Luke 10:2
“The harvest is abundant but the laborers are few; so ask the master of the harvest to send out laborers for his harvest.”
--------------------------------------------------------
Jesus viewed the whole world as His harvest field. With all of us as His “potential harvest”. It is the harvest season and He knows that all his harvests will be ruined if he did not harvest now. Many souls will perish without hearing his message of the kingdom of God.
But the harvest workers were few.
So, He is depending on all of us to work for Him in spreading the good news. As Christians, we are called to go into the world and proclaim the good news to all of creation. We are to proclaim that the kingdom of God is at hand. We are to proclaim the Gospel, showing people that it is through faith in Jesus Christ that we gain access to the kingdom of God.
The kingdom of God gives us true joy and peace and the love of God while on earth. But that’s not all. The kingdom of God is our eternal home. It gives us a clear destination and direction of life. It gives us a living hope in this troublesome world. When we accept Jesus in our hearts, we have the promise of heaven as our everlasting inheritance.
Whenever we have the opportunity to proclaim the kingdom of God, grab it! Proclaim Him in every situation. Proclaim Him no matter how unpleasant the situation is.
For truly, the Kingdom of God is at hand!
Let us pray +
O Risen Lord, You love us so great that not only did You want to save us, but You want to involve us in Your own salvation and in the salvation of our family and friends – even those we don’t know. From the beginning of time, You wanted us to be Your co-redeemers. Help us fulfill the mission You would give us, that is, to bring the good news of salvation to the whole world. Amen +
I believe that I shall see the good things of the Lord…
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
GUARDIAN ANGELS (09-29-10)
Psalms 138:1
In the sight of the angels I will sing your praises, Lord.
---------------------------------------------------------------
When we are kids, most of us must have learned about guardian angels, either in school or as taught to us by our parents. It is a way of telling us that we should not be afraid to go through life (or crossing that street, or riding that bike for the first time, or in any dangers, whether real or imagined), as our guardian angel is always there to guide and guard us.
Guardian Angels are thought to be spiritual beings that are "assigned" to assist people here on Earth in various ways. Whether there is one angel per person, one angel for several person or several angels for one person is open to question. But whether you believe in them or not, or whether you want one or not, there is really no harm in believing.
I still do believe that I have a guardian angel. And I believe that my angel is by my side, not just to make me safe, but also to provide inspiration, enlightenment and direction in my life. I may have done some wrong decisions before, but my angel would readily direct me to the right path to correct the mistakes I made.
Guardian angels are not just for kids. As adults, we need our guardian angels more. They are forever our guardians – guiding us and keeping us from harm.
Feel then, hear them. The Angels are waiting for you to speak to them. Listen closely and you will hear them sing their sweet harmonious melodies into your heart and soul.
Let us pray +
Angel of God, my guardian dear, to whom God's love commits me here. Ever this day be at my side, to light and guard, to rule and guide. Amen +
I will give thanks to you, O LORD, with all my heart.
In the sight of the angels I will sing your praises, Lord.
---------------------------------------------------------------
When we are kids, most of us must have learned about guardian angels, either in school or as taught to us by our parents. It is a way of telling us that we should not be afraid to go through life (or crossing that street, or riding that bike for the first time, or in any dangers, whether real or imagined), as our guardian angel is always there to guide and guard us.
Guardian Angels are thought to be spiritual beings that are "assigned" to assist people here on Earth in various ways. Whether there is one angel per person, one angel for several person or several angels for one person is open to question. But whether you believe in them or not, or whether you want one or not, there is really no harm in believing.
I still do believe that I have a guardian angel. And I believe that my angel is by my side, not just to make me safe, but also to provide inspiration, enlightenment and direction in my life. I may have done some wrong decisions before, but my angel would readily direct me to the right path to correct the mistakes I made.
Guardian angels are not just for kids. As adults, we need our guardian angels more. They are forever our guardians – guiding us and keeping us from harm.
Feel then, hear them. The Angels are waiting for you to speak to them. Listen closely and you will hear them sing their sweet harmonious melodies into your heart and soul.
Let us pray +
Angel of God, my guardian dear, to whom God's love commits me here. Ever this day be at my side, to light and guard, to rule and guide. Amen +
I will give thanks to you, O LORD, with all my heart.
CALL TO PRAYER (09-28-10)
Psalms 88:3
Let my prayer come before you; incline your ear to my call for help.
---------------------------------------------------------
I still don’t know if you have already experienced the power of prayer. But I do hope that most of us have taken that habit to pray always and anywhere we are. We do not just pray because we have problems or because we want something. We pray because it is the food of our soul. It creates that lifeline between our soul and God.
When we get tired, we exclaim “I need to recharge”. So, we go for a vacation, go to the beach or a spa, or just take that well-deserved rest by sleeping the whole day.
However, not only do our body gets weary, but our spirit as well. When we have problems or difficulties in life, we feel disappointed and frustrated. When we feel that the world is against us, we feel depressed.
Our spirit also need to recharge! Start by putting yourself inside the charging bed – put yourself in the presence of the Lord, all in silence. Then, plug yourself in – talk to Him in prayers. Ask Him to come to you.
Lastly, feel the charge and the current coming in – feel His loving presence, ask Him to clear your mind and relieve yourself of the burden you are carrying. Let your spirit be fully charged, ready to face again everything that comes in your way. Then, remain in Him forever.
He created us in His own image. He recharged us with His own Spirit so we may move and live our life in total obedience to His Word. Let Him enter your life, let Him enter your heart. Make Him in-charge. Recharge now!
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, recharge our soul, recharge our spirit. You sent your Spirit so we may live and move and have our being. Give us strength and a clear mind so we may understand more Your will. Be in-charge of our lives as we totally give them up to You.
Let my prayer come before you, Lord.
Let my prayer come before you; incline your ear to my call for help.
---------------------------------------------------------
I still don’t know if you have already experienced the power of prayer. But I do hope that most of us have taken that habit to pray always and anywhere we are. We do not just pray because we have problems or because we want something. We pray because it is the food of our soul. It creates that lifeline between our soul and God.
When we get tired, we exclaim “I need to recharge”. So, we go for a vacation, go to the beach or a spa, or just take that well-deserved rest by sleeping the whole day.
However, not only do our body gets weary, but our spirit as well. When we have problems or difficulties in life, we feel disappointed and frustrated. When we feel that the world is against us, we feel depressed.
Our spirit also need to recharge! Start by putting yourself inside the charging bed – put yourself in the presence of the Lord, all in silence. Then, plug yourself in – talk to Him in prayers. Ask Him to come to you.
Lastly, feel the charge and the current coming in – feel His loving presence, ask Him to clear your mind and relieve yourself of the burden you are carrying. Let your spirit be fully charged, ready to face again everything that comes in your way. Then, remain in Him forever.
He created us in His own image. He recharged us with His own Spirit so we may move and live our life in total obedience to His Word. Let Him enter your life, let Him enter your heart. Make Him in-charge. Recharge now!
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, recharge our soul, recharge our spirit. You sent your Spirit so we may live and move and have our being. Give us strength and a clear mind so we may understand more Your will. Be in-charge of our lives as we totally give them up to You.
Let my prayer come before you, Lord.
GREATEST AMONG ALL (09-27-10)
Luke 9:48
“Whoever receives this child in my name receives me, and whoever receives me receives the one who sent me. For the one who is least among all of you is the one who is the greatest.”
----------------------------------------------------------------
Lord Jesus, You Yourself said, "Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never get into the kingdom of heaven.” But this doesn’t mean that I have to act like a child, or think like a childish person. A childlike person is playful, open minded and unrestrained by the inner voice of reason, collective cynicism, or fear of failure.
I should start seeing good in everything I see, hear and experience. I should remain humble, for whoever humbles himself as a little child, he is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.
Almighty Father, I am a child once. But that doesn’t mean that I cannot be childlike today. But I did lost it somewhere. It has been replaced by worldly fear, mistrust, prejudice, doubt and selfishness.
I have totally abandoned childlike virtues, and even looked down upon them as being immature.
I HAVE TO GO BACK TO BEING A CHILD AGAIN!
I should bring back those wondrous qualities like unconditional love, trust, playfulness and simplicity. Only then can I bring back that feeling of pure happiness, pure contentment and pure joy. LIKE A CHILD IN ALL ITS SIMPLICITY!
Let us pray +
Jesus, meek and humble of heart, hear me. Help me to look for what is good in others and forget what is bad in them. Help me to put others first and not worry if I'm not picked or am ignored. Help me not to seek approval and not worry about being the center of attention. Help me to look beyond myself , even if it's not my turn, and to help others. Deliver me, Jesus, from all of these and make me as holy as I should be. Amen +
Incline your ear to me and hear my word.
“Whoever receives this child in my name receives me, and whoever receives me receives the one who sent me. For the one who is least among all of you is the one who is the greatest.”
----------------------------------------------------------------
Lord Jesus, You Yourself said, "Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never get into the kingdom of heaven.” But this doesn’t mean that I have to act like a child, or think like a childish person. A childlike person is playful, open minded and unrestrained by the inner voice of reason, collective cynicism, or fear of failure.
I should start seeing good in everything I see, hear and experience. I should remain humble, for whoever humbles himself as a little child, he is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.
Almighty Father, I am a child once. But that doesn’t mean that I cannot be childlike today. But I did lost it somewhere. It has been replaced by worldly fear, mistrust, prejudice, doubt and selfishness.
I have totally abandoned childlike virtues, and even looked down upon them as being immature.
I HAVE TO GO BACK TO BEING A CHILD AGAIN!
I should bring back those wondrous qualities like unconditional love, trust, playfulness and simplicity. Only then can I bring back that feeling of pure happiness, pure contentment and pure joy. LIKE A CHILD IN ALL ITS SIMPLICITY!
Let us pray +
Jesus, meek and humble of heart, hear me. Help me to look for what is good in others and forget what is bad in them. Help me to put others first and not worry if I'm not picked or am ignored. Help me not to seek approval and not worry about being the center of attention. Help me to look beyond myself , even if it's not my turn, and to help others. Deliver me, Jesus, from all of these and make me as holy as I should be. Amen +
Incline your ear to me and hear my word.
Sunday, September 26, 2010
COMFORTING OTHERS (09-26-10)
Luke 16:25b
…but now he is comforted here, whereas you are tormented.
----------------------------------------------------------------
The parable of Lazarus and the rich man is a great parable but most often, misinterpreted. Most think that this parable tells everyone that it is better to be poor than rich to enter the kingdom of God. But is this the true essence of this parable? Well, of course, NO! It wasn’t mentioned in the parable that the rich man committed obvious sins – like killing, stealing, cursing, coveting, committing adultery.
Rather, he was punished for a sin of omission. Despite his wealth, the rich man ignored the needs of a poor man. He enjoyed all his wealth and just be contented that Lazarus lay there, in his plain sight, and did nothing to alleviate his suffering.
