlighten the darkness of my heart, and give me right faith, certain hope, and perfect charity, wisdom and understanding, Lord, that I may carry out your holy and true command.
Amen +
The LORD alone was their leader, no strange god was with him.
HIS LEGACY
John 12:24
“Amen, amen, I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains just a grain of wheat…”
-------------------------------------------------
“… BUT if it dies, it produces more fruit.”
Does this mean that you have to die physically first before you can bear fruit? Of course not. Even heroes and saints have done something significant in the course of their lives. And the lives they lived have become an inspiration to many, so when they died, we all remember their how they lived and use them us a model for ours.
Dying also refers to being free from our old selves. When Adam and Eve was banished from Paradise, we became the property of satan. And we would commit everything that would be in direct opposite to what God wants us to do.
But with Jesus Christ, we are born to a new life. He has paid the ransom though He, himself, has not sinned. He died for us so we would also die and be reborn with the Spirit that is in Him – the same Spirit that He promised and gave us during our Baptism and Confirmation. Still, some would go back to his old self and wallow in sins, to the delight of the devil. And yet, God would still invite us back to Him, for his mercy is endless. He wants us to live a fruitful life, totally surrendered to Him.
This is Jesus’ legacy – a life that is kind, a life that is loving, a life that is fruitful, a life that is eternal.
Let us pray +
Lord Jesus, you have died for our sins, and yet, most of the time, we would never give value to your suffering and death. May we continue to die and forego of our old self and be reborn to be like You, accepting fully the Spirit of Life, of Love and of Truth.
Amen +
His heart is steadfast; he shall not fear till he looks down upon his foes.
“Amen, amen, I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains just a grain of wheat…”
-------------------------------------------------
“… BUT if it dies, it produces more fruit.”
Does this mean that you have to die physically first before you can bear fruit? Of course not. Even heroes and saints have done something significant in the course of their lives. And the lives they lived have become an inspiration to many, so when they died, we all remember their how they lived and use them us a model for ours.
Dying also refers to being free from our old selves. When Adam and Eve was banished from Paradise, we became the property of satan. And we would commit everything that would be in direct opposite to what God wants us to do.
But with Jesus Christ, we are born to a new life. He has paid the ransom though He, himself, has not sinned. He died for us so we would also die and be reborn with the Spirit that is in Him – the same Spirit that He promised and gave us during our Baptism and Confirmation. Still, some would go back to his old self and wallow in sins, to the delight of the devil. And yet, God would still invite us back to Him, for his mercy is endless. He wants us to live a fruitful life, totally surrendered to Him.
This is Jesus’ legacy – a life that is kind, a life that is loving, a life that is fruitful, a life that is eternal.
Let us pray +
Lord Jesus, you have died for our sins, and yet, most of the time, we would never give value to your suffering and death. May we continue to die and forego of our old self and be reborn to be like You, accepting fully the Spirit of Life, of Love and of Truth.
Amen +
His heart is steadfast; he shall not fear till he looks down upon his foes.
Sunday, August 9, 2009
HIS OFFERING
John 6:47-48
Amen, amen, I say to you, whoever believes has eternal life. I am the bread of life.
------------------------------------------------
Do you believe in God the Father? Do you believe in Jesus Christ and His divinity? Do you believe in the Holy Spirit? If you answered yes, then congratulations for you have taken your first step to being in heaven. Here is a harder one – do you believe that you receive Jesus Christ during the Holy Communion? When was the last time that you received him through the Holy Eucharist?
Many Christians today would rather forego participating in the Holy Eucharist because it is not anymore in their belief. But this holy sacrament has been followed and practiced by the disciples of Jesus ever since – feeding of the multitudes, the last supper, the meeting at Emaus and more.
The Eucharist actualizes the central event of salvation – the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. As a community, we gather together to appropriate that event in our lives and commit ourselves to live in communion with the Lord and share in the apostolic ministry and moral principles of the Church.
By virtue of Christ’s presence in the Eucharist, we gather not as individuals but as the one, holy, catholic and apostolic Church. This transformative encounter is the central expression of our unity as children of God and the wellspring from which we draw the strength to witness our faith in the world. Because it is the source of our communion with God and each other, the Eucharist must never become an instrument of division.
Let us pray +
Lord Jesus, may we all recognize your loving presence during the Eucharist. And as we receive you as our Bread of Life, may you strengthen us in our faith and continue to live the life you have shown us.
