Mark 10:14
“Let the children come to me; do not prevent them, for the Kingdom of God belongs to such as these.”
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Still remember being a child?
Ahhh, those were the days. When all we can think about is playing, sleeping, eating and being naughty. When nothing much is really expected from us, that is, aside from studying well, which we would also often fail to do. When our parents would really take care of us and really make us feel important – for we are their jewel, the apple of their eyes.
And when we would really be dependent on them for our needs, fully knowing that their love can help us through tough times and bad times.
And would you believe, though we are all grown ups, in the eyes of God, we are still His little children, worthy of His affection and love?
But this doesn’t mean that we have to act or think like a childish person. A childlike person is playful, open minded and unrestrained by the inner voice of reason, collective cynicism, or fear of failure. We should see good in everything we see, hear and experience. God doesn’t want us to understand everything but He wants us to trust in Him as we live our life, totally oblivious of what will happen tomorrow.
And so let us remain being a child…
Fully dependent to our Father for all our needs. Childlike at heart and possesses those wondrous qualities like unconditional love, trust, playfulness and simplicity. And willing to share to others that feeling of pure happiness, pure contentment and pure joy.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, we ask You to bless us, keep us in Your love. Lord, give us hearts that are open, hearts that are humble and gentle. And through the hands of your little ones, we ask you to bless us. Amen +
The Lord’s kindness is everlasting to those who fear him.
Wednesday, February 29, 2012
Tuesday, February 28, 2012
PURIFICATION (02-28-12)
Sirach 17:21-22
Turn again to the Most High and away from your sin, hate intensely what he loathes, and know the justice and judgments of God…
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Yes, He also teaches us to hate…
And to hate intensely… those things that He dislikes and greatly abhor.
And what are these? Only three letters – sin – but the impact to our lives is so great that it would also mean where we would be in the afterlife.
Whether we like it or not, God has always made it clear – we must do the right things, by His standards, in order to achieve salvation. And those those who strive to serve God, while trying to lead others to Him rather than away from Him, stand a much better chance in the afterlife.
And the more that we need to have Jesus in our lives and in our hearts. He came to the world in order to reform the hearts of sinners like you and me.
So the heart is utterly crucial to Jesus.
Jesus did not come into the world simply because we have some bad habits that need to be corrected. He came into the world because we have such dirty hearts that need to be purified, so we may live perfectly as our Heavenly Father is perfect.
And so when the time comes that we meet God face to face, he will not only ask how many sins you have committed. But He would also ask how many people are in hell because of you. How many people are suffering because you simply failed to love them. How many are doomed to burn eternally because of your utter disregard of Jesus’ promise of salvation.
Our dirty heart needs cleansing… and only Jesus can take away all that dirt.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, clean out my heart. Fill me with your Spirit. Only You have the power to forgive and have the power to change me. Amen +
Let the just exult and rejoice in the Lord.
Turn again to the Most High and away from your sin, hate intensely what he loathes, and know the justice and judgments of God…
-------------------------------------------------------------
Yes, He also teaches us to hate…
And to hate intensely… those things that He dislikes and greatly abhor.
And what are these? Only three letters – sin – but the impact to our lives is so great that it would also mean where we would be in the afterlife.
Whether we like it or not, God has always made it clear – we must do the right things, by His standards, in order to achieve salvation. And those those who strive to serve God, while trying to lead others to Him rather than away from Him, stand a much better chance in the afterlife.
And the more that we need to have Jesus in our lives and in our hearts. He came to the world in order to reform the hearts of sinners like you and me.
So the heart is utterly crucial to Jesus.
Jesus did not come into the world simply because we have some bad habits that need to be corrected. He came into the world because we have such dirty hearts that need to be purified, so we may live perfectly as our Heavenly Father is perfect.
And so when the time comes that we meet God face to face, he will not only ask how many sins you have committed. But He would also ask how many people are in hell because of you. How many people are suffering because you simply failed to love them. How many are doomed to burn eternally because of your utter disregard of Jesus’ promise of salvation.
Our dirty heart needs cleansing… and only Jesus can take away all that dirt.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, clean out my heart. Fill me with your Spirit. Only You have the power to forgive and have the power to change me. Amen +
Let the just exult and rejoice in the Lord.
Monday, February 27, 2012
DO IT TODAY (02-27-12)
Matthew 6:33-34
But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be given you besides. Do not worry about tomorrow; tomorrow will take care of itself.
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We start with a piggy bank to save for tomorrow. Then we start opening savings account. And as we earn more, we would open a time deposit or a trust account. And of course, who would forget the insurance and the educational plans. All of these to prepare for what tomorrow may bring.
And there is nothing wrong with this. Being prepared is a principle worth emulating simply because no one really knows what will happen then.
Still, we are being reminded not to overdo it. We are being reminded by today’s gospel that too much worrying about what will happen tomorrow is not a healthy attitude. We can prepare for the future, but stop thinking much about it that we forget our present.
Tomorrow is not promised to anyone, and today may be the last chance you get to hold your loved one tight.
So if you're waiting for tomorrow, why not do it today?
For if tomorrow never comes, you'll surely regret the day that you didn't take that extra time for a smile, a hug, or a kiss and you were too busy to grant someone, what turned out to be their one last wish.
So hold your loved ones close today, and whisper in their ear, tell them how much you love them and that you'll always hold them dear. Take time to say “I'm sorry”, “Please forgive me”, “Thank you” or “It's okay”.
Do it today… not tomorrow.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, Take us in Your arms and cradle us with love. You are a great provider and always will be. You have our trust, for trust is faith. And we firmly believe that You will never let us down. Amen +
Rest in God alone, my soul.
But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be given you besides. Do not worry about tomorrow; tomorrow will take care of itself.
----------------------------------------------------------------
We start with a piggy bank to save for tomorrow. Then we start opening savings account. And as we earn more, we would open a time deposit or a trust account. And of course, who would forget the insurance and the educational plans. All of these to prepare for what tomorrow may bring.
And there is nothing wrong with this. Being prepared is a principle worth emulating simply because no one really knows what will happen then.
Still, we are being reminded not to overdo it. We are being reminded by today’s gospel that too much worrying about what will happen tomorrow is not a healthy attitude. We can prepare for the future, but stop thinking much about it that we forget our present.
Tomorrow is not promised to anyone, and today may be the last chance you get to hold your loved one tight.
So if you're waiting for tomorrow, why not do it today?
For if tomorrow never comes, you'll surely regret the day that you didn't take that extra time for a smile, a hug, or a kiss and you were too busy to grant someone, what turned out to be their one last wish.
So hold your loved ones close today, and whisper in their ear, tell them how much you love them and that you'll always hold them dear. Take time to say “I'm sorry”, “Please forgive me”, “Thank you” or “It's okay”.
Do it today… not tomorrow.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, Take us in Your arms and cradle us with love. You are a great provider and always will be. You have our trust, for trust is faith. And we firmly believe that You will never let us down. Amen +
Rest in God alone, my soul.
Sunday, February 26, 2012
VICTORIOUS OVER SINS (02-26-12)
First Sunday of Lent
Matthew 4:11
Then the devil left him and, behold, angels came and ministered to him.
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He is the Son of God, the Lord of the Most High, and still He was tempted.
Satan knows that He is the son of God, and yet, it still had the guts to tempt Him. OR, a better way to put it – Satan knows He is the Son of God, THAT IS WHY, it gathered all his guts to tempt Him.
He succeeded before when He tempted Adam, who gave in to its wants and “through one man sin entered the world, and through sin, death, and thus death came to all men.” And Satan would do anything to prevent man from achieving the promises of salvation.
The temptation of Jesus focused on Satan's determined effort to keep Jesus from the cross. It didn't want Him to die so that we may live for it knew Christ's death will destroy evil, death, and Satan himself. The proof of his desperation was his willingness to compromise with Jesus by letting Him rule over an earthly, materialistic kingdom.
But, Satan would never succeed the second time. But, it would never stop. Satan returned throughout Christ's ministry: through demon-possessed people, the hardened hearts of the scribes and the Pharisees; His own family who cannot understand His mission in life, His own disciples; and finally in the colossal struggle in Gethsemane, where for the nth time, He accepted His fate by following the will of God – “I shall drink the cup which the Father has given Me”.
And as we become victorious against temptation, God will send His angels to minister on us, guiding us, protecting us so that Satan may not succeed again in separating us from the One, True God. Resist temptation and live life fully with the Lord.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, teach us to be vigilant in the eyes and the heart, strong in spirit and virtue in resisting temptation. Amen +
Have mercy on me, O God, in your goodness…
Matthew 4:11
Then the devil left him and, behold, angels came and ministered to him.
--------------------------------------------------------------
He is the Son of God, the Lord of the Most High, and still He was tempted.
Satan knows that He is the son of God, and yet, it still had the guts to tempt Him. OR, a better way to put it – Satan knows He is the Son of God, THAT IS WHY, it gathered all his guts to tempt Him.
He succeeded before when He tempted Adam, who gave in to its wants and “through one man sin entered the world, and through sin, death, and thus death came to all men.” And Satan would do anything to prevent man from achieving the promises of salvation.
The temptation of Jesus focused on Satan's determined effort to keep Jesus from the cross. It didn't want Him to die so that we may live for it knew Christ's death will destroy evil, death, and Satan himself. The proof of his desperation was his willingness to compromise with Jesus by letting Him rule over an earthly, materialistic kingdom.
But, Satan would never succeed the second time. But, it would never stop. Satan returned throughout Christ's ministry: through demon-possessed people, the hardened hearts of the scribes and the Pharisees; His own family who cannot understand His mission in life, His own disciples; and finally in the colossal struggle in Gethsemane, where for the nth time, He accepted His fate by following the will of God – “I shall drink the cup which the Father has given Me”.
