John 1:16-17
From his fullness we have all received, grace in place of grace... while the law was given through Moses, grace and truth came through Jesus Christ.
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Once upon a time, a very strong woodcutter ask for a job in a timber merchant, and he got it. The pay was really good and so were the work conditions. For that reason, the woodcutter was determined to do his best. His boss gave him an axe and showed him the work area.
The first day, the woodcutter brought 18 trees "Congratulations," the boss said. "Go on that way!" Very motivated for the boss’ words, the woodcutter try harder the next day, but he only could bring 15 trees. The third day he try even harder, but he only could bring 10 trees.
Day after day he was bringing less and less trees. "I must be losing my strength", the woodcutter thought. He went to the boss and apologized, saying that he could not understand what was going on.
"When was the last time you sharpened your axe?" the boss asked.
"Sharpen? I had no time to sharpen my axe. I have been very busy trying to cut trees..."
In the coming new year, let’s find a quiet place and start assessing ourselves. Make plans to sharpen our skills, our knowledge and of course, our spirit. God will continue to sharpen us, for we are the swords God has chosen to sharpen others for His great work until the end of time.
Almighty Father, sharpen me. May I continue to grow in You, continually learning Your words, understanding Your will and doing what is right. I submit myself to Your Son, Jesus so we see Him clearly as His kingdom come in our lives and in the world!
Oh Lord, Your word is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart. We pray for each other today, as we share Your great work with each other through our friendships.
Sing to the LORD a new song; sing to the LORD, all you lands.
Friday, December 31, 2010
Thursday, December 30, 2010
REMAIN IN HIM FOREVER (12-30-10)
1 John 2:16
For all that is in the world, sensual lust, enticement for the eyes, and a pretentious life, is not from the Father but is from the world.
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Seeing those children dressed in new clothes, walking down the street from house to house, at Christmas morning, would bring back memories of my childhood, as we do the same together with my kid brother and some friends.
We would visit our godfathers and godmothers, expecting to get something in return – a gift or some money. And we would prefer the latter, for it can be used to buy something that we need.
And in this material world, children would continue to ask for material things as gift during Christmas time. Are they at fault? Of course not! They are just living a life in which they were raised – a life full of materialism, yearning for more that is from this world.
And as parents, we need to start guiding them – teaching them that there is more than just the richness of this world. We should start teaching them about the richness that is heaven. Richness that would forever be in them. Richness that would never be destroyed.
This new year, may we all remember the true gift of Christmas – Jesus Christ, our Lord so that we may forever inherit the richness of heaven.
Teach that to our children. Teach that to ourselves.
Let us pray +
Oh Lord, as we look at the vastness of the universe that the You have created, we are overwhelmed with Your love. What comfort, what peace and what joy do we constantly feel under Your immense greatness. May the new year brings us more blessings, for in Your name, we put our trust. Amen +
Let the heavens be glad and the earth rejoice!
For all that is in the world, sensual lust, enticement for the eyes, and a pretentious life, is not from the Father but is from the world.
---------------------------------------------------------
Seeing those children dressed in new clothes, walking down the street from house to house, at Christmas morning, would bring back memories of my childhood, as we do the same together with my kid brother and some friends.
We would visit our godfathers and godmothers, expecting to get something in return – a gift or some money. And we would prefer the latter, for it can be used to buy something that we need.
And in this material world, children would continue to ask for material things as gift during Christmas time. Are they at fault? Of course not! They are just living a life in which they were raised – a life full of materialism, yearning for more that is from this world.
And as parents, we need to start guiding them – teaching them that there is more than just the richness of this world. We should start teaching them about the richness that is heaven. Richness that would forever be in them. Richness that would never be destroyed.
This new year, may we all remember the true gift of Christmas – Jesus Christ, our Lord so that we may forever inherit the richness of heaven.
Teach that to our children. Teach that to ourselves.
Let us pray +
Oh Lord, as we look at the vastness of the universe that the You have created, we are overwhelmed with Your love. What comfort, what peace and what joy do we constantly feel under Your immense greatness. May the new year brings us more blessings, for in Your name, we put our trust. Amen +
Let the heavens be glad and the earth rejoice!
Wednesday, December 29, 2010
REASON FOR LIFE (12-29-10)
1 John 2:5-6
This is the way we may know that we are in union with him: whoever claims to abide in him ought to walk just as he walked.
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God only promises us today. We don't know what is ahead of us. But God knows. He doesn't always show us what is in store for us or even if we will have a tomorrow. So we should live our lives as if each day is the last. How terrible it would be to live your whole life and in the end be full of regret. Live life to the fullest – for the goodness and glory of God!
Be blessed with this beautiful message from Ecclesiastes 3:1-8
For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven:
a time to be born, and a time to die;
a time to plant, and a time to pluck up what is planted;
a time to kill, and a time to heal;
a time to break down, and a time to build up;
a time to weep, and a time to laugh;
a time to mourn, and a time to dance;
a time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together;
a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing;
a time to seek, and a time to lose;
a time to keep, and a time to cast away;
a time to rend, and a time to sew;
a time to keep silence, and a time to speak;
a time to love, and a time to hate;
a time for war, and a time for peace.
Oh Lord, as we look at the vastness of the universe that the You have created, we are overwhelmed with Your love. What comfort, what peace and what joy do we constantly feel under Your immense greatness. May the new year brings us more blessings, for in Your name, we put our trust.
Let the heavens be glad and the earth rejoice!
This is the way we may know that we are in union with him: whoever claims to abide in him ought to walk just as he walked.
------------------------------------------------------------
God only promises us today. We don't know what is ahead of us. But God knows. He doesn't always show us what is in store for us or even if we will have a tomorrow. So we should live our lives as if each day is the last. How terrible it would be to live your whole life and in the end be full of regret. Live life to the fullest – for the goodness and glory of God!
Be blessed with this beautiful message from Ecclesiastes 3:1-8
For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven:
a time to be born, and a time to die;
a time to plant, and a time to pluck up what is planted;
a time to kill, and a time to heal;
a time to break down, and a time to build up;
a time to weep, and a time to laugh;
a time to mourn, and a time to dance;
a time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together;
a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing;
a time to seek, and a time to lose;
a time to keep, and a time to cast away;
a time to rend, and a time to sew;
a time to keep silence, and a time to speak;
a time to love, and a time to hate;
a time for war, and a time for peace.
Oh Lord, as we look at the vastness of the universe that the You have created, we are overwhelmed with Your love. What comfort, what peace and what joy do we constantly feel under Your immense greatness. May the new year brings us more blessings, for in Your name, we put our trust.
Let the heavens be glad and the earth rejoice!
Tuesday, December 28, 2010
BRING BACK INNOCENCE (12-28-10)
Feast of the Holy Innocents
Luke 21:36
“Rise, take the child and his mother, flee to Egypt, and stay there until I tell you. Herod is going to search for the child to destroy him.”
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Two-thousand years ago, the devil used Herod to execute all innocent male children in Bethlehem the hope of killing the Child Jesus.
Today, the devil is using another tool to take that innocence out of our children –
…taking their mind out from godly existence
… and to live a life full of lust and worldly anxieties,
All for this, in the hope of killing Jesus in their hearts.
We can now see it everywhere – the magazines we read, the songs we sing, the music we dance to, the billboards along the busy highways – pictures or themes or messages that promote sex and sexuality.
And the bad news is that these same messages are picked-up by our children.
Today’s sex-obsessed culture forces children into roles they are not mentally, physically or emotionally ready to handle.
Innocence is dying in our children.
When will parents act like adults and rise up to say, “enough!”?
Let us pray +
Oh Lord, through our prayers, may we reach purity. Through our prayers, may we be example of purity. Through our prayers, may we teach others purity. Through our prayers, let all things we are become pure.
Amen +
Our soul has been rescued like a bird from the fowler’s snare.
Luke 21:36
“Rise, take the child and his mother, flee to Egypt, and stay there until I tell you. Herod is going to search for the child to destroy him.”
--------------------------------------------------------------
Two-thousand years ago, the devil used Herod to execute all innocent male children in Bethlehem the hope of killing the Child Jesus.
Today, the devil is using another tool to take that innocence out of our children –
…taking their mind out from godly existence
… and to live a life full of lust and worldly anxieties,
All for this, in the hope of killing Jesus in their hearts.
We can now see it everywhere – the magazines we read, the songs we sing, the music we dance to, the billboards along the busy highways – pictures or themes or messages that promote sex and sexuality.
And the bad news is that these same messages are picked-up by our children.
Today’s sex-obsessed culture forces children into roles they are not mentally, physically or emotionally ready to handle.
Innocence is dying in our children.
When will parents act like adults and rise up to say, “enough!”?
Let us pray +
Oh Lord, through our prayers, may we reach purity. Through our prayers, may we be example of purity. Through our prayers, may we teach others purity. Through our prayers, let all things we are become pure.
Amen +
Our soul has been rescued like a bird from the fowler’s snare.
Monday, December 27, 2010
OUTSIDE LINE (12-27-10)
Psalms 9:11
Sing praises to the LORD, who dwells in Zion! Tell among the peoples his deeds!
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It was my first day at work. I was really very excited to call my parents to tell them that I was already accepted as a cadet engineer. Before I left the house that day, I asked them to pray for me that I be accepted for the position, whatever it is.
When accepted for the job, it’s my turn to advise them about the good news. I noticed only one phone on the table. I picked it up and dial the number to our house. But nothing happened. I tried again but to no avail. I then observed a directory on the wall – and on it is written, “DIAL 9 for OUTSIDE LINE”. So, I pressed 9 and heard another dial tone and started dialing the number. It worked! I was able to call my mother and was very happy to tell her about my first day at work.
In the bible, one can also try dialing 9 by going to Psalm 9, where David expresses his exaltations, praises and gratitude to all the good things given to him by the Lord. Start talking to the Lord:
I will give thanks to the LORD with my whole heart; I will tell of all thy wonderful deeds (v.1)
I will be glad and exult in thee, I will sing praise to thy name, O Most High (v.2)
For thou hast maintained my just cause; thou hast sat on the throne giving righteous judgment (v.4)
Be gracious to me, O LORD! Behold what I suffer from those who hate me (v.13)
For the needy shall not always be forgotten, and the hope of the poor shall not perish for ever (v.18)
Oh Lord Jesus, I reconnect with You. I believe You are God in the flesh, the Savior of the world. I believe You died for my sins and rose from the dead. I have been directing my own life, but now I surrender my life to You. I ask you to forgive me of my sin and be my Lord. Please change my heart. I choose to follow You. I want to be baptized, and receive your Holy Spirit. I want to be part of Your plan. Amen +
Hello, Jesus!
