Jesus Heals!

Today’s readings tell us the healing power of Jesus.

The first reading may seem harsh as first. We see the people suffering and children dying. It may seem that God is harsh for doing that to them, or for allowing that to happen. However, it is good to see things from a different perspective. It was their choice, their decision why those things happened to them. They chose to ignore God. They chose to believe in false prophets and their visions. It was as if they did not know God. Their decisions and actions led to those things, so It was not God who was doing that to them, rather them turning away from God.

In the gospel, we see Jesus coming to make things new.

He healed the centurion’s servant without the need to physically touch him. His word was more than enough to heal him. Of course, the faith of the centurion had a lot to do with it as well. He had faith in the power of Jesus’ word, and of course, Jesus rewards his faith. Jesus was even surprised and amazed at his faith, and inspires us to have that faith as well.

We also see Jesus healing other people in the gospel. He healed peter’s mother in law, and the immediately served them after. He healed all who were brought to him – those who were possessed by demons, those who were sick, those who needed healing. He did not turn away anybody.

Jesus comes to heal us too – whatever we may need healing from. It may be physical healing like the people in the gospel. It may be healing from anything that is not of his. It may be emotional, financial or spiritual healing. God is all powerful and all loving that he can and he will give us that healing. We just need to have faith – in his word, in his power, in his love – and humbly come to him and accept his healing.

As we are healed, we should know that it does not end there. Life will not be easier after being healed. There will still be problems, trials, challenges, and temptations. Just because Christ healed us, doesn’t mean life will be a breeze. Given that, we should also work hard after. We should pray more. We should give back to God more, like Peter’s mother in law who immediately served them after being healed. Christ expects effort on our part, and not just rely on Him and not do anything. We should do our best and leave him the rest.

Do I need healing? From what? Do I believe that God can heal me from anything? Do I believe the scriptures that say the “Jesus took away our infirmities and bore our diseases”, and have faith that I just have to trust in him to heal me?  Am I humble enough to come to him for healing? Am I ready to serve him and grow closer to him after experiencing his healing?

May we humbly come to Jesus in faith and ask for healing, and serve him with a grateful and loving heart especially after he gives us healing.

Dear God,

I praise and thank you for who you are. I thank you for your healing, powerful love that you remind me of today. Lord, I ask that you help me identify the areas of my life that need healing. Let me know what you want me to heal, Lord. Help me have that faith and humility to come to you for healing, and as you heal me, may I find it in my heart to wait on you, as a grateful and humble servant who experienced his master’s healing love. Amen.

Have a restful weekend!

God bless!

In Christ,

-g-

Ps

See related reflections:

http://mysimplereflection.blogspot.com/2012/01/jesus-heals_31.html

http://mysimplereflection.blogspot.com/2012/01/jesus-heals.html

Who Am I to You?

Today, we celebrate the feast of two great followers of Christ – Saints Peter and Paul.

The first reading shows us what great things God has done to Peter. He was captured, chained and was set to die. A lot of guards were guarding him, iba ibang levels pa! Then we see that nothing really is impossible with God! He hears the prayers of his people! God sent an angel to take peter away from a dark situation. God turned the seemingly sad situation into one which shows his great love, power and glory!

Another great servant of God, Paul’s final moments was recalled in the second reading. Yes, he gave his all for God. He is tired, yet very happy and satisfied with how he lived his life in service of God. Until the end, he had complete and full faith in God, something we can aspire to have, something we can work to have.

The gospel shows us Jesus asking the disciples the question: Who am I to you? Who do you say that I am? It does not matter who Jesus is for other people. What matters is who Jesus is to them. Peter proclaimed that Jesus is the messiah. Jesus then affirmed that it was God who revealed this to Peter, and he said his blessings on Peter as the head of his Church.

Today, God is asking us the same question: Who am I to you? It does not matter what other people say Jesus is. It does not matter what sins we have committed in the past. It does not matter what we intend to do in our lives. What matters for Christ is our answer to his question. Who am I to you? Who am I in your life? Am I God in your life? Do you put me first in your life? Do you believe that I am all loving, all merciful, all powerful God? Do you believe that I can work great things to and through you?

May we find it in our hearts to answer him like Peter did – that he is the Messiah, that he is God in our lives. Let us be inspired by saints Peter and Paul, and live our lives the way these two servants of God did – working tirelessly to proclaim God’s kingdom wherever they are, having full faith in God.

Dear God,

I praise and adore you for who you are. Lord, I am so blessed that you are the same yesterday, today and tomorrow, and that no matter what I do, you will not love me less. I am so grateful to be worshipping the same God that Peter and Paul worshipped, and I believe that you will use me in a mighty way the same way you used Peter and Paul for your glory. Lord, I ask that you help me live my life proclaiming that you are the Messiah, that you are my God, so that I can bring people to you and glorify you. This I ask in Jesus name, Amen.

