Fullness of Life

SEE LIFE FULLY (02-16-12)

2012-02-16T21:58:00.000+08:00

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.

TRUE UNDERSTANDING (02-15-12)

2012-02-15T19:32:00.000+08:00

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.

HE FIRST LOVED US (02-14-12)

2012-02-14T10:28:00.000+08:00

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.

THROW IT AWAY (02-13-12)

2012-02-13T15:15:00.000+08:00

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!

ONLY ME TO BLAME (02-12-12)

2012-02-12T10:45:00.001+08:00

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.

CALM MY SOUL (02-11-12)

2012-02-12T10:44:00.000+08:00

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.

HEAVENLY BANQUET (02-10-12)

2012-02-10T13:43:00.000+08:00

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.

ONLY GOOD THINGS (02-09-12)

2012-02-10T13:42:00.000+08:00

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!

GREATNESS OF THINGS (02-08-12)

2012-02-08T16:40:00.001+08:00

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!

LET THERE BE LIGHT (02-07-12)

2012-02-07T16:23:00.001+08:00

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.

SALT AND LIGHT (02-06-12)

2012-02-06T23:16:00.000+08:00

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.

REST A WHILE (02-05-12)

2012-02-05T06:50:00.000+08:00

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.

NOW AND FOREVER (02-04-12)

2012-02-05T06:49:00.002+08:00

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.

ACCEPT HIS WORD (02-03-12)

2012-02-03T16:09:00.001+08:00

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…

SUSTAIN ME, LORD (02-02-12)

2012-02-03T16:08:00.001+08:00

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!

BE CURED (02-01-12)

2012-02-01T11:27:00.000+08:00

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.

I’M COMING HOME (01-31-12)

2012-01-31T21:00:00.000+08:00

Mark 5:19
“Go home to your family and announce to them all that the Lord in his pity has done for you.”
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You have to leave home thinking that you cannot take it anymore – maybe an abusive father, or a nagging wife, or a dishonest husband… or maybe because you just want to have your freedom or be independent.

Still, there are those who have not left home, but still are being missed by their family. A very busy husband, a rebellious son or a gambler wife – who would rather spend most of their time with their friends or work than with their family at home.

In our life, we may have experienced either one. We may have experienced being away for so long, that we already forgot the love and warmth that belonging to a family gives.

And then we start to question God, “why?” But sometimes, it is too late.

The family now is in constant attack brought by wrong ideals as shown in mass media and some people who want to challenge the power of God. Yes, Satan is alive, and breaking up the family is his main concern.

But God would not allow it to happen. And as family and children of God, we should not allow that to happen.

Armed with faith, you can stand firm and you can create a home worthy of Heavenly Father's children. Obedience, faithfulness, love together with prayers can help repel that evil influences coming into our lives.

Yes, it is hard to cope up… because you are trying to do it your way. So why not do it God’s way? Go back to your family, they are waiting.

Let us pray +

Almighty Father, let me go back to my family. Let me go home and let them feel that I still love them. And protect my family from the devil as we only serve You and You alone. Amen +

Let your hearts take comfort, all who hope in the Lord.

GREATEST IN HEAVEN (01-30-12)

2012-01-31T14:52:00.000+08:00

Matthew 5:12a
“Rejoice and be glad, for your reward will be great in heaven.”
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How can they rejoice? How can they be glad?

When the whole world is against them. When the world seems to be living on a different tune than they are. When the world seems to the one enjoying while they are persecuted, being put down and crushed to the ground.

And yet, yes, they are blessed – full of life, peaceful, joyful, full of hope – for in the eyes of God, they are rich beyond imagination. For being rich in Him does not involve money, but being rich of goodness in Heaven.

They suffer now but they do not blame God for their suffering. Instead, the pain brings them closer to God. They are devoid of pride and full of blessings and inner peace. This allows their heart to accept the Lord more, to repent and to allow the grace of God to accept salvation Jesus’ offers.

He knows how to forgive. Of forgiving offenses that have been inflicted upon him, and in which he only shows mercy towards everyone who does him wrongs, regardless of the reasons and regardless of the circumstances.

And they are of the purest of the hearts. Yes, they know that they are unclean. They know that they are evil in nature. But they allowed God to clean their hearts. God has already removed their heart of stone and gave them a heart of flesh where God’s spirit shall live forever.

How can they rejoice and be glad? Well, they are rejoicing for they have found God in their lives. They are full of gladness because they know that they already have that mansion in heaven as their just reward.

The Beatitudes – what a privileged group. Isn’t it great to be with them?

Let us pray +

Almighty Father, make us thirst for you. Teach us to find true happiness only in You and not from the worldly flesh and richness around us. Forgive us our sins so we may we finally rejoice with You in heaven . Amen +

Blessed the poor in spirit; the kingdom of heaven is theirs!

NOT AFRAID ANYMORE (01-29-12)

2012-01-31T14:51:00.000+08:00

Mark 4:40
Then he asked them, “Why are you terrified? Do you not yet have faith?”
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Many of you may have watched the show “Fear Factor” on TV. This is where contestants are being subjected to various situations that will test their mental preparedness to overcome their worst fears. They will jump on buildings, eat exotic (live) insects, stay in a box with a snake or cockroaches.

Most would not be willing or be able to do what is required. But for some, it was a test of their faith in themselves to overcome fear and come out the winner – better, stronger, a believer in himself.

Actually, we do not have to join this show to experience fear. Every day in our lives, we experience fear simply because we do not have the way of knowing the future.

And so when things goes out of hand, we simply freak out – thinking of how things could possibly go wrong…

…instead of thinking how you can make things right and for the better.

And so we would lock up our teenage son, when we see him drinking. We would harm and say bad things to our spouse when we see him/her talking or texting with a friend. Thinking that stopping them would take out the fear from your heart.

Why not try the Lord’s way? Feel the tap on your shoulder, for the Lord God is telling you that all would be alright. He is continually grasping your right hand in times of trouble and problems. We can fear nothing because God is with us, He will not fail us, nor forsake us.

So the next time you experience storms in your life, allow Him to calm all of your fears as you place your trust in Him. Be a better and stronger believer.

Let us pray +

Almighty Father, me overcome fear of man and of the unknown. I know I can, because I have put my total trust in You. Amen +

Blessed be the Lord the God of Israel; he has come to his people.

ABSOLUTE FAITH (01-28-12)

2012-01-31T14:50:00.000+08:00

Hebrews 10:39
We are not among those who draw back and perish, but among those who have faith and will possess life.
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In elementary school, we would learn about positive numbers and the different mathematical operations. And so, adding a positive number to another positive number will result to a sum bigger than the individual ones.

Then it goes complicated. We were introduced to a concept of negative numbers. Such that adding a positive number and a negative number will yield something smaller – a loss. We would not understand this concept until we are in college or already working when we learn the concept of profit and loss in a business.

But did you know that this would not apply to our spiritual lives?

As a child, we would have a lot of happy moments. We can say that these are positive numbers. And we are always being grateful to God as a result. But as we go through life, negative happenings start to come in.

Negative numbers that when added to our positive total, could reduce our faith in God.

That is what is happening to most of us. But it should not be the case. Adding a negative event to a positive event should yield even more greater faith in God. For those two should work together in making us stronger and tougher in facing challenges that life can offer.

We cannot afford to lose that faith. If that faith goes negative, then we tend to rebel against Him. And isn’t that the reason why Satan is where he is now?

Add your blessings with the absolute value of the problems that comes your way. Increase your faith more and more – in best and in worst.

Let us pray +

Almighty Father, may my faith in You increase more and more. Teach me to overcome all my problems and live a life with You. Amen +

The salvation of the just comes from the Lord.

LIGHT UP MY LIFE (01-27-12)

2012-01-27T07:41:00.000+08:00

Mark 4:21
“Is a lamp brought in to be placed under a bushel basket or under a bed, and not to be placed on a lampstand?”
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Problems would come into our lives. And one or two would test our will, sanity, maturity and faith in God. One that will make or break us.

Our whole being would be covered in darkness. We are paralyzed from the head down. We are numbed and cannot feel anything. We are afraid of anything that may come.

We are lost, would not function normally.

We are dead – mind, body and spirit.

But there is always a way to overcome this. Like when we are engulfed with darkness, all we need is a spark. All we need is to start a tiny light within that may allow us to see life again.

And that spark would provide the needed illumination to let us go back to what, where and how we are before. And as it radiate and glows brighter and brighter, the fear and numbness simply disappears.

Jesus is the light of the world. He lights the way to eternal life. When one accepts Him, He fills that person with light and creates a beacon through that person to the rest of the world lost in darkness.

I got lost, but now I am found. I simply cannot go back to that life of total abandonment before. I shall live my life in the Light of Jesus Christ, knowing that in Him I will not walk in darkness anymore.

Let Jesus create that spark in your heart. And then allow it to burn and burn until it glows magnificently so others may see the Lord in you.

Let us pray +

Almighty Father, let me walk in your light. Help me keep my eyes focused on You each day of my life so that all I see and feel is You. Amen +

Lord, this is the people that longs to see your face.

ENDURE THE PAIN (01-26-12)

2012-01-26T08:45:00.000+08:00

2 Timothy 1:8
So do not be ashamed of your testimony to our Lord, nor of me, a prisoner for his sake; but bear your share of hardship for the Gospel with the strength that comes from God.
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I have the sticker of “John 3:16” and “Jesus” plastered on my bike. And someone asked me if I am with Iglesia ni Cristo (a local religious organization that started in the Philippines).

Actually, there was a case when I was carrying a bible to attend a bible study and a neighbor asked me if I already converted to being a “born-again”.

It was really funny. Philippines is the largest Catholic nation in the country, and yet when someone sees you with a Bible at hand, then you are not anymore a Catholic (sorry, but no pun intended).

We are all called to a life of ministry. The Lord wants all of us to share and testify about the salvation He gives and the love He offers. And we should not be ashamed in doing that.

But a life in God will not be easy. In his letter to Timothy, Paul is clear that there will be hardships. We would experience trials and temptations. Our family and the people we love will be the target of the devil. And once you stop holding on to your principles, you will simply snap and be taken away by Satan.

Pray daily. Profess your love to God always, anytime – when you are sitting, standing, eating, lying on the bed. We all need the strength that comes from God so we can overcome every bad thing that comes our way.

And pray for our family and people we love, so they may be protected with the same mantle of protection so the devil may not again win. Be strong in the Lord and overcome all hardships that come in your way.

Let us pray +

Almighty Father, let me be strong in Your love. Help me endure all the pain, trials, sufferings and temptations. You alone can protect me. Amen +

Proclaim God’s marvelous deeds to all the nations.

WHAT SHALL I DO? (01-25-12)

2012-01-26T08:44:00.000+08:00

Acts 22:7
“Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me?”
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From Saul to St. Paul.

From a Christian persecutor to be one of the greatest disciples, writers and preachers of all time.

And the conversion did not really took a long time. It was less than a week – from the time he was struck by a blinding light to the time he regained his sight back and start telling about the Good News.

And when he was asked by the Lord why he is persecuting Him, he did not say any more reasons or alibis. He simply asked, “What shall I do, sir?” Right there and then, he opened his heart to the Lord, accepting that He is alive and true.

I have been a Catholic Christian for 41 years now, since I was baptized. I may have believed that I already accepted Christ fully in my heart, but sometimes, there were still doubts and fears. I still see life as a blur, and would fall on the side and give in to temptations.

“What shall I do, sir?”

He has given us the Good News. He has died for our sins so the devil would not harm us anymore. But the devil is alive in this world, always stalking us like a fox, ready to devour us whole.

Believe in Him. Do not give in. Hang on to Him. There would be trials but there would also be victories if we learn to put our lives in Him, totally and with hesitations.

Now why delay?

Let us pray +

Almighty Father, what shall I do? I know what to do, but sometimes I would forget. Teach me to rely on You always, totally. Amen +

Go out to all the world and tell the Good News.

SING PRAISE (01-24-12)

2012-01-24T09:14:00.001+08:00

Psalms 98:4
Sing joyfully to the LORD, all you lands; break into song; sing praise.
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Not everyone is gifted with a golden voice. Only a few were given the talent to sing. And these people were given great accolades, got numerous awards and trophies and are known all over the world. And they received all of these because they use their talents to make other people happy.

But not knowing how to sing is not enough reason not to sing praises to the Lord. We hear people singing videoke songs out of tune, and they still have the gall to sing another and another and another.

But when it comes to singing worship songs during the Sunday mass, that same person may just prefer to be quiet. And why? Because he sings out of tune and doesn’t want to annoy the person besides him.

The Lord is not looking at how well we sing. He is looking at our hearts and how honest are we when we praise and worship Him.

For Him, singing with all our heart is the sweetest tune that He ever hears.

So sing joyfully to the Lord.

Sing songs of worship and praise.

Sing with your families and friends.

But most importantly, sing from your heart.

Let us pray +

Almighty Father, I can sing forever of Your love. Hear my songs of praise. You are my Lord and my God, and my heart would jump for joy just knowing that You are there for me. Amen +

Sing to the Lord a new song, for he has done marvelous deeds.

FISHERS OF MEN (01-23-12)

2012-01-24T09:13:00.001+08:00

Matthew 4:20
At once they left their nets and followed him.
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From being fishermen to fishers of men. This was how Jesus wanted His four fishermen apostles – Simon Peter, Andrew, James and John – to be.

He did not want them to change professions or deviate from things that they do well. But He wanted them to be more than just ordinary people, but a people with a purpose, individuals who would change the world for the better. From being fishermen to fishers of men.

The Lord is calling us in the same way. Maybe, most of us think that leading a holy life is for priests and nuns. And that for us, we can do anything because we are not called for the same purpose.

This is where we are wrong. And this is basically the reason why our lives is on downward spiral, falling over and over again to the traps being setup by the devil. And time will come when we realized that it’s too late for us to recover.

Jesus is calling us to share the Word of God to others. And if you are a doctor, you do not have to quit being one to be a preacher. All you need to do is to treat and cure people to the best of your abilities. Tell them the importance of life so they would take care of their health.

If you are a policeman, show true passion and dedication to your line of work and avoid corrupting yourself to the detriment of your profession. If you are teacher, teach your students well so they would be great leaders of this nation.

Our action and how we live our lives is the best example on how we can influence people. Let us put His words in our hearts and share that same love to others to the best of our ability.

Let us pray +

Almighty Father, let me be what you want me to be. Teach me to share your love to others, and do it well and to the best of my ability. Amen +

The Lord is my light and my salvation.