Sing praises to the LORD, who dwells in Zion! Tell among the peoples his deeds!
--------------------------------------------------------
It was my first day at work. I was really very excited to call my parents to tell them that I was already accepted as a cadet engineer. Before I left the house that day, I asked them to pray for me that I be accepted for the position, whatever it is.
When accepted for the job, it’s my turn to advise them about the good news. I noticed only one phone on the table. I picked it up and dial the number to our house. But nothing happened. I tried again but to no avail. I then observed a directory on the wall – and on it is written, “DIAL 9 for OUTSIDE LINE”. So, I pressed 9 and heard another dial tone and started dialing the number. It worked! I was able to call my mother and was very happy to tell her about my first day at work.
In the bible, one can also try dialing 9 by going to Psalm 9, where David expresses his exaltations, praises and gratitude to all the good things given to him by the Lord. Start talking to the Lord:
I will give thanks to the LORD with my whole heart; I will tell of all thy wonderful deeds (v.1)
I will be glad and exult in thee, I will sing praise to thy name, O Most High (v.2)
For thou hast maintained my just cause; thou hast sat on the throne giving righteous judgment (v.4)
Be gracious to me, O LORD! Behold what I suffer from those who hate me (v.13)
For the needy shall not always be forgotten, and the hope of the poor shall not perish for ever (v.18)
Oh Lord Jesus, I reconnect with You. I believe You are God in the flesh, the Savior of the world. I believe You died for my sins and rose from the dead. I have been directing my own life, but now I surrender my life to You. I ask you to forgive me of my sin and be my Lord. Please change my heart. I choose to follow You. I want to be baptized, and receive your Holy Spirit. I want to be part of Your plan. Amen +
Hello, Jesus!
Sunday, December 26, 2010
LEFTOVERS (12-26-10)
John 6:12
"Collect the pieces that are left over so that nothing is lost."
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After all the drinking, eating and merry-making, all that is left would be leftovers. It has always been the case through these years – we would cook and prepare so much food that we cannot really consume them all.
In all, it gives us full satisfaction seeing bountiful blessings for the season and the coming new year.
In the bible, one of the most famous miracle story is the feeding of five-thousand. It was the end of the day, and people are hungry. It was getting dark, and maybe, children are crying and people are asking for food. Worse, the disciples doesn’t even know what to do. And Jesus, being a good host, “was moved with compassion for them”. “You give them something to eat”, He said. And something to eat, they found – five loaves of bread and two fish. Jesus did not panicked – in fact, He never panics!
He blessed the bread and the fish, and was able to feed the five-thousand.
And there were even leftovers! Jesus was showing us that not only does He solve our problems, He does it with more abundance than we could ask for or even imagine.
Almighty Father, I have been blessed with material things, as well as the blessing of having the Gospel of salvation. Yet, I still feel little desire to provide those same blessings to others. We are stewards of what You have given us and we have a responsibility to share with others the same thing that You have shared with us.
Oh Lord, feed us with Your words and love. You will provide for us, forever. Our job is to have faith that You will; to trust in You; and to pray without ceasing so we may live in Your love.
“Another year, another Christmas
May the memories still linger in our mind
As constant reminders of how the Lord loves us
As yesterday, today and for years to come.”
Giving is the only proof that you have overcome greed.
"Collect the pieces that are left over so that nothing is lost."
-------------------------------------------------------------
After all the drinking, eating and merry-making, all that is left would be leftovers. It has always been the case through these years – we would cook and prepare so much food that we cannot really consume them all.
In all, it gives us full satisfaction seeing bountiful blessings for the season and the coming new year.
In the bible, one of the most famous miracle story is the feeding of five-thousand. It was the end of the day, and people are hungry. It was getting dark, and maybe, children are crying and people are asking for food. Worse, the disciples doesn’t even know what to do. And Jesus, being a good host, “was moved with compassion for them”. “You give them something to eat”, He said. And something to eat, they found – five loaves of bread and two fish. Jesus did not panicked – in fact, He never panics!
He blessed the bread and the fish, and was able to feed the five-thousand.
And there were even leftovers! Jesus was showing us that not only does He solve our problems, He does it with more abundance than we could ask for or even imagine.
Almighty Father, I have been blessed with material things, as well as the blessing of having the Gospel of salvation. Yet, I still feel little desire to provide those same blessings to others. We are stewards of what You have given us and we have a responsibility to share with others the same thing that You have shared with us.
Oh Lord, feed us with Your words and love. You will provide for us, forever. Our job is to have faith that You will; to trust in You; and to pray without ceasing so we may live in Your love.
“Another year, another Christmas
May the memories still linger in our mind
As constant reminders of how the Lord loves us
As yesterday, today and for years to come.”
Giving is the only proof that you have overcome greed.
Saturday, December 25, 2010
GOOD NEWS, GREAT JOY (12-25-10)
Christmas Day
John 1:14
And the Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us…
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MERRY CHRISTMAS, EVERYONE AND ALL!!!
Let me share with you this inspirational thought, titled the “Decalogue of Christmas.”
“If you are sad, be glad! Christmas is Joy.
“If you have enemies, reconcile with them! Christmas is Peace.
“If you have friends, look for them! Christmas is Encounter.
“If there are poor people around you, help them! Christmas is Gift.
“If you have pride, bury it! Christmas is Humility.
“If you have obligations, fulfill them! Christmas is Justice.
“If you have sins, be converted! Christmas is Grace.
“If you are in darkness, light your lamp! Christmas is Light.
“If you have errors, reflect! Christmas is Truth.
“If you have hatred, forget it! Christmas is LOVE.”
Speak from your heart. Thank Him. Praise Him. Glorify Him. I encourage you to think about what Jesus means to you and your family.
Heavenly Father, thank you for sending Your Son Jesus to earth. We not only celebrate His birth in the manger, but also the reason for His coming – His death on the cross.
Father, I thank you for my family. Life is not always easy for us, but we know that You are always with us. As Your Word says, You will never leave us nor forsake us. Thank you for the love that holds us together and for always meeting our needs. We love You and want our time of celebration to be memorable today. Amen +
Today is born our Savior, Christ the Lord.
John 1:14
And the Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us…
--------------------------------------------------------------
MERRY CHRISTMAS, EVERYONE AND ALL!!!
Let me share with you this inspirational thought, titled the “Decalogue of Christmas.”
“If you are sad, be glad! Christmas is Joy.
“If you have enemies, reconcile with them! Christmas is Peace.
“If you have friends, look for them! Christmas is Encounter.
“If there are poor people around you, help them! Christmas is Gift.
“If you have pride, bury it! Christmas is Humility.
“If you have obligations, fulfill them! Christmas is Justice.
“If you have sins, be converted! Christmas is Grace.
“If you are in darkness, light your lamp! Christmas is Light.
“If you have errors, reflect! Christmas is Truth.
“If you have hatred, forget it! Christmas is LOVE.”
Speak from your heart. Thank Him. Praise Him. Glorify Him. I encourage you to think about what Jesus means to you and your family.
Heavenly Father, thank you for sending Your Son Jesus to earth. We not only celebrate His birth in the manger, but also the reason for His coming – His death on the cross.
Father, I thank you for my family. Life is not always easy for us, but we know that You are always with us. As Your Word says, You will never leave us nor forsake us. Thank you for the love that holds us together and for always meeting our needs. We love You and want our time of celebration to be memorable today. Amen +
Today is born our Savior, Christ the Lord.
Friday, December 24, 2010
CHRISTMAS IN OUR HEARTS (12-24-10)
Tonight Is Christmas Eve
Luke 1:68-69
Blessed be the Lord, the God of Israel; for he has come to his people and set them free. He has raised up for us a mighty Savior, born of the house of His servant David.
Oh Lord Jesus, it's Your birthday! Let's praise You, the king we adore. We raise our hands, loudly sing, praise and honor to the King of Kings who is born today to be our light, our life, our way!!!
Let us rejoice in Your love with the joyous heart of a child. And then, like a jolly laughing Santa, we go out and share it with the whole world.
And as we await Your second coming, may we live our lives in total surrender to Your love, mercy and compassion.
“As Mary and Joseph search for a place
Where the Lord Jesus would be born
We prepare our hearts, straighten our ways
As we receive Jesus as our King, our Lord.”
For ever I will sing the goodness of the Lord.
Luke 1:68-69
Blessed be the Lord, the God of Israel; for he has come to his people and set them free. He has raised up for us a mighty Savior, born of the house of His servant David.
Oh Lord Jesus, it's Your birthday! Let's praise You, the king we adore. We raise our hands, loudly sing, praise and honor to the King of Kings who is born today to be our light, our life, our way!!!
Let us rejoice in Your love with the joyous heart of a child. And then, like a jolly laughing Santa, we go out and share it with the whole world.
And as we await Your second coming, may we live our lives in total surrender to Your love, mercy and compassion.
“As Mary and Joseph search for a place
Where the Lord Jesus would be born
We prepare our hearts, straighten our ways
As we receive Jesus as our King, our Lord.”
For ever I will sing the goodness of the Lord.
Thursday, December 23, 2010
GOD IS WITH US (12-23-10)
Matthew 1:23
"God is with us."
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When was the last time you said “no” to someone asking for help or a favor? Maybe, when your wife asking you to help in cooking breakfast; or when your daughter asking you to help her in her homework; or your mother requesting you to come over for a dinner; or maybe, God whispering in your ears asking you to repent and stop your addictions.
Or, maybe, when an angel came to you, telling you that you will bear the Son of God. Imagine the very dire consequence if Mary had not accepted the proposal from God. Or Joseph running away after knowing that his fiancée is pregnant and the father is not him!
Most people agree that if someone says no and they have a good reason, that makes the “no” more acceptable. So, if you explain your reasons, people will often accept that you need to say no. But for Mary and Joseph, there is really no point in saying “No”.
They showed what the ultimate obedience was. And the rest, as they say, was history. Jesus was born, suffered, died, resurrected, ascended to Heaven – all for our salvation; as we await for His second coming.
Let us pray, as Christmas draws closer for the faith that opens our lives to the spirit of God +
Almighty Father, all-powerful God, Your eternal Word took flesh on our earth when the Virgin Mary placed her life at the service of Your plan. Lift our minds in watchful hope to hear the voice which announces His glory
and open our minds to receive the Spirit Who prepares us for His coming.
We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen +
“OH EMMANUEL, God is with us,
Our King and Lawgiver,
Come save us, O Lord our God!”
Let the Lord enter; He is King of glory.
"God is with us."
------------------------------------------------------------
When was the last time you said “no” to someone asking for help or a favor? Maybe, when your wife asking you to help in cooking breakfast; or when your daughter asking you to help her in her homework; or your mother requesting you to come over for a dinner; or maybe, God whispering in your ears asking you to repent and stop your addictions.