Jesus condensed the commandments into two: Love God and love your neighbor. We are not anymore barbarians. We should not anymore be reminded that we should not steal, that we should not kill, that we should not covet someone else’s things and wife. As peaceful, loving people of God, these things are given and should be the norm.
SO WE SHOULD UNDERSTAND THAT THERE IS MORE!
As a true living Christian, we should also look after those who have less and have the resolve to help them, rather than despise them. We may not have all the resources to help, since we ourselves may need one. But it is still our duty as Christian to always be ready to help someone in need, either by supporting him personally or endorsing him to people or organization who can help him. What is not acceptable is to just close our eyes to his suffering and just let the days go by without lifting any finger to help those in need.
Let us pray +
Father, I may have judged the poor for being lazy, for being dependent, for being a parasite, a result of being sinful! But, it is not for us to judge them, for You alone is the true Judge who will judge all of us – that is, for what we have and have NOT done!
Praise the Lord, my soul!
…but now he is comforted here, whereas you are tormented.
----------------------------------------------------------------
The parable of Lazarus and the rich man is a great parable but most often, misinterpreted. Most think that this parable tells everyone that it is better to be poor than rich to enter the kingdom of God. But is this the true essence of this parable? Well, of course, NO! It wasn’t mentioned in the parable that the rich man committed obvious sins – like killing, stealing, cursing, coveting, committing adultery.
Rather, he was punished for a sin of omission. Despite his wealth, the rich man ignored the needs of a poor man. He enjoyed all his wealth and just be contented that Lazarus lay there, in his plain sight, and did nothing to alleviate his suffering.
Jesus condensed the commandments into two: Love God and love your neighbor. We are not anymore barbarians. We should not anymore be reminded that we should not steal, that we should not kill, that we should not covet someone else’s things and wife. As peaceful, loving people of God, these things are given and should be the norm.
SO WE SHOULD UNDERSTAND THAT THERE IS MORE!
As a true living Christian, we should also look after those who have less and have the resolve to help them, rather than despise them. We may not have all the resources to help, since we ourselves may need one. But it is still our duty as Christian to always be ready to help someone in need, either by supporting him personally or endorsing him to people or organization who can help him. What is not acceptable is to just close our eyes to his suffering and just let the days go by without lifting any finger to help those in need.
Let us pray +
Father, I may have judged the poor for being lazy, for being dependent, for being a parasite, a result of being sinful! But, it is not for us to judge them, for You alone is the true Judge who will judge all of us – that is, for what we have and have NOT done!
Praise the Lord, my soul!
Saturday, September 25, 2010
YOUNG AT HEART (09-25-10)
Ecclesiastes 11:9
Rejoice, O young man, while you are young and let your heart be glad in the days of your youth.
---------------------------------------------------------
We are not getting younger. Every hour that passes by means another hour less in our life here on earth. But that should not be a reason for us to be worried. And the more reason for us to enjoy life we have today with the Lord. However, we must spend it in clean fun, always remembering that a happy soul comes from a clean heart and conscience.
As Jesus had said, “I tell you with certainty, unless you change and become like little children, you will never get into the Kingdom of Heaven”. Our God is all-mercy and all-kind, but he wants us to retain our childlike character – humility, full of hope and forever faithful in Him.
As such, we must ensure that the youth of today must understand the same. We cannot expect our children to grow spiritually, if they are not seeing the same from our words, actions and decisions.
Every youth who sits in our churches shall glorify God forever. Therefore, we must confront our young people with the reality, centrality, and glory of God early and often so that they might find Him to be the sole object of their hearts’ affections. May God be pleased to use us in His gracious work of saving young people for His eternal glory.
Let us celebrate always the rebirth and renewal of our soul. Be forever young at heart and may we build a better home willing to be the holy people God call us to be.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, we ask You to bless us, keep us in Your love. Lord, give us hearts that are open, hearts that are humble and gentle, so that we may welcome those you send, with tenderness and compassion. And through the hands of your little ones, we ask you to bless us. Renew that life in each of us, and make us worthy apostles of life in our day! Amen +
In every age, O Lord, you have been our refuge.
Rejoice, O young man, while you are young and let your heart be glad in the days of your youth.
---------------------------------------------------------
We are not getting younger. Every hour that passes by means another hour less in our life here on earth. But that should not be a reason for us to be worried. And the more reason for us to enjoy life we have today with the Lord. However, we must spend it in clean fun, always remembering that a happy soul comes from a clean heart and conscience.
As Jesus had said, “I tell you with certainty, unless you change and become like little children, you will never get into the Kingdom of Heaven”. Our God is all-mercy and all-kind, but he wants us to retain our childlike character – humility, full of hope and forever faithful in Him.
As such, we must ensure that the youth of today must understand the same. We cannot expect our children to grow spiritually, if they are not seeing the same from our words, actions and decisions.
Every youth who sits in our churches shall glorify God forever. Therefore, we must confront our young people with the reality, centrality, and glory of God early and often so that they might find Him to be the sole object of their hearts’ affections. May God be pleased to use us in His gracious work of saving young people for His eternal glory.
Let us celebrate always the rebirth and renewal of our soul. Be forever young at heart and may we build a better home willing to be the holy people God call us to be.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, we ask You to bless us, keep us in Your love. Lord, give us hearts that are open, hearts that are humble and gentle, so that we may welcome those you send, with tenderness and compassion. And through the hands of your little ones, we ask you to bless us. Renew that life in each of us, and make us worthy apostles of life in our day! Amen +
In every age, O Lord, you have been our refuge.
Friday, September 24, 2010
A NEW BODY (09-24-10)
Luke 9:22
“The Son of Man must suffer greatly… be killed and on the third day be raised.”
------------------------------------------------------------------
Did you know that last night, you shed about millions of dead skin cells while you are sleeping? And in the next 28 days, you will have a new skin surface. But why do human shed skin? Dead skin has a way of making skin look dull and lacking in luster. The dead cells need to be taken away to reveal the healthy, new growth and younger radiant cells that are beneath, waiting to show through.
And like a dead skin cell, man must also shed its old and wilting body for a new body. But it is not easy. For we must die first to get this new, glorious body. Indeed, death is really the path that opens the way to this wonderful place, called Heaven. If we lived forever, we would never have an opportunity to shed this sinful state we have now. Because God wants us to have a new body, and He wants us to dwell with Him forever.
The promise of a new and glorious body that will last forever is something to rejoice about. It is also one more reason to be excited about salvation and about sharing the saving message of Jesus Christ with those who are not yet saved. Hence, we should look beyond suffering and death.
Those who put their trust in Christ as Savior have a wonderful hope—they can spend eternity with the Lord in a place where there will be no more death. In suffering, there is joy. In death, there is eternal life.
Let us pray +
O Risen Lord, the way, the truth and the life, make us faithful followers
of the spirit of your resurrection. Grant that we may be inwardly renewed; dying to ourselves in order that you may live in us. Use us as your instruments for the renewal of society, bring your life and love to all
and leading them to your Church. This we ask of you, Lord Jesus, living and reigning with the Father, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, One God forever. Amen +
Blessed be the Lord, my Rock!
“The Son of Man must suffer greatly… be killed and on the third day be raised.”
------------------------------------------------------------------
Did you know that last night, you shed about millions of dead skin cells while you are sleeping? And in the next 28 days, you will have a new skin surface. But why do human shed skin? Dead skin has a way of making skin look dull and lacking in luster. The dead cells need to be taken away to reveal the healthy, new growth and younger radiant cells that are beneath, waiting to show through.
And like a dead skin cell, man must also shed its old and wilting body for a new body. But it is not easy. For we must die first to get this new, glorious body. Indeed, death is really the path that opens the way to this wonderful place, called Heaven. If we lived forever, we would never have an opportunity to shed this sinful state we have now. Because God wants us to have a new body, and He wants us to dwell with Him forever.
The promise of a new and glorious body that will last forever is something to rejoice about. It is also one more reason to be excited about salvation and about sharing the saving message of Jesus Christ with those who are not yet saved. Hence, we should look beyond suffering and death.
Those who put their trust in Christ as Savior have a wonderful hope—they can spend eternity with the Lord in a place where there will be no more death. In suffering, there is joy. In death, there is eternal life.
Let us pray +
O Risen Lord, the way, the truth and the life, make us faithful followers
of the spirit of your resurrection. Grant that we may be inwardly renewed; dying to ourselves in order that you may live in us. Use us as your instruments for the renewal of society, bring your life and love to all
and leading them to your Church. This we ask of you, Lord Jesus, living and reigning with the Father, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, One God forever. Amen +
Blessed be the Lord, my Rock!
Thursday, September 23, 2010
OUR HEART’S DESIRE (09-23-10)
Luke 9:9
And he kept trying to see Him.
-------------------------------------------------------------
In any events, whether a movie shoot, a bank robbery in progress or a hostage-taking, we would see them. In the Philippines, we call them “uzis” (from the Tagalog word “usisero” or loosely termed as kibitzers in English).
People would come to the scene either to help or just to watch in order to satisfy their curiosity. “Usiseros” belong to the latter. Like when we go to Sunday mass out of curiosity. In the end, we did nothing, learned nothing and wasted a lot of our time.
During the time of Jesus, a lot of people would like to see Jesus. Most of them would see Him to ask for help, cure and healing of their souls. But maybe, a number of them would just do that out of curiosity. And the greatest “uzi” during that time is no other than Herod.
Yes, he would like to see Jesus. But not to worship, praise and believe in Him. Herod wants to see Jesus out of curiosity. He wants to see Jesus but he doesn’t want to learn and do anything about it. In fact, he wants to see the Lord so he can have him arrested and put to death
But we are not Herod. We were created to desire God. We were created to desire the goodness and beauty of God's creation. We were created to desire to share that goodness and beauty with our neighbor.
We are not created by God to be “uzis”. There is nothing wrong seeing other people suffer, as long as we help and lift them up so they may experience joy and triumph. We should do something, learn something and put our time in better use to help others. That is our mission. That should be our hearts’ desire.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, You have made us for Yourself, and our hearts are restless until they rest in You. Grant us the grace to desire You with our whole heart, that in desiring You, we may seek and find You. Through Christ Jesus we pray this. Amen +
In every age, O Lord, you have been our refuge.
And he kept trying to see Him.
-------------------------------------------------------------
In any events, whether a movie shoot, a bank robbery in progress or a hostage-taking, we would see them. In the Philippines, we call them “uzis” (from the Tagalog word “usisero” or loosely termed as kibitzers in English).
People would come to the scene either to help or just to watch in order to satisfy their curiosity. “Usiseros” belong to the latter. Like when we go to Sunday mass out of curiosity. In the end, we did nothing, learned nothing and wasted a lot of our time.