ISN’T THAT WEIRD? (01-22-12)

2012-01-22T23:13:00.000+08:00

Mark 3:21
“He is out of his mind.”
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If we go with the norm, we are normal people for we tend to do what normal people tend to do.

But if our actions start to deviate from what men define as “normal”, then we would be called “abnormal”, “weird”, “out of his mind”. And so when we start talking about and sharing the life of Jesus to others and the salvation He brings, our friends would start to frown and call us weird.

And for Jesus, this was made worse by the fact that even his relatives called him that way, and even tried to seize Him, maybe to lock him up or bring him to a mental institution.

And what drove them to charge him that way? Because His teaching, for the Jewish leaders, were unconventional. Because his actions deviate from the norm. Because His principle is simply not doable. But Jesus knows that if we want to be perfect like the Father, we need to up the standard, not only one notch, but a hundred-fold.

So merely looking at a woman with lust is already adultery. You do not just love those who loves you, but you also love your enemies. Sabbath is not anymore a day of rest, but the opportunity to experience God’s presence through companionship through sharing. And the demons should not be feared, but rather should be faced head on and be casted out of our hearts.

And even at death, He transformed the symbol of tyranny, sin and death into a symbol of hope, faith and unending love. The cross becomes the symbol of life and salvation of mankind.

How can we say that believing is Jesus is being out of our mind when all He teaches is love? That’s weird, isn’t it?

Let us pray +

Almighty Father, I am abnormal without You. Let me accept the love and salvation You offer and be normal in Your eyes. Amen +

Shout to God with cries of gladness…

LIVE, LOVE, LET GO (01-21-12)

2012-01-22T09:56:00.004+08:00

Mark 3:13-14
Jesus went up the mountain and summoned those whom he wanted and they came to him. He appointed Twelve, whom he also named Apostles, that they might be with him…
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The phone rings. It is the boss… and so we readily take the call, though sometimes, we are reluctant to do so.

The celphone rings. It is the wife… and so we readily take the call, so there would be no more discussions later when you failed to do so.

The Lord calls on you. You turned a deaf ear. He called again, but you are very busy. Then, He called again, “nahh, maybe next time”.

But when you fell into a pit or suffered a big blow in your life, you would like Him to respond as soon as possible… immediately… at an instant! And when you feel He is not responding, you would rebel against Him more.

My friend, He is calling on you today. In fact, He has been calling on You since You were born. And what does he want? He simply wants you to live a life of total commitment to His Word and the principles He stands for – love, life and letting go.

All you have to do is drop everything and respond that call. But be ready, for that will not be a walk in the park.

For true discipleship is found where people are hurting, where people are hungry, where people are oppressed, where people are denied justice, where people are dying.

Answer His call, His Word is life. Talk to Him, He is offering His love. Follow Him, and be ready to let go of all the hurts and sufferings.

Let us pray +

Almighty Father, let me respond to your call. I do know that it would be a very difficult life, but I can always look at it with happiness in my heart. For serving you is the sweetest thing there is. Amen +

Kindness and truth shall meet.

STOP THE BLEEDING (01-20-12)

2012-01-22T09:56:00.003+08:00

Hebrews 7:25
Jesus is always able to save those who approach God through him, since he lives forever to make intercession for them.
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Being a Tondo boy (the village where I grew up), I also consider myself as a Quiapo boy (another district in Manila), since we have a store in this area. On weekends, my father would bring me in our store where I would just sit there all day long. But in the afternoon, my father would bring me to an ice cream parlor and eat a hamburger.

In Quiapo also did I saw the annual Feast of the Black Nazarene where the holy image of Jesus carrying the cross is being pulled by rope through the streets of Manila by devotees, mostly men.

And as young-minded as I was, I would ask my father why they have to do that. Why do they need to walk barefooted and brave the heat of the sun just to have an opportunity to pull the rope. The response I got was nothing special – it is to ask for forgiveness and favor from Him.

I am not to judge them, for I am not God. They may have reasons – different ones. And I may not be able to know all these reasons.

But I know there is a better alternative… oh yes, the best alternative.

Approach Jesus in prayer and accept Him as your King and Savior. Through His mighty intercession, we are given God’s favor, forgiveness and mercy which we do not deserve in the first place. We do not need to whip ourselves, we do not need to nail ourselves to the cross.

For the Lord has already done that for us – His blood and not ours.

All we have to do is believe that He is our Lord. All we have to do is to keep His Word in our hearts and live by it. Then, we are saved.

Let us pray +

Almighty Father, you saved me. Let me keep you in my heart forever. Let Your Word be the light unto my path, forever and ever. Amen +

Here am I, Lord; I come to do your will.

GIVE ME REST (01-19-12)

2012-01-19T22:29:00.001+08:00

Mark 3:4
“Is it lawful to do good on the sabbath rather than to do evil, to save life rather than to destroy it?”
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What is Sunday for us? Rest day, laundry day, drinking time, malling time, strolling at the park, family day…

All of these are correct… and more. At least once in a week, we should give ourselves some time for ourselves or share that precious time with our family – people who have stuck with us through thick and thin, the the best time and worse.

But Sunday has taken an important meaning when Jesus instituted it not just a day of rest, but a day of worship and praise. And as Christians, we are all enjoined to share that day with our God. We have been busy minding our business during the rest of the week, and it is just fitting that we spend a day with Him… that is all He ask of us.

And with Jesus as the Lord of the Sabbath, he broke the previous notion that nothing – totally nothing – should be done during the Sabbath – including making miracles and healing people. Still, the importance of life and doing good takes equal importance.

How can we say that we worship and praise god, and still allow a child to die of hunger? How can we say that we are good Christians, when we know that someone is in need of our help?

Love God and love others… both are equally important. And on Sundays, have the opportunity to experience God’s presence through companionship in a special way. No laws is broken for caring for the needy is obeying the will of the Lord, who Himself, is the “Lord of the Sabbath”.

Let us pray +

Almighty Father, give me rest. May Sunday recharge me and prepare me for the challenges of the coming week. You are my Lord and in You alone do I depend – rest or no rest. Amen +

The Lord hears the cry of the poor.

A THANKFUL HEART (01-18-12)

2012-01-18T15:53:00.000+08:00

Psalms 111:1
I will give thanks to the LORD with all my heart in the company and assembly of the just.
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I have learned to say it at an early age. When somebody gives you something good, say “thank you”.

And so when I receive gifts, money, toys and things that make me feel good, expect the words “thank you” in return.

And as we grow, this has become a habit. A simple token of appreciation, “thank you”. Someone would give us a seat, “thank you”. A person would allow us to go first, “thank you”. Thank you because it made us feel good inside. Thank you because it feels good to receive something good.

But how about when someone hurts us? When someone becomes the reason for our suffering or depression or pain? Do we still have the gall to say “thank you”. Human logic would dictate “of course not”. Human logic would say “that is insane”.

But isn’t it the best time to say “thank you” to God? For it means that we do not live in this world just to receive goodies and be happy. We are also in this world to experience pain and suffering, for that way, we would become stronger, better and closer to God.

Jesus have shown miracles –good stuffs – but only a few believed in Him. He was even called one with the devil. But when people saw how he suffered from the cross and died – all for our sins – then people believed.

Do not look at life on a short term basis. Look at it overall as series of good things and bad things. But out of it will come something better – a life that is worth thanking for. A life of blessings rather than emptiness. A life full of joy rather than pain. And for that, we say “thank you”.

Let us pray +

Almighty Father, thank You. Joy and pain…But I know that at the end of it all, a joyful heart and peaceful spirit will be mine forever. Amen +

The Lord will remember his covenant for ever.

A RENEWED LIFE (01-17-12)

2012-01-17T21:53:00.000+08:00

Mark 2:22
“Likewise, no one pours new wine into old wineskins. Otherwise, the wine will burst the skins, and both the wine and the skins are ruined. Rather, new wine is poured into fresh wineskins.”
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When we were born, we are called “a little bundle of joy”. Our parents would be very proud of us and would dream big things. And when we are baptized, we would receive the Spirit of the Lord and begin the first step in a lifelong journey of commitment and discipleship.

But as we grow up, our bubbly and innocence is being eroded… slowly. Because of temptations and sins, our spirit would rot and our body would feel the pain and sufferings that would go with it.

A once “new and strong wineskin” turns into an “old, rotten one”. And as it rots and rots more, the spirit within dies and dies more. Until it cannot take it anymore, and it burst into anger… anger against men, anger against our parents, anger against God.

And yet, God has given has a new hope. Through the sacrament of penance and reconciliation, we are given a second chance in life. Our spirit accepts again God’s spirit through our hearts and recharge us, so our body would regain the strength it once have to fight further temptations and sins. In it we find God's unconditional forgiveness, and as a result we are called to forgive others.

But, yes you are right… we would sin again and then ask for forgiveness again. Until it becomes a cycle.

Therefore, we need to constantly change ourselves and mend our ways, by praying and being obedient to God and His commandments. As such, we would be able to contain the joy, mercy and glory of the Spirit in our hearts without the possibility of bursting and losing it.

Let us pray +

Almighty Father, forgive us our sins. Make our body the temple of your Spirit – strong and clean, so we may accept you fully and joyfully. Amen +

Rule in the midst of your enemies.

BELIEVE AND SEE (01-16-12)

2012-01-17T21:51:00.000+08:00

John 1:34
“Now I have seen and testified that he is the Son of God.”
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To see is to believe. Most of us have this principle. Unless we see it, actually, in front of our eyes, we would always have doubt or worse, we would not believe anything.

This is the reason why some of us still cannot accept the existence of God. We are breathing the air He provides and so we are alive today. Our heart is beating even without batteries or electricity and so we are alive today. We have people who love and cares for us and so we are alive today.

And still we have the guts to say that “we are doing it our way.” That we are alive because of me and only me.

Yes, people during Jesus’ time is blessed because they were able to see and interact with Him, God who has become flesh. But a very few has really believed He is the Lord and Savior. Even though they see it with their very own eyes – the miracles, the parables, the humility even at death – they would not accept that in their hearts as real.

And so we are more blessed for we believe even though we did not see him in flesh. For we believe because we feel His love all around us. We believe because we fully understand His teachings. We believe because our heart would beat faster and faster with the mere mention of His name. We believe Him because we love and are being loved.

My friend, are you still denying that you have Jesus as your Savior and Lord. Can’t you still accept the Lord in your heart? I cannot blame you. Once in my life, that was how I also felt. But I felt that because I don’t want to believe, because I am afraid of the consequences.

But I am not anymore afraid. For I know the Lord loves me and that love will help me to see life at a different light.

Almighty Father, let my heart see You. You are my Lord and my Savior and you will be forever. Bless our lives as we testify fully that You are the Son of God – my friend, my King and my Lord. Amen +

Here am I, Lord; I come to do your will.

TUMOR (01-15-12)

2012-01-15T22:44:00.000+08:00

Mark 2:17
“Those who are well do not need a physician, but the sick do. I did not come to call the righteous but sinners.”
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I recently had a cyst sticking out of my head. It was only the size of a pin head but grew up to about a half inch in diameter after about 3 months. And how did it happen? Simply because I thought I can “cure” it. I thought it would just heal by itself and be cut-off.

But such was not the case. And so I sought a doctor’s diagnosis and the decision was made. It had to be removed by surgical operation. And so I readied myself and subject myself to a professional’s help.

And only after an hour, my problem of 3 months was gone. I really hated myself for letting I drag for so long when all I have to do is to see a doctor who is far more knowledgeable about the issue than me.

Our spirit, like our body, undergoes the same problem. It gets sick also, because of all the sins we committed. We may not see it, but we constantly feel it because of the heaviness of our heart. But instead of seeking a physician’s help, we just ignore the pain and go on with our lives, thinking it would heal by itself.

Until it is too late. We suddenly see ourselves drowning in fear for we do not know what to do anymore. The devil has totally controlled our heart and our life.

Seek the help of the greatest physician, who is the Lord Jesus Christ. Let Him operate on you to take away those fears, those pain, those sins. The salvation that Jesus offered is for all. But he gave it first to those who are poor in spirits – for He “did not come to call the righteous, but sinners”.

May we, too, live by faith, and not by assumption. We are sinners - spend more time with Him, let us follow Him and earn the promise of Heaven.

Almighty Father, Your Word is life to me and health to my spirit. Jesus Christ is my Lord and I'm a product of His love. I have joy, I have peace. Knowing that I am a sinner, so I seek His love more. Amen +

Your words, Lord, are Spirit and life.

LABING-LY YOURS (01-14-12)

2012-01-14T18:38:00.000+08:00

1 Corinthians 1:4
“I always thank God for you because of His grace given you in Christ Jesus.”
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I fondly call her “Labing”.

And today is her birthday. My wife and best friend for 17 years is celebrating her natal day today.

There were struggles… there were rough sailings… up to now. But we continue to hang on, for we now that the Lord is on our side. If God is with us, then who can be against us.

And on this most important day, I do wish that she continue to do what she likes to do. I may not be there with her sometimes, which I do regret, but I still promise that I shall be with her always.

Through the toughest times, through years and years to come. I do want to grow old with her by my side until the time when we face the Lord.

She is my one and only.

Happy Birthday, Labing!!!

Heavenly Father
We praise You for all Your gifts to us.
In a special way,
I thank You for Tonet.
Bless her always in Your love.
May she ever grow in your faith, hope, and love.

Bless us too, Holy Father,
And this day, and the blessings with which we celebrate.
Help us all to praise You and give You glory
Through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen +

Do not forget the works of the Lord!

ENCOURAGE LIFE (01-13-12)

2012-01-14T10:40:00.000+08:00

Hebrews 3:13
Encourage yourselves daily while it is still “today,” so that none of you may grow hardened by the deceit of sin.
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A thief and a murderer was caught red-handed, with the knife he used in killing his last victim still in his possession. He would not show any remorse and asking for forgiveness is far from his mind. And so we would ask – “how can he do that?”

Is it just a spur of the moment? Did he planned that only yesterday or just the other week? Lots of questions, but the answer may be dumbfounding. What he did could be a product of years and years of being neglected, of years of being hardened by the harsh realities of life.

Of years of being away from God simply because no one told him about the Lord and the joy He could bring in his life.

Most of us may be going through or have gone through the same ordeal. Most of the traits and attitude that we have about life today is due to how we were raised, the experiences we had, and the principles we uphold.

And whatever they are and whether they have made you a better or a worse person, just think that the Lord is always and should be a part of it all. We should always take it back to Him, asking for guidance and repentance.