Or, maybe, when an angel came to you, telling you that you will bear the Son of God. Imagine the very dire consequence if Mary had not accepted the proposal from God. Or Joseph running away after knowing that his fiancée is pregnant and the father is not him!
Most people agree that if someone says no and they have a good reason, that makes the “no” more acceptable. So, if you explain your reasons, people will often accept that you need to say no. But for Mary and Joseph, there is really no point in saying “No”.
They showed what the ultimate obedience was. And the rest, as they say, was history. Jesus was born, suffered, died, resurrected, ascended to Heaven – all for our salvation; as we await for His second coming.
Let us pray, as Christmas draws closer for the faith that opens our lives to the spirit of God +
Almighty Father, all-powerful God, Your eternal Word took flesh on our earth when the Virgin Mary placed her life at the service of Your plan. Lift our minds in watchful hope to hear the voice which announces His glory
and open our minds to receive the Spirit Who prepares us for His coming.
We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen +
“OH EMMANUEL, God is with us,
Our King and Lawgiver,
Come save us, O Lord our God!”
Let the Lord enter; He is King of glory.
Wednesday, December 22, 2010
GREAT THINGS (12-22-10)
Luke 1:49
…the Almighty has done great things for me, and holy is His Name.
------------------------------------------------------
In our life, we tend to expect more from someone or something good based on first impressions.
We would befriend fair-complexioned person because he would be rich.
Men would be better managers than ladies.
Marry a handsome guy or a lovely woman.
In the end, when our choice fails to meet our expectations, we become disappointed, disgusted, with that person or thing. But in reality, we become frustrated with ourselves.
Almighty Father, teach me to be contented for all the great things you have done for me.
We are all your lowly servant, and we should all rejoice for just a mere mention of your name.
Teach me to appreciate everything and everyone that You have given and provided me. Moreover, if anything does not go well – based on how I look at it, and not based on what You want – teach me to trust in You, for You are a faithful God.
You have done so much great things for us, Oh Lord. May we always recognize that as we await the celebration of the birth of Your Son.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, our trust is in You, forever. Grant us the patience and the ability to accept the consequences of our choices. May we forever be grateful for all the blessings that You have given us. May we see true beauty in everything we have and everyone we love, for they are part of the plan You have laid out for each of us.
My heart exults in the Lord, my Savior.
…the Almighty has done great things for me, and holy is His Name.
------------------------------------------------------
In our life, we tend to expect more from someone or something good based on first impressions.
We would befriend fair-complexioned person because he would be rich.
Men would be better managers than ladies.
Marry a handsome guy or a lovely woman.
In the end, when our choice fails to meet our expectations, we become disappointed, disgusted, with that person or thing. But in reality, we become frustrated with ourselves.
Almighty Father, teach me to be contented for all the great things you have done for me.
We are all your lowly servant, and we should all rejoice for just a mere mention of your name.
Teach me to appreciate everything and everyone that You have given and provided me. Moreover, if anything does not go well – based on how I look at it, and not based on what You want – teach me to trust in You, for You are a faithful God.
You have done so much great things for us, Oh Lord. May we always recognize that as we await the celebration of the birth of Your Son.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, our trust is in You, forever. Grant us the patience and the ability to accept the consequences of our choices. May we forever be grateful for all the blessings that You have given us. May we see true beauty in everything we have and everyone we love, for they are part of the plan You have laid out for each of us.
My heart exults in the Lord, my Savior.
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
SANTA CLAUS (12-21-10)
Mark 10:15
Truly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a child shall not enter it.
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In these days of commercialism, every holiday celebration is punctuated by material gift-giving, along with animated symbols – Easter Bunnies, Valentine Cupid, Halloween Pumpkin and of course, Christmas Santa Claus. And like every children in the world, I believed in Santa Claus.
And, I still do today – at least not on the person in red suit, but on the virtues he exemplifies – sharing, gift-giving, and love of children.
The story of St. Nicholas offers a possible way of dealing with the "Santa Claus" problem, to parents who do not want to lie to their children, even in fun, but do not want to say simply: "Bah, humbug! There is no such thing as Santa. Forget about him."
Nicholas was a native of the western part of what is now Asiatic Turkey. He became Bishop of Myra in the fourth century, and there are many stories of his love for God and for his neighbor.
Nicholas became a symbol of anonymous gift-giving. Hence, if we give a gift to someone today without saying whom it is from, it can be called "a present from Saint Nicholas (or Santa Claus)."
In this season of love and giving, may we not forget to share our hearts with others. Only then can we really feel the true meaning of Christmas.
Let us pray +
Almighty God, who in your love gave to your servant Nicholas of Myra a perpetual name for deeds of kindness on land and sea: Grant, we pray, that your Church may never cease to work for the happiness of children, the safety of sailors, the relief of the poor, and the help of those tossed by tempests of doubt or grief; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen +
Santa Claus is coming to town.
Truly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a child shall not enter it.
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In these days of commercialism, every holiday celebration is punctuated by material gift-giving, along with animated symbols – Easter Bunnies, Valentine Cupid, Halloween Pumpkin and of course, Christmas Santa Claus. And like every children in the world, I believed in Santa Claus.
And, I still do today – at least not on the person in red suit, but on the virtues he exemplifies – sharing, gift-giving, and love of children.
The story of St. Nicholas offers a possible way of dealing with the "Santa Claus" problem, to parents who do not want to lie to their children, even in fun, but do not want to say simply: "Bah, humbug! There is no such thing as Santa. Forget about him."
Nicholas was a native of the western part of what is now Asiatic Turkey. He became Bishop of Myra in the fourth century, and there are many stories of his love for God and for his neighbor.
Nicholas became a symbol of anonymous gift-giving. Hence, if we give a gift to someone today without saying whom it is from, it can be called "a present from Saint Nicholas (or Santa Claus)."
In this season of love and giving, may we not forget to share our hearts with others. Only then can we really feel the true meaning of Christmas.
Let us pray +
Almighty God, who in your love gave to your servant Nicholas of Myra a perpetual name for deeds of kindness on land and sea: Grant, we pray, that your Church may never cease to work for the happiness of children, the safety of sailors, the relief of the poor, and the help of those tossed by tempests of doubt or grief; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen +
Santa Claus is coming to town.
Monday, December 20, 2010
REFINEMENT (12-20-10)
Malachi 3:3
Refining them like gold or like silver that they may offer due sacrifice to the LORD.
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In refining silver, the silversmith needs to hold the silver in the middle of the fire where the flames were hottest as to burn away all the impurities. He had to sit there in front of the fire the whole time the silver was being refined. And not only had to sit there holding the silver, but he had to keep his eyes on the silver the entire time it was in the fire. If the silver was left a moment too long in the flames, it would be destroyed.
Maybe, you would then ask the silversmith, “How do you know when the silver is fully refined?” His answer would be, “Oh, that’s easy— when I see my image in it.”
If today you are feeling the heat of the fire, remember that God has His eye on you and will keep watching you until He sees His image in you.
Almighty Father, keep my heart pure for You. You have created me in Your likeness and image. You are the absolute example of purity, and to be with You, I must also be pure. And yet, You still love and take care of me, in spite of being impure and disgusting. Always keep me under the warmth of Your love – molding me, turning me around, heating me up – under Your watchful and caring eyes, until You see clearly Your own image in me.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, search our heart and cleanse us of all that would keep You from being our “first love” always and in all things. For You are everything to us, for You alone can fulfill our deepest needs. We seek Your mercy, we seek Your compassion as we glorify and praise You forever and ever.
Lift up your heads and see; your redemption is near at hand.
Refining them like gold or like silver that they may offer due sacrifice to the LORD.
-----------------------------------------------------
In refining silver, the silversmith needs to hold the silver in the middle of the fire where the flames were hottest as to burn away all the impurities. He had to sit there in front of the fire the whole time the silver was being refined. And not only had to sit there holding the silver, but he had to keep his eyes on the silver the entire time it was in the fire. If the silver was left a moment too long in the flames, it would be destroyed.
Maybe, you would then ask the silversmith, “How do you know when the silver is fully refined?” His answer would be, “Oh, that’s easy— when I see my image in it.”
If today you are feeling the heat of the fire, remember that God has His eye on you and will keep watching you until He sees His image in you.
Almighty Father, keep my heart pure for You. You have created me in Your likeness and image. You are the absolute example of purity, and to be with You, I must also be pure. And yet, You still love and take care of me, in spite of being impure and disgusting. Always keep me under the warmth of Your love – molding me, turning me around, heating me up – under Your watchful and caring eyes, until You see clearly Your own image in me.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, search our heart and cleanse us of all that would keep You from being our “first love” always and in all things. For You are everything to us, for You alone can fulfill our deepest needs. We seek Your mercy, we seek Your compassion as we glorify and praise You forever and ever.
Lift up your heads and see; your redemption is near at hand.
Saturday, December 18, 2010
RESTORED (12-19-10)
Fourth Sunday of Advent
Matthew 1:23
Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall name him Emmanuel, which means “God is with us.”
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In elementary and high school days, my classmates would call me Roberto, my real name. But in college, I changed it to how my parents call me since birth, that is Jun. And I would also be called various names and aliases like Manacsa (military training), Labing (by my wife), Papa (by my kids). But all of these refer to one person, and that is me.
But there is no one in history that has been given more names or titles than Jesus Christ. Throughout the pages of Holy Scripture over 100 names and titles are given to Jesus. However, there is no name more significant than “Emmanuel”. This name, which Matthew refers to in his Gospel (Matthew 1:23), was first given to Jesus by the prophet Isaiah 700 years before His birth (Isaiah 7:14). And this very special Christmas name, as Matthew tells us, means "God with us." Jesus Christ is Emmanuel, for “God is with us”.
God sent Him to be with us because only He can undo what we have done. Only the One who created us in the first place can restore us again. Only He can give their lives the meaning and completeness they were supposed to have. Only "God with us" can rescue us from the oblivion that we are heading toward.
Emmanuel. In this one name, everything humankind needs and the entire plan of God's salvation is subsumed.
How blessed we are that Jesus Christ became Emmanuel and dwelt among us to be our Savior, King, Lord and God.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, so great was Your love for us, Your fallen creation, that You let Your glory to come here. And through His perfect life and death on the cross He broke down the wall of separation that our sin had built and reconciled us to Himself. Through Jesus Christ, Emmanuel, our sins are forgiven and we have fellowship with You, our Creator again. Amen +
Let the Lord enter; he is king of glory.
Matthew 1:23
Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall name him Emmanuel, which means “God is with us.”
-------------------------------------------------------------
In elementary and high school days, my classmates would call me Roberto, my real name. But in college, I changed it to how my parents call me since birth, that is Jun. And I would also be called various names and aliases like Manacsa (military training), Labing (by my wife), Papa (by my kids). But all of these refer to one person, and that is me.
