Luke 4:21
“Today this Scripture passage is fulfilled in your hearing.”
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After a very long wait, the Messiah has come. But the Jews would not accept that it would be Jesus. They expect someone mighty who would free them from the Romans.
But Jesus would insist… He is the fulfillment of God’s promise. And for that reason, He would live in constant danger. But He knows that the Father will be with Him until His mission is accomplished.
Two-thousand years ago, Jesus has fulfilled what has been prophesied. It was really an honor for those who heard Him and see Him work for the glory of God and for our salvation.
And today, we are all called to share the same. Today, the scripture can be fulfilled in our hearing when we decide to join our voices with others and speak the truth and the only truth, who is Jesus Christ.
If we try to live our faith, at some point we will be challenged to speak the hard truth and do the hard task, and suffer the uncomfortable consequences.
Will God really stand by us in our anguish?
Can we muster enough trust to “walk our talk” and not worry too much about the outcome?
“Today this passage has been fulfilled” is now true only when we ourselves respond to those around us who need a nourishing, strengthening, joyful, meaningful, healing Word.
Let us pray +
Loving God, you called us each by name and gave your only Son to redeem us. Send us the Holy Spirit to continue the mission of Jesus among us. Give us the courage to speak his name to those who are close to us. And grant us the generosity to share his love with those who most need it. Amen +
I will sing of your salvation.
Sunday, January 31, 2010
Saturday, January 30, 2010
BE NOT AFRAID (1-30-10)
Mark 4:40
“Why are you terrified? Do you not yet have faith?”
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F E A R… it is also an acronym…
“False Evidence Appearing Real”
Fear can appear and make you see a false reality, but Fear is never a reality!
Problems would come. Sufferings would be experienced. But it we face both with fear, then they would never go away. We would always be seeing a false reality that would hinder our growth both emotionally and spiritually.
The choices we make today shape our future tomorrow. Are you going to let your fears keep you from being and doing what is best for your tomorrow? Are you willing to make changes in your life now?
And our only choice is to put ourselves in God’s presence always.
Not everything about God can be explained by human logic most of the time. There is always an element of faith involved to trust that he will work for the good of those who love Him.
And don’t worry if your faith feels small or practically nonexistent. God does amazing things with very, very little.
So the next time you experience storms in your life, allow Him to calm all of your fears as you place your trust in Him.
Face the reality head on… take away fear and trust in the Lord always.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, give me the faith to see more of your purposes come to past. Whatsoever this life may bring us, grant that it may never take from us the full faith that You are our Father. Grant us Your light, that we may have life, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen +
Create a clean heart in me, O God.
“Why are you terrified? Do you not yet have faith?”
---------------------------------------------
F E A R… it is also an acronym…
“False Evidence Appearing Real”
Fear can appear and make you see a false reality, but Fear is never a reality!
Problems would come. Sufferings would be experienced. But it we face both with fear, then they would never go away. We would always be seeing a false reality that would hinder our growth both emotionally and spiritually.
The choices we make today shape our future tomorrow. Are you going to let your fears keep you from being and doing what is best for your tomorrow? Are you willing to make changes in your life now?
And our only choice is to put ourselves in God’s presence always.
Not everything about God can be explained by human logic most of the time. There is always an element of faith involved to trust that he will work for the good of those who love Him.
And don’t worry if your faith feels small or practically nonexistent. God does amazing things with very, very little.
So the next time you experience storms in your life, allow Him to calm all of your fears as you place your trust in Him.
Face the reality head on… take away fear and trust in the Lord always.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, give me the faith to see more of your purposes come to past. Whatsoever this life may bring us, grant that it may never take from us the full faith that You are our Father. Grant us Your light, that we may have life, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen +
Create a clean heart in me, O God.
Friday, January 29, 2010
THE KINGDOM (1-29-10)
Mark 4:30
“To what shall we compare the Kingdom of God, or what parable can we use for it?”
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Since the Kingdom of God is not visible to the naked eye, Jesus would describe the Kingdom through various parables and explain them fully to His disciples so they may understand.
And we are all fortunate for there are a lot of scholars and preachers that can explain to us fully these parables.
However, by just opening our hearts, we can truly understand this. For our hearts see and understand far more beautiful things than our eyes.
Jesus is teaching us that the Kingdom of God is within our grasp if we can learn to love God with all our soul, with all our heart, and with all our mind, and to love our neighbors as ourselves.
God’s Kingdom is less a place or an idea. It is a total commitment to love one another.
It is through our love of one another that we become the people of God willing to work to bring about God’s Kingdom on the earth in the present time.
Come, and join His Kingdom…
…open your heart and see the beauty of it all.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, reign forever in our hearts as we seek heaven and to be with You. Your holy name would constantly be uttered by our lips as we await in joyful hope for the coming of Your kingdom. We trust in You and obey You, for Your will be done, here on earth as it is in heaven. Amen +
Be merciful, O Lord, for we have sinned.
“To what shall we compare the Kingdom of God, or what parable can we use for it?”
---------------------------------------------------
Since the Kingdom of God is not visible to the naked eye, Jesus would describe the Kingdom through various parables and explain them fully to His disciples so they may understand.
And we are all fortunate for there are a lot of scholars and preachers that can explain to us fully these parables.
However, by just opening our hearts, we can truly understand this. For our hearts see and understand far more beautiful things than our eyes.
Jesus is teaching us that the Kingdom of God is within our grasp if we can learn to love God with all our soul, with all our heart, and with all our mind, and to love our neighbors as ourselves.
God’s Kingdom is less a place or an idea. It is a total commitment to love one another.
It is through our love of one another that we become the people of God willing to work to bring about God’s Kingdom on the earth in the present time.
Come, and join His Kingdom…
…open your heart and see the beauty of it all.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, reign forever in our hearts as we seek heaven and to be with You. Your holy name would constantly be uttered by our lips as we await in joyful hope for the coming of Your kingdom. We trust in You and obey You, for Your will be done, here on earth as it is in heaven. Amen +
Be merciful, O Lord, for we have sinned.
Thursday, January 28, 2010
A LIGHT TO OTHERS (1-28-10)
Mark 4:21
Is a lamp brought in to be placed under a bushel basket or under a bed, and not to be placed on a lampstand?
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Power outage… need a flashlight.
Entering a tunnel… turn on the headlight.
Darkness of the heart… kneel, pray, look to the Light.
Some, if not most of us, has already seen the light – that is, our Lord Jesus Christ. But should we keep this truth to ourselves?
The Lord is clear that we should not. We should share this joy and inspiration to others so they may also experience life to the fullest with Him. We do not keep the light to ourselves, or else, it would mean nothing.
Only when we share it with others would it mean so much to us, to others and to the Lord.
In life, we are always inspiring someone, somewhere to some degree.
But we can also inspire others NOT to follow our actions by the negative results that we get in life.
Share the light of Jesus.
Live a life that is fulfilling so that others may see that light through you, constantly illuminating your life and that of others.
Let us pray +
Lord Jesus, Give your light through me and remain in me in such a way that every soul I come in contact with can feel your presence in me. May people not see me, but see you in me. Remain in me, so that I shine with your light, and may others be illuminated by my light. Not even the smallest ray of light will be mine. You will illuminate others through me. Amen +
I will give my eyes no sleep… till I find a home for the LORD.
Is a lamp brought in to be placed under a bushel basket or under a bed, and not to be placed on a lampstand?
-------------------------------------------------
Power outage… need a flashlight.
Entering a tunnel… turn on the headlight.
Darkness of the heart… kneel, pray, look to the Light.
Some, if not most of us, has already seen the light – that is, our Lord Jesus Christ. But should we keep this truth to ourselves?
The Lord is clear that we should not. We should share this joy and inspiration to others so they may also experience life to the fullest with Him. We do not keep the light to ourselves, or else, it would mean nothing.
Only when we share it with others would it mean so much to us, to others and to the Lord.
In life, we are always inspiring someone, somewhere to some degree.
But we can also inspire others NOT to follow our actions by the negative results that we get in life.
Share the light of Jesus.
Live a life that is fulfilling so that others may see that light through you, constantly illuminating your life and that of others.
Let us pray +
Lord Jesus, Give your light through me and remain in me in such a way that every soul I come in contact with can feel your presence in me. May people not see me, but see you in me. Remain in me, so that I shine with your light, and may others be illuminated by my light. Not even the smallest ray of light will be mine. You will illuminate others through me. Amen +
I will give my eyes no sleep… till I find a home for the LORD.
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
BEYOND SACRIFICE (1-27-10)
Mark 4:17
Then when tribulation or persecution comes because of the word, they quickly fall away.
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It happened to me. One day, I was singing and worshipping God for all the good things He has done to me.
Then the next day, I totally forgotten Him. Why? Because of a money problem. Since He is punishing me (yes, that’s what I thought back then), then I will “punish” Him also.
How? I will stop going to Church for a month, sometimes longer. I would stop singing songs for Him. I would do things that He hates the most.
Did I succeed? Sad to say, no.
Did God succeed? I hope yes… for it is really up to me and not up to Him. All I need is to trust and believe in Him. All I need is to listen to His Words. All I need is to love Him.
There is no better sacrifice than for us to offer ourselves to God. This includes surrendering our lives, both spiritual and physical, to Almighty God, who is Creator over us all.
Surrendering is not easily attained because surrender means to give up control. Many of us feel we have lost ourselves if we give up control. Yet, the Word says in Matthew 10:39, “He who finds his life will lose it, and he who loses his life for my sake will find it.”
Know God's will for your life by listening to that still small voice inside of you. Let Him succeed in You.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, let me follow Your will. Teach me to trust Your sense of timing rather than my own and to surrender my will to Your greater and wiser plan. Help me let life unfold slowly, slow enough to appreciate life and all it holds. Amen +
For ever I will maintain my love for my servant.