All the sins we have or have been committed to us in the past must not remain in our hearts forever. It must not further hardened our being such that it allows the devil to thrive and dwell in it.

Open your heart to the Lord. Let him soften your hearts and take away all the guilt, all the bad experiences and all the things evil in your heart. Only then can you experience true joy that can make you accept Him more as your Lord and Savior.

Let us pray +

Almighty Father, I open my heart to you. Remove all the guilt and come into my being as I experience true joy in Your midst. Amen +

The Lord hears the cry of the poor.

RISE UP WITH HIM (01-12-12)

2012-01-12T23:13:00.000+08:00

Mark 1:31
He approached, grasped her hand, and helped her up. Then the fever left her and she waited on them.
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Being possessed by a demon is a reality. During Jesus time, He and His disciples has driven out many of them. And what is striking to note is that these demons “knew him”. They knew Him not because they are “friends” of Him, but rather because He is their enemy – their worst nightmare.

But today, we do not see much people possessed by demons. But with the way they act, they look like they are similarly possessed.

They would take advantage of other people’s weaknesses, kill, steal, and commit adultery. But like Jesus, we should not readily condemn them. Rather, we should understand the reasons behind their actions – and help them cast out the demons from their heart and from their lives.

We, ourselves, have our own demons within us. We curse, we disobey our parents, smoke, drink heavily – things that we do that if we allow to continue, would lead to greater evils. Hence, we should stop today.

And how? By allowing Jesus to approach us, grasp our hands and help us to rise up. We cannot forever be defeated by sins. We have to rise up against it through the help & guidance of and obedience to the Lord.

You may have a “slight fever” now. But if you will not cure it, it will become worse until you cannot control it anymore and become the cause of your death. Approach the Lord immediately and let Him cure you. Grasp His hands, pray and rise up with Him against the enemies.

Let us pray +

Almighty Father, I am very sick today. Let me approach You, grasp Your hands so I may rise up again against all the challenges, problems and illnesses of the heart that the devil throws on me. You are my doctor, the one who can cure me of all my illnesses as I faithfully offer my live to you in service. Amen +

The Lord remembers his covenant for ever.

AUTHORIZED VERSION (01-11-12)

2012-01-11T09:27:00.001+08:00

Mark 1:22
The people were astonished at his teaching, for he taught them as one having authority and not as the scribes.
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I have talked about and trained people on Six Sigma, the quality methodology, for years now. And, I have also helped teams to solve manufacturing problems through its methods and tools. Now, can I say that I am an authority on Six Sigma? Yes, maybe, for I have been doing this for 15 years already and holds Blackbelt certification to say that I am.

Now, I am making this daily devotions almost everyday for 3 years now. I have relived my life, I have searched my conscience, I have poked my mind… and searched the Web for answers. Now, can I say that I am an authority on and about God? Definitely, no.

For no one is an authority about Him except His one and only Son, Jesus.

We listen and follow people about almost every things – about diet, being beautiful, being rich, being a good lover. It is easy for us to believe in them and in no time, practice what they preach.

And so, Jesus is sharing with us this love of the Father. He wants us to live a life that is totally committed to Him. He shared parables, stories, sermons and even did miracles for us to believe in the power of God in making our lives the best there is.

And all we need is to read His Word, take It to your heart and apply it to your life. Why is it so difficult for us to believe and practice what He preaches? Start learning about Jesus. His life should become our inspiration and our goal to follow.

Let Him be the one, true and only authority in our lives.

Let us pray +

Almighty Father, You taught us everything about life and how to live it fully. But most of the time, we ignore them and rely on the works of people instead. May we finally accept your authority on our lives. Amen +

You have given your Son rule over the works of your hands.

OPEN WATER (01-10-12)

2012-01-11T09:25:00.000+08:00

Mark 1:17
“Come after me, and I will make you fishers of men.”
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I once owned an aquarium. I was really excited when I started setting it up, putting the water and then finally the fishes. I started out with the goldfishes as they are easy to take care of.

And once they start swimming, I thought they were very happy in their new habitat. Until I observed that they would just go around in circles, limited by the glass walls. There was even a time when one of the fishes tried to “escape” and jumped out of the aquarium.

I just saw it on the floor – lifeless.

Our lives now, as we know it, are limited by the things and people that we see and go out with. And depending on the experiences and people that we interact with, we live really on a very limited space of glass walls.

And the Lord knows what and how we feel about it. We try to struggle against the norm. We try to escape from the reality of it all. But as we do it, the more do we end up lost and “lifeless”.

He is trying to reach out to us, but we continue to struggle to escape from Him. And when things get rough, it will be His fault and not ours. Still, the Lord wants to catch us so He can give us a bigger space where to live our lives – not just better, but the best; not just great, but the greatest.

Allow yourself to be caught. Let Him bring you to a bigger, unlimited aquarium where you can swim and swim and swim with Him. Life should not be just a four-walled prison, but rather an experience of total commitment to His word and a life worth living for others.

Let us pray +

Almighty Father, catch me. I am already tired of swimming away from you. I am already tired of trying to make things happen my way. It is now time to make things your way and so I may experience life fully as I serve You forever and ever. Amen +

Let all his angels worship him.

RENEW YOUR VOW (01-09-12)

2012-01-11T09:23:00.001+08:00

The Baptism of the Lord

Matthew 3:16-17
After Jesus was baptized… a voice came from the heavens, saying, "This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased."
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The tagalog word for baptism – “binyag” – has acquired various usage. Initially, it would mean being baptized, by water and spirit. But, then it would mean, for boys, undergoing the “ritual” for manhood, which is normally done when one reach the age of 10 and up. In general, when it is your first time to do it, “ikaw ay nabinyagan” (you have been “baptized”).

Today, in the Catholic world, we celebrate the baptism of the Lord Jesus in the River Jordan, by St. John the Baptist, his cousin. It signifies both an end and a beginning – playing a significant role in both of their ministries.

It served as the beginning of Jesus' ministry, which soon overtook the ministry of John. Jesus did not really "need" baptism because He was without sin, but was baptized anyway to introduce Himself to the world, and start His ministry of salvation until His death, resurrection and ascension.

At baptism, we accept Christ as our Savior, gained his friendship, the guidance of the Spirit, and the protection of the Father, acknowledging God’s presence in our life.

And we have to continue doing so. We cannot be baptized and just go back to Church when we are married and when we died. We need to renew our vow of being a child of God everyday of our lives.

We have Jesus who loved us so much to die for us, we have the Father who encloses us with his arms of mercy and safety, and we have the Spirit who lives inside of us - even after 2000 years we are still baptizing in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.

Let us pray +

We thank you, God, for the gift of creation, the gift of life and your presence with us. Create new life for us, from the day that we are baptized till the day that we rise in Christ. Amen +

The Lord will bless his people with peace.

REVEALED TO ALL (01-08-12)

2012-01-09T22:13:00.001+08:00

Solemnity of the Epiphany of the Lord

Matthew 2:10-11
They were overjoyed at seeing the star, and on entering the house they saw the child with Mary his mother.
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Jesus was born in Bethlehem. They fled to Egypt and then returned to Nazareth. And He grew up with His parents until He was ready to spread the Good News of salvation. And all of these happened under the watchful eye of Herod and his minions.

And yet, when the Magi looked for Jesus, they were able to locate Him immediately and even guided by a start so they can pay homage to Him. And at that time, His glorious being was shared to the world.

And so, what is it in Herod that he failed to see Jesus? First, because his eyes is closed to the fact that there will be a greater King than him. He lust for power, and that lust covered his eyes to the truth. And he will kill anyone who would try to grab that power from him.

Secondly, because he is a sinful man who would not repent. Being able to see Jesus is to accept all your mistakes and resolve to change and mend your ways. Sinning without repentance is the characteristic of Satan himself.

Lastly, he has everything that is worldly. He has in his disposal a great army, riches and worldly things. And with that, your mind becomes pre-occupied and forgot to think about the Lord who provided you with those.

Let us not be Herod of the modern times. Let us open our eyes, admit that we are sinners, accept Him as our Lord and Savior and totally offer your life in total service and obedience to the one true King and God.

Let us pray +

Almighty Father, You revealed your Son to the nations by the guidance of a star. Lead us to Your glory in heaven by the light of faith. Your light is strong, Your love is near; draw us beyond the limits which this world imposes, to the life where Your Spirit makes all life complete. We ask this through Christ our Lord, Amen +

Lord, every nation on earth will adore you.

COVERED WITH PAINT (01-07-12)

2012-01-07T10:28:00.000+08:00

1 John 5:16
If anyone sees his brother sinning, if the sin is not deadly, he should pray to God and he will give him life.
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We decided to repaint our condo unit. But instead of hiring someone to do it, I decided to do it myself. I am not really good at it, but isn’t it just a matter of pour, dip and brush?

And I learned it the hard way. I came to realize that I need to prepare the surface to be painted before. I need to check on the cracks and put patches so the surface would be even. I need to sand the rough surfaces. And I have to wipe out dirt, blotches and dust.

And after doing all of these, only then can I apply the white paint. All the preparations I have done made the surface smooth, clean and shiny. That is because nothing broken or dirty is hidden underneath that white paint.

In our lives also, we tend to cover all our sins with acts of goodness so that everyone would say that we are a better person. We would quote biblical passages. We would attend Sunday mass. We would (sometimes) give alms to the poor so our names would be published and be known by all.

But we know that underneath that “white paint” is a broken and dirty being that is sinning over and over again.

So need to check out the cracks, the dirt, and the dust in our lives. We need to take them out by repenting. We should ask God to forgive all our sins, trying to sin no more as we start covering our self with His white paint of protection. And in so doing, the white paint does not become just a cover, but a replacement of our old self.

Repent now and throw away your old self. Tomorrow may be too late.

Let us pray +

Almighty Father, forgive us our sins. Take away all the dirt, cracks and dust from our old self as we prepare to accept the white paint of a new life that you are preparing for us. Forgive us, Lord, we ask in Jesus name, Amen +

The Lord takes delight in his people.

LIFE IN JESUS (01-06-12)

2012-01-07T10:27:00.000+08:00

Luke 18:7
God gave us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. Whoever possesses the Son has life…
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Eternal life. Do you know how long it is? 1,000 years, 1 million years… well, these numbers doesn’t even come close. Eternal is eternal… immeasurable. And that is the life God is preparing for us in Heaven, a life of eternal joy and peace with Him.

But how can we achieve that eternal life in Heaven. By knowing and acknowledging that His Son, our Lord Jesus Christ is our one true King, Lord and Savior. Well, it may sound easy, isn’t it?

But, I am telling you, IT IS NOT!!! It would entail total sacrifice on your part here on earth so God can tell whether you are worthy of Heaven.

And this sacrifice is summarized in one sentence – “carry your own cross and follow Him”. Does it mean carry your burden? Does it mean carry all your problems? Well, yes. But take note of the second part of this sentence – “and follow Him.”

As we follow His example, our burdens become light as we learn to cope up with our problems, as we start resisting temptations, as we start dying to ourselves and start living for others. And in the end, He will take all those burdens from our shoulders, and finally allow us to come to Him to experience total, complete and eternal rest.

My friend, we all are experiencing great burdens in our lives today. Burdens and problems that can break us. Let us pray that we can overcome all of these. Give them all to Him and experience the rest we all deserve.

Let us pray +

Almighty Father, I may be carrying the cross that you have given me. It may be very heavy, but its heaviness is nothing to all the burdens your Son has to carry on His shoulder to save us all from the devil. Let me believe in you and let me allow you come into my life as I look forward to that eternal rest in Heaven with you. Amen +

Praise your God, O Zion.

FAITH CONQUERS ALL (01-05-12)

2012-01-06T12:50:00.000+08:00

1 John 5:3-4
His commandments are not burdensome, for whoever is begotten by God conquers the world. And the victory that conquers the world is our faith.
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During the ancient times, kingdoms would build large armies and armories to take over other kingdoms. Nowadays, nations would build nuclear armory with the purpose of conquering other nations. They would need to do this since they know that they are meeting, head-on, nations that may be bigger and stronger than they are.

So they continue to build their defenses as well as their offenses, making sure not to overlook any instances that the enemies can enter and defeat them. Preparation becomes the key to victory.

How about in our lives now? Did you know that we are constantly bombarded by temptation and invitation to sin from no other that the devil? But why are we not even putting on an “armor” that would help us defend ourselves? Instead, we would accept them “wholeheartedly”, saying that “well, I am just a man… there is nothing I can do about it.”

Yes, you are right, we are just mere mortals of this world. But, no, you are wrong – there is something you can do about it. This is the reason why we need God more in our lives. He should be the shield that will protect us from the devil, and the sword that will help us slay him completely.

Hear the Word of God. And apply them in your life. You just cannot accept your armor of protection and then just put it away. You need to put them on and be protected from all the harm and temptation that would come your way. Our God is the greatest God, and nothing can defeat Him.

So what are you waiting for? Get the armor, that shield and that sword and be ready to conquer the world in God’s name and honor.

Let us pray +

Almighty Father, be my armor and be my shield so I can resist temptation. Be my sword so I can slay the devil from my life. Protect us always from Satan as we conquer the world in Your name. Amen +

May his name be blessed forever…

PERFECT IN LOVE (01-04-12)

2012-01-05T00:21:00.001+08:00

1 John 4:18
There is no fear in love, but perfect love drives out fear because fear has to do with punishment, and so one who fears is not yet perfect in love.
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Only God is perfect. But He wants us to also be one. And yet, we always think that we cannot possibly be perfect.

And how can we be, if we do not even attempt to go that way of perfection? We fear that people will taunt us, that people will not believe us, that people will only say that we are just doing this to show-off.

If this is how we think, then we are really doomed to fail. But the Lord is clear that the first thing that we need to do is to love. Love God first then those that are near to you, and then others.

Love God first. Follow His commandments. Follow the sacraments that He gave us. Yes, we can fail, be tempted and then sin, but God is giving us another chance… and another and another and another. He simply doesn’t give up. It is us who gives up… so, get up and going. He is there waiting.

Then love our family. They are the stronghold of our being. We turn to them for strength. I failed my family on this one once, but I am trying to get back again to them. I should be their strength as God is my strength and my power. I do hope and pray that I will succeed for I cannot lose them again.

Finally, love others. Even your enemies. This is the perfection God wants us to go through. Giving and loving. Loving and giving. If you can start caring for others, then you must already have learned and continued loving God and your family. You must have already taken out all the fears from your life and started living a life totally dedicated to God.