But there is no one in history that has been given more names or titles than Jesus Christ. Throughout the pages of Holy Scripture over 100 names and titles are given to Jesus. However, there is no name more significant than “Emmanuel”. This name, which Matthew refers to in his Gospel (Matthew 1:23), was first given to Jesus by the prophet Isaiah 700 years before His birth (Isaiah 7:14). And this very special Christmas name, as Matthew tells us, means "God with us." Jesus Christ is Emmanuel, for “God is with us”.
God sent Him to be with us because only He can undo what we have done. Only the One who created us in the first place can restore us again. Only He can give their lives the meaning and completeness they were supposed to have. Only "God with us" can rescue us from the oblivion that we are heading toward.
Emmanuel. In this one name, everything humankind needs and the entire plan of God's salvation is subsumed.
How blessed we are that Jesus Christ became Emmanuel and dwelt among us to be our Savior, King, Lord and God.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, so great was Your love for us, Your fallen creation, that You let Your glory to come here. And through His perfect life and death on the cross He broke down the wall of separation that our sin had built and reconciled us to Himself. Through Jesus Christ, Emmanuel, our sins are forgiven and we have fellowship with You, our Creator again. Amen +
Let the Lord enter; he is king of glory.
LET IT BE DONE (12-18-10)
Luke 1:38
“Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord. May it be done to me according to Your word.”
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THE LORD IS WITH YOU.
Many times in the Old Testament the words “the Lord is with you” signaled that someone was being called to a daunting task. In fact, these words often accompanied an invitation from God to play a crucial role in his plan of salvation. At the same time, these words offered assurance that they would not face these challenges alone. Some of Israel’s greatest leaders—men like Isaac, Jacob, Joshua, Gideon and David—were told that God would be with them when they were commissioned to serve his people.
FAVOR WITH GOD
Like the phrase “The Lord is with you,” the notion of finding “favor with God” also would bring to mind Old Testament covenant mediators in God’s salvation plan. Noah was the first person in the Bible described as finding favor with God (see Genesis 6:8). God saved him and his family from the flood and gave him a covenant to be the head of a renewed human family. The next person to find favor with God was Abraham (see Genesis 18:2-3). God made a covenant with him, calling on his family to be the instrument through which he would bring blessing to all the nations of the world.
Like these great covenant mediators of the Old Testament, Mary has found favor with God for God is with her. Walking in the footsteps of Noah, Abraham, Moses and David, Mary now is called to serve as an important cooperator in the divine plan to bring salvation to all the nations.
And we are called in the same token.
Are you willing to be His “handmaid”?
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, You have revealed the beauty of your power by exalting the lowly virgin of Nazareth and making her the mother of our Savior. Her total obedience brought Jesus to the waiting , and may we, on the same token, called to be your handmaid for the salvation of many. Amen +
Let the Lord enter; He is the King of glory.
“Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord. May it be done to me according to Your word.”
------------------------------------------------------------
THE LORD IS WITH YOU.
Many times in the Old Testament the words “the Lord is with you” signaled that someone was being called to a daunting task. In fact, these words often accompanied an invitation from God to play a crucial role in his plan of salvation. At the same time, these words offered assurance that they would not face these challenges alone. Some of Israel’s greatest leaders—men like Isaac, Jacob, Joshua, Gideon and David—were told that God would be with them when they were commissioned to serve his people.
FAVOR WITH GOD
Like the phrase “The Lord is with you,” the notion of finding “favor with God” also would bring to mind Old Testament covenant mediators in God’s salvation plan. Noah was the first person in the Bible described as finding favor with God (see Genesis 6:8). God saved him and his family from the flood and gave him a covenant to be the head of a renewed human family. The next person to find favor with God was Abraham (see Genesis 18:2-3). God made a covenant with him, calling on his family to be the instrument through which he would bring blessing to all the nations of the world.
Like these great covenant mediators of the Old Testament, Mary has found favor with God for God is with her. Walking in the footsteps of Noah, Abraham, Moses and David, Mary now is called to serve as an important cooperator in the divine plan to bring salvation to all the nations.
And we are called in the same token.
Are you willing to be His “handmaid”?
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, You have revealed the beauty of your power by exalting the lowly virgin of Nazareth and making her the mother of our Savior. Her total obedience brought Jesus to the waiting , and may we, on the same token, called to be your handmaid for the salvation of many. Amen +
Let the Lord enter; He is the King of glory.
Friday, December 17, 2010
JOSEPH AND MARY (12-17-10)
Matthew 1:16
Jacob the father of Joseph, the husband of Mary. Of her was born Jesus who is called the Christ.
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God had promised long before Abraham that a Redeemer would come. When Abraham was called, he was given the promise that “through his seed” all of the world would be blessed. Later on, one of Abraham's descendants, David, was given the same promise.
Had Christ not redeemed us from the power of the devil, the work of redemption would not be perfect. As what the Scripture says, that just for this purpose Christ came into the world, to destroy the works of the devil.
And in doing so, God had used two obedient individual – Joseph and Mary.
Imagine the gossip, the rumors, the pointing fingers, the whispers behind the back, the judgment and rejection that faced this young couple, on the verge of beginning their life together.
The Scriptures tell us that Joseph was a righteous man. He was a man of character, integrity, and the highest of moral standards.
The love and faith was also for Mary. Joseph loved Mary enough to stay with her despite her being pregnant. He loved her enough to raise God’s Son as his very own. He had faith in her and in God that what the angel had predicted would indeed come true.
The devil has no more claim upon us; he is no longer our master, but the Lord Jesus is our kind and merciful King, who has established His throne in our hearts. And in our dear Lord and Savior we have everything to make our happiness complete. Thanks to the obedience of Joseph and Mary.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, Who loved us so much that You sent Your Son, born of a virgin who was engaged to a righteous man, we are so grateful for Your unselfish act of creation. We ask that You would help us to live as You call us to live. In Jesus’ precious name we pray, Amen +
Justice shall flourish in his time, and fullness of peace for ever.
Jacob the father of Joseph, the husband of Mary. Of her was born Jesus who is called the Christ.
----------------------------------------------------------------
God had promised long before Abraham that a Redeemer would come. When Abraham was called, he was given the promise that “through his seed” all of the world would be blessed. Later on, one of Abraham's descendants, David, was given the same promise.
Had Christ not redeemed us from the power of the devil, the work of redemption would not be perfect. As what the Scripture says, that just for this purpose Christ came into the world, to destroy the works of the devil.
And in doing so, God had used two obedient individual – Joseph and Mary.
Imagine the gossip, the rumors, the pointing fingers, the whispers behind the back, the judgment and rejection that faced this young couple, on the verge of beginning their life together.
The Scriptures tell us that Joseph was a righteous man. He was a man of character, integrity, and the highest of moral standards.
The love and faith was also for Mary. Joseph loved Mary enough to stay with her despite her being pregnant. He loved her enough to raise God’s Son as his very own. He had faith in her and in God that what the angel had predicted would indeed come true.
The devil has no more claim upon us; he is no longer our master, but the Lord Jesus is our kind and merciful King, who has established His throne in our hearts. And in our dear Lord and Savior we have everything to make our happiness complete. Thanks to the obedience of Joseph and Mary.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, Who loved us so much that You sent Your Son, born of a virgin who was engaged to a righteous man, we are so grateful for Your unselfish act of creation. We ask that You would help us to live as You call us to live. In Jesus’ precious name we pray, Amen +
Justice shall flourish in his time, and fullness of peace for ever.
Thursday, December 16, 2010
REMEMBER ME (12-16-10)
Psalm 143:5
I remember the days of old; I meditate on all Thy works; I muse on the work of Thy hands.
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Most of you must have seen the movie, “Bourne Ultimatum”. In the movie, the main character suffered severe amnesia and had to work against time and assassins who want him dead. He takes off on a search to find out who he is and why he is being hunted.
He then came to realize that he himself is a trained assassin. He came to understand this when he finally reached the place where he was first “converted”. In fact, he volunteered himself to the job! As soon as he realized this, he knew that he only has himself to blame for what has happened in his life.
In one instance in our life, we have come to know God or have been called to join His family. However, due to life problems, busyness at work, or wordly attachments, we experienced amnesia of the heart and forgotten Him. We struggled to come out and even blame Him for all those bad things happening to us.
Yet, if we only come back to Him and re-accept Him as our Lord and Savior, we would realize that we only have ourselves to blame.
Almighty Father, help me remember Your faithfulness throughout my life. Help me see how You have loved me, redeemed me, forgiven me, and given me new and eternal life. Help me realize how You have brought me through past struggles, provided for my needs, woke me up this morning, and how You continue to cover me with Your love.
Let us pray +
Oh Lord, bless us—each and all—to always remember You with love, to direct our hearts and lives in fulfilling of Your holy will, that You—the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit—would make our hearts and spirit Your abode, now and always. Amen +
Oh Lord, remember me when You come in Your kingdom.
I remember the days of old; I meditate on all Thy works; I muse on the work of Thy hands.
--------------------------------------------------------------
Most of you must have seen the movie, “Bourne Ultimatum”. In the movie, the main character suffered severe amnesia and had to work against time and assassins who want him dead. He takes off on a search to find out who he is and why he is being hunted.
He then came to realize that he himself is a trained assassin. He came to understand this when he finally reached the place where he was first “converted”. In fact, he volunteered himself to the job! As soon as he realized this, he knew that he only has himself to blame for what has happened in his life.
In one instance in our life, we have come to know God or have been called to join His family. However, due to life problems, busyness at work, or wordly attachments, we experienced amnesia of the heart and forgotten Him. We struggled to come out and even blame Him for all those bad things happening to us.
Yet, if we only come back to Him and re-accept Him as our Lord and Savior, we would realize that we only have ourselves to blame.
Almighty Father, help me remember Your faithfulness throughout my life. Help me see how You have loved me, redeemed me, forgiven me, and given me new and eternal life. Help me realize how You have brought me through past struggles, provided for my needs, woke me up this morning, and how You continue to cover me with Your love.
Let us pray +
Oh Lord, bless us—each and all—to always remember You with love, to direct our hearts and lives in fulfilling of Your holy will, that You—the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit—would make our hearts and spirit Your abode, now and always. Amen +
Oh Lord, remember me when You come in Your kingdom.
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
KNOW HIM FULLY (12-15-10)
Matthew 21:31
Amen, I say to you, tax collectors and prostitutes are entering the Kingdom of God before you.
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Attending Sunday mass service. Reading the Bible. Giving alms. Penance. Communion. Fasting and abstinence.