Then when tribulation or persecution comes because of the word, they quickly fall away.
-----------------------------------------------
It happened to me. One day, I was singing and worshipping God for all the good things He has done to me.
Then the next day, I totally forgotten Him. Why? Because of a money problem. Since He is punishing me (yes, that’s what I thought back then), then I will “punish” Him also.
How? I will stop going to Church for a month, sometimes longer. I would stop singing songs for Him. I would do things that He hates the most.
Did I succeed? Sad to say, no.
Did God succeed? I hope yes… for it is really up to me and not up to Him. All I need is to trust and believe in Him. All I need is to listen to His Words. All I need is to love Him.
There is no better sacrifice than for us to offer ourselves to God. This includes surrendering our lives, both spiritual and physical, to Almighty God, who is Creator over us all.
Surrendering is not easily attained because surrender means to give up control. Many of us feel we have lost ourselves if we give up control. Yet, the Word says in Matthew 10:39, “He who finds his life will lose it, and he who loses his life for my sake will find it.”
Know God's will for your life by listening to that still small voice inside of you. Let Him succeed in You.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, let me follow Your will. Teach me to trust Your sense of timing rather than my own and to surrender my will to Your greater and wiser plan. Help me let life unfold slowly, slow enough to appreciate life and all it holds. Amen +
For ever I will maintain my love for my servant.
Monday, January 25, 2010
POWER OF LOVE (1-26-10)
2 Timothy 1:7
For God did not give us a spirit of cowardice but rather of power and love and self-control.
--------------------------------------------
Philippine election day is around the corner. We will be choosing our new President to replace the incumbent one who held on to power for 9 years. In fact, she is running for congress just to hold on.
Man has always been impressed with power and has always been crazy about the search for, acquisition of, and demonstration of power.
The message of the world is that power is good and weakness is bad. That the one with the power calls the shots and determines that the outcome of things most important to him will ultimately end in his favor.
But the message from God is different.
Do you want to see some real power?
Then look no further than the cross of Jesus Christ. First and foremost, look back at what He has done for our salvation. The word, the message, the testimony of the cross IS the power of God.
You only need to seek Him for all the power you will ever need to smell, taste, touch, hear, or see.
It can be found anytime through simple faith. Grab that power… it is yours for the taking.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, You are our power, our strength. We are weak. Bless us with a measure of strength, as may be sufficient. When tempted by evil, deliver us, by granting us the power to overcome it. When daily work is too hard, give us the strength to be able to do it. Amen +
Proclaim God’s marvelous deeds to all the nations.
For God did not give us a spirit of cowardice but rather of power and love and self-control.
--------------------------------------------
Philippine election day is around the corner. We will be choosing our new President to replace the incumbent one who held on to power for 9 years. In fact, she is running for congress just to hold on.
Man has always been impressed with power and has always been crazy about the search for, acquisition of, and demonstration of power.
The message of the world is that power is good and weakness is bad. That the one with the power calls the shots and determines that the outcome of things most important to him will ultimately end in his favor.
But the message from God is different.
Do you want to see some real power?
Then look no further than the cross of Jesus Christ. First and foremost, look back at what He has done for our salvation. The word, the message, the testimony of the cross IS the power of God.
You only need to seek Him for all the power you will ever need to smell, taste, touch, hear, or see.
It can be found anytime through simple faith. Grab that power… it is yours for the taking.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, You are our power, our strength. We are weak. Bless us with a measure of strength, as may be sufficient. When tempted by evil, deliver us, by granting us the power to overcome it. When daily work is too hard, give us the strength to be able to do it. Amen +
Proclaim God’s marvelous deeds to all the nations.
PROCLAIM THE GOSPEL (1-25-10)
Conversion of St. Paul
Mark 16:15
"Go into the whole world and proclaim the gospel to every creature.”
-----------------------------------------
A flash of light, and he is down… he cannot see anything. He basically cannot do anything.
When in fact, just yesterday, he was on a killing spree. Killing Christians simply because they believe in something called the Truth.
And on that day, that same Truth would begin to transform him. Ananias the disciple then came to see him, and helped him see the Truth.
He was baptized and was able to see again.
Saul, who was renamed Paul, was chosen by the Lord to be an instrument to carry His name before the Gentiles (non-Jews), kings and Israelites alike. And his readiness to leave the past behind and entrust himself totally to the challenging plans of God kept him alive, strong and, excited until the last moment of his life.
Each of us has been called by God to go forth and proclaim the message of the Gospel of Jesus Christ to all creatures. You may now be blinded by your sins so you fail to see this eternal truth. Let Him open your eyes and strengthen you as together, we proclaim the good news to every creature of this world.
St. Paul readily accepted Jesus and took the challenge of suffering, not against Him, but rather in His name. Are you willing to do the same?
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, by the preaching of Your apostle Paul You have caused the light of the Gospel to shine throughout the world. Grant, we pray, that we, having his wonderful conversion in remembrance, may show ourselves thankful to You by following his holy teaching; and have the courage to proclaim to the world Your love and Your promise of salvation. Amen +
Go out to all the world and tell the Good News.
Mark 16:15
"Go into the whole world and proclaim the gospel to every creature.”
-----------------------------------------
A flash of light, and he is down… he cannot see anything. He basically cannot do anything.
When in fact, just yesterday, he was on a killing spree. Killing Christians simply because they believe in something called the Truth.
And on that day, that same Truth would begin to transform him. Ananias the disciple then came to see him, and helped him see the Truth.
He was baptized and was able to see again.
Saul, who was renamed Paul, was chosen by the Lord to be an instrument to carry His name before the Gentiles (non-Jews), kings and Israelites alike. And his readiness to leave the past behind and entrust himself totally to the challenging plans of God kept him alive, strong and, excited until the last moment of his life.
Each of us has been called by God to go forth and proclaim the message of the Gospel of Jesus Christ to all creatures. You may now be blinded by your sins so you fail to see this eternal truth. Let Him open your eyes and strengthen you as together, we proclaim the good news to every creature of this world.
St. Paul readily accepted Jesus and took the challenge of suffering, not against Him, but rather in His name. Are you willing to do the same?
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, by the preaching of Your apostle Paul You have caused the light of the Gospel to shine throughout the world. Grant, we pray, that we, having his wonderful conversion in remembrance, may show ourselves thankful to You by following his holy teaching; and have the courage to proclaim to the world Your love and Your promise of salvation. Amen +
Go out to all the world and tell the Good News.
Sunday, January 24, 2010
PRAISED BY ALL (1-24-10)
Luke 4:14-15
Jesus returned to Galilee in the power of the Spirit, and news of him spread throughout the whole region. He taught…and was praised by all.
-------------------------------------------
We would receive some sort of praise from our friends, family or colleagues for doing something good or achieving things that others may consider extraordinary. And we would feel really proud for being praised.
Though being praised by all for His great teachings, Jesus would remain humble until the end. He knows from the start that His primary reason for being here on earth is to spread the Good News of salvation for all.
And He did not only say it, but lived and died for it. And due to this, all the more that He is worthy of our praise and worship.
From Psalm 150: “Praise the LORD. Praise God in his sanctuary; praise him in his mighty heavens. Praise him for his acts of power; praise him for his surpassing greatness. Praise him with the sounding of the trumpet, praise him with the harp and lyre, praise him with tambourine and dancing, praise him with the strings and flute, praise him with the clash of cymbals, praise him with resounding cymbals. Let everything that has breath praise the LORD. Praise the LORD.”
Never stop worshiping and loving Jesus, He is worthy of all our praise and passion!
Let us pray +
Lord Jesus, let us praise You forever. You are our Lord and our King and because of You, we can now experience the joy of being with You and the Father in heaven. Continue to bless us, O Lord and may we continue to worship and glorify Your mighty name. Amen +
Your words, Lord, are Spirit and life.
Jesus returned to Galilee in the power of the Spirit, and news of him spread throughout the whole region. He taught…and was praised by all.
-------------------------------------------
We would receive some sort of praise from our friends, family or colleagues for doing something good or achieving things that others may consider extraordinary. And we would feel really proud for being praised.
Though being praised by all for His great teachings, Jesus would remain humble until the end. He knows from the start that His primary reason for being here on earth is to spread the Good News of salvation for all.
And He did not only say it, but lived and died for it. And due to this, all the more that He is worthy of our praise and worship.
From Psalm 150: “Praise the LORD. Praise God in his sanctuary; praise him in his mighty heavens. Praise him for his acts of power; praise him for his surpassing greatness. Praise him with the sounding of the trumpet, praise him with the harp and lyre, praise him with tambourine and dancing, praise him with the strings and flute, praise him with the clash of cymbals, praise him with resounding cymbals. Let everything that has breath praise the LORD. Praise the LORD.”
Never stop worshiping and loving Jesus, He is worthy of all our praise and passion!
Let us pray +
Lord Jesus, let us praise You forever. You are our Lord and our King and because of You, we can now experience the joy of being with You and the Father in heaven. Continue to bless us, O Lord and may we continue to worship and glorify Your mighty name. Amen +
Your words, Lord, are Spirit and life.
Saturday, January 23, 2010
INSANITY (1-23-10)
Mark 3:21
“He is out of His mind.”
------------------------------------
When we try to introduce something new or different, we are sometimes called “weird”. It could either be us or the idea we are presenting.
However, this immediate reaction from other people only means that they are not willing to accept the “abnormal” that would change their “normal” life. They are contented already with what they have.
But Einstein would put it differently, when he remarked, “Insanity is expecting different results while doing the same thing over and over again”.
You want to improve your company’s performance, but you are not willing to invest on training or to hire the best people and just settle for mediocre one.
You want your family to love you, but you still put your vices and friends above them.
You want to be in Heaven, but you still wallow in sins.
The gospel reminds us today that the choice to follow Jesus is the only right one, even though it means insanity for some.