And that, my friend, is perfection.

Let us pray +

Almighty Father, I may not be perfect but in Your eyes, I can be one. Teach me to learn to live a life full of love – love for You, my family and others. Take away all the fears in my life towards perfection in You. Amen +

Lord, every nation on earth will adore you.

HE LOVED US FIRST (01-03-12)

2012-01-05T00:19:00.000+08:00

1 John 4:7
Beloved, let us love one another, because love is of God…
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A man once remarked that he has only one wife but several mistresses. For he is just following what the Bible says… “Love one another, for God is Love”. What a flawed logic… using God’s name in vain and committing adultery at the same time!!!

Let us all be aware that the Bible in English is just a translation from ancient languages. And in Greek language, the word “love” takes on different Greek words – storge, philia, eros and agape.

Storge means "affection" in ancient and modern Greek. It is natural affection, like that felt by parents for offspring.

Philia means friendship that includes loyalty to friends, family, and community.

Éros is passionate love, with sensual desire and longing and can be interpreted as a love for someone whom you love more than the philia, love of friendship. It can also apply to dating relationships as well as marriage.

Agape is one of several Greek words translated into English as love, one which became particularly appropriated in Christian theology as the love of God or Christ for mankind.

Therefore, we should apply the right love to the right situation. Love for your spouse (eros), love for your family (storge), love for your neighbor (philia) and the greatest one of all, love God above all as He loves you (agape). The word “love” can take on a lot of meaning, but it should be the very foundation of your being, and how you live here on earth as you love others as you love yourself.

Let us pray +

Almighty Father, thank you for the love you have given to us. We know that we are not worthy to be loved, but still you even sent your Son to the cross so we can recognize how you love us. Love us more. Amen +

Lord, every nation on earth will adore you.

ASK SOMETHING (01-02-12)

2012-01-05T00:17:00.000+08:00

1 John 3:22
We receive from him whatever we ask, because we keep his commandments and do what pleases him.
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WHEW!!! Another year has passed. And still, life must go on as we welcome another year. And depending on who we talk to, the past year could either be a better one or the worst in their entire life.

It could be one of the worst for me. But it took out all the best from me and made me a better man. What happened in that year may have sent my life back to where I started, but I know God has reasons for all that happened.

Did it make me stronger? Did it make me closer to Him more? Yes, I do hope. But only the events of the future will help me know that. For what happened to me in the past is a preparation for something better or worse that will happen in the future.

And I pray that I be ready. I have asked Him things, and He may have not provided them all. But I hope that He provided things that would help me overcome all that is coming my way this new year and years to come.

And I will continue to ask for more, things that would make me better and better and better. Things that would please Him. Things that would make me closer and closer to Him until that day when I finally join Him in heaven.

How about you? What are you asking for this new year? Is it to make you worse that what you are now? I hope not. For God can provide everything than can make us stronger. For those things that will not, it may have not come from God. So think again.

Let us pray +

Almighty Father, we thank You for all the things you have given us. And we pray that you continually shower us with blessings in this new year. Blessings that will continue to nurture our hungry and thirsty body, heart, mind and soul. Amen +

I will give you all the nations for an inheritance.

A BLESSED NEW YEAR (01-01-12)

2012-01-05T00:16:00.001+08:00

Numbers 6:25-26
The LORD bless you and keep you! The LORD let his face shine upon you, and be gracious to you! The LORD look upon you and give you peace!
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On this first day of the new year, let me share with you a nice article from Fr. Ben San Luis, SVD of the Philippine Daily Inquirer:

In a cartoon strip of a magazine, a young lad wished his grandfather a Happy New Year.

The grandfather replied cynically: “What is new about it when every year is just a repetition of what has been happening the past so many years.”

“A repetition of what has been happening”? I hope that the time will never come in our life when we feel the same way as that grandfather.

A New Year is always another chance for us to grow as a better person or citizen, a better worker or professional, a better husband or wife, a more virtuous Christian.

As we begin a New Year, let’s THANK the good Lord for the graces and blessings we’ve received. Some pessimist might say, “What’s there to thank when we’re going through hard times?”

(Well, then all the more that we should) Be positive. The trouble with some of us is that we look only for what we don’t have but overlook what we already have. Remember the boy who complained he had no pair of shoes? Then he met a boy who had no feet!

Thank the Lord you are still alive. Remember: Life is not all "sugar and spice and everything nice." It is full of ups and downs. But as long as we’re alive, there is always hope.

Let us pray

Lord God, thank you very much for another year with our family and friends. Bless us continually and may we always seek your name and your mercy as we await in joyful hope for Your return. Amen +

May God bless us in his mercy.

FULLNESS OF LIFE (12-31-11)

2012-01-01T12:38:00.000+08:00

John 1:16-17
From his fullness we have all received, grace in place of grace... while the law was given through Moses, grace and truth came through Jesus Christ.
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In the coming new year, let’s find a quiet place and start assessing ourselves. Do we need sharpening as we face new challenges in life?

Make plans to sharpen our skills, our knowledge and of course, our spirit.

God will continue to sharpen us, for we are the swords God has chosen to sharpen others for His great work until the end of time.

Almighty Father, sharpen me. May I continue to grow in You, continually learning Your words, understanding Your will and doing what is right. I submit myself to Your Son, Jesus so we see Him clearly as His kingdom come in our lives and in the world!

Oh Lord, Your word is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart. We pray for each other today, as we share Your great work with each other through our friendships.

Sing to the LORD a new song; sing to the LORD, all you lands.

REMAIN IN HIM FOREVER (12-30-11)

2011-12-30T09:53:00.000+08:00

1 John 2:16
For all that is in the world, sensual lust, enticement for the eyes, and a pretentious life, is not from the Father but is from the world.
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Seeing those children dressed in new clothes, walking down the street from house to house, at Christmas morning, would bring back memories of my childhood, as we do the same together with my kid brother and some friends.

We would visit our godfathers and godmothers, expecting to get something in return – a gift or some money. And we would prefer the latter, for it can be used to buy something that we need.

And in this material world, children would continue to ask for material things as gift during Christmas time. Are they at fault? Of course not! They are just living a life in which they were raised – a life full of materialism, yearning for more that is from this world.

And as parents, we need to start guiding them – teaching them that there is more than just the richness of this world. We should start teaching them about the richness that is heaven. Richness that would forever be in them. Richness that would never be destroyed.

This new year, may we all remember the true gift of Christmas – Jesus Christ, our Lord so that we may forever inherit the richness of heaven.

Teach that to our children. Teach that to ourselves.

Let us pray +

Oh Lord, as we look at the vastness of the universe that the You have created, we are overwhelmed with Your love. What comfort, what peace and what joy do we constantly feel under Your immense greatness. May the new year brings us more blessings, for in Your name, we put our trust. Amen +

Let the heavens be glad and the earth rejoice!

THE TRUTH IN US (12-29-11)

2011-12-30T09:51:00.002+08:00

1 John 2:3-4
Whoever says, “I know him,” but does not keep his commandments is a liar, and the truth is not in him. But whoever keeps his word, the love of God is truly perfected in him.
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As a child, we are all hungry for knowledge. We would believe whatever our teacher or our parents would tell us. For us, these are “gospel” truths simply because we trust them and that they are telling the truth.

And yet, when someone starts preaching us about God’s gift of salvation through the Lord Jesus Christ, we would prefer to think about it the more than just believing on it outright.

We all knew about the commandments of God, and still, we break at least one of them, telling ourselves that one would not hurt.

Why? Is it because we simply do not believe that God really exist? Or yes, we do, but our hardened heart simply pushes away God from our being?

Whatever the reasons are, we do need to keep God in our hearts and follow his words and commandments. We cannot always say that I would just ask for forgiveness tomorrow… for tonight, you may not wake up.

Take that path towards perfection… we may not all be perfect, but with God in our heart, everything would be done in perfection.

Let us pray +

Almighty Father, blessed are we, because we have known You! Blessed are we, because we have believed in You! Blessed are we, because we bear Your wounds and the sign of Your Blood on our contenances! Blessed are we, because You are our great hope! Blessed are we, because You are our God forever! Amen +

Let the heavens be glad and the earth rejoice!

RISE AND FLEE (12-28-11)

2011-12-28T18:40:00.001+08:00

Feast of the Holy Innocents

Luke 21:36
“Rise, take the child and his mother, flee to Egypt, and stay there until I tell you. Herod is going to search for the child to destroy him.”
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Two-thousand years ago, the devil used Herod to execute all innocent male children in Bethlehem the hope of killing the Child Jesus.

Today, the devil is using another tool to take that innocence out of our children –
…taking their mind out from godly existence
… and to live a life full of lust and worldly anxieties,

All for this, in the hope of killing Jesus in their hearts.

We can now see it everywhere – the magazines we read, the songs we sing, the music we dance to, the billboards along the busy highways – pictures or themes or messages that promote sex and sexuality.

And the bad news is that these same messages are picked-up by our children.

Today’s sex-obsessed culture forces children into roles they are not mentally, physically or emotionally ready to handle.

Innocence is dying in our children.

When will parents act like adults and rise up to say, “enough!”?

Let us pray +

Oh Lord, through our prayers, may we reach purity. Through our prayers, may we be example of purity. Through our prayers, may we teach others purity. Through our prayers, let all things we are become pure.

Amen +

Our soul has been rescued like a bird from the fowler’s snare.

GOD BLESS OUR FAMILY (12-27-11)

2011-12-27T16:05:00.000+08:00

The Holy Family of Jesus, Mary and Joseph

Colossians 3:18-19
Wives, be subordinate to your husbands, as is proper in the Lord. Husbands, love your wives, and avoid any bitterness toward them.
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Rich or poor, there is no woman or man here on earth who is part of a family. And in this Christmas season, it is always a great feeling to be with your family to celebrate the season.

And together, we must aspire to be a part of a bigger family – to be a member of God’s family.

I invite you this day to join it without delay. Open your eyes to see the value of your soul, the sinfulness of sin, the holiness of God, and the present danger of your present condition, the absolute necessity of a mighty change.

Open your eyes to see these things, and repent this very day. See how Jesus has loved you, lived for you, died for you, risen again for you, and obtained complete redemption for you. See how he offers you free, full, immediate pardon, if you will only believe in Him.

Open your eyes to see these things.

Seek Christ at once. Come and believe in Him, and commit your soul to His keeping this very day.

Almighty Father, we thank You for the gift of family. We acknowledge that our image and name as family come from you.

We believe that within our family lies a homemade holiness.

We are Family.

We give thanks to You for the many joys and blessings that have come to us by being a part of Your family.

Amen +

Blessed are those who fear the Lord and walk in his ways.

BECAUSE OF MY NAME (12-26-11)

2011-12-27T08:46:00.001+08:00

Matthew 10:22
You will be hated by all because of my name, but whoever endures to the end will be saved.
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A day after Christmas, we commemorate the life and death of the first saint – St. Stephen, who died at the hands of Saul (who later became Paul, and became a great defender of the Christian faith).

This tells us that in our Christian life, not everything is fun, merry-making and celebration.

Yes, we can have Him more and more and more, overflowing from our hearts so we can have the chance to share Him with others.

But be reminded also that we would be hated because of Him, and yet we must endure everything for His name. He came to the world not to enjoy life, but to suffer and die for our sins.

So, we, too, did not come to the earth to enjoy it, but rather so others may enjoy life with God.

That is why we have the Holy Spirit, to help us through these trials and tribulations. We must remember Who we are, Who’s we are with, and What we have. We have the Spirit of God Himself living and breathing in us.

We are built to last.

God will never put more on us than we can bear. And always remember that Christ’s suffering on our behalf is infinitely far greater than our suffering on His behalf will be.

Let us pray +

Almighty Father, receive my spirit and do not hold this sin against those who hates me. We love you because You loved us first. Amen +

Into your hands, O Lord, I commend my spirit.

CHRISTMAS TIME (12-25-11)

2011-12-26T09:08:00.000+08:00

The Nativity of the Lord

Titus 3:4-6
He saved us through the bath of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit, whom he richly poured out on us through Jesus Christ our savior, so that we might be justified by his grace and become heirs in hope of eternal life.
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MERRY CHRISTMAS TO EVERYONE AND ALL!!!

Amidst the giving of gifts, the excitement of children and the cooking of traditional dinners, it is easy to miss “the reason for the season”, the birth of God's son, Jesus Christ. There are several ways of bring Jesus back into our family celebrations of Christmas, including masses and church services.

Oh Lord Jesus, it's Your birthday!

Let's praise You, the king we adore. We raise our hands, loudly sing, praise and honor to the King of Kings who is born today to be our light, our life, our way!!!

Let us rejoice in Your love with the joyous heart of a child. And then, like a jolly laughing Santa, we go out and share it with the whole world.

And as we await Your second coming, may we live our lives in total surrender to Your love, mercy and compassion.

A light will shine on us this day: the Lord is born for us.

MIGHTY SAVIOR (12-24-11)

2011-12-26T09:07:00.000+08:00

Christmas Eve

Luke 1:68-69
“Blessed be the Lord, the God of Israel; for he has come to his people and set them free. He has raised up for us a mighty Savior…”
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A Christmas Prayer

Loving Father, Help us remember the birth of Jesus, that we may share in the song of the angels, the gladness of the shepherds, and worship of the wise men.

Close the door of hate and open the door of love all over the world. Let kindness come with every gift and good desires with every greeting. Deliver us from evil by the blessing which Christ brings, and teach us to be merry with clear hearts.

May the Christmas morning make us happy to be thy children, and Christmas evening bring us to our beds with grateful thoughts, forgiving and forgiven, for Jesus' sake. Amen+

Speak from your heart.
Thank Him.
Praise Him.
Glorify Him.

I encourage you to think about what Jesus means to you and your family.

The favors of the LORD I will sing forever…

SILVER AND GOLD (12-23-11)

2011-12-23T13:28:00.001+08:00

Malachi 3:3
Refining them like gold or like silver that they may offer due sacrifice to the LORD.
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Gold and silver…
Symbol of excellence…
… metals that cannot be tarnished.

And to achieve that luster and quality, they were subjected to continuous purification in the hands of an experienced silversmith.

If today you are feeling the heat of the fire, remember that God has His eye on you and will keep watching you until He sees His image in you.

You are being continually subjected to continuous purification. And in turn, you must allow Him to mold you, change you, purify you.

Let Him take away the tarnish so you may exudes that luster that everyone can see.