And yet, entering heaven is not just these things. It is opening our hearts to Him and responding to His every words and following His every will. The tax collectors and prostitutes during His time may have lived a life disobedient to God in the past but when they heard the preaching of Jesus they converted. It is because the tax collectors and sinners had reached rock bottom and realized that the lives they were living were empty and meaningless.
In Jesus they found life as it was meant to be. Jesus offered hope to the tax collectors and sinners, hope they never before had.
But for me, I may have heard the preaching of Jesus and knew the Scriptures even before them, but my heart may have remained closed and is not responding to God.
We must now open my heart FULLY to God. And then share this joy with others so they may also fully understand the gift of salvation, the gift of heaven. Only then would I be entitled to it, joining the sinners, like me, who came to know Jesus fully in my life.
Do you only know about Jesus or do you know Jesus in your heart? Have you met Him? If not, tell him you want to meet Him – before it’s too late!
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, please be patient with me as your Spirit seeks to do his work of transformation in my life. I do want to live to honor you and more closely reflect the character and grace of Jesus. Please give me wisdom to know your will, courage to stay away from sin, and a willing heart to seek after you. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen +
The Lord hears the cry of the poor.
Amen, I say to you, tax collectors and prostitutes are entering the Kingdom of God before you.
-----------------------------------------------------------
Attending Sunday mass service. Reading the Bible. Giving alms. Penance. Communion. Fasting and abstinence.
And yet, entering heaven is not just these things. It is opening our hearts to Him and responding to His every words and following His every will. The tax collectors and prostitutes during His time may have lived a life disobedient to God in the past but when they heard the preaching of Jesus they converted. It is because the tax collectors and sinners had reached rock bottom and realized that the lives they were living were empty and meaningless.
In Jesus they found life as it was meant to be. Jesus offered hope to the tax collectors and sinners, hope they never before had.
But for me, I may have heard the preaching of Jesus and knew the Scriptures even before them, but my heart may have remained closed and is not responding to God.
We must now open my heart FULLY to God. And then share this joy with others so they may also fully understand the gift of salvation, the gift of heaven. Only then would I be entitled to it, joining the sinners, like me, who came to know Jesus fully in my life.
Do you only know about Jesus or do you know Jesus in your heart? Have you met Him? If not, tell him you want to meet Him – before it’s too late!
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, please be patient with me as your Spirit seeks to do his work of transformation in my life. I do want to live to honor you and more closely reflect the character and grace of Jesus. Please give me wisdom to know your will, courage to stay away from sin, and a willing heart to seek after you. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen +
The Lord hears the cry of the poor.
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
ST. FRANCIS XAVIER (12-14-10)
1 John 4:19
We love, because he first loved us.
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I may have given my son a gift last week, but I do expect that he studies well. I may have said “I love you” to my wife this morning, but I expect that she loves me back. I may have donated some money to charity, and yet I expect that God will return back the favor a hundred times.
When was the last time I gave something without expecting something in return?
When was the last time I have given something, all out of love, because I believe that is the right thing to do?
St. Francis Xavier was a pioneering Roman Catholic Christian missionary and co-founder of the Society of Jesus (Jesuit Order). The Roman Catholic Church considers him to have converted more people to Christianity than anyone since St. Paul having devoted much of his life to missions in foreign countries – Indonesia, India, Malacca, Japan and South China.
In his prayer, we should love God, not because of anything else (i.e., we want to go to heaven, have eternal life). We should love and praise God, simply because He is our Creator, our Lord and our eternal King. God should expect more from us, rather than we expecting anything from Him.
My God, I love thee; not because I hope for heaven thereby,
nor yet because who love thee not are lost eternally.
Thou, O my Jesus, thou didst me upon the cross embrace;
for me didst bear the nails and spear, and manifold disgrace.
Then why, O blessed Jesus Christ should I not love thee well?
not for the hope of winning heaven, or of escaping hell.
not with the hope of gaining aught, nor seeking a reward,
but as thyself has lovèd me, O ever-loving Lord!
Even so I love thee, and will love and in thy praise will sing,
solely because thou art my God, and my eternal king.
Praise the Lord, for He is our love, forever!
We love, because he first loved us.
---------------------------------------------------------------
I may have given my son a gift last week, but I do expect that he studies well. I may have said “I love you” to my wife this morning, but I expect that she loves me back. I may have donated some money to charity, and yet I expect that God will return back the favor a hundred times.
When was the last time I gave something without expecting something in return?
When was the last time I have given something, all out of love, because I believe that is the right thing to do?
St. Francis Xavier was a pioneering Roman Catholic Christian missionary and co-founder of the Society of Jesus (Jesuit Order). The Roman Catholic Church considers him to have converted more people to Christianity than anyone since St. Paul having devoted much of his life to missions in foreign countries – Indonesia, India, Malacca, Japan and South China.
In his prayer, we should love God, not because of anything else (i.e., we want to go to heaven, have eternal life). We should love and praise God, simply because He is our Creator, our Lord and our eternal King. God should expect more from us, rather than we expecting anything from Him.
My God, I love thee; not because I hope for heaven thereby,
nor yet because who love thee not are lost eternally.
Thou, O my Jesus, thou didst me upon the cross embrace;
for me didst bear the nails and spear, and manifold disgrace.
Then why, O blessed Jesus Christ should I not love thee well?
not for the hope of winning heaven, or of escaping hell.
not with the hope of gaining aught, nor seeking a reward,
but as thyself has lovèd me, O ever-loving Lord!
Even so I love thee, and will love and in thy praise will sing,
solely because thou art my God, and my eternal king.
Praise the Lord, for He is our love, forever!
Monday, December 13, 2010
CONNECT WITH HIM (12-13-10)
Psalms 80:19
Then we will no more withdraw from You; give us new life, and we will call upon Your name.
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In my childhood days, I remember watching Jesus of Nazareth on TV. Then, as I grew up, I watched other movies, read some books and saw some plays (like the Cenaculo during the Holy Week) about Jesus. The last one I saw was the “The Passion of the Christ”. No figure in history has been so widely portrayed in film, in drama, in story, in books, in narrative as Jesus.
But hearing about him is not enough.
There must be an inner opening of the eyes and the ears of the soul, so that we begin to understand the implications of his life. That is what our Lord is talking about.
We need to have our ears opened so that the full meaning of what he did and said becomes evident to us, and we personally see that it involves us. He gave us a new life, by sacrificing His life on the cross. True worship is the desire to merge with God, for him to possess us and we to possess him, calling out to His name constantly and without ceasing.
Learn how to share your work, your family life, your personal life with Jesus, to operate in dependence upon his wisdom, grace and forgiveness of failure.
Learn to bring all of your life constantly back into connection with Him.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, You give us all the gift of faith. You give us all the gift of life. Enable and empower us to see you in all we touch, hear, say, and do. May we not take the obvious for granted but, through you, see all of our lives as sacred and a gift from you. Through our Savior, in the Holy Spirit, we pray, one God, forever and ever. Amen +
Lord, make us turn to You; let us see Your face and we shall be saved.
Then we will no more withdraw from You; give us new life, and we will call upon Your name.
------------------------------------------------------
In my childhood days, I remember watching Jesus of Nazareth on TV. Then, as I grew up, I watched other movies, read some books and saw some plays (like the Cenaculo during the Holy Week) about Jesus. The last one I saw was the “The Passion of the Christ”. No figure in history has been so widely portrayed in film, in drama, in story, in books, in narrative as Jesus.
But hearing about him is not enough.
There must be an inner opening of the eyes and the ears of the soul, so that we begin to understand the implications of his life. That is what our Lord is talking about.
We need to have our ears opened so that the full meaning of what he did and said becomes evident to us, and we personally see that it involves us. He gave us a new life, by sacrificing His life on the cross. True worship is the desire to merge with God, for him to possess us and we to possess him, calling out to His name constantly and without ceasing.
Learn how to share your work, your family life, your personal life with Jesus, to operate in dependence upon his wisdom, grace and forgiveness of failure.
Learn to bring all of your life constantly back into connection with Him.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, You give us all the gift of faith. You give us all the gift of life. Enable and empower us to see you in all we touch, hear, say, and do. May we not take the obvious for granted but, through you, see all of our lives as sacred and a gift from you. Through our Savior, in the Holy Spirit, we pray, one God, forever and ever. Amen +
Lord, make us turn to You; let us see Your face and we shall be saved.
Sunday, December 12, 2010
RECEIVE (12-12-10)
Third Sunday of Advent
Matthew 11:10
Behold, I am sending my messenger ahead of you; he will prepare your way before you.
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Many thought he was the Messiah. But, he readily told them he is not. He did not took all the accolades for himself. For he knows that he is nothing compared to the One who will come after him.
St. John the Baptist is the greatest messenger of all times, for he heralded and prepared the way for the Lord Jesus Christ. He went through all the places around the Jordan river, preaching a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. Crowds of people came confessing their sins and he baptized them in the Jordan River.
John always spoke the truth, even when people didn't want to hear it. He fearlessly confronted King Herod with the evil things he had done. Eventually, this stand for the truth cost John his life.
The Lord Jesus is the way, the truth and the life. As the celebration of His nativity draws near, may we continuously prepare our hearts to fully accept Him as our Lord and our King.
And as we wait for His glorious second coming, may we continuously prepare ourselves, through His mercy and grace, to join Him in eternal life.
John's purpose was to prepare the people to receive and accept Jesus as their Lord and Savior.
Could you help someone to receive and accept Jesus as they see His love living fully in You? Rejoice, for the Lord has come and will come again!
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, we are Your workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which You prepared beforehand. This Christmas, may we rejoice in Your name and be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave us. Amen +
Lord, come and save us.
Matthew 11:10
Behold, I am sending my messenger ahead of you; he will prepare your way before you.
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Many thought he was the Messiah. But, he readily told them he is not. He did not took all the accolades for himself. For he knows that he is nothing compared to the One who will come after him.
St. John the Baptist is the greatest messenger of all times, for he heralded and prepared the way for the Lord Jesus Christ. He went through all the places around the Jordan river, preaching a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. Crowds of people came confessing their sins and he baptized them in the Jordan River.
John always spoke the truth, even when people didn't want to hear it. He fearlessly confronted King Herod with the evil things he had done. Eventually, this stand for the truth cost John his life.
The Lord Jesus is the way, the truth and the life. As the celebration of His nativity draws near, may we continuously prepare our hearts to fully accept Him as our Lord and our King.
And as we wait for His glorious second coming, may we continuously prepare ourselves, through His mercy and grace, to join Him in eternal life.
John's purpose was to prepare the people to receive and accept Jesus as their Lord and Savior.
Could you help someone to receive and accept Jesus as they see His love living fully in You? Rejoice, for the Lord has come and will come again!