And as we become victorious against temptation, God will send His angels to minister on us, guiding us, protecting us so that Satan may not succeed again in separating us from the One, True God. Resist temptation and live life fully with the Lord.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, teach us to be vigilant in the eyes and the heart, strong in spirit and virtue in resisting temptation. Amen +
Have mercy on me, O God, in your goodness…
Saturday, February 25, 2012
THE RIGHT CHOICES (02-25-12)
Psalms 119:34
Give me discernment, that I may observe your law and keep it with all my heart.
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More than twenty-five years ago, Filipinos from all ages, from all walks of life, gathered in front of the two biggest military installations in Manila. They trooped there not to clash with the military, but to support their beleaguered leaders, who was defected and tried to stage a coup d’etat.
But, it became more than just a throw of support, but became an event that unseated what many considered as a dictator. More people came in. They prayed, they sang, they dance… and they stopped tanks from proceeding.
The Filipinos have made a choice at that time, and their choice is freedom from years of oppression and dictatorship. The Filipinos have made a choice at that time, and God sided with them.
It was difficult back then to discern whether what happened was good or bad. But seeing people praying, hugging, giving flowers to each other, crying and meeting new friends – then anyone can say that it was the Holy Spirit leading the people and giving direction.
Our life is a constant struggle – to choose between doing the right thing or otherwise. And most of the time, we do not even know what is right or what is wrong simply because we rely on our own understanding.
Yes, He has given us free-will to decide. But we must ensure that every decision we make is centered on God’s laws and commandments. And unless we keep them by heart, we would still commit mistake for we are not infallible. And so, seek Him first and pray for wisdom before making any hard decisions.
Allow Him to talk to you. And let His Spirit guide you to the right choices.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, give me discernment that I may make the right choices in life. Choices that are centered on Your will. Amen +
Guide me, Lord, in the way of your commands.
Give me discernment, that I may observe your law and keep it with all my heart.
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More than twenty-five years ago, Filipinos from all ages, from all walks of life, gathered in front of the two biggest military installations in Manila. They trooped there not to clash with the military, but to support their beleaguered leaders, who was defected and tried to stage a coup d’etat.
But, it became more than just a throw of support, but became an event that unseated what many considered as a dictator. More people came in. They prayed, they sang, they dance… and they stopped tanks from proceeding.
The Filipinos have made a choice at that time, and their choice is freedom from years of oppression and dictatorship. The Filipinos have made a choice at that time, and God sided with them.
It was difficult back then to discern whether what happened was good or bad. But seeing people praying, hugging, giving flowers to each other, crying and meeting new friends – then anyone can say that it was the Holy Spirit leading the people and giving direction.
Our life is a constant struggle – to choose between doing the right thing or otherwise. And most of the time, we do not even know what is right or what is wrong simply because we rely on our own understanding.
Yes, He has given us free-will to decide. But we must ensure that every decision we make is centered on God’s laws and commandments. And unless we keep them by heart, we would still commit mistake for we are not infallible. And so, seek Him first and pray for wisdom before making any hard decisions.
Allow Him to talk to you. And let His Spirit guide you to the right choices.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, give me discernment that I may make the right choices in life. Choices that are centered on Your will. Amen +
Guide me, Lord, in the way of your commands.
Friday, February 24, 2012
EVERY MOMENT (02-24-12)
Luke 18:7
Delay not your conversion to the LORD, put it not off from day to day.
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For those who have seen me since my college days would know that I have gained so much weight through the years. When I graduated from college, I only weight about 145 lbs.
And when I get married, I started to pack them in. I would tell to myself that I would go on diet the next day… or start exercising the next week. But nothing happened.
And so I reached a peak weight of about 220 lbs. And that is when my health starts to deteriorate. During my annual check-up, I was once diagnosed as suspect diabetic due to my high sugar level. And I was hypertensive and had to take some medication for some time.
That is when I started to realize that I have to do something. I told myself that I would go on diet… and I did it at once. I told myself to exercise… and I did it at once. No more procrastination, for my health is at stake.
Similarly, our spiritual health should also be put on check, not only daily but every moment of our life. We should not delay anything that would make us closer to God. We should not delay anything that would let us accept Him in our hearts. We should not delay anything that would ensure us to be in heaven with Him when we finally close our eyes.
Conversion should happen now, at this moment… not next week, not tomorrow, not a second more. Or else, it may be too late.
Kneel in prayer now and believe in your heart that Jesus is your Lord and Savior. Invite Him to renew your life and be an obedient disciple from now on. Ask Him to forgive your sins and persevere not to repeat them again. And know Him more, love Him more… every moment of your life.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, at this moment, enter my heart. At this moment, You are my Lord and my Savior. At this moment, I am yours. Amen +
Blessed are they who hope in the Lord.
Delay not your conversion to the LORD, put it not off from day to day.
--------------------------------------------------------------
For those who have seen me since my college days would know that I have gained so much weight through the years. When I graduated from college, I only weight about 145 lbs.
And when I get married, I started to pack them in. I would tell to myself that I would go on diet the next day… or start exercising the next week. But nothing happened.
And so I reached a peak weight of about 220 lbs. And that is when my health starts to deteriorate. During my annual check-up, I was once diagnosed as suspect diabetic due to my high sugar level. And I was hypertensive and had to take some medication for some time.
That is when I started to realize that I have to do something. I told myself that I would go on diet… and I did it at once. I told myself to exercise… and I did it at once. No more procrastination, for my health is at stake.
Similarly, our spiritual health should also be put on check, not only daily but every moment of our life. We should not delay anything that would make us closer to God. We should not delay anything that would let us accept Him in our hearts. We should not delay anything that would ensure us to be in heaven with Him when we finally close our eyes.
Conversion should happen now, at this moment… not next week, not tomorrow, not a second more. Or else, it may be too late.
Kneel in prayer now and believe in your heart that Jesus is your Lord and Savior. Invite Him to renew your life and be an obedient disciple from now on. Ask Him to forgive your sins and persevere not to repeat them again. And know Him more, love Him more… every moment of your life.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, at this moment, enter my heart. At this moment, You are my Lord and my Savior. At this moment, I am yours. Amen +
Blessed are they who hope in the Lord.
Thursday, February 23, 2012
LIVE FOR JESUS (02-23-12)
Mark 9:39-40
“There is no one who performs a mighty deed in my name who can at the same time speak ill of me. For whoever is not against us is for us.”
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The condominium community where we live in is composed of very diverse people. Some maybe there to live in peace, or some may have some other things in mind. But if some of them do live in one of those units, then it is a fact of life.
In this world, good and bad people live in “perfect harmony” – people who are for and against the truth that Jesus espouses.
And we are all given the choice – do want to be for Him or against Him? But He is also very clear when He says that those who believe in Him shall not perish but would have eternal life.
What the Lord was saying was that there aren’t going to be any more special mountains you need to go to. There are no special anointed places you need to seek out.
No special religions that can take to themselves as being the true religion. There are no great religious figures you need to bless you. True worship will be of the heart – accepting Jesus as our Lord.
Jesus is present with every one of His people. He is in their hearts. He is in their mouths. He is in their lives. Christ Himself builds His Church, and He flocks His people as He wills.
He calls us one, by one, by one. And as for our flock of gathering, we just need to find out where the Lord would have us to be. And together, we should work hand in hand for Him, our Lord forever and ever.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, I have gone my own way and not put you at the center of my life. I am very sorry and ask that you please forgive me. Please help me to follow you more closely every day and live a life which gives glory back to you. I pray this in Jesus' name. Amen +
O Lord, great peace have they who love your law.
“There is no one who performs a mighty deed in my name who can at the same time speak ill of me. For whoever is not against us is for us.”
------------------------------------------------------------
The condominium community where we live in is composed of very diverse people. Some maybe there to live in peace, or some may have some other things in mind. But if some of them do live in one of those units, then it is a fact of life.
In this world, good and bad people live in “perfect harmony” – people who are for and against the truth that Jesus espouses.
And we are all given the choice – do want to be for Him or against Him? But He is also very clear when He says that those who believe in Him shall not perish but would have eternal life.
What the Lord was saying was that there aren’t going to be any more special mountains you need to go to. There are no special anointed places you need to seek out.
No special religions that can take to themselves as being the true religion. There are no great religious figures you need to bless you. True worship will be of the heart – accepting Jesus as our Lord.
Jesus is present with every one of His people. He is in their hearts. He is in their mouths. He is in their lives. Christ Himself builds His Church, and He flocks His people as He wills.
He calls us one, by one, by one. And as for our flock of gathering, we just need to find out where the Lord would have us to be. And together, we should work hand in hand for Him, our Lord forever and ever.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, I have gone my own way and not put you at the center of my life. I am very sorry and ask that you please forgive me. Please help me to follow you more closely every day and live a life which gives glory back to you. I pray this in Jesus' name. Amen +
O Lord, great peace have they who love your law.
REFRESH MY SOUL (02-22-12)
Ash Wednesday
Psalms 23:1-2
The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. In verdant pastures he gives me repose; Beside restful waters he leads me; he refreshes my soul.
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After biking for thirty minutes and jogging for another fifteen minutes, my body and les would not just be aching and tired. I would also be sweating profusely. And dust and dirt would be clinging on to my legs and arms.
After a ten minute rest, it’s time to hit the shower.
And as I turn on the shower, I would immediately feel the water hitting my weary body. Each drop would be soothing, taking out all the sweat, mud, dirt and dust.
It is refreshing, it is rejuvenating… and a relaxed body would mean a relaxed mind that is ready to face the challenges of the day.