Almighty Father, keep my heart pure for You. You have created me in Your likeness and image.

You are the absolute example of purity, and to be with You, I must also be pure. And yet, You still love and take care of me, in spite of being impure and disgusting.

Always keep me under the warmth of Your love – molding me, turning me around, heating me up – under Your watchful and caring eyes, until You see clearly Your own image in me.

Let us pray +

Almighty Father, search our heart and cleanse us of all that would keep You from being our “first love” always and in all things. For You are everything to us, for You alone can fulfill our deepest needs. We seek Your mercy, we seek Your compassion as we glorify and praise You forever and ever.

Lift up your heads and see; your redemption is near at hand.

GREAT THINGS (12-22-11)

2011-12-22T09:18:00.001+08:00

Luke 1:49
…the Almighty has done great things for me, and holy is His Name.
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In our life, we tend to expect more from someone or something good based on first impressions.

We would befriend fair-complexioned person because he would be rich.
Men would be better managers than ladies.
Marry a handsome guy or a lovely woman.

In the end, when our choice fails to meet our expectations, we become disappointed, disgusted, with that person or thing. But in reality, we become frustrated with ourselves.

Almighty Father, teach me to be contented for all the great things you have done for me.

We are all your lowly servant, and we should all rejoice for just a mere mention of your name.

Teach me to appreciate everything and everyone that You have given and provided me. Moreover, if anything does not go well – based on how I look at it, and not based on what You want – teach me to trust in You, for You are a faithful God.

You have done so much great things for us, Oh Lord. May we always recognize that as we await the celebration of the birth of Your Son.

Let us pray +

Almighty Father, our trust is in You, forever. Grant us the patience and the ability to accept the consequences of our choices. May we forever be grateful for all the blessings that You have given us. May we see true beauty in everything we have and everyone we love, for they are part of the plan You have laid out for each of us.

My heart exults in the Lord, my Savior.

OUR HEARTS REJOICE (12-21-11)

2011-12-21T12:33:00.002+08:00

Psalms 33:20-21
Our soul waits for the LORD, who is our help and our shield. For in him our hearts rejoice; in his holy name we trust.
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At Christmas time, we were allowed to go home to rest and be with our family after working on a project in our manufacturing plant in Tijuana.

And, I am glad I am still alive – physically and spiritually.

Although, sometimes I feel that the loneliness of being away from your family is eating me alive, and yet I survived.

And going back home for Christmas, thinking of it would give be reason to rejoice and be glad.

For the season of Christmas is a season of joy, of love, of giving and of hope. It shows how God loves us so much that He was willing to give His begotten Son so we would all share with Him is eternal life.

There are still a lot of questions in my heart. But I know God already has the answers to all of them. And all I have to do is believe and trust in Him.

It’s hard to trust sometimes – especially, if you are just putting that trust to a person or something… but knowing that it is to God whom you are putting your trust, is enough reason to persevere. I know, it’s enough.

Let us pray +

Almighty Father, blessed are we, because we have known You! Blessed are we, because we have believed in You! Blessed are we, because we bear Your wounds and the sign of Your Blood on our contenances! Blessed are we, because You are our great hope! Blessed are we, because You are our God forever!

Amen +

Exult, you just, in the Lord! Sing to him a new song.

GLADNESS AND REJOICING (12-20-11)

2011-12-20T11:28:00.001+08:00

Luke 1:13-14
Your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you shall name him John.
And you will have joy and gladness, and many will rejoice at his birth…
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We all know who St. John the Baptist is…

But do you know who his mother is? She is no other than St. Elizabeth. And she has undergone some ridicule herself. She bears no son until the advance age. In a patriarchal honor-and-shame culture, the ultimate blessing for a woman was to have a son, and the ultimate disgrace was not having one. In those days, people assumed that the woman was sterile and at fault.

And yet, Elizabeth is portrayed as the first prophetic figure of the new era, the first to announce the blessing and the blessedness of Mary.

In the story of Elizabeth and Mary, even women in a very patriarchal culture become vehicles of grace, conveyors of the truth, and bearers of the two most crucial figures who announce and bring in the new era of salvation.

Do you love? Do you obey?

Friends, we do not need an angel coming to us in a dream to challenge us to follow God. Instead, we have God’s greatest messenger, His Son, our Savior, Jesus Christ to follow, to serve, to depend upon, and to love.

Let us pray +

Almighty Father, let me enjoy the miracle of waking, when it comes to me; and the miracle of being aware that I am alive—a breathing, walking, thinking proof of Your love and mercy. It is a miracle that You made us, Lord. It is a greater miracle that You tolerate us. We thank you, Lord, with a full heart, for everything. Give us the gift of appreciating You, and all You do. Amen +

My mouth shall be filled with your praise, and I will sing your glory!

YES TO GOD (12-19-11)

2011-12-19T09:32:00.000+08:00

Matthew 1:23
Behold, the virgin shall be with child and bear a son, and they shall name him Emmanuel, which means “God is with us.”
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An angel came to you, telling you that you will bear the Son of God. Imagine the very dire consequence if Mary had not accepted the proposal from God. Or Joseph running away after knowing that his fiancée is pregnant and the father is not him!

Most people agree that if someone says no and they have a good reason, then, that makes the “no” more acceptable.

But for Mary and Joseph, there is really no point in saying “No”.

And God, being all-knowing, knows that they will say “Yes”. This is one of the reasons why Mary and Joseph are regarded with great respect by many people. They showed what the ultimate obedience was.

And the rest, as they say, was history.

Jesus was born, suffered, died, resurrected, ascended to Heaven – all for our salvation; as we await for His second coming.

And this all because Mary and Joseph SAID “YES” TO GOD!

Let us pray, as Advent draws to a close for the faith that opens our lives to the spirit of God +

Almighty Father, all-powerful God, Your eternal Word took flesh on our earth when the Virgin Mary placed her life at the service of Your plan. Lift our minds in watchful hope to hear the voice which announces His glory
and open our minds to receive the Spirit Who prepares us for His coming.
We ask this through Christ our Lord.

Amen +

And blessed forever be His glorious Name…

MARANATHA (12-18-11)

2011-12-18T00:09:00.002+08:00

Fourth Sunday of Advent

Luke 1:45
Blessed are you who believed that what was spoken to you by the Lord would be fulfilled.
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The long wait is coming to an end. As the celebration of our Lord’s birthday approaches, our hearts grows fonder – full of joy, hope and merriment.

Maranatha. “The Lord has come!”

And God has sent Him to be with us because only He can undo what we have done. Only the One who created us in the first place can restore us again. Only our Creator can break down the wall of sin that separates His creatures from Him.

Only He can give their lives the meaning and completeness they were supposed to have.

Only "God with us" can rescue us from the oblivion and death in spirit that we are all heading toward.

Emmanuel. “God is with us.”

In this one name, everything humankind needs and the entire plan of God's salvation has come into being. How blessed we are that Jesus Christ became Emmanuel, GOD IS WITH US.

Let us pray +

Almighty Father, so great was Your love for us, Your fallen creation, that You let Your glory to come here. And through His perfect life and death on the cross He broke down the wall of separation that our sin had built and reconciled us to Himself. Through Jesus Christ, Emmanuel, our sins are forgiven and we have fellowship with You, our Creator again. Amen +

Lord, make us turn to you; let us see your face and we shall be saved.

PERFECT LOVE STORY (12-17-11)

2011-12-18T00:03:00.001+08:00

Matthew 1:16
Jacob the father of Joseph, the husband of Mary. Of her was born Jesus who is called the Christ.
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God had promised long before Abraham that a Redeemer would come.

Had Christ not redeemed us from the power of the devil, the work of redemption would not be perfect.

And in doing so, God had used two obedient individual – Joseph and Mary.

Imagine the gossip, the rumors, the pointing fingers, the whispers behind the back, the judgment and rejection that faced this young couple, on the verge of beginning their life together.

Joseph was a righteous man. He was a man of character, integrity, and the highest of moral standards.

Mary was an obedient woman. She was a woman of humility, loving and caring.

Joseph loved Mary enough to stay with her despite her being pregnant. He loved her enough to raise God’s Son as his very own. She had faith in him and in God that what the angel had predicted would indeed come true.

And together, they raised Jesus in total obedience to and love of God.

Theirs is a perfect love story. So perfect that it gave us salvation so we can be with our Heavenly Father forever and ever.

Let us pray +

Almighty Father, Who loved us so much that You sent Your Son, born of a virgin who was engaged to a righteous man, we are so grateful for Your unselfish act of creation. We offer to You our lives, our beings, our obedience, and we ask that You would help us to live as You call us to live. In Jesus’ precious name we pray, Amen +

Justice shall flourish in his time, and fullness of peace for ever.

THERE IS NO OTHER (12-16-11)

2011-12-16T11:25:00.000+08:00

Isaiah 45:22
Turn to me and be safe, all you ends of the earth, for I am God; there is no other!
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In the Philippines, as in some other places around the world today is the start of the Midnight (or early morning) masses called “Simbang Gabi”. And for the next nine (9) days, a daily novena will be offered as we prepare for the celebration of the birth of the Lord Jesus Christ.

He is our God and there is no other. He is worthy of our praise.

Lord Jesus, You are the way, the truth and the life. As the celebration of Your nativity draws near, may we continuously prepare our hearts to fully accept You as our Lord and our King.

And as we wait for Your glorious second coming, may we continuously prepare ourselves, through Your mercy and grace, to join You in eternal life.

Oh Lord, we are Your workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which You prepared beforehand.

This Christmas, may we let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away and be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave us.

Let us pray +

Almighty Father, blessed are we, because we have known You! Blessed are we, because we have believed in You! Blessed are we, because we bear Your wounds and the sign of Your Blood on our contenances! Blessed are we, because You are our great hope! Blessed are we, because You are our God forever, and there is no other! Amen +

I will hear what God proclaims…

ENTERING THE KINGDOM (12-15-11)

2011-12-15T14:04:00.001+08:00

Matthew 21:31
Amen, I say to you, tax collectors and prostitutes are entering the Kingdom of God before you.
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I pray everyday…
I write daily devotions…
I hear Sunday masses… attend bible studies
Try not to fall into temptations…

And Jesus is saying that “tax collectors and prostitutes are entering the Kingdom of God before you”.

I would say this is unfair.
But God is NEVER unfair.
He is a justly God… He is the god of Justice!
For entering heaven is not just those things I mentioned above.

It is opening our hearts to Him and responding to His every words and following His every will. In Jesus time, these people found life as it was meant to be. Jesus offered hope to the tax collectors and sinners, hope they never before had.

We must now open my heart FULLY to God. And then share this joy with others so they may also fully understand the gift of salvation, the gift of heaven. Only then would I be entitled to it, joining the sinners, like me, who came to know Jesus fully in my life.

Do you only know about Jesus or do you know Jesus in your heart? Have you met Him? If not, tell him you want to meet Him – before it’s too late!

Let us pray +

Almighty Father, please be patient with me as your Spirit seeks to do his work of transformation in my life. I do want to live to honor you and more closely reflect the character and grace of Jesus. Please give me wisdom to know your will, courage to stay away from sin, and a willing heart to seek after you. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen +

The Lord hears the cry of the poor.

TEACH ME, O LORD (12-14-11)

2011-12-15T14:03:00.000+08:00

Psalms 25:4-5
Your ways, O LORD, make known to me; teach me your paths, Guide me in your truth and teach me…
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Life is a continuous learning process. Our parents are our first teachers… then comes our teachers.

We learn so we would grow in life. There are some painful experiences, but we know that these should make us stronger and better.

Lord Jesus has taught and loved us through examples and parables. All we need is to accept His teachings and practice them in our lives. And, as god’s creation, we must humbly ask Him to guide us and teach us.

To be humble means to depend on God, on His grace, to keep ourselves under His guidance, like Jesus, without leaning on ourselves but uniquely on His all-powerful and merciful might.

And through the power of the Holy Spirit, we must learn to be less proud, less greedy, less envious, less anger, less lust… to clean out our soul, in order to fill us with Jesus, with his humility, love, joy and peace.

The Lord Jesus Christ was no religious hypocrite.

He always practiced what He preached and preached what He practiced. He was totally consistent in all of His ways. No legitimate fault could ever be found in Him.

May we, His servants today, become more and more like Him!

Let us pray +

Almighty Father, may we forever embodies humility – make the esteem effort to listen, accept others - no matter what their race, their religion, their education – or lack of it, or their station in life. And we can only show this through service, with great love, to others. May You see the humbleness in our hearts from this day forward. Amen +

Teach me your ways, O Lord.

MAGNIFICAT (12-13-11)

2011-12-13T19:36:00.000+08:00

Luke 1:28
“Hail, full of grace! The Lord is with you.”
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Mary's "yes" becomes joy to all who were in darkness and the shadow of death. Indeed, through her the Lord of life came into the world.

The words of the Magnificat are as it were the spiritual testament of the Virgin Mother. Therefore they quite rightly constitute the heritage of all who, recognizing themselves as her children, decide to welcome her into their homes.

*My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord,
my spirit rejoices in God my Saviour;
He has looked with favour on his lowly servant.
From this day all generations will call me blessed;
the Almighty has done great things for me and holy is His name.
He has mercy on those who fear Him,
from generation to generation.
He has shown strength with His arm
and has scattered the proud in their conceit,
Casting down the mighty from their thrones
and lifting up the lowly.
He has filled the hungry with good thing
and sent the rich away empty.
He has come to the aid of his servant Israel,
to remember His promise of mercy,
The promise made to our ancestors,
to Abraham and his children for ever.

O Mother Mary, help me to keep to my purpose of living as a faithful disciple of Jesus.

I greet you, Mother, morning and evening; from you I hope for the inspiration and encouragement that will enable me to fulfill the sacred promises of my earthly vocation and win eternal salvation. Like you in Bethlehem and on Golgotha, I too wish to stay always close to Jesus. He is the eternal King of all ages and all peoples.

You are the highest honor of our race.

DELIGHT IN THE LORD (12-12-11)

2011-12-12T10:38:00.001+08:00

Psalms 1:1-2
Blessed the man who follows not the counsel of the wicked nor walks in the way of sinners… But delights in the law of the LORD and meditates on his law day and night.
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I grew up in Tondo, a district of Manila. Tondo is notorious for being the poorest and most underdeveloped district of the country. Many of the city's slums are found in this area. And the environment I was in has some bad influence on my formative years.

I learned how to drink alcoholic drinks at an early age. And I would sometimes go home drunk and nauseating.