Nothing is more important than doing the will of God, because only in that way does a person becomes a child of God, and a brother or sister of Jesus.
So, are you out of your mind?
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, teach us to love you more and more. Our lives today may be away from you, but we know that through Your infinite love and mercy, we would someday fully know you and be ready to join You in Heaven. Others may think that we are insanely in love with you, but I don’t mind as long as we know that only Your will is what we do. Amen +
Let us see your face, Lord, and we shall be saved.
“He is out of His mind.”
------------------------------------
When we try to introduce something new or different, we are sometimes called “weird”. It could either be us or the idea we are presenting.
However, this immediate reaction from other people only means that they are not willing to accept the “abnormal” that would change their “normal” life. They are contented already with what they have.
But Einstein would put it differently, when he remarked, “Insanity is expecting different results while doing the same thing over and over again”.
You want to improve your company’s performance, but you are not willing to invest on training or to hire the best people and just settle for mediocre one.
You want your family to love you, but you still put your vices and friends above them.
You want to be in Heaven, but you still wallow in sins.
The gospel reminds us today that the choice to follow Jesus is the only right one, even though it means insanity for some.
Nothing is more important than doing the will of God, because only in that way does a person becomes a child of God, and a brother or sister of Jesus.
So, are you out of your mind?
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, teach us to love you more and more. Our lives today may be away from you, but we know that through Your infinite love and mercy, we would someday fully know you and be ready to join You in Heaven. Others may think that we are insanely in love with you, but I don’t mind as long as we know that only Your will is what we do. Amen +
Let us see your face, Lord, and we shall be saved.
Friday, January 22, 2010
HAVE MERCY (1-22-10)
Psalms 57:2
Have mercy on me, O God; have mercy on me, for in you I take refuge.
----------------------------------------------
In Spanish, “thank you” is “gracias”.
In French, “thank you” is “merci”.
And to God, we are entitled to both – His grace and mercy. So, all the more that He is entitled to our eternal gratitude, worship and love.
A common adage says that Grace gives what we do not deserve, i.e., Eternal Life, while Mercy withholds what we do deserve, i.e., Eternal Punishment.
But, Mercy goes much deeper than that.
It is the Lovingkindness of God.
Out of God's mercy he rescues from difficulty; out of his mercy he saves the powerless; out of his mercy he heals the sick.
Because God has been merciful to us, we have reason to be merciful in our actions toward those who are in need. The poverty of others – both material and spiritual – is our opportunity to be like our Father. Their trouble is our opportunity to help.
If we belong to him--if we are being delivered from sin because of God's mercy – we have a reason to be forever grateful to our heavenly Father.
Thank God always – for His love, grace and mercy.
Let us pray +
Oh Lord, show your mercy to me and gladden my heart. I am like the sheep
that went astray: O Good Shepherd, seek me out and bring me home in accord with your will. Let me dwell in your house all the days of my life
and praise you forever and ever. Amen + (Prayer of St. Jerome)
Have mercy on me, God, have mercy.
Have mercy on me, O God; have mercy on me, for in you I take refuge.
----------------------------------------------
In Spanish, “thank you” is “gracias”.
In French, “thank you” is “merci”.
And to God, we are entitled to both – His grace and mercy. So, all the more that He is entitled to our eternal gratitude, worship and love.
A common adage says that Grace gives what we do not deserve, i.e., Eternal Life, while Mercy withholds what we do deserve, i.e., Eternal Punishment.
But, Mercy goes much deeper than that.
It is the Lovingkindness of God.
Out of God's mercy he rescues from difficulty; out of his mercy he saves the powerless; out of his mercy he heals the sick.
Because God has been merciful to us, we have reason to be merciful in our actions toward those who are in need. The poverty of others – both material and spiritual – is our opportunity to be like our Father. Their trouble is our opportunity to help.
If we belong to him--if we are being delivered from sin because of God's mercy – we have a reason to be forever grateful to our heavenly Father.
Thank God always – for His love, grace and mercy.
Let us pray +
Oh Lord, show your mercy to me and gladden my heart. I am like the sheep
that went astray: O Good Shepherd, seek me out and bring me home in accord with your will. Let me dwell in your house all the days of my life
and praise you forever and ever. Amen + (Prayer of St. Jerome)
Have mercy on me, God, have mercy.
Thursday, January 21, 2010
TRUST WITHOUT FEAR (1-21-10)
Psalms 56:10-12
Now I know that God is with me. In God, in whose promise I glory, in God I trust without fear; what can flesh do against me?
------------------------------------------------
Today’s first reading takes into account the day when David slain Goliath. We all know the story… we all know what happened… we all know how David did it…
…but we do not know how to apply it to our lives.
I felt afraid, angry or upset when what I call big problems or challenges comes. In effect, my attitude clouds my mind and eventually forgot the only path towards a resolution.
That I only need to seek God.
It is not the sling or the stone that killed Goliath, but rather David’s trust and love for the Lord. His whole self has become an instrument of God to finally conquer the Philistines and bring peace to Israel.
When everyone was afraid, David stood tall!
As we face the Goliaths in our life, spend a quiet time talking to God, alone. Allow him to fill your heart with the Holy Spirit so you may see the problem as not so overwhelming. Allow Him to give you the courage and strength to overcome any problems.
When was the last time you faced squarely – head-on – the Goliath in your life. Let your love of God conquer anything and everything… even problems that seem 10 feet tall.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, what it is that You want me to learn? Let me live my life according to Your overall instructions, constantly reminding myself that You alone can provide us the real love that we so desperately search for. Give us the courage, strength and clarity of mind in facing the goliaths of our lives, that we may conquer them in Your name. Amen +
In God I trust; I shall not fear.
Now I know that God is with me. In God, in whose promise I glory, in God I trust without fear; what can flesh do against me?
------------------------------------------------
Today’s first reading takes into account the day when David slain Goliath. We all know the story… we all know what happened… we all know how David did it…
…but we do not know how to apply it to our lives.
I felt afraid, angry or upset when what I call big problems or challenges comes. In effect, my attitude clouds my mind and eventually forgot the only path towards a resolution.
That I only need to seek God.
It is not the sling or the stone that killed Goliath, but rather David’s trust and love for the Lord. His whole self has become an instrument of God to finally conquer the Philistines and bring peace to Israel.
When everyone was afraid, David stood tall!
As we face the Goliaths in our life, spend a quiet time talking to God, alone. Allow him to fill your heart with the Holy Spirit so you may see the problem as not so overwhelming. Allow Him to give you the courage and strength to overcome any problems.
When was the last time you faced squarely – head-on – the Goliath in your life. Let your love of God conquer anything and everything… even problems that seem 10 feet tall.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, what it is that You want me to learn? Let me live my life according to Your overall instructions, constantly reminding myself that You alone can provide us the real love that we so desperately search for. Give us the courage, strength and clarity of mind in facing the goliaths of our lives, that we may conquer them in Your name. Amen +
In God I trust; I shall not fear.
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
BE RESTORED (1-20-10)
Mark 3:5
Jesus said to the man, “Stretch out your hand.” He stretched it out and his hand was restored.
-------------------------------------
In the face of so many problems we are facing, we still try to avoid God. We would rather cry alone than let Him cry with us.
And yet, He is asking us to reach out to Him…
…but our pride overcomes us.
We failed to realize that with a simple act of obedience, we would all be healed of all our sufferings.
Our love for God frees us to the restoration and reconciliation that only comes from serving Jesus Christ as our Savior. It is a love born out of obedience and trust in a Sovereign and living God.
When we love God that way and are obedient to Him, then it also frees us to love others.
Do you love? Do you obey? We do not need an angel coming to us in a dream to challenge us to follow God. Instead, we have God’s greatest messenger, His Son, our Savior, Jesus Christ to follow, to serve, to depend upon, and to love.
Go on, and reach out to Him… and be healed of all sufferings and things that make us weak. Be restored in Him for only His love can heal us – His love for you… His love for all of us.
Let us pray +
Heavenly Father, who loved us so much that You sent Your Son, born of a virgin who was engaged to a righteous man, we are so grateful for Your unselfish act of creation. We know that there is nothing we can do to repay You for this wonderful gift, so we offer to You our lives, our beings, our obedience, and we ask that You would help us to live as You call us to live. In Jesus’ precious name we pray, Amen +
My refuge and my fortress, my stronghold, my deliverer…
Jesus said to the man, “Stretch out your hand.” He stretched it out and his hand was restored.
-------------------------------------
In the face of so many problems we are facing, we still try to avoid God. We would rather cry alone than let Him cry with us.
And yet, He is asking us to reach out to Him…
…but our pride overcomes us.
We failed to realize that with a simple act of obedience, we would all be healed of all our sufferings.
Our love for God frees us to the restoration and reconciliation that only comes from serving Jesus Christ as our Savior. It is a love born out of obedience and trust in a Sovereign and living God.
When we love God that way and are obedient to Him, then it also frees us to love others.
Do you love? Do you obey? We do not need an angel coming to us in a dream to challenge us to follow God. Instead, we have God’s greatest messenger, His Son, our Savior, Jesus Christ to follow, to serve, to depend upon, and to love.
Go on, and reach out to Him… and be healed of all sufferings and things that make us weak. Be restored in Him for only His love can heal us – His love for you… His love for all of us.
Let us pray +
Heavenly Father, who loved us so much that You sent Your Son, born of a virgin who was engaged to a righteous man, we are so grateful for Your unselfish act of creation. We know that there is nothing we can do to repay You for this wonderful gift, so we offer to You our lives, our beings, our obedience, and we ask that You would help us to live as You call us to live. In Jesus’ precious name we pray, Amen +
My refuge and my fortress, my stronghold, my deliverer…
LORD OF SABBATH (1-19-10)
Mark 2:27-28
“The sabbath was made for man, not man for the sabbath. That is why the Son of Man is lord even of the sabbath.”
