1 Thessalonians 4:18 - "Thus, we shall always be with the Lord. Therefore, console one another with these Words."
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When have we last visited and looked at our conscience? When was the last time we looked at our hearts? Do we feel contented, that is, knowing that the Word of God lives within us?
Or, is it the other way around?
We all know that in this tempestuous world, it is very easy to forget everything that we have learned and accepted about the Lord. We can easily give in to temptations and sins, for it is really easier to sin than to follow each and every God's words and commands.
Thus, we should always persevere to be with Him. Spend some time daily to pray and ask for His mercy and forgiveness. Read the bible and learn about His words and on how to practice them in our lives.
Attend the mass and join in the Eucharistic celebration. Yearn to know Him more and how to keep Him in our hearts all the time. If we understand how much He loves us and takes care of us, only then can we realize that we should never, ever let Him go from our lives.
Accept Him today as your Lord and Savior and only through this true acceptance can we finally receive the true rewards of eternal life.
+ Let us pray: Almighty Father, whose only begotten Son has purchased for us the rewards of eternal life, be in our hearts forever. In the midst of trials, sufferings, difficulties and temptations, teach us to persevere more in knowing You and the love and mercy You give. Amen +
Monday, August 31, 2015
Sunday, August 30, 2015
DIYOS AT PAMILYA
Mark 7:21-23 - "From within people, from their hearts, comes evil thoughts, unchastity, theft, murder, adultery, greed, malice, deceit, licentiousness, envy, blasphemy, arrogance, folly. All these evils comes from within and they defile."
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Linggo na naman.
Naghahanda na naman ang ilan sa atin upang magsimba, dakilain ang Diyos at tanggapin siya sa Komunyon. Napakagandang isipin na kahit man lang sa isang araw sa isang Linggo, ay nagsasama-sama tayo upang tuparin ang panatang ito, at maging sentro ng ating buhay.
Matapos nito, ay ang pagsasalo-salo sa isang masarap an tanghalian o hapunan kasama ang ating mga mahal sa buhay
Diyos at Pamilya... ang tunay na pundasyon ng ating buhay, kung saan tunay na nakalaan ang ating lakas, talino at patuloy na pakikibaka.
Nawa'y patuloy nating damhin ang kagandahang ito. Nawa'y ipagpatuloy natin ang pananalig sa Kanya at pagbibigay pasasalamat sa Kanyang mga biyaya... sa hirap man o sa ginhawa.
Gawin natin ito, hindi lamang sa panlabas na kaanyuhan, kundi pati na rin sa mga salitang lumalabas sa ating mga bibig at mga gawaing ating ibinabahagi sa iba. Gamitin natin ang salita ng Diyos, upang pairalin ang pag-ibig sa ating pamilya at mga kaibigan.
Linggo na naman... humayo tayo at ibahagi ang salita at pagmamahal ng Diyos.
+ Manalangin tayo: Panginoong Diyos, salamat po sa isa na namang mapagpalang araw. Nawa'y magamit namin ang araw na ito upang papurihan ka at maibahagi rin sa iba ang biyaya at pagmamahal Mo. Patuloy mo kaming gabayan sa araw na ito at maisakatuparan nawa namin ang mga gawaing iniatas Mo sa amin at makamit namin ito dahil na rin sa Iyong kapangyarihan, Amen +
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Linggo na naman.
Naghahanda na naman ang ilan sa atin upang magsimba, dakilain ang Diyos at tanggapin siya sa Komunyon. Napakagandang isipin na kahit man lang sa isang araw sa isang Linggo, ay nagsasama-sama tayo upang tuparin ang panatang ito, at maging sentro ng ating buhay.
Matapos nito, ay ang pagsasalo-salo sa isang masarap an tanghalian o hapunan kasama ang ating mga mahal sa buhay
Diyos at Pamilya... ang tunay na pundasyon ng ating buhay, kung saan tunay na nakalaan ang ating lakas, talino at patuloy na pakikibaka.
Nawa'y patuloy nating damhin ang kagandahang ito. Nawa'y ipagpatuloy natin ang pananalig sa Kanya at pagbibigay pasasalamat sa Kanyang mga biyaya... sa hirap man o sa ginhawa.
Gawin natin ito, hindi lamang sa panlabas na kaanyuhan, kundi pati na rin sa mga salitang lumalabas sa ating mga bibig at mga gawaing ating ibinabahagi sa iba. Gamitin natin ang salita ng Diyos, upang pairalin ang pag-ibig sa ating pamilya at mga kaibigan.
Linggo na naman... humayo tayo at ibahagi ang salita at pagmamahal ng Diyos.
+ Manalangin tayo: Panginoong Diyos, salamat po sa isa na namang mapagpalang araw. Nawa'y magamit namin ang araw na ito upang papurihan ka at maibahagi rin sa iba ang biyaya at pagmamahal Mo. Patuloy mo kaming gabayan sa araw na ito at maisakatuparan nawa namin ang mga gawaing iniatas Mo sa amin at makamit namin ito dahil na rin sa Iyong kapangyarihan, Amen +
Saturday, August 29, 2015
GROWING IN FAITH
1 Thessalonians 4:10b-11a - "Nevertheless, we urge you, brothers and sisters, to progress even more, and to aspire to live a tranquil life..."
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When Mary visited his mother, he leapt in his mothers womb and both of them was filled with the Holy Spirit (Luke 1:41). And from that time on, John is destined to be the man that will prepare the coming of the Lord.
He lived a very simple life. He basically grew up in wilderness where he was strengthened by the Holy Spirit, to prepare him for his upcoming manifestation to Israel. And what a great and wonderful mission it will be.
And at the Jordan river, he was the one who baptized the Lord, signalling the start of Jesus' public life. And at that time, John knew he has to "lower" himself as the one mightier than him has come.
But he continued to preach against the Pharisees and even against Herod, which is basically the reason why he was beheaded. And so the life of a great man ended, but his wonderful deeds continue to echo until this time.
St. John's life is a continual growing in faith, from the time he was conceived until the time he was killed. It was a life of humility and total trust in the Lord, fully accepting the mission he was tasked to do. And through all of these, he remained humble fully knowing that there is someone mightier than him.
May we continue to grown in our faith. Continue to kneel in prayers. Continue to trust in the Lord. Continue to grow in His love. And as we grow in love with Him, may we also share that same love to others, so they may also grow in faith and continue to receive the blessings of the Lord.
+ Let us pray: Lord Jesus, teach us to be like St. John. Teach to to grown in faith with You. Teach us to be humble as we try to comprehend the mission in life that You want us to do. And teach us to accept it wholeheartedly and with full of trust in Your will. Amen +
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When Mary visited his mother, he leapt in his mothers womb and both of them was filled with the Holy Spirit (Luke 1:41). And from that time on, John is destined to be the man that will prepare the coming of the Lord.
He lived a very simple life. He basically grew up in wilderness where he was strengthened by the Holy Spirit, to prepare him for his upcoming manifestation to Israel. And what a great and wonderful mission it will be.
And at the Jordan river, he was the one who baptized the Lord, signalling the start of Jesus' public life. And at that time, John knew he has to "lower" himself as the one mightier than him has come.
But he continued to preach against the Pharisees and even against Herod, which is basically the reason why he was beheaded. And so the life of a great man ended, but his wonderful deeds continue to echo until this time.
St. John's life is a continual growing in faith, from the time he was conceived until the time he was killed. It was a life of humility and total trust in the Lord, fully accepting the mission he was tasked to do. And through all of these, he remained humble fully knowing that there is someone mightier than him.
May we continue to grown in our faith. Continue to kneel in prayers. Continue to trust in the Lord. Continue to grow in His love. And as we grow in love with Him, may we also share that same love to others, so they may also grow in faith and continue to receive the blessings of the Lord.