Later on, I would be enjoying myself going to girlie’s club and watched naked woman frolicking in the stage. All because of curiosity, as what my friends would say… and that was what I believed.

And one day, I found myself asking my own self if I want to continue with this kind of life and totally waste my life altogether. And so 20 years ago, I totally surrendered my life to God… asking Him to totally lead me though life. My life is in His hands from that day forward.

There are still problems, temptations and sinning… but it is a delight to know that God is always looking after me, waiting for me, whispering words of encouragement in my heart. And 20 years after that fateful day, my life is still in His hands.

Let us pray +

Almighty Father, blessed are we, because we have known You! Blessed are we, because we have believed in You! Blessed are we, because we bear Your wounds and the sign of Your Blood on our contenances! Blessed are we, because You are our great hope! Blessed are we, because You are our God forever!

Amen +

Those who follow you, Lord, will have the light of life.

BAPTIZED (12-11-11)

2011-12-12T10:36:00.000+08:00

Third Sunday of Advent

Luke 10:16
John answered them all, “I am baptizing you with water, but one mightier than I is coming… He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire.
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The Lord has come and He is knocking. Let us welcome Him in our hearts. Let our ears be opened so that the full meaning of what he did and said becomes evident to us, and we personally see that it involves us.

He gave us a new life, by sacrificing His life on the cross. May we think about the greatness, the glory, and the wonder of God.

When we come and believe in Him, and keep coming and keep believing in Him, we grow into an intimate relationship with God. And when that happens, we would never let go, for withdrawing away from Him would be unthinkable.

Learn how to share your work, your family life, your personal life with Jesus, to operate in dependence upon his wisdom, grace and forgiveness.

Learn to bring all of your life constantly back into connection with Him.

Learn His Words, read the Bible. Pray constantly and without ceasing. Let Him know what you heart desires and He will give it to you.

Learn to be with Him, always. Totally surrendering your life to Him, for He alone is the Lord, and He alone can give us totally rest and joy.

Let us pray +

Almighty Father, You give us all the gift of faith. You give us all the gift of life. Enable and empower us to see you in all we touch, hear, say, and do. May we not take the obvious for granted but, through you, see all of our lives as sacred and a gift from you. Through our Savior, in the Holy Spirit, we pray, one God, forever and ever. Amen +

Cry out with joy and gladness:
for among you is the great and Holy One of Israel.

CONQUER FEAR (12-10-11)

2011-12-10T16:30:00.000+08:00

Isaiah 41:13
I am the LORD, your God, who grasp your right hand; It is I who say to you, “Fear not, I will help you.”
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One way or the other, we fear something… or someone. I, myself, have a fear of height. I still remember when we were doing some mountain climbing in China. I have to quit and go down because I cannot bear it anymore. My body is trembling, that I have to go down slowly.

But it is great to feel the tapping on my shoulder when we reached the ground, with my wife and kids telling me that it is okay now.

We go through life with lots of fear in life. It even came to a point for some that they would commit suicide just to escape problems in their lives. And this is just because no one tapped him on his shoulder and say, “don’t worry it would be alright.”

Feel the tap on your shoulder, for the Lord God is telling you that all would be alright. He is continually grasping your right hand in times of trouble and problems.

When we have a relationship with God, we can rely on His promises. We can be strong and of good courage. We can fear nothing because God is with us, He will not fail us, nor forsake us.

This is His promise. And as a faithful God, we need to have faith in Him.

Let us pray +

Almighty Father, help me overcome fear of man and of the unknown. May I look up to you and seek Your mighty name so I may not be afraid of being alone, not to be afraid of being too weak, not to be afraid of not being heard, and not to be afraid for our physical necessities. I know I can, because I have put my total trust in You. Amen +

The Lord is gracious and merciful; slow to anger, and of great kindness.

COME TO ME (12-09-11)

2011-12-09T11:10:00.001+08:00

Matthew 11:28
Come to me, all you who labor and are burdened, and I will give you rest.
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After a long day’s work, we all feel tired. And yet we still need to drive or commute back home. We really feel weary that we do not have anymore time to check on our kids, kiss our spouse or even talk at all…

…and yet, we would still have time and energy to open our computers and check on our emails, just in case, that something important came up.

So, are we really just tired physically? Or really tired of this life we have…?

A burden is the heaviness of the heart, soul and spirit. It's something that you might have done or it could be a natural thing that has happened.

May we learn to share each other's burdens, and in this way, our family can help us through it. The rest that we receive, we know we don't deserve it. But we believe that the Lord will give us the ability to have peace and confidence of mind.

We may not remove the whole burden, but we must still come to Him with trust in our hearts; we lay it all out to Him, for we trust in Him forever and our lives to Him we surrender.

What task of yours is too great to bear? Christ wants you to come to him for rest. He will give you peace and ease and comfort. We must not focus on the burden we have. We must focus on how God has blessed us. We must let God handle our burdens.

Let us pray +

Almighty Father, teach me to be a burden-bearer, not a burden-passer. And as I help lift other people’s burden – I know You will lift mine, for You are a merciful God. I shall never think I am too important to help someone, for if that is what I believe, then I am only fooling myself. Amen +

O bless the Lord, my soul!

THE LORD IS WITH YOU (12-08-11)

2011-12-08T11:45:00.000+08:00

Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception

Luke 1:38
“Hail, full of grace! The Lord is with you.”
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Obedience…
Humility…
Modesty…
Immaculate…
Our Mother… caring, loving, beautiful inside and out.

Mary was indeed favored and full of grace.

The Lord of heaven and earth had prepared and chosen her as a fertile ground into which he planted the seed of His Word.

Each of us is now called to become full of grace. The Lord desires to be with us, to live within us in a world that hungers for His love—a love which can be borne in us and offered through us to others.

Mary shows us the way.

She heard the promise, believed, was filled with grace, and conceived the Lord who is Love incarnate. We can do likewise if we learn to pray, to listen, to hear, to respond, to say “Yes”. In doing so we, like Mary, will discover that “nothing is impossible with God.”

Let us pray +

Almighty Father, who by the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary, did prepare a worthy dwelling place for Your Son, we beseech You that, as by the foreseen death of this, Your Son, You did preserve Her from all stain, so too You would permit us, purified through Her intercession, to come unto You. Through the same Lord Jesus Christ, Your Son, who lives and reigns with You in the unity of the Holy Spirit, One God, world without end. Amen +

Sing to the Lord a new song, for He has done marvelous deeds.

OUR HEART’S DESIRE (12-07-11)

2011-12-07T15:08:00.000+08:00

Luke 5:22
“What are you thinking in your hearts?”
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We wake up in the morning doing the same routine… again and again and again. And then we ask ourselves… what do I want to do in my life? Most people question their destiny and purpose for this life we’ve been given.

Many of us don’t recognize our talents or gifts so we seem to float from day to day, doing the same thing over and over.

Our only joy now is an empty weekend that may provide moments of fun and enjoyment. Our joy is only the worldly things that we bought yesterday, and yet it would really not give us true joy.

And then Monday rolls around and we start the same lifeless pattern over again. Almost seems senseless.

Had it even made you think, for a moment, why all these senselessness?

Simple. Because, the Lord is not in your heart. God has created such a beautiful earth, the magnificent world filled with wonders too great to explain. And we only need to enjoy that greatness.

Let Him come to your heart and experience true joy.

For there is nothing better than living in the freedom, peace and joy of having Christ in our hearts!

Let us pray +

Almighty Father, we always think of ways to make our lives happy. But we always fail for we try to seek joy through materialism. Teach our hearts to seek You always for You are our only true joy. Blessed are we, because You are our God forever! Amen +

Our God will come to save us!

DO YOU BELIEVE? (12-06-11)

2011-12-06T11:13:00.000+08:00

Matthew 9:28
“Do you believe that I can do this?”
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I was able to watched “Magic Tricks…Revealed” on TV. This show explains, or reveals, the different magic tricks that the magician employs. And, as it turned out, those are not really magic but a thoroughly conceptualized routines, contraptions and sleight of the hand, as they call it.

And so watching a magic show would never be the same again. With the mystery gone, the excitement goes with it.

The same is true with our faith in God - once we start knowing what will happen to us tomorrow, then our lives become nothing but mere magical routine. We try to control everything in our powers and totally forget what God can do for us…

So, I would rather have a mysterious life that is totally dependent on the Lord, knowing and believing fully that He can do everything for me.

Lord Jesus, You did explained to us that we can have the ability to move mountains and trees, if we only have the faith the size of a mustard seed.

You have challenged our whole being, that our life must be lived in total faith in You - to follow and say what You believe is right, without doubting!

For without faith, it is impossible to please You, Oh Lord, for we must constantly come to You; must always believe that You would reward those who diligently seek You and Your will (Hebrews 11:6).

Let us pray +

Almighty Father, I know that faith is more precious than any gold or riches and due to this, that I would be continuously tested for my faith. Help me cultivate my faith, Oh Lord, that I may do greater things, and even move mountains, all for the glory of Your mighty name. Amen +

The Lord is my light and my salvation.

GIVING AT NO COST (12-05-11)

2011-12-05T09:11:00.000+08:00

Matthew 10:8
Cure the sick, raise the dead, cleanse lepers, drive out demons. Without cost you have received; without cost you are to give.
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When I do consulting jobs, my first question is “what is your budget” for this project. When someone tries to employ me, the first thing that comes into my mind is “that the pay should be better than what I get now”.

The Lord could have done the same during His public ministry. Asking for money in exchange for some miracles.

Imagine this:
Healing leprosy… 100 dinari
Making you see again… 200 dinari
Making a dead alive… 1,000 dinari
Multiplication of loaves… 50 dinari

But this was not the case.
This is not what He taught to His disciples.

Rather, Jesus gives his apostles a lesson about what is priceless –

SERVING: Without cost you have received; without cost you are to give.

So the challenge is to give away what you’ve received. Don’t worry about what it is, or how much you have, or how it stacks up against what anyone else has received.

Just give it away!

It is really hard to do, for we are all attached to these material things. But in giving, we will gain heaven – that is everything! That is, PRICELESS!

Let us pray +

Almighty Father, in Your infinite riches, You have given me everything I have. Show me today how and where to give it away. I believe that even as I do, You will fill me with more and more. Amen +

Blessed are all who wait for the Lord.

SALVATION (12-04-11)

2011-12-03T23:58:00.001+08:00

Second Sunday of Advent

Luke 3:4-6
“Prepare the way of the Lord, make straight his paths… The winding roads shall be made straight, and the rough ways made smooth, and all flesh shall see the salvation of God.”
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Who doesn’t want salvation?

You may say, “Not me!”… and yet, can you answer a straight “YES” when asked if you are going to heaven if you die today?

We would rather spend more time preparing for the party tomorrow. We would rather spend more money buying clothes and gifts. And yet, when it comes to preparing ourselves for the coming of the Lord, we are all clueless on what to do.

In this season of advent, may we be reminded to prepare our hearts for the coming of the Lord. We must prepare a straight path for the Lord, removing all obstacles which stand in the Lord’s way preventing him from coming.

All the crooked ways in our life, all the worldly cravings and sins of the flesh need to be straightened out and taken out.

Let the season of Advent be a time when we look forward with great expectation to the coming of the Lord, trusting that he will do a new thing in our life and in the life of the world, preparing ourselves morally and spiritually to receive Him when he comes.

Behold our God, our Savior, our Lord, our King. He is coming.

Let us pray +

Almighty Father, Lord, our God, we praise You for Your Son, Jesus Christ, for He is Emmanuel, the Hope of all people. He is the Wisdom that teaches and guides us. He is the Savior of us all. O Lord, we should always be ready for the coming of the Master. The Lord will make the darkest places bright, in Jesus’ name. Amen. +

The Lord has done great things for us; we are filled with joy.

BUILT ON THE ROCK (12-03-11)

2011-12-03T00:14:00.000+08:00

Matthew 7:24
“Everyone who listens to these words of mine and acts on them will be like a wise man who built his house on rock.”
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Family…

Ah yes, we always think about them, we always care about them, we always see to it that we keep them forever.

But are we making sure that we are built a solid foundation in our family life so that it will not collapse? Are we making sure that our spouses and kids would act and live as what God wants, so our marriage will not go to waste?

Are we making sure that our home is built on rock?

Building a house on sand means placing our hopes and certainties in unstable and unpredictable things that cannot stand the winds and scorns of time. All it takes to bring everything crashing down is just a little more work, a little time out to enjoy myself… and that “little” would start to get bigger and bigger…

This has got to stop. From now on, let us take the time to appreciate everything that God have already done and given us. And let us start with our own family.

Continue to build your house on rock. And let us start with thanksgiving and praise. For giving our family to us, let us thank Him fully.

Let us pray +

Almighty Father, we should always believe and put our faith in You, Oh God. We have been demanding a lot from You lately, of things that we may not need. And instead of waiting, we show doubt and more disappointment for our faith is rooted on sand. Teach us to build our faith on solid ground and act on Your Words faithfully and obediently. Amen +

Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.

MOVED WITH PITY (12-02-11)

2011-12-02T10:14:00.001+08:00

Matthew 15:32
“My heart is moved with pity for the crowd, for they have been with me now for three days and have nothing to eat…”
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“I do not want to send them away hungry…”

I would sometimes tell my wife whenever we have visitors. So I would ask her to cook or buy something to eat before they leave. Or maybe, so that when I visit them, they would also do the same. Shame on me…

“I do not have spare coins, maybe she can ask from somebody else…”

I would tell my wife whenever a beggar would approach us asking for food or money. And I would not care if she has not eaten for days, as long as I can eat at my favorite food house. Shame on me…

For the Lord is different… Jesus’ heart is moved with pity for everyone.
The hungry…
The sick…
The oppressed…
The lame, the blind…

Jesus’ heart is moved with pity for all of us, for we always put ourselves above everyone else.

His heart is moved for pity for all of us, because we are hungry for love, sick in spirit, and blind to things that would concern us most.

Let us come back to Him and feed on His Words and let our hearts listen to Him forever. So our spirit may feel full, and have that attitude to share that same feeling of fullness and joy with others.

Let us pray +

Lord Jesus, indeed, have pity on us. And then may you finding us sharing your compassion with others who need your pity too. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen +

I shall live in the house of the Lord all the days of my life.

REVEALED TO THE CHILDLIKE (12-01-11)

2011-11-30T23:48:00.001+08:00

Luke 10:21
“…for although you have hidden these things from the wise and the learned you have revealed them to the childlike.”
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We hate changes.

