Matthew 10:12-13
“As you enter a house, wish it peace. If the house is worthy, let your peace come upon it…”
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In our hearts reside peace and should be worthy to be called the dwelling place of God’s Spirit. In spite of all the anger and hatred that we sometimes feel and experience outside, we should let the peace in our hearts reign over it all. God loves us and wants us to know Him so He can fill us with peace and give us real life – forever.
“My peace I leave you, my peace I give to you”. Let us rejoice in the Risen Lord’s gift of peace, the peace that, should we accept it, will break our cycles of violence and revenge, and will re-create the world according to the “original blessing” that is the very happiness of God.
Christ’s Kingdom would be hell for those who avoided peace and devoted their lives to division, anger and hatred. Heaven is right in front of us. At the heart of what Jesus says in every gospel, act and parable is this: Now, this very minute, we can enter the Kingdom of God.
Let us pray +
O Lord, my God, grant us your peace; already, indeed, you have made us rich in all things! Give us that peace of being at rest, that sabbath peace, the peace which knows no end. Amen +
"See, and be glad; you who seek God, may your hearts revive!"
Saturday, July 31, 2010
Friday, July 30, 2010
IN YOUR KINDNESS (07-30-10)
John 20:7-8
But I pray to you, O LORD, for the time of your favor, O God! In your great kindness answer me with your constant help.
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Prayer is a simple ordinary part of human life, as natural as the relationships between friends or between parents and children. We may not always get what we want, but be assured that we always get what we need from God’s point of view. He may not give us a scorpion if we ask for an egg, but He would also give us more than an egg! Just be trusting in Him that He knows better than all of us combined.
Similarly, Jesus encouraged people to be persistent in prayer, to keep asking. It is important to understand the difference between faithful persistence and manipulation. The analogy with the child asking a parent can break down at this point. Children can be manipulative.
And God will not give in to manipulation. He will not give in to giving conditions in exchange for something. But He will certainly give in to persistency, providing what He knows we need at the right time.
Christian prayer is distinguished from magic precisely at this point. It is never manipulative, always trusting. We must trust God to decide what is good. Prayer is not mechanical, but interpersonal.
We exercise our freedom in a relationship and expect the other person (or God) also to respond in freedom. Seek His will and righteousness and in His great kindness, all these things shall be added unto you.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, thank You for hearing my prayers and tending to the desires of my heart, answering my prayers, and doing so in ways beyond my hopes. I pray that others will turn to You and do the same, praying about whatever is in their hearts and minds, so that You can reveal Yourself to them in awesome ways, too. I pray these things to You, in the name of Jesus Christ, my Lord and Savior; and in the love of the Holy Spirit. Amen +
This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad.
But I pray to you, O LORD, for the time of your favor, O God! In your great kindness answer me with your constant help.
-----------------------------------------------------------
Prayer is a simple ordinary part of human life, as natural as the relationships between friends or between parents and children. We may not always get what we want, but be assured that we always get what we need from God’s point of view. He may not give us a scorpion if we ask for an egg, but He would also give us more than an egg! Just be trusting in Him that He knows better than all of us combined.
Similarly, Jesus encouraged people to be persistent in prayer, to keep asking. It is important to understand the difference between faithful persistence and manipulation. The analogy with the child asking a parent can break down at this point. Children can be manipulative.
And God will not give in to manipulation. He will not give in to giving conditions in exchange for something. But He will certainly give in to persistency, providing what He knows we need at the right time.
Christian prayer is distinguished from magic precisely at this point. It is never manipulative, always trusting. We must trust God to decide what is good. Prayer is not mechanical, but interpersonal.
We exercise our freedom in a relationship and expect the other person (or God) also to respond in freedom. Seek His will and righteousness and in His great kindness, all these things shall be added unto you.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, thank You for hearing my prayers and tending to the desires of my heart, answering my prayers, and doing so in ways beyond my hopes. I pray that others will turn to You and do the same, praying about whatever is in their hearts and minds, so that You can reveal Yourself to them in awesome ways, too. I pray these things to You, in the name of Jesus Christ, my Lord and Savior; and in the love of the Holy Spirit. Amen +
This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad.
Thursday, July 29, 2010
POTTER’S CLAY (07-29-10)
John 20:7-8
Can I not do to you, house of Israel, as this potter has done? says the LORD. Indeed, like clay in the hand of the potter, so are you in my hand…
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It is great to watch a master potter does his thing. First, he will get a lump of mud or clay and place it on a round turntable. He will wet his hand and goes to work. He will make the table turn and touch the mud as it turns. We really do not know what is in his mind, but we all know that it would be a very beautiful creation. And as the mud starts to take shape, the continuous touching, dousing of water and pressure would make it more beautiful, smooth and fine. And when he is done with his creation, he would forever treasure it, as his own.
It is great to watch the Master Creator does his thing. First, he will get a lump of mud or clay and by His hands, shape it like His own image. He will wet his hand and goes to work. He will touch the mud lovingly and then breathe unto it. We really do not know what is in His mind, but we all know that it would be a very beautiful creation. And as the mud starts to take life, the continuous touching, dousing of blessing and pressure would make it more beautiful, smooth and fine. And when he is done with His creation, he would forever treasure it, as His own.
Almighty Father, keep my heart pure for You. You have created me in Your likeness and image. You are the absolute example of purity, and to be with You, I must also be pure. And yet, You still love and take care of me, in spite of being impure and disgusting. Always keep me under the warmth of Your love – molding me, turning me around, heating me up – under Your watchful and caring eyes, until You see clearly Your own image in me.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, search our heart and cleanse us of all that would keep You from being our “first love” always and in all things. For You are everything to us, for You alone can fulfill our deepest needs. We seek Your mercy, we seek Your compassion as we glorify and praise You forever and ever.
Blessed is he whose help is the God of Jacob.
Can I not do to you, house of Israel, as this potter has done? says the LORD. Indeed, like clay in the hand of the potter, so are you in my hand…
---------------------------------------------------------------
It is great to watch a master potter does his thing. First, he will get a lump of mud or clay and place it on a round turntable. He will wet his hand and goes to work. He will make the table turn and touch the mud as it turns. We really do not know what is in his mind, but we all know that it would be a very beautiful creation. And as the mud starts to take shape, the continuous touching, dousing of water and pressure would make it more beautiful, smooth and fine. And when he is done with his creation, he would forever treasure it, as his own.
It is great to watch the Master Creator does his thing. First, he will get a lump of mud or clay and by His hands, shape it like His own image. He will wet his hand and goes to work. He will touch the mud lovingly and then breathe unto it. We really do not know what is in His mind, but we all know that it would be a very beautiful creation. And as the mud starts to take life, the continuous touching, dousing of blessing and pressure would make it more beautiful, smooth and fine. And when he is done with His creation, he would forever treasure it, as His own.
Almighty Father, keep my heart pure for You. You have created me in Your likeness and image. You are the absolute example of purity, and to be with You, I must also be pure. And yet, You still love and take care of me, in spite of being impure and disgusting. Always keep me under the warmth of Your love – molding me, turning me around, heating me up – under Your watchful and caring eyes, until You see clearly Your own image in me.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, search our heart and cleanse us of all that would keep You from being our “first love” always and in all things. For You are everything to us, for You alone can fulfill our deepest needs. We seek Your mercy, we seek Your compassion as we glorify and praise You forever and ever.
Blessed is he whose help is the God of Jacob.
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
FINEST PEARL (07-28-10)
Matthew 13:45-46
The Kingdom of heaven is like a merchant searching for fine pearls. When he finds a pearl of great price, he goes and sells all that he has and buys it.
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We always find joy in buying and collecting things. I, myself, collects mini-cars of the Mini Cooper variety. I would search from the internet or check on toy stores if they would have new models that I can buy. It does bring us happiness to have them. But in my case, those collection are just kept in a cabinet. I have no place to display them. And maybe, that happiness is just short-lived. It dies until the next purchase.
Today’s gospel focus on the how finding the Kingdom of God could give anyone so much joy, that he would forego of his every possession just to have it. This joy of discovery reveals two essential points: first, the kingdom of God is not visible to the human eye, and, second, it is present in the midst of men.
It might seem impossible to find a kingdom that cannot be seen, but with God's help it can be found. Just like the precious metals and gems of the physical world, many of God’s spiritual treasures lie hidden from human view. To possess them we must dig deep and search – shaping, refining, polishing and finishing.
The parable of the hidden treasure reminds us of what can happen if we treat the free gift of the kingdom as something that would move us to dispose everything that we have and express much in finding God's kingdom in it. But the parable also reminds us that once we have received the kingdom, we must assume the responsibility to share it with others. We must allow others to see it, appreciate it and live it, through us.
In sharing the finest pearl that is Heaven, one increases one's grasp of it. The righteousness which is acceptable before God is found in His kingdom. Discover true and infinite joy – discover Him, discover His Kingdom.
Almighty Father, grant us, the gift of true happiness in You, and the serenity which comes from living close to You. Renew in us the sense of joy, and let the Your eternal spirit dwell in our souls and bodies, filling our every hearts with light and grace through Your love and mercy. Amen +
God is my refuge on the day of distress.
The Kingdom of heaven is like a merchant searching for fine pearls. When he finds a pearl of great price, he goes and sells all that he has and buys it.
--------------------------------------------
We always find joy in buying and collecting things. I, myself, collects mini-cars of the Mini Cooper variety. I would search from the internet or check on toy stores if they would have new models that I can buy. It does bring us happiness to have them. But in my case, those collection are just kept in a cabinet. I have no place to display them. And maybe, that happiness is just short-lived. It dies until the next purchase.
Today’s gospel focus on the how finding the Kingdom of God could give anyone so much joy, that he would forego of his every possession just to have it. This joy of discovery reveals two essential points: first, the kingdom of God is not visible to the human eye, and, second, it is present in the midst of men.
It might seem impossible to find a kingdom that cannot be seen, but with God's help it can be found. Just like the precious metals and gems of the physical world, many of God’s spiritual treasures lie hidden from human view. To possess them we must dig deep and search – shaping, refining, polishing and finishing.
The parable of the hidden treasure reminds us of what can happen if we treat the free gift of the kingdom as something that would move us to dispose everything that we have and express much in finding God's kingdom in it. But the parable also reminds us that once we have received the kingdom, we must assume the responsibility to share it with others. We must allow others to see it, appreciate it and live it, through us.
In sharing the finest pearl that is Heaven, one increases one's grasp of it. The righteousness which is acceptable before God is found in His kingdom. Discover true and infinite joy – discover Him, discover His Kingdom.
Almighty Father, grant us, the gift of true happiness in You, and the serenity which comes from living close to You. Renew in us the sense of joy, and let the Your eternal spirit dwell in our souls and bodies, filling our every hearts with light and grace through Your love and mercy. Amen +
God is my refuge on the day of distress.
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
YOU ALONE, O LORD (07-27-10)
Jeremiah 14:22
Is it not you alone, O LORD, our God, to whom we look? You alone have done all these things.
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Problems in our lives would come and go. But if we try to dodge every problems that come our way, then it will surely hunt you down repeatedly in the future. All we need to do is seek Him and pray. Let Him hug you and carry you in His arms as the “storm” passes by. You will feel a little pain, but then, it would be gone in a little while.
Trusting in God banishes fear. Look to Him. Believe in Him. Trust in Him. He knows the count of the number of our hairs. Imagine, as trivial as this, He knows! What more of those vital things in our lives.