+ Let us pray: Lord Jesus, teach us to be like St. John. Teach to to grown in faith with You. Teach us to be humble as we try to comprehend the mission in life that You want us to do. And teach us to accept it wholeheartedly and with full of trust in Your will. Amen +
Friday, August 28, 2015
ALDUB YOU
Psalm 18:1 - "I love you, O Lord, my strength"
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It was not planned. It was just a trial, if it would click among the noontime viewers. And it did. The "AlDub" fever is now a certified hit. And as they do their "dubsmashing" and "fan signing" on TV, the viewers would become wild, hoping that someday, they would meet and maybe become lovers - in reel and for real. Why not?
What's even more for a planned "love affair"? Even before we were born, God already saw us, even knows the number of hairs on our head, for even before we were born, He already loves us.
So, shouldn't this love make us "wild" also - that is, in a sense that we always yearn for Him, fully praising and worshipping Him.
Shouldn't that same love bring us to "dubsmashing mode" - that is, quoting His Words in the Bible, singing songs of praise and sharing the same with others.
And, shouldn't that same love move us to "fan signing" - that is, writing lovely letters of love of praise and prayers, keeping it fully in our hearts.
Yes, the Lord loved us first. And He continues to do so. And when there is a time that we forget this love, then He loves us more. He continue to light out path so we go back to Him until we find that road to eternal life with Him "sa tamang panahon" (at the right and perfect time).
+ Let us pray: Lord God, thank You for loving me. And for continuing to love me. There would come a time that I would forget this love, but You would not give up on me. You would continue to light up my path, so finally, it would lead back to You, back to Your loving arms, where You will never let me go again. Amen +
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It was not planned. It was just a trial, if it would click among the noontime viewers. And it did. The "AlDub" fever is now a certified hit. And as they do their "dubsmashing" and "fan signing" on TV, the viewers would become wild, hoping that someday, they would meet and maybe become lovers - in reel and for real. Why not?
What's even more for a planned "love affair"? Even before we were born, God already saw us, even knows the number of hairs on our head, for even before we were born, He already loves us.
So, shouldn't this love make us "wild" also - that is, in a sense that we always yearn for Him, fully praising and worshipping Him.
Shouldn't that same love bring us to "dubsmashing mode" - that is, quoting His Words in the Bible, singing songs of praise and sharing the same with others.
And, shouldn't that same love move us to "fan signing" - that is, writing lovely letters of love of praise and prayers, keeping it fully in our hearts.
Yes, the Lord loved us first. And He continues to do so. And when there is a time that we forget this love, then He loves us more. He continue to light out path so we go back to Him until we find that road to eternal life with Him "sa tamang panahon" (at the right and perfect time).
+ Let us pray: Lord God, thank You for loving me. And for continuing to love me. There would come a time that I would forget this love, but You would not give up on me. You would continue to light up my path, so finally, it would lead back to You, back to Your loving arms, where You will never let me go again. Amen +
Thursday, August 27, 2015
PAGHIHINTAY AT PASENSIYA
Matthew 24:42 - "Stay awake! For you do not know on which day your Lord will come."
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Kung kaya't patuloy tayong naghihintay. Patuloy tayong umaasa, na isang araw ay darating na muli ang Panginoon upang muling maghari sa langit at lupa.
Hindi ba't ang buhay natin ngayon ay puno ng paghihintay? Pag-aabang ng sasakyan, pag-abang sa pila para makapanood ng sine o mag-file ng kinakailangan sa isang government office. Maghintay ng minamahal o mamahalin. Maghintay ng sandaling iyon na makasama nating muli ang ating Panginoon sa isang buhay na walang hanggan.
At ang laging kaakibat ng paghihintay ay ang kabutihan ng pasensiya o pagtitimpi. Hindi tayo basta-basta na lang sumusuko. Ito ay dahil alam natin ang magiging kabutihang dulot ng paghihintay. At sa ating pagtitimpi, iniaalay natin ang ating paghihintay sa Panginoon, na sana'y magkaroon ng katuparan ang ating mga kahilingan sa Kanya.
Ito ang kabutihang ipinamalas ni Santa Monica. Siya ang ina ni San Agustin. Bago maging pari si Agustin, isa itong babaero, at kalaban ng Simbahan. Ngunit dahil sa walang sawang pagdarasal ni Santa Monica sa loob ng sampung taon, naliwanagan ang pag-iisip ni Agustin, naging pari, at ngayo'y isang Santo at doktor ng Simbahang Katolika.
Maaaring ang ilan sa atin ay pagod na sa laban ng buhay. Ngunit nawa'y huwag tayong panghinaan ng loob. Patuloy tayong manalangin upang mabigyan tayo lagi ng lakas na malampasan ang anumang unos na dumarating. At sa tamang panahon, aanihin din natin ang biyaya ng ating paghihintay at pasensiya.
+ Manalangin tayo: Panginoon, salamat po sa kabutihan ng pagtitimpi na ipinagkaloob Mo sa amin. Nawa'y patuloy kaming magtiwala sa Iyo, na may pag-asang makamit namin ang aming minimithi. Salamat pong muli sa lahat ng biyayang ipinagkakaloob Mo; at sa Iyong mabuting Pangalan, ay patuloy naming ipababatid ang Iyong walang hanggang pagmamahal at pag-ibig sa iba, Amen +
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Kung kaya't patuloy tayong naghihintay. Patuloy tayong umaasa, na isang araw ay darating na muli ang Panginoon upang muling maghari sa langit at lupa.
Hindi ba't ang buhay natin ngayon ay puno ng paghihintay? Pag-aabang ng sasakyan, pag-abang sa pila para makapanood ng sine o mag-file ng kinakailangan sa isang government office. Maghintay ng minamahal o mamahalin. Maghintay ng sandaling iyon na makasama nating muli ang ating Panginoon sa isang buhay na walang hanggan.
At ang laging kaakibat ng paghihintay ay ang kabutihan ng pasensiya o pagtitimpi. Hindi tayo basta-basta na lang sumusuko. Ito ay dahil alam natin ang magiging kabutihang dulot ng paghihintay. At sa ating pagtitimpi, iniaalay natin ang ating paghihintay sa Panginoon, na sana'y magkaroon ng katuparan ang ating mga kahilingan sa Kanya.
Ito ang kabutihang ipinamalas ni Santa Monica. Siya ang ina ni San Agustin. Bago maging pari si Agustin, isa itong babaero, at kalaban ng Simbahan. Ngunit dahil sa walang sawang pagdarasal ni Santa Monica sa loob ng sampung taon, naliwanagan ang pag-iisip ni Agustin, naging pari, at ngayo'y isang Santo at doktor ng Simbahang Katolika.
Maaaring ang ilan sa atin ay pagod na sa laban ng buhay. Ngunit nawa'y huwag tayong panghinaan ng loob. Patuloy tayong manalangin upang mabigyan tayo lagi ng lakas na malampasan ang anumang unos na dumarating. At sa tamang panahon, aanihin din natin ang biyaya ng ating paghihintay at pasensiya.
+ Manalangin tayo: Panginoon, salamat po sa kabutihan ng pagtitimpi na ipinagkaloob Mo sa amin. Nawa'y patuloy kaming magtiwala sa Iyo, na may pag-asang makamit namin ang aming minimithi. Salamat pong muli sa lahat ng biyayang ipinagkakaloob Mo; at sa Iyong mabuting Pangalan, ay patuloy naming ipababatid ang Iyong walang hanggang pagmamahal at pag-ibig sa iba, Amen +
Wednesday, August 26, 2015
INSIDE AND OUT
Matthew 23:27b - "For you are like whitewashed tombs which on the outside appears beautiful, but inside they are full of dead men's bones and all uncleaness."
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Hypocrisy!
Being pretentious. Trying to reflect a virtuous character, or being morally upright, but acts differently when no one is looking.
Sounds familiar. Yes, it does, as I myself is guilty of being a hypocrite.
But let it be clear. Being a hypocrite is different from being "immature in your relationship with God".