------------------------------------------------
And on the seventh day, God rested… you might ask, so God also gets tired? How come?
No, He did not get tired. It’s just that He took that opportune time to marvel at His creation. And everything was created specifically for us, for us to cultivate and care for.
And God doesn’t get tired. He continually showers us with all the things that we need so we may always remember Him. This is because He does not get tired of loving us. Since the creation to now, He has shown that love for us, even sacrificing His son for our salvation.
So, it is only worthy to put aside one day in a week for us to rest also. It provides us time to commune with God through worship, prayer, song, the study of His Word, through sharing the gospel with others, and fellowship with people and nature.
It provides opportunity to experience God’s presence through companionship in a special way.
Traditional activities (sport, restaurants, etc.), and social necessities (public services, etc.), require some people to work on Sundays, but everyone should still take care to set aside sufficient time for rest and divine worship.
Let us pray +
Lord Jesus, give me rest. I offer you this day and all the moments of this week, and I implore you to keep me safe from sin. To this end I place myself in your sacred side and under the mantle of our Lady, my Mother. Let your holy angels surround us with peace; and let your blessing be upon us always. Amen +
“He shall say of me, ‘You are my father, my God, the Rock, my savior.’
“The sabbath was made for man, not man for the sabbath. That is why the Son of Man is lord even of the sabbath.”
------------------------------------------------
And on the seventh day, God rested… you might ask, so God also gets tired? How come?
No, He did not get tired. It’s just that He took that opportune time to marvel at His creation. And everything was created specifically for us, for us to cultivate and care for.
And God doesn’t get tired. He continually showers us with all the things that we need so we may always remember Him. This is because He does not get tired of loving us. Since the creation to now, He has shown that love for us, even sacrificing His son for our salvation.
So, it is only worthy to put aside one day in a week for us to rest also. It provides us time to commune with God through worship, prayer, song, the study of His Word, through sharing the gospel with others, and fellowship with people and nature.
It provides opportunity to experience God’s presence through companionship in a special way.
Traditional activities (sport, restaurants, etc.), and social necessities (public services, etc.), require some people to work on Sundays, but everyone should still take care to set aside sufficient time for rest and divine worship.
Let us pray +
Lord Jesus, give me rest. I offer you this day and all the moments of this week, and I implore you to keep me safe from sin. To this end I place myself in your sacred side and under the mantle of our Lady, my Mother. Let your holy angels surround us with peace; and let your blessing be upon us always. Amen +
“He shall say of me, ‘You are my father, my God, the Rock, my savior.’
FRESH START (1-18-10)
Mark 2:22
Rather, new wine is poured into fresh wineskins.
------------------------------------
A new year, a new start.
And like a new wine, we cannot put a “new self” into an old wineskins. We need to change our self for the better and closer to the Lord.
Set goals according to God's direction
It's foolish to make plans without first consulting God.
He's the only one who DOES know the future.
Start by praying, "God, what do YOU want me to do in 2010?"
Live one day at a time
While you can plan for tomorrow, you can't live it until it arrives.
Most people spend so much time regretting the past and worrying about the future, they have no time to enjoy today!
Don't procrastinate
DO IT NOW! - "Don't boast about what you're going to do tomorrow, for you don't know what a day may bring forth." (Proverbs 27:1)
Procrastinating is a subtle trap.
It wastes today by postponing things until tomorrow.
You promise yourself that you'll do it "one of these days." But "one of these days" is usually "none of these days."
What did you plan to get done last year that you didn't do? When do you intend to start working on it?
(a portion from “Purpose Driven Life”)
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, let me change for the better and be closer and closer to You and to Your will. Thank you for all the blessings you provided me last year and may the new year be full of the blessings for me, my family and people around me. Amen +
To the upright I will show the saving power of God.
Rather, new wine is poured into fresh wineskins.
------------------------------------
A new year, a new start.
And like a new wine, we cannot put a “new self” into an old wineskins. We need to change our self for the better and closer to the Lord.
Set goals according to God's direction
It's foolish to make plans without first consulting God.
He's the only one who DOES know the future.
Start by praying, "God, what do YOU want me to do in 2010?"
Live one day at a time
While you can plan for tomorrow, you can't live it until it arrives.
Most people spend so much time regretting the past and worrying about the future, they have no time to enjoy today!
Don't procrastinate
DO IT NOW! - "Don't boast about what you're going to do tomorrow, for you don't know what a day may bring forth." (Proverbs 27:1)
Procrastinating is a subtle trap.
It wastes today by postponing things until tomorrow.
You promise yourself that you'll do it "one of these days." But "one of these days" is usually "none of these days."
What did you plan to get done last year that you didn't do? When do you intend to start working on it?
(a portion from “Purpose Driven Life”)
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, let me change for the better and be closer and closer to You and to Your will. Thank you for all the blessings you provided me last year and may the new year be full of the blessings for me, my family and people around me. Amen +
To the upright I will show the saving power of God.
Sunday, January 17, 2010
CELEBRATE CHILDREN (1-17-10)
John 2:5
His mother said to the servers, “Do whatever he tells you.”
-------------------------------------------
In the Philippines, the third Sunday of January is celebrated as the Feast of Sto. Niño. All roads will lead to either Cebu, Pandacan or Tondo.
For a number of years, I have been a front seat witness to this celebration having grew up in Tondo. Streets will be closed – and tables filled with food and drinks will line up the roads. A lot of sharing, story-telling, family reunions, laughter and merry-making.
The Feast of the Sto. Niño demonstrates the Filipino’s love and fascination with children. Or does it?
Today, about 400,000 abortions are guesstimated to be carried out annually, thousands of children are roaming the streets, dangerously selling things or begging money to make a living at a very tender age.
We have a celebration, indeed, but we celebrate for our own sake, forgetting fully the purpose of our celebration – to celebrate children and pray that they be protected from all harm and evil deeds.
And after this day, people would be back to their own selfish ways, until the next feast. In fact, most will still be paying debts they incurred just to prepare food and drinks until the next fiesta.
Perhaps, next time, we should counterbalance our celebratory religiosity with a faith that reflects on our relationship with the Lord and others, especially the children of the world.
Let us pray +
Oh Jesus, today we pray for the children of our church, for the children of our city, for the children of our world. May each day bring them enough hugs for a smile, enough friends for security, enough adults to provide guidance. May they grow in faith so that they walk as your children, children of grace, joy and peace. Amen + (by Carmen Schrock-Hurst)
Proclaim his marvelous deeds to all the nations.
His mother said to the servers, “Do whatever he tells you.”
-------------------------------------------
In the Philippines, the third Sunday of January is celebrated as the Feast of Sto. Niño. All roads will lead to either Cebu, Pandacan or Tondo.
For a number of years, I have been a front seat witness to this celebration having grew up in Tondo. Streets will be closed – and tables filled with food and drinks will line up the roads. A lot of sharing, story-telling, family reunions, laughter and merry-making.
The Feast of the Sto. Niño demonstrates the Filipino’s love and fascination with children. Or does it?
Today, about 400,000 abortions are guesstimated to be carried out annually, thousands of children are roaming the streets, dangerously selling things or begging money to make a living at a very tender age.
We have a celebration, indeed, but we celebrate for our own sake, forgetting fully the purpose of our celebration – to celebrate children and pray that they be protected from all harm and evil deeds.
And after this day, people would be back to their own selfish ways, until the next feast. In fact, most will still be paying debts they incurred just to prepare food and drinks until the next fiesta.
Perhaps, next time, we should counterbalance our celebratory religiosity with a faith that reflects on our relationship with the Lord and others, especially the children of the world.
Let us pray +
Oh Jesus, today we pray for the children of our church, for the children of our city, for the children of our world. May each day bring them enough hugs for a smile, enough friends for security, enough adults to provide guidance. May they grow in faith so that they walk as your children, children of grace, joy and peace. Amen + (by Carmen Schrock-Hurst)
Proclaim his marvelous deeds to all the nations.
Saturday, January 16, 2010
ANOINTED (1-16-10)
1 Samuel 10:1
“The LORD anoints you commander over his heritage. You are to govern the LORD’s people Israel…”
--------------------------------------------
The practice and notion of "anointing" are found in the Old Testament books of Samuel and Kings. These books recount the beginnings, history and disappearance of the kings of Israel, beginning with Saul, David and Solomon, and ending with the destruction of Jerusalem.
King David and his descendants were all anointed in their office as head and leader of the Chosen People.
Today, we, the Church are also anointed. We receive the same Holy Spirit by believing in the anointed one, Jesus Christ and His Gospel. He is the head of the church and we are connected to him as the body by his Spirit.
Everyone who is baptized with water and Spirit is part of the body of Christ and shares the same anointing. The Spirit lives in us, comes upon us for service, and we are able to influence others lives by his working.
God wants us to acknowledge our dependence on Him. That’s one reason we’re to ask for what we need, even though He knows what we need before we ask.
We need the anointing of the Spirit to be real in us, to teach us all things.
And so we ask.
Let us pray +
Dearest Lord, bless your anointed ones that we may live fully in obedience to Your will. Bless our actions that we may serve You and Your people with humility, and help us live a life that will reflect Your goodness through Your Son Jesus Christ. Amen +
Lord, in your strength the king is glad.
“The LORD anoints you commander over his heritage. You are to govern the LORD’s people Israel…”
--------------------------------------------
The practice and notion of "anointing" are found in the Old Testament books of Samuel and Kings. These books recount the beginnings, history and disappearance of the kings of Israel, beginning with Saul, David and Solomon, and ending with the destruction of Jerusalem.
King David and his descendants were all anointed in their office as head and leader of the Chosen People.
Today, we, the Church are also anointed. We receive the same Holy Spirit by believing in the anointed one, Jesus Christ and His Gospel. He is the head of the church and we are connected to him as the body by his Spirit.