During the time of Jesus, a lot of people would like to see Jesus. Most of them would see Him to ask for help, cure and healing of their souls. But maybe, a number of them would just do that out of curiosity. And the greatest “uzi” during that time is no other than Herod.
Yes, he would like to see Jesus. But not to worship, praise and believe in Him. Herod wants to see Jesus out of curiosity. He wants to see Jesus but he doesn’t want to learn and do anything about it. In fact, he wants to see the Lord so he can have him arrested and put to death
But we are not Herod. We were created to desire God. We were created to desire the goodness and beauty of God's creation. We were created to desire to share that goodness and beauty with our neighbor.
We are not created by God to be “uzis”. There is nothing wrong seeing other people suffer, as long as we help and lift them up so they may experience joy and triumph. We should do something, learn something and put our time in better use to help others. That is our mission. That should be our hearts’ desire.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, You have made us for Yourself, and our hearts are restless until they rest in You. Grant us the grace to desire You with our whole heart, that in desiring You, we may seek and find You. Through Christ Jesus we pray this. Amen +
In every age, O Lord, you have been our refuge.
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
TRUST IN HIM (09-22-10)
Luke 9:13
He said to them, "Take nothing for the journey…”
------------------------------------------------------
When Jesus instructed His disciples to spread the god news, He told them to bring nothing. Not because they do not have the money or food or resources (remember, Jesus can multiply bread and fish and feed five-thousand people). They were instructed as such to let them remember that they can always trust in God to provide for their needs.
We are all born with nothing on. We are all naked. And when we die, we may be wearing the most expensive suit or dress, but still we have nothing on, for that body inside the coffin is nothing but mere dust. And so, in our journey through life, things are not always clear for us either and it can seem that we are lost in the wilderness.
Faith — trust in God — is spiritual radar that will guide us onward and home. Everything that we do will be through the power of God, for it is God’s show and not ours. But we have to accept that gift and allow ourselves to be led by it. The fact that Jesus abolished death and grants us immortality should set us free from the self-preserving fear that governs our lives. This grants us the freedom to love and to serve without being overwhelmed by the usual human feeling of vulnerability.
That is why a constant turning to God in prayer is vital. And for those who remain too broken and wounded to pray for themselves, they must rely on their brothers and sisters in Christ to pray in their stead.
And these prayers will help us go through life, until we go back again to where we came from, with our Lord God in heaven.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, how me how much you love me and save me according to your promise. Then I can answer those who insult me because I trust in your word. Then I can live fully without fear under Your great love and mercy because my faith is in You, for I trust in Your word.
Your word, O Lord, is a lamp for my feet.
He said to them, "Take nothing for the journey…”
------------------------------------------------------
When Jesus instructed His disciples to spread the god news, He told them to bring nothing. Not because they do not have the money or food or resources (remember, Jesus can multiply bread and fish and feed five-thousand people). They were instructed as such to let them remember that they can always trust in God to provide for their needs.
We are all born with nothing on. We are all naked. And when we die, we may be wearing the most expensive suit or dress, but still we have nothing on, for that body inside the coffin is nothing but mere dust. And so, in our journey through life, things are not always clear for us either and it can seem that we are lost in the wilderness.
Faith — trust in God — is spiritual radar that will guide us onward and home. Everything that we do will be through the power of God, for it is God’s show and not ours. But we have to accept that gift and allow ourselves to be led by it. The fact that Jesus abolished death and grants us immortality should set us free from the self-preserving fear that governs our lives. This grants us the freedom to love and to serve without being overwhelmed by the usual human feeling of vulnerability.
That is why a constant turning to God in prayer is vital. And for those who remain too broken and wounded to pray for themselves, they must rely on their brothers and sisters in Christ to pray in their stead.
And these prayers will help us go through life, until we go back again to where we came from, with our Lord God in heaven.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, how me how much you love me and save me according to your promise. Then I can answer those who insult me because I trust in your word. Then I can live fully without fear under Your great love and mercy because my faith is in You, for I trust in Your word.
Your word, O Lord, is a lamp for my feet.
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
UNITY (09-21-10)
Ephesians 4:5-6
…one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all…
----------------------------------------------------------
Whether playing “sipa” or “patintero” (these are Filipino streetgames for kids), my brother and me would prefer to play in separate teams. When our father observed this, he would reprimand us, saying that as much as possible, we should play in one team. And this thinking is passed on through the years. Together, we would work to make our lives better. No competition, but working as one for the better.
The Church has also experienced disunity in the early part of her history. Various groups would establish their own belief and would totally detach themselves. Up to now, this is happening as more and more groups would rather serve their own interests rather than serve the Lord first and foremost.
Christ bestowed unity on his Church from the beginning. This unity subsists as something she can never lose, and everyone hope that it will continue to increase until the end of time.
Christ always gives his Church the gift of unity, but the Church must always pray and work to maintain, reinforce, and perfect the unity that Christ wills for her. This is why Jesus himself prayed at the hour of his Passion, and does not cease praying to his Father, for the unity of his disciples: “That they may all be one. As you, Father, are in me and I am in you, may they also be one in us…so that the world may know that you have sent me.”
One God, one body, one Spirit. We are all called to be one, and may we forever maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.
Let us pray +
We praise you, Lord, for making us members of one body by one Spirit. We pray for zeal to walk in the unity of the faith that the Spirit provides. We pray for the will and the resolve to work for unity, allowing our diversity to be a source of strength and vitality rather than a source of division. Help us to remember what unites us as your people: faith in your Son, Jesus Christ, and the unifying power of the Holy Spirit dwelling within us. Amen +
Their message goes out through all the earth.
…one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all…
----------------------------------------------------------
Whether playing “sipa” or “patintero” (these are Filipino streetgames for kids), my brother and me would prefer to play in separate teams. When our father observed this, he would reprimand us, saying that as much as possible, we should play in one team. And this thinking is passed on through the years. Together, we would work to make our lives better. No competition, but working as one for the better.
The Church has also experienced disunity in the early part of her history. Various groups would establish their own belief and would totally detach themselves. Up to now, this is happening as more and more groups would rather serve their own interests rather than serve the Lord first and foremost.
Christ bestowed unity on his Church from the beginning. This unity subsists as something she can never lose, and everyone hope that it will continue to increase until the end of time.
Christ always gives his Church the gift of unity, but the Church must always pray and work to maintain, reinforce, and perfect the unity that Christ wills for her. This is why Jesus himself prayed at the hour of his Passion, and does not cease praying to his Father, for the unity of his disciples: “That they may all be one. As you, Father, are in me and I am in you, may they also be one in us…so that the world may know that you have sent me.”
One God, one body, one Spirit. We are all called to be one, and may we forever maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.
Let us pray +
We praise you, Lord, for making us members of one body by one Spirit. We pray for zeal to walk in the unity of the faith that the Spirit provides. We pray for the will and the resolve to work for unity, allowing our diversity to be a source of strength and vitality rather than a source of division. Help us to remember what unites us as your people: faith in your Son, Jesus Christ, and the unifying power of the Holy Spirit dwelling within us. Amen +
Their message goes out through all the earth.
Monday, September 20, 2010
BLESS OUR HOME (09-20-10)
Proverbs 3:33
The curse of the LORD is on the house of the wicked, but the dwelling of the just he blesses…
------------------------------------------------------
As a child, we would already know the difference between a “house” and a “home”. A house is just a mere structure made of wood, concrete and steel. But a home refers to the people who resides therein – made out of love, peace and trust in One True God.
“God Bless Our Home” – may the Lord God bestow on our family His holiness, love, mercy and hope. A short but powerful prayer that we can utter at the start and end of the day, showing trust in God that He will be with us, His family, forever.
Create the relationships you wish for yourself and your family by being the example you want from each of them. God has seen fit to teach man about family by giving Him a family of his own
Therefore, it is wrong to take your family for granted. Members of a family have obligations to one another. We have a right to expect love, support, encouragement, protection and even preference from our family.
Let us pray +
Lord Jesus, with Mary and Joseph, you have lived within a family; teach me always to appreciate the precious gift of being part of a family. Show me new ways to protect and comfort those closest to me, and let me, each day, do something that will say ‘I love you’ without speaking the words.
Prompt me always to turn back without delay - to forgive, and be forgiven. Let me see your image within each person in my own family, and in my greater family, knowing that in your Kingdom, we will truly be one family, united by your sacrifice on the cross. Amen +
“You know what family is,
For You were a part of one.
Be a part of Your family, is my only wish
And my only wish for everyone.”
The just one shall live on your holy mountain, O Lord.
The curse of the LORD is on the house of the wicked, but the dwelling of the just he blesses…
------------------------------------------------------
As a child, we would already know the difference between a “house” and a “home”. A house is just a mere structure made of wood, concrete and steel. But a home refers to the people who resides therein – made out of love, peace and trust in One True God.
“God Bless Our Home” – may the Lord God bestow on our family His holiness, love, mercy and hope. A short but powerful prayer that we can utter at the start and end of the day, showing trust in God that He will be with us, His family, forever.
Create the relationships you wish for yourself and your family by being the example you want from each of them. God has seen fit to teach man about family by giving Him a family of his own
Therefore, it is wrong to take your family for granted. Members of a family have obligations to one another. We have a right to expect love, support, encouragement, protection and even preference from our family.
Let us pray +
Lord Jesus, with Mary and Joseph, you have lived within a family; teach me always to appreciate the precious gift of being part of a family. Show me new ways to protect and comfort those closest to me, and let me, each day, do something that will say ‘I love you’ without speaking the words.
Prompt me always to turn back without delay - to forgive, and be forgiven. Let me see your image within each person in my own family, and in my greater family, knowing that in your Kingdom, we will truly be one family, united by your sacrifice on the cross. Amen +
“You know what family is,
For You were a part of one.
Be a part of Your family, is my only wish
And my only wish for everyone.”
The just one shall live on your holy mountain, O Lord.
Sunday, September 19, 2010
MY GOD, MY MASTER (09-19-10)
Luke 16:13
No servant can serve two masters. He will either hate one and love the other, or be devoted to one and despise the other.
------------------------------------------------------------
I was trying to watch the TV while doing my assignment. My mother would scold me and command me to turn-off the TV. “You cannot do two things at the same time, and finish both well.” It is true. Both in our physical and spiritual life.
Yes, we need money. We need this in this modern world to buy all the pertinent things we need in life. But being slave to money is the most disgusting thing to do in the eyes of God. For love of money corrupts our mind and our whole being.
So we cannot serve both God and money. We cannot even attempt to serve God with a divided heart. You would either hate one and love the other, eventually.
He that desires to be a happy child of God, will do well to ponder our Lord's sayings in this verse. If it is worthwhile to serve Christ at all, let us serve Him with all our heart, and soul, and mind and strength. Life, eternal life, after all, is the matter at stake.