Being a hypocrite means living a "double life", trying to exude that persona of being good in the eyes of others, but do something differently and immoral the moment you are alone without the struggle to renew yourself, as that is your true self and being.
But, being immature means you really struggles against sins and temptations, as you really try hard to keep the Lord in your heart. And as you struggle, you also learn something beautiful, and keep that lessons to continually develop your relationship with God.
Being a hypocrite is putting a great deal on how others perceive you rather than how God sees and knows you to be.
But being immature is putting a great deal in improving yourself in the eyes of God, fully knowing that having a pure heart is far more important, so others may see God in you, and see God in them.
+ Let us pray: Lord God, help me to be totally true to Your calling, and not just because someone is looking. Help me in all my struggles against sins and temptations, continually improving and developing myself, cleansing my heart so I may truly be deserving of Your promises. Teach me, Lord, on how to grow in Your love, seeking Your presence always and forever. Amen +
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Hypocrisy!
Being pretentious. Trying to reflect a virtuous character, or being morally upright, but acts differently when no one is looking.
Sounds familiar. Yes, it does, as I myself is guilty of being a hypocrite.
But let it be clear. Being a hypocrite is different from being "immature in your relationship with God".
Being a hypocrite means living a "double life", trying to exude that persona of being good in the eyes of others, but do something differently and immoral the moment you are alone without the struggle to renew yourself, as that is your true self and being.
But, being immature means you really struggles against sins and temptations, as you really try hard to keep the Lord in your heart. And as you struggle, you also learn something beautiful, and keep that lessons to continually develop your relationship with God.
Being a hypocrite is putting a great deal on how others perceive you rather than how God sees and knows you to be.
But being immature is putting a great deal in improving yourself in the eyes of God, fully knowing that having a pure heart is far more important, so others may see God in you, and see God in them.
+ Let us pray: Lord God, help me to be totally true to Your calling, and not just because someone is looking. Help me in all my struggles against sins and temptations, continually improving and developing myself, cleansing my heart so I may truly be deserving of Your promises. Teach me, Lord, on how to grow in Your love, seeking Your presence always and forever. Amen +
Tuesday, August 25, 2015
OVER AND OVER AGAIN
Luke 11:8 - "I tell you, even though he will not get up and give him anything because he is his friend, yet because of his persistence, he will get up and give him as much as he needs".
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When I am reviewing for exams, my father would tell me to make a reviewer, and then I need to go through it over and over again until I memorize everything. And you know what, it really worked. I can always pass the quizzes and exams.
And to develop a habit or a skill, we need to do it over and over again, until we master it. During the first time I rode a bike, I fell and suffered bruises. During the first time I baked a bread, it was hard as a rock.
But as I do it over and over again, I was able to master riding a bike and baking a bread. And this persistence has made me realized that anything is achievable if you would put your heart and mind to it.
Are you experiencing pain now? Are you depressed? Have you tried telling God your worries by praying? How many times? Only once and then you stop? No wonder you continue to be in your saddest state.
Try doing it again. Not once or twice, but over and over again. Until you develop that habit of talking to Him, reaching to Him, opening your heart to Him.
Now, isn't that a great feeling?
+ Let us pray: Almighty Father, hear our prayers. I will not get tired of doing it again and again, as You are not getting tired also of truly blessing us over and over again. Let us open our hearts to You, as we listen fully and follow Your will. Thank you, Lord, for listening and giving what is right, Amen +
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When I am reviewing for exams, my father would tell me to make a reviewer, and then I need to go through it over and over again until I memorize everything. And you know what, it really worked. I can always pass the quizzes and exams.
And to develop a habit or a skill, we need to do it over and over again, until we master it. During the first time I rode a bike, I fell and suffered bruises. During the first time I baked a bread, it was hard as a rock.
But as I do it over and over again, I was able to master riding a bike and baking a bread. And this persistence has made me realized that anything is achievable if you would put your heart and mind to it.
Are you experiencing pain now? Are you depressed? Have you tried telling God your worries by praying? How many times? Only once and then you stop? No wonder you continue to be in your saddest state.
Try doing it again. Not once or twice, but over and over again. Until you develop that habit of talking to Him, reaching to Him, opening your heart to Him.
Now, isn't that a great feeling?
+ Let us pray: Almighty Father, hear our prayers. I will not get tired of doing it again and again, as You are not getting tired also of truly blessing us over and over again. Let us open our hearts to You, as we listen fully and follow Your will. Thank you, Lord, for listening and giving what is right, Amen +
Monday, August 24, 2015
MY LORD AND MY SAVIOR
John 1:46 - "Nathanael asked, 'Can any good thing come out of Nazareth? Philip said to him, 'Come and see.'"
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I was in 3rd year high school when, during a Youth Marian Formation Seminar in Mt. Makiling that I fully accepted Jesus as my Lord and Savior with Mary as my Divine Mother. It was a great experience knowing, trusting and believing in One, True, Living God.
After that, it was a series of ups and downs with the Lord. Graduated college without missing a beat, raising up a family, having a house that we can call our own. It was not a luxurious life, but a life fully blessed for I know the Lord is always with me, looking after me, and taking care of me.
And so I invite you to also "come and see" the goodness of the Lord. Accept Him in your heart as your only Lord and Savior. It may not be good all the time, but will nevertheless, a truly satisfying experience.
Be with me in prayer: "Lord Jesus, I accept You today as my Lord and Savior. Enter my heart and guide me all the days of my life. Forgive me of all my sins and have mercy on us. Fill my heart with Your Spirit, O Lord, and instill in me the fire of Your love, so I may, in return and through me, give that same love to others who would need Your same love. Amen +
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I was in 3rd year high school when, during a Youth Marian Formation Seminar in Mt. Makiling that I fully accepted Jesus as my Lord and Savior with Mary as my Divine Mother. It was a great experience knowing, trusting and believing in One, True, Living God.
After that, it was a series of ups and downs with the Lord. Graduated college without missing a beat, raising up a family, having a house that we can call our own. It was not a luxurious life, but a life fully blessed for I know the Lord is always with me, looking after me, and taking care of me.
And so I invite you to also "come and see" the goodness of the Lord. Accept Him in your heart as your only Lord and Savior. It may not be good all the time, but will nevertheless, a truly satisfying experience.
Be with me in prayer: "Lord Jesus, I accept You today as my Lord and Savior. Enter my heart and guide me all the days of my life. Forgive me of all my sins and have mercy on us. Fill my heart with Your Spirit, O Lord, and instill in me the fire of Your love, so I may, in return and through me, give that same love to others who would need Your same love. Amen +
Sunday, August 23, 2015
ONLY WAY TO GO
John 6:68 - "Simon Peter answered Him, 'Lord, to whom shall we go? You have words of eternal life'"
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If we do not like the food or the service in a restaurant, we would swear that we will not go back there again. If the tele-serye that we are viewing is already bland or boring to our taste, we would stop viewing it, or go to the other channel hoping that it is better than the other one.
It is but normal for us people to choose. Isn't it what freedom of choice is all about? Well, you may be right.
But how about this - you do not like the sermon from your parish priest, so you will just stop attending the mass? Or worse, you try another "religion" where you think you will hear better sermons (or sermons that you like to hear).
Jesus experienced the same. If you will go through the verses in John 6:60-69, you will come to read that most of His disciples left Him, because they found it hard believing in what He is telling them.
Jesus wants us to trust in Him, for His words are the words of God. It is not all about the sermons, the choir, the location of the place of worship. We go to the Church and hear the mass because we want to be with Jesus in the Eucharist. We want to experience His love and blessings, no more no less.
It is always all about our relationship with the Lord and how we grow our faith in Him that matters.
+ Let us pray: Lord Jesus, to whom shall we go? You are the way, the truth and the life. Teach us to believe in Your words. We may sometimes go astray because we become pre-occupied with the world, and try to find something we thought is better. Only You is the best. Only you is our Lord. And we always go back to You and remain in You, forever. Amen +
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If we do not like the food or the service in a restaurant, we would swear that we will not go back there again. If the tele-serye that we are viewing is already bland or boring to our taste, we would stop viewing it, or go to the other channel hoping that it is better than the other one.