God bless!

In Christ,

-g-

PS

See related reflection:

http://mysimplereflection.blogspot.com/2012/06/will-you-finish-strong.html

Built on a rock

The gospel today reminds us how important a strong foundation is.

I am currently undergoing a technical training, and one of the things our instructor teaches us is the importance of having a strong and solid foundation. In technology, the applications are rapidly changing. The demands of work are constantly changing. It is impossible to always be in the know in terms of the latest developments in technology. However, having a strong foundation will make you confident whatever situation you are faced with. No matter what the requirements are, even if you do not readily know how to go about the implementation, having a strong basic foundation will enable you to know what you need to research and work on to be able to deliver the requirements. Thus, having a strong basic foundation is very important.

I believe this is true – in life and in faith.

Jesus reminds us how important having a strong foundation is. Life on earth is temporary. Yes, it may be enjoyable because it appeals to our worldly concerns. However, nothing in this world will last forever, therefore we should not build our foundation on these things. We should not build our foundation on earthly riches and power, because all these can be taken away in a second –  these things away from us, or us away from these things and into eternity.

Only Jesus gives us a strong foundation. Only he is the rock on which we should build our house.

Building on Jesus may not seem interesting at first. He may not give us the desires of this world. He may not give us money, power or fame. However, he gives us much more than that. He gives us something we can take into eternity. He gives us something to hold on to when things around us crumble and fall. He gives us life to the fullest through his redeeming love.

Where am I building my life upon? Do I see the importance of building it on Christ’s strong foundation, or am I enticed with what the world has to offer? How can I strengthen the foundations of my faith?

May we remember to build our foundation in Christ, the only rock we could rely on.

Father God,

Thank you for being my rock. Thank you for giving me strength during the most trying times of my life. Thank you for being constant in my life. Lord, help me build my faith and my life around you and not on any other thing. I know that this world easily entices me, and I ask that you keep me focused on you as I live my life on earth. May I build a strong foundation in you, so that with it, I can withstand whatever the world will send my way. Amen.

Have a blessed day!

In Christ,

-g-

ps

see related reflection:

http://mysimplereflection.blogspot.com/2011/12/house-on-rock.html

Ano ang Bunga?

The gospel today tells us that we will know a tree by its fruits.

A mango tree bears mango, a buko tree bears buko. A good tree bears good fruit, a rotten tree bears bad fruit.

Jesus warns us to look past the superficial level – to look beyond the seemingly harmless appearance and see what is inside. Jesus wants is to look deep into our hearts and see beyond what other people see, beyond what we project, beyond what we say. Jesus is asking us to examine our lives and see what is inside of us, because eventually it will come out and bear fruit.

Jesus sees what is inside of us. He sees way past our actions, our image and reputation and what we say or project to other people. Kahit sabihin mo, or ipakita mo sa ibang tao, alam ni God ano yung nasa loob ng puso mo. Minsan, kahit hindi mo alam, kahit hindi ka aware, alam ni God. That’s why it is important to always pray and ask his guidance as he reveal what is really in our hearts.

Personally, I think there’s always an exception. The people in the first reading did not know they were already disobeying God. They did not know they were not honouring the covenant and were not doing their part. When they learned of it, they quickly repented and went back to God. Bad tree yung ancestors nila, but they became good fruits. I believe that there will always be opportunities for us to change and go back to God, we just have to be open to him and sensitive.

Am I seeking God’s will in my actions? Do I constantly try to make an effort to examine my life and change my ways, as I pray that God help me discern what’s in my heart? What fruits am I bearing in my life?  Do I bear good fruit?

May we be inspired and do our best to bear good fruit for God.

Dear God,

Thank you for reminding me that I should bear good fruit. Lord, I ask that as I live my life, I may be always aware of my intentions, of what is inside my heart, and that I always seek your will above all so that I can glorify you. Amen.

God bless!

In Christ,

-g-

The narrow gate

Kaboom!

This is a usual expression when one sinks a basketball, especially a three point shot or a crucial shot.

The gospel today reminds me of that, a basketball going inside the ring.

What makes the game exciting is that it’s not that easy to do. It would have been easier if the goal was just to hit the board, or to hit the ring without necessarily sinking the ball to the ring. However, the game’s not like that. Players do their best to put the ball inside the ring, and that’s what makes it challenging and exciting – kasi mahirap sya. You need to invest time and it takes a lot of practice, perseverance and patience to keep getting used to it, to be better.