Jesus wants to get across the idea that it doesn’t matter what is happening in your life, God has an intimate knowledge of every detail. It may be that you are suffering in silence, or that your friends and family do not appreciate the depth of your anguish and pain, however, in the end God knows everything. He knows in detail everything! He has done all these things, remember?
God does not want us to be afraid of anything but to have confidence in him. If you acknowledge him as the source of all goodness, he will acknowledge you, when you appear before him for judgment.
Like a father who will do anything to protect his child, God watches over us. Seek His love. For His love is enough.
Let us pray +
Lord, in every need let me come to You with humble trust saying, "Jesus, help me." In all my doubts, perplexities, and temptations, Jesus, help me. In hours of loneliness, weariness, and trials, Jesus, help me. When my heart is cast down by failure at seeing no good come from my efforts, Jesus, help me. You alone is our Lord and Savior. Help me and never forsake me. Amen +
For the glory of your name, O Lord, deliver us.
Is it not you alone, O LORD, our God, to whom we look? You alone have done all these things.
----------------------------------------------------------
Problems in our lives would come and go. But if we try to dodge every problems that come our way, then it will surely hunt you down repeatedly in the future. All we need to do is seek Him and pray. Let Him hug you and carry you in His arms as the “storm” passes by. You will feel a little pain, but then, it would be gone in a little while.
Trusting in God banishes fear. Look to Him. Believe in Him. Trust in Him. He knows the count of the number of our hairs. Imagine, as trivial as this, He knows! What more of those vital things in our lives.
Jesus wants to get across the idea that it doesn’t matter what is happening in your life, God has an intimate knowledge of every detail. It may be that you are suffering in silence, or that your friends and family do not appreciate the depth of your anguish and pain, however, in the end God knows everything. He knows in detail everything! He has done all these things, remember?
God does not want us to be afraid of anything but to have confidence in him. If you acknowledge him as the source of all goodness, he will acknowledge you, when you appear before him for judgment.
Like a father who will do anything to protect his child, God watches over us. Seek His love. For His love is enough.
Let us pray +
Lord, in every need let me come to You with humble trust saying, "Jesus, help me." In all my doubts, perplexities, and temptations, Jesus, help me. In hours of loneliness, weariness, and trials, Jesus, help me. When my heart is cast down by failure at seeing no good come from my efforts, Jesus, help me. You alone is our Lord and Savior. Help me and never forsake me. Amen +
For the glory of your name, O Lord, deliver us.
Monday, July 26, 2010
GOOD FOR SOMETHING (07-26-10)
Jeremiah 13:10
This wicked people who refuse to obey my words, who walk in the stubbornness of their hearts, and follow strange gods to serve and adore them, shall be like this loincloth which is good for nothing.
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I would lie on the sofa face down. And in seconds, I would feel the belt hitting my buttocks and I would cry more due to shear pain. I would immediately get up but I cannot immediately sit.
I do not know if my tears are due to the physical pain or due to emotional pain. Having done something wrong, I would really deserve being punished for it will never be tolerated by my father. After a while, when the pain went away, and the crying stops, he would approach me. He would console me and tell me why he did it and he would just smile. I knew at that time, that I was forgiven.
He wants me to grow good for something great and not good for nothing.
Since childhood, we have been told over and over again – do not do this, do not do that. For our parents know that as I child, we have a very poor concept yet of good and evil. So they have to lead us to the path of good and punish us if we take otherwise. Still, we hurt others, we hurt ourselves and we hurt God - we sin. Each and every one of us has done this at least a few times in our lives.
We have known what was right and what was wrong and still, we consciously, deliberately chose to do wrong. But our God is a merciful God. He is a loving God.
But in the end, He is still the God of Justice. If we continue to ignore Him, we would end up as good for nothing and suffer the pain of Hell. We live in a difficult world, so we must make sure that God is in charge of our lives. He wants us to become something better, seeking perfection as He is perfect.
Almighty Father, My God, I love You with all my heart. Pardon me the evil I have done, and accept the good I have done. May Your love, joy, peace, and patience be at the heart of our relationships with one another. May Your grace be always with me and with all my loved ones. Amen +
You have forgotten God who gave you birth.
This wicked people who refuse to obey my words, who walk in the stubbornness of their hearts, and follow strange gods to serve and adore them, shall be like this loincloth which is good for nothing.
-------------------------------------------------------
I would lie on the sofa face down. And in seconds, I would feel the belt hitting my buttocks and I would cry more due to shear pain. I would immediately get up but I cannot immediately sit.
I do not know if my tears are due to the physical pain or due to emotional pain. Having done something wrong, I would really deserve being punished for it will never be tolerated by my father. After a while, when the pain went away, and the crying stops, he would approach me. He would console me and tell me why he did it and he would just smile. I knew at that time, that I was forgiven.
He wants me to grow good for something great and not good for nothing.
Since childhood, we have been told over and over again – do not do this, do not do that. For our parents know that as I child, we have a very poor concept yet of good and evil. So they have to lead us to the path of good and punish us if we take otherwise. Still, we hurt others, we hurt ourselves and we hurt God - we sin. Each and every one of us has done this at least a few times in our lives.
We have known what was right and what was wrong and still, we consciously, deliberately chose to do wrong. But our God is a merciful God. He is a loving God.
But in the end, He is still the God of Justice. If we continue to ignore Him, we would end up as good for nothing and suffer the pain of Hell. We live in a difficult world, so we must make sure that God is in charge of our lives. He wants us to become something better, seeking perfection as He is perfect.
Almighty Father, My God, I love You with all my heart. Pardon me the evil I have done, and accept the good I have done. May Your love, joy, peace, and patience be at the heart of our relationships with one another. May Your grace be always with me and with all my loved ones. Amen +
You have forgotten God who gave you birth.
Sunday, July 25, 2010
ASK, SEEK, KNOCK (07-25-10)
Luke 11:13
“If you then, who are wicked, know how to give good gifts to your children,
how much more will the Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him?”
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Ask and you shall receive… I have already asked for a lot of things in life. But not all were granted. But can I still say that I lack in anything? Of course, not. Yet, I will continue to ask for more. For asking something in prayer is showing trust in God that our lives would be better.
Seek and you shall find… I still seek for that ultimate meaning of life. The ultimate reason why I am here on earth. I may have found it, and already doing it, but nobody knows but the Father. Yet, I will continue to seek for what He wills me to do. Seeking His will is showing trust in Him that our lives are really worth living.
Knock and the door shall be opened…My life and how I spend it here on earth would determine if the Lord would open the door of Heaven if I knock on it. But be advised that the door to God’s heart is always open. All we need is to access it through prayers of repentance, for we are all sinners but in the eyes of God, we are all saints.
You and I will have many needs on our journey through life - needs of which our Father in heaven is already well aware. Meet with Him in prayer and spend the time thanking Him. He may not always give us what we want, but He will always provide for us what we need.
Just two hundred years ago, not even kings could have a life that we live now. We thank God for all he has done and continues to do. We remember that he is the source of all good things. Prayers of gratitude remind us of just how much we receive at his hands.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, You have always known our needs. If it's not your will Lord, please change my heart. Show me how to differentiate between my wants and my needs. So I am satisfied. Amen +
Lord, on the day I called for help, you answered me.
“If you then, who are wicked, know how to give good gifts to your children,
how much more will the Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him?”
-----------------------------------------------
Ask and you shall receive… I have already asked for a lot of things in life. But not all were granted. But can I still say that I lack in anything? Of course, not. Yet, I will continue to ask for more. For asking something in prayer is showing trust in God that our lives would be better.
Seek and you shall find… I still seek for that ultimate meaning of life. The ultimate reason why I am here on earth. I may have found it, and already doing it, but nobody knows but the Father. Yet, I will continue to seek for what He wills me to do. Seeking His will is showing trust in Him that our lives are really worth living.
Knock and the door shall be opened…My life and how I spend it here on earth would determine if the Lord would open the door of Heaven if I knock on it. But be advised that the door to God’s heart is always open. All we need is to access it through prayers of repentance, for we are all sinners but in the eyes of God, we are all saints.
You and I will have many needs on our journey through life - needs of which our Father in heaven is already well aware. Meet with Him in prayer and spend the time thanking Him. He may not always give us what we want, but He will always provide for us what we need.
Just two hundred years ago, not even kings could have a life that we live now. We thank God for all he has done and continues to do. We remember that he is the source of all good things. Prayers of gratitude remind us of just how much we receive at his hands.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, You have always known our needs. If it's not your will Lord, please change my heart. Show me how to differentiate between my wants and my needs. So I am satisfied. Amen +
Lord, on the day I called for help, you answered me.
Saturday, July 24, 2010
WEEDS AND WHEAT (07-24-10)
Matthew 13:30
“First collect the weeds and tie them in bundles for burning; but gather the wheat into my barn.”
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Today’s parable explains why good and bad people co-exist in this world. It is simply because all of us do not belong in this world. There would be wheat and weeds in our lives whether we like it or not. This is the reason why it is necessary that we trust more in the Lord as we go though life.
We live in a world that includes the good and the wicked. But like it or not, God has always made it clear - we must do the right things, by His standards, in order to achieve salvation.
But in the afterlife, not only are evildoers condemned, but “all who cause others to sin” as well. God’s gift of time is beyond measure. It is truly priceless and there will be a day when we will be asked to account for our time spent on this earth.
At the end of time, the believers in Christ will be gathered together to be brought into the storehouse, where they will experience eternal life in the Kingdom of Heaven.
However, the weeds shall be separated and bound together to be thrown into the flames. These represent those who refused the invitation to repent and believe. The “barn” or the “burning”, it is your choice.
Are you a wheat or a weed? But still, please, choose to be the former!
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, we beseech You to deliver us, by Your eternal power, from all the tyranny of the infernal spirits, from their snares, their lies and their furious wickedness. Grant us Your powerful protection and to keep us safe and sound. May Your Spirit grant us a loving and merciful heart as we live in You through Jesus Christ Our Lord. Amen +
How lovely is your dwelling place, Lord, mighty God!
“First collect the weeds and tie them in bundles for burning; but gather the wheat into my barn.”
---------------------------------------------------------
Today’s parable explains why good and bad people co-exist in this world. It is simply because all of us do not belong in this world. There would be wheat and weeds in our lives whether we like it or not. This is the reason why it is necessary that we trust more in the Lord as we go though life.
We live in a world that includes the good and the wicked. But like it or not, God has always made it clear - we must do the right things, by His standards, in order to achieve salvation.
But in the afterlife, not only are evildoers condemned, but “all who cause others to sin” as well. God’s gift of time is beyond measure. It is truly priceless and there will be a day when we will be asked to account for our time spent on this earth.
At the end of time, the believers in Christ will be gathered together to be brought into the storehouse, where they will experience eternal life in the Kingdom of Heaven.
However, the weeds shall be separated and bound together to be thrown into the flames. These represent those who refused the invitation to repent and believe. The “barn” or the “burning”, it is your choice.
Are you a wheat or a weed? But still, please, choose to be the former!
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, we beseech You to deliver us, by Your eternal power, from all the tyranny of the infernal spirits, from their snares, their lies and their furious wickedness. Grant us Your powerful protection and to keep us safe and sound. May Your Spirit grant us a loving and merciful heart as we live in You through Jesus Christ Our Lord. Amen +
How lovely is your dwelling place, Lord, mighty God!