It is but normal for us people to choose. Isn't it what freedom of choice is all about? Well, you may be right.
But how about this - you do not like the sermon from your parish priest, so you will just stop attending the mass? Or worse, you try another "religion" where you think you will hear better sermons (or sermons that you like to hear).
Jesus experienced the same. If you will go through the verses in John 6:60-69, you will come to read that most of His disciples left Him, because they found it hard believing in what He is telling them.
Jesus wants us to trust in Him, for His words are the words of God. It is not all about the sermons, the choir, the location of the place of worship. We go to the Church and hear the mass because we want to be with Jesus in the Eucharist. We want to experience His love and blessings, no more no less.
It is always all about our relationship with the Lord and how we grow our faith in Him that matters.
+ Let us pray: Lord Jesus, to whom shall we go? You are the way, the truth and the life. Teach us to believe in Your words. We may sometimes go astray because we become pre-occupied with the world, and try to find something we thought is better. Only You is the best. Only you is our Lord. And we always go back to You and remain in You, forever. Amen +
Saturday, August 22, 2015
MOTHER OF HEAVEN AND EARTH
Luke 1:38 - "Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord. May it be done to me according to your word."
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The handmaid of the Lord. The Lord's mother. The Queen of Heaven and Earth. Mary, the blessed virgin.
But the best of all, she is Mary, our Mother.
She was given that opportunity for greatness, that out of humility, she readily accepted. But she knows right there and then, that it is not about her greatness, but rather, so that the generations to come would know the greatness of her Son.
Some of us may always think or say, "if I could only choose my mother." Did you know what? Jesus was truly blessed, for He was able to choose His mother. She made Him grow up strong, full of wisdom and the favor of God was with Him. Yet, she pampered Jesus like a human, not God - bathing Him, feeding Him, clothing Him, teaching Him and loving Him.
Most of us will always tell our mothers, "I will give you the best, mom." But Jesus gave His mother not only the best, but the greatest. He took Her to heaven and made her the Queen of Heaven and Earth. The mother of us all, in a place where she truly belong.
+ Let us pray: Lord Jesus, thank You for giving us Your mother. She has accepted the will of the Father, so she may conceive You and be the salvation of the world. May we imitate her humility, simplicity and supreme sacrifice so that others may realize the love You give. We accept her in our hearts, together with Your loving mercy. Amen +
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The handmaid of the Lord. The Lord's mother. The Queen of Heaven and Earth. Mary, the blessed virgin.
But the best of all, she is Mary, our Mother.
She was given that opportunity for greatness, that out of humility, she readily accepted. But she knows right there and then, that it is not about her greatness, but rather, so that the generations to come would know the greatness of her Son.
Some of us may always think or say, "if I could only choose my mother." Did you know what? Jesus was truly blessed, for He was able to choose His mother. She made Him grow up strong, full of wisdom and the favor of God was with Him. Yet, she pampered Jesus like a human, not God - bathing Him, feeding Him, clothing Him, teaching Him and loving Him.
Most of us will always tell our mothers, "I will give you the best, mom." But Jesus gave His mother not only the best, but the greatest. He took Her to heaven and made her the Queen of Heaven and Earth. The mother of us all, in a place where she truly belong.
+ Let us pray: Lord Jesus, thank You for giving us Your mother. She has accepted the will of the Father, so she may conceive You and be the salvation of the world. May we imitate her humility, simplicity and supreme sacrifice so that others may realize the love You give. We accept her in our hearts, together with Your loving mercy. Amen +
Friday, August 21, 2015
WORTH DYING FOR
John 15:13 - "Greater love has no one than this, that one lay down his life for his friends."
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It has been thirty-two years since that fateful day when Ninoy Aquino was assassinated, upon coming back to Manila. He has been a "thorn" to the presidential regime of the Marcoses, so everyone thinks that Marcos is the mastermind of all of this.
It has been a great life for this great Philippine Senator, willing to face danger, because for him, at that time, "the Filipinos are worth dying for."
And more that two thousand years ago, a man has offered His life, not just for a certain race, but for the salvation of us all. It has never been an easy decision, but He knew right from the start, that He will be sacrificed so the devil shall not rule over mankind, and paid the price so we may all achieve eternal life.
Jesus Christ. Our Lord and our Savior. Willing to risk and offer His life for a friend. He is not expecting from most of us that we do the same act of sacrifice for a friend, but He does expect that each and everyone of us will die to ourselves - to carry our own cross and follow Him.
And for everyone of us, death to self is not an option. It is a choice that will lead us to Him and the eternal life with the Lord.
+ Let us pray: Jesus, you are my Lord and my Savior. Your are my life, and I and I am willing to carry my own cross and follow You. Lead me, Lord, to a life full of love and forgiveness. Lead me, Lord, to You. Amen +
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It has been thirty-two years since that fateful day when Ninoy Aquino was assassinated, upon coming back to Manila. He has been a "thorn" to the presidential regime of the Marcoses, so everyone thinks that Marcos is the mastermind of all of this.
It has been a great life for this great Philippine Senator, willing to face danger, because for him, at that time, "the Filipinos are worth dying for."
And more that two thousand years ago, a man has offered His life, not just for a certain race, but for the salvation of us all. It has never been an easy decision, but He knew right from the start, that He will be sacrificed so the devil shall not rule over mankind, and paid the price so we may all achieve eternal life.
Jesus Christ. Our Lord and our Savior. Willing to risk and offer His life for a friend. He is not expecting from most of us that we do the same act of sacrifice for a friend, but He does expect that each and everyone of us will die to ourselves - to carry our own cross and follow Him.
And for everyone of us, death to self is not an option. It is a choice that will lead us to Him and the eternal life with the Lord.
+ Let us pray: Jesus, you are my Lord and my Savior. Your are my life, and I and I am willing to carry my own cross and follow You. Lead me, Lord, to a life full of love and forgiveness. Lead me, Lord, to You. Amen +
Thursday, August 20, 2015
BE NOT ASHAMED
Romans 1:6 - "For I am not ashamed of the Gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes..."
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Videoke time! You can sing everything, and would not care if it is out of tune, as long as you can have a good time. But why is it that during the mass, you do not even join in the singing of praise? Are you ashame that you might sing out of tune? Or you simply doesn't like to do it?
But I tell you, God doesn't care whether you sing out of tune, what He is looking at is you singing from the heart, praising and blessing Him with love and attention.
Gossip time! You cannot wait meeting with your friends, and exchange gossips with them, about things that you discovered, or heard. And you can talk and talk as long as you want. But why is it that when it comes to sharing about the love of God, you are not up to it? Are you afraid that people will not listen, or that they will mock you?
But I tell you, God doesn't care whether you are afraid, what He is looking for is that you share the Gospel from the heart, praising and blessing Him with love and attention.
We always share any good news with others. And what is better than the Good News of salvation? Read about it. Learn about it. And share it to everyone. You should not be ashamed about it, for God looks at your heart.
+ Let us pray: Lord Jesus, let me share the Good News of salvation to everyone I know. I should never ever be ashame of doing this. You carried and died on the cross so I may be saved, and You did those in total disregard of what people is saying about you. Let me do the same, so when we meet someday in heaven, you will never be ashamed of me. Amen +
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Videoke time! You can sing everything, and would not care if it is out of tune, as long as you can have a good time. But why is it that during the mass, you do not even join in the singing of praise? Are you ashame that you might sing out of tune? Or you simply doesn't like to do it?
But I tell you, God doesn't care whether you sing out of tune, what He is looking at is you singing from the heart, praising and blessing Him with love and attention.
Gossip time! You cannot wait meeting with your friends, and exchange gossips with them, about things that you discovered, or heard. And you can talk and talk as long as you want. But why is it that when it comes to sharing about the love of God, you are not up to it? Are you afraid that people will not listen, or that they will mock you?