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, we are Your workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which You prepared beforehand. This Christmas, may we rejoice in Your name and be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave us. Amen +
Lord, come and save us.
Saturday, December 11, 2010
BEYOND EXPECTATIONS (12-11-10)
Romans 8:28
We know that in everything, God works for good with those who love Him, who are called according to His purpose.
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As a child, I was taller than the average Filipino kid. At Grade 5, I am already at 5’4”. No wonder they tapped me to join the basketball league in my school. They thought that I can play really good. They were excited to see me play. In my first game, I was caught doing nothing inside “the paint” for three seconds (3-second rule) during our first ball possession. And I did it two more times before I understood what the rule is.
After the first game, my score is zero together with zero rebounds and four fouls. In the next game, I was just used sparingly, if not at all. They have high expectations… and they felt that I have failed them.
In our life, we tend to expect more from someone or something good based on first impressions. We would befriend fair-complexioned person because he would be rich. Men would be better managers than ladies. Choose Pizza Hut than Shakey’s, “dahil mas class ang dating” (because it exudes more class). Marry a handsome guy or a lovely woman. In the end, when our choice fails to meet our expectations, we become disappointed, disgusted, with that person or thing.
But in reality, this is because we become frustrated with ourselves.
Almighty Father, teach me to be contented. Teach me to appreciate everything and everyone that You have given and provided me. Moreover, if anything does not go well – based on how I look at it, and not based on what You want – teach me to trust in You, for You are a faithful God.
Let us pray +
Oh Lord, our trust is in You, forever. Grant us the patience and the ability to accept the consequences of our choices. May we forever be grateful for all the blessings that You have given us. May we see true beauty in everything we have and everyone we love, for they are part of the plan You have laid out for each of us. Amen +
“We must accept finite disappointment, but never lose infinite hope.”
- Martin Luther King, Jr.
We know that in everything, God works for good with those who love Him, who are called according to His purpose.
-----------------------------------------------------
As a child, I was taller than the average Filipino kid. At Grade 5, I am already at 5’4”. No wonder they tapped me to join the basketball league in my school. They thought that I can play really good. They were excited to see me play. In my first game, I was caught doing nothing inside “the paint” for three seconds (3-second rule) during our first ball possession. And I did it two more times before I understood what the rule is.
After the first game, my score is zero together with zero rebounds and four fouls. In the next game, I was just used sparingly, if not at all. They have high expectations… and they felt that I have failed them.
In our life, we tend to expect more from someone or something good based on first impressions. We would befriend fair-complexioned person because he would be rich. Men would be better managers than ladies. Choose Pizza Hut than Shakey’s, “dahil mas class ang dating” (because it exudes more class). Marry a handsome guy or a lovely woman. In the end, when our choice fails to meet our expectations, we become disappointed, disgusted, with that person or thing.
But in reality, this is because we become frustrated with ourselves.
Almighty Father, teach me to be contented. Teach me to appreciate everything and everyone that You have given and provided me. Moreover, if anything does not go well – based on how I look at it, and not based on what You want – teach me to trust in You, for You are a faithful God.
Let us pray +
Oh Lord, our trust is in You, forever. Grant us the patience and the ability to accept the consequences of our choices. May we forever be grateful for all the blessings that You have given us. May we see true beauty in everything we have and everyone we love, for they are part of the plan You have laid out for each of us. Amen +
“We must accept finite disappointment, but never lose infinite hope.”
- Martin Luther King, Jr.
Friday, December 10, 2010
EXAMPLE OF HUMILITY (12-10-10)
Psalms 25:9
He guides the humble to justice, He teaches the humble His way.
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I am thinking, if Jesus is born in our time, let us say just today, would he be born, or rather, still choose to be born in a manger, grow up as a carpenter’s son, live together with fishermen, tax collectors and prostitutes, ride on a donkey, wash the feet of his friends before he dies?
I was thinking - and I know the answer is a resounding “Yes!” Because, He is a humble God. And His whole life on earth was a living example of humility.
Lord Jesus has taught and loved us through examples and parables. So it is only proper that we must deal with other Christians out of humility rather than pride, for we have no excuse for responding to fellow believers in a spirit of arrogance, haughtiness, or superiority.
To be humble means to depend on God, on His grace, to keep ourselves under His guidance, like Jesus, without leaning on ourselves but uniquely on His all-powerful and merciful might. And through the power of the Holy Spirit, we must learn to bless proud, less greedy, less envious, less anger, less lust…
That is, to clean out our soul, in order to fill us with Jesus, with his humility, love, joy and peace.
The Lord Jesus Christ was no religious hypocrite. He always practiced what He preached and preached what He practiced. He was totally consistent in all of His ways. No legitimate fault could ever be found in Him.
May we, His servants today, become more and more like Him!
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, may we forever embodies humility – make the esteem effort to listen, accept others - no matter what their race, their religion, their education – or lack of it, or their station in life. And we can only show this through service, with great love, to others. May You see the humbleness in our hearts from this day forward. Amen +
Teach me Your ways, O Lord.
He guides the humble to justice, He teaches the humble His way.
-----------------------------------------------------------------
I am thinking, if Jesus is born in our time, let us say just today, would he be born, or rather, still choose to be born in a manger, grow up as a carpenter’s son, live together with fishermen, tax collectors and prostitutes, ride on a donkey, wash the feet of his friends before he dies?
I was thinking - and I know the answer is a resounding “Yes!” Because, He is a humble God. And His whole life on earth was a living example of humility.
Lord Jesus has taught and loved us through examples and parables. So it is only proper that we must deal with other Christians out of humility rather than pride, for we have no excuse for responding to fellow believers in a spirit of arrogance, haughtiness, or superiority.
To be humble means to depend on God, on His grace, to keep ourselves under His guidance, like Jesus, without leaning on ourselves but uniquely on His all-powerful and merciful might. And through the power of the Holy Spirit, we must learn to bless proud, less greedy, less envious, less anger, less lust…
That is, to clean out our soul, in order to fill us with Jesus, with his humility, love, joy and peace.
The Lord Jesus Christ was no religious hypocrite. He always practiced what He preached and preached what He practiced. He was totally consistent in all of His ways. No legitimate fault could ever be found in Him.
May we, His servants today, become more and more like Him!
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, may we forever embodies humility – make the esteem effort to listen, accept others - no matter what their race, their religion, their education – or lack of it, or their station in life. And we can only show this through service, with great love, to others. May You see the humbleness in our hearts from this day forward. Amen +
Teach me Your ways, O Lord.
Thursday, December 9, 2010
MEMORY UPGRADE (12-09-10)
Psalm 119:11
I have laid up Thy word in my heart, that I might not sin against Thee.
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In the morning, I would always hear this from a Philippine FM radio station as it’s tag line: “Kelangan Pa Bang I-Memorize ‘Yan?” (“Do We Really Need to Memorize It?”). The premise is that there are things that we should already know by heart, that we just do it as it comes – without thinking.
Since our childhood days, we have been constantly memorizing something, because that is how you can get good grades in school, especially during exams – names, formulae, places, plural nouns, important dates – and the list goes on and on.
Then, there are those that we know – or memorized – by heart: the national anthem, oath of allegiance, prayers like Our Father and Hail Mary, love songs (especially memorable ones), telephone numbers.
In our spiritual lives, we also have what we call MEMORY VERSES. A memory verse is a passage of Scripture that is memorized, repeatedly, until we came to remember it by heart.
The memorization of Scripture is considered to be a spiritual discipline. But, we do not just memorize these verses. It is important that we incorporate what we have read or memorized in our daily lives.
We should harness the power of these verses to improve our relationship with the Lord and to win others to Jesus Christ.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, Your word is living and powerful - sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. May we forever speak Your word, constantly renewing our hearts and minds.
A - All have sinned, and come short of the glory of God. Romans 3:23
B - Believe in the Lord Jesus Christ, and you will be saved. Acts 16:31
C - Children, obey your parents in the Lord: for this is right. Ephesians 6:1
I will not forget Your word, for I trust in Your word.
I have laid up Thy word in my heart, that I might not sin against Thee.
--------------------------------------------------------------
In the morning, I would always hear this from a Philippine FM radio station as it’s tag line: “Kelangan Pa Bang I-Memorize ‘Yan?” (“Do We Really Need to Memorize It?”). The premise is that there are things that we should already know by heart, that we just do it as it comes – without thinking.
Since our childhood days, we have been constantly memorizing something, because that is how you can get good grades in school, especially during exams – names, formulae, places, plural nouns, important dates – and the list goes on and on.
Then, there are those that we know – or memorized – by heart: the national anthem, oath of allegiance, prayers like Our Father and Hail Mary, love songs (especially memorable ones), telephone numbers.
In our spiritual lives, we also have what we call MEMORY VERSES. A memory verse is a passage of Scripture that is memorized, repeatedly, until we came to remember it by heart.
The memorization of Scripture is considered to be a spiritual discipline. But, we do not just memorize these verses. It is important that we incorporate what we have read or memorized in our daily lives.
We should harness the power of these verses to improve our relationship with the Lord and to win others to Jesus Christ.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, Your word is living and powerful - sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. May we forever speak Your word, constantly renewing our hearts and minds.
A - All have sinned, and come short of the glory of God. Romans 3:23
B - Believe in the Lord Jesus Christ, and you will be saved. Acts 16:31
C - Children, obey your parents in the Lord: for this is right. Ephesians 6:1
I will not forget Your word, for I trust in Your word.
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
FULL OF GRACE (12-08-10)
Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception
Luke 1:38
“Hail, full of grace! The Lord is with you.”
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The Immaculate Conception is a doctrine of the Catholic Church in regards to the Blessed Virgin Mary. An official statement of the doctrine reads, “…the blessed Virgin Mary to have been, from the first instant of her conception, by a singular grace and privilege of Almighty God…preserved free from all stain of original sin.” Essentially, the Immaculate Conception is the belief that Mary was protected from original sin.
Mary was indeed favored and full of grace. The Lord of heaven and earth had prepared and chosen her as a fertile ground into which he planted the seed of His Word. Angels still visit those who believe that grace is real and available, the favor and blessing of God. They come, bearing God’s message to men and women are humble enough to open themselves to its dynamic, sanctifying and transforming action.
Each of us is now called to become full of grace. The Lord desires to be with us, to live within us in a world that hungers for His love—a love which can be borne in us and offered through us to others. Mary shows us the way.
She heard the promise, believed, was filled with grace, and conceived the Lord who is Love incarnate. We can do likewise if we learn to pray, to listen, to hear, to respond, to say “Yes”.
In doing so we, like Mary, let us all also, in our hearts, discover that “nothing is impossible with God.”