Sometimes we get sidetracked by temptations and even commit sins, eventually. These desires of the flesh – money, vices, lust – would slow us down in our path of faith. We would even put an explanation to everything to justify all of these, that is, justify it to ourselves.
Ask Jesus to help us detest these self-centered desires of the flesh so we desire Him only, and be clothed in His likeness.
Let us pray +
Oh Lord, blanket our lives with Your passion and mercy so we can make our lives worth living. Clothe us with Your love and unending blessings so we may focus more on the beauty of this world, ready to embrace life fully and passionately serve others. Your passion, Your mercy, Your blessings, Your love – these are what I should really desire for. Amen +
Praise the Lord who lifts up the poor.
No servant can serve two masters. He will either hate one and love the other, or be devoted to one and despise the other.
------------------------------------------------------------
I was trying to watch the TV while doing my assignment. My mother would scold me and command me to turn-off the TV. “You cannot do two things at the same time, and finish both well.” It is true. Both in our physical and spiritual life.
Yes, we need money. We need this in this modern world to buy all the pertinent things we need in life. But being slave to money is the most disgusting thing to do in the eyes of God. For love of money corrupts our mind and our whole being.
So we cannot serve both God and money. We cannot even attempt to serve God with a divided heart. You would either hate one and love the other, eventually.
He that desires to be a happy child of God, will do well to ponder our Lord's sayings in this verse. If it is worthwhile to serve Christ at all, let us serve Him with all our heart, and soul, and mind and strength. Life, eternal life, after all, is the matter at stake.
Sometimes we get sidetracked by temptations and even commit sins, eventually. These desires of the flesh – money, vices, lust – would slow us down in our path of faith. We would even put an explanation to everything to justify all of these, that is, justify it to ourselves.
Ask Jesus to help us detest these self-centered desires of the flesh so we desire Him only, and be clothed in His likeness.
Let us pray +
Oh Lord, blanket our lives with Your passion and mercy so we can make our lives worth living. Clothe us with Your love and unending blessings so we may focus more on the beauty of this world, ready to embrace life fully and passionately serve others. Your passion, Your mercy, Your blessings, Your love – these are what I should really desire for. Amen +
Praise the Lord who lifts up the poor.
Saturday, September 18, 2010
EMBRACE THE WORD (09-18-10)
Luke 8:15
“…when they have heard the word, embrace it with a generous and good heart, and bear fruit through perseverance.”
-------------------------------------------------------------
Jesus spoke only of love. Jesus wants us to share that same love. And this love in our hearts will be the nutrient that will foster the seed of generosity in our hearts. And as we share that love, it will multiply and bear fruit.
To act in love begins in our very own personal circle. It’s gentle like a small pebble being tossed into a still pond. When love starts with one person – it gently ripples outward to the shore – caressing those closest to us. It’s contagious, as we act in love – we prompt those around us to do the same.
As each person in turn reacts to the love and in love – then the small pebble becomes larger and larger. Loving is putting Christ in our lives so others may feel it and see Him in us.
And when we daily put on Christ and walk in that perfect love – then Jesus is manifested in and through us – reaching out to one another, feeling it, sharing one true love with each other.
Let us make our heart ready to accept Him, to accept Him fully and to accept Him forever. Sometimes our hearts can get hard, sometimes they can grow shallow, sometimes it’s over-involved.
Persevere to have hearts like the warm and fertile soil – open and responsive. Our hearts must be eager to be soil that would forever accept His words and bear good fruits through perseverance. Embrace His words, accept it with all our hearts and let others see God’s love through us.
Let us pray +
Lord Jesus, give us a healthy heart. May our hearts be filled with good soil that would continually nurture the seed of your words so it may grow and bear fruits a hundredfold. Amen +
I will walk in the presence of God, in the light of the living.
“…when they have heard the word, embrace it with a generous and good heart, and bear fruit through perseverance.”
-------------------------------------------------------------
Jesus spoke only of love. Jesus wants us to share that same love. And this love in our hearts will be the nutrient that will foster the seed of generosity in our hearts. And as we share that love, it will multiply and bear fruit.
To act in love begins in our very own personal circle. It’s gentle like a small pebble being tossed into a still pond. When love starts with one person – it gently ripples outward to the shore – caressing those closest to us. It’s contagious, as we act in love – we prompt those around us to do the same.
As each person in turn reacts to the love and in love – then the small pebble becomes larger and larger. Loving is putting Christ in our lives so others may feel it and see Him in us.
And when we daily put on Christ and walk in that perfect love – then Jesus is manifested in and through us – reaching out to one another, feeling it, sharing one true love with each other.
Let us make our heart ready to accept Him, to accept Him fully and to accept Him forever. Sometimes our hearts can get hard, sometimes they can grow shallow, sometimes it’s over-involved.
Persevere to have hearts like the warm and fertile soil – open and responsive. Our hearts must be eager to be soil that would forever accept His words and bear good fruits through perseverance. Embrace His words, accept it with all our hearts and let others see God’s love through us.
Let us pray +
Lord Jesus, give us a healthy heart. May our hearts be filled with good soil that would continually nurture the seed of your words so it may grow and bear fruits a hundredfold. Amen +
I will walk in the presence of God, in the light of the living.
Friday, September 17, 2010
I BELIEVE (09-17-10)
1 Corinthians 15:13:14
If there is no resurrection of the dead, then neither has Christ been raised. And if Christ has not been raised, then empty too is our preaching; empty, too, your faith.
------------------------------------------------------------------
Tell me honestly. Do you believe that Jesus lived, died and was resurrected so we may all be saved and may have eternal life?
How about a harder one? Do you believe that when your earthly body died, your soul will be resurrected again?
I do hope that your answer is a resounding “yes”. For most of us, we are exclaiming this truth when we pray the “Apostle’s Creed”. And I do hope that we do not just murmur those beliefs for the sake of just finishing the mass. Or else, our faith is an empty one.
Our hearts and souls should always yearn for the Truth. For that is the very essence of our lives – to serve and follow His will and be the temple of the living God, so we may join Him in the after-life.
This is the very promise of the Resurrection. After the grim reality of death and suffering, we would all be raised again, completely free from sins. I surely believe and know that Jesus lived and died and was resurrected.
If I am wrong, well, I am to be pitied, but nothing is lost, and know many would and do. But if I am right...well, imagine the treasure I would have gained in Heaven!
Let us pray +
Oh Lord, make us faithful followers of the spirit of your resurrection. Grant that we may be inwardly renewed; dying to ourselves in order that you may live in us. May our lives serve as signs of the transforming power of your love. This we ask of you, Lord Jesus, living and reigning with the Father, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God forever. Amen +
Lord, when your glory appears, my joy will be full.
If there is no resurrection of the dead, then neither has Christ been raised. And if Christ has not been raised, then empty too is our preaching; empty, too, your faith.
------------------------------------------------------------------
Tell me honestly. Do you believe that Jesus lived, died and was resurrected so we may all be saved and may have eternal life?
How about a harder one? Do you believe that when your earthly body died, your soul will be resurrected again?
I do hope that your answer is a resounding “yes”. For most of us, we are exclaiming this truth when we pray the “Apostle’s Creed”. And I do hope that we do not just murmur those beliefs for the sake of just finishing the mass. Or else, our faith is an empty one.
Our hearts and souls should always yearn for the Truth. For that is the very essence of our lives – to serve and follow His will and be the temple of the living God, so we may join Him in the after-life.
This is the very promise of the Resurrection. After the grim reality of death and suffering, we would all be raised again, completely free from sins. I surely believe and know that Jesus lived and died and was resurrected.
If I am wrong, well, I am to be pitied, but nothing is lost, and know many would and do. But if I am right...well, imagine the treasure I would have gained in Heaven!
Let us pray +
Oh Lord, make us faithful followers of the spirit of your resurrection. Grant that we may be inwardly renewed; dying to ourselves in order that you may live in us. May our lives serve as signs of the transforming power of your love. This we ask of you, Lord Jesus, living and reigning with the Father, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God forever. Amen +
Lord, when your glory appears, my joy will be full.
Thursday, September 16, 2010
AM WHAT I AM (09-16-10)
1 Corinthians 15:10
But by the grace of God I am what I am, and his grace to me has not been ineffective.
----------------------------------------------------------------
When I was 10 years old, our dog at that time gave birth to five beautiful puppies. I even witnessed it when each of these dog-babies got out of their mother’s womb. They looked disgusting at first, covered with sticky bag-like membrane (placenta).
Their mother would just lie there waiting for all to come out. She then licked each to remove the membrane to finally reveal the cuteness of her babies. She would be very protective of her babies, not even allowing any person to touch them. She would nurture them, feed them and cuddle them.
It was a joy to watch. And it would even be a joy to know that our Father is doing the same thing to us… and more!
Hopefully, what we are today is a product of years of constant “licking” from God so that we would always be cute and lovable in His eyes. And like St. Paul, who first killed those who believe in the Light, the grace and mercy of God has changed him to what he was in the end.
Let God patiently lick our sores, our body, our spirit to take out the dirt. Let Him nurture you, and cuddle you so you can truly feel the warmth of His love. And this unselfish love and His unending forgiveness would allows us to grow further in Him, making us what we are in the first place – a beautiful creation in His eyes, worthy of His love and promise of eternal life in Heaven.
Let us pray +
Oh Lord, as I contemplate on my own sins and realized how wretched and unworthy of forgiveness they are, it makes me yearn for You more, as You are loving, compassionate, and truly worthy of our worship. I say openly that I have done wrong and confess my sins to You, for You alone is upright and true to Your word, giving us forgiveness of sins and making us clean from all evil.
Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good.
But by the grace of God I am what I am, and his grace to me has not been ineffective.
----------------------------------------------------------------
When I was 10 years old, our dog at that time gave birth to five beautiful puppies. I even witnessed it when each of these dog-babies got out of their mother’s womb. They looked disgusting at first, covered with sticky bag-like membrane (placenta).
Their mother would just lie there waiting for all to come out. She then licked each to remove the membrane to finally reveal the cuteness of her babies. She would be very protective of her babies, not even allowing any person to touch them. She would nurture them, feed them and cuddle them.
It was a joy to watch. And it would even be a joy to know that our Father is doing the same thing to us… and more!
Hopefully, what we are today is a product of years of constant “licking” from God so that we would always be cute and lovable in His eyes. And like St. Paul, who first killed those who believe in the Light, the grace and mercy of God has changed him to what he was in the end.
Let God patiently lick our sores, our body, our spirit to take out the dirt. Let Him nurture you, and cuddle you so you can truly feel the warmth of His love. And this unselfish love and His unending forgiveness would allows us to grow further in Him, making us what we are in the first place – a beautiful creation in His eyes, worthy of His love and promise of eternal life in Heaven.