But I tell you, God doesn't care whether you are afraid, what He is looking for is that you share the Gospel from the heart, praising and blessing Him with love and attention.
We always share any good news with others. And what is better than the Good News of salvation? Read about it. Learn about it. And share it to everyone. You should not be ashamed about it, for God looks at your heart.
+ Let us pray: Lord Jesus, let me share the Good News of salvation to everyone I know. I should never ever be ashame of doing this. You carried and died on the cross so I may be saved, and You did those in total disregard of what people is saying about you. Let me do the same, so when we meet someday in heaven, you will never be ashamed of me. Amen +
Wednesday, August 19, 2015
FAIR AND FAITHFUL GOD
Matthew 20:14 - "Take what is yours and go, but I wish to give to this last man the same as to you.'
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I know you know a person like this one - a man lived most of his life in sin - cheating, drinking, smoking, stealing, womanizing. And most probably, you tell to yourself, "this man will certainly go to hell". Well, you may be right.
But, did you know that if that time come that he is either bedridden, or gasping his last breath, and he suddenly accepted Jesus as his Lord and Saviour, then he will be saved? And you might say, "that is unfair!"
But yes, that is the truth, as what Jesus likened to the Kingdom of heaven in today's gospel. Our God is a faithful God. Our God is a fair God. He gives what He promised. And He does this with love, not just justice.
What is unfair to us, people, is not the same with God. And if someone is to be judged as unfair, it would be you. Why? Well, you say you have known Him for all your life, but you kept it to yourself. You did not share it to others.
You did not share that joy with the Lord to that man. So, aren't you as guilty as him? Think about it. And so, we are all like the prodigal son, that God wants to go back to Him, fully loving, trusting and hoping in Him.
+ Let us pray: Almighty Father, I have always thought that I am the best in your eyes. That I am the apple of Your eye. But, I forgot that this pride in my heart continue to take me away from you. Please forgive me Father for this thinking. Let me continue to share the joy in my heart with others who would need to know You more, who would need Your love more, Amen +
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I know you know a person like this one - a man lived most of his life in sin - cheating, drinking, smoking, stealing, womanizing. And most probably, you tell to yourself, "this man will certainly go to hell". Well, you may be right.
But, did you know that if that time come that he is either bedridden, or gasping his last breath, and he suddenly accepted Jesus as his Lord and Saviour, then he will be saved? And you might say, "that is unfair!"
But yes, that is the truth, as what Jesus likened to the Kingdom of heaven in today's gospel. Our God is a faithful God. Our God is a fair God. He gives what He promised. And He does this with love, not just justice.
What is unfair to us, people, is not the same with God. And if someone is to be judged as unfair, it would be you. Why? Well, you say you have known Him for all your life, but you kept it to yourself. You did not share it to others.
You did not share that joy with the Lord to that man. So, aren't you as guilty as him? Think about it. And so, we are all like the prodigal son, that God wants to go back to Him, fully loving, trusting and hoping in Him.
+ Let us pray: Almighty Father, I have always thought that I am the best in your eyes. That I am the apple of Your eye. But, I forgot that this pride in my heart continue to take me away from you. Please forgive me Father for this thinking. Let me continue to share the joy in my heart with others who would need to know You more, who would need Your love more, Amen +
Tuesday, August 18, 2015
PRAYING FROM THE HEART
Matthew 6:7 - "And when you are praying, do not use meaningless repetition as the Gentiles do, for they think that they will be heard for their many words."
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How do we master a skill? By doing it over and over again.
How do you win a girl's heart? By telling her, over and over again, that you love her, that is aside from giving her things that she like, every time.
And as what Aristotle once proclaimed, "We are what we repeatedly do."
Hence, what is expected from us in our spiritual life? Constant and unceasing praying, hearing the mass at least every Sunday, receiving Christ through Communion, continual relationship with God through good works.
We cannot develop that special relationship with the Lord, if we only talk to Him seldomly, or only during trials and sufferings. We need to make it a habit, constantly talking with Him in prayers.
And that is not just talking and babbling without any sense. We need to do it from the heart, in full humility and total trust in the Lord. Make each and every prayer meaningful and guide as we meditate about our life and our relationship with the Lord. Live it, love it and be what you repeatedly do.
+ Let us pray: Almighty Father, I love you. And I say it, over and over again. I say it repeatedly, for that is the same love that you gave me even before I was born. Continue to bless me, Oh Lord, so I may continue Your work here on earth, Amen +
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How do we master a skill? By doing it over and over again.
How do you win a girl's heart? By telling her, over and over again, that you love her, that is aside from giving her things that she like, every time.
And as what Aristotle once proclaimed, "We are what we repeatedly do."
Hence, what is expected from us in our spiritual life? Constant and unceasing praying, hearing the mass at least every Sunday, receiving Christ through Communion, continual relationship with God through good works.
We cannot develop that special relationship with the Lord, if we only talk to Him seldomly, or only during trials and sufferings. We need to make it a habit, constantly talking with Him in prayers.
And that is not just talking and babbling without any sense. We need to do it from the heart, in full humility and total trust in the Lord. Make each and every prayer meaningful and guide as we meditate about our life and our relationship with the Lord. Live it, love it and be what you repeatedly do.
+ Let us pray: Almighty Father, I love you. And I say it, over and over again. I say it repeatedly, for that is the same love that you gave me even before I was born. Continue to bless me, Oh Lord, so I may continue Your work here on earth, Amen +
Monday, August 17, 2015
PASASALAMAT
1 Chronicles 16:8 - "Oh, give thanks to the Lord, call upon His name; make known His deeds among the peoples."
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Bata pa lamang tayo, tinuruan na tayong magsabi ng pasasalamat. Pag may ibinigay sa ating gustong-gusto natin, ano ang dapat nating sabihin? "Salamat po" or "Tenkyu po". Pag nabigyan tayo ng aginaldo tuwing Pasko ni ninong at ni ninang, ano ang sasabihin mo? "Salamat po, ninong...Meri Krismas po."
Tunay na napakahalagang maging mapagpasalamat tayo sa lahat ng bagay na nakukuha or ibinibigay sa atin, gaano man ito kalaki o kaliit. At sa bawat kagandahang-loob na ating natatanggap, nawa ay maibigay rin natin ang katulad na handog o biyaya sa iba.
At sa ating pagdarasal sa umaga, huwag nating kalimutang magpasalamat sa Diyos sa panibagong araw sa ating buhay. At sa anumang gawain na ating gagawin, ipaubaya natin ito sa Kanya at nawa's maisagawa natin ito ng may kahusayan, kasiyahan, at kagalakan sa ating mga puso.
Bago naman tayo matulog sa gabi, ibigay muli natin ang ating saril sa Kanya at muling magpasalamat sa isa na namang napakagandang araw na lumipas. At sa iyong pag-idlip, nawa ay gabayan ka Niya at bantayan, hanggang muli sa panibagong bukas.
Magpasalamat sa Kanya sa lahat ng pagkakataon - maganda man o hindi ang iyong nararanasan sa ngayon. Yan ang natutuhan mo mula pa pagkabata, at isang magandang kaugalian na hindi dapat kalimutan magpakailanman.
Salamat po!
+ Manalangin tayo: Panginoong Ama, nalilimutan ko minsang magpasalamat sa iyo, lalo na kung masyado akong abala sa aking ginagawa. Nalilimutan kong nandiyan ka sa tabi ko at umaalalay sa lahat ng aking gawain. Maraming salamat po, Panginoon, sa buhay na ipnagkaloob mo sa akin. Gawin mo po akong instrumento upang maunawaan rin ng iba ang Iyong kagalingan, at magpasalamat sa iyong biyaya at pagmamahal, Amen +
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Bata pa lamang tayo, tinuruan na tayong magsabi ng pasasalamat. Pag may ibinigay sa ating gustong-gusto natin, ano ang dapat nating sabihin? "Salamat po" or "Tenkyu po". Pag nabigyan tayo ng aginaldo tuwing Pasko ni ninong at ni ninang, ano ang sasabihin mo? "Salamat po, ninong...Meri Krismas po."