Everyone who is baptized with water and Spirit is part of the body of Christ and shares the same anointing. The Spirit lives in us, comes upon us for service, and we are able to influence others lives by his working.
God wants us to acknowledge our dependence on Him. That’s one reason we’re to ask for what we need, even though He knows what we need before we ask.
We need the anointing of the Spirit to be real in us, to teach us all things.
And so we ask.
Let us pray +
Dearest Lord, bless your anointed ones that we may live fully in obedience to Your will. Bless our actions that we may serve You and Your people with humility, and help us live a life that will reflect Your goodness through Your Son Jesus Christ. Amen +
Lord, in your strength the king is glad.
LET HIM IN (1-15-10)
Mark 2:8
“Why are you thinking such things in your hearts?”
----------------------------------------
The healing of the paralytic man… the scribes during the time of Jesus cannot believe it.
It is sad that with the miracle of Jesus knowing their thoughts and the subsequent miracle of the healing of the paralytic most of them did not repent but they became harder in their hearts and minds.
But the paralytic man and his companions truly believed that he would be healed. Seeing no space inside the house, they opened up the roof and let down the mat on which the paralytic was lying.
And being healed, all were astounded and glorified God.
What things are you thinking in your heart now? Are you still in doubt about the power that God can do in your life?
Do you still wallow in sins, not because you do not believe in God, but because you want to rebel, you want to take Him out of your mind?
Come on… torn off the roof from your heart and start letting God in.
Sins forgiven, debilitating physical infirmities defeated by the love and power of God, this was truly a demonstration of the good news of the Son of God and the kingdom of God.
Believe, worship and glorify God!
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, heal us. Heal our land and our hearts. Please come into my heart today as we totally believe, worship and glorify You. Amen +
At your name they rejoice all the day…
“Why are you thinking such things in your hearts?”
----------------------------------------
The healing of the paralytic man… the scribes during the time of Jesus cannot believe it.
It is sad that with the miracle of Jesus knowing their thoughts and the subsequent miracle of the healing of the paralytic most of them did not repent but they became harder in their hearts and minds.
But the paralytic man and his companions truly believed that he would be healed. Seeing no space inside the house, they opened up the roof and let down the mat on which the paralytic was lying.
And being healed, all were astounded and glorified God.
What things are you thinking in your heart now? Are you still in doubt about the power that God can do in your life?
Do you still wallow in sins, not because you do not believe in God, but because you want to rebel, you want to take Him out of your mind?
Come on… torn off the roof from your heart and start letting God in.
Sins forgiven, debilitating physical infirmities defeated by the love and power of God, this was truly a demonstration of the good news of the Son of God and the kingdom of God.
Believe, worship and glorify God!
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, heal us. Heal our land and our hearts. Please come into my heart today as we totally believe, worship and glorify You. Amen +
At your name they rejoice all the day…
Thursday, January 14, 2010
MAKE ME CLEAN (1-14-10)
Mark 1:40
A leper came to him and kneeling down begged him and said, “If you wish, you can make me clean.”
--------------------------------------------------
The leper came to Jesus, knelt down and begged to make him clean.
And what was Jesus’ response? He stretched out His hand and touched the leper and he was made clean. Yes, he touched the leper… knowing fully that consequence of touching a leper.
And yes, he touched the leper, so the leper may know that Jesus cares for him. His disease would not matter to Him for He is above all diseases, above all pain, above all sufferings.
And all we have to do is kneel down and ask for His mercy.
Jesus wished to bless the people and lead them to faith in God. Because He is the Son of God and God's power came upon Him, He was able to bless the people with miracles of healing.
So, come to Him now. Let Him touch you. Let Him touch your heart. You may not be suffering physical pain, but you are certainly are in spiritual pain today – depressed, do not know what to do.
Kneel down in prayer and let His outreached hands touch you. And feel the love of God as it takes away all fears and make you clean.
Let us pray +
Lord, I am not worthy to receive You but only say the word and I shall be healed. Touch me, Lord, and make me clean so I may be worthy to join you in Heaven forever and ever. Amen +
Redeem us, Lord, because of your mercy.
A leper came to him and kneeling down begged him and said, “If you wish, you can make me clean.”
--------------------------------------------------
The leper came to Jesus, knelt down and begged to make him clean.
And what was Jesus’ response? He stretched out His hand and touched the leper and he was made clean. Yes, he touched the leper… knowing fully that consequence of touching a leper.
And yes, he touched the leper, so the leper may know that Jesus cares for him. His disease would not matter to Him for He is above all diseases, above all pain, above all sufferings.
And all we have to do is kneel down and ask for His mercy.
Jesus wished to bless the people and lead them to faith in God. Because He is the Son of God and God's power came upon Him, He was able to bless the people with miracles of healing.
So, come to Him now. Let Him touch you. Let Him touch your heart. You may not be suffering physical pain, but you are certainly are in spiritual pain today – depressed, do not know what to do.
Kneel down in prayer and let His outreached hands touch you. And feel the love of God as it takes away all fears and make you clean.
Let us pray +
Lord, I am not worthy to receive You but only say the word and I shall be healed. Touch me, Lord, and make me clean so I may be worthy to join you in Heaven forever and ever. Amen +
Redeem us, Lord, because of your mercy.
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
I AM LISTENING (1-13-10)
1 Samuel 3:10
Speak, LORD, for your servant is listening.
-----------------------------------------------------
Each time my teacher would call on me to recite, I would readily stand up even though I don’t know the question, much more the answer.
Everytime my boss will email me or call me on the phone, I would readily respond, even though I don’t know the purpose of his call or the answer to the problem he is mentioning in the email.
And through our lives, the Lord has been calling us but are we responding and listening to His call? Most of the time, the answer is “NO”.
Perhaps in our great emphasis on praising God, we have almost forgotten how to listen for His small quiet voice, and then respond faithfully. It’s just as important that we recognize His voice when He does speak, so we may fully understand what He wants us to do.
Have you sat in quietness of spirit and listened to the pricking of your conscience by the Word of God? Has He quickened your spirit with the reality of some sin, or the peace of reconciliation with Him?
There is a time to speak, and there is a time to be still and listen to His quiet voice. We don’t have anything worthwhile to say until He speaks to us in private. And then, respond… fully knowing and believing in all the things He said.
God still speaks. How do you respond?
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, as You speak to our inner being, may we quietly listen, agree with Your voice, confess any known sin to You, claim the cleansing blood of Jesus alone for our sin, and obey, fully believing that “Him that comes to You I will in no wise cast out.” Speak Lord, for your servant listens. Amen +
Here am I, Lord; I come to do your will.
Speak, LORD, for your servant is listening.
-----------------------------------------------------
Each time my teacher would call on me to recite, I would readily stand up even though I don’t know the question, much more the answer.
Everytime my boss will email me or call me on the phone, I would readily respond, even though I don’t know the purpose of his call or the answer to the problem he is mentioning in the email.
And through our lives, the Lord has been calling us but are we responding and listening to His call? Most of the time, the answer is “NO”.
Perhaps in our great emphasis on praising God, we have almost forgotten how to listen for His small quiet voice, and then respond faithfully. It’s just as important that we recognize His voice when He does speak, so we may fully understand what He wants us to do.
Have you sat in quietness of spirit and listened to the pricking of your conscience by the Word of God? Has He quickened your spirit with the reality of some sin, or the peace of reconciliation with Him?
There is a time to speak, and there is a time to be still and listen to His quiet voice. We don’t have anything worthwhile to say until He speaks to us in private. And then, respond… fully knowing and believing in all the things He said.
God still speaks. How do you respond?
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, as You speak to our inner being, may we quietly listen, agree with Your voice, confess any known sin to You, claim the cleansing blood of Jesus alone for our sin, and obey, fully believing that “Him that comes to You I will in no wise cast out.” Speak Lord, for your servant listens. Amen +
Here am I, Lord; I come to do your will.
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
EVIL, COME OUT (1-12-10)
Mark 1:25
Jesus rebuked him and said, “Quiet! Come out of him!”
-----------------------------------------
I know and believe in the Lord Jesus Christ.
I obey His commandments to the best of my ability.
But don’t the devil and unclean spirits do the same? In today’s gospel, the unclean spirit even recognize Jesus as “the Holy One of God.”
The unclean spirit also followed Jesus command and came out of the body of the man he originally possessed.
So what is the difference? Simple… we don’t just know and obey Him, but we also recognize Jesus as our Lord and Savior… as our King… and as our friend.
The devil may know Him, but the devil knows Him because Jesus is his enemy. And since the devil cannot harm the Holy One, he would just harm those He loves – no other than you and me.
Authentic faith often occurs on the narrow ridge between faith and doubt, between hope and despair. Sometimes we believe; at other times, we are so disappointed that the whole business of the Christian life seems questionable. But we have to move on and continue believing.
Christ is the strongman who has come to bind up evil spirits and to set us free. And we would be forever free from the devil once we believe and obey the only one and true Holy One of God.
Let us pray +
Lamb of God, who take away the sins of the world, have mercy on us. Protect us from evil and teach us to put our belief in You, Holy One of God. Amen +
My heart exults in the Lord, my Savior.
Jesus rebuked him and said, “Quiet! Come out of him!”
-----------------------------------------
I know and believe in the Lord Jesus Christ.
I obey His commandments to the best of my ability.
But don’t the devil and unclean spirits do the same? In today’s gospel, the unclean spirit even recognize Jesus as “the Holy One of God.”
The unclean spirit also followed Jesus command and came out of the body of the man he originally possessed.
So what is the difference? Simple… we don’t just know and obey Him, but we also recognize Jesus as our Lord and Savior… as our King… and as our friend.
The devil may know Him, but the devil knows Him because Jesus is his enemy. And since the devil cannot harm the Holy One, he would just harm those He loves – no other than you and me.