Amen +
Taste and see the goodness of the Lord.
Amen, amen, I say to you, whoever believes has eternal life. I am the bread of life.
------------------------------------------------
Do you believe in God the Father? Do you believe in Jesus Christ and His divinity? Do you believe in the Holy Spirit? If you answered yes, then congratulations for you have taken your first step to being in heaven. Here is a harder one – do you believe that you receive Jesus Christ during the Holy Communion? When was the last time that you received him through the Holy Eucharist?
Many Christians today would rather forego participating in the Holy Eucharist because it is not anymore in their belief. But this holy sacrament has been followed and practiced by the disciples of Jesus ever since – feeding of the multitudes, the last supper, the meeting at Emaus and more.
The Eucharist actualizes the central event of salvation – the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. As a community, we gather together to appropriate that event in our lives and commit ourselves to live in communion with the Lord and share in the apostolic ministry and moral principles of the Church.
By virtue of Christ’s presence in the Eucharist, we gather not as individuals but as the one, holy, catholic and apostolic Church. This transformative encounter is the central expression of our unity as children of God and the wellspring from which we draw the strength to witness our faith in the world. Because it is the source of our communion with God and each other, the Eucharist must never become an instrument of division.
Let us pray +
Lord Jesus, may we all recognize your loving presence during the Eucharist. And as we receive you as our Bread of Life, may you strengthen us in our faith and continue to live the life you have shown us.
Amen +
Taste and see the goodness of the Lord.
Saturday, August 8, 2009
HIS REIGN
Matthew 17:20
Amen, I say to you, if you have faith the size of a mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move.
----------------------------------------------------
I would still remember the day when the doctor were able to extract 500cc of water from my mother-in-law’s lungs to relieve her of her suffering. It was over in about 15 minutes. The source of Mama’s suffering – water! – was gone.
It is really hard to think that the source of life on earth – water – would be the same source of suffering for Mama. This only shows that nothing is absolutely good here on earth. A thing can be both bad and good depending on how it is used.
Only the Lord God is absolutely good. And by understanding the will of God and how your mind and the mind of Christ are in spiritual warfare between the flesh and the Spirit, you can yield yourself each day to God and allow Him to work through you. And this can be truly understood even if we have faith the size of a mustard seed.
Faith is the substance of the things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. Hope is what you have even if you have nothing else. Christ is our only hope, in Him we have eternal life. He is our faith.
As Christ steps into our lives, we must open the door of our heart. Christ is to reign in our mortal body. He is to be first in our life, to reign as Lord.
Let us pray +
How great is your goodness, dear Lord! Blessed are you for ever! May all created things praise you, O God, for loving us so much that we can truthfully speak of your fellowship with mankind, even in this earthly exile; and however virtuous we may be, our virtue always depends on your great warmth and generosity, dear Lord. Your bounty is infinite. How wonderful are your works!
Amen +
Praised be the LORD, I exclaim! And I am safe from my enemies.
Amen, I say to you, if you have faith the size of a mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move.
----------------------------------------------------
I would still remember the day when the doctor were able to extract 500cc of water from my mother-in-law’s lungs to relieve her of her suffering. It was over in about 15 minutes. The source of Mama’s suffering – water! – was gone.
It is really hard to think that the source of life on earth – water – would be the same source of suffering for Mama. This only shows that nothing is absolutely good here on earth. A thing can be both bad and good depending on how it is used.
Only the Lord God is absolutely good. And by understanding the will of God and how your mind and the mind of Christ are in spiritual warfare between the flesh and the Spirit, you can yield yourself each day to God and allow Him to work through you. And this can be truly understood even if we have faith the size of a mustard seed.
Faith is the substance of the things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. Hope is what you have even if you have nothing else. Christ is our only hope, in Him we have eternal life. He is our faith.
As Christ steps into our lives, we must open the door of our heart. Christ is to reign in our mortal body. He is to be first in our life, to reign as Lord.
Let us pray +
How great is your goodness, dear Lord! Blessed are you for ever! May all created things praise you, O God, for loving us so much that we can truthfully speak of your fellowship with mankind, even in this earthly exile; and however virtuous we may be, our virtue always depends on your great warmth and generosity, dear Lord. Your bounty is infinite. How wonderful are your works!