Tunay na napakahalagang maging mapagpasalamat tayo sa lahat ng bagay na nakukuha or ibinibigay sa atin, gaano man ito kalaki o kaliit. At sa bawat kagandahang-loob na ating natatanggap, nawa ay maibigay rin natin ang katulad na handog o biyaya sa iba.
At sa ating pagdarasal sa umaga, huwag nating kalimutang magpasalamat sa Diyos sa panibagong araw sa ating buhay. At sa anumang gawain na ating gagawin, ipaubaya natin ito sa Kanya at nawa's maisagawa natin ito ng may kahusayan, kasiyahan, at kagalakan sa ating mga puso.
Bago naman tayo matulog sa gabi, ibigay muli natin ang ating saril sa Kanya at muling magpasalamat sa isa na namang napakagandang araw na lumipas. At sa iyong pag-idlip, nawa ay gabayan ka Niya at bantayan, hanggang muli sa panibagong bukas.
Magpasalamat sa Kanya sa lahat ng pagkakataon - maganda man o hindi ang iyong nararanasan sa ngayon. Yan ang natutuhan mo mula pa pagkabata, at isang magandang kaugalian na hindi dapat kalimutan magpakailanman.
Salamat po!
+ Manalangin tayo: Panginoong Ama, nalilimutan ko minsang magpasalamat sa iyo, lalo na kung masyado akong abala sa aking ginagawa. Nalilimutan kong nandiyan ka sa tabi ko at umaalalay sa lahat ng aking gawain. Maraming salamat po, Panginoon, sa buhay na ipnagkaloob mo sa akin. Gawin mo po akong instrumento upang maunawaan rin ng iba ang Iyong kagalingan, at magpasalamat sa iyong biyaya at pagmamahal, Amen +
Sunday, August 16, 2015
BREAD OF LIFE
John 6:51 - "I am the living bread that came down from heaven, whoever eats this bread will live forever..."
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I recently acquired a new skill - baking. Honestly, I already thought of learning this skill a long time ago, but I hesitated. First of all, I don't have the tools to do it. Secondly, I was afraid that I might not do it right, and put the ingredients to waste.
But I did learned it, and I am happy that I can bake now basic breads like pandesal, ensaimada and chiffon cake. And whenever there are relatives who would celebrate their birthday, I would at least bake them a cake.
Spiritually, there is one bread that is most important for us to receive. That bread would allow us to live our life, here and beyond, together with God. And, once we accept the living bread, we are promised of life forever.
And that living bread is Jesus Christ. During the Eucharist, we accept Him spiritually, body and blood to refresh our spirit. Isn't it great to know that that Jesus is living not only among us, but within us? And so, we must live like how He lived, for our body becomes the vessel of His body.
Accept the living bread today, and experience the life full of blessings and spiritually joy.
+ Let us pray: Lord Jesus, let me accept You, as my Living Bread, my Lord and my God. Fill my spirit with Your love. Forgive us of our sins and have mercy on us all. Lord, be with us forever, today and in eternal bliss, Amen +
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I recently acquired a new skill - baking. Honestly, I already thought of learning this skill a long time ago, but I hesitated. First of all, I don't have the tools to do it. Secondly, I was afraid that I might not do it right, and put the ingredients to waste.
But I did learned it, and I am happy that I can bake now basic breads like pandesal, ensaimada and chiffon cake. And whenever there are relatives who would celebrate their birthday, I would at least bake them a cake.
Spiritually, there is one bread that is most important for us to receive. That bread would allow us to live our life, here and beyond, together with God. And, once we accept the living bread, we are promised of life forever.
And that living bread is Jesus Christ. During the Eucharist, we accept Him spiritually, body and blood to refresh our spirit. Isn't it great to know that that Jesus is living not only among us, but within us? And so, we must live like how He lived, for our body becomes the vessel of His body.
Accept the living bread today, and experience the life full of blessings and spiritually joy.
+ Let us pray: Lord Jesus, let me accept You, as my Living Bread, my Lord and my God. Fill my spirit with Your love. Forgive us of our sins and have mercy on us all. Lord, be with us forever, today and in eternal bliss, Amen +
Saturday, August 15, 2015
MARY, OUR MOTHER, PRAY FOR US
Luke 1:46-48 - "My soul glorifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for He has been mindful, of the humble state of His servant.
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The Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary... a Catholic faith dogma, a mystery accepted by us, for we know that our Mother must be with her Son in Heaven, so she may guide us towards Jesus.
Our mother has been humble from the start, when she accepted the will of God in that fateful annunciation day. And from that day on, she has already prepared herself for the coming suffering and death of her beloved Son.
And the Lord is calling all of us to be like Mary - humble, loving, strong in faith follower of God.
When that time comes that the Lord ask you to do something for His glory, are you ready? Are you willing to accept it without question? Are you willing to walk the road less-traveled like Mary so we may all be saved through Jesus?
How much of yourself are you willing to give up for His glory?
+ Let us pray: Holy Father, in the plan of Your wisdom, Mama Mary, who bore Jesus in her womb, was raised body and soul in glory to be with Him in heaven. May we follow her example in reflecting His holiness, and join in her endless hymn of endless love and praise. Amen +
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The Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary... a Catholic faith dogma, a mystery accepted by us, for we know that our Mother must be with her Son in Heaven, so she may guide us towards Jesus.
Our mother has been humble from the start, when she accepted the will of God in that fateful annunciation day. And from that day on, she has already prepared herself for the coming suffering and death of her beloved Son.
And the Lord is calling all of us to be like Mary - humble, loving, strong in faith follower of God.
When that time comes that the Lord ask you to do something for His glory, are you ready? Are you willing to accept it without question? Are you willing to walk the road less-traveled like Mary so we may all be saved through Jesus?
How much of yourself are you willing to give up for His glory?
+ Let us pray: Holy Father, in the plan of Your wisdom, Mama Mary, who bore Jesus in her womb, was raised body and soul in glory to be with Him in heaven. May we follow her example in reflecting His holiness, and join in her endless hymn of endless love and praise. Amen +
Friday, August 14, 2015
T.G.I. FRIDAY
1 Thessalonians 5:18 - "In everything, give thanks; for this is God's will for you in Jesus Christ."
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Thank God, it's Friday!
And for most of us, this is doubly special because it is PAYDAY!
Time to bond again with our friends and families, with special dinner and some drinking. Not bad, as long as we take it in moderation.
And as we delve into this "Friday" thing, let us not forget to give thanks to the Lord for all the wonderful things He has done for us.
How about a short prayer of thanksgiving? How about a short trip to a church, kneel and then pray, blessing and thanking God for surviving another week?
May we never forget to thank God in everything that we do. "For everything created by God is good; and nothing is to be rejected, if it is received with gratitude; for it is sanctified by means of the word of God and prayer (1 Timothy 4:4-5)."
+ Let us pray: Lord God, thank you for everything! Great is Your name and we praise and adore You. We thank you for the things that continue to make us well, for things that make us closer to You. May we never forget that all of these came from You, and so we all give them back to You. Amen +
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Thank God, it's Friday!
And for most of us, this is doubly special because it is PAYDAY!
Time to bond again with our friends and families, with special dinner and some drinking. Not bad, as long as we take it in moderation.
And as we delve into this "Friday" thing, let us not forget to give thanks to the Lord for all the wonderful things He has done for us.
How about a short prayer of thanksgiving? How about a short trip to a church, kneel and then pray, blessing and thanking God for surviving another week?
May we never forget to thank God in everything that we do. "For everything created by God is good; and nothing is to be rejected, if it is received with gratitude; for it is sanctified by means of the word of God and prayer (1 Timothy 4:4-5)."