And as our body needs rejuvenation, so does our soul.
Our soul would get dirty. Our soul would get muddy. Our soul would get blackened because of sins. And as we do not want our body to be dirty for a long time, why not do the same for our soul?
Come to the Lord, for when it comes to soul cleansing, we cannot just rely on ourselves. We cannot just read the Bible or attend the mass or say the Rosary and expect that we are clean afterwards. We need to allow the Lord to wash away all our sins.
Let Him touch our weary heart. Let every drop of His blood wash away the dirt and dust and each drop would be soothing, refreshing our soul and be ready again to face the challenges of life. Let Him come into your life, amending our lives and living a life that God has intended and wants for us.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, refresh my soul. May Your Son, our Good Shepherd, wash away all our fears, doubts and sins and make us clean again. Amen +
The Lord is my shepherd; there is nothing I shall want.
Psalms 23:1-2
The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. In verdant pastures he gives me repose; Beside restful waters he leads me; he refreshes my soul.
-------------------------------------------------------------
After biking for thirty minutes and jogging for another fifteen minutes, my body and les would not just be aching and tired. I would also be sweating profusely. And dust and dirt would be clinging on to my legs and arms.
After a ten minute rest, it’s time to hit the shower.
And as I turn on the shower, I would immediately feel the water hitting my weary body. Each drop would be soothing, taking out all the sweat, mud, dirt and dust.
It is refreshing, it is rejuvenating… and a relaxed body would mean a relaxed mind that is ready to face the challenges of the day.
And as our body needs rejuvenation, so does our soul.
Our soul would get dirty. Our soul would get muddy. Our soul would get blackened because of sins. And as we do not want our body to be dirty for a long time, why not do the same for our soul?
Come to the Lord, for when it comes to soul cleansing, we cannot just rely on ourselves. We cannot just read the Bible or attend the mass or say the Rosary and expect that we are clean afterwards. We need to allow the Lord to wash away all our sins.
Let Him touch our weary heart. Let every drop of His blood wash away the dirt and dust and each drop would be soothing, refreshing our soul and be ready again to face the challenges of life. Let Him come into your life, amending our lives and living a life that God has intended and wants for us.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, refresh my soul. May Your Son, our Good Shepherd, wash away all our fears, doubts and sins and make us clean again. Amen +
The Lord is my shepherd; there is nothing I shall want.
Tuesday, February 21, 2012
THROUGH PRAYER (02-21-12)
Mark 9:29
He said to them, “This kind can only come out through prayer.”
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As a child, most, if not all of us, had been taught to say a little prayer before meal, before going to bed, upon waking up, before going to school and even before the start of our class.
In our own little way, we were able to thank God for all the blessings He has provided. And in our own little understanding, we knew then that in everything that is good and bad, prayer can take us through.
However, as we go through life, we simply forgot the power of prayer. We would start thinking that we can go through life on our own. That we can succeed through our own efforts. And so we thought.
You may be in this position today. Going through life as though everything can be achieved because of you alone. I do hope that you will have a change of heart and start involving God again in your life.
You and I will have many needs on our journey through life - needs of which our Father in heaven is already well aware. Meet with Him in prayer, thanking Him ahead of time for meeting our new needs. God may not always give us what we want, but He will always provide what we need.
Remember, God is every bit as gratified and pleased when we make requests of Him as a parent is when a child turns to him or her for help. And He is constantly hearing that prayers from our heart.
Every good thing in our lives can only come out through prayer. Even our greatest enemy, Satan, is no match to the power of prayer. So, every moment you find time, close your eyes and pray – thank God, praise God, worship God, bless God. Only something good can come out of it.
Let us pray +
Oh Lord, I pray for the goodness of everyone. May we constantly seek You and continuously praise Your mighty name. I humbly and silently pray with all my heart and thank You. Amen +
All wisdom comes from the LORD…
He said to them, “This kind can only come out through prayer.”
-------------------------------------------------------------
As a child, most, if not all of us, had been taught to say a little prayer before meal, before going to bed, upon waking up, before going to school and even before the start of our class.
In our own little way, we were able to thank God for all the blessings He has provided. And in our own little understanding, we knew then that in everything that is good and bad, prayer can take us through.
However, as we go through life, we simply forgot the power of prayer. We would start thinking that we can go through life on our own. That we can succeed through our own efforts. And so we thought.
You may be in this position today. Going through life as though everything can be achieved because of you alone. I do hope that you will have a change of heart and start involving God again in your life.
You and I will have many needs on our journey through life - needs of which our Father in heaven is already well aware. Meet with Him in prayer, thanking Him ahead of time for meeting our new needs. God may not always give us what we want, but He will always provide what we need.
Remember, God is every bit as gratified and pleased when we make requests of Him as a parent is when a child turns to him or her for help. And He is constantly hearing that prayers from our heart.
Every good thing in our lives can only come out through prayer. Even our greatest enemy, Satan, is no match to the power of prayer. So, every moment you find time, close your eyes and pray – thank God, praise God, worship God, bless God. Only something good can come out of it.
Let us pray +
Oh Lord, I pray for the goodness of everyone. May we constantly seek You and continuously praise Your mighty name. I humbly and silently pray with all my heart and thank You. Amen +
All wisdom comes from the LORD…
THE OTHER CHEEK (02-20-12)
Matthew 5:39
But I say to you, offer no resistance to one who is evil. When someone strikes you on your right cheek, turn the other one as well.
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Isn’t that painful? Being struck on both cheeks and still be able to smile after that.
Isn’t that foolish? Giving up something you own, and then give that same person more of yourself and still be able to shake his hands after that.
Yes, it may be painful and outright foolish. But if that would be the thing that can take away the wrath and anger from that person’s heart, then so be it.
If that is the only way so that evil will not anymore reign in his being, then I would accept the pain, the hurt, the suffering…
And then give them all back to the Lord fully knowing that I have done the right thing, fully knowing that anger and evilness has no space in my heart.
During Jesus’ time, these have become radical thinking that would change the way we relate with the people around us. We would not only be required to love those who love us, but also those who hates us, those who cause us pain, those who hurt us, those who think of evil against us.
We simply cannot defeat evil with evil. Evil can only be stopped through a genuine love given to us by God.
And yes, it is difficult to do, up to being impossible. But, nothing is impossible with the Lord. Everything can be done, if we allow ourselves to be guided by the wisdom and strength coming from Him.
Pray that you may have the strength to do so. Pray that God give you the strength to overcome the pain. And you know what? It’s a great feeling.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, teach me to forgive. Teach me to love those who hurt me, those who cause me pain. Only then can I say that I truly loved. Amen +
The Lord is kind and merciful.
But I say to you, offer no resistance to one who is evil. When someone strikes you on your right cheek, turn the other one as well.
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Isn’t that painful? Being struck on both cheeks and still be able to smile after that.
Isn’t that foolish? Giving up something you own, and then give that same person more of yourself and still be able to shake his hands after that.
Yes, it may be painful and outright foolish. But if that would be the thing that can take away the wrath and anger from that person’s heart, then so be it.
If that is the only way so that evil will not anymore reign in his being, then I would accept the pain, the hurt, the suffering…
And then give them all back to the Lord fully knowing that I have done the right thing, fully knowing that anger and evilness has no space in my heart.
During Jesus’ time, these have become radical thinking that would change the way we relate with the people around us. We would not only be required to love those who love us, but also those who hates us, those who cause us pain, those who hurt us, those who think of evil against us.
We simply cannot defeat evil with evil. Evil can only be stopped through a genuine love given to us by God.
And yes, it is difficult to do, up to being impossible. But, nothing is impossible with the Lord. Everything can be done, if we allow ourselves to be guided by the wisdom and strength coming from Him.
Pray that you may have the strength to do so. Pray that God give you the strength to overcome the pain. And you know what? It’s a great feeling.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, teach me to forgive. Teach me to love those who hurt me, those who cause me pain. Only then can I say that I truly loved. Amen +
The Lord is kind and merciful.
Sunday, February 19, 2012
CARRY ME THROUGH (02-19-12)
Hebrews 11:6
But without faith it is impossible to please him, for anyone who approaches God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him.
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I will have my daily prayer time. I would have my daily devotions. I would hear mass with my family every Sunday. And then, of course, eating the word of God by reading the Bible.
And I thought that was enough to say that I have faith in God.
That, I believe, until a crisis comes into my life. That is when I would realize that I still lack faith. And I felt really deeply ashamed to face God again in prayers for I found that my faith is still weak.
This happened to me… and this may happen to you.
For until we die, the devil would constantly bombard our minds with fears, doubts, worries and lies. And since our mind becomes muddled with lies and fears, instead of relying on God to solve our problems, we then trust only to ourselves. Then, because emotions are so subjective, we are left more confused and grasping for anything that offers hope.
Only the Lord Jesus offers hope. But it is not enough that we know God. We should show more than just belief. We would always be vulnerable to fall back to where we were before. That is why a constant turning to God in prayer is vital for healing.
Now that I realize that my faith is still weak, I have to pray more for strength and wisdom. For, in the end, hope is what we have even if we have nothing else. And Christ is our only hope, for in Him we have eternal life. He is our faith. And as I journey through life, I pray that my faith would see me through and carry me through life’s crisis.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, I do know that without faith it is impossible to please You, and whoever comes to You must believe in You. May my faith in You grow more and more. Amen +
I will praise your name for ever, Lord.
But without faith it is impossible to please him, for anyone who approaches God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him.
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I will have my daily prayer time. I would have my daily devotions. I would hear mass with my family every Sunday. And then, of course, eating the word of God by reading the Bible.
And I thought that was enough to say that I have faith in God.