Friday, July 23, 2010
I AM YOUR MASTER (07-23-10)
Jeremiah 3:14
Return, rebellious children, says the LORD, for I am your Master…
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Only a matter of minutes before I begin my talk. But days before this, I have rehearsed what I will be saying, how I will move and what jokes I will tell to keep my audience alive. All of these, I have envisioned in my mind. In effect, I have already made a mental picture on how the talk will go and be delivered so my audience will learn more from it. I have a “baby” in my mind ready to be born. Hopefully, the people would appreciate “him” and accept “him” in their hearts and minds.
Similarly, we were not born accidentally. We should realize that we were born for a reason, for a mission. Jeremiah’s call by God teaches how intimately God know us. He valued us before anyone else knew we would exist. He cared for us while we were in our mother’s womb. He planned our life while our body was still being formed. He values us more highly than we value ourselves.
Jeremiah had to depend on God’s love as he developed endurance. His audiences were usually antagonistic or apathetic to his messages. He was ignored; his life was often threatened.
With the exception of the good king Josiah, Jeremiah watched king after king ignore his warnings and lead the people away from God. He himself was severely persecuted.
Finally, he watched Judah’s defeat at the hands of the Babylonians. He endured because his faith was firmly rooted in God. Even when he was discouraged and downtrodden, Jeremiah’s heart for God overcame his strong negative emotions.
Our allegiance is His right, for He is our maker, our master. He commands us, therefore, to submit to His rule. Know the reason why you are here on earth, and finish that mission, all for the glory of God.
Almighty Father, You called me through the love that I have for You to endure. You will be my strength that upholds me, You will be my mercy that will sustain me and my grace that will cover me. Amen +
The Lord will guard us as a shepherd guards his flock.
Return, rebellious children, says the LORD, for I am your Master…
---------------------------------------------------------
Only a matter of minutes before I begin my talk. But days before this, I have rehearsed what I will be saying, how I will move and what jokes I will tell to keep my audience alive. All of these, I have envisioned in my mind. In effect, I have already made a mental picture on how the talk will go and be delivered so my audience will learn more from it. I have a “baby” in my mind ready to be born. Hopefully, the people would appreciate “him” and accept “him” in their hearts and minds.
Similarly, we were not born accidentally. We should realize that we were born for a reason, for a mission. Jeremiah’s call by God teaches how intimately God know us. He valued us before anyone else knew we would exist. He cared for us while we were in our mother’s womb. He planned our life while our body was still being formed. He values us more highly than we value ourselves.
Jeremiah had to depend on God’s love as he developed endurance. His audiences were usually antagonistic or apathetic to his messages. He was ignored; his life was often threatened.
With the exception of the good king Josiah, Jeremiah watched king after king ignore his warnings and lead the people away from God. He himself was severely persecuted.
Finally, he watched Judah’s defeat at the hands of the Babylonians. He endured because his faith was firmly rooted in God. Even when he was discouraged and downtrodden, Jeremiah’s heart for God overcame his strong negative emotions.
Our allegiance is His right, for He is our maker, our master. He commands us, therefore, to submit to His rule. Know the reason why you are here on earth, and finish that mission, all for the glory of God.
Almighty Father, You called me through the love that I have for You to endure. You will be my strength that upholds me, You will be my mercy that will sustain me and my grace that will cover me. Amen +
The Lord will guard us as a shepherd guards his flock.
Thursday, July 22, 2010
MAGDALENE (07-22-10)
John 20:7-8
Mary Magdalene went and announced to the disciples, "I have seen the Lord," and then reported what he told her.
----------------------------------------------------
She was portrayed as a sinner. She was even portrayed as a prostitute. But who really is Mary Magdalene?
Mary of Magdala is more than what we normally know or hear about her. During her times with Jesus and the disciples, she turned the mass of her crimes to virtues, in order to serve God entirely in penance. She is a courageous servant leader, brave enough to stand by Jesus in his hours of suffering, death and beyond.
And during the time of resurrection, she was the first to reach the tomb with the intent of cleaning the corpse of the Lord. But what did she experienced? She experienced, first-hand, the risen Lord in all His glory. Her words, “I have seen the Lord,” are the first act of faith in the Resurrection.
But she did not stopped at that. With her heart full of excitement and joy, she would report what she had seen to the disciples.
Similarly, we are all called to the do the same. Be a witness to the Lord’s resurrection. And be filled with excitement and joy to share the same to others. This is the calling of Mary, then… this is our calling, now.
That is the Gospel truth, first heard from the lips of a woman, a woman named Mary Magdalene. Throughout the Church year, it is Mary’s message that we are challenged to proclaim with as much boldness and integrity as she did.
Let us pray +
Saint Mary Magdalene, woman of many sins, who by conversion became the beloved of Jesus, thank you for your witness that Jesus forgives through the miracle of love. You, who already possess eternal happiness in His glorious presence, please intercede for me, so that some day I may share in the same everlasting joy. Amen+
With you is the fountain of life, O Lord.
Mary Magdalene went and announced to the disciples, "I have seen the Lord," and then reported what he told her.
----------------------------------------------------
She was portrayed as a sinner. She was even portrayed as a prostitute. But who really is Mary Magdalene?
Mary of Magdala is more than what we normally know or hear about her. During her times with Jesus and the disciples, she turned the mass of her crimes to virtues, in order to serve God entirely in penance. She is a courageous servant leader, brave enough to stand by Jesus in his hours of suffering, death and beyond.
And during the time of resurrection, she was the first to reach the tomb with the intent of cleaning the corpse of the Lord. But what did she experienced? She experienced, first-hand, the risen Lord in all His glory. Her words, “I have seen the Lord,” are the first act of faith in the Resurrection.
But she did not stopped at that. With her heart full of excitement and joy, she would report what she had seen to the disciples.
Similarly, we are all called to the do the same. Be a witness to the Lord’s resurrection. And be filled with excitement and joy to share the same to others. This is the calling of Mary, then… this is our calling, now.
That is the Gospel truth, first heard from the lips of a woman, a woman named Mary Magdalene. Throughout the Church year, it is Mary’s message that we are challenged to proclaim with as much boldness and integrity as she did.
Let us pray +
Saint Mary Magdalene, woman of many sins, who by conversion became the beloved of Jesus, thank you for your witness that Jesus forgives through the miracle of love. You, who already possess eternal happiness in His glorious presence, please intercede for me, so that some day I may share in the same everlasting joy. Amen+
With you is the fountain of life, O Lord.
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
A HUNDREDFOLD (07-21-10)
Matthew 13:8
But some seed fell on rich soil, and produced fruit, a hundred or sixty or thirtyfold.
----------------------------------------------------
They were born from the same parents, and yet, when they grew up, they took different paths in life. One grew up as a professional, helping others in needs and a God-fearing Christian. The other one is a wanted criminal, constantly running away from the law.
This story is not only taken out of movies. It was actually happening in real life. And then we would ask, “why?” Why do some produce fruit for the kingdom and others apparently not? Does it depend on whether we take Jesus and his message seriously?
Jesus gives reasons why. Some people allow the devil to take the word from their heart. These are the people who receive the seed on the edge of the path. They hear the word of God but don’t believe its promises. They have heard the teaching of Jesus but don’t take it seriously. They are the people who forget the meaning of life, who live as if God doesn’t exist.
On Sundays, millions of people go to mass or Sunday services. But how many of them would go home and practice what he heard and experience? How many would live a life dedicated to Him and denounce devil totally?
Open your hearts and enrich your soul for Him so when the seeds of Spirit is sown, it will grow in you in fullness of life, producing fruits a hundredfold. Think of how beautiful our world would be if we all produced these fruits 100% all the time; love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, trustfulness, gentleness and self-control. We would have heaven on earth!
Are you ready to be the seed that will yield healthy fruits? Be ready to inherit Heaven, receiving the Word of God in rich soil and spirit.
Almighty Father, I receive you in my heart as you enrich my soul so I may produce healthy fruits. In your infinite mercy, bring peace and comfort to those of us who face days sometimes filled with pain and depression. Help us through the rough times. Walk before and beside us so that we may walk in your footsteps and reach out to you in our journey on this earth. Amen +
I will sing of your salvation.
But some seed fell on rich soil, and produced fruit, a hundred or sixty or thirtyfold.
----------------------------------------------------
They were born from the same parents, and yet, when they grew up, they took different paths in life. One grew up as a professional, helping others in needs and a God-fearing Christian. The other one is a wanted criminal, constantly running away from the law.
This story is not only taken out of movies. It was actually happening in real life. And then we would ask, “why?” Why do some produce fruit for the kingdom and others apparently not? Does it depend on whether we take Jesus and his message seriously?
Jesus gives reasons why. Some people allow the devil to take the word from their heart. These are the people who receive the seed on the edge of the path. They hear the word of God but don’t believe its promises. They have heard the teaching of Jesus but don’t take it seriously. They are the people who forget the meaning of life, who live as if God doesn’t exist.
On Sundays, millions of people go to mass or Sunday services. But how many of them would go home and practice what he heard and experience? How many would live a life dedicated to Him and denounce devil totally?
Open your hearts and enrich your soul for Him so when the seeds of Spirit is sown, it will grow in you in fullness of life, producing fruits a hundredfold. Think of how beautiful our world would be if we all produced these fruits 100% all the time; love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, trustfulness, gentleness and self-control. We would have heaven on earth!
Are you ready to be the seed that will yield healthy fruits? Be ready to inherit Heaven, receiving the Word of God in rich soil and spirit.
Almighty Father, I receive you in my heart as you enrich my soul so I may produce healthy fruits. In your infinite mercy, bring peace and comfort to those of us who face days sometimes filled with pain and depression. Help us through the rough times. Walk before and beside us so that we may walk in your footsteps and reach out to you in our journey on this earth. Amen +
I will sing of your salvation.
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
SACRIFICIAL LAMB (07-20-10)
Psalms 85:3
You have forgiven the guilt of your people; you have covered all their sins.
-----------------------------------------------------
In the old testament, sacrifice honored God by offering him creatures precious to man that are either bloody and unbloody. The animal was completely consumed by fire and offered twice each day, in the morning and evening. The sacrifice could either be sin offering, guilt offering or peace offering was in gratitude, in fulfillment of a vow, or simply voluntary.
The unbloody sacrifices, however, is for peace offering only. In effect, sacrifice is to expiate oneself of sins and gain the forgiveness of God.
However, in the new testament, salvation and forgiveness has already come in Jesus Christ. In effect, we do not need sacrifices for our own sake anymore, just to please God.
God is a God of mercy. Because God is a merciful God, he expects his children to be merciful. We now have to share in the very work of God – by showing mercy to others as God has shown mercy to us! We lead others to the love of God in Jesus Christ and receive Him as their Lord and Savior.
Turn to the living God for He will have mercy, and to our God, for He will abundantly pardon. It is not about living a perfect life of sacrifice anymore, but about people coming together and learning to love and accept each other.
Love God more than we would have; showing mercy towards others by loving those who, by human standard, do not deserve to be loved.
Let us pray +
Lord Jesus Christ, you are our merciful God become Man to redeem us from our sins. Open our eyes to the debt of love that we owe You for Your unspeakable merciful love for us. Open our hearts to give ourselves to You through those whom You place into our lives, so that by our mercy toward them we may win mercy from You and cooperate with You in the redemption of a sinful world. Amen +
Lord, show us your mercy and love.
You have forgiven the guilt of your people; you have covered all their sins.
-----------------------------------------------------
In the old testament, sacrifice honored God by offering him creatures precious to man that are either bloody and unbloody. The animal was completely consumed by fire and offered twice each day, in the morning and evening. The sacrifice could either be sin offering, guilt offering or peace offering was in gratitude, in fulfillment of a vow, or simply voluntary.