Let us pray +
Oh Lord, as I contemplate on my own sins and realized how wretched and unworthy of forgiveness they are, it makes me yearn for You more, as You are loving, compassionate, and truly worthy of our worship. I say openly that I have done wrong and confess my sins to You, for You alone is upright and true to Your word, giving us forgiveness of sins and making us clean from all evil.
Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good.
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
CLEAR REFLECTION (09-15-10)
1 Corinthians 13:12
At present we see indistinctly, as in a mirror, but then face to face. At present I know partially; then I shall know fully, as I am fully known.
---------------------------------------------------------------
If we want to fix ourselves, we use the mirror in order to get a better view. For the mirror is a true reflection of ourselves. This is the reason why if we do not like what we see in the mirror, we would say that the mirror is defective. Or that the mirror is blurry so we cannot see our face well.
And we see life similarly. Once our life takes a bad turn and we experience problems, we blame other people. Or worse, we blame God.
If our vision of the Lord is blurry, we are all afraid to come to Him. We fail to recognize that it is Him who is calling us. And failing to do so, we failed to recognize Him and what He can do in our lives.
We should start cleaning our spiritual mirrors so we can see life clearly. Life is beautiful if only we can recognize God in our lives.
Lord God, though I stand now in front of the mirror of reality, what I see in the mirror is still blurry. I still have to comprehend fully the mission You want me to do. I may have been already doing it, but I know that still, my understanding is incomplete.
I have to buff the mirror more to remove those imperfections, to remove the dirt, to remove the mist so I may come to realize Your will and eventually see You face to face.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, I shall continue to put my trust in You for You alone is omniscient. I shall always seek clarity in my life through prayers and by learning Your words. And as the mirror becomes clearer and clearer, may I have the wisdom and the understanding to fully follow Your will, knowing that any work done in Your name will never be wasted. Amen +
Blessed the people the Lord has chosen to be his own.
At present we see indistinctly, as in a mirror, but then face to face. At present I know partially; then I shall know fully, as I am fully known.
---------------------------------------------------------------
If we want to fix ourselves, we use the mirror in order to get a better view. For the mirror is a true reflection of ourselves. This is the reason why if we do not like what we see in the mirror, we would say that the mirror is defective. Or that the mirror is blurry so we cannot see our face well.
And we see life similarly. Once our life takes a bad turn and we experience problems, we blame other people. Or worse, we blame God.
If our vision of the Lord is blurry, we are all afraid to come to Him. We fail to recognize that it is Him who is calling us. And failing to do so, we failed to recognize Him and what He can do in our lives.
We should start cleaning our spiritual mirrors so we can see life clearly. Life is beautiful if only we can recognize God in our lives.
Lord God, though I stand now in front of the mirror of reality, what I see in the mirror is still blurry. I still have to comprehend fully the mission You want me to do. I may have been already doing it, but I know that still, my understanding is incomplete.
I have to buff the mirror more to remove those imperfections, to remove the dirt, to remove the mist so I may come to realize Your will and eventually see You face to face.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, I shall continue to put my trust in You for You alone is omniscient. I shall always seek clarity in my life through prayers and by learning Your words. And as the mirror becomes clearer and clearer, may I have the wisdom and the understanding to fully follow Your will, knowing that any work done in Your name will never be wasted. Amen +
Blessed the people the Lord has chosen to be his own.
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
BELIEVE (09-14-10)
John 3:16
For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him might not perish but might have eternal life.
-----------------------------------------------------------
It was the greatest manifestation of Fatherly love. Giving up His living Son, and be crucified to the cross, so everyone will be saved when He died for our sins. It was the greatest manifestation of Fatherly love, but still up to now, a lot still would not believe in Jesus.
They may have reasons. They may have not yet heard the Good News of salvation. Or they may have totally shut down their heart to the Truth.
But how about those who already said, “I believed”, are we now truly saved? Yes, we are saved. But are we “forever saved”? It is really hard to explain, for even the Bible says, “might not perish… might have eternal life”. We should recognize that as long as we are here on earth, life is a constant battle between good and evil. And we are in the middle of it all.
And we would always be tempted to go back to the darkness. And most of the time, we would give in and sin again and again and again. But the Lord will forgive us again and again and again.
We must always try with humility to avoid sin. We must always try to obey Gods laws. We must love and worship God with all of our heart, mind and soul. We will continue to sin and when we do we must reconcile with our Father and come back to the light.
Believe in Jesus. Accept the gift that the Father gave us. And keep it in our hearts forever. We may be tempted to sin, but ask for strength to overcome these temptations. Surrender your life fully to God in ever deeper union with His beloved Son.
Let us pray +
Almighty and ever-living Lord, you restored us to life by raising Christ from death. Hear our cries of repentance, and through this holy mystery of resurrection, give us hope as we believe in the salvation you have given through Christ, our Lord forever and ever. Amen +
Do not forget the works of the Lord!
For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him might not perish but might have eternal life.
-----------------------------------------------------------
It was the greatest manifestation of Fatherly love. Giving up His living Son, and be crucified to the cross, so everyone will be saved when He died for our sins. It was the greatest manifestation of Fatherly love, but still up to now, a lot still would not believe in Jesus.
They may have reasons. They may have not yet heard the Good News of salvation. Or they may have totally shut down their heart to the Truth.
But how about those who already said, “I believed”, are we now truly saved? Yes, we are saved. But are we “forever saved”? It is really hard to explain, for even the Bible says, “might not perish… might have eternal life”. We should recognize that as long as we are here on earth, life is a constant battle between good and evil. And we are in the middle of it all.
And we would always be tempted to go back to the darkness. And most of the time, we would give in and sin again and again and again. But the Lord will forgive us again and again and again.
We must always try with humility to avoid sin. We must always try to obey Gods laws. We must love and worship God with all of our heart, mind and soul. We will continue to sin and when we do we must reconcile with our Father and come back to the light.
Believe in Jesus. Accept the gift that the Father gave us. And keep it in our hearts forever. We may be tempted to sin, but ask for strength to overcome these temptations. Surrender your life fully to God in ever deeper union with His beloved Son.
Let us pray +
Almighty and ever-living Lord, you restored us to life by raising Christ from death. Hear our cries of repentance, and through this holy mystery of resurrection, give us hope as we believe in the salvation you have given through Christ, our Lord forever and ever. Amen +
Do not forget the works of the Lord!
Monday, September 13, 2010
JUST SAY THE WORD (09-13-10)
Luke 7:9
“I tell you, not even in Israel have I found such faith.”
---------------------------------------------------------------------
We always want to be in control, especially husbands. They want to control the finances, the children and decide on things that matters most. This is the reason when something goes awry, and things gets out-of-control, we start worrying and some are even driven to despair. And the worrying gets worse once we realized that things are already beyond our control.
And the question is, whom do we seek? Let the centurion in our gospel today tells you the answer.
This centurion is a very powerful man during that time. From the eyes of the people, he is well regarded and respected for he built a synagogue for the Jews. Thus, they all think that he deserves a visit from Jesus.
From the eyes of the centurion, he sees himself as very powerful for he can command everyone and they will follow. But, the humility in his heart abounds. He still believes that he is not worthy and deserving to have Jesus under his roof.
Moreover, he has the faith. When the condition of his servant, who is very dear to him, turned from bad to worse, he knows that it is already beyond his control. He cannot anymore command the sickness to leave his servant. And only one man can do that. No other than the Lord Jesus Christ.
And in the eyes of Jesus, no one in Israel, among God’s people, did He find such faith. “I did not consider myself worthy to come to you; but say the word and let my servant be healed.” And so, what he requested, Jesus did.
It is through our faith that we are made righteous in the eyes of God. And when things goes beyond our control, that faith can see us through.
Let us pray +
Lord Jesus, I am not worthy to receive you in my heart, the heart of a sinner. But through the Father’s love for us and your sacrifice, your Word has healed us, making us worthy again of that eternal life in heaven. Amen +
Proclaim the death of the Lord until he comes again.
“I tell you, not even in Israel have I found such faith.”
---------------------------------------------------------------------
We always want to be in control, especially husbands. They want to control the finances, the children and decide on things that matters most. This is the reason when something goes awry, and things gets out-of-control, we start worrying and some are even driven to despair. And the worrying gets worse once we realized that things are already beyond our control.
And the question is, whom do we seek? Let the centurion in our gospel today tells you the answer.
This centurion is a very powerful man during that time. From the eyes of the people, he is well regarded and respected for he built a synagogue for the Jews. Thus, they all think that he deserves a visit from Jesus.
From the eyes of the centurion, he sees himself as very powerful for he can command everyone and they will follow. But, the humility in his heart abounds. He still believes that he is not worthy and deserving to have Jesus under his roof.
Moreover, he has the faith. When the condition of his servant, who is very dear to him, turned from bad to worse, he knows that it is already beyond his control. He cannot anymore command the sickness to leave his servant. And only one man can do that. No other than the Lord Jesus Christ.
And in the eyes of Jesus, no one in Israel, among God’s people, did He find such faith. “I did not consider myself worthy to come to you; but say the word and let my servant be healed.” And so, what he requested, Jesus did.
It is through our faith that we are made righteous in the eyes of God. And when things goes beyond our control, that faith can see us through.
Let us pray +
Lord Jesus, I am not worthy to receive you in my heart, the heart of a sinner. But through the Father’s love for us and your sacrifice, your Word has healed us, making us worthy again of that eternal life in heaven. Amen +
Proclaim the death of the Lord until he comes again.
Sunday, September 12, 2010
REJOICE WITH THE FATHER (09-12-10)
Luke 15:7
…there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous people who have no need of repentance.
------------------------------------------------------------------
Some of us would have collections – stamps, coins, expensive jewelries, watches, toy cars and even luxury cars. We would take care of them, so they would not get lost or gets damaged. And when it does, our collection would simply lose its significance. We believe that without that even one coin or stamp, our collection is not anymore complete.
And so, we would spend more time looking for that one that is lost. For it means more than just a thing, but a piece that, if not found, would render our collection incomplete.
The same is true with our Father in Heaven. We are His greatest collections – His children whom He created so He can share His immense love with nus. When we got lost, God’s family is not anymore complete.
And so He has to search for us and invite us to be with Him again. And He did more than searching. He even sent His Son to the “lion’s den” so our sins may be forgiven. Jesus was crucified and died so that in His resurrection, we would be complete again and be part of God’s family in Heaven. He waited for is and is patiently waiting for all His prodigal sons.
God, broom in hand, patiently sweeps away the dirt from our lives and restores us to our God-given image. And as we are found, the whole community in heaven rejoices. Be willing to answer God’s call, "Rejoice with me”.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, I got lost but You found me. Still, I would run away from You and seek my own satisfaction. But, You would never give up. You would find a way to make me return back to You. And as I accept Your mercy and forgiveness, heaven would rejoice for Your family would be complete once more, through Jesus our Lord. Amen +
I will rise and go to my father.