That, I believe, until a crisis comes into my life. That is when I would realize that I still lack faith. And I felt really deeply ashamed to face God again in prayers for I found that my faith is still weak.
This happened to me… and this may happen to you.
For until we die, the devil would constantly bombard our minds with fears, doubts, worries and lies. And since our mind becomes muddled with lies and fears, instead of relying on God to solve our problems, we then trust only to ourselves. Then, because emotions are so subjective, we are left more confused and grasping for anything that offers hope.
Only the Lord Jesus offers hope. But it is not enough that we know God. We should show more than just belief. We would always be vulnerable to fall back to where we were before. That is why a constant turning to God in prayer is vital for healing.
Now that I realize that my faith is still weak, I have to pray more for strength and wisdom. For, in the end, hope is what we have even if we have nothing else. And Christ is our only hope, for in Him we have eternal life. He is our faith. And as I journey through life, I pray that my faith would see me through and carry me through life’s crisis.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, I do know that without faith it is impossible to please You, and whoever comes to You must believe in You. May my faith in You grow more and more. Amen +
I will praise your name for ever, Lord.
Saturday, February 18, 2012
SHAME ON ME (02-18-12)
Mark 8:38
“Whoever is ashamed of me and of my words in this faithless and sinful generation, the Son of Man will be ashamed of when he comes in his Father’s glory with the holy angels.”
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“You are stupid”, “fuck you”, “son of a bitch”, “shit!”
Let us be honest, at least once in our life, we have said any of these, either pertaining to a person, or because of something we experienced. But did you know what is worse than just saying these?
Worse is justifying to yourself that you have to say it to ease the tension, to ease the pain, to erase the fear… “Oh yes, it feels so good after that!” And so, tell me, did it make the other person feel better also?
How about saying these instead – “God bless you”, God forgives you”, “God loves you”… well, I can hear your mind speaking – “Oh-oh, here we go again, I cannot say those, I am ashamed”.
Oh yes, we have the “courage” to say those swear words, and then be ashamed of saying to or sharing the love of God with others. We would feel better when we utter those bad languages, but would feel ashamed telling others that God loves them.
But God would not strike you with lightning, don’t worry about that. He would not let the ground swallow you alive, though He can do that. No, He will not do something that can harm you…
…but He cannot promise the same in the afterlife. As You are ashamed of Him today, then He will be ashamed of you in the presence of God in Heaven. And do you know what that means? Oh, I know you do…
So tell me, are you still ashamed to share the Good News of salvation?
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, I am not ashamed of the Gospel. Give me the wisdom and strength to share the Good News to others. Amen +
Blessed the people the Lord has chosen to be his own.
“Whoever is ashamed of me and of my words in this faithless and sinful generation, the Son of Man will be ashamed of when he comes in his Father’s glory with the holy angels.”
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“You are stupid”, “fuck you”, “son of a bitch”, “shit!”
Let us be honest, at least once in our life, we have said any of these, either pertaining to a person, or because of something we experienced. But did you know what is worse than just saying these?
Worse is justifying to yourself that you have to say it to ease the tension, to ease the pain, to erase the fear… “Oh yes, it feels so good after that!” And so, tell me, did it make the other person feel better also?
How about saying these instead – “God bless you”, God forgives you”, “God loves you”… well, I can hear your mind speaking – “Oh-oh, here we go again, I cannot say those, I am ashamed”.
Oh yes, we have the “courage” to say those swear words, and then be ashamed of saying to or sharing the love of God with others. We would feel better when we utter those bad languages, but would feel ashamed telling others that God loves them.
But God would not strike you with lightning, don’t worry about that. He would not let the ground swallow you alive, though He can do that. No, He will not do something that can harm you…
…but He cannot promise the same in the afterlife. As You are ashamed of Him today, then He will be ashamed of you in the presence of God in Heaven. And do you know what that means? Oh, I know you do…
So tell me, are you still ashamed to share the Good News of salvation?
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, I am not ashamed of the Gospel. Give me the wisdom and strength to share the Good News to others. Amen +
Blessed the people the Lord has chosen to be his own.
LIFE IN COLORS (02-17-12)
Genesis 9:12-13
“This is the sign that I am giving for all ages to come, of the covenant between me and you and every living creature with you: I set my bow in the clouds to serve as a sign of the covenant between me and the earth.”
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When typhoon “Ondoy” visited Philippines and dumped a month’s worth of rain in Metro Manila and nearby provinces, a few remarked that it is the end of the world. Well, of course, by night, aside from floodings and some casualties, the world is still very much alive.
And by morning, most people would go by their normal lives, as if nothing had happened. Talks of being ready the next time pervades the air, but people are just hoping that the government is really sincere.
Yes, the “seers” are wrong. For God has already made a covenant “that never again shall all bodily creatures be destroyed by the waters of a flood; there shall not be another flood to devastate the earth.”
And that promise was sealed by the presence of the rainbow, a colorful creation brought about by sunray hitting the raindrops in the air, creating a prism of colorful bow.
And so the promise was made not only for the world but also for each one of us. After a “storm” in our life that may have devastated us, that may have caused pain and suffering in our life… God is telling us that He is there for us, no matter what. And His rainbow of life is there to remind us of this promise. A colorful life awaits us if we just believe in Him.
So the next time a typhoon would visit you, literally or figuratively, just allow it to pour. Let it’s wind hit you, but never allow it to knock you down. Let it’s the rain pour upon you, but never let it drown you.
And after the storm, a life so colorful is waiting. For that is what God has promised us – storm will come and go, but it will never harm us again.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, give me a life so colorful and so wonderful. Amen +
From heaven the Lord looks down on the earth.
“This is the sign that I am giving for all ages to come, of the covenant between me and you and every living creature with you: I set my bow in the clouds to serve as a sign of the covenant between me and the earth.”
--------------------------------------------------------------
When typhoon “Ondoy” visited Philippines and dumped a month’s worth of rain in Metro Manila and nearby provinces, a few remarked that it is the end of the world. Well, of course, by night, aside from floodings and some casualties, the world is still very much alive.
And by morning, most people would go by their normal lives, as if nothing had happened. Talks of being ready the next time pervades the air, but people are just hoping that the government is really sincere.
Yes, the “seers” are wrong. For God has already made a covenant “that never again shall all bodily creatures be destroyed by the waters of a flood; there shall not be another flood to devastate the earth.”
And that promise was sealed by the presence of the rainbow, a colorful creation brought about by sunray hitting the raindrops in the air, creating a prism of colorful bow.
And so the promise was made not only for the world but also for each one of us. After a “storm” in our life that may have devastated us, that may have caused pain and suffering in our life… God is telling us that He is there for us, no matter what. And His rainbow of life is there to remind us of this promise. A colorful life awaits us if we just believe in Him.
So the next time a typhoon would visit you, literally or figuratively, just allow it to pour. Let it’s wind hit you, but never allow it to knock you down. Let it’s the rain pour upon you, but never let it drown you.
And after the storm, a life so colorful is waiting. For that is what God has promised us – storm will come and go, but it will never harm us again.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, give me a life so colorful and so wonderful. Amen +
From heaven the Lord looks down on the earth.
Thursday, February 16, 2012
SEE LIFE FULLY (02-16-12)
Mark 8:23
“Do you see anything?”
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I am nearsighted so I have to wear eyeglasses. Without them, I could not recognize the face of a person until he is about 6 feet from me, or better yet, until we are face-to-face. That is why in high school, when I try not to wear my eyeglasses, I am often called a snub. If only they understood why.
We still live with partial visions about God. And sometimes, the imperfections in our understanding of God make us anxious.
We feel that God expects more of us than that. We feel that we should have answers to every conceivable question, that we should never experience doubts, that we should have clarity at all times.
We are like the blind man in today’s gospel. We seek the truth and yet we do not open our hearts to it. At first, he sees nothing, but with the Lord’s touch, he was able to see clearly.
He was able to see physically… and spiritually, for he opened not only his eyes to the Lord, but also his heart.
As we begin to see God as loving, we come to believe that we are lovable.
As we begin to see that God wants us live more fully, we come to believe that we are precious and valuable. Let Him touch your heart and see everything distinctly.
Open your hearts, and see Him. See Him fully. Know Him fully. Understand Him fully. Believe in Him fully. And see life fully, for in this imperfect world, a perfect life can only be achieved through Him.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, I long for you to appear in my life. Seeing you changes everything because I know that when I see you, I am changed. Amen +
I will call upon the name of the LORD.
“Do you see anything?”
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I am nearsighted so I have to wear eyeglasses. Without them, I could not recognize the face of a person until he is about 6 feet from me, or better yet, until we are face-to-face. That is why in high school, when I try not to wear my eyeglasses, I am often called a snub. If only they understood why.
We still live with partial visions about God. And sometimes, the imperfections in our understanding of God make us anxious.
We feel that God expects more of us than that. We feel that we should have answers to every conceivable question, that we should never experience doubts, that we should have clarity at all times.
We are like the blind man in today’s gospel. We seek the truth and yet we do not open our hearts to it. At first, he sees nothing, but with the Lord’s touch, he was able to see clearly.
He was able to see physically… and spiritually, for he opened not only his eyes to the Lord, but also his heart.
As we begin to see God as loving, we come to believe that we are lovable.
As we begin to see that God wants us live more fully, we come to believe that we are precious and valuable. Let Him touch your heart and see everything distinctly.
Open your hearts, and see Him. See Him fully. Know Him fully. Understand Him fully. Believe in Him fully. And see life fully, for in this imperfect world, a perfect life can only be achieved through Him.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, I long for you to appear in my life. Seeing you changes everything because I know that when I see you, I am changed. Amen +
I will call upon the name of the LORD.