The unbloody sacrifices, however, is for peace offering only. In effect, sacrifice is to expiate oneself of sins and gain the forgiveness of God.
However, in the new testament, salvation and forgiveness has already come in Jesus Christ. In effect, we do not need sacrifices for our own sake anymore, just to please God.
God is a God of mercy. Because God is a merciful God, he expects his children to be merciful. We now have to share in the very work of God – by showing mercy to others as God has shown mercy to us! We lead others to the love of God in Jesus Christ and receive Him as their Lord and Savior.
Turn to the living God for He will have mercy, and to our God, for He will abundantly pardon. It is not about living a perfect life of sacrifice anymore, but about people coming together and learning to love and accept each other.
Love God more than we would have; showing mercy towards others by loving those who, by human standard, do not deserve to be loved.
Let us pray +
Lord Jesus Christ, you are our merciful God become Man to redeem us from our sins. Open our eyes to the debt of love that we owe You for Your unspeakable merciful love for us. Open our hearts to give ourselves to You through those whom You place into our lives, so that by our mercy toward them we may win mercy from You and cooperate with You in the redemption of a sinful world. Amen +
Lord, show us your mercy and love.
Monday, July 19, 2010
LOVE GOODNESS (07-19-10)
Micah 6:8
You have been told, O man, what is good, and what the LORD requires of you: Only to do the right and to love goodness, and to walk humbly with your God.
----------------------------------------------------------
Somebody took my bike away. I do not know how it happened. I looked for it all around, but it’s not there anymore. I went home crying. On the way home, the thought of being scolded and grounded by my father plays repeatedly on my mind.
Upon reaching the house, my father saw me crying and hugged me. He already had a hint of what happened. He just said, “I am glad that only the bike was lost and you returned back alive and safe”.
The thought of being loved brings into us great joy. That instance instilled in my mind one important thing – that material things are nothing; loving and caring for someone is everything.
The love of God is pure, unadulterated one. God loves us so much that he sent his only Son to become one of us and to save the human race. When Jesus died on the cross, He paid the ransom so we can be with Him again. In His resurrection, the promise of salvation was fulfilled. And He takes care of us now and forever and will not let the devil take us away again.
However, we sometimes forget this. When we experience death or loss, we always thought that He was the one who let these happened in our lives. We indulged more in sins and the devil has once again owned our heart and our soul. But, Jesus will not let this happen further. He showed us what is right and all we need is to follow Him and His Words
Jesus opened the way for us to have eternal life. Be not afraid and come to Him. Do the right things and love goodness.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, I am lost and it is hard to face up to the wrong that is in my life. When I feel Your forgiveness, I feel clean and good inside. Help me feel this goodness and allow me to share it with others. Amen +
To the upright I will show the saving power of God.
You have been told, O man, what is good, and what the LORD requires of you: Only to do the right and to love goodness, and to walk humbly with your God.
----------------------------------------------------------
Somebody took my bike away. I do not know how it happened. I looked for it all around, but it’s not there anymore. I went home crying. On the way home, the thought of being scolded and grounded by my father plays repeatedly on my mind.
Upon reaching the house, my father saw me crying and hugged me. He already had a hint of what happened. He just said, “I am glad that only the bike was lost and you returned back alive and safe”.
The thought of being loved brings into us great joy. That instance instilled in my mind one important thing – that material things are nothing; loving and caring for someone is everything.
The love of God is pure, unadulterated one. God loves us so much that he sent his only Son to become one of us and to save the human race. When Jesus died on the cross, He paid the ransom so we can be with Him again. In His resurrection, the promise of salvation was fulfilled. And He takes care of us now and forever and will not let the devil take us away again.
However, we sometimes forget this. When we experience death or loss, we always thought that He was the one who let these happened in our lives. We indulged more in sins and the devil has once again owned our heart and our soul. But, Jesus will not let this happen further. He showed us what is right and all we need is to follow Him and His Words
Jesus opened the way for us to have eternal life. Be not afraid and come to Him. Do the right things and love goodness.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, I am lost and it is hard to face up to the wrong that is in my life. When I feel Your forgiveness, I feel clean and good inside. Help me feel this goodness and allow me to share it with others. Amen +
To the upright I will show the saving power of God.
Sunday, July 18, 2010
RELAX AND WORRY NOT (07-18-10)
Luke 10:41
“Martha, Martha, you are anxious and worried about many things…”
--------------------------------------------------------
Several years ago the National Anxiety Center in New Jersey, released the "Top Ten Anxieties for the 1990s." The list included AIDS, drug abuse, nuclear waste, famine, global terrorism and the federal deficit. Relentless worries carry a similar effect. They make us uneasy. They steal smiles from our faces. The world does not give peace. The world gives anxiety.
We live in an anxious world. In today’s gospel, there is one necessary thing that Jesus expects from all of us. His words show us that we have a choice. We can choose to feel burdened, anxious, and worried, and run around in a panic, or we can make a real effort to react otherwise.
What did Mary do? She “sat beside the Lord at his feet listening to Him speak.” She chose Jesus.
Before you do anything else, reflect on your list of worries. Take a good look through the current events of your life. What is it that has you anxious?
Then, relax!
Stop fretting about tomorrow or next week or next month. God specializes in getting you through the tough stuff. Be calm and start allowing the Spirit of god to enter your troubled soul.
Pray daily for Jesus to send the Spirit afresh to help us face our fears and find new hope. And through this, learn to love God more and more so that we can keep His word, and embrace all the wonder of a life freed up, with all our fears behind us.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, You know every inch of my heart. I realize my life is in your big hands, but at times I forget, and I find myself so afraid and worried. Give me the grace to see that it is all right to let go of some things in my life now. Let me take to heart the lesson of Mary and Martha. I pray in Jesus’ name. Amen +
He who does justice will live in the presence of the Lord.
“Martha, Martha, you are anxious and worried about many things…”
--------------------------------------------------------
Several years ago the National Anxiety Center in New Jersey, released the "Top Ten Anxieties for the 1990s." The list included AIDS, drug abuse, nuclear waste, famine, global terrorism and the federal deficit. Relentless worries carry a similar effect. They make us uneasy. They steal smiles from our faces. The world does not give peace. The world gives anxiety.
We live in an anxious world. In today’s gospel, there is one necessary thing that Jesus expects from all of us. His words show us that we have a choice. We can choose to feel burdened, anxious, and worried, and run around in a panic, or we can make a real effort to react otherwise.
What did Mary do? She “sat beside the Lord at his feet listening to Him speak.” She chose Jesus.
Before you do anything else, reflect on your list of worries. Take a good look through the current events of your life. What is it that has you anxious?
Then, relax!
Stop fretting about tomorrow or next week or next month. God specializes in getting you through the tough stuff. Be calm and start allowing the Spirit of god to enter your troubled soul.
Pray daily for Jesus to send the Spirit afresh to help us face our fears and find new hope. And through this, learn to love God more and more so that we can keep His word, and embrace all the wonder of a life freed up, with all our fears behind us.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, You know every inch of my heart. I realize my life is in your big hands, but at times I forget, and I find myself so afraid and worried. Give me the grace to see that it is all right to let go of some things in my life now. Let me take to heart the lesson of Mary and Martha. I pray in Jesus’ name. Amen +
He who does justice will live in the presence of the Lord.
Saturday, July 17, 2010
ALL-POWERFUL (07-17-10)
Micah 2:1
Woe to those who plan iniquity, and work out evil on their couches…
-------------------------------------------------------------
When the Philippine’s new president assumes power, he promised a lot of things – from making the Philippines great again to following the traffic rules. And true enough, he would travel from his house to his office like any ordinary citizens – no counterflows, follow the signal lights and without the blaring sirens and police lights.
And the whole nation is really looking at him and hoping that he delivers his promises, especially those that will help alleviate the plight of the poorest of the poor. We are all hoping that the phrase “power corrupts” will not again show its ugly head in this administration.
Sometimes, we feel like we are above others – because of the position we have, the influence we impart, the people we know or the things that we wear or have. But soon enough, when those are gone, we end up with nothing. Even our so-called friends would leave us.
Only then would we realize that the only power we should wear is the power given to us by God. And we should realize that this power can only be attained by carrying our cross… and helping others to carry their own, in His grace and mercy.
Our God is all-power and all-wise. Allow Him to give you the power to serve You and others. Understand that everything right we do now, it is because of Him and Him alone. Anything that we do for others, it is for Him and Him alone.
For He alone does wonders in our lives.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, wash me and cleanse me and purify me! Do a work in my innermost being, in the hidden part of me. Cleanse the inside of my cup! Wash me thoroughly from my iniquity and cleanse me from my sinfulness. Wash me so I shall be whiter than snow! And be worthy of joining your Kingdom in Heaven. Amen +
Do not forget the poor, O Lord!
Woe to those who plan iniquity, and work out evil on their couches…
-------------------------------------------------------------
When the Philippine’s new president assumes power, he promised a lot of things – from making the Philippines great again to following the traffic rules. And true enough, he would travel from his house to his office like any ordinary citizens – no counterflows, follow the signal lights and without the blaring sirens and police lights.
And the whole nation is really looking at him and hoping that he delivers his promises, especially those that will help alleviate the plight of the poorest of the poor. We are all hoping that the phrase “power corrupts” will not again show its ugly head in this administration.
Sometimes, we feel like we are above others – because of the position we have, the influence we impart, the people we know or the things that we wear or have. But soon enough, when those are gone, we end up with nothing. Even our so-called friends would leave us.
Only then would we realize that the only power we should wear is the power given to us by God. And we should realize that this power can only be attained by carrying our cross… and helping others to carry their own, in His grace and mercy.
Our God is all-power and all-wise. Allow Him to give you the power to serve You and others. Understand that everything right we do now, it is because of Him and Him alone. Anything that we do for others, it is for Him and Him alone.
For He alone does wonders in our lives.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, wash me and cleanse me and purify me! Do a work in my innermost being, in the hidden part of me. Cleanse the inside of my cup! Wash me thoroughly from my iniquity and cleanse me from my sinfulness. Wash me so I shall be whiter than snow! And be worthy of joining your Kingdom in Heaven. Amen +
Do not forget the poor, O Lord!
Friday, July 16, 2010
SABBATH (07-16-10)
Matthew 12:8
“For the Son of Man is Lord of the sabbath.”
-----------------------------------------------------
Due to increase in orders and customer demands, most companies now are increasing their working hours. Not only would they operate 24 hours per day, but also 7 days a week. You will see those signages – “24/7”. In effect, the rest day of some employees may not necessarily fall on a Sunday. Hence, people will need to come to work during the day of our Lord.
If the Pharisees still exist today, they would probably scoff at this idea, and exclaim, “Look, why are they doing what is unlawful on the sabbath?” like what they always charge Jesus and his disciples.
Yes, the Sabbath was made for man – it is our time to recharge, to energize our body, mind and spirit – to cultivate our familial, cultural, social, and religious lives. 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. We were made for companionship with God.
But, man is not only created for the Sabbath. Jesus, while observing the Sabbath, set himself in word and act against this absurd laws which made man a slave of the day.
It is NOT broken in cases of necessity (work, do labor) or charity (heal the sick, feeding the hungry). For caring for the needy is obeying the will of the Lord, who Himself, is the “Lord of the Sabbath”.
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. Amen +
You saved my life, O Lord; I shall not die.