…there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous people who have no need of repentance.
------------------------------------------------------------------
Some of us would have collections – stamps, coins, expensive jewelries, watches, toy cars and even luxury cars. We would take care of them, so they would not get lost or gets damaged. And when it does, our collection would simply lose its significance. We believe that without that even one coin or stamp, our collection is not anymore complete.
And so, we would spend more time looking for that one that is lost. For it means more than just a thing, but a piece that, if not found, would render our collection incomplete.
The same is true with our Father in Heaven. We are His greatest collections – His children whom He created so He can share His immense love with nus. When we got lost, God’s family is not anymore complete.
And so He has to search for us and invite us to be with Him again. And He did more than searching. He even sent His Son to the “lion’s den” so our sins may be forgiven. Jesus was crucified and died so that in His resurrection, we would be complete again and be part of God’s family in Heaven. He waited for is and is patiently waiting for all His prodigal sons.
God, broom in hand, patiently sweeps away the dirt from our lives and restores us to our God-given image. And as we are found, the whole community in heaven rejoices. Be willing to answer God’s call, "Rejoice with me”.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, I got lost but You found me. Still, I would run away from You and seek my own satisfaction. But, You would never give up. You would find a way to make me return back to You. And as I accept Your mercy and forgiveness, heaven would rejoice for Your family would be complete once more, through Jesus our Lord. Amen +
I will rise and go to my father.
Saturday, September 11, 2010
NINE-ELEVEN (Nine-Eleven-10)
Luke 6:45
A good person out of the store of goodness in his heart produces good, but an evil person out of a store of evil produces evil…
------------------------------------------------------
Before the year 2001, the 11th day of September means nothing. People would come and go on that day just like any ordinary day. But all that changed in that fateful day of “nine-eleven”. Suddenly, everyone in this planet have been presented with what evil can do to humanity. The days after which are trying times.
But life must go on. We can not forever live within the memories of that day. The early Christians have suffered and endured persecutions because of their faith. They were killed and fed to the lions simply because they love and serve You, Oh Lord.
For that, it is already comforting to know that this has not happened to me, to us. At least, not yet. But if it does happen, and the “opportunity” comes to present itself, I only ask one thing from You – that You may grant me the strength – mind, body and spirit, to accept whatever You what me to do.
You have done that two-thousand years ago, and you have become our hope that does not disappoint. Instill in us a good heart, so that only goodness and righteous deeds would come out of it.
Let us pray +
There is nothing too hard for You, O God! And you being our Master, should put all our faith on this fact. And every evil, disabilities, sufferings, and disasters of this world would be nothing but mere instances in a likewise ordinary day. Amen +
“Sufferings and disasters surround us
And those are all that we see.
Try to refocus your strength, your mind, your thoughts
And you will find that God is above of them all.”
To you, Lord, I will offer a sacrifice of praise.
A good person out of the store of goodness in his heart produces good, but an evil person out of a store of evil produces evil…
------------------------------------------------------
Before the year 2001, the 11th day of September means nothing. People would come and go on that day just like any ordinary day. But all that changed in that fateful day of “nine-eleven”. Suddenly, everyone in this planet have been presented with what evil can do to humanity. The days after which are trying times.
But life must go on. We can not forever live within the memories of that day. The early Christians have suffered and endured persecutions because of their faith. They were killed and fed to the lions simply because they love and serve You, Oh Lord.
For that, it is already comforting to know that this has not happened to me, to us. At least, not yet. But if it does happen, and the “opportunity” comes to present itself, I only ask one thing from You – that You may grant me the strength – mind, body and spirit, to accept whatever You what me to do.
You have done that two-thousand years ago, and you have become our hope that does not disappoint. Instill in us a good heart, so that only goodness and righteous deeds would come out of it.
Let us pray +
There is nothing too hard for You, O God! And you being our Master, should put all our faith on this fact. And every evil, disabilities, sufferings, and disasters of this world would be nothing but mere instances in a likewise ordinary day. Amen +
“Sufferings and disasters surround us
And those are all that we see.
Try to refocus your strength, your mind, your thoughts
And you will find that God is above of them all.”
To you, Lord, I will offer a sacrifice of praise.
Thursday, September 9, 2010
JUDGE NOT (09-10-10)
Luke 6:42
You hypocrite! Remove the wooden beam from your eye first; then you will see clearly to remove the splinter in your brother's eye.
-------------------------------------------------------------
A wooden beam versus a splinter. What a big difference in terms of size. This is because Jesus wants to emphasize the fact that most of the time, those who judge others are far guiltier of doing something wrong than the person he is judging. And most of the time also, he judges wrongly that could only lead to misunderstanding among friends.
The act of judgment is an act of pride. Judging others is an act of monumental pride - enormous pride, stupendous pride, galling, astonishing, fantastic pride. When you render judgment on another, you have taken upon yourself an awesome responsibility for making the correct judgment.
And still we cannot turn away from judging someone, even those we do not even know. It gives us extreme pleasure to poke fun at someone, especially when those around us will laugh with us. And we take that as an approval, and so we repeat and repeat and repeat this loathsome deed.
On Judgment Day, your deeds will be the evidence of your faith, verifying whether or not you truly believed in Christ with living faith. His judgment is what will give your life its true and ultimate significance. The judgment you made will ultimately judge you.
Judge Him to be your Savior and receive God’s judgment on your sins in His death on the cross. Judge Him to be your Lord and receive God’s judgment of your eternal acceptance in His resurrection. And accept your judgment in Heaven.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, teach me not to be judgmental of others so I may not be judged in return by no other than You. How we live our lives before You and following Your desires, is the only thing that matters. It is the only true measure of how I will be judged when I come face-to-face with You in heaven. In the end, may your mercy judge me positively so I may finally join You eternally in heaven. Amen +
How lovely is your dwelling place, Lord, mighty God!
You hypocrite! Remove the wooden beam from your eye first; then you will see clearly to remove the splinter in your brother's eye.
-------------------------------------------------------------
A wooden beam versus a splinter. What a big difference in terms of size. This is because Jesus wants to emphasize the fact that most of the time, those who judge others are far guiltier of doing something wrong than the person he is judging. And most of the time also, he judges wrongly that could only lead to misunderstanding among friends.
The act of judgment is an act of pride. Judging others is an act of monumental pride - enormous pride, stupendous pride, galling, astonishing, fantastic pride. When you render judgment on another, you have taken upon yourself an awesome responsibility for making the correct judgment.
And still we cannot turn away from judging someone, even those we do not even know. It gives us extreme pleasure to poke fun at someone, especially when those around us will laugh with us. And we take that as an approval, and so we repeat and repeat and repeat this loathsome deed.
On Judgment Day, your deeds will be the evidence of your faith, verifying whether or not you truly believed in Christ with living faith. His judgment is what will give your life its true and ultimate significance. The judgment you made will ultimately judge you.
Judge Him to be your Savior and receive God’s judgment on your sins in His death on the cross. Judge Him to be your Lord and receive God’s judgment of your eternal acceptance in His resurrection. And accept your judgment in Heaven.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, teach me not to be judgmental of others so I may not be judged in return by no other than You. How we live our lives before You and following Your desires, is the only thing that matters. It is the only true measure of how I will be judged when I come face-to-face with You in heaven. In the end, may your mercy judge me positively so I may finally join You eternally in heaven. Amen +
How lovely is your dwelling place, Lord, mighty God!
Wednesday, September 8, 2010
NOTHING FOR SOMETHING (09-09-10)
Luke 6:38
The measure with which you measure will in return be measured out to you.
---------------------------------------------------------------
We all do hate cheaters. They take advantage of our weaknesses. We immediately judge that person as not worthy of anything.
But isn’t it our fault also. We usually look at kindness and loving others as something that has perks, or something that we do selectively. We love someone and expect something in return. And if that “something” is not returned, we would call that person selfish and a cheater.
And how about, if we are the cheater. Do we accept that we are?
Jesus seems to say otherwise. So what if you lend (or even give) money to a friend in need and instead of thanking you, he looks at you with a “is that all?” look. So what if you did good to someone, and he still asked for more, don’t you give more and feel cheated?
But we should accept the fact that everyone is entitled to our kindness. “Be merciful as your Father is merciful” even to the evil and ungrateful. So, why not rather let yourselves be cheated than cheat another?
It is indeed better to be giving something than be the one asking for that something. This would only mean that you have more in life, and that you more to share. In the end, you will be judged rightly by our Father in heaven for you have given without expecting something in return, and for that, you have too much to gain in heaven.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, pardon the unkind word, the impatient gesture, the hard and selfish deed, the failure to show sympathy. Enable me to live happily that I may daily do something good to my neighbor without expecting something in return, so I may have more in life. Amen +
Guide me, Lord, along the everlasting way.
The measure with which you measure will in return be measured out to you.
---------------------------------------------------------------
We all do hate cheaters. They take advantage of our weaknesses. We immediately judge that person as not worthy of anything.
But isn’t it our fault also. We usually look at kindness and loving others as something that has perks, or something that we do selectively. We love someone and expect something in return. And if that “something” is not returned, we would call that person selfish and a cheater.
And how about, if we are the cheater. Do we accept that we are?
Jesus seems to say otherwise. So what if you lend (or even give) money to a friend in need and instead of thanking you, he looks at you with a “is that all?” look. So what if you did good to someone, and he still asked for more, don’t you give more and feel cheated?
But we should accept the fact that everyone is entitled to our kindness. “Be merciful as your Father is merciful” even to the evil and ungrateful. So, why not rather let yourselves be cheated than cheat another?
It is indeed better to be giving something than be the one asking for that something. This would only mean that you have more in life, and that you more to share. In the end, you will be judged rightly by our Father in heaven for you have given without expecting something in return, and for that, you have too much to gain in heaven.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, pardon the unkind word, the impatient gesture, the hard and selfish deed, the failure to show sympathy. Enable me to live happily that I may daily do something good to my neighbor without expecting something in return, so I may have more in life. Amen +
Guide me, Lord, along the everlasting way.
Tuesday, September 7, 2010
BIRTH OF THE QUEEN (09-08-10)
Feast of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary
Matthew 1:23
Behold, the virgin shall be with child and bear a son, and they shall name him Emmanuel…
-------------------------------------------------------------
We celebrate the Immaculate Conception every 8th of December. And may I ask who was conceived at that time? Well, you are correct if you said, “Mama Mary”. Now, next question. Why was it called Immaculate Conception? Hard question? Well, let us answer that later – on December 8. But for now, let us focus on her birthday.
So from December 8 to September 8 is about 9 months. And in case you still do not know it, human normally forms inside his mother’s womb for 9 months from conception and then he was born to the world.