Amen +
Praised be the LORD, I exclaim! And I am safe from my enemies.
Friday, August 7, 2009
HIS SUFFERING
Matthew 16:24
“Whoever wishes to come after me must deny himself, take up his cross, and follow me.”
--------------------------------------------
We feel weak and have fever. We would immediately take some medicine or see a doctor. For we believe that in doing so, we would get well.
If we believe that people like doctors could make our lives better, or even make us alive again after those lingering illnesses, why can’t we show that same belief in trust in the Lord? This is simply mind-boggling.
Our belief is that if things aren't going well, God has abandoned us or is punishing us. But, I would tell you, this is not true. Being a Christian is very likely going to bring us trials and distress and suffering. And when these things happen to us, we need to feel closer to God.
Believe me, I'm not speaking in the abstract here - I experience the death of my father and my mother and it wasn't easy. But during those experiences, I have never felt closer to the Lord - His presence is very strong, in the midst of our suffering, and I have seen a great deal of good come from it.
God took on the flesh of man so He can share in our sufferings. And until now, He is doing it. Jesus is always here with us now - crying with us, sharing in our suffering. For it was by His suffering in the cross that we are saved.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, You sacrificed Your son so that we and our children would live beyond physical death. We know that You grieved when He was crucified and that You grieve over all the atrocities done by men -- especially in Your name. Lift up our hearts to you and fill us with your peace. Your understanding is beyond our comprehension, but give us the knowledge and faith to endure even that which we cannot understand. You will always be our God, and that Your Love is Life that can never really be taken away. Amen +
O God, your way is holy; what great god is there like our God?
“Whoever wishes to come after me must deny himself, take up his cross, and follow me.”
--------------------------------------------
We feel weak and have fever. We would immediately take some medicine or see a doctor. For we believe that in doing so, we would get well.
If we believe that people like doctors could make our lives better, or even make us alive again after those lingering illnesses, why can’t we show that same belief in trust in the Lord? This is simply mind-boggling.
Our belief is that if things aren't going well, God has abandoned us or is punishing us. But, I would tell you, this is not true. Being a Christian is very likely going to bring us trials and distress and suffering. And when these things happen to us, we need to feel closer to God.
Believe me, I'm not speaking in the abstract here - I experience the death of my father and my mother and it wasn't easy. But during those experiences, I have never felt closer to the Lord - His presence is very strong, in the midst of our suffering, and I have seen a great deal of good come from it.
God took on the flesh of man so He can share in our sufferings. And until now, He is doing it. Jesus is always here with us now - crying with us, sharing in our suffering. For it was by His suffering in the cross that we are saved.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, You sacrificed Your son so that we and our children would live beyond physical death. We know that You grieved when He was crucified and that You grieve over all the atrocities done by men -- especially in Your name. Lift up our hearts to you and fill us with your peace. Your understanding is beyond our comprehension, but give us the knowledge and faith to endure even that which we cannot understand. You will always be our God, and that Your Love is Life that can never really be taken away. Amen +
O God, your way is holy; what great god is there like our God?
Thursday, August 6, 2009
HIS DIVINITY
Feast of the Transfiguration of the Lord
2 Peter 1:16-17
…but we had been eyewitnesses of his majesty. For he received honor and glory from God the Father, “This is my Son, my beloved, with whom I am well pleased.”
------------------------------------------------
I still feel that the Lord God is changing me. Still, I will not be the judge of myself. Those people around me must feel the change in me and within me. Change comes and it goes. When it comes, it feels like it's going to last forever. It can make you feel like the world is ending. But as long as you hold on, and remember that tomorrow, more likely than not, things will be better, you can make yourself feel good.
I must tell myself the truth: I am ever changing, ever growing, ever gaining tools to better serve God and this world in a positive way. I am beautiful and I can get up and continue forward always.
In the transfiguration, Jesus has shown to His disciples His divinity. He practically changed from a mortal one to a Heavenly being equal with God the Father and the Holy Spirit. I may not be able to attain that divinity in my lifetime here on earth, but that should what we shall aspire for – being perfect for our Father is perfect.
Day by day, I left each moment to God. It was my goal and desire to turn to Him for every decision, every thought, every feeling. I knew that this was how I had been created.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, upon the mountain you revealed our Messiah, who by his death and resurrection would fill both the law and the prophets. By his Transfiguration enlighten our path that we may dare to suffer with him in the service of humanity. Continue to change my heart and my whole being so we may follow You willingly, and so share in the everlasting glory of him who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, One God, forever.