Wednesday, February 15, 2012
TRUE UNDERSTANDING (02-15-12)
Mark 8:17
“Do you not yet understand or comprehend? Are your hearts hardened?”
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You may have heard the song: “Too many questions, but the answers are so few”. Yes, going through life, we question life and what is happening in our life almost every day. But the answer is very hard to come by.
We ask and ask and ask… but still we cannot understand, we cannot comprehend. But is it really the case?
Have we realized that we may already have the answer but we just cannot accept it and so we seek for more? And the more we ask, the more we become restless. We cannot think right, our mind wanders around, our body stiffens, negatively affecting how we live life.
Start by questioning with understanding. Question all you have. Question all you can. But stop questioning why the questions are not being answered. Give them up to God, for Him to respond in His time, not ours.
We can't always stop asking, but our heart’s attitude should always be of “praying without ceasing”.
Continue to pray without ceasing. Continue to ask for everything. Continue to give Him back all the things He has given. And when true understanding of His will sets in, we would not ask questions anymore. We would just enjoy life as it is.
That is what we want. And yes, that is what He wants.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, let me understand what you want my life to be. May I not question your plans and instead be a faithful participant in Your works. Amen +
The Lord will bless his people with peace.
“Do you not yet understand or comprehend? Are your hearts hardened?”
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You may have heard the song: “Too many questions, but the answers are so few”. Yes, going through life, we question life and what is happening in our life almost every day. But the answer is very hard to come by.
We ask and ask and ask… but still we cannot understand, we cannot comprehend. But is it really the case?
Have we realized that we may already have the answer but we just cannot accept it and so we seek for more? And the more we ask, the more we become restless. We cannot think right, our mind wanders around, our body stiffens, negatively affecting how we live life.
Start by questioning with understanding. Question all you have. Question all you can. But stop questioning why the questions are not being answered. Give them up to God, for Him to respond in His time, not ours.
We can't always stop asking, but our heart’s attitude should always be of “praying without ceasing”.
Continue to pray without ceasing. Continue to ask for everything. Continue to give Him back all the things He has given. And when true understanding of His will sets in, we would not ask questions anymore. We would just enjoy life as it is.
That is what we want. And yes, that is what He wants.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, let me understand what you want my life to be. May I not question your plans and instead be a faithful participant in Your works. Amen +
The Lord will bless his people with peace.
Tuesday, February 14, 2012
HE FIRST LOVED US (02-14-12)
1 John 4:19
We love because he first loved us.
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Love is in the air.
Yet, for most of us, love is still an elusive dream…
… but we can start with these.
If we wish to be loved, we must first give love.
If we wish to be forgiven, we must also forgive.
If we want strong marriages, we must be loyal and faithful to our spouses.
If we wish to reap the rewards of our Heavenly Father's love, we must truly love all His people.
And then, do something difficult to do…
Jesus is also clear when He says “love your enemies” as well.
For true love is unconditional and impartial. It is tested and proven by encounters with those who are difficult to love. Where true love prevails, in there no enemies are found.
Love God…
Love your family…
Love others…
Love your enemies…
PRAY, BLESS, LOVE… not just today, but everyday of your life.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, may I love You in all things and above all things. Place in my heart a desire to please You and fill my mind with thoughts of Your love, love so true, love so pure, love so eternal. Amen +
Offer to God a sacrifice of praise.
We love because he first loved us.
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Love is in the air.
Yet, for most of us, love is still an elusive dream…
… but we can start with these.
If we wish to be loved, we must first give love.
If we wish to be forgiven, we must also forgive.
If we want strong marriages, we must be loyal and faithful to our spouses.
If we wish to reap the rewards of our Heavenly Father's love, we must truly love all His people.
And then, do something difficult to do…
Jesus is also clear when He says “love your enemies” as well.
For true love is unconditional and impartial. It is tested and proven by encounters with those who are difficult to love. Where true love prevails, in there no enemies are found.
Love God…
Love your family…
Love others…
Love your enemies…
PRAY, BLESS, LOVE… not just today, but everyday of your life.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, may I love You in all things and above all things. Place in my heart a desire to please You and fill my mind with thoughts of Your love, love so true, love so pure, love so eternal. Amen +
Offer to God a sacrifice of praise.
Monday, February 13, 2012
THROW IT AWAY (02-13-12)
Matthew 5:29
If your right eye causes you to sin, tear it out and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one of your members than to have your whole body thrown into Gehenna.
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I have been guilty as charged. As a teenager, I would go through those graphic, girly magazines. And as they would say, and as I would believe – that because I am in the “coming of age”, this is normal. And so, the act after this, the act of satisfying one’s self, is also normal.
As I have thought… as many of us have thought.
But this would go on… like an addiction. The internet revolution would provide these images faster – at a touch of a button. And those things that you would do before seldom, you can now do it almost at a whim for the temptation has multiplied itself a thousand times.
I tried to control the urge… the desire. But it cannot be done alone. I have to seek the help of a supreme being. I have to seek the help of God. For God will not only “tear out your eye”, but He can also forgive You for all things you have done.
You can stop all of these. You can put all the controls in your computer. Or you can even stop using it altogether. But, if you do not give them up to God, your sins will not be forgiven.
Cast them out. Take them out. Throw them out away, all those things that can make you lose sight of heaven. Remember, the devil will not manifest itself to us like a beast, but looking like a playboy centerfold or a 1,000-peso bill on the floor. Resist temptation and you will be able to keep your hands and eyes for good.
And begin to pray each day, speaking with Jesus as you would with a friend.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, I give my body to your care. Let me never sin against the Spirit by any impure actions against the virtue of purity. Amen +
Blessed are they who follow the law of the Lord!
If your right eye causes you to sin, tear it out and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one of your members than to have your whole body thrown into Gehenna.
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I have been guilty as charged. As a teenager, I would go through those graphic, girly magazines. And as they would say, and as I would believe – that because I am in the “coming of age”, this is normal. And so, the act after this, the act of satisfying one’s self, is also normal.
As I have thought… as many of us have thought.
But this would go on… like an addiction. The internet revolution would provide these images faster – at a touch of a button. And those things that you would do before seldom, you can now do it almost at a whim for the temptation has multiplied itself a thousand times.
I tried to control the urge… the desire. But it cannot be done alone. I have to seek the help of a supreme being. I have to seek the help of God. For God will not only “tear out your eye”, but He can also forgive You for all things you have done.
You can stop all of these. You can put all the controls in your computer. Or you can even stop using it altogether. But, if you do not give them up to God, your sins will not be forgiven.
Cast them out. Take them out. Throw them out away, all those things that can make you lose sight of heaven. Remember, the devil will not manifest itself to us like a beast, but looking like a playboy centerfold or a 1,000-peso bill on the floor. Resist temptation and you will be able to keep your hands and eyes for good.
And begin to pray each day, speaking with Jesus as you would with a friend.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, I give my body to your care. Let me never sin against the Spirit by any impure actions against the virtue of purity. Amen +
Blessed are they who follow the law of the Lord!
Sunday, February 12, 2012
ONLY ME TO BLAME (02-12-12)
Genesis 3:12
The man replied, “The woman whom you put here with me she gave me fruit from the tree, and so I ate it.”
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The blaming game… “It is not me, it his him who caused it.”
“Why are you punishing me? It was her who gave it to me. She told me that it is okay to use it. So, I used it.”
“He did it first, so I can do it also. If he can, so can I.”
The blaming game… Adam and Eve did it.
They were banished from the Garden, not only because they have eaten from the forbidden tree. They were banished because instead of accepting their fault, they have put the blame on others.
That instead of asking for forgiveness, they tried to clean up their act by not accepting their wrong doing, believing that they did it because someone pushed them or caused them to do it – “so not my fault.”
The blaming game… we are all doing it.
Yes, it could be human nature. But we should also realize that blaming others is also an act of cowardice and pride. We cannot accept that we are wrong because we are afraid on what other people would say. We cannot accept it because we still feel that we are clean, that we are perfect.
Stop the blaming game and start asking for forgiveness. Talk to God and ask Him to forgive you and the person who caused you to do wrong. And you can be sure that God will not blame you for it. Instead, He will love you more and bless you.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, forgive me of my sins. It is me to be blamed and me alone. And give me the strength to forgive also. Amen +
The Lord hears the cry of the poor.
The man replied, “The woman whom you put here with me she gave me fruit from the tree, and so I ate it.”
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The blaming game… “It is not me, it his him who caused it.”
“Why are you punishing me? It was her who gave it to me. She told me that it is okay to use it. So, I used it.”
“He did it first, so I can do it also. If he can, so can I.”
The blaming game… Adam and Eve did it.
They were banished from the Garden, not only because they have eaten from the forbidden tree. They were banished because instead of accepting their fault, they have put the blame on others.
That instead of asking for forgiveness, they tried to clean up their act by not accepting their wrong doing, believing that they did it because someone pushed them or caused them to do it – “so not my fault.”
The blaming game… we are all doing it.
Yes, it could be human nature. But we should also realize that blaming others is also an act of cowardice and pride. We cannot accept that we are wrong because we are afraid on what other people would say. We cannot accept it because we still feel that we are clean, that we are perfect.
Stop the blaming game and start asking for forgiveness. Talk to God and ask Him to forgive you and the person who caused you to do wrong. And you can be sure that God will not blame you for it. Instead, He will love you more and bless you.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, forgive me of my sins. It is me to be blamed and me alone. And give me the strength to forgive also. Amen +
The Lord hears the cry of the poor.
CALM MY SOUL (02-11-12)
Genesis 3:1
Now the serpent was the most cunning of all the animals that the LORD God had made.