And so, today is Mama Mary’s birthday.
Since her immaculate conception, Mama Mary was already destined to be great and be the mother of the greatest One. It is not anymore important whether we celebrate on the 8th, or on the 9th or in July. What is important now is that in Mama Mary’s birth, God has given her a chance in life to be the mother of our Lord.
A chance that was not given to anyone before, is not being given to anyone now and will not anymore be given to anyone in the future. She is our obedient mother, the queen of heaven and earth.
Happy Birthday, Mama Mary! We are indeed very thankful to God for giving us a perfect Mother. Mama Mary, please continue to pray for your children, for the many times we are not worthy in the presence of God because of our sins and wickedness. Thank you for the comfort that you give whenever I ask it from you. Thank you for being with me always, praying with me to God the Father for all my needs. You are a perfect creation of God. In you, God shows how much He loves us.
With delight I rejoice in the Lord.
Matthew 1:23
Behold, the virgin shall be with child and bear a son, and they shall name him Emmanuel…
-------------------------------------------------------------
We celebrate the Immaculate Conception every 8th of December. And may I ask who was conceived at that time? Well, you are correct if you said, “Mama Mary”. Now, next question. Why was it called Immaculate Conception? Hard question? Well, let us answer that later – on December 8. But for now, let us focus on her birthday.
So from December 8 to September 8 is about 9 months. And in case you still do not know it, human normally forms inside his mother’s womb for 9 months from conception and then he was born to the world.
And so, today is Mama Mary’s birthday.
Since her immaculate conception, Mama Mary was already destined to be great and be the mother of the greatest One. It is not anymore important whether we celebrate on the 8th, or on the 9th or in July. What is important now is that in Mama Mary’s birth, God has given her a chance in life to be the mother of our Lord.
A chance that was not given to anyone before, is not being given to anyone now and will not anymore be given to anyone in the future. She is our obedient mother, the queen of heaven and earth.
Happy Birthday, Mama Mary! We are indeed very thankful to God for giving us a perfect Mother. Mama Mary, please continue to pray for your children, for the many times we are not worthy in the presence of God because of our sins and wickedness. Thank you for the comfort that you give whenever I ask it from you. Thank you for being with me always, praying with me to God the Father for all my needs. You are a perfect creation of God. In you, God shows how much He loves us.
With delight I rejoice in the Lord.
Monday, September 6, 2010
BE THE 13TH (09-07-10)
Luke 6:13
When day came, he called his disciples to himself, and from them he chose Twelve, whom he also named Apostles…
-----------------------------------------------------------------
Do you still remember who are the twelve Apostles of Jesus? Maybe, you would say, “that is kid’s stuff. I don’t have to remember their names.” Maybe, you are right. But do you remember what they have done to foster the Christian faith? Do you emulate what they have done in your life?
And as the 13th Apostle of Jesus, we, the whole Christian nation is being called to spread the Good News of salvation. Now, are you ready for that?
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. It is about a lifestyle of peace and justice that sets one apart from others.
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.
Let us pray +
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. Amen +
The Lord takes delight in his people.
When day came, he called his disciples to himself, and from them he chose Twelve, whom he also named Apostles…
-----------------------------------------------------------------
Do you still remember who are the twelve Apostles of Jesus? Maybe, you would say, “that is kid’s stuff. I don’t have to remember their names.” Maybe, you are right. But do you remember what they have done to foster the Christian faith? Do you emulate what they have done in your life?
And as the 13th Apostle of Jesus, we, the whole Christian nation is being called to spread the Good News of salvation. Now, are you ready for that?
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. It is about a lifestyle of peace and justice that sets one apart from others.
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.
Let us pray +
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. Amen +
The Lord takes delight in his people.
OUR REFUGE (09-06-10)
Psalms 5:12
But let all who take refuge in you be glad and exult forever. Protect them, that you may be the joy of those who love your name.
----------------------------------------------------------
Earthquakes, floods, avalanche, the 9/11 terrorist attack. In all of these disasters, no one really asked what was the intensity of the quake, how high were the waves, how fast are the winds moving, into what floors did the planes first “landed”.
Instead, people are asking a moral question - “How could God have let this happen? Did God abandoned us?”
I am not really in any position to respond to these questions. Moreover, people may have asked these not to question the authority of God, but rather as a reaction to what happened, being overwhelmed by the horrifying sights and smells and profound scenes of human suffering.
In the midst of devastation and helplessness, we can do nothing more than cast weak sympathetic glances at each other, overlooking the greatest strength of all: complete trust in God.
The world is generally peaceful and stable. When waking up in the morning, most of the time, if not always, you would see the same things (your slipper, your book, your clothes) at exactly the same place where you left them before you sleep the night before.
And so, the truth is, when “bad” things happen to us, that is reality. But when we set aside complaining and place ourselves in God’s protection and voice our pain and suffering openly to God in prayer—that is, when you really trust in God.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, You are no stranger to those who do not estrange themselves from You. How can anyone say that it is You who absent Yourself? If only we stop hiding the real behind empty defenses, if only we openly admit our pain to You, if only we let our prayer speak in honest humility for us. Teach us, Oh Lord. Amen +
Lead me in your justice, Lord.
But let all who take refuge in you be glad and exult forever. Protect them, that you may be the joy of those who love your name.
----------------------------------------------------------
Earthquakes, floods, avalanche, the 9/11 terrorist attack. In all of these disasters, no one really asked what was the intensity of the quake, how high were the waves, how fast are the winds moving, into what floors did the planes first “landed”.
Instead, people are asking a moral question - “How could God have let this happen? Did God abandoned us?”
I am not really in any position to respond to these questions. Moreover, people may have asked these not to question the authority of God, but rather as a reaction to what happened, being overwhelmed by the horrifying sights and smells and profound scenes of human suffering.
In the midst of devastation and helplessness, we can do nothing more than cast weak sympathetic glances at each other, overlooking the greatest strength of all: complete trust in God.
The world is generally peaceful and stable. When waking up in the morning, most of the time, if not always, you would see the same things (your slipper, your book, your clothes) at exactly the same place where you left them before you sleep the night before.
And so, the truth is, when “bad” things happen to us, that is reality. But when we set aside complaining and place ourselves in God’s protection and voice our pain and suffering openly to God in prayer—that is, when you really trust in God.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, You are no stranger to those who do not estrange themselves from You. How can anyone say that it is You who absent Yourself? If only we stop hiding the real behind empty defenses, if only we openly admit our pain to You, if only we let our prayer speak in honest humility for us. Teach us, Oh Lord. Amen +
Lead me in your justice, Lord.
Sunday, September 5, 2010
MY CROSS (09-05-10)
Luke 14:27
Whoever does not carry his own cross and come after me cannot be my disciple.
------------------------------------------------------------
We always hear this during gospel readings – “carry your own cross”, “carry your cross or you cannot be my disciple”, “carry your cross and follow me”. Could this be the reason why some would prefer to be non-Christian because they thought carrying the cross is a burden to them? “Why should I carry my cross when I can just drop them and be merry all my life?”
Why are you saying that your cross is a burden? When Jesus carried His cross, was it a burden to Him? He carried His cross because that is part of His mission. He has to carry the cross to Calvary so He can fulfill His purpose of dying for us, for our salvation.
It is an atoning sacrifice. God knows the even if we die on the cross a thousand times, that is not enough to atone for the sins of mankind. So, only the blood of His Son can do that. Our suffering is His suffering, but His suffering is our salvation,
And so our cross does not mean dying for our faith. It means our total commitment to be true to Christ, even to death. Living to please our Lord must be uppermost in our minds, just as being obedient to the Father and going to Calvary was uppermost in our Lord's mind.
Christ's suffering was redemptive, while ours is not, but still, we should die to and deny ourselves and follow the One who suffered so much for our salvation, so we may join Him in heaven when the time comes.
Let us pray +
Merciful Lord of life, I lift up my heart to You in my suffering, and ask for your comforting help. I know that You would withhold the thorns of this life, if I could attain eternal life without them. So, I throw myself on your mercy, resigning myself to this suffering. Grant me the grace to bear it and to offer it in union with your sufferings. No matter what suffering may come my way, let me always trust in You. Amen +
In every age, O Lord, you have been our refuge.
Whoever does not carry his own cross and come after me cannot be my disciple.
------------------------------------------------------------
We always hear this during gospel readings – “carry your own cross”, “carry your cross or you cannot be my disciple”, “carry your cross and follow me”. Could this be the reason why some would prefer to be non-Christian because they thought carrying the cross is a burden to them? “Why should I carry my cross when I can just drop them and be merry all my life?”
Why are you saying that your cross is a burden? When Jesus carried His cross, was it a burden to Him? He carried His cross because that is part of His mission. He has to carry the cross to Calvary so He can fulfill His purpose of dying for us, for our salvation.
It is an atoning sacrifice. God knows the even if we die on the cross a thousand times, that is not enough to atone for the sins of mankind. So, only the blood of His Son can do that. Our suffering is His suffering, but His suffering is our salvation,
And so our cross does not mean dying for our faith. It means our total commitment to be true to Christ, even to death. Living to please our Lord must be uppermost in our minds, just as being obedient to the Father and going to Calvary was uppermost in our Lord's mind.
Christ's suffering was redemptive, while ours is not, but still, we should die to and deny ourselves and follow the One who suffered so much for our salvation, so we may join Him in heaven when the time comes.
Let us pray +
Merciful Lord of life, I lift up my heart to You in my suffering, and ask for your comforting help. I know that You would withhold the thorns of this life, if I could attain eternal life without them. So, I throw myself on your mercy, resigning myself to this suffering. Grant me the grace to bear it and to offer it in union with your sufferings. No matter what suffering may come my way, let me always trust in You. Amen +
In every age, O Lord, you have been our refuge.
Saturday, September 4, 2010
WHEN RIDICULED…BLESS (09-04-10)
1 Corinthians 4:12b-13a
When ridiculed, we bless; when persecuted, we endure; when slandered, we respond gently.
-------------------------------------------------------
The recent Manila hostage-taking that left nine persons dead has stirred a lot of hornet’s nest, both here in the Philippines and abroad. There is this marathon congressional hearing where blames are being thrown all around as no one accepts responsibility. Then, there are these reports that services of some Filipino helpers are being terminated in HK. Then, the rallies of some HK people that condemn not only the outcome of the hostage-taking but the Filipino as a whole.
But there are also those who advocate an open-minded view in all of these. All have been victim of circumstances and no one is really to blame, but some changes has to come out of it.
When our attitude is that of complete and utter surrender to God and confidence in the outcome of His purposes, then we can face anything that comes – good, bad, or indifferent. God gives the best to those who leave the choice to Him. We begin to see ridicules and persecutions as Jesus saw them – as opportunities, not obstacles. Nothing can frustrate the Christian who has died to self and lives out the purposes of God.