“For the Son of Man is Lord of the sabbath.”
-----------------------------------------------------
Due to increase in orders and customer demands, most companies now are increasing their working hours. Not only would they operate 24 hours per day, but also 7 days a week. You will see those signages – “24/7”. In effect, the rest day of some employees may not necessarily fall on a Sunday. Hence, people will need to come to work during the day of our Lord.
If the Pharisees still exist today, they would probably scoff at this idea, and exclaim, “Look, why are they doing what is unlawful on the sabbath?” like what they always charge Jesus and his disciples.
Yes, the Sabbath was made for man – it is our time to recharge, to energize our body, mind and spirit – to cultivate our familial, cultural, social, and religious lives. 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. We were made for companionship with God.
But, man is not only created for the Sabbath. Jesus, while observing the Sabbath, set himself in word and act against this absurd laws which made man a slave of the day.
It is NOT broken in cases of necessity (work, do labor) or charity (heal the sick, feeding the hungry). For caring for the needy is obeying the will of the Lord, who Himself, is the “Lord of the Sabbath”.
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. Amen +
You saved my life, O Lord; I shall not die.
Thursday, July 15, 2010
DESIRE OF OUR SOULS (07-15-10)
Isaiah 26:8
Yes, for your way and your judgments, O LORD, we look to you; Your name and your title are the desire of our souls.
--------------------------------------------------
Metro Manila was plunged again into darkness. A very strong typhoon hit the capital region evening of Tuesday and everything was pitch black. And this was unexpected. The weather bureau advised that the typhoon will not hit Manila and will travel all the way to the Northern provinces. Hence, all preparations were done in those area.
But the unexpected happens. Flash floods, toppled billboards, missing fishermen, cancelled and diverted flights – chaos – all brought about by the unpreparedness of us all.
A lot of unexpected things happen in our lives. We plan and plan for something, then suddenly, God has a better one. And most of the time, because we are unprepared, we find ourselves in darkness and at lost.
God does not want us to be afraid of anything but to have confidence in him. If you acknowledge him as the source of all goodness, he will acknowledge you, when you appear before him for judgment.
Like a father who will do anything to protect his child, God watches over us. So be prepared for the unexpected.
Everyday, every hour, every minute, every moment of our lives, the Lord God should be the only desire of our souls.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, You are my light and my salvation - whom shall I fear? You are the stronghold of my life - of whom shall I be afraid?
When evil men advance against me to devour my flesh, when my enemies and my foes attack me, they will stumble and fall. My heart will not fear; though war break out against me, even then will I be confident. Amen +
From heaven the Lord looks down on the earth.
Yes, for your way and your judgments, O LORD, we look to you; Your name and your title are the desire of our souls.
--------------------------------------------------
Metro Manila was plunged again into darkness. A very strong typhoon hit the capital region evening of Tuesday and everything was pitch black. And this was unexpected. The weather bureau advised that the typhoon will not hit Manila and will travel all the way to the Northern provinces. Hence, all preparations were done in those area.
But the unexpected happens. Flash floods, toppled billboards, missing fishermen, cancelled and diverted flights – chaos – all brought about by the unpreparedness of us all.
A lot of unexpected things happen in our lives. We plan and plan for something, then suddenly, God has a better one. And most of the time, because we are unprepared, we find ourselves in darkness and at lost.
God does not want us to be afraid of anything but to have confidence in him. If you acknowledge him as the source of all goodness, he will acknowledge you, when you appear before him for judgment.
Like a father who will do anything to protect his child, God watches over us. So be prepared for the unexpected.
Everyday, every hour, every minute, every moment of our lives, the Lord God should be the only desire of our souls.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, You are my light and my salvation - whom shall I fear? You are the stronghold of my life - of whom shall I be afraid?
When evil men advance against me to devour my flesh, when my enemies and my foes attack me, they will stumble and fall. My heart will not fear; though war break out against me, even then will I be confident. Amen +
From heaven the Lord looks down on the earth.
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
CHILDHOOD MEMORIES (07-14-10)
Matthew 11:25
“…for although you have hidden these things from the wise and the learned
you have revealed them to the childlike.”
------------------------------------------------------------
It’s rainy season again in the Philippines. And the rainy days would bring back memories of my childhood. We would frolic in the rain – running around, sliding through the wet pavement – unmindful of things that may happen to us once we slip.
I know you also have your own childhood memories – both happy and sad ones. And it is really great that once in a while, we remember them and bring smiles to our lips and happiness in our hearts.
We could only understand the workings and the love that God wants to share with us if we would have the mind and the heart of a child. He doesn’t want us to understand everything but He wants us to trust in Him as we live our life, totally oblivious of what will happen tomorrow.
God looks upon us as His children for children are trusting by nature, especially towards those who particularly show them affection.
Always be a kid at heart where even simple things can make you smile. Take time to enjoy the little things, the many little blessings that come along your way. As time goes by, reflect on your childhood days which re now a beautiful memory.
And, life goes on. We live. We love. We learn.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, thank You for giving me a mind that can know
and a heart that can love. Let me be convinced that all knowledge leads to You and let me know how to find You and love You in all the things You have made. Grant me the grace to put my knowledge to use in building the Your kingdom on earth as I prepare myself for the kingdom in heaven. Amen +
The Lord will not abandon his people.
“…for although you have hidden these things from the wise and the learned
you have revealed them to the childlike.”
------------------------------------------------------------
It’s rainy season again in the Philippines. And the rainy days would bring back memories of my childhood. We would frolic in the rain – running around, sliding through the wet pavement – unmindful of things that may happen to us once we slip.
I know you also have your own childhood memories – both happy and sad ones. And it is really great that once in a while, we remember them and bring smiles to our lips and happiness in our hearts.
We could only understand the workings and the love that God wants to share with us if we would have the mind and the heart of a child. He doesn’t want us to understand everything but He wants us to trust in Him as we live our life, totally oblivious of what will happen tomorrow.
God looks upon us as His children for children are trusting by nature, especially towards those who particularly show them affection.
Always be a kid at heart where even simple things can make you smile. Take time to enjoy the little things, the many little blessings that come along your way. As time goes by, reflect on your childhood days which re now a beautiful memory.
And, life goes on. We live. We love. We learn.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, thank You for giving me a mind that can know
and a heart that can love. Let me be convinced that all knowledge leads to You and let me know how to find You and love You in all the things You have made. Grant me the grace to put my knowledge to use in building the Your kingdom on earth as I prepare myself for the kingdom in heaven. Amen +
The Lord will not abandon his people.
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
STAND FIRM IN FAITH (07-13-10)
Isaiah 7:9
Unless your faith is firm you shall not be firm!
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The family now is in constant attack brought by wrong ideals as shown in mass media and some people who want to challenge the power of God. And if the foundation of each member of the family is not firm and is not rooted upon the rock of Jesus, then they are doomed to fail and go with the way of the evil. In our roles as parents, husbands, wives, sisters and brothers, we must stand firm as role models.
A firm one! Stand firmly in your faith.
Because we love them, we want to give our family members a strong, righteous pattern to follow. In everything we do and say, we demonstrate what we believe, and that becomes their pattern to follow.
Your strong and unwavering faith in and knowledge of the gospel of Jesus Christ and His plan for you and your family will be a great protection against conflicting viewpoints and evil influences. Your obedience and faithfulness to eternal covenants and commandments can bring peace and, yes, even happiness amid the chaos of this world.
Armed with faith, you can stand firm and you can create a home worthy of Heavenly Father's children.
Let us arm ourselves with faith and stand firm in our convictions. With the Lord's help we can build homes that are a righteous fortress.
Let us pray +
Give us, O Lord, a steadfast heart, which no unworthy affection may drag downwards; give us an unconquered heart, which no tribulation can wear out; give us an upright heart, which no unworthy purpose may tempt aside. Bestow upon us also, O Lord our God, understanding to know you, diligence to seek you, wisdom to find you, and a faithfulness that may finally embrace you; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen + (by St. Thomas Aquinas)
Great is the LORD and wholly to be praised…
Unless your faith is firm you shall not be firm!
--------------------------------------------------------
The family now is in constant attack brought by wrong ideals as shown in mass media and some people who want to challenge the power of God. And if the foundation of each member of the family is not firm and is not rooted upon the rock of Jesus, then they are doomed to fail and go with the way of the evil. In our roles as parents, husbands, wives, sisters and brothers, we must stand firm as role models.
A firm one! Stand firmly in your faith.
Because we love them, we want to give our family members a strong, righteous pattern to follow. In everything we do and say, we demonstrate what we believe, and that becomes their pattern to follow.
Your strong and unwavering faith in and knowledge of the gospel of Jesus Christ and His plan for you and your family will be a great protection against conflicting viewpoints and evil influences. Your obedience and faithfulness to eternal covenants and commandments can bring peace and, yes, even happiness amid the chaos of this world.
Armed with faith, you can stand firm and you can create a home worthy of Heavenly Father's children.
Let us arm ourselves with faith and stand firm in our convictions. With the Lord's help we can build homes that are a righteous fortress.
Let us pray +
Give us, O Lord, a steadfast heart, which no unworthy affection may drag downwards; give us an unconquered heart, which no tribulation can wear out; give us an upright heart, which no unworthy purpose may tempt aside. Bestow upon us also, O Lord our God, understanding to know you, diligence to seek you, wisdom to find you, and a faithfulness that may finally embrace you; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen + (by St. Thomas Aquinas)
Great is the LORD and wholly to be praised…
Monday, July 12, 2010
MORE THAN WORTHY (07-12-10)
Matthew 10:37
"Whoever loves father or mother more than me is not worthy of me, and whoever loves son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me…”
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Today’s gospel passage would really come as a shock to most, if not everyone. Didn’t God asked us to love our parents and our neighbors? Then why this?
By now, you should have realized that we are not really of this world. We all belong to the father. Everything in this world shall perish, but our soul shall inherit heaven eternally. And whether we like it or not, our parents and our siblings are mere part of this earthly world.
So when we lose them, it should not be a source of our anguish. We should not pity ourselves. We should not blame God for the lost of our loved ones. We love them, yes, but the love of God is immensely great that He can bring us out of our misery if we would only trust Him and believe in His promise.
It all starts with loving God, which is the first commandment. We can provide and take care of our family without love. But once we start loving, giving is but a second nature. The same is true with God. He loved us first and loving us even if we are sinners. And because of this great love, He is giving us everything that we need.
And loving others is just second nature. It came because we want to share that love of God to others. God’s love was so overflowing that we simply cannot contain it. Hence, we glow in love and allow others to see God through us. We love God more… and we love others because of that great love of God – and not the other way around.
Let us pray +
Lord Jesus, You are the personification of love and the fulfillment of the law. You are the fullest expression of the love of God for us, and the fullest expression of the human response to that love. Teach us to follow Your example and be the fulfillment in the life of others. Amen +
To the upright I will show the saving power of God.
"Whoever loves father or mother more than me is not worthy of me, and whoever loves son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me…”
-------------------------------------------------------
Today’s gospel passage would really come as a shock to most, if not everyone. Didn’t God asked us to love our parents and our neighbors? Then why this?
By now, you should have realized that we are not really of this world. We all belong to the father. Everything in this world shall perish, but our soul shall inherit heaven eternally. And whether we like it or not, our parents and our siblings are mere part of this earthly world.
So when we lose them, it should not be a source of our anguish. We should not pity ourselves. We should not blame God for the lost of our loved ones. We love them, yes, but the love of God is immensely great that He can bring us out of our misery if we would only trust Him and believe in His promise.