Amen +
The Lord is king, the Most High over all the earth.
2 Peter 1:16-17
…but we had been eyewitnesses of his majesty. For he received honor and glory from God the Father, “This is my Son, my beloved, with whom I am well pleased.”
------------------------------------------------
I still feel that the Lord God is changing me. Still, I will not be the judge of myself. Those people around me must feel the change in me and within me. Change comes and it goes. When it comes, it feels like it's going to last forever. It can make you feel like the world is ending. But as long as you hold on, and remember that tomorrow, more likely than not, things will be better, you can make yourself feel good.
I must tell myself the truth: I am ever changing, ever growing, ever gaining tools to better serve God and this world in a positive way. I am beautiful and I can get up and continue forward always.
In the transfiguration, Jesus has shown to His disciples His divinity. He practically changed from a mortal one to a Heavenly being equal with God the Father and the Holy Spirit. I may not be able to attain that divinity in my lifetime here on earth, but that should what we shall aspire for – being perfect for our Father is perfect.
Day by day, I left each moment to God. It was my goal and desire to turn to Him for every decision, every thought, every feeling. I knew that this was how I had been created.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, upon the mountain you revealed our Messiah, who by his death and resurrection would fill both the law and the prophets. By his Transfiguration enlighten our path that we may dare to suffer with him in the service of humanity. Continue to change my heart and my whole being so we may follow You willingly, and so share in the everlasting glory of him who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, One God, forever.
Amen +
The Lord is king, the Most High over all the earth.
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
HIS HEALING
Matthew 15:28
“O woman, great is your faith! Let it be done for you as you wish.”
------------------------------------------------
I have a lot of unanswered prayers. But, that is unanswered based on my definition. Does God really turn a deaf ear to some of our desperate pleas for healing, finances, or protection? We all experience irritation when our best efforts to communicate result in an unsatisfactory response - or worse, no response at all. We often equate the lack of immediate tangible results with God rejecting our prayers.
The gospel of today tells us the story of the Canaanite woman who puts her trust in Jesus and looked for the gift of healing. At first, He did not answer her at all. The more Jesus ignored her, the more the woman shouted, “Lord, Son of David, have mercy on me!” But strong is the faith of this woman. She is not discouraged by any of this. She comes and kneels before him, an act of worship, and prays simply, “Lord, help me!” She knows that she is not worthy to “eat the children’s food”. But she firmly believes that even the lowest of all people can eat “the master’s crumbs”, for salvation and healing is for all.
With this, she expressed her abounding and unlimited faith. And Jesus was completely won over by her faith, her confidence and her wit: “Woman, great is your faith! Let it be done for you as you wish.” The miracle of faith takes place and her daughter was healed instantly.
God wants us to bring our every need to Him as He answers according to His character and will. God will never grant requests contrary to His will. God wants us to have everlasting joy -- especially when He responds, “No, it will be done in My time, not yours. When we pray without ceasing, God always responds, and every answer brings joy. God’s love is universal and no one is outside His love and mercy. What is necessary is the faith in Him and He will do the rest.
Almighty Father, thank You for Your promises which clearly tell us that those who are faithful to Your call will be given all the wisdom, knowledge and strength we need to accomplish what we are called to do. Turn our hearts away from our own selfish desires and teach us to love You only. Amen +
Remember us, O Lord, as you favor your people.
“O woman, great is your faith! Let it be done for you as you wish.”
------------------------------------------------
I have a lot of unanswered prayers. But, that is unanswered based on my definition. Does God really turn a deaf ear to some of our desperate pleas for healing, finances, or protection? We all experience irritation when our best efforts to communicate result in an unsatisfactory response - or worse, no response at all. We often equate the lack of immediate tangible results with God rejecting our prayers.
The gospel of today tells us the story of the Canaanite woman who puts her trust in Jesus and looked for the gift of healing. At first, He did not answer her at all. The more Jesus ignored her, the more the woman shouted, “Lord, Son of David, have mercy on me!” But strong is the faith of this woman. She is not discouraged by any of this. She comes and kneels before him, an act of worship, and prays simply, “Lord, help me!” She knows that she is not worthy to “eat the children’s food”. But she firmly believes that even the lowest of all people can eat “the master’s crumbs”, for salvation and healing is for all.