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, who by the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary, did prepare a worthy dwelling place for Your Son, we beseech You that, as by the foreseen death of this, Your Son, You did preserve Her from all stain, so too You would permit us, purified through Her intercession, to come unto You. Amen +
Sing to the Lord a new song, for He has done marvelous deeds.
Luke 1:38
“Hail, full of grace! The Lord is with you.”
---------------------------------------------------------
The Immaculate Conception is a doctrine of the Catholic Church in regards to the Blessed Virgin Mary. An official statement of the doctrine reads, “…the blessed Virgin Mary to have been, from the first instant of her conception, by a singular grace and privilege of Almighty God…preserved free from all stain of original sin.” Essentially, the Immaculate Conception is the belief that Mary was protected from original sin.
Mary was indeed favored and full of grace. The Lord of heaven and earth had prepared and chosen her as a fertile ground into which he planted the seed of His Word. Angels still visit those who believe that grace is real and available, the favor and blessing of God. They come, bearing God’s message to men and women are humble enough to open themselves to its dynamic, sanctifying and transforming action.
Each of us is now called to become full of grace. The Lord desires to be with us, to live within us in a world that hungers for His love—a love which can be borne in us and offered through us to others. Mary shows us the way.
She heard the promise, believed, was filled with grace, and conceived the Lord who is Love incarnate. We can do likewise if we learn to pray, to listen, to hear, to respond, to say “Yes”.
In doing so we, like Mary, let us all also, in our hearts, discover that “nothing is impossible with God.”
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, who by the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary, did prepare a worthy dwelling place for Your Son, we beseech You that, as by the foreseen death of this, Your Son, You did preserve Her from all stain, so too You would permit us, purified through Her intercession, to come unto You. Amen +
Sing to the Lord a new song, for He has done marvelous deeds.
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
OUR HEART’S DESIRE (12-07-10)
Luke 5:22
“What are you thinking in your hearts?”
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We wake up in the morning doing the same routine… again and again and again. And then we ask ourselves… what do I want to do in my life? Most people question their destiny and purpose for this life we’ve been given.
Many of us don’t recognize our talents or gifts so we seem to float from day to day, doing the same thing over and over.
Our only joy now is an empty weekend that may provide moments of fun and enjoyment. Our joy is only the worldly things that we bought yesterday, and yet it would really not give us true joy.
And then Monday rolls around and we start the same lifeless pattern over again. Almost seems senseless.
Had it even made you think, for a moment, why all these senselessness?
Simple. Because, the Lord is not in your heart. God has created such a beautiful earth, the magnificent world filled with wonders too great to explain. And we only need to enjoy that greatness.
Let Him come to your heart and experience true joy.
For there is nothing better than living in the freedom, peace and joy of having Christ in our hearts!
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, we always think of ways to make our lives happy. But we always fail for we try to seek joy through materialism. Teach our hearts to seek You always for You are our only true joy. Blessed are we, because You are our God forever! Amen +
Our God will come to save us!
“What are you thinking in your hearts?”
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We wake up in the morning doing the same routine… again and again and again. And then we ask ourselves… what do I want to do in my life? Most people question their destiny and purpose for this life we’ve been given.
Many of us don’t recognize our talents or gifts so we seem to float from day to day, doing the same thing over and over.
Our only joy now is an empty weekend that may provide moments of fun and enjoyment. Our joy is only the worldly things that we bought yesterday, and yet it would really not give us true joy.
And then Monday rolls around and we start the same lifeless pattern over again. Almost seems senseless.
Had it even made you think, for a moment, why all these senselessness?
Simple. Because, the Lord is not in your heart. God has created such a beautiful earth, the magnificent world filled with wonders too great to explain. And we only need to enjoy that greatness.
Let Him come to your heart and experience true joy.
For there is nothing better than living in the freedom, peace and joy of having Christ in our hearts!
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, we always think of ways to make our lives happy. But we always fail for we try to seek joy through materialism. Teach our hearts to seek You always for You are our only true joy. Blessed are we, because You are our God forever! Amen +
Our God will come to save us!
Monday, December 6, 2010
PRICELESS! (12-06-10)
Matthew 10:8
Cure the sick, raise the dead, cleanse lepers, drive out demons. Without cost you have received; without cost you are to give.
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Some of you may have seen these ads from Mastercard. It would show you some spending done by the person (like a night in a hotel… $120, a bottle of wine…$150, dinner for two… $200). Then, it would cap it off with what those spending would really mean to him or his loved ones (getting her nod to marry you… PRICELESS!).
The Lord could have done the same during His public ministry. Imagine this:
Healing leprosy… 100 dinari
Making you see again… 200 dinari
Making a dead alive… 1,000 dinari
Multiplication of loaves… 50 dinari
But, salvation and eternal life… PRICELESS!
But this was not the case. This is not what He taught to His disciples. Rather, Jesus gives his apostles a lesson about what is priceless - SERVING: Without cost you have received; without cost you are to give. He gives us all and has come to take nothing away from us. Indeed, the Lord gained nothing in redeeming us; but rather spent Himself completely.
So the challenge is to give away what you’ve received. Don’t worry about what it is, or how much you have, or how it stacks up against what anyone else has received. Just give it away! It is really hard to do, for we are all attached to these material things. But always remember that we were born with nothing and that we shall leave this earthly world with nothing. But in giving, we will gain heaven – that is everything!
That is, PRICELESS!
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, in Your infinite riches, You have given me everything I have. Show me today how and where to give it away. I believe that even as I do, You will fill me with more and more. Amen +
Blessed are all who wait for the Lord.
Cure the sick, raise the dead, cleanse lepers, drive out demons. Without cost you have received; without cost you are to give.
-------------------------------------------------------
Some of you may have seen these ads from Mastercard. It would show you some spending done by the person (like a night in a hotel… $120, a bottle of wine…$150, dinner for two… $200). Then, it would cap it off with what those spending would really mean to him or his loved ones (getting her nod to marry you… PRICELESS!).
The Lord could have done the same during His public ministry. Imagine this:
Healing leprosy… 100 dinari
Making you see again… 200 dinari
Making a dead alive… 1,000 dinari
Multiplication of loaves… 50 dinari
But, salvation and eternal life… PRICELESS!
But this was not the case. This is not what He taught to His disciples. Rather, Jesus gives his apostles a lesson about what is priceless - SERVING: Without cost you have received; without cost you are to give. He gives us all and has come to take nothing away from us. Indeed, the Lord gained nothing in redeeming us; but rather spent Himself completely.
So the challenge is to give away what you’ve received. Don’t worry about what it is, or how much you have, or how it stacks up against what anyone else has received. Just give it away! It is really hard to do, for we are all attached to these material things. But always remember that we were born with nothing and that we shall leave this earthly world with nothing. But in giving, we will gain heaven – that is everything!
That is, PRICELESS!
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, in Your infinite riches, You have given me everything I have. Show me today how and where to give it away. I believe that even as I do, You will fill me with more and more. Amen +
Blessed are all who wait for the Lord.
Sunday, December 5, 2010
REPENT (12-05-10)
Second Sunday of Advent
Matthew 3:2
"Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand!"
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We would go to the beach. The night before that, I cannot sleep. My mother would tell me that I am excited. I said no, I am not excited – I just don’t want to be left behind me when the morning comes and it is time to go. So, I have to stay awake.
It was Christmas Eve. I cannot sleep and have to wait for midnight. My mother would tell me to sleep and she will just wake me up in time for the midnight dinner. I said no, I have to stay awake for she might not wake me up and miss everything that I have waited for. So, I have to stay awake.
I can still remember other instances wherein I have to stay awake, prepare and wait for something or someone. In this season of advent, may we be reminded to prepare our hearts for the coming of the Lord. Ultimately then, waiting upon God protects us, deepens our trust in Him, forces us to seek His ways and brings Him the most glory.
There are now two paths people must choose from today. One leads back to God, restoration and the Light of Jesus Christ. The other to Satan, destruction and eternal darkness. Let us pray that people can be drawn back to the path of Jesus Christ, repent and be restored once again to God.
As we prepare for the coming of the Lord, let us pray +
Almighty Father, Lord, our God,
We praise You for Your Son, Jesus Christ,
For He is Emmanuel, the Hope of all people.
He is the Wisdom that teaches and guides us.
He is the Savior of us all.
O Lord, we light a candle today, a small dim light
Against a world that often seems forbidding and dark.
But we light it because we are a people of hope,
That we should always be ready for the coming of the Master.
The Lord will make the darkest places bright, in Jesus’ name. Amen. +
Justice shall flourish in his time, and fullness of peace for ever.
Matthew 3:2
"Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand!"
--------------------------------------------------------
We would go to the beach. The night before that, I cannot sleep. My mother would tell me that I am excited. I said no, I am not excited – I just don’t want to be left behind me when the morning comes and it is time to go. So, I have to stay awake.
It was Christmas Eve. I cannot sleep and have to wait for midnight. My mother would tell me to sleep and she will just wake me up in time for the midnight dinner. I said no, I have to stay awake for she might not wake me up and miss everything that I have waited for. So, I have to stay awake.
I can still remember other instances wherein I have to stay awake, prepare and wait for something or someone. In this season of advent, may we be reminded to prepare our hearts for the coming of the Lord. Ultimately then, waiting upon God protects us, deepens our trust in Him, forces us to seek His ways and brings Him the most glory.
There are now two paths people must choose from today. One leads back to God, restoration and the Light of Jesus Christ. The other to Satan, destruction and eternal darkness. Let us pray that people can be drawn back to the path of Jesus Christ, repent and be restored once again to God.
As we prepare for the coming of the Lord, let us pray +
Almighty Father, Lord, our God,
We praise You for Your Son, Jesus Christ,
For He is Emmanuel, the Hope of all people.
He is the Wisdom that teaches and guides us.
He is the Savior of us all.
O Lord, we light a candle today, a small dim light
Against a world that often seems forbidding and dark.
But we light it because we are a people of hope,
That we should always be ready for the coming of the Master.
The Lord will make the darkest places bright, in Jesus’ name. Amen. +
Justice shall flourish in his time, and fullness of peace for ever.
Saturday, December 4, 2010
RESISTANCE (12-04-10)
James 1:13
Let no one say when he is tempted, "I am tempted by God"; for God cannot be tempted with evil and he himself tempts no one…
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The devil knows when to hit me, when to tempt me so I may sin against God and against the people I love. He knows he cannot hit me in the morning. When I wake up, I am strong in mind, body and spirit – prayer time, meditation time through the Rosary, write my daily devotions, hearty breakfast, kiss my wife and off I go to the office.
But he knows he can hit me in the evening. After a long day in the office, I would be at my lowest ebb. Very tired from work, hungry, my brain is simply not functioning anymore, and to think that I still have to finish another presentation before I retire at night (that is if I still have then energy to finish it), “I am really ripe for the devil’s picking”.