It all starts with loving God, which is the first commandment. We can provide and take care of our family without love. But once we start loving, giving is but a second nature. The same is true with God. He loved us first and loving us even if we are sinners. And because of this great love, He is giving us everything that we need.
And loving others is just second nature. It came because we want to share that love of God to others. God’s love was so overflowing that we simply cannot contain it. Hence, we glow in love and allow others to see God through us. We love God more… and we love others because of that great love of God – and not the other way around.
Let us pray +
Lord Jesus, You are the personification of love and the fulfillment of the law. You are the fullest expression of the love of God for us, and the fullest expression of the human response to that love. Teach us to follow Your example and be the fulfillment in the life of others. Amen +
To the upright I will show the saving power of God.
Sunday, July 11, 2010
ACT OF MERCY (07-11-10)
Luke 10:37
He answered, “The one who treated him with mercy.” Jesus said to him, “Go and do likewise.”
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Maybe, the Levite and the priest went the other way because they thought the man lying on the road is a robber pretending to be injured.
But the Samaritan thought – and acted – otherwise. He took away fear from his heart and let one act of mercy to overcome this fear. For him, to help is of utmost importance, and he let everything to God, whatever happens to him.
This is the true story of the Good Samaritan. Overcoming any obstacles in our lives, any fears so we may help and show mercy to those in need. And Jesus is calling all of us to “Go and do likewise”.
God wants people to enter our lives who we think will not deserve our love in order to give us the blessed painful opportunity of practicing mercy. Our mercy to people merits the grace we need to be forgiven and, what is most important, merits grace for the ones towards whom we are practicing mercy.
Turn to the living God for He will have mercy. It is not about living a perfect life of sacrifice anymore, but about people coming together and learning to love and accept each other.
By loving God more than we would have – showing mercy towards others by loving those who do not deserve to be loved, this is what it means by loving your neighbor and loving our God.
Let us pray +
Lord Jesus Christ, you are our merciful God become Man to redeem us from our sins. Open our eyes to the debt of love that we owe You for Your unspeakable merciful love for us. Open our hearts to give ourselves to You through those whom You place into our lives, so that by our mercy toward them we may win mercy from You and cooperate with You in the redemption of a sinful world. Amen +
Turn to the Lord in your need, and you will live.
He answered, “The one who treated him with mercy.” Jesus said to him, “Go and do likewise.”
---------------------------------------------------
Maybe, the Levite and the priest went the other way because they thought the man lying on the road is a robber pretending to be injured.
But the Samaritan thought – and acted – otherwise. He took away fear from his heart and let one act of mercy to overcome this fear. For him, to help is of utmost importance, and he let everything to God, whatever happens to him.
This is the true story of the Good Samaritan. Overcoming any obstacles in our lives, any fears so we may help and show mercy to those in need. And Jesus is calling all of us to “Go and do likewise”.
God wants people to enter our lives who we think will not deserve our love in order to give us the blessed painful opportunity of practicing mercy. Our mercy to people merits the grace we need to be forgiven and, what is most important, merits grace for the ones towards whom we are practicing mercy.
Turn to the living God for He will have mercy. It is not about living a perfect life of sacrifice anymore, but about people coming together and learning to love and accept each other.
By loving God more than we would have – showing mercy towards others by loving those who do not deserve to be loved, this is what it means by loving your neighbor and loving our God.
Let us pray +
Lord Jesus Christ, you are our merciful God become Man to redeem us from our sins. Open our eyes to the debt of love that we owe You for Your unspeakable merciful love for us. Open our hearts to give ourselves to You through those whom You place into our lives, so that by our mercy toward them we may win mercy from You and cooperate with You in the redemption of a sinful world. Amen +
Turn to the Lord in your need, and you will live.
Saturday, July 10, 2010
SHARING YOUR FAITH (07-10-10)
Matthew 10:32-33
“Everyone who acknowledges me before others I will acknowledge before my heavenly Father. But whoever denies me before others, I will deny before my heavenly Father.”
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Yes, we say grace as a family before meal – inside our house. But how about when we are eating out? Do you enjoin your family to say prayer of thanks before meal – in a restaurant? Or are you shy to do it?
Yes, we would sing our hearts out when doing videoke with our friends so we can score “100”. But how about singing songs of praise? Do you feel shy singing worship songs during the mass or Sunday services?
Are you afraid to share Jesus to others? Do you rather talk about worldly things and share green jokes with others rather than sharing with that person how good God has been to you?
Perhaps the thought of sharing your faith in Jesus Christ causes feelings of fear and guilt in your heart. Would you like to know the secret to fearlessly sharing your faith in Jesus Christ? Sadly, there is no special trick, but it is comforting to know that God hears your prayers, and He is faithful to grant you anything according to His will.
Sharing your personal testimony is often an effective way of sharing God with others. The reason we share our faith in Jesus Christ is to lead people into a relationship with God. When we accept Jesus as our personal Savior, we are given a responsibility of sharing His love with others.
And in Heaven, the first question you will answer is “How many person are in Heaven because of you?” What would be your answer?
Let us pray +
Thanks, Lord, from all of us. May we ever feel Your Presence. May we ever serve You in our thought, word, and deed. May we experience eternal peace, joy, love, and light. Thank You for Your greatest gift that is Jesus. May we have the courage to share Him and Your love to others everyday of our life. Yes, thank You, Lord. Amen +
The Lord is king; he is robed in majesty.
“Everyone who acknowledges me before others I will acknowledge before my heavenly Father. But whoever denies me before others, I will deny before my heavenly Father.”
---------------------------------------------------
Yes, we say grace as a family before meal – inside our house. But how about when we are eating out? Do you enjoin your family to say prayer of thanks before meal – in a restaurant? Or are you shy to do it?
Yes, we would sing our hearts out when doing videoke with our friends so we can score “100”. But how about singing songs of praise? Do you feel shy singing worship songs during the mass or Sunday services?
Are you afraid to share Jesus to others? Do you rather talk about worldly things and share green jokes with others rather than sharing with that person how good God has been to you?
Perhaps the thought of sharing your faith in Jesus Christ causes feelings of fear and guilt in your heart. Would you like to know the secret to fearlessly sharing your faith in Jesus Christ? Sadly, there is no special trick, but it is comforting to know that God hears your prayers, and He is faithful to grant you anything according to His will.
Sharing your personal testimony is often an effective way of sharing God with others. The reason we share our faith in Jesus Christ is to lead people into a relationship with God. When we accept Jesus as our personal Savior, we are given a responsibility of sharing His love with others.
And in Heaven, the first question you will answer is “How many person are in Heaven because of you?” What would be your answer?
Let us pray +
Thanks, Lord, from all of us. May we ever feel Your Presence. May we ever serve You in our thought, word, and deed. May we experience eternal peace, joy, love, and light. Thank You for Your greatest gift that is Jesus. May we have the courage to share Him and Your love to others everyday of our life. Yes, thank You, Lord. Amen +
The Lord is king; he is robed in majesty.
Friday, July 9, 2010
IN THE MIDST OF EVIL (07-09-10)
Matthew 10:16
"Behold, I am sending you like sheep in the midst of wolves…”
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After locating the prey, the lion moves slowly toward it, its body close to the ground. A lion normally must surprise its victims by stalking. When it is about 50 feet away, it rushes forward, grabs the rump, side, or head of the animal, and pulls it to the ground. After killing an animal, the lion often drags it to a shady spot. All members of the pride eat together, with much growling and snarling.
But vicious and voracious as they are, lions have to kill to live and to share with his lioness and cubs. And lions kill only when hungry. Their prey can usually sense if lions are out to kill and, if not, it will just ignore the lion.
The devil is compared to the lions and wolves, prowling and stalking their prey looking for “someone to devour”. But the similarity stops there. The devil hunts its prey, not to eat and live, but to kill and forever separate its prey from its Master.
The devil is Satan… the prey is us… and the Master is Jesus.
We should take the devil very seriously. We are to be watchful, vigilant. We must not be lulled into complacency about satanic opposition and temptations. All through the scriptures, Satan is described as our adversary. He is an ENEMY, who despises humanity in general, and the followers of Jesus Christ, in particular.
But the good news is that Satan is already defeated! The decisive battle which brought his doom was won at the cross through our Lord. Be firm in our faith and let Jesus protects us. We can claim the fact that we are beloved of Jesus Christ for we all are His sheeps. Jesus cares about us. We are protected by the Good Shepherd who protects His sheep.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, I love you, I praise You, and I worship you. I thank you for sending your Son Jesus Who won victory the devil, over sin and over death for my salvation. I thank you, Jesus, for setting me free. Amen+
My mouth will declare your praise.
"Behold, I am sending you like sheep in the midst of wolves…”
-----------------------------------------------------------
After locating the prey, the lion moves slowly toward it, its body close to the ground. A lion normally must surprise its victims by stalking. When it is about 50 feet away, it rushes forward, grabs the rump, side, or head of the animal, and pulls it to the ground. After killing an animal, the lion often drags it to a shady spot. All members of the pride eat together, with much growling and snarling.
But vicious and voracious as they are, lions have to kill to live and to share with his lioness and cubs. And lions kill only when hungry. Their prey can usually sense if lions are out to kill and, if not, it will just ignore the lion.
The devil is compared to the lions and wolves, prowling and stalking their prey looking for “someone to devour”. But the similarity stops there. The devil hunts its prey, not to eat and live, but to kill and forever separate its prey from its Master.
The devil is Satan… the prey is us… and the Master is Jesus.
We should take the devil very seriously. We are to be watchful, vigilant. We must not be lulled into complacency about satanic opposition and temptations. All through the scriptures, Satan is described as our adversary. He is an ENEMY, who despises humanity in general, and the followers of Jesus Christ, in particular.
But the good news is that Satan is already defeated! The decisive battle which brought his doom was won at the cross through our Lord. Be firm in our faith and let Jesus protects us. We can claim the fact that we are beloved of Jesus Christ for we all are His sheeps. Jesus cares about us. We are protected by the Good Shepherd who protects His sheep.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, I love you, I praise You, and I worship you. I thank you for sending your Son Jesus Who won victory the devil, over sin and over death for my salvation. I thank you, Jesus, for setting me free. Amen+
My mouth will declare your praise.
Thursday, July 8, 2010
A CLEAN SOUL (07-08-10)
Matthew 10:8
Cure the sick, raise the dead, cleanse the lepers, drive out demons.
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As much as possible, we would keep our house clean and free from dirt and smudges. We would buy cleaning and polishing materials just to make sure that our house is as clean as possible. Anyway, it is our dwelling place, the place where we live.
Similarly, we are created in the likeness of God to be the dwelling place of His Spirit. Then, why do we make it very dirty and smelly?
Do we keep our soul clean and welcoming? We need to periodically examine our soul and look for those areas that are blemishing it. If it is a bad habit, we need to work actively in separating ourselves from the bad habit. We need to take our sins to God seeking forgiveness and letting Him cleanse our soul.
Do you accept that you are created in the image of God and that you are good? Many believe incorrectly that people are innately bad and that Jesus just coats His Goodness over us. This thinking is wrong, very wrong! We are created in God's image, innately good and holy. Our soul must be a desirable and holy place for God to reside.