For changes would change the way we live, work and enjoy life. When I have been asked to be a part of the team to go to Mexico to work on a project, I was very apprehensive. A total change in my life as I have to be away from my family – something that never happened to me before.

And due to the toughness of my heart, I was not able to see the inner workings that God is planning for my life. But, through constant prayers, I was able to open my heart.

And like the heart of a child, I listened.

We could only understand the workings and the love that God wants to share with us if we would have the mind and the heart of a child. He doesn’t want us to understand everything but He wants us to trust in Him as we live our life, totally oblivious of what will happen tomorrow.

Always be a kid at heart where even simple things can make you smile. Take time to enjoy the little things, the many little blessings that come along your way. As time goes by, reflect on your childhood days which are now a beautiful memory.

And, life goes on. We live. We love. We learn.

Let us pray +

Almighty Father, thank You for giving me a mind that can know
and a heart that can love. Let me be convinced that all knowledge leads to You and let me know how to find You and love You in all the things You have made. Grant me the grace to put my knowledge to use in building the Your kingdom on earth to prepare myself for kingdom in heaven. Amen +

Justice shall flourish in his time, and fullness of peace for ever.

CALLED TO FOLLOW (11-30-11)

2011-11-30T06:31:00.000+08:00

Matthew 4:22
He called them, and immediately they left their boat and their father and followed him.
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Like new Christs, the Twelve and all the followers of Jesus in history reveal something of what it means to be a disciple. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, they were able to share the Good News to the gentiles and the Jews.

And their faith and love became the fuel that kept the faith burning in the hearts of men up to now.

Following Jesus is about listening and doing.

It is about putting into practice the things that Jesus taught.
It is about a lifestyle of peace and justice that sets one apart from others.

He doesn’t need to interview you.
All you have to do is drop everything and follow Him.

And it would not be a walk in the park with Him.

For true discipleship is found where people are hurting, where people are hungry, where people are oppressed, where people are denied justice, where people are dying.

Follow Him, He is waiting.

Let us pray +

Almighty Father, may our love for You and others be our only concern. And may that love really push us to follow You and only You. We should be more concerned about who we follow such as Jesus rather than what the evil one tempts us to follow. We are Your disciples, forever. Amen +

The judgments of the Lord are true, and all of them are just.

REDEMPTION (11-29-11)

2011-11-29T10:22:00.000+08:00

Luke 21:28
“But when these signs begin to happen, stand erect and raise your heads because your redemption is at hand.”
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Life moves on. Another team, another projects, another challenges. After all the preparations, executions and sacrifice, a project is completed. But another would surely come in your way.

And as preparation is vitally important in everything that we do in life, being prepared is most important as we await the coming of the Lord.

And today, we enter the season of Advent.

Advent is a season of preparation. If the season of Lent prepares us for what happened on Good Friday (execution) and Easter (resurrection), then during Advent, we thank God for Christ's first coming (Christmas), prepare for his final coming at the end of time, and celebrate Christ's presence among us today through the Spirit.

Let us light up the path today for the Lord and prepare His way as He comes to our hearts.

Let Him lift our minds in watchful hope to hear the voice which announces His glory and open our minds to receive the Spirit Who prepares us for His coming.

Let Him prepare our hearts and remove the sadness that hinders us from feeling the joy and hope which His presence will bestow.

Stand up straight with head raised… for we will be with Him, forever.

Let us pray +

Lord Jesus, excite in us a wonder at the wisdom and power of Your Father and ours. Receive our prayers as part of our service to You, our Lord who enlists us in God's own work for justice. Excite in us a joy responsive to the Father's joy. We fervently seek His will so we can serve with gladness, singing and love. Amen +

To you, O Lord, I lift my soul.

VIGILANT AT ALL TIMES (11-28-11)

2011-11-28T07:05:00.001+08:00

Luke 21:36
Be vigilant at all times and pray that you have the strength to escape the tribulations that are imminent…
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At night, especially when walking in a dimly-lighted streets, we are always on the look-out, always vigilant as danger could just be around the corner. We would always look for a well-lighted place, fully knowing that we would be safe…

You could be in the dark today, groping around trying to find that way towards the light. All you have to do is to open your heart to Jesus Christ and let him guide you out of the dark.

For us, as people of faith and hope and love, the Gospel says all we have to do is have courage, hold our heads high, and keep our chins up because Jesus is coming, redemption is at hand, the reign of God is here, and everything is going to be alright.

And in today’s gospel, Luke urges us to spend time in prayer as we remain vigilant at all times…

…for the strength to stand before Christ, to spend time in prayer
…to keep vigil by sitting in the presence of God
And keep talking to God
Keep listening to God’s voice
And be continually in the presence of God.

Be prepared, for the Lord is coming.

Let us pray +

Almighty Father, You are holy and worthy of all our praise and adoration. You are calling us all to a higher standard of integrity and obedience than ever before. You are warning us to walk our walk as You reveal it to us -- and You are calling us to do what we say -- to be doers and encouragers and not just talkers. To You be all the honor and glory! Amen +

“Holy men of humble heart, bless the Lord… exalt him above all forever.”

HIS WORDS, FOREVER (11-27-11)

2011-11-27T10:44:00.001+08:00

First Sunday of Advent

Luke 21:33
“Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away.”
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God is always busy.
He is always busy loving us.
And yet, we busy ourselves with taking care of earthly things.

Some things that are not evil in themselves may have an evil influence if they crowd God out of our lives. Having fun is not evil. But these things may compete with God in our lives if we let them.

Then it becomes evil.

We must make time with the Lord a number one priority. We must be careful or the "busyness" and simple pleasures of life may crowd out our time with the Lord. Spend a personal time listening to and reading the words of the Lord.

He is the beginning and He will be the end.
His words and promises will all be fulfilled.

He has been a faithful God and has given us immeasurable blessings.

Live in Him. Live with Him.
He is our God and His words must not pass away from our hearts.

Let us pray +

Almighty Father, help all who pray to be obedient to Your call when they receive it. Be especially watchful over our church leaders worldwide as their role is key and their obedience vital. Help all of us to learn from our past mistakes so we will not repeat them. Amen +

Give glory and eternal praise to him!

DELIVERER AND SAVIOR (11-26-11)

2011-11-26T04:46:00.001+08:00

Daniel 6:28
He is a deliverer and savior, working signs and wonders in heaven and on earth…
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Savior is defined as someone who rescues another from harm, danger or loss.

So you may ask, how did Jesus became my Savior? Am I in any danger; is someone trying to harm me; or what would I lose if I failed to recognize Him as my Lord and Savior?

Good questions… that would merit good answers. But the answers would only be good, if you would first take away all disbelief from your heart… and start to believe that only Jesus can deliver us from all anxieties, sins, fears and death that this worldly kingdom has to offer.

Yes, we are all in danger of losing a place in heaven. For the devil is continually trying to get our attention… tempting us, so we would join him in hell and be subjected to anguish and pain… forever.

But even as we sinned against God, He would not allow us to suffer. And He sent our deliverer and savior, Jesus Christ, to die for our sins and pay as ransom for the many sins.

JESUS can be fully trusted and relied upon 100% for our personal salvation.

There is no surer source of truth, for He himself is the truth and only way to God. He is our Deliverer, our Savior, our King, our Lord and our God.

Let us pray +

Oh Mighty Deliverer, I can never forget that in my neediness and affliction, You came and rescued me. While I was a slave to sin, you died to deliver my soul. I am free Lord, and such joy fills us me as I walk in the light of Your presence. Deliver me Oh God from the destruction of selfish desires, that I might bind up the broken-hearted in Your name, and set prisoners free for Your glory. I am full of hope, Jesus, my Deliverer, for you have rescued me. Amen +

For he is the living God, enduring forever…

HATED BUT UNHARMED (11-25-11)

2011-11-25T08:25:00.000+08:00

Luke 21:17
You will be hated by all because of my name…
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Have you experienced being persecuted because of your faith? Being imprisoned, tortured because of your belief in Jesus Christ, our Lord?

Today, millions, if not billions of people are being persecuted because of their belief in the Lord Jesus Christ. And it started even thousand of years ago, when the early Christians have suffered and endured persecutions because of their faith.

They were killed and fed to the lions…
They were stoned to death…
They were crucified…
They were burnt at the stake…
All because they love and serve You, Oh Lord.

For that, it is already comforting to know that this has not happened to me, to us. At least, not yet. But if it does happen, and the “opportunity” comes to present itself, I only ask one thing from You – that You may grant me the strength – mind, body and spirit, to accept whatever You what me to do.

In this very dangerous world, we must put our trust totally in Him. Let us persevere in our faith, always praising and glorifying His name.

Ask for forgiveness through our prayers so we may become the true blessings to others. Do not be afraid, for He is our Lord.

Let us pray +

Lord Jesus, there is nothing too hard for You! And you being our Master, should put all our faith on this fact. And every evil, disabilities, sufferings, and disasters of this world would be nothing but mere instances in a likewise ordinary day. Amen +

You have been weighed on the scales and found wanting…

MIGHTY SIGNS (11-24-11)

2011-11-24T12:30:00.000+08:00

Luke 14:11
“Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be powerful earthquakes, famines, and plagues from place to place; and awesome sights and mighty signs will come from the sky.”
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Wars…
Flood…
Famine…
Earthquakes…
You read about them… you hear about them.

Sign of the times… mighty signs that Jesus already talked about two-thousand years ago.

Yes, the signs are there, but no one, nobody, would really know when would the end come. Only the Father knows.

But does knowing the exact time really matter? Do we have to wait for that time, before we repent and accept Jesus as our Lord and Savior?

The time is now! The gift of salvation is not limited to saints, priests, or hermits. Everyone can have their spiritual eyes opened!

Open your eyes to the truth…
and open Your heart to accept Him in your life, not tomorrow, but today.
For tomorrow may be too late.

Let us pray +

Almighty Father, Dear Lord, I ask you to open my spiritual eyes so that I can truly discern the signs of the times. I ask you to give me the grace to walk by faith and not by sight, and to see things as you see them. Amen +

Give glory and eternal praise to him.

EXALTED ABOVE ALL (11-23-11)

2011-11-23T11:55:00.001+08:00

Daniel 3:52
“Blessed are you, O Lord, the God of our fathers, praiseworthy and exalted above all forever…”
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You are omnipresent. You are omnipotent. You are all-knowing. You are omniscient. You are everything, and we are nothing in Your eyes.

And yet, we are the one who has the courage to ignore you. We would sin and commit sin, fully aware that you hate sins. And as we are still sinners, You would send your only Son to die on the cross so we may be saved and be given a second chance in life to be with You forever.

Isn’t that enough so we would repent?

Isn’t that enough so we would worship You and You alone for the rest of our lives?

Isn’t that enough so we would seek Your love and mercy forever?

Thank You, God, that no matter how many sins we commit, Your arms are still open to receive our repentance.

Thank You, God, that no matter how many times we ignored Your Words, Your love would still be there to protect and envelop us.

Thank You, God, thank You.

Let us pray +

Almighty Father, blessed are we, because we have known You! Blessed are we, because we have believed in You! Blessed are we, because we bear Your wounds and the sign of Your Blood on our contenances! Blessed are we, because You are our great hope! Blessed are we, because You are our God forever! Amen +

Glory and praise God forever!

GOD OF THE LIVING (11-22-11)

2011-11-22T09:03:00.002+08:00

Luke 20:37-38
“…He is not God of the dead, but of the living, for to Him all are alive.”
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Resurrection…
Life after death…
The afterlife… the eternal life.

It is clear that life does continue beyond life here on earth, that we move into a new age, a new place, that cannot be described by or even compared with our earthly existence.

Are you still in doubt? Well, Jesus has the answer… simply relax and be at peace in your faith.

I surely believe and know that Jesus lived and died and was resurrected. If I am wrong, well, I am to be pitied, but nothing is lost…

But if I am right...well, imagine the treasure I would have gained in Heaven!

This is the very promise of the Resurrection. After the grim reality of death and suffering, we would all be raised again, completely free from sin.

Christ has died.
Christ has risen.
Christ will come again.

He is God not of the dead, but of the living, for to Him all of them are alive. In life, in death, in the resurrection we are still reconciled with God, inseparable from Christ, the living Son of the God of the living.

Let us pray +

Almighty Father, make us faithful followers of the spirit of your resurrection. Grant that we may be inwardly renewed; dying to ourselves in order that you may live in us. May our lives serve as signs of the transforming power of your love. This we ask of you, Lord Jesus, living and reigning with the Father, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God forever. Amen +

I will give thanks to you, O LORD, with all my heart…

GOD OF THE LIVING (11-22-11)

2011-11-22T09:03:00.000+08:00

LET US PRAY (11-21-11)

2011-11-21T20:04:00.000+08:00

Luke 19:46
“My house shall be a house of prayer…”
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I have been praying as long as I can remember.

All through my life, I have experienced the power of prayer – in times of family trouble, marital trouble, financial trouble and personal difficulties.

How do you pray? What do you pray? How sincere are your prayers?

God invites all of us to come to Him. He wants us to bring to Him all our life’s burdens through prayer. And when they do, they will find acceptance, comfort and help from Him.

Let us ask that His kingdom come, His will be done in our lives, our church, our city and our country. We need to demonstrate our trust in Him to fulfill the vision He has given us and seek the Lord together in prayer.

The power of prayer resides in the Lord. Put all your confidence in Him, asking anything according to His Words. And knowing that He hears us, we know that He will provide whatever we asked for, in His time.

With God’s help let us make His house, a house of prayer for all the people – holy, obedient, trusting and one in Christ.

Let us pray +

Almighty Father, I pray for the goodness of everyone. May we constantly seek You and continuously praise Your mighty name. Be merciful to us and be forgiving. We are all sinners, so I am not really better than others. And there is no more comforting truth in this world than this: Christ Jesus came into the world to forgive sinners. And for that, I humbly and silently pray with all my heart and thank You. Amen +

We praise your glorious name, O mighty God.

VOX DEI (11-20-11)

2011-11-20T09:16:00.001+08:00

Solemnity of Christ the King

John 18:37
Jesus answered, “You say I am a king. For this I was born and for this I came into the world, to testify to the truth. Everyone who belongs to the truth listens to my voice.”
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Christ the King Sunday, the last holy Sunday in the western liturgical calendar year. Next week, we start with the new liturgical year, starting with the Advent season as we prepare for Christmas, the birth of our Lord.

Ahh, it’s Sunday again.