As you begin to flow in the will of God, the more mature you become. When people mistreat us, as Christians we forfeit the right to respond from our natural feelings and are compelled to offer a righteous response.
Righteous living is NOT an option; it is our way of life!
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, teach me to live in You even when ridiculed or persecuted. Let me bless them who makes my life difficult. Make my heart and spirit grow fonder in Your love, yearning for Your mercy and grace. And may your same spirit awakens the heart of those who persecutes me so he may see the same light, knowing that You are the only God, the source of everything. Amen +
The Lord is near to all who call upon him.
When ridiculed, we bless; when persecuted, we endure; when slandered, we respond gently.
-------------------------------------------------------
The recent Manila hostage-taking that left nine persons dead has stirred a lot of hornet’s nest, both here in the Philippines and abroad. There is this marathon congressional hearing where blames are being thrown all around as no one accepts responsibility. Then, there are these reports that services of some Filipino helpers are being terminated in HK. Then, the rallies of some HK people that condemn not only the outcome of the hostage-taking but the Filipino as a whole.
But there are also those who advocate an open-minded view in all of these. All have been victim of circumstances and no one is really to blame, but some changes has to come out of it.
When our attitude is that of complete and utter surrender to God and confidence in the outcome of His purposes, then we can face anything that comes – good, bad, or indifferent. God gives the best to those who leave the choice to Him. We begin to see ridicules and persecutions as Jesus saw them – as opportunities, not obstacles. Nothing can frustrate the Christian who has died to self and lives out the purposes of God.
As you begin to flow in the will of God, the more mature you become. When people mistreat us, as Christians we forfeit the right to respond from our natural feelings and are compelled to offer a righteous response.
Righteous living is NOT an option; it is our way of life!
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, teach me to live in You even when ridiculed or persecuted. Let me bless them who makes my life difficult. Make my heart and spirit grow fonder in Your love, yearning for Your mercy and grace. And may your same spirit awakens the heart of those who persecutes me so he may see the same light, knowing that You are the only God, the source of everything. Amen +
The Lord is near to all who call upon him.
Friday, September 3, 2010
SERVANTS OF THE TRUTH (09-03-10)
1 Corinthians 4:1
Thus should one regard us: as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God.
----------------------------------------------------------------
In our relationship with the Lord, we always think that we are the master and God is our slave. Our prayers tend to be "give me" prayers – “Please help my business succeed”, “Heal my mother's cancer”, “Work in my boss's heart to give me a raise”. We are His servant, not the other way around!
Our prayer should be of servant’s prayer: “Father, what do you want me to do today?”, “How can I help my friend learn to be brave in face of sufferings?, “Give me strength and boldness to witness for you so others may know You.”
We are His servants, His slaves first. We are not to presume upon God and expect his thanks. Instead we are to serve him dutifully without any expectation of reward.
A true servant of God chooses to be like Christ in serving God and others. They see freedom not as a great way of doing something for themselves, but as the freedom to do what's needed to lift someone else who needs it.
We should realize that the way we handle life here on earth reflects the kind of life we will have in heaven then we can aspire for serving only one God. If we can be entrusted with small things, great blessings will surely come.
And after we have learned that lesson of obedience, hear His voice as He call us his “friends”.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, give me a servant’s heart. Help me to better understand my appropriate role as your slave, so when you graciously grant me your friendship I might truly appreciate your love. Amen +
The salvation of the just comes from the Lord.
Thus should one regard us: as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God.
----------------------------------------------------------------
In our relationship with the Lord, we always think that we are the master and God is our slave. Our prayers tend to be "give me" prayers – “Please help my business succeed”, “Heal my mother's cancer”, “Work in my boss's heart to give me a raise”. We are His servant, not the other way around!
Our prayer should be of servant’s prayer: “Father, what do you want me to do today?”, “How can I help my friend learn to be brave in face of sufferings?, “Give me strength and boldness to witness for you so others may know You.”
We are His servants, His slaves first. We are not to presume upon God and expect his thanks. Instead we are to serve him dutifully without any expectation of reward.
A true servant of God chooses to be like Christ in serving God and others. They see freedom not as a great way of doing something for themselves, but as the freedom to do what's needed to lift someone else who needs it.
We should realize that the way we handle life here on earth reflects the kind of life we will have in heaven then we can aspire for serving only one God. If we can be entrusted with small things, great blessings will surely come.
And after we have learned that lesson of obedience, hear His voice as He call us his “friends”.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, give me a servant’s heart. Help me to better understand my appropriate role as your slave, so when you graciously grant me your friendship I might truly appreciate your love. Amen +
The salvation of the just comes from the Lord.
Thursday, September 2, 2010
LOWER YOUR NETS (09-02-10)
Luke 5:3-4
Then Jesus sat down and taught the crowds from the boat. After he had finished speaking, he said to Simon, “Put out into deep water and lower your nets for a catch.”
--------------------------------------------------------------
Simon must be very happy at that time. Imagine, he is only a fisherman, but Jesus requested from him to use his boat. Not for fishing, but to be a vessel where the Lord would teach the people about the Kingdom of God. And it doesn’t end there. He asked Simon also to join Him as they go on sharing the word of God to the whole world.
We cannot say that “I am just a simple person”, that we do not have the influence or the talent to talk to people. Most of the time, there would be at least a little bit of doubt going through our mind when Jesus wants us to go fishing. We would be questioning Him, and start questioning ourselves. Are we really worthy to be His follower and be His fisherman?
The more we question Him, the more we worry, the more we doubt ourselves and God. We worry about how God might think of us. He might think we don’t have much faith in Him. Or even worse, other Christians might think we don’t have much faith.
But what are we afraid of? Every one of us is here because God has called us to his work in one way or another. We're here because we've heard that calling, we want to serve him and his Church.
Yes, there may be many things to fear – in our own lives, in the world, and in our life as a Church. But God has a plan for us and he wants us to take hold of it. We are all called to a life of righteousness and to be the fishers of men. Let Him use you as a vessel to a life of ministry.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, thank You for showing us a little. But we know that once we follow Your words, we would be getting more than what we expect. Teach and help us catch men in order to free them from death and to enable them to grow. Please let us understand more, and please don’t leave us alone until we do something about it. Amen +
To the Lord belongs the earth and all that fills it.
Then Jesus sat down and taught the crowds from the boat. After he had finished speaking, he said to Simon, “Put out into deep water and lower your nets for a catch.”
--------------------------------------------------------------
Simon must be very happy at that time. Imagine, he is only a fisherman, but Jesus requested from him to use his boat. Not for fishing, but to be a vessel where the Lord would teach the people about the Kingdom of God. And it doesn’t end there. He asked Simon also to join Him as they go on sharing the word of God to the whole world.
We cannot say that “I am just a simple person”, that we do not have the influence or the talent to talk to people. Most of the time, there would be at least a little bit of doubt going through our mind when Jesus wants us to go fishing. We would be questioning Him, and start questioning ourselves. Are we really worthy to be His follower and be His fisherman?
The more we question Him, the more we worry, the more we doubt ourselves and God. We worry about how God might think of us. He might think we don’t have much faith in Him. Or even worse, other Christians might think we don’t have much faith.
But what are we afraid of? Every one of us is here because God has called us to his work in one way or another. We're here because we've heard that calling, we want to serve him and his Church.
Yes, there may be many things to fear – in our own lives, in the world, and in our life as a Church. But God has a plan for us and he wants us to take hold of it. We are all called to a life of righteousness and to be the fishers of men. Let Him use you as a vessel to a life of ministry.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, thank You for showing us a little. But we know that once we follow Your words, we would be getting more than what we expect. Teach and help us catch men in order to free them from death and to enable them to grow. Please let us understand more, and please don’t leave us alone until we do something about it. Amen +
To the Lord belongs the earth and all that fills it.
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
WHY AM I HERE? (09-01-10)
Luke 4:43
“I must proclaim the good news of the Kingdom of God, because for this purpose I have been sent.”
-----------------------------------------------------------
We are here on earth for a purpose. We always hear this. But how do we know what that purpose is? Maybe, we are at lost since we always think of a very specific purpose. But how specific can we be?
Let us start with the Lord. Even before coming to the world, Jesus knows His purpose – proclaiming the Kingdom of God. His kind of power may not be what the world expected but it is enough to claim us and make us sons and daughters of the most high God.
So, is our purpose here on earth different from Him? Aren’t we also called to proclaim with our lives that the power and truth of God and that we are all called to proclaim the message of Christ's reign? Aren’t we all called to proclaim to those around us that there is a way which can cast out the demons that deceive us and create chaos in our lives?
You don’t have to speak like the great speakers you know. You don’t have to write like the great writers there is. For you to share Jesus to others, all you need to do is to live the life He lived.
For your action speaks louder than words. Your action should proclaim that the Kingdom of God is at hand; that is the reason why we live. Stop looking for your purpose and start living a life dedicated to fostering the Kingdom into the hearts of men. That is our reason for being.
That is our purpose in life.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, You can see me struggling to find my way. I'm coming before You because You are the God of the Universe and worthy of my every praise. I want to discover Your purpose for my life. I know there's more for me out there, and I know You have an awesome plan for me. Thank You Lord, for being here to help me, for caring enough about me to show me what to do next. I ask all things in Jesus' name. Amen +
Blessed the people the Lord has chosen to be his own.
“I must proclaim the good news of the Kingdom of God, because for this purpose I have been sent.”
-----------------------------------------------------------
We are here on earth for a purpose. We always hear this. But how do we know what that purpose is? Maybe, we are at lost since we always think of a very specific purpose. But how specific can we be?
Let us start with the Lord. Even before coming to the world, Jesus knows His purpose – proclaiming the Kingdom of God. His kind of power may not be what the world expected but it is enough to claim us and make us sons and daughters of the most high God.
So, is our purpose here on earth different from Him? Aren’t we also called to proclaim with our lives that the power and truth of God and that we are all called to proclaim the message of Christ's reign? Aren’t we all called to proclaim to those around us that there is a way which can cast out the demons that deceive us and create chaos in our lives?
You don’t have to speak like the great speakers you know. You don’t have to write like the great writers there is. For you to share Jesus to others, all you need to do is to live the life He lived.
For your action speaks louder than words. Your action should proclaim that the Kingdom of God is at hand; that is the reason why we live. Stop looking for your purpose and start living a life dedicated to fostering the Kingdom into the hearts of men. That is our reason for being.
That is our purpose in life.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, You can see me struggling to find my way. I'm coming before You because You are the God of the Universe and worthy of my every praise. I want to discover Your purpose for my life. I know there's more for me out there, and I know You have an awesome plan for me. Thank You Lord, for being here to help me, for caring enough about me to show me what to do next. I ask all things in Jesus' name. Amen +
Blessed the people the Lord has chosen to be his own.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)