+ Let us pray: Lord God, thank you for everything! Great is Your name and we praise and adore You. We thank you for the things that continue to make us well, for things that make us closer to You. May we never forget that all of these came from You, and so we all give them back to You. Amen +
Thursday, August 13, 2015
OUR HOPE WILL ALWAYS BE JESUS
Job 6:8 - "Oh, that I might have my request, that God would grant what I hope for..."
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During my childhood, the word "Hope" pertains to a cigarette brand. And I don't even bother to know what it means, as I thought back then that it is just a name like any other cigarette brands like Marlboro, or Salem or Winston.
But now, I look at "hope" in a very different way. I look at it as the very essence of our relationship with the Lord. It is fully believing and knowing that God will be eternally present in our lives, hence, we should never give up on His love.
In sickness, we hope that we get well. In suffering, we hope that we get away from all these miseries. We hope for something better, and not the other way around. For hoping is a virtue that we received through Divine grace that will help us excel, endure and win over trials and temptations.
Let us not lose hope. Enjoy life with the Lord, and forever hope that His love will see us through the hardships of life.
+ Let us pray: Lord God, I hope in you. In those times I feel helpless, in those times that I feel weak, and in those times that I am in darkness, I pray and hope for a better future. I pray for your kindness and love, so I may overcome all these trials, and be with You all time of my life. Amen +
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During my childhood, the word "Hope" pertains to a cigarette brand. And I don't even bother to know what it means, as I thought back then that it is just a name like any other cigarette brands like Marlboro, or Salem or Winston.
But now, I look at "hope" in a very different way. I look at it as the very essence of our relationship with the Lord. It is fully believing and knowing that God will be eternally present in our lives, hence, we should never give up on His love.
In sickness, we hope that we get well. In suffering, we hope that we get away from all these miseries. We hope for something better, and not the other way around. For hoping is a virtue that we received through Divine grace that will help us excel, endure and win over trials and temptations.
Let us not lose hope. Enjoy life with the Lord, and forever hope that His love will see us through the hardships of life.
+ Let us pray: Lord God, I hope in you. In those times I feel helpless, in those times that I feel weak, and in those times that I am in darkness, I pray and hope for a better future. I pray for your kindness and love, so I may overcome all these trials, and be with You all time of my life. Amen +
Wednesday, August 12, 2015
I TRUST IN YOU
Proverbs 3:5 - "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding..."
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Our company was recently bought by another, bigger one. And by October this year, this company of ours will cease to exist. All logos, branding, office names will be taken out and replaced by the logo and names of the buyer.
And as that time comes, everyone is in waiting mode, as we do not really know what will be the final setup of the company. We believe that some of the people will be let go, and that thought makes us either excited or worried.
But I put everything in the Lord's hands.
Isn't it the same when He offered His life so we may be saved, "and to give His life as a ransom for many" (Mark 10:45b)? He bought us back from the devil so we may live with Him forever. And He did this, not by money, but through His blood and life.
We may feel anxious, sad, depressed today about things that we do not even know will really happen. So, why not kneel in prayer and talk to Him. Open your heart and tell Him what and how you feel today. Cry with Him and let Him caress you with His love, fully understanding in the end, that everything will be alright. That, everything will be for the good of everyone, not just yours.
I put everything in the Lord's hands now. I trust in Him for He loves me.
+ Let us pray: Lord Jesus, I feel very low these days. Maybe, I did forget Your promise of life. Maybe, I lost trust in You. Lift up my spirit, Lord and open my heart to your Words. You died for us so that we may live. May we never ever forget this. Amen +
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Our company was recently bought by another, bigger one. And by October this year, this company of ours will cease to exist. All logos, branding, office names will be taken out and replaced by the logo and names of the buyer.
And as that time comes, everyone is in waiting mode, as we do not really know what will be the final setup of the company. We believe that some of the people will be let go, and that thought makes us either excited or worried.
But I put everything in the Lord's hands.
Isn't it the same when He offered His life so we may be saved, "and to give His life as a ransom for many" (Mark 10:45b)? He bought us back from the devil so we may live with Him forever. And He did this, not by money, but through His blood and life.
We may feel anxious, sad, depressed today about things that we do not even know will really happen. So, why not kneel in prayer and talk to Him. Open your heart and tell Him what and how you feel today. Cry with Him and let Him caress you with His love, fully understanding in the end, that everything will be alright. That, everything will be for the good of everyone, not just yours.
I put everything in the Lord's hands now. I trust in Him for He loves me.
+ Let us pray: Lord Jesus, I feel very low these days. Maybe, I did forget Your promise of life. Maybe, I lost trust in You. Lift up my spirit, Lord and open my heart to your Words. You died for us so that we may live. May we never ever forget this. Amen +
Tuesday, August 11, 2015
SA KANYANG HARAPAN, NASAAN KA?
Mga Awit 73:28 - "Ngunit sa sarili, tanging hangarin ko, sa piling ng Diyos
manatili ako! Sa piling ng Panginoong
Yahweh, ako'y mapanatag, ang kanyang ginawa'y aking ihahayag."
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Dahil na rin sa mga makabagong teknolohiya tulad ng "tablet" at "celphone", malimit na lamang tayong nakatutok sa mga ito. Nalilimutan na minsan nating kumain, matulog sa tamang oras, o makalagpas sa ating patutunguhan.
"Sensya na ha, may tinignan lang ako na post". "Sorry, ha, kasi may sinasagot lang ako na text." "Ay nandyan ka pala, di kita napansin."
Hindi ba't pamilyar din ito pagdating sa ating espirituwal na buhay?
"Sensya na Lord, di ako makakasimba, at may pupuntahan akong party".
"Sorry po, at wala akong barya, pambigay sa pulubi kanina."
"Hindi ako pwede sa bible study, at bawal ako mapuyat."
Hindi man nya kailangan gawin, patuloy pa ring kumakatok sa iyong puso ang Panginoon, upang makipag-usap sa iyo. Nais niyang makasama ka, kahit sandali lamang, dahil alam nyang abala ka sa ibang bagay.
Pero, bakit hindi mo pa rin maibigay kahit na isang oras ng Linggo upang makinig ng misa, or kalahating oras upang mag-Rosaryo?
At sa lahat ng pagkakataong kaharap mo sya, nasaan ang iyong diwa? Nasaan ka? Nawa'y sa susunod na Siya naman ang kailanganin mo, hindi naman ikaw ang magtatanong ng "Panginoon, nasaan Ka?"
+ Manalangin tayo: Panginoon, lagi kang nasa buhay ko, ngunit bakit hindi ko ito alintana? Turuan mo po akong patuloy na pakinggan ka at sundin ang loob mo. At laging manalig na nandyan ka lamang sa aking piling. Amen +
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Dahil na rin sa mga makabagong teknolohiya tulad ng "tablet" at "celphone", malimit na lamang tayong nakatutok sa mga ito. Nalilimutan na minsan nating kumain, matulog sa tamang oras, o makalagpas sa ating patutunguhan.
"Sensya na ha, may tinignan lang ako na post". "Sorry, ha, kasi may sinasagot lang ako na text." "Ay nandyan ka pala, di kita napansin."
Hindi ba't pamilyar din ito pagdating sa ating espirituwal na buhay?
"Sensya na Lord, di ako makakasimba, at may pupuntahan akong party".
"Sorry po, at wala akong barya, pambigay sa pulubi kanina."
"Hindi ako pwede sa bible study, at bawal ako mapuyat."
Hindi man nya kailangan gawin, patuloy pa ring kumakatok sa iyong puso ang Panginoon, upang makipag-usap sa iyo. Nais niyang makasama ka, kahit sandali lamang, dahil alam nyang abala ka sa ibang bagay.
Pero, bakit hindi mo pa rin maibigay kahit na isang oras ng Linggo upang makinig ng misa, or kalahating oras upang mag-Rosaryo?