With this, she expressed her abounding and unlimited faith. And Jesus was completely won over by her faith, her confidence and her wit: “Woman, great is your faith! Let it be done for you as you wish.” The miracle of faith takes place and her daughter was healed instantly.
God wants us to bring our every need to Him as He answers according to His character and will. God will never grant requests contrary to His will. God wants us to have everlasting joy -- especially when He responds, “No, it will be done in My time, not yours. When we pray without ceasing, God always responds, and every answer brings joy. God’s love is universal and no one is outside His love and mercy. What is necessary is the faith in Him and He will do the rest.
Almighty Father, thank You for Your promises which clearly tell us that those who are faithful to Your call will be given all the wisdom, knowledge and strength we need to accomplish what we are called to do. Turn our hearts away from our own selfish desires and teach us to love You only. Amen +
Remember us, O Lord, as you favor your people.
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
HIS PRESENCE
Matthew 14:23
After doing so, He went up on the mountain by Himself to pray. When it was evening He was there alone.
--------------------------------------------------
After a hectic day, I would like to spend my time alone in my room. I would just close my eyes and say a prayer. Ahh, yes… let it all out and let God do the rest. It’s really great to be with the Lord everyday and everytime. By doing so, we will become friends with the God of eternity, and our lives will never be the same.
Jesus knew the Father was always with Him. He had a connection with the Father that was unbreakable. Ministering to the sick, raising the dead and casting out demons did not impede their communion. Debating with the religious establishment did not hinder their intimacy.
He and the Father were always together, despite the circumstances Jesus found Himself in. This obedience on Jesus’ part would not have been possible had He not lived in continual communion with the Father – constantly praying and receiving the Father’s direction for varying circumstances.
Let us spend some time in isolation with the Father through an earnest prayer. It is a solid response to the realization that without His strength and leading, we will soon become empty vessels of no benefit to those who need His touch. Is there a problem for which we need an answer or direction? Perhaps an extended period of solitude with the Father will provide the needed resolution. Talk to Him in prayers!
Let us pray +
This is another day, O Lord. I know not what it will bring forth, but make me ready, Lord, for whatever it may be. If I am to stand up, help me to stand bravely. If I am to sit still, help me to sit quietly. If I am to lie low, help me to do it patiently. And if I am to do nothing, let me do it gallantly. Make these words more than words, and give me the Spirit of Jesus.
Amen +
Be merciful, O Lord, for we have sinned.
After doing so, He went up on the mountain by Himself to pray. When it was evening He was there alone.
--------------------------------------------------
After a hectic day, I would like to spend my time alone in my room. I would just close my eyes and say a prayer. Ahh, yes… let it all out and let God do the rest. It’s really great to be with the Lord everyday and everytime. By doing so, we will become friends with the God of eternity, and our lives will never be the same.
Jesus knew the Father was always with Him. He had a connection with the Father that was unbreakable. Ministering to the sick, raising the dead and casting out demons did not impede their communion. Debating with the religious establishment did not hinder their intimacy.
He and the Father were always together, despite the circumstances Jesus found Himself in. This obedience on Jesus’ part would not have been possible had He not lived in continual communion with the Father – constantly praying and receiving the Father’s direction for varying circumstances.
Let us spend some time in isolation with the Father through an earnest prayer. It is a solid response to the realization that without His strength and leading, we will soon become empty vessels of no benefit to those who need His touch. Is there a problem for which we need an answer or direction? Perhaps an extended period of solitude with the Father will provide the needed resolution. Talk to Him in prayers!
Let us pray +
This is another day, O Lord. I know not what it will bring forth, but make me ready, Lord, for whatever it may be. If I am to stand up, help me to stand bravely. If I am to sit still, help me to sit quietly. If I am to lie low, help me to do it patiently. And if I am to do nothing, let me do it gallantly. Make these words more than words, and give me the Spirit of Jesus.
Amen +
Be merciful, O Lord, for we have sinned.
Monday, August 3, 2009
HIS PROVISIONS
Matthew 14:20-21
They all ate and were satisfied… about five thousand men, not counting women and children.
------------------------------------------------
We were both tired and hungry. The whole morning was spent talking to doctors, buying some needed medicines and medical stuffs, checking the bill, talking to visiting friends and relatives. It was 2 o’clock in the afternoon and we haven’t really eaten our lunch. Then, suddenly, a knock was heard on the door. A friend of my wife visited and brought some food. Whew, what a relief, what an answered prayer!