Authentic faith often occurs on the narrow ridge between faith and doubt, between hope and despair. Sometimes we believe; at other times, we are so disappointed that the whole business of the Christian life seems questionable. But we have to move on and continue believing.
Christ is the strongman who has come to bind up evil spirits and to set us free. And we would be forever free from the devil once we believe and obey the only one and true Holy One of God.
Let us pray +
Lamb of God, who take away the sins of the world, have mercy on us. Protect us from evil and teach us to put our belief in You, Holy One of God. Amen +
My heart exults in the Lord, my Savior.
Monday, January 11, 2010
FOLLOW HIM (1-11-10)
Mark 1:18
Then they left their nets and followed him.
---------------------------------------------------
The HR assistant approached the group of applicants. He asked them to all stand up and said “Follow me”.
Since the HR assistant walks with a limp, all the people behind him is not just following him, but literally doing what he does…
All are walking with a limp!!! I know this is a bad joke… but it surely presents in vivid manner our gospel for today.
The essence of discipleship is obedience.
Jesus calls the first disciples and they follow Him. This sounds like very simple, but if we look a little deeper into the word “follow,” we will discover that it is not as simple as it first seems.
To follow carries with it the connotation of imitating what someone does. Thus, disciples of Jesus are really imitators of Jesus. We should not be saying one thing, and then doing another thing “if someone is not looking.”
Another meaning of the word “follow” is the physical act of following a person along a particular path or journey. It is not enough just to watch Christianity happen around us; we need to be personally involved.
We have to learn to trust Jesus that wherever He leads us, there is a good purpose and reason.
So, do you just follow because others are looking? Or are you following Jesus because we know that following Him is the only way to eternal life?
Let us pray +
Lord Jesus, teach me thus Thy steps to trace, strong to follow in Thy grace, learning how to love from Thee, loving Him who first loved me. Love in loving finds employ, in obedience all our joy, ever new that joy will be, loving Him who first loved me. Amen +
To you, Lord, I will offer a sacrifice of praise.
Then they left their nets and followed him.
---------------------------------------------------
The HR assistant approached the group of applicants. He asked them to all stand up and said “Follow me”.
Since the HR assistant walks with a limp, all the people behind him is not just following him, but literally doing what he does…
All are walking with a limp!!! I know this is a bad joke… but it surely presents in vivid manner our gospel for today.
The essence of discipleship is obedience.
Jesus calls the first disciples and they follow Him. This sounds like very simple, but if we look a little deeper into the word “follow,” we will discover that it is not as simple as it first seems.
To follow carries with it the connotation of imitating what someone does. Thus, disciples of Jesus are really imitators of Jesus. We should not be saying one thing, and then doing another thing “if someone is not looking.”
Another meaning of the word “follow” is the physical act of following a person along a particular path or journey. It is not enough just to watch Christianity happen around us; we need to be personally involved.
We have to learn to trust Jesus that wherever He leads us, there is a good purpose and reason.
So, do you just follow because others are looking? Or are you following Jesus because we know that following Him is the only way to eternal life?
Let us pray +
Lord Jesus, teach me thus Thy steps to trace, strong to follow in Thy grace, learning how to love from Thee, loving Him who first loved me. Love in loving finds employ, in obedience all our joy, ever new that joy will be, loving Him who first loved me. Amen +
To you, Lord, I will offer a sacrifice of praise.
Sunday, January 10, 2010
HOLY SPIRIT AND FIRE (1-10-10)
Feast of the Lord’s Baptism
Luke 3:16
“I am baptizing you with water, but one mightier than I is coming… He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire.”
------------------------------------------------------
At baptism, we accept Christ as our Savior, gained his friendship, the guidance of the Spirit, and the protection of the Father, acknowledging God’s presence in our life.
We have Jesus who loved us so much to die for us, we have the Father who encloses us with his arms of mercy and safety, and we have the Spirit who lives inside of us.
Today, in the Catholic world, we celebrate the baptism of the Lord Jesus in the River Jordan, by St. John the Baptist, his cousin. It signifies both an end and a beginning – playing a significant role in both of their ministries.
First, it came at the height of John's ministry, after which his began to decline (“So this joy of mine has been made complete. He must increase; I must decrease.”).
It then served as the beginning of Jesus' ministry, which soon overtook the ministry of John.
Jesus did not really "need" baptism because He was without sin, but was baptized anyway to introduce Himself to the world, and start His ministry of salvation until His death, resurrection and ascension.
Let us pray+
We thank you, God, for the gift of creation, the gift of life and your presence with us. Almighty Father, by your Holy Spirit save those who confess the name of Jesus Christ that sin may have no power over them. Create new life for us, from the day that we are baptized till the day that we rise in Christ. Glory to you, eternal God, the one who was, and is, and shall always be, world without end. Amen +
The Lord will bless his people with peace.
Luke 3:16
“I am baptizing you with water, but one mightier than I is coming… He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire.”
------------------------------------------------------
At baptism, we accept Christ as our Savior, gained his friendship, the guidance of the Spirit, and the protection of the Father, acknowledging God’s presence in our life.
We have Jesus who loved us so much to die for us, we have the Father who encloses us with his arms of mercy and safety, and we have the Spirit who lives inside of us.
Today, in the Catholic world, we celebrate the baptism of the Lord Jesus in the River Jordan, by St. John the Baptist, his cousin. It signifies both an end and a beginning – playing a significant role in both of their ministries.
First, it came at the height of John's ministry, after which his began to decline (“So this joy of mine has been made complete. He must increase; I must decrease.”).
It then served as the beginning of Jesus' ministry, which soon overtook the ministry of John.
Jesus did not really "need" baptism because He was without sin, but was baptized anyway to introduce Himself to the world, and start His ministry of salvation until His death, resurrection and ascension.
Let us pray+
We thank you, God, for the gift of creation, the gift of life and your presence with us. Almighty Father, by your Holy Spirit save those who confess the name of Jesus Christ that sin may have no power over them. Create new life for us, from the day that we are baptized till the day that we rise in Christ. Glory to you, eternal God, the one who was, and is, and shall always be, world without end. Amen +
The Lord will bless his people with peace.
Saturday, January 9, 2010
HE HEARS US (1-09-10)
1 John 5:14
We have this confidence in Him that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us.
--------------------------------------------
We ask something in prayer, but it has been quite a while and we haven’t received it. Do we stop believing in Him?
Well, ask yourself… Are you confident that God will respond? Do you believe in your heart that God will provide it?
The problem of unanswered prayer is not God's fault, nor is it due to our imperfect prayer techniques. The problem could be that we are asking for the wrong things, or not praying according to God's will.
The problem may simply be that we don't know God's will.
We won't always know God's will. His infinite thoughts, ways, plans and purposes can't always be understood by our finite, limited minds.
As we seek God in prayer, we tap into the mind of God. As we begin to inquire concerning His plan, we begin to catch a glimpse of what He wants.
And some of what we see may surprise us.
When God gives you a glimpse of His fantastic plan for your life, you will become so excited about it, you will hardly be able to contain yourself.
So go back in prayer. Ask for it again, this time totally believing in Him that whatever will happen, it is His will and not yours.
Let us pray +
Oh Lord, I pray to you without ceasing. I bring back to You my life of prayer without losing heart. And when Jesus comes, I hope that He would see the faith in me, and be worthy to join Him in Heaven. Amen +
The Lord takes delight in his people.
We have this confidence in Him that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us.
--------------------------------------------
We ask something in prayer, but it has been quite a while and we haven’t received it. Do we stop believing in Him?
Well, ask yourself… Are you confident that God will respond? Do you believe in your heart that God will provide it?
The problem of unanswered prayer is not God's fault, nor is it due to our imperfect prayer techniques. The problem could be that we are asking for the wrong things, or not praying according to God's will.
The problem may simply be that we don't know God's will.
We won't always know God's will. His infinite thoughts, ways, plans and purposes can't always be understood by our finite, limited minds.
As we seek God in prayer, we tap into the mind of God. As we begin to inquire concerning His plan, we begin to catch a glimpse of what He wants.
And some of what we see may surprise us.
When God gives you a glimpse of His fantastic plan for your life, you will become so excited about it, you will hardly be able to contain yourself.
So go back in prayer. Ask for it again, this time totally believing in Him that whatever will happen, it is His will and not yours.
Let us pray +
Oh Lord, I pray to you without ceasing. I bring back to You my life of prayer without losing heart. And when Jesus comes, I hope that He would see the faith in me, and be worthy to join Him in Heaven. Amen +
The Lord takes delight in his people.
Friday, January 8, 2010
BREEZEWAY (1-08-10)
1 John 5:12
Whoever possesses the Son has life; whoever does not possess the Son of God does not have life.
----------------------------------------------
It was one benefit of having a frequent flyer card. Once you are able to accumulate certain points, you are entitled some perks. One of which is the ability to board the plane amongst the first even though you only have an economy seat.
One airline calls this “breezeway”… no questions asked, once they see that you are a “medallion” member, you can board the plane anytime at your own convenience.
Isn’t it great to also enter heaven via “breezeway”… no questions asked?
We are now accumulating points in our heaven frequent flyer account. It’s just that we do not know how many points we already have. And we can only use it once.
Moreover, we would only know if we can enter heaven, once we are already at its gate, with God looking at the Book of Life.
But do not worry. God has given us the only way to Heaven. Whether we like it or not, we have to understand and surrender to the Truth, that is His Son, Jesus Christ and that our salvation comes through Christ and through Him alone.
Call out to Him, believe in Him and make Him your Lord and Savior. Jesus Christ is the Way… and He is the key to our breezeway to Heaven.
Let us pray +
Holy Spirit, give me the strength and courage to live the moral life of a disciple of Jesus so that I will always give witness to the greater truths of eternal life. Amen +
God gave us eternal life, and this life is in his Son.