At sa lahat ng pagkakataong kaharap mo sya, nasaan ang iyong diwa? Nasaan ka? Nawa'y sa susunod na Siya naman ang kailanganin mo, hindi naman ikaw ang magtatanong ng "Panginoon, nasaan Ka?"
+ Manalangin tayo: Panginoon, lagi kang nasa buhay ko, ngunit bakit hindi ko ito alintana? Turuan mo po akong patuloy na pakinggan ka at sundin ang loob mo. At laging manalig na nandyan ka lamang sa aking piling. Amen +
Monday, August 10, 2015
SAY IT WITH LOVE
1 John 4:19 - "We love because He first loved us."
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"I Love You".
This is by far, the greatest statement we can say to another person. It encompasses everything, for you cannot really love, if you were not loved in the first place. You cannot give love, if you did not experienced it first-hand.
And such should be our continuing relationship with the Lord. A life full of love - both receiving and giving. It would not only make a big difference in your life, but in the life of others as well.
As you leave your house today, do not forget to say "I love you" to your spouse and kids. As you meet people along the way, do not be ashamed to tell them "God bless you" or "God loves you".
And as you kneel and pray today, affirm that same love by saying, "I love you, Lord" for all the love He bestowed in you so you may love others in return.
+ Let us pray: Lord God, I love you. Let me give back to You all the blessings of love You bestowed to us, for You have loved us first. And by giving that same love to others, may they also realize that they are also loved. Amen +
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"I Love You".
This is by far, the greatest statement we can say to another person. It encompasses everything, for you cannot really love, if you were not loved in the first place. You cannot give love, if you did not experienced it first-hand.
And such should be our continuing relationship with the Lord. A life full of love - both receiving and giving. It would not only make a big difference in your life, but in the life of others as well.
As you leave your house today, do not forget to say "I love you" to your spouse and kids. As you meet people along the way, do not be ashamed to tell them "God bless you" or "God loves you".
And as you kneel and pray today, affirm that same love by saying, "I love you, Lord" for all the love He bestowed in you so you may love others in return.
+ Let us pray: Lord God, I love you. Let me give back to You all the blessings of love You bestowed to us, for You have loved us first. And by giving that same love to others, may they also realize that they are also loved. Amen +
Sunday, August 9, 2015
HIS LOVE IS ETERNAL
John 6:42b - "Then, how can He say, 'I have come down from heaven'?"
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We heard His name since the time we start to understand and talk. Our parents would teach us about Him. We would learn about Him in school and most of us will attend His feast every Sunday.
But for most of us, our knowledge about the Lord Jesus Christ stops there. And we would only go to Him and try to know Him again in times of trouble, pain and sufferings.
He is our Lord, He is our Savior. He died for our sins, so we may have eternal life. It would be difficult for us to understand these, but if we only put it in one word, then all of us can understand.
And that word is LOVE. As we love our parents, our spouses, our children, so is the same love that permeates when God gave His only begotten Son to die for us, so we may join Him eternally at peace in heaven, where He came from.
In joys and sufferings, in good and bad days, accept Him today in your hearts. Accept Him as your love and Savior. Accept His love and give the same love to others.
+Let us pray: Lord Jesus, you continue to love us. In spite of the wrongdoings we do, you continue to look after us for you are love personified. May we continue to live in Your love and extend that same love to others so, in the end, that same love will permit us to join You in heaven, forever. Amen+
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We heard His name since the time we start to understand and talk. Our parents would teach us about Him. We would learn about Him in school and most of us will attend His feast every Sunday.
But for most of us, our knowledge about the Lord Jesus Christ stops there. And we would only go to Him and try to know Him again in times of trouble, pain and sufferings.
He is our Lord, He is our Savior. He died for our sins, so we may have eternal life. It would be difficult for us to understand these, but if we only put it in one word, then all of us can understand.
And that word is LOVE. As we love our parents, our spouses, our children, so is the same love that permeates when God gave His only begotten Son to die for us, so we may join Him eternally at peace in heaven, where He came from.
In joys and sufferings, in good and bad days, accept Him today in your hearts. Accept Him as your love and Savior. Accept His love and give the same love to others.
+Let us pray: Lord Jesus, you continue to love us. In spite of the wrongdoings we do, you continue to look after us for you are love personified. May we continue to live in Your love and extend that same love to others so, in the end, that same love will permit us to join You in heaven, forever. Amen+
Saturday, August 8, 2015
PURITY OF THE HEART
Psalms 51:10 - "Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit in me."
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We all live in an evil world, and yes, sad to say, it affects us almost everyday.
Temptations, vices, lust, greed, envy... we face them head on. Some of us will just veer away, but most will just take it and do it. So what, everyone is doing it, so why can't I do it, too?
And the more our heart becomes impure, and separates ourselves from God.
But the good news? The Lord is more than willing to forgive us. He is more than willing to accept us again in His family. We are all prodigal sons. And we are all entitled again to His love, blessings and fullness of life in Him.
So, go on. Accept Him again in your heart. Ask for forgiveness. Confess all your since, and sin no more. He is waiting for you, for He knows that one day, some day, you will be with Him.
+ Let us pray: O God, I went against Your will. I accepted all the bad things that this world got to offer. And I separate my life from You. You are the only One I should follow, God. I am going back to You. Create in me a pure heart again, as I ask for your forgiveness and follow Your will, until that time we meet in Heaven. Amen +
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We all live in an evil world, and yes, sad to say, it affects us almost everyday.
Temptations, vices, lust, greed, envy... we face them head on. Some of us will just veer away, but most will just take it and do it. So what, everyone is doing it, so why can't I do it, too?
And the more our heart becomes impure, and separates ourselves from God.
But the good news? The Lord is more than willing to forgive us. He is more than willing to accept us again in His family. We are all prodigal sons. And we are all entitled again to His love, blessings and fullness of life in Him.
So, go on. Accept Him again in your heart. Ask for forgiveness. Confess all your since, and sin no more. He is waiting for you, for He knows that one day, some day, you will be with Him.
+ Let us pray: O God, I went against Your will. I accepted all the bad things that this world got to offer. And I separate my life from You. You are the only One I should follow, God. I am going back to You. Create in me a pure heart again, as I ask for your forgiveness and follow Your will, until that time we meet in Heaven. Amen +
Friday, August 7, 2015
IN SICKNESS, COMES BLESSINGS
Matthew 5:4 - "Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted."
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Would you believe in this? Or do you just believe that blessings only comes in good things - money, good food, good friends?
How about the disciples? Have they lived in worldly abundance when they followed the Lord? In fact, even after the Lord ascended to heaven, they were prosecuted more. So, why are they called "blessed"?
Truly, the earthly definition of being "blessed" is totally different from how the Lord wants us to experience it. It is being with Him, totally trusting Him, listening to His Words and carrying our cross. For our true rewards is not in this world, but in that Place He prepared for us in His Kingdom.
Are you now in pain? Are you now suffering? Do you now feel you are alone? Then do not worry. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven (Matthew 5:12a).
Let us pray: Lord God, you alone is my rest. And my heart is restless, until it rests in you. Continue to bless me, Lord, in ways that is best for me, so I may continue to serve others to the best of my ability. Amen.
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Would you believe in this? Or do you just believe that blessings only comes in good things - money, good food, good friends?
How about the disciples? Have they lived in worldly abundance when they followed the Lord? In fact, even after the Lord ascended to heaven, they were prosecuted more. So, why are they called "blessed"?
Truly, the earthly definition of being "blessed" is totally different from how the Lord wants us to experience it. It is being with Him, totally trusting Him, listening to His Words and carrying our cross. For our true rewards is not in this world, but in that Place He prepared for us in His Kingdom.
Are you now in pain? Are you now suffering? Do you now feel you are alone? Then do not worry. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven (Matthew 5:12a).
Let us pray: Lord God, you alone is my rest. And my heart is restless, until it rests in you. Continue to bless me, Lord, in ways that is best for me, so I may continue to serve others to the best of my ability. Amen.
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