He would tempt me to be a glutton at dinner (“hey, I need the energy”), tempt me to watch TV and ignore my kid’s plea to help them in their homework (“sorry, my brain is out there, somewhere”).
But I can always ignore Satan. How about another prayer time in the evening, asking God to give me more strength – to resist evil and to look after the needs of my spirit and my loved ones.
It is not hard to do, if I can put my heart into it.
Almighty Father, You are my strength, and to You I would forever be faithful; You will not allow me to be tempted beyond what I can bear. But I firmly believe that when I am tempted, You will also provide a way out so that I can stand up under it, and simply say no to Satan.
Let us pray +
Oh Lord, to struggle courageously against temptation is one of the most meritorious acts we can perform; and once we have triumphed with Your grace, may we receive the crown of life that You have promised to those who fully and truly love You. Amen +
Be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger.
Let no one say when he is tempted, "I am tempted by God"; for God cannot be tempted with evil and he himself tempts no one…
------------------------------------------------
The devil knows when to hit me, when to tempt me so I may sin against God and against the people I love. He knows he cannot hit me in the morning. When I wake up, I am strong in mind, body and spirit – prayer time, meditation time through the Rosary, write my daily devotions, hearty breakfast, kiss my wife and off I go to the office.
But he knows he can hit me in the evening. After a long day in the office, I would be at my lowest ebb. Very tired from work, hungry, my brain is simply not functioning anymore, and to think that I still have to finish another presentation before I retire at night (that is if I still have then energy to finish it), “I am really ripe for the devil’s picking”.
He would tempt me to be a glutton at dinner (“hey, I need the energy”), tempt me to watch TV and ignore my kid’s plea to help them in their homework (“sorry, my brain is out there, somewhere”).
But I can always ignore Satan. How about another prayer time in the evening, asking God to give me more strength – to resist evil and to look after the needs of my spirit and my loved ones.
It is not hard to do, if I can put my heart into it.
Almighty Father, You are my strength, and to You I would forever be faithful; You will not allow me to be tempted beyond what I can bear. But I firmly believe that when I am tempted, You will also provide a way out so that I can stand up under it, and simply say no to Satan.
Let us pray +
Oh Lord, to struggle courageously against temptation is one of the most meritorious acts we can perform; and once we have triumphed with Your grace, may we receive the crown of life that You have promised to those who fully and truly love You. Amen +
Be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger.
Friday, December 3, 2010
DIAL 4-6-3 (G-O-D) (12-03-10)
Matthew 7:7
Ask, and it will be given you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you.
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In the 80’s, call centers are still not the norm. And when someone needs help, one has to call the utility company’s service hotline numbers. And I do tell you, getting someone to talk to you is next to impossible!
I still remember one time, when suddenly, the electricity in our house got cut-off. It is not really a power brownout since only a few houses in our area were affected. My father repeatedly called Meralco (the utility firm) operator to no avail for the last hour or so. When we were finally able to talk to someone, she put us on hold for 20 minutes, and later advised my father that a crew is on its way to fix whatever is wrong in the power line.
Well, as most of you would know already, the truck came after 12 hours and was able to fix the problem in a matter of minutes. I was really mad, because the ice and the ice candy that I sell at that time have all melted – Business NOT Usual!
Isn’t it great to know that this is not the case when we call God for help? For we can do it by a simple prayer – no need for a phone, no need to talk to an operator. Now He may not give us everything we want, and He may not do it in our time, but He will hear, and He will answer us. We can trust Him completely.
Let us pray +
Father in Heaven, ever-living source of all that is good,
Keep us faithful in serving You.
Help us to drink of Christ's Truth, and fill our hearts with Your Love
So that we may serve You in faith, love each other and reach eternal life.
Keep us in Your presence.
Never let us be separated from You
And help us obey Your Will.
We ask all of these, in Your son Jesus’ name.
Amen +
Pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances.
Ask, and it will be given you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you.
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In the 80’s, call centers are still not the norm. And when someone needs help, one has to call the utility company’s service hotline numbers. And I do tell you, getting someone to talk to you is next to impossible!
I still remember one time, when suddenly, the electricity in our house got cut-off. It is not really a power brownout since only a few houses in our area were affected. My father repeatedly called Meralco (the utility firm) operator to no avail for the last hour or so. When we were finally able to talk to someone, she put us on hold for 20 minutes, and later advised my father that a crew is on its way to fix whatever is wrong in the power line.
Well, as most of you would know already, the truck came after 12 hours and was able to fix the problem in a matter of minutes. I was really mad, because the ice and the ice candy that I sell at that time have all melted – Business NOT Usual!
Isn’t it great to know that this is not the case when we call God for help? For we can do it by a simple prayer – no need for a phone, no need to talk to an operator. Now He may not give us everything we want, and He may not do it in our time, but He will hear, and He will answer us. We can trust Him completely.
Let us pray +
Father in Heaven, ever-living source of all that is good,
Keep us faithful in serving You.
Help us to drink of Christ's Truth, and fill our hearts with Your Love
So that we may serve You in faith, love each other and reach eternal life.
Keep us in Your presence.
Never let us be separated from You
And help us obey Your Will.
We ask all of these, in Your son Jesus’ name.
Amen +
Pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances.
Thursday, December 2, 2010
MOVED WITH PITY (12-02-10)
Matthew 15:32
“My heart is moved with pity for the crowd, for they have been with me now for three days and have nothing to eat…”
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“I do not want to send them away hungry…”
I would sometimes tell my wife whenever we have visitors. So I would ask her to cook or buy something to eat before they leave. Or maybe, so that when I visit them, they would also do the same. Shame on me…
“I do not have spare coins, maybe she can ask from somebody else…”
I would tell my wife whenever a beggar would approach us asking for food or money. And I would not care if she has not eaten for days, as long as I can eat at my favorite food house. Shame on me…
For the Lord is different… Jesus’ heart is moved with pity for everyone.
The hungry…
The sick…
The oppressed…
The lame, the blind…
Jesus’ heart is moved with pity for all of us, for we always put ourselves above everyone else.
His heart is moved for pity for all of us, because we are hungry for love, sick in spirit, and blind to things that would concern us most.
Let us come back to Him and feed on His Words and let our hearts listen to Him forever. So our spirit may feel full, and have that attitude to share that same feeling of fullness and joy with others.
Let us pray +
Lord Jesus, indeed, have pity on us. And then may you finding us sharing your compassion with others who need your pity too. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen +
I shall live in the house of the Lord all the days of my life.
“My heart is moved with pity for the crowd, for they have been with me now for three days and have nothing to eat…”
---------------------------------------------------
“I do not want to send them away hungry…”
I would sometimes tell my wife whenever we have visitors. So I would ask her to cook or buy something to eat before they leave. Or maybe, so that when I visit them, they would also do the same. Shame on me…
“I do not have spare coins, maybe she can ask from somebody else…”
I would tell my wife whenever a beggar would approach us asking for food or money. And I would not care if she has not eaten for days, as long as I can eat at my favorite food house. Shame on me…
For the Lord is different… Jesus’ heart is moved with pity for everyone.
The hungry…
The sick…
The oppressed…
The lame, the blind…
Jesus’ heart is moved with pity for all of us, for we always put ourselves above everyone else.
His heart is moved for pity for all of us, because we are hungry for love, sick in spirit, and blind to things that would concern us most.
Let us come back to Him and feed on His Words and let our hearts listen to Him forever. So our spirit may feel full, and have that attitude to share that same feeling of fullness and joy with others.
Let us pray +
Lord Jesus, indeed, have pity on us. And then may you finding us sharing your compassion with others who need your pity too. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen +
I shall live in the house of the Lord all the days of my life.
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
SEVEN BASKETS FULL (12-01-10)
Matthew 15:37
They all ate and were satisfied. They picked up the fragments left over–seven baskets full.
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In the bible, one of the most famous miracle stories is the feeding of five-thousand. It was the end of the day, and people are hungry. It was getting dark, and maybe, children are crying and people are asking for food. Worse, the disciples doesn’t even know what to do.
And Jesus, being a good host, “was moved with compassion for them”. “You give them something to eat”, He said. And something to eat, they found – five loaves of bread and two fish.
Jesus did not panicked – in fact, He never panics! He blessed the bread and the fish, and was able to feed the five-thousand. And there were even leftovers! He produced so much for so many, and so much more.
Jesus was showing us that not only does He solve our problems, He does it with more abundance than we could ask for or even imagine. Therefore, we must release our resources to Him in trust. And it must be accompanied by our learning to trust Him by doing what He asks, even if we have no idea where He is going with it.
In this season of Christmas, we would again be blessed with so much material things and gifts. But let us not forget the true gift of the season – the blessing of having the Gospel of salvation. We are stewards of what the Lord has given us and we have a responsibility to share with others the same thing that He has shared with us. And we'll be there to pick up the left-over pieces and marvel the weight of his abundance.
“How many loaves do you have? Go, see and share.”
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, feed us with Your words and love. You will provide for us, forever. Here are my small resources. I offer them to you unconditionally. Our job is to have faith that You will; to trust in You; and to pray without ceasing so we may live in Your love. Amen +
I shall live in the house of the Lord all the days of my life.
They all ate and were satisfied. They picked up the fragments left over–seven baskets full.
--------------------------------------------------------
In the bible, one of the most famous miracle stories is the feeding of five-thousand. It was the end of the day, and people are hungry. It was getting dark, and maybe, children are crying and people are asking for food. Worse, the disciples doesn’t even know what to do.
And Jesus, being a good host, “was moved with compassion for them”. “You give them something to eat”, He said. And something to eat, they found – five loaves of bread and two fish.
Jesus did not panicked – in fact, He never panics! He blessed the bread and the fish, and was able to feed the five-thousand. And there were even leftovers! He produced so much for so many, and so much more.
Jesus was showing us that not only does He solve our problems, He does it with more abundance than we could ask for or even imagine. Therefore, we must release our resources to Him in trust. And it must be accompanied by our learning to trust Him by doing what He asks, even if we have no idea where He is going with it.
In this season of Christmas, we would again be blessed with so much material things and gifts. But let us not forget the true gift of the season – the blessing of having the Gospel of salvation. We are stewards of what the Lord has given us and we have a responsibility to share with others the same thing that He has shared with us. And we'll be there to pick up the left-over pieces and marvel the weight of his abundance.
“How many loaves do you have? Go, see and share.”
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, feed us with Your words and love. You will provide for us, forever. Here are my small resources. I offer them to you unconditionally. Our job is to have faith that You will; to trust in You; and to pray without ceasing so we may live in Your love. Amen +
I shall live in the house of the Lord all the days of my life.
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