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Why is it that every time things are going well, it will suddenly turn sour because of something you did – whether unexpectedly or intentional.
Why is it that when you think everything is going for the better, it will suddenly go downhill because of some things you would hear – and believe – though it is baseless and not true.
Why is it that when you think it is perfect, then suddenly everything would go upside-down because you forgot to cling to God’s word and promise.
Now I understand.
It is because the devil is very much around us. It is waiting to snatch our soul – putting fears, doubts, suspicion, distrust, disbelief and hesitation in our heart. And these would finally break us until we are totally controlled by it – totally lost, astrayed and nowhere to be found.
Now, I know what to do.
If we will give our life to Jesus, He will take care of all our problems. But we must ask in faith without doubting for when we doubt we are like a wave of the sea driven in all directions and tossed about.
And we have to continue believing. We have to continue to have that faith in our Lord. When we believe the truth in God's Word we find release from the curses on us. We have a peace, joy, satisfaction and hope. God's Word is truth that I shall believe to find the relief I need.
Now I know.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, remove the doubts and fears in my heart. Your Word is the truth. Your Word is the relief that will calm my soul. Amen +
The Lord hears the cry of the poor.
Now the serpent was the most cunning of all the animals that the LORD God had made.
-----------------------------------------------------
Why is it that every time things are going well, it will suddenly turn sour because of something you did – whether unexpectedly or intentional.
Why is it that when you think everything is going for the better, it will suddenly go downhill because of some things you would hear – and believe – though it is baseless and not true.
Why is it that when you think it is perfect, then suddenly everything would go upside-down because you forgot to cling to God’s word and promise.
Now I understand.
It is because the devil is very much around us. It is waiting to snatch our soul – putting fears, doubts, suspicion, distrust, disbelief and hesitation in our heart. And these would finally break us until we are totally controlled by it – totally lost, astrayed and nowhere to be found.
Now, I know what to do.
If we will give our life to Jesus, He will take care of all our problems. But we must ask in faith without doubting for when we doubt we are like a wave of the sea driven in all directions and tossed about.
And we have to continue believing. We have to continue to have that faith in our Lord. When we believe the truth in God's Word we find release from the curses on us. We have a peace, joy, satisfaction and hope. God's Word is truth that I shall believe to find the relief I need.
Now I know.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, remove the doubts and fears in my heart. Your Word is the truth. Your Word is the relief that will calm my soul. Amen +
The Lord hears the cry of the poor.
Friday, February 10, 2012
HEAVENLY BANQUET (02-10-12)
Mark 7:28
“Lord, even the dogs under the table eat the children’s scraps.”
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Momo will wait patiently for us to finish our dinner, eating food scraps that I would throw her way. She knows that afterwards, she will also have her share to enjoy and fill her hungry stomach. And once I stand up, she would wiggle her tail, knowing fully that food will be served for her any time now.
Momo is our pet dog. And come lunch or dinner time, she knows she only has to wait and the food will come. She knows that the blessing from God is not only for people but also to the smallest creature here on earth for everyone has been created by God.
The gospel today talks about the great exchanges of thoughts and principles between Jesus and a non-Jewish woman. Being a non-Jewish, she knows that she should not be expecting any help from a Jew like Jesus. And Jesus would frankly tell her that – “For it is not right to take the food of the children and throw it to the dogs”. Meaning, His main purpose is to share the Good News to the people of Israel.
But the woman would not surrender. She may be non-Jewish, but she knows that she is also God’s creation. Though she is called a “dog”, she still has the right to be healed and share in the mercy and grace of God. And these “scraps she is willing to eat” just to make her child well again.
It is really fortunate to know that, nowadays, God is really willing to share with us all his blessings and Good News of salvation. But still, most of us would not even heed that call. And we would whine and complain why this pain and suffering is happening to us.
Start with the scrap – taste it first and enjoy it. And sooner or later, you will learn to eat the good stuff as you enjoy life with the Lord. And finally, the whole banquet will be yours to enjoy fully inn Heaven.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, let me eat your Word. May it provide me the needed spiritual fullness as I enjoy the heavenly banquet with You. Amen +
Blessed are those who fear the Lord.
“Lord, even the dogs under the table eat the children’s scraps.”
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Momo will wait patiently for us to finish our dinner, eating food scraps that I would throw her way. She knows that afterwards, she will also have her share to enjoy and fill her hungry stomach. And once I stand up, she would wiggle her tail, knowing fully that food will be served for her any time now.
Momo is our pet dog. And come lunch or dinner time, she knows she only has to wait and the food will come. She knows that the blessing from God is not only for people but also to the smallest creature here on earth for everyone has been created by God.
The gospel today talks about the great exchanges of thoughts and principles between Jesus and a non-Jewish woman. Being a non-Jewish, she knows that she should not be expecting any help from a Jew like Jesus. And Jesus would frankly tell her that – “For it is not right to take the food of the children and throw it to the dogs”. Meaning, His main purpose is to share the Good News to the people of Israel.
But the woman would not surrender. She may be non-Jewish, but she knows that she is also God’s creation. Though she is called a “dog”, she still has the right to be healed and share in the mercy and grace of God. And these “scraps she is willing to eat” just to make her child well again.
It is really fortunate to know that, nowadays, God is really willing to share with us all his blessings and Good News of salvation. But still, most of us would not even heed that call. And we would whine and complain why this pain and suffering is happening to us.
Start with the scrap – taste it first and enjoy it. And sooner or later, you will learn to eat the good stuff as you enjoy life with the Lord. And finally, the whole banquet will be yours to enjoy fully inn Heaven.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, let me eat your Word. May it provide me the needed spiritual fullness as I enjoy the heavenly banquet with You. Amen +
Blessed are those who fear the Lord.
ONLY GOOD THINGS (02-09-12)
Mark 7:15
“Nothing that enters one from outside can defile that person; but the things that come out from within are what defile.”
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What we eat today may harm us. Saturated fats can cause high blood pressure that can lead to stroke or heart attack. Then there are the artificial flavorings that can cause cancer. And of course, the tar and nicotine from cigarettes have been proven to kill millions of people annually. All these things, when absorbed by the body, could have harmful effects someday.
But if these things can defile your body or kill you, the things that come out of it can defile others and ourselves.
What you say can either make or break you, and the person you are talking to. Ugly thoughts, ugly words – they can bring about decay in our hearts that can lead to conflict, hatred and lost of trust.
Devastating criticism, gossip, intrigue and machination are denounced in the Scriptures as the greatest sins after idolatry, because they are all violence against our brother, the image of God.
They are ways of sinning with the tongue.
What fills the heart is spoken by the tongue: from a good heart, good words are born, and no gossip stems from it against any person.
If we let our speech be molded according to the pattern of Sacred Scripture, then we will be like a healthy tree bearing good fruit for the uplifting of the Body of Christ.
Let only good things come out from your mouth – blessing, glorifying, appreciating, encouraging words - so you may receive the same.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, teach us not return evil for evil or insult for insult. We should return a blessing instead. Teach us to keep our tongue from evil and our lips from uttering deceit. Amen +
O bless the Lord, my soul!
“Nothing that enters one from outside can defile that person; but the things that come out from within are what defile.”
-------------------------------------------------------------
What we eat today may harm us. Saturated fats can cause high blood pressure that can lead to stroke or heart attack. Then there are the artificial flavorings that can cause cancer. And of course, the tar and nicotine from cigarettes have been proven to kill millions of people annually. All these things, when absorbed by the body, could have harmful effects someday.
But if these things can defile your body or kill you, the things that come out of it can defile others and ourselves.
What you say can either make or break you, and the person you are talking to. Ugly thoughts, ugly words – they can bring about decay in our hearts that can lead to conflict, hatred and lost of trust.
Devastating criticism, gossip, intrigue and machination are denounced in the Scriptures as the greatest sins after idolatry, because they are all violence against our brother, the image of God.
They are ways of sinning with the tongue.
What fills the heart is spoken by the tongue: from a good heart, good words are born, and no gossip stems from it against any person.
If we let our speech be molded according to the pattern of Sacred Scripture, then we will be like a healthy tree bearing good fruit for the uplifting of the Body of Christ.
Let only good things come out from your mouth – blessing, glorifying, appreciating, encouraging words - so you may receive the same.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, teach us not return evil for evil or insult for insult. We should return a blessing instead. Teach us to keep our tongue from evil and our lips from uttering deceit. Amen +
O bless the Lord, my soul!
Wednesday, February 8, 2012
GREATNESS OF THINGS (02-08-12)
Genesis 2:3
So God blessed the seventh day and made it holy, because on it he rested from all the work he had done in creation.
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Our house was due for repainting. The color has already faded and dirt and scratches can already be distinctly seen. And, I decided to do it myself.
I personally bought the things needed. I then patched up the scratches and sanded away the dirt the accumulated. I personally mixed the paint. And then, the hard part – the actual painting. It was difficult at first as the paint starts to drop on my hands, arms and face. But, once I was able to get the hang of it, the job started to progress faster.
And I finished the job in three days. And so on the last day, I sat on a chair and looked at my “masterpiece”. Knowing that you have done a magnificent job is already a rest in itself. You found rest within you knowing that you have done your best.
And so when God rested on the seventh day, it doesn’t really mean that He “laid down on a bed and sleep”. It doesn’t mean that He stopped what He is doing and closed His eyes.
On His rest, He stepped back and looked at His Creation and admired His work. He looked at His “masterpiece” and become glad. He appreciated the beauty of all things He has done, that He found rest in Himself knowing that He has done a great thing for the one He loves – you and me.
And so, He also enjoins each and every one of us to have the same rest. At least once a week, let us step back from all the things that we do and start looking at the greatness of things that God has done for us.