Do I let others see God residing in me? When we love others, we let them see our soul. The more we let God dwell in our soul, the more others will see God's love for them reflected in is and in our actions. Dirty actions lead us away from God for they dirty our soul. Seek Him, ask His forgiveness and live a life in total obedience to Him. Clean our soul, it is the dwelling place of God.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, Make my soul a perfect dwelling place for You. A place filled with love of You, ourselves, and others. A place filled with holiness. Transform my soul in Your holy temple. Provide the grace I need to keep my soul holy and lead me away from sin. Let others see You in my soul and my actions and may whatever I do bring glory to You. Come into my soul and abide forever and ever. Amen +
Let us see your face, Lord, and we shall be saved.
Cure the sick, raise the dead, cleanse the lepers, drive out demons.
-------------------------------------------------------
As much as possible, we would keep our house clean and free from dirt and smudges. We would buy cleaning and polishing materials just to make sure that our house is as clean as possible. Anyway, it is our dwelling place, the place where we live.
Similarly, we are created in the likeness of God to be the dwelling place of His Spirit. Then, why do we make it very dirty and smelly?
Do we keep our soul clean and welcoming? We need to periodically examine our soul and look for those areas that are blemishing it. If it is a bad habit, we need to work actively in separating ourselves from the bad habit. We need to take our sins to God seeking forgiveness and letting Him cleanse our soul.
Do you accept that you are created in the image of God and that you are good? Many believe incorrectly that people are innately bad and that Jesus just coats His Goodness over us. This thinking is wrong, very wrong! We are created in God's image, innately good and holy. Our soul must be a desirable and holy place for God to reside.
Do I let others see God residing in me? When we love others, we let them see our soul. The more we let God dwell in our soul, the more others will see God's love for them reflected in is and in our actions. Dirty actions lead us away from God for they dirty our soul. Seek Him, ask His forgiveness and live a life in total obedience to Him. Clean our soul, it is the dwelling place of God.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, Make my soul a perfect dwelling place for You. A place filled with love of You, ourselves, and others. A place filled with holiness. Transform my soul in Your holy temple. Provide the grace I need to keep my soul holy and lead me away from sin. Let others see You in my soul and my actions and may whatever I do bring glory to You. Come into my soul and abide forever and ever. Amen +
Let us see your face, Lord, and we shall be saved.
Wednesday, July 7, 2010
HEAVEN IS AT HAND (07-07-10)
Matthew 10:7
Go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel. As you go, make this proclamation: 'The Kingdom of heaven is at hand.'
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Our new project would require hiring managers and engineers to support the activities. We could be meeting people with really diverse experience as well as personality. But, when it comes to choosing the right person, I ensure objectivity in choosing the right one. These people will be working with the team, so it is just proper that we choose the more qualified ones. Their failure will be our failure, but their success would be their success.
Jesus has chosen a few disciples from among hundreds or even thousands that He has during the time of His public ministry. From the accounts from the Bible, he didn’t even bother to interview most, if not all of them. He just called them to leave what they are doing and follow Him.
And these people would not even ask for a time to think. They would drop what they are doing, and followed Him. Maybe, most of them thought that since Jesus was so popular at that time, then following Him would me food, money and parties.
But Jesus is very clear – following Him would mean giving up yourself for the sake of many. Following Him would mean carrying the same cross that He would carry.
Following Jesus is about listening and doing. It is about putting into practice the things that Jesus taught. He doesn’t need to interview you. All you have to do is drop everything and follow Him. And it would not be a walk in the park with Him. For true discipleship is found where people are hurting, where people are hungry, where people are oppressed, where people are denied justice, where people are dying.
Follow Him, He is waiting.
Almighty Father, there are many things your son has done that we will never know of because they were so many. May our love for You and others be our only concern. And may that love really push us to follow You and only You. We are Your disciples, forever. Amen +
Seek always the face of the Lord.
Go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel. As you go, make this proclamation: 'The Kingdom of heaven is at hand.'
-------------------------------------------------------
Our new project would require hiring managers and engineers to support the activities. We could be meeting people with really diverse experience as well as personality. But, when it comes to choosing the right person, I ensure objectivity in choosing the right one. These people will be working with the team, so it is just proper that we choose the more qualified ones. Their failure will be our failure, but their success would be their success.
Jesus has chosen a few disciples from among hundreds or even thousands that He has during the time of His public ministry. From the accounts from the Bible, he didn’t even bother to interview most, if not all of them. He just called them to leave what they are doing and follow Him.
And these people would not even ask for a time to think. They would drop what they are doing, and followed Him. Maybe, most of them thought that since Jesus was so popular at that time, then following Him would me food, money and parties.
But Jesus is very clear – following Him would mean giving up yourself for the sake of many. Following Him would mean carrying the same cross that He would carry.
Following Jesus is about listening and doing. It is about putting into practice the things that Jesus taught. He doesn’t need to interview you. All you have to do is drop everything and follow Him. And it would not be a walk in the park with Him. For true discipleship is found where people are hurting, where people are hungry, where people are oppressed, where people are denied justice, where people are dying.
Follow Him, He is waiting.
Almighty Father, there are many things your son has done that we will never know of because they were so many. May our love for You and others be our only concern. And may that love really push us to follow You and only You. We are Your disciples, forever. Amen +
Seek always the face of the Lord.
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
WAY OF FAITH (07-06-10)
Matthew 9:36
At the sight of the crowds, his heart was moved with pity for them because they were troubled and abandoned, like sheep without a shepherd.
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I still remember that day when we realized that both our kids are not with us anymore as we prowl the mall. We didn’t know what to do and start blaming each other. We are on our way to the security office when we heard an announcement from the customer service. When we got there, the lady explained that our kids went to her and told her that “our parents are missing”.
Most of the time, we lose our way of faith and commit sins. Then, we would find fault in God and blame him for our weaknesses. We would tell ourselves that God has abandoned us.
For us, He was the one who left us so it is just right that he looks for us. It was such a childish behavior towards a Father Who has done everything so we may experience a very beautiful life here on earth and beyond.
It is great if we suddenly realized our fault and just stop what we are doing then go back to where we were before, seek his forgiveness and commit to ourselves not to do it again. When we truly seek God with our whole heart then we will see everything else in his perspective. We will desire what he desires and we will desire to keep his commands.
We will still stray from him daily because we are so sinful, but if we are seeking him above anything else then we will seek repentance of our sin and change our ways.
We have experienced straying from God. It is a choice and will become a habit and way of life over time if we do not change how we relate with Him. It should be our desire and prayer that God would give us a heart that runs after Him, a heart that always seek for Him, and a heart that longs for Him.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, give me a heart that runs after you and is wrapped around you. I want to love you God with all my heart, mind and strength. Amen +
Our God is in heaven; whatever he wills, he does.
At the sight of the crowds, his heart was moved with pity for them because they were troubled and abandoned, like sheep without a shepherd.
------------------------------------------------------
I still remember that day when we realized that both our kids are not with us anymore as we prowl the mall. We didn’t know what to do and start blaming each other. We are on our way to the security office when we heard an announcement from the customer service. When we got there, the lady explained that our kids went to her and told her that “our parents are missing”.
Most of the time, we lose our way of faith and commit sins. Then, we would find fault in God and blame him for our weaknesses. We would tell ourselves that God has abandoned us.
For us, He was the one who left us so it is just right that he looks for us. It was such a childish behavior towards a Father Who has done everything so we may experience a very beautiful life here on earth and beyond.
It is great if we suddenly realized our fault and just stop what we are doing then go back to where we were before, seek his forgiveness and commit to ourselves not to do it again. When we truly seek God with our whole heart then we will see everything else in his perspective. We will desire what he desires and we will desire to keep his commands.
We will still stray from him daily because we are so sinful, but if we are seeking him above anything else then we will seek repentance of our sin and change our ways.
We have experienced straying from God. It is a choice and will become a habit and way of life over time if we do not change how we relate with Him. It should be our desire and prayer that God would give us a heart that runs after Him, a heart that always seek for Him, and a heart that longs for Him.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, give me a heart that runs after you and is wrapped around you. I want to love you God with all my heart, mind and strength. Amen +
Our God is in heaven; whatever he wills, he does.
Monday, July 5, 2010
LOVE, MERCY, JUSTICE (07-05-10)
Hosea 2:21-22
I will espouse you in right and in justice, in love and in mercy; I will espouse you in fidelity, and you shall know the LORD.
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He is the God of Love. He will shower us with blessings. He will provide for our needs. And even though we are sinners, He would still love us and forgive us of our sins, again and again and again. And yet, we still stumble down towards the path of sinning.
But God did not gave up on us. For He is the God of Mercy. He gave us a wonderful life and the opportunity to mend our ways and straighten the path we are taking. We have gone through otrials that, although not pleasant, have made us grow in faith and reliance upon God. The reality of life's fleeting existence has been a constant reminder to us and caused us to focus on the more important things of life.
But still remember, He is still the God of Justice. There will come a time when He will judge us all. And when that time comes, may we be judged rightly to join Him eternally in Heaven.
Giving thanks to God is not an optional thing for the Christian. Thankfulness should flow naturally from the Christian who realizes the great gift of salvation offered through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ on the cross. Jesus Christ suffered the penalty for what He did not deserve (all my sin), then freely offered to us the reward of eternal life that we do not even deserve. What an awesome God!
Hear the message of salvation and be ready to accept it. Be even grateful for the suffering and the blessings from God. For He alone causes all things to work together for good to those who love, follow and thank Him.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, My God, I love You with all my heart. I thank You for having kept me safe this day. Pardon me the evil I have done, and accept the good I have done. Take care of me and deliver me from all danger. May Your grace be always with me and with all my loved ones. Amen +
The Lord is gracious and merciful.
I will espouse you in right and in justice, in love and in mercy; I will espouse you in fidelity, and you shall know the LORD.
-----------------------------------------------------------
He is the God of Love. He will shower us with blessings. He will provide for our needs. And even though we are sinners, He would still love us and forgive us of our sins, again and again and again. And yet, we still stumble down towards the path of sinning.
But God did not gave up on us. For He is the God of Mercy. He gave us a wonderful life and the opportunity to mend our ways and straighten the path we are taking. We have gone through otrials that, although not pleasant, have made us grow in faith and reliance upon God. The reality of life's fleeting existence has been a constant reminder to us and caused us to focus on the more important things of life.
But still remember, He is still the God of Justice. There will come a time when He will judge us all. And when that time comes, may we be judged rightly to join Him eternally in Heaven.
Giving thanks to God is not an optional thing for the Christian. Thankfulness should flow naturally from the Christian who realizes the great gift of salvation offered through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ on the cross. Jesus Christ suffered the penalty for what He did not deserve (all my sin), then freely offered to us the reward of eternal life that we do not even deserve. What an awesome God!
Hear the message of salvation and be ready to accept it. Be even grateful for the suffering and the blessings from God. For He alone causes all things to work together for good to those who love, follow and thank Him.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, My God, I love You with all my heart. I thank You for having kept me safe this day. Pardon me the evil I have done, and accept the good I have done. Take care of me and deliver me from all danger. May Your grace be always with me and with all my loved ones. Amen +
The Lord is gracious and merciful.
Sunday, July 4, 2010
WRITTEN IN HEAVEN (07-04-10)
John 20:7-8
“Nevertheless, do not rejoice because the spirits are subject to you, but rejoice because your names are written in heaven.”
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After completing an improvement projects, my manager would ask me to write a technical report about it. Later on, I would understand why. Aside from documenting the project so others may learn from it, I can also have it forwarded to a technical committed for review. It can then be published not only within the company, but also intra-company. And I would be really happy seeing my name in the publication.