Jesus teaches us that doing good is like that. Mahirap sya. Mas madali gumawa ng masama. Mas madali maging pasaway. Mas masaya maging pasaway. Pero parang basketball, walang score kay God yung tatama lang sa board. We earn points by doing what is hard, and we can be better at it if we practice and persevere. Kaya naman eh, kailangan lang seryosohin.

In the first reading, we see a king doing what is right. When threatened by the king of Assyria, Hezekiah did what is right. He trusted in God. Ang hirap nun. It must have been easier to send envoys to make peace or to surrender to avoid bloodshed and war. IT must have been easier to gather as much people he had to fight the enemy. However, he did what is right and what is hard. He got down on his knees and prayed to God. Mahirap, but it scored points for God, it won the game.

Do I choose the narrow path, or am I too tired or too busy to do so? What does God want me to do in my life? What decisions does he want me to take, especially those hard ones? What is preventing me from following the narrow path?

May we live our lives following the narrow path towards God’s kingdom.

Dear God,

Thank you for today. I praise and thank you that even if you are the all powerful and almighty God, you still choose to go down to our level and meet us where we are. Lord, may I choose the right path, however hard it is to take, and be patient, knowing you will meet me when I continue doing such. I know that you will reward me for doing your will, and I have faith in your love and power over everything. This I ask in Jesus name, Amen.

Stay blessed!

In Christ,

-g-

Look Inside

The gospel today asks us to look first inside our hearts and remember our imperfections instead of quickly judging others.

It is easy to see the mistakes of others. It is easy to see their annoying characteristics, their bad habits, their imperfections. However, Jesus reminds us that no one is perfect, thus we should not be quick to pass judgement on others.

Does this mean we should not mind them and not care?

Not necessarily. Jesus wants us to put things in the right perspective. He did not tell us not to care about other people. He wants us to avoid passing quick judgement. “…the measure with which you measured will be measured to you” When we want to correct others, let us first remember that we too are not perfect, and that we should examine our motive. Why am I telling it to the person? Is it out of love for the person, or our of hate? Do we want to help the other person, or do we want to embarrass him?

It is easy to justify our actions. “Hindi naman ako ganyan kasama, kaya ok lang na pagsabihan ko sya.” Or “hindi naman ako ganyan ka pasaway, kaya ok lang na magalit ako sa kanya” However, Jesus tells us otherwise. There are things we do not see – because of the wooden beam in our eye. There are things we do not know. There might be a deeper reason for his action. There might be an unresolved concern inside of us that is triggering something with what we see with the other person. That’s why Jesus wants us to examine our self, our motive, and our intention before we act on what we’re feeling towards other people.

IS there someone really annoying me? Is there someone I want to talk to about a bad habit or behaviour? Did I examine myself already? Am I doing it out of love? Do I try to look past the action and into the person?

May we always be reminded to pray and look inside ourselves before we act.

Dear God,

Thank you for the weekend. Thank you for this new week. Lord, I ask that this week, I may be able to glorify you through my thoughts and actions. Help me to always examine my motives and look inside myself first before acting. May I hate the sin and not the sinner, knowing that I too am a sinner. Help me to look past the seemingly irresponsible and annoying action of others, and look deep into the person and try to see what the root of such behaviour is. Lord, I know it is not easy, but with your guidance, I can do it for your greater glory, Amen.

Have a blessed week!

In Christ,

-g-

Be a John

As we celebrate the feast day of St John the Baptist, we are reminded of his life and what God wants from us.

“What, then, will this child be?”

From his birth, we all knew John was special. He was born out of very old parents, his dad’s mouth became sealed when he did not believe, and when he believed and wrote that his name is John (instead of being named Zechariah, after him), his mouth was opened. Special talaga si John!

Even though he is special, john knew what his purpose was. He knew he was not the messiah, even if some people thought he was. In the second reading, we see john telling that he is preparing the way for the messiah, and the messiah is coming after him, whose sandals john is not worthy to untie. See, kahit special si John, alam nya saan sya lulugar. Alam nya yung purpose nya, and humble sya.

He did not want attention for himself. When his disciples left him to follow Jesus, he did not react. He let them, because he knew Jesus was the messiah, not he. His humility is also inspiring, saying that “God must increase, I must decrease.” Why did he not want attention for himself? The first reading tells us – my reward is with the Lord. Yes, his reward is with God, not with human favour, support or acceptance.

Tayo din special. It is just up to us to see and recognize it. The psalm says that God knows everything about us! He was there even before we were made and he formed us in our mother’s womb. knows our thoughts, he knows the depths of our soul.  He knows everything about us. Not only that, he made us, and we are wonderfully made. Talk about being special. Imagine, God being so crazy about us that he knows everything about us. Does not it make you feel special?