Whoever possesses the Son has life; whoever does not possess the Son of God does not have life.
----------------------------------------------
It was one benefit of having a frequent flyer card. Once you are able to accumulate certain points, you are entitled some perks. One of which is the ability to board the plane amongst the first even though you only have an economy seat.
One airline calls this “breezeway”… no questions asked, once they see that you are a “medallion” member, you can board the plane anytime at your own convenience.
Isn’t it great to also enter heaven via “breezeway”… no questions asked?
We are now accumulating points in our heaven frequent flyer account. It’s just that we do not know how many points we already have. And we can only use it once.
Moreover, we would only know if we can enter heaven, once we are already at its gate, with God looking at the Book of Life.
But do not worry. God has given us the only way to Heaven. Whether we like it or not, we have to understand and surrender to the Truth, that is His Son, Jesus Christ and that our salvation comes through Christ and through Him alone.
Call out to Him, believe in Him and make Him your Lord and Savior. Jesus Christ is the Way… and He is the key to our breezeway to Heaven.
Let us pray +
Holy Spirit, give me the strength and courage to live the moral life of a disciple of Jesus so that I will always give witness to the greater truths of eternal life. Amen +
God gave us eternal life, and this life is in his Son.
Thursday, January 7, 2010
GLAD TIDINGS (1-07-10)
Luke 4:18
The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to bring glad tidings to the poor.
------------------------------------------
Bring glad tidings to the poor? How can I do that? Because whenever and wherever I see them, they seems to be enjoying life better than me. They are always laughing, chatting, drinking…
Hmmm… maybe Jesus is pointing to another “poor”. Ah, yes, now I remember. He is referring to those who are “poor in spirit”.
So, does it mean owning nothing?
No, it is not necessary to be poor in goods to be poor in spirit. Poor in Spirit is an attitude of how we attach ourselves to property.
So, does it mean having a poor spiritual life?
No, we are called to deeply develop our spirituality as we become closer to God.
Poor in Spirit means acknowledging God's ownership of everything and that we are responsible to be good stewards of those things with which we have been blessed.
Our attitude should be one of faithful servants and not one of pride, envy, lust, and gluttony. We are called to use what we have and are given to provide for ourselves and serve God's people.
And we can only show this through service, with great love, to others. May You see the humbleness in our hearts from this day forward.
Let us pray +
Father, may we forever embodies humility – make the esteem effort to listen, accept others - no matter what their race, their religion, their education – or lack of it, or their station in life. Amen +
May they be prayed for continually; day by day shall they bless him.
The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to bring glad tidings to the poor.
------------------------------------------
Bring glad tidings to the poor? How can I do that? Because whenever and wherever I see them, they seems to be enjoying life better than me. They are always laughing, chatting, drinking…
Hmmm… maybe Jesus is pointing to another “poor”. Ah, yes, now I remember. He is referring to those who are “poor in spirit”.
So, does it mean owning nothing?
No, it is not necessary to be poor in goods to be poor in spirit. Poor in Spirit is an attitude of how we attach ourselves to property.
So, does it mean having a poor spiritual life?
No, we are called to deeply develop our spirituality as we become closer to God.
Poor in Spirit means acknowledging God's ownership of everything and that we are responsible to be good stewards of those things with which we have been blessed.
Our attitude should be one of faithful servants and not one of pride, envy, lust, and gluttony. We are called to use what we have and are given to provide for ourselves and serve God's people.
And we can only show this through service, with great love, to others. May You see the humbleness in our hearts from this day forward.
Let us pray +
Father, may we forever embodies humility – make the esteem effort to listen, accept others - no matter what their race, their religion, their education – or lack of it, or their station in life. Amen +
May they be prayed for continually; day by day shall they bless him.
Wednesday, January 6, 2010
GOD IS LOVE (1-06-10)
1 John 4:16
God is love, and whoever remains in love remains in God and God in him.
--------------------------------------------------------
The love that Jesus taught us primarily is “Agape” - the love of God; and secondarily the love of our neighbor as ourselves, for God's sake.
To sacrifice the first is to abandon the latter.
However, goes with this love is sacrifice.
What is the use of saying to a poor man to “go up and eat something” and yet you give nothing of what he needs.
Or, give him a small amount so he can eat for the day, and keep for yourself more money so you can eat in gluttony, smoke and drink like crazy.
God is love.
He so loved the world as to give His only-begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him may not perish, but may have life everlasting.
This is the kind of love that God want us to share with others. An unselfish love – to work and sacrifice oneself for the salvation of others.
It is not easy, but He has shown that it can be done.
Put all our faith in Him, all our hope in His promises, for our faith and hope in Him will be the foundation of loving others as He has loved us.
Let us pray +
Oh Lord, let us love one another, for Your love is a selfless, giving love. Whoever loves has been born of You and knows You. The love we should offer shall no longer be self-seeking, but, instead it shall seek the good of those that we love – ready, selfless, unconditional. Amen +
There is no fear in love, but perfect love drives out fear…
God is love, and whoever remains in love remains in God and God in him.
--------------------------------------------------------
The love that Jesus taught us primarily is “Agape” - the love of God; and secondarily the love of our neighbor as ourselves, for God's sake.
To sacrifice the first is to abandon the latter.
However, goes with this love is sacrifice.
What is the use of saying to a poor man to “go up and eat something” and yet you give nothing of what he needs.
Or, give him a small amount so he can eat for the day, and keep for yourself more money so you can eat in gluttony, smoke and drink like crazy.
God is love.
He so loved the world as to give His only-begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him may not perish, but may have life everlasting.
This is the kind of love that God want us to share with others. An unselfish love – to work and sacrifice oneself for the salvation of others.
It is not easy, but He has shown that it can be done.
Put all our faith in Him, all our hope in His promises, for our faith and hope in Him will be the foundation of loving others as He has loved us.
Let us pray +
Oh Lord, let us love one another, for Your love is a selfless, giving love. Whoever loves has been born of You and knows You. The love we should offer shall no longer be self-seeking, but, instead it shall seek the good of those that we love – ready, selfless, unconditional. Amen +
There is no fear in love, but perfect love drives out fear…
Tuesday, January 5, 2010
LET HIM TEACH US (1-05-10)
Mark 6:34
When Jesus saw the vast crowd, his heart was moved with pity for them, for they were like sheep without a shepherd; and he began to teach them many things.
-----------------------------------------------------
The project we did in our plant in Mexico have taught us many lessons – personal, life skills, business skills and spiritual upbringing.
But I know that these lessons would only come to nothing, if we fail to accept it, do it, and live with it.
And honestly, my heart is now moved with pity to those people who were not changed by it, despite of the many teachings and lessons. I just pray that they finally accept their weaknesses and work on improving themselves.
Jesus taught many things. And most people find them very hard to follow.
But those who believed, listened and followed His words surely have experienced extreme joy, for they are finally freed from things that prevent them from loving God and others more.
Learn more about Jesus and His teachings. We may not totally imitate the life He lived, but doing just a portion of what he taught us, can bring us already closer to God.
Let Him be our shepherd, guiding us to where to go in our lives.
Let us pray +
Lord Jesus, may we learn to do and live the things that You have taught us. May we forever live a life that is totally dedicated in serving, loving and obeying Your words. Amen +
Lord, every nation on earth will adore you.
When Jesus saw the vast crowd, his heart was moved with pity for them, for they were like sheep without a shepherd; and he began to teach them many things.
-----------------------------------------------------
The project we did in our plant in Mexico have taught us many lessons – personal, life skills, business skills and spiritual upbringing.
But I know that these lessons would only come to nothing, if we fail to accept it, do it, and live with it.
And honestly, my heart is now moved with pity to those people who were not changed by it, despite of the many teachings and lessons. I just pray that they finally accept their weaknesses and work on improving themselves.
Jesus taught many things. And most people find them very hard to follow.
But those who believed, listened and followed His words surely have experienced extreme joy, for they are finally freed from things that prevent them from loving God and others more.
Learn more about Jesus and His teachings. We may not totally imitate the life He lived, but doing just a portion of what he taught us, can bring us already closer to God.
Let Him be our shepherd, guiding us to where to go in our lives.
Let us pray +
Lord Jesus, may we learn to do and live the things that You have taught us. May we forever live a life that is totally dedicated in serving, loving and obeying Your words. Amen +
Lord, every nation on earth will adore you.
Monday, January 4, 2010
SPIRIT OF TRUTH (1-04-10)
1 John 4:6
We belong to God, and anyone who knows God listens to us, while anyone who does not belong to God refuses to hear us. This is how we know the spirit of truth and the spirit of deceit.
-------------------------------------------
You and your family are all dressed up to attend the Sunday Mass. When suddenly, a friend called you inviting you to a party, and you need to leave now. Would you go with your friend or with your family?
You are ready to attend a bible study. When, out of nowhere, you hear a tiny voice telling you to just go home and have some beer and watch a DVD movie. Would you heed that tiny voice?
The spirit of truth…
… or the spirit of deceit.
Most of the time, we listened to the latter… for it surely gives us more pleasure for the flesh.
Let us keep in mind the fact that the forces of Satan are working day and night to draw us into error of thinking, error of action, error within the church, error within the world, and error in our minds and hearts.
The only defense against these cunning wiles of the serpent, is the presence and power of the Holy Spirit – the Spirit of the Truth – within us, as he is always bringing us to the truth of the Word of God.
God has always communicated the truth, Satan the lie. So are you for deceit, or for the truth?
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, teach us to believe only in Your words and follow Your commandments. We listen only to You and we belong to You always and forever. Thank You for giving us the Spirit of the Truth. Amen +
I will give you all the nations for an inheritance.
We belong to God, and anyone who knows God listens to us, while anyone who does not belong to God refuses to hear us. This is how we know the spirit of truth and the spirit of deceit.