When Jesus sent the seventy-two to spread the good news, He wants them to gather as much soul as possible for the kingdom of God. For the harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. They did come back rejoicing for they have received so much acclamation that “even the demons are subject to us because of your name."
But when Jesus explained further, they would come to realize why they feel so much joy. It is not because of the acclamation from others. It is not because of being able to drive out demons.
It is because at that instant, their names are already written in heaven.
Let us learn to serve the Lord not because we want to be popular. Let us serve the Lord not because we want others to follow us. Let us serve the Lord because it is the right thing to do.
Serving the Lord brings us so much joy, because we know that at that instant, our name is forever etched in Heaven.
Let us pray +
Almighty father, through your Son, Jesus Christ, the harvest has been made great, and you have made yourself and ways known to men. Send your Spirit forth into the land, here and now; let Your calling convict and encourage the hearts You have already planned for this purpose. May we have the obedience and faithfulness in our hearts and minds to spread Your Good News according to Your perfect will. Amen +
Let all the earth cry out to God with joy.
“Nevertheless, do not rejoice because the spirits are subject to you, but rejoice because your names are written in heaven.”
--------------------------------------------------
After completing an improvement projects, my manager would ask me to write a technical report about it. Later on, I would understand why. Aside from documenting the project so others may learn from it, I can also have it forwarded to a technical committed for review. It can then be published not only within the company, but also intra-company. And I would be really happy seeing my name in the publication.
When Jesus sent the seventy-two to spread the good news, He wants them to gather as much soul as possible for the kingdom of God. For the harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. They did come back rejoicing for they have received so much acclamation that “even the demons are subject to us because of your name."
But when Jesus explained further, they would come to realize why they feel so much joy. It is not because of the acclamation from others. It is not because of being able to drive out demons.
It is because at that instant, their names are already written in heaven.
Let us learn to serve the Lord not because we want to be popular. Let us serve the Lord not because we want others to follow us. Let us serve the Lord because it is the right thing to do.
Serving the Lord brings us so much joy, because we know that at that instant, our name is forever etched in Heaven.
Let us pray +
Almighty father, through your Son, Jesus Christ, the harvest has been made great, and you have made yourself and ways known to men. Send your Spirit forth into the land, here and now; let Your calling convict and encourage the hearts You have already planned for this purpose. May we have the obedience and faithfulness in our hearts and minds to spread Your Good News according to Your perfect will. Amen +
Let all the earth cry out to God with joy.
Saturday, July 3, 2010
BUILT TOGETHER (07-03-10)
Ephesians 2:22
…in him you also are being built together into a dwelling place of God in the Spirit.
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Thomas, as pictured in the scripture, is a pessimist. When Jesus decided to return to the place near Jerusalem where Lazarus died, he exclaimed, “Yes, let's go there that we might die with him.” He fully knew that they are now being hunted by the Jewish authorities and will be condemned to death. And now, a week after the Lord’s resurrection, his pessimism persists.
All of these pessimisms simply vanished in the air, as soon as He saw Jesus. Thomas slips to his knees and says in awe, “My Lord and my God!” He uttered the greatest confession of faith recorded anywhere in the Bible. Doubting Thomas does not stay a doubter. When he sees the risen Jesus, all that Jesus has taught over the years now sinks in, and up to his death Thomas is an outspoken advocate for his Lord.
Thomas traveled to the east coast of India, preaching relentlessly. He is killed near Mylapore about 72 AD, near present-day Madras. Tradition tells us that he is thrown into a pit, then pierced through with a spear.
He is speaking to us, doubters today, to those of us who have seen our hopes and dreams destroyed. He is telling us his story of his fears and doubts and how Jesus' life had changed everything.
We are all built together to serve the Lord through total trust and belief in Him. Let us exclaim our faith together with him, as we recount his joy at seeing and knowing the risen Jesus himself – “My Lord and my God!”
Let us pray +
Lord Jesus, Saint Thomas doubted Your resurrection until he touched Your wounds. Once he was cured of his doubt, You freed him and he began the work You had called him to do. I ask him to pray for me when I question the direction in which You are leading me. Forgive me for mistrusting You, Lord, and help me to grow from the experience. Amen +
Go out to all the world and tell the Good News.
…in him you also are being built together into a dwelling place of God in the Spirit.
-----------------------------------------------------
Thomas, as pictured in the scripture, is a pessimist. When Jesus decided to return to the place near Jerusalem where Lazarus died, he exclaimed, “Yes, let's go there that we might die with him.” He fully knew that they are now being hunted by the Jewish authorities and will be condemned to death. And now, a week after the Lord’s resurrection, his pessimism persists.
All of these pessimisms simply vanished in the air, as soon as He saw Jesus. Thomas slips to his knees and says in awe, “My Lord and my God!” He uttered the greatest confession of faith recorded anywhere in the Bible. Doubting Thomas does not stay a doubter. When he sees the risen Jesus, all that Jesus has taught over the years now sinks in, and up to his death Thomas is an outspoken advocate for his Lord.
Thomas traveled to the east coast of India, preaching relentlessly. He is killed near Mylapore about 72 AD, near present-day Madras. Tradition tells us that he is thrown into a pit, then pierced through with a spear.
He is speaking to us, doubters today, to those of us who have seen our hopes and dreams destroyed. He is telling us his story of his fears and doubts and how Jesus' life had changed everything.
We are all built together to serve the Lord through total trust and belief in Him. Let us exclaim our faith together with him, as we recount his joy at seeing and knowing the risen Jesus himself – “My Lord and my God!”
Let us pray +
Lord Jesus, Saint Thomas doubted Your resurrection until he touched Your wounds. Once he was cured of his doubt, You freed him and he began the work You had called him to do. I ask him to pray for me when I question the direction in which You are leading me. Forgive me for mistrusting You, Lord, and help me to grow from the experience. Amen +
Go out to all the world and tell the Good News.
Friday, July 2, 2010
A FLAWED LOGIC (07-02-10)
Matthew 9:13
“I desire mercy, not sacrifice. I did not come to call the righteous but sinners.”
----------------------------------------------------
“Birds of the same feather, flock together”. We always try to be careful in choosing our friends or companions. We do this because we do not want to be called a friend of a thief, or of an addict. We try to as much as possible, carry our names with dignity and pride.
But Jesus is different. He even eats with sinners, like tax collectors and prostitutes. The Pharisees assumed that if a person ate with sinners, that person was a sinner, too. Levi was a Jew who worked for the Roman government. He was a tax collector. Tax collectors were reknowned for their dishonesty. Naturally, using our flawed human logic, since Jesus and his disciples ate with such people, Jesus and his disciples were unclean, too.
He ate not only with tax collectors, he ate with sinners in general.
But God’s philosophy should be at work, not ours. We all know that Jesus did this because He wants them to feel the love of God more. He wants them to see that the mercy and forgiveness of God is not only for the just and the “pure” but also for those who will seek His love and forgiveness. The salvation that Jesus offered is for all.
Levi found righteousness in the Son of God. Levi made no assumptions. He saw, he listened, and he believed. He trusted the One sent from God because he trusted God.
May we, too, live by faith, and not by assumption. We are sinners - spend more time with Him, let us follow Him and earn the promise of Heaven.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, Your Word is life to me and health to my spirit. Jesus Christ is my Lord and I'm a product of His love. I have joy, I have peace. Knowing that I am a sinner, so I seek His love more. Amen +
One does not live by bread alone,
but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.
“I desire mercy, not sacrifice. I did not come to call the righteous but sinners.”
----------------------------------------------------
“Birds of the same feather, flock together”. We always try to be careful in choosing our friends or companions. We do this because we do not want to be called a friend of a thief, or of an addict. We try to as much as possible, carry our names with dignity and pride.
But Jesus is different. He even eats with sinners, like tax collectors and prostitutes. The Pharisees assumed that if a person ate with sinners, that person was a sinner, too. Levi was a Jew who worked for the Roman government. He was a tax collector. Tax collectors were reknowned for their dishonesty. Naturally, using our flawed human logic, since Jesus and his disciples ate with such people, Jesus and his disciples were unclean, too.
He ate not only with tax collectors, he ate with sinners in general.
But God’s philosophy should be at work, not ours. We all know that Jesus did this because He wants them to feel the love of God more. He wants them to see that the mercy and forgiveness of God is not only for the just and the “pure” but also for those who will seek His love and forgiveness. The salvation that Jesus offered is for all.
Levi found righteousness in the Son of God. Levi made no assumptions. He saw, he listened, and he believed. He trusted the One sent from God because he trusted God.
May we, too, live by faith, and not by assumption. We are sinners - spend more time with Him, let us follow Him and earn the promise of Heaven.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, Your Word is life to me and health to my spirit. Jesus Christ is my Lord and I'm a product of His love. I have joy, I have peace. Knowing that I am a sinner, so I seek His love more. Amen +
One does not live by bread alone,
but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.
Thursday, July 1, 2010
AUTHORITY TO FORGIVE (07-01-10)
Matthew 9:6
That you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins” – he said to the paralytic, “Rise, pick up your stretcher, and go home.”
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Are you now very week, lying – wallowing – in sins that you cannot get up. You tried before, but the power of the devil is too strong for you. Temptations after temptations… and you have no power to say no.
So, you have to give in… and sin and sin and sin.
But are you really powerless? Maybe, because you do not seek the power that the Lord can give. When was the last time you seek for Him? For His love? For His mercy? When was the last time you even thought of Him?
Jesus wants us to see that the mercy and forgiveness of God is not only for the just and the “pure” but also for those who will seek His love and forgiveness. The salvation that Jesus offered is for all.
But he gave it first to those who are poor in spirits – for He “did not come to call the righteous, but sinners”. Like the paralytic in the gospel. He saw, he listened, and he believed. He trusted the One sent from God because he trusted God.
Rise up, take Jesus as your Savior and go home – home that He has prepared for us all. May we, too, live by faith, and not by assumption. We are sinners - spend more time with Him, let us follow Him and earn the promise of Heaven.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, Your Word is life to me and health to my spirit. Jesus Christ is my Lord and I'm a product of His love. I have joy, I have peace. Knowing that I am a sinner, so I seek His love more. Amen +
The judgments of the Lord are true, and all of them are just.
That you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins” – he said to the paralytic, “Rise, pick up your stretcher, and go home.”
----------------------------------------------------------
Are you now very week, lying – wallowing – in sins that you cannot get up. You tried before, but the power of the devil is too strong for you. Temptations after temptations… and you have no power to say no.
So, you have to give in… and sin and sin and sin.
But are you really powerless? Maybe, because you do not seek the power that the Lord can give. When was the last time you seek for Him? For His love? For His mercy? When was the last time you even thought of Him?
Jesus wants us to see that the mercy and forgiveness of God is not only for the just and the “pure” but also for those who will seek His love and forgiveness. The salvation that Jesus offered is for all.
But he gave it first to those who are poor in spirits – for He “did not come to call the righteous, but sinners”. Like the paralytic in the gospel. He saw, he listened, and he believed. He trusted the One sent from God because he trusted God.
Rise up, take Jesus as your Savior and go home – home that He has prepared for us all. May we, too, live by faith, and not by assumption. We are sinners - spend more time with Him, let us follow Him and earn the promise of Heaven.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, Your Word is life to me and health to my spirit. Jesus Christ is my Lord and I'm a product of His love. I have joy, I have peace. Knowing that I am a sinner, so I seek His love more. Amen +
The judgments of the Lord are true, and all of them are just.
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