And have that rest in your heart knowing that God is with us forever and will continually create for us and for our needs.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, may I appreciate Your Creation more. I fully know that those were created for me whom You truly love. Amen +
O Lord, our God, how wonderful your name in all the earth!
So God blessed the seventh day and made it holy, because on it he rested from all the work he had done in creation.
----------------------------------------------------
Our house was due for repainting. The color has already faded and dirt and scratches can already be distinctly seen. And, I decided to do it myself.
I personally bought the things needed. I then patched up the scratches and sanded away the dirt the accumulated. I personally mixed the paint. And then, the hard part – the actual painting. It was difficult at first as the paint starts to drop on my hands, arms and face. But, once I was able to get the hang of it, the job started to progress faster.
And I finished the job in three days. And so on the last day, I sat on a chair and looked at my “masterpiece”. Knowing that you have done a magnificent job is already a rest in itself. You found rest within you knowing that you have done your best.
And so when God rested on the seventh day, it doesn’t really mean that He “laid down on a bed and sleep”. It doesn’t mean that He stopped what He is doing and closed His eyes.
On His rest, He stepped back and looked at His Creation and admired His work. He looked at His “masterpiece” and become glad. He appreciated the beauty of all things He has done, that He found rest in Himself knowing that He has done a great thing for the one He loves – you and me.
And so, He also enjoins each and every one of us to have the same rest. At least once a week, let us step back from all the things that we do and start looking at the greatness of things that God has done for us.
And have that rest in your heart knowing that God is with us forever and will continually create for us and for our needs.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, may I appreciate Your Creation more. I fully know that those were created for me whom You truly love. Amen +
O Lord, our God, how wonderful your name in all the earth!
Tuesday, February 7, 2012
LET THERE BE LIGHT (02-07-12)
Luke 18:7
Then God said, “Let there be light,” and there was light. God saw how good the light was.
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We normally work on daytime and take a rest on night time. And during ancient times, this becomes more important since human beings cannot work and see well in darkness. We would need light on order for us to function well. We need light so we can accomplish what we need to do.
And God was no different. When He started with the Creation, He saw “the earth was a formless wasteland, and darkness covered the abyss”. And He despised darkness and so what was the first thing He did?
He let light come to be.
With light, He was able to appreciate the beauty of things that He created afterwards. But of course, he also created “night” for he knows that men would also need to rest.
But with the advent of artificial lighting, man learned to extend their working hours beyond night time. Now, we can even work through the night and make day time as our rest time. And there is nothing wrong with that as long as we take time during our rest time to pray to, worship and glorify Him.
He has given us all the time to work for ourselves, but let us not forget that He also created “night” in order for us to take rest and have the time to thank Him for all the things and the blessings He has given throughout the day.
Let there be light. May His light come into us. May His light guide us in all our undertakings and plans. And when that time has come to take a rest, may we grab that opportunity to appreciate all the things this life has offered. And may that rest be a peaceful one with Him.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, let there be light in my life. May we appreciate also the value of rest and being at peace with You. Amen +
May the Lord be glad in his works.
Then God said, “Let there be light,” and there was light. God saw how good the light was.
------------------------------------------------------------
We normally work on daytime and take a rest on night time. And during ancient times, this becomes more important since human beings cannot work and see well in darkness. We would need light on order for us to function well. We need light so we can accomplish what we need to do.
And God was no different. When He started with the Creation, He saw “the earth was a formless wasteland, and darkness covered the abyss”. And He despised darkness and so what was the first thing He did?
He let light come to be.
With light, He was able to appreciate the beauty of things that He created afterwards. But of course, he also created “night” for he knows that men would also need to rest.
But with the advent of artificial lighting, man learned to extend their working hours beyond night time. Now, we can even work through the night and make day time as our rest time. And there is nothing wrong with that as long as we take time during our rest time to pray to, worship and glorify Him.
He has given us all the time to work for ourselves, but let us not forget that He also created “night” in order for us to take rest and have the time to thank Him for all the things and the blessings He has given throughout the day.
Let there be light. May His light come into us. May His light guide us in all our undertakings and plans. And when that time has come to take a rest, may we grab that opportunity to appreciate all the things this life has offered. And may that rest be a peaceful one with Him.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, let there be light in my life. May we appreciate also the value of rest and being at peace with You. Amen +
May the Lord be glad in his works.
Monday, February 6, 2012
SALT AND LIGHT (02-06-12)
Matthew 5:16
“Just so, your light must shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your heavenly Father.”
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I saw a light on top of a building. Actually, it was on top of the radio antenna. And so I asked my father why do they have to put that beacon light on that location.
He responded that it is for safety. So that low-flying aircrafts like small planes and helicopters would recognize the building and prevent crashing on them. A neat idea, as I thought.
Imagine a small light preventing people from perishing.
Every Christian are called to be the light of the world. Not only the priests, or the nuns or the pastors or the lay ministers.
Everyone, without exemption!
So the next time you say, “I don’t have to help them, let those with powers and money and influence help them”, then you are wrong. You can help not only by extending money. You can help by ministering on them. You can help by telling them about the salvation brought by the Lord.
You can help by being a light to them, so they would not perish but have an eternal life with God in Heaven.
Every good deeds you do in helping others cope up with their life, is a beacon of light that would reach heaven. Do not let go of that light. Make it shine more so more people would be attracted to it and have their lives change for the better.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, let me be a light for others. Use me so that others may see that same light of salvation. Amen +
The just man is a light in darkness to the upright.
“Just so, your light must shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your heavenly Father.”
-----------------------------------------------------------
I saw a light on top of a building. Actually, it was on top of the radio antenna. And so I asked my father why do they have to put that beacon light on that location.
He responded that it is for safety. So that low-flying aircrafts like small planes and helicopters would recognize the building and prevent crashing on them. A neat idea, as I thought.
Imagine a small light preventing people from perishing.
Every Christian are called to be the light of the world. Not only the priests, or the nuns or the pastors or the lay ministers.
Everyone, without exemption!
So the next time you say, “I don’t have to help them, let those with powers and money and influence help them”, then you are wrong. You can help not only by extending money. You can help by ministering on them. You can help by telling them about the salvation brought by the Lord.
You can help by being a light to them, so they would not perish but have an eternal life with God in Heaven.
Every good deeds you do in helping others cope up with their life, is a beacon of light that would reach heaven. Do not let go of that light. Make it shine more so more people would be attracted to it and have their lives change for the better.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, let me be a light for others. Use me so that others may see that same light of salvation. Amen +
The just man is a light in darkness to the upright.
Sunday, February 5, 2012
REST A WHILE (02-05-12)
Mark 6:31
“Come away by yourselves to a deserted place and rest a while.”
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My head is aching.
My body is in pain.
I cannot breathe.
My heart beats fast up to a point of exploding.
I want to scream… I want to hurt myself…
…but there is a better way.
I knelt in prayers and talked to God.
I gave Him all the pain, all the aches, all the suffering. I asked for forgiveness for myself and for all those whom I love. I asked Him to give me the rest He promises.
I asked Him to put my heart at peace.
I am still in pain but not as painful as before. And in time, God will take them all away and allow my being to be at rest with Him.
It is really great, that once in a while, you retreat from this life, and seek rest for a while. A moment of rest with God, totally at peace with Him.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, give me rest. Amen +
The Lord is my shepherd; there is nothing I shall want.
“Come away by yourselves to a deserted place and rest a while.”
-----------------------------------------------------------
My head is aching.
My body is in pain.
I cannot breathe.
My heart beats fast up to a point of exploding.
I want to scream… I want to hurt myself…
…but there is a better way.
I knelt in prayers and talked to God.
I gave Him all the pain, all the aches, all the suffering. I asked for forgiveness for myself and for all those whom I love. I asked Him to give me the rest He promises.
I asked Him to put my heart at peace.
I am still in pain but not as painful as before. And in time, God will take them all away and allow my being to be at rest with Him.
It is really great, that once in a while, you retreat from this life, and seek rest for a while. A moment of rest with God, totally at peace with Him.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, give me rest. Amen +
The Lord is my shepherd; there is nothing I shall want.
NOW AND FOREVER (02-04-12)
Hebrews 13:8
Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.
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I am asking myself, why is it during the early years (meaning the very early years), a lot of martyrs and lay people are being canonized as saints. Is it because God is closer to people back then? Like when God could even manifest or show Himself to the prophets and the people He loves.
And why is it now, when the world’s population has grown, we would seldom see any martyrs or people worthy of being a saint. It is because God is distancing Himself already from us? Or is it the other way around?
We are now living in the “end times”. Wars, famines, disasters, false prophets – Jesus has clearly prophesized that these are the signs of the coming of the end. But, no one really knows when.
And so, Satan and his minions are really very busy (double time and overtime) to snatch as much soul as possible away from God… away from Heaven. It is allowing Satan to come to us that is the problem.
God is Omniscient and knows all things. Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today and tomorrow. He gives the same mercy and forgiveness that He promised through Salvation.
And it us who try to disregard this truth. It is us who try to run away from Him and the truth. It is us who tries to hide from Him and the truth. And it is us who are having the change of heart simply because we allow Satan to tempt us, and harden our hearts against the truth.
Pray to God… we need more of them as Satan bombards us endlessly – day and night. Pray to Him… for only through prayers can our hearts be soften and finally allow God to enter and change us permanently and be worthy of heaven. For we are all saints and we all belong to God.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, let me believe in the Truth and to You alone. Clean and soften my heart so I can serve You well now and forever. Amen +
The Lord is my light and my salvation.
Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.