The Miracle of Multiplication of the Bread and Fish is an amazing miracle which marks in a way the beginning of a long historical process: the uninterrupted multiplication in the Church of the Bread of new life for the people of every race and culture. This sacramental ministry is entrusted to the Apostles and to their successors. And they, faithful to the divine Master's command, never cease to break and distribute the Eucharistic bread from generation to generation. With this Bread of life, a remedy of immortality, countless saints and martyrs were nourished and from it drew the strength to resist even harsh and prolonged sufferings.
Our body hungers for food once in a while, but our soul and spirit hungers for Him the more and always. He wanted to make Himself the bread which is broken so that everyone can be nourished by His very life through participation in the sacrament of His Body and Blood.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, it is right that we should give You thanks and glory: You are the one God, living and true. Through all eternity You live in unapproachable light. Source of life and goodness, You have created all things, to fill Your creatures with every blessing and lead all men to the joyful vision of Your light. Countless hosts of angels stand before You to do Your will; they look upon Your splendor and praise You, night and day. United with them, and in the name of every creature under heaven, we too praise Your glory, forever.
Sing with joy to God our help.
They all ate and were satisfied… about five thousand men, not counting women and children.
------------------------------------------------
We were both tired and hungry. The whole morning was spent talking to doctors, buying some needed medicines and medical stuffs, checking the bill, talking to visiting friends and relatives. It was 2 o’clock in the afternoon and we haven’t really eaten our lunch. Then, suddenly, a knock was heard on the door. A friend of my wife visited and brought some food. Whew, what a relief, what an answered prayer!
The Miracle of Multiplication of the Bread and Fish is an amazing miracle which marks in a way the beginning of a long historical process: the uninterrupted multiplication in the Church of the Bread of new life for the people of every race and culture. This sacramental ministry is entrusted to the Apostles and to their successors. And they, faithful to the divine Master's command, never cease to break and distribute the Eucharistic bread from generation to generation. With this Bread of life, a remedy of immortality, countless saints and martyrs were nourished and from it drew the strength to resist even harsh and prolonged sufferings.
Our body hungers for food once in a while, but our soul and spirit hungers for Him the more and always. He wanted to make Himself the bread which is broken so that everyone can be nourished by His very life through participation in the sacrament of His Body and Blood.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, it is right that we should give You thanks and glory: You are the one God, living and true. Through all eternity You live in unapproachable light. Source of life and goodness, You have created all things, to fill Your creatures with every blessing and lead all men to the joyful vision of Your light. Countless hosts of angels stand before You to do Your will; they look upon Your splendor and praise You, night and day. United with them, and in the name of every creature under heaven, we too praise Your glory, forever.
Sing with joy to God our help.
Sunday, August 2, 2009
HIS GOODNESS
John 6:33
For the bread of God is that which comes down from heaven and gives life to the world…
------------------------------------------------
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 Eucharist, the sacrament of our salvation accomplished by Christ on the cross, is also a sacrifice of praise in thanksgiving for the work of creation. In the Eucharistic sacrifice the whole of creation loved by God is presented to the Father through the death and the Resurrection of Christ. Through Christ the Church can offer the sacrifice of praise in thanksgiving for all that God has made good, beautiful, and just in creation and in humanity.
The Eucharist is a sacrifice of thanksgiving to the Father, a blessing by which the Church expresses her gratitude to God for all his benefits, for all that he has accomplished through creation, redemption, and sanctification. Eucharist means first of all “thanksgiving”.
All of us were called by Jesus as His people, as His disciples, as His friends. And as one body, we dedicate our lives in following His will, seeking His love and mercy and partaking in His life, death and resurrection. By giving Himself to us, Christ revives our love and enables us to break our disordered attachments to earthly creatures and root ourselves in Him. Receive Him, wholeheartedly, working for our good and the good of His Church.
Almighty Father, Whose promises give us hope, we eat this covenant meal before You today. You have agreed to receive us who believe in Your son. You sealed Your covenant with His blood. We, even in our faltering faith, believe in Your son. We thank you for his life which is given to us, Amen +
Man ate the bread of angels, food He sent them in abundance.