-------------------------------------------
You and your family are all dressed up to attend the Sunday Mass. When suddenly, a friend called you inviting you to a party, and you need to leave now. Would you go with your friend or with your family?
You are ready to attend a bible study. When, out of nowhere, you hear a tiny voice telling you to just go home and have some beer and watch a DVD movie. Would you heed that tiny voice?
The spirit of truth…
… or the spirit of deceit.
Most of the time, we listened to the latter… for it surely gives us more pleasure for the flesh.
Let us keep in mind the fact that the forces of Satan are working day and night to draw us into error of thinking, error of action, error within the church, error within the world, and error in our minds and hearts.
The only defense against these cunning wiles of the serpent, is the presence and power of the Holy Spirit – the Spirit of the Truth – within us, as he is always bringing us to the truth of the Word of God.
God has always communicated the truth, Satan the lie. So are you for deceit, or for the truth?
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, teach us to believe only in Your words and follow Your commandments. We listen only to You and we belong to You always and forever. Thank You for giving us the Spirit of the Truth. Amen +
I will give you all the nations for an inheritance.
COHEIRS (1-03-10)
The Epiphany of the Lord
Ephesians 3:6
…that the Gentiles are coheirs, members of the same body, and copartners in the promise in Christ Jesus through the gospel.
--------------------------------------
The travel of the wise men in search of the infant Jesus only signifies that everyone is entitled to God’s promise of salvation. And everyone should be aware of this truth/
Salvation is for everyone. It is not only for the Jews but for the Gentiles, at that time, as well.
We must therefore, yearn and learn to be the children of God and continually live under God’s blessing and God’s protection. The Lord God accepts anyone who believes in Him, His Son the Holy Spirit.
Therefore, we must live in this world as God’s children by acknowledging and fulfilling the purpose for which God made us and has called us through his Son Jesus Christ.
Jesus had come to restore God’s children and renew their holy mission and purpose in God. Let us live as God’s children, and participate in the world salvation work of God.
For His love is for everyone who believes and heed His words.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, You want us to give thanks for all things, to fear nothing except losing You and to lay all our cares on You, knowing that You care for us. Protect us from faithless fears and worldly anxieties, and grant that no clouds in this mortal life may hide from us the light of Your immortal love shown to us in Your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen +
Lord, every nation on earth will adore you.
Ephesians 3:6
…that the Gentiles are coheirs, members of the same body, and copartners in the promise in Christ Jesus through the gospel.
--------------------------------------
The travel of the wise men in search of the infant Jesus only signifies that everyone is entitled to God’s promise of salvation. And everyone should be aware of this truth/
Salvation is for everyone. It is not only for the Jews but for the Gentiles, at that time, as well.
We must therefore, yearn and learn to be the children of God and continually live under God’s blessing and God’s protection. The Lord God accepts anyone who believes in Him, His Son the Holy Spirit.
Therefore, we must live in this world as God’s children by acknowledging and fulfilling the purpose for which God made us and has called us through his Son Jesus Christ.
Jesus had come to restore God’s children and renew their holy mission and purpose in God. Let us live as God’s children, and participate in the world salvation work of God.
For His love is for everyone who believes and heed His words.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, You want us to give thanks for all things, to fear nothing except losing You and to lay all our cares on You, knowing that You care for us. Protect us from faithless fears and worldly anxieties, and grant that no clouds in this mortal life may hide from us the light of Your immortal love shown to us in Your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen +
Lord, every nation on earth will adore you.
Sunday, January 3, 2010
REVISIT YOUR FAITH (1-02-10)
1 John 2:24
Let what you heard from the beginning remain in you. If what you heard from the beginning remains in you, then you will remain in the Son and in the Father.
-----------------------------------------
Having studied in a Catholic school, I already have the basic foundation of the Christian (Catholic) faith in me since I was a child. I have known the importance of believing in Jesus, praying, the Holy Sacraments and salvation from eternal fire and damnation.
And I have done the same for my children. I have enrolled them in a Catholic school so they may learn the same basic foundation of their faith. And hopefully, that same belief will remain in them forever.
Many may have left their faith in Jesus Christ and take on new kind of religious belief that is not rooted on Christianity or the faith and belief of the apostles. But just the same, they yearn for that single, one, holy being that encompasses everything and every being.
So what is the difference?
The only difference is that they do it to satisfy what they want… to satisfy what they need. No need to go to a Sunday service. No need to receive Christ through the Holy Communion.
But come to think of it, is these what the apostles and disciples heard and did from the beginning? You ask yourself and revisit your faith…
Let us pray +
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name.
Thy Kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven
Give us this day our daily bread.
And forgive us our trespasses,
as we forgive those who trespass against us.
And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.
For thine is the kingdom, the power and the glory.
Forever and ever. Amen +
All the ends of the earth have seen the saving power of God.
Let what you heard from the beginning remain in you. If what you heard from the beginning remains in you, then you will remain in the Son and in the Father.
-----------------------------------------
Having studied in a Catholic school, I already have the basic foundation of the Christian (Catholic) faith in me since I was a child. I have known the importance of believing in Jesus, praying, the Holy Sacraments and salvation from eternal fire and damnation.
And I have done the same for my children. I have enrolled them in a Catholic school so they may learn the same basic foundation of their faith. And hopefully, that same belief will remain in them forever.
Many may have left their faith in Jesus Christ and take on new kind of religious belief that is not rooted on Christianity or the faith and belief of the apostles. But just the same, they yearn for that single, one, holy being that encompasses everything and every being.
So what is the difference?
The only difference is that they do it to satisfy what they want… to satisfy what they need. No need to go to a Sunday service. No need to receive Christ through the Holy Communion.
But come to think of it, is these what the apostles and disciples heard and did from the beginning? You ask yourself and revisit your faith…
Let us pray +
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name.
Thy Kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven
Give us this day our daily bread.
And forgive us our trespasses,
as we forgive those who trespass against us.
And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.
For thine is the kingdom, the power and the glory.
Forever and ever. Amen +
All the ends of the earth have seen the saving power of God.
Saturday, January 2, 2010
STARTING THE NEW YEAR WELL (1-01-10)
Solemnity of Mary Mother of God
Numbers 6:24
“The Lord bless you and keep you!”
-------------------------------------------
From Kerygma, by Father Steve Tynan, MGL
It feels good to start a project well. It gives us hope that things will continue to go well. The same is true as we begin the New Year.
There seems to be a psychological reality that allows us to bring to a close everything that happened in the previous year on December 31 and to feel as though we are able to start afresh come midnight that night.
Today, we also celebrate the Solemnity of Mary, the Mother of God. In so doing, we are reminded that Mary is indeed the Mother of God, and not just that of a special human being.
Mary is placed before us by the Church as the primary example of faith, the first and greatest disciple of her Son, Jesus.
Let us follow her example of simplicity, humility and faith and so entrust our lives to the will and mercy of God.
As we confront another new year, it is important that we embrace it with faith and trust that God will lead us through all the experiences that will come our way.
He is never far from us, and is always willing to lend us a hand.
It is amazing what difference a little faith can make in our lives. Imagine then what difference a lot of faith would make.
May God bless us in his mercy.
Numbers 6:24
“The Lord bless you and keep you!”
-------------------------------------------
From Kerygma, by Father Steve Tynan, MGL
It feels good to start a project well. It gives us hope that things will continue to go well. The same is true as we begin the New Year.
There seems to be a psychological reality that allows us to bring to a close everything that happened in the previous year on December 31 and to feel as though we are able to start afresh come midnight that night.
Today, we also celebrate the Solemnity of Mary, the Mother of God. In so doing, we are reminded that Mary is indeed the Mother of God, and not just that of a special human being.
Mary is placed before us by the Church as the primary example of faith, the first and greatest disciple of her Son, Jesus.
Let us follow her example of simplicity, humility and faith and so entrust our lives to the will and mercy of God.
As we confront another new year, it is important that we embrace it with faith and trust that God will lead us through all the experiences that will come our way.
He is never far from us, and is always willing to lend us a hand.
It is amazing what difference a little faith can make in our lives. Imagine then what difference a lot of faith would make.
May God bless us in his mercy.
Friday, January 1, 2010
FULLNESS OF LIFE (12-31-09)
John 1:16-17
From his fullness we have all received, grace in place of grace... while the law was given through Moses, grace and truth came through Jesus Christ.
-----------------------------------------------
In the coming new year, let’s find a quiet place and start assessing ourselves. Do we need sharpening as we face new challenges in life?
Make plans to sharpen our skills, our knowledge and of course, our spirit.
God will continue to sharpen us, for we are the swords God has chosen to sharpen others for His great work until the end of time.
Almighty Father, sharpen me. May I continue to grow in You, continually learning Your words, understanding Your will and doing what is right. I submit myself to Your Son, Jesus so we see Him clearly as His kingdom come in our lives and in the world!
Oh Lord, Your word is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart. We pray for each other today, as we share Your great work with each other through our friendships.
Sing to the LORD a new song; sing to the LORD, all you lands.
From his fullness we have all received, grace in place of grace... while the law was given through Moses, grace and truth came through Jesus Christ.
-----------------------------------------------
In the coming new year, let’s find a quiet place and start assessing ourselves. Do we need sharpening as we face new challenges in life?
Make plans to sharpen our skills, our knowledge and of course, our spirit.
God will continue to sharpen us, for we are the swords God has chosen to sharpen others for His great work until the end of time.
Almighty Father, sharpen me. May I continue to grow in You, continually learning Your words, understanding Your will and doing what is right. I submit myself to Your Son, Jesus so we see Him clearly as His kingdom come in our lives and in the world!
Oh Lord, Your word is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart. We pray for each other today, as we share Your great work with each other through our friendships.
Sing to the LORD a new song; sing to the LORD, all you lands.
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