---------------------------------------------------------------
I am asking myself, why is it during the early years (meaning the very early years), a lot of martyrs and lay people are being canonized as saints. Is it because God is closer to people back then? Like when God could even manifest or show Himself to the prophets and the people He loves.
And why is it now, when the world’s population has grown, we would seldom see any martyrs or people worthy of being a saint. It is because God is distancing Himself already from us? Or is it the other way around?
We are now living in the “end times”. Wars, famines, disasters, false prophets – Jesus has clearly prophesized that these are the signs of the coming of the end. But, no one really knows when.
And so, Satan and his minions are really very busy (double time and overtime) to snatch as much soul as possible away from God… away from Heaven. It is allowing Satan to come to us that is the problem.
God is Omniscient and knows all things. Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today and tomorrow. He gives the same mercy and forgiveness that He promised through Salvation.
And it us who try to disregard this truth. It is us who try to run away from Him and the truth. It is us who tries to hide from Him and the truth. And it is us who are having the change of heart simply because we allow Satan to tempt us, and harden our hearts against the truth.
Pray to God… we need more of them as Satan bombards us endlessly – day and night. Pray to Him… for only through prayers can our hearts be soften and finally allow God to enter and change us permanently and be worthy of heaven. For we are all saints and we all belong to God.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, let me believe in the Truth and to You alone. Clean and soften my heart so I can serve You well now and forever. Amen +
The Lord is my light and my salvation.
Friday, February 3, 2012
ACCEPT HIS WORD (02-03-12)
Mark 6:11
“Whatever place does not welcome you or listen to you, leave there and shake the dust off your feet in testimony against them.”
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A man boarded the bus I was riding going to the office. Suddenly, he stood up. Some of us thought he was a robber. But then, he took out, not a gun, but a Bible. He then started preaching.
I then looked around at the reactions of people around me. One lady got her phone and started texting. Another man looked far away as if trying to focus his attention to something else. A young girl, though, looking at the man, must have been at lost to what he is saying. Her mother is actually busy talking with a friend. And some just closed their eyes.
But the man still went on with his preaching. When he finished, he distributed an envelope for donation. The man beside me remarked, “sabi na nga ba (what I was thinking is right)”.
Well, it could be about the money. Or the money may be going to something good. We can give or not, it is our choice. But judging the person as being there just for the money is something not right.
There is nothing wrong listening to the Word of God being preached. There is nothing wrong absorbing what is right and applies that in our lives.
There is nothing wrong welcoming His word into our hearts as we start or end our day. If is about God, there is really nothing wrong about it.
When the man got off the bus, the conductor opened the TV in the bus and tuned in to a telenovela. People started to become attentive. Some opened their eyes and watched.
You can see them giggling and enjoying the show.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, may we listen to your Word. It is not enough that we believe in You. We must also accept Your Word in our hearts. Amen +
Great is the LORD and wholly to be praised…
“Whatever place does not welcome you or listen to you, leave there and shake the dust off your feet in testimony against them.”
-------------------------------------------------------------
A man boarded the bus I was riding going to the office. Suddenly, he stood up. Some of us thought he was a robber. But then, he took out, not a gun, but a Bible. He then started preaching.
I then looked around at the reactions of people around me. One lady got her phone and started texting. Another man looked far away as if trying to focus his attention to something else. A young girl, though, looking at the man, must have been at lost to what he is saying. Her mother is actually busy talking with a friend. And some just closed their eyes.
But the man still went on with his preaching. When he finished, he distributed an envelope for donation. The man beside me remarked, “sabi na nga ba (what I was thinking is right)”.
Well, it could be about the money. Or the money may be going to something good. We can give or not, it is our choice. But judging the person as being there just for the money is something not right.
There is nothing wrong listening to the Word of God being preached. There is nothing wrong absorbing what is right and applies that in our lives.
There is nothing wrong welcoming His word into our hearts as we start or end our day. If is about God, there is really nothing wrong about it.
When the man got off the bus, the conductor opened the TV in the bus and tuned in to a telenovela. People started to become attentive. Some opened their eyes and watched.
You can see them giggling and enjoying the show.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, may we listen to your Word. It is not enough that we believe in You. We must also accept Your Word in our hearts. Amen +
Great is the LORD and wholly to be praised…
SUSTAIN ME, LORD (02-02-12)
Luke 2:35
Simeon blessed them and said to Mary his mother, “…and you yourself a sword will pierce so that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.”
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What will you do or feel, if one day, a doctor will approach you and tell you that your son or daughter is dying of cancer and it is only a matter of time?
Or that your newly-born child is a special child, that you have to spend more than the usual time in taking care of her?
Maybe you would feel weak – very weak. Or you would like to scream, hoping that this is just a nightmare – that tomorrow will be okay. And then you start blaming yourself and others, making the matter worse than what it is. Is that how you would react? Is that how you should react?
Ever since the Archangel Gabriel announced to Mary that she will be the mother of the Son of God, she already knew what will be consequences of that good news. She knows that she is bound to suffer also like Him.
But this did not prevent her from raising up Jesus like a normal child. And through her and her husband’s guidance, “the child grew and became strong, filled with wisdom; and the favor of God was upon him.”
There may be times when she would think about that time when Jesus has to die. Maybe, like us, she would like to scream and would feel very weak. But she carried on. She accepted all of these obediently. For she fully knows that it is God’s will and not hers, and God sustained her.
Sometimes, we thought that we already have the biggest problem in the world. And yet, most of the time, it is nothing compared to what others are suffering right now. All we need is to bring them all back to the Lord, fully knowing that He alone can sustain and carry us through all of these.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, carry me, sustain me, rescue me. You alone understand the pain and suffering I feel now. Only you can give me peace. Amen +
Who is this king of glory? It is the Lord!
Simeon blessed them and said to Mary his mother, “…and you yourself a sword will pierce so that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.”
-----------------------------------------------------------
What will you do or feel, if one day, a doctor will approach you and tell you that your son or daughter is dying of cancer and it is only a matter of time?
Or that your newly-born child is a special child, that you have to spend more than the usual time in taking care of her?
Maybe you would feel weak – very weak. Or you would like to scream, hoping that this is just a nightmare – that tomorrow will be okay. And then you start blaming yourself and others, making the matter worse than what it is. Is that how you would react? Is that how you should react?
Ever since the Archangel Gabriel announced to Mary that she will be the mother of the Son of God, she already knew what will be consequences of that good news. She knows that she is bound to suffer also like Him.
But this did not prevent her from raising up Jesus like a normal child. And through her and her husband’s guidance, “the child grew and became strong, filled with wisdom; and the favor of God was upon him.”
There may be times when she would think about that time when Jesus has to die. Maybe, like us, she would like to scream and would feel very weak. But she carried on. She accepted all of these obediently. For she fully knows that it is God’s will and not hers, and God sustained her.
Sometimes, we thought that we already have the biggest problem in the world. And yet, most of the time, it is nothing compared to what others are suffering right now. All we need is to bring them all back to the Lord, fully knowing that He alone can sustain and carry us through all of these.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, carry me, sustain me, rescue me. You alone understand the pain and suffering I feel now. Only you can give me peace. Amen +
Who is this king of glory? It is the Lord!
Wednesday, February 1, 2012
BE CURED (02-01-12)
Mark 5:34
He said to her, “Daughter, your faith has saved you. Go in peace and be cured of your affliction.”
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After my operation, the doctor said that the wound will heal after about seven days. So I need to go back to his clinic so he can remove the suture. And so after a week, I was at the doctor’s clinic.
He looked at the wound and told me that it has not healed. He was puzzled at first, until my wife spilled the beans. “He always touch his wound.” That is when the doctor was able to explain it. For touching it would infect it and healing will not progress at normal pace.
I was restless and did not listen to what the doctor said. And so my wound will not heal as expected.
Most of us also have afflictions. Not necessarily physical wounds. It could also be emotional and mental wounds. And most of the time, we become restless. We blame others for it. We try to fix it ourselves. We try to fix it our way. And so it doesn’t heal for a long time.
And so the Lord said, “Go in peace.” We must find first that rest and calmness in our mind before we can expect to be healed of all our afflictions. And only God can give us that peace in our heart. Be ready to accept the pain. Be ready to shed blood for it.
But, be ready to forgive. And be ready to let go. Without bitterness. Without hatred.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, teach me to let go of all the bitterness in my heart. Teach me to let go without hatred. Cure me of all my afflictions as I find peace only in You. Amen +
They will praise you, Lord, who long for you.
He said to her, “Daughter, your faith has saved you. Go in peace and be cured of your affliction.”
-------------------------------------------------------------
After my operation, the doctor said that the wound will heal after about seven days. So I need to go back to his clinic so he can remove the suture. And so after a week, I was at the doctor’s clinic.
He looked at the wound and told me that it has not healed. He was puzzled at first, until my wife spilled the beans. “He always touch his wound.” That is when the doctor was able to explain it. For touching it would infect it and healing will not progress at normal pace.
I was restless and did not listen to what the doctor said. And so my wound will not heal as expected.
Most of us also have afflictions. Not necessarily physical wounds. It could also be emotional and mental wounds. And most of the time, we become restless. We blame others for it. We try to fix it ourselves. We try to fix it our way. And so it doesn’t heal for a long time.
And so the Lord said, “Go in peace.” We must find first that rest and calmness in our mind before we can expect to be healed of all our afflictions. And only God can give us that peace in our heart. Be ready to accept the pain. Be ready to shed blood for it.
But, be ready to forgive. And be ready to let go. Without bitterness. Without hatred.
Let us pray +
Almighty Father, teach me to let go of all the bitterness in my heart. Teach me to let go without hatred. Cure me of all my afflictions as I find peace only in You. Amen +
They will praise you, Lord, who long for you.
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