For the bread of God is that which comes down from heaven and gives life to the world…
------------------------------------------------
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 Eucharist, the sacrament of our salvation accomplished by Christ on the cross, is also a sacrifice of praise in thanksgiving for the work of creation. In the Eucharistic sacrifice the whole of creation loved by God is presented to the Father through the death and the Resurrection of Christ. Through Christ the Church can offer the sacrifice of praise in thanksgiving for all that God has made good, beautiful, and just in creation and in humanity.
The Eucharist is a sacrifice of thanksgiving to the Father, a blessing by which the Church expresses her gratitude to God for all his benefits, for all that he has accomplished through creation, redemption, and sanctification. Eucharist means first of all “thanksgiving”.
All of us were called by Jesus as His people, as His disciples, as His friends. And as one body, we dedicate our lives in following His will, seeking His love and mercy and partaking in His life, death and resurrection. By giving Himself to us, Christ revives our love and enables us to break our disordered attachments to earthly creatures and root ourselves in Him. Receive Him, wholeheartedly, working for our good and the good of His Church.
Almighty Father, Whose promises give us hope, we eat this covenant meal before You today. You have agreed to receive us who believe in Your son. You sealed Your covenant with His blood. We, even in our faltering faith, believe in Your son. We thank you for his life which is given to us, Amen +
Man ate the bread of angels, food He sent them in abundance.
Saturday, August 1, 2009
HIS BLESSINGS
Psalms 67:7
The earth has yielded its fruits; God, our God, has blessed us.
--------------------------------------------
We are truly thankful for receiving great blessings. However, most of us always think that we are given these blessings for our only own consumption. And even more of us would be very dependent and concerned about them that we seriously neglect other important aspects of our life. Our dependence is to be on God and not on money. "Where your treasure is," warned Christ, "there your heart will be also.”
God sees whether we honor Him with the blessings He gives us, how we care for our families and how we treat the poor. The Scriptures teach us not to set our heart on riches but to help people in genuine need and generously support the work of sharing God's truth with others. Such priorities are an important part of loving our neighbors as ourselves. We should seek to live a balanced life, putting our finances into proper perspective.
In bestowing His own blessing, God declares His goodness. We in turn bless God by praising Him, thanking Him for all of His benefits and offering to Him our service, adoration and worship. When we invoke God's blessing, we implore His divine benevolence, trusting that He will respond to our needs. Be truly happy and thankful that God has promised to bless man in such a way that man can easily become a recipient of God's blessings.
Is your heart – and your treasure – focused primarily on things of this life, or is it focused on God in heaven? God bless you!
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, may the work I do bring growth in this life to me and those I love and help to extend the Kingdom of Christ. Give all persons work that draws them to You and to each other in cheerful service. I beg Your blessing upon all my efforts. With Saint Joseph as my example and guide, help me to do the work You have asked and come to the reward You have prepared.
Amen +
O God, let all the nations praise you!
The earth has yielded its fruits; God, our God, has blessed us.
--------------------------------------------
We are truly thankful for receiving great blessings. However, most of us always think that we are given these blessings for our only own consumption. And even more of us would be very dependent and concerned about them that we seriously neglect other important aspects of our life. Our dependence is to be on God and not on money. "Where your treasure is," warned Christ, "there your heart will be also.”
God sees whether we honor Him with the blessings He gives us, how we care for our families and how we treat the poor. The Scriptures teach us not to set our heart on riches but to help people in genuine need and generously support the work of sharing God's truth with others. Such priorities are an important part of loving our neighbors as ourselves. We should seek to live a balanced life, putting our finances into proper perspective.
In bestowing His own blessing, God declares His goodness. We in turn bless God by praising Him, thanking Him for all of His benefits and offering to Him our service, adoration and worship. When we invoke God's blessing, we implore His divine benevolence, trusting that He will respond to our needs. Be truly happy and thankful that God has promised to bless man in such a way that man can easily become a recipient of God's blessings.
Is your heart – and your treasure – focused primarily on things of this life, or is it focused on God in heaven? God bless you!
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, may the work I do bring growth in this life to me and those I love and help to extend the Kingdom of Christ. Give all persons work that draws them to You and to each other in cheerful service. I beg Your blessing upon all my efforts. With Saint Joseph as my example and guide, help me to do the work You have asked and come to the reward You have prepared.
Amen +
O God, let all the nations praise you!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)