It is the day when we, at least, spend a whole one hour praising Him, singing for Him, hearing His mighty words and receiving the Eucharist - signifying that we accept Him as our Lord, our God, our Master, our Teacher, our Savior, OUR KING!

If in those little, minute things and places, we already find solace and experience paradise, what more if we really experience the true one, the one promised by our Lord. When we reach that place, we can truly say that “I am now in Paradise, with my Lord and my King!”

You are always inside me…
talking to me…
hearing my thoughts…
understanding the pain I go through…
and loving me, for the real Paradise is in my heart.

Continue filling-up my soul with Your love, Oh Lord, overflowing, out-pouring, that I may share them with others.

Let us pray +

Oh Lord, continue to console our souls. Anticipate our desires and make Yourself present to us always, bringing all those graces and remedies to those who are in need. We speak to You, for we know You are near, willing to listen. We ask these in Jesus name, our Lord and King forever. Amen +

The LORD is king; he is robed in majesty.

DAYS ARE COMING (11-19-11)

2011-11-19T06:43:00.001+08:00

Luke 19:43
For the days are coming upon you when your enemies will raise a palisade against you…
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The devil would continue to haunt us. He doesn’t want us to be serving the Lord our God. They will continue to pounce on us, in different forms, in different times, at different opportunities.

So, are you ready? Is the armor of God protecting you? Is the sword of the Lord ready and sharpened?

We are always in constant attack from the principalities that rule this world.

But we should not back down.
We should all hold our ground.

We need to continue to be the loving, compassionate, and peacemaking children of God we have been called to be.

We may have hated someone in our life, but always remember to hate the actions done and not the person. We must continue to show love to that person so that same love may change him and change us. Loving others is taking out the enemy within.

So, in the end, we are both changed… taking out the true enemy from our hearts and worshipping only the true, One God.

Let us pray +

Almighty Father, anger destroys the peace of our own soul, but being a loving and compassionate peacemaker brings peace to our soul. Teach us to love those who brings injustice to our lives. Teach us to love our enemies. Teach us to trust in You, knowing that this is how we have been called to be.

Amen +

To the upright I will show the saving power of God.

CONTENTED IN HIS PRESENCE (11-18-11)

2011-11-18T07:15:00.001+08:00

Psalms 17:15
But I in justice shall behold your face; on waking, I shall be content in your presence.
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Upon waking up in the morning, you would go straight to your normal morning ritual – fixing the bed, going to the bathroom, eating breakfast, taking a bath, dressing up and off to work. Where is the car key? Where is my lunch box? Where are the kids? An hour into the morning, and you are already dishelved, frustrated and a mess.

Most of the time, we always take common things for granted. That the sun will rise in the morning, that you will hear the chirping of the birds tomorrow, that you would be alive the next day. And still, we would blame God for every bad things that would happen to us. Isn’t that unfair?

Live a life of contentment in His presence. Not a contentment that comes from possessions, activities, or other people, for these can be changed or taken away. But a life of contentment that comes from our relationship with Jesus Christ. There is absolutely nothing that can take that away.

Contentment frees you to enjoy every good thing God has given you. Contentment demonstrates your belief that God loves you and has your best interest in mind.

Wake up in His presence… thanking Him for another day and start your day contented and full of peace.

Let us pray +

Almighty Father, blessed are we, because we have known You! Blessed are we, because we have believed in You! Blessed are we, because we bear Your wounds and the sign of Your Blood on our countenances! Blessed are we, because You are our great hope! Blessed are we, because You are our God forever!

Amen +

The Lord will not abandon his people.

SALVATION HAS COME (11-17-11)

2011-11-17T10:54:00.000+08:00

Luke 19:9-10
“Today salvation has come to this house… For the Son of Man has come to seek and to save what was lost”.
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Tax collectors during the time of Jesus, like Zacchaeus, are very wealthy people… but they are also greatly hated by the people. They cheat people and whatever he collected over the amount required would be for him to keep. But Jesus has other plans. Instead of hating Zacchaeus, Jesus called on him so He can stay for dinner at his house.

Zacchaeus is overjoyed. Here he was, a social outcast being offered the opportunity to host one of the most famous men in the country. He scrambles down the tree and welcomes Jesus. At the end of the day, another soul was saved, as what Jesus has come to accomplish.

We are called to a dinner with the Lord.
We are called to eat with Him.
He is inviting us to dinner, because He wants us to eat a piece of Himself.
He knows our longing for Him and our faith in Him.

Jesus’ invitation is for providing salvation and forgiveness and He is waiting for our repentance. Jesus takes our shame upon himself willingly, waiting, hoping that we will understand and repent.

What grace!
What mercy!
“For the Son of Man came to seek and to save what was lost”.
That means, you and me.

Let us pray +

Lord Jesus, as I read about Zacchaeus, I think of my own selfishness. Help me to see you at work in people around me. Help me to be willing to risk whatever reputation I have to join you. I long to see your salvation shine more brightly through me. In your holy name, I pray. Amen +

The Lord upholds me.

HAVE SIGHT (11-16-11)

2011-11-16T09:47:00.000+08:00

Luke 18:42-43
“Have sight; your faith has saved you”. He immediately received his sight and followed Him, giving glory to God.
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The cry echoes clearly two-thousand years ago as it is today, “Jesus, have pity on me!” But most of the time, once we received what we need, we again go back to our previous wrongdoings, totally forgetting God, until that next disaster.

Jesus taking out afflictions not because He wants to, but because that person believes and have faith in Him. The blind man's persistence and his urgent calls for help were rewarded as others before had been rewarded for their persistence.

Let us be rewarded because of our faith. Ask for pity in all humility as we are absolutely dependent upon Him, Who is our only hope.

And it should not stop there…

We should invite Him in out hearts, seeing with the eyes of faith. Perhaps dimly at first and in need of correction, but nevertheless focused on the source of life and light that the Lord is offering to all of us.

And we continue to see the light with and for Him…

Make sure we never go blind again and continue to see. These drastic changes in our lives should also be permanent and plain for all to see. May others see all the good and right things in us so they may know that the Lord our God is really a merciful and loving God.

Let us pray +

Almighty Father, forgive me for my unbelief. Renew my faith with the unstoppable faith that Bartimaeus possessed. Let me be quick to praise God and to follow you in the Way. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen +

Give me life, O Lord, and I will do your commands.

YOUR WORDS, OUR LIFE (11-15-11)

2011-11-15T10:07:00.001+08:00

Mark 13:31
Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away.
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Words spoken 2,000 years ago, still they are as true and as relevant in our lives today. So it really is amazing that the words of Jesus Christ continue to set the bar that no one can reach.

However, some of us would twist these words to suit our lives, so we can continue to live in our lies. “An eye for an eye”, “divorce as promulgated by Moses”, “animal sacrifices” – these are old thinking that was already renewed through Christ.

“Love your enemy”.
“Love your wife; listen to your husband.”
“I am the way, the truth and the life”.

Jesus claim is so revolutionary that it was considered insane by some rational person. Yet, somehow, I know deep in my heart (as I am sure you also believe and know), that he spoke the plain truth.

And while I, as a sinner, might have problem reconciling His words with what I really want to do in my life, I cannot deny that He spoke with the authority and wisdom that can only come from a loving, omniscient God.

May God give us the strength to follow the words and actions of Jesus Christ and not be swayed by the tides of a changing world.

Let us pray +

Lord Jesus Christ, may we forever live and believe in your very Words. No one can twist them, for they are Words of Life. May we follow Your example forever, only believing in You and Your mighty words and deeds.

Amen +

Therefore my heart is glad and my soul rejoices…

CALL OUT TO HIM (11-14-11)

2011-11-14T08:35:00.001+08:00

Luke 18:7
Will not God then secure the rights of his chosen ones who call out to Him day and night?
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You asked for something
You did not received what you asked for
So, you gave up… thinking that you are not loved, and so you rebelled.

But have you thought of asking again…
And again… and again?

God is more than a father, He is more than a judge. He is our Lord, our God – worthy of our unceasing praise and prayers.

If faith is the furnace of our lives, then His grace is its fuel.
And the divinely appointed shovel for feeding the burner is prayer.

If I lose heart and lay down the shovel, the fire will go out. I would eventually grow cold and hard.

Focus on our heart attitude.
“Rejoice always” is an attitude of joyfulness.

How do we rejoice and give thanks? Through prayer!

It expresses itself throughout the day with silent prayers of vital communication with the LORD. We can't always stop asking, our heart’s attitude should always be of “praying without ceasing”.

Let us pray +

Almighty Father, I pray to you without ceasing. I bring back to You my life of prayer without losing heart. And when Jesus comes, I hope that He would see the faith in me, and be worthy to join Him in Heaven.

Amen +

Remember the marvels the Lord has done!

SUDDEN COMING (11-13-11)

2011-11-13T08:20:00.000+08:00

Luke 17:26
“As it was in the days of Noah, so it will be in the days of the Son of Man…
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The year is again nearing its end. Would the end of the world not be far? Don’t ask me, for I don’t really know. Only God the Father knows when it will be – even Jesus doesn't even know as He told His disciples: “No one knows about that day or hour, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father”.

But what I know is this.

We all need to be prepared.
We must all be ready and watchful,
For “the day of the Lord will come like a thief. The heavens will disappear with a roar; the elements will be destroyed by fire, and the earth and everything in it will be laid bare”.

As St. Peter has all warned us, and so we must be prepared –
“You ought to live holy and godly lives as you look forward to the day of God and speed its coming. That day will bring about the destruction of the heavens by fire, and the elements will melt in the heat. But in keeping with his promise we are looking forward to a new heaven and a new earth, the home of righteousness” (2 Peter 3:11-13).

Are you ready for the last day?

Let us pray +

Almighty Father, help us to be ready for Jesus' sudden coming. Shake us awake. Help us not to be lulled to sleep by the unbelief Teach me the true value of material things so that I do not cling to them. Help my eyes to be ever looking for His appearing. In the holy name of Jesus, I pray.

Amen +

The heavens proclaim the glory of God.

KINGDOM IN OUR HEARTS (11-12-11)

2011-11-12T09:25:00.001+08:00

Luke 17:20-21
“The coming of the Kingdom of God cannot be observed… For behold, the Kingdom of God is among you.”
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I already have a concept of our dream house. But it is still a concept – kept in my and my wife’s mind. We are still paying for the lot so we cannot build it yet. And until it is completely built, it would remain a dream – soon to be realized. Until we see it, feel it and live in it, we would only be living in our dreams. That is the reality of living in this earthly world.

Jesus is offering us more than this earthly world. He is offering us more than just a dream.

Yes, He promised us heaven and the Kingdom of God.
Yes, He promised us eternal life and His second coming.

Jesus did not want us to expect an immediate kingdom, but now that promise is not just a dream for it lives in our every hearts. All we need is to accept Jesus as our Lord and Savior.

The Kingdom of God is not a visible territory with borders. It is not a capitol building with beautiful architecture. Instead, his Kingdom, God's Kingdom, has already begun to make its appearance as people bow their hearts to the King and offer themselves in service to His rule.

Have you truly yielded your heart, soul, mind, and strength to do the Lord's will? Is His Kingdom now rightfully placed in your heart?

Let us pray +

Almighty Father, I praise You for Your power and glory. I praise You for Your work of deliverance and salvation in our lives. I praise You for Your promise of a home and a great future with us. Now I ask that Your will be done in my life as I offer myself to serve and honor You as the only true and living God, in Jesus' name.

Amen +

Your word is for ever, O Lord.

PITY US, LEPERS (11-11-11)

2011-11-11T07:45:00.001+08:00

Luke 17:12-13
They stood at a distance from him and raised their voice, saying, “Jesus, Master! Have pity on us!”
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Leprosy… a type of sickness that cannot be easily healed. Slowly, the body is being consumed, little by little, until we cannot bear the pain and suffering anymore. And the part has to be amputated or disfigured permanently.

Sin… spiritual weakness that cannot be easily cured. Slowly, the body is being consumed, little by little, until we cannot bear the pain and suffering anymore. And our lives are forever amputated from the body of Christ, wallowing forever in sinful extravagance, our soul disfigured permanently.

We are all lepers – spiritual lepers, that is. What is worse, this disease affected our hearts, totally ignoring God up to a point of doing those that are exactly the opposite of His will.

And worst of all, some of us do not believe that they ever can be healed!

Yet, there is hope. There is hope when Jesus sends His gospel to us, and bids us to repent. "I believe in the forgiveness of sins": this is a sweet sentence of a true creed.

Believe in the renewal of our hearts; for the Lord can give new hearts and right spirits even to the evil and unthankful; cleansing our heart, our soul, our spirit – giving us salvation!

Let us pray +

Lord Jesus, I am unclean as a leper shouting to You for forgiveness from afar, for I cannot approach You and unworthy of even Your gaze. But You did differently. You are the One who even approached me and healed me of my spiritual illnesses. And You even gave up Your life to ensure ever-lasting comfort, joy and peace with the Father. I shall always go back to give You thanks and praise. Amen +

Rise up, O God, bring judgment to the earth.

UNPROFITABLE SERVANT (11-10-11)

2011-11-10T10:32:00.000+08:00

Luke 17:10
When you have done all you have been commanded, say, “We are unprofitable servants; we have done what we were obliged to do”.
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Would you see your house helper, remote control in hand, sitting in your sala and watching TV? Or, sleeping in the master’s bedroom? Of course , not. As servant, they have a place in the house, and they should follow that rule or their service will be terminated.

You may say that is not fair. But fair or not, the servant was expected to work in the house or the field and prepare the food afterwards for his master. That is his duty. The master wasn't there to serve the servant, but the servant is expected to serve the master.

And in our relationship with the Lord, we always think that we are the master and God is our slave.

Our prayers tend to be "give me" prayers – “Please help my business succeed”, “Heal my mother's cancer”, “Provide food to those experiencing a famine”, “Work in my boss's heart to give me a raise”. Is this any way to address God to whom we owe our allegiance, life and salvation?

We are His servant, not the other way around! We are His servants, His slaves first. We are to serve him dutifully without any expectation of reward.

Our prayer should be of servant’s prayer: “Father, what do you want me to do today?”, “How can I help my friend learn to be brave in face of sufferings?, “Give me strength and boldness to witness for you so others may know You.”

And after we have learned that lesson of obedience, hear His voice as He call us His "friends."

Let us pray +

Almighty Father, give me a servant’s heart. Help me to better understand my appropriate role as your slave, so when you graciously grant me your friendship I might truly appreciate your love. Amen +

I will bless the Lord at all times.