The realization of being special should make us feel like John. We should love God more, and we should live our lives glorifying God, leading people to him. We are not perfect, but we are special and we are loved, and these things God has been giving us should be enough to make us want to bring people to him so that they would see and realize how special they are too. In the process of bringing people to God, we should always remember that we should be glorifying God. All glory should be to him, not ours.

Do I believe I am a special child of God, created wonderfully? Do I base my self-worth and value on what other people say to me, or from God? Do I want attention to myself?  Am I willing to be like John, who prepared the way for God and brought people to him? Am I willing to decrease so that God may increase?

May we be like John and bring people to God for God’s greater glory.

Dear God,

Thank you for today. Thank you for the example of John the Baptist. Lord, may I have the heart of John. May I  always be focused on my mission to bring people to you so that they may experience your love, and in the process, glorify you. Amen.

Have a blessed Sunday!

In Christ,

-g-

Don’t worry… have faith!

The gospel today reminds us of one of the most common problem we as human beings face – worrying.

IT is said that in the bible, the phrase “Do not worry” is mentioned more than 365 times. One for every day of the year! This means that God is serious about his message for us. He is serious and he wants to remind us not to worry and to just trust in Him.

Jesus is telling us that God takes care even of creatures other than human beings. He feeds the birds who do not “work” like we do. He dresses the flowers with such beauty that even us cannot match. God is telling us to relax and have faith in him. In the way that he takes care of these things, he too will take care of us who are more important than the birds and flowers. We are created in His own image and likeness, so he will really take care of us.

There are a lot of sayings about worrying:

It is like sitting on a rocking chair, it gives you something to do, but gets you nowhere…

It means you don’t trust God…

It does not empty tomorrow of its sorrow, it empties today of its strength…

Come to think of it, all these things are true. We will worry if things are not in its proper perspective. We will worry if we put value on things of this world – money, fame, worldly success. The gospel takes off from the message yesterday of not making financial stability the goal in life (See reflection http://mysimplereflection.blogspot.com/2012/06/what-is-important.html )

We are asked not to worry, and serving God will make this easier.

“Seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you…”

As we do away with worrying and trust in God, we should serve Him and seek his will in our lives. Instead of working for worldly things, we should work for God. As we do, he will reward us and take care of the things we need in this world. This is his promise. Let us claim it.

Am I a worrier? Why? What things am I usually bothered about? Are these things in my control or not?  When God tells me 365 times, that’s once a day, to not worry, how do I react?

May we build our faith and trust in God. Let us not worry about things, but put our focus on Him, serve him, and trust that as we do so, he will give us the things we need in this world.

Prayer:

Dear God,

Thank you for your word today. Thank you for reminding me to not worry about earthly concerns. Thank you for your promise that as I serve you, as I put you first, you will take care of things. Lord, help me always focus on you and serve you, even if it is difficult, and especially when worry seems to creep inside of me. I ask this in the name of your Son, Jesus. Amen.

Happy Weekend!

In Christ,

-g-

PS

See related reflections

http://mysimplereflection.blogspot.com/2012/05/do-not-worry-have-faith.html

http://mysimplereflection.blogspot.com/2012/06/what-is-important.html

What is important

The readings today remind us what is important.

Being a guy, I believe that financial stability is important. Being the eldest and only guy just makes really important.

It is easy to be lost in the world in search of financial stability. The intention may be good – to be able to help out in the family more, to be able to help the less fortunate more, to be able to provide for the future family, etc. However, sometimes we make financial stability the end goal and not one of the means to the goal. Sometimes in our desire to help out more, we become too focused on work and financial stability that we lose touch with the very people that we want to help.

Jesus is telling us in today’s gospel that we should always put things in perspective. We won’t live in this earth forever, so we should not store earthly riches, rather, heavenly ones.

Money can be stolen, fame can easily be gone in a second, and properties can easily be burned and will eventually decay. Nothing is permanent in this world. Nothing will last, and we cannot bring anything when we die. That’s the truth.

Although material wealth is necessary to live, we should not live just for it. We do not need a lot to help other people. Like Jesus said in one parable, the widow with two cents gave the most. What matters is our hearts as we give to the poor.  They also say that we cannot really achieve financial stability. As human beings, we are never contented with what we have. We will always be wanting more, that’s why being focused on this will make us lost in our lives – like Athaliah in the first reading who did evil things for money and power.

God wants us to focus on Him, God wants us to store heavenly treasure while we are on earth. That’s true wealth, something that we will be using for eternity. God wants our hearts as we live life on earth. God wants us to focus our eyes on Him, and prepare for eternity with Him.

What is important to me? Am I too focused on worldly wealth that I tend to reject preparing and accumulating heavenly wealth? Am I waiting to be financially stable before I help other people? What does God want to tell me today?

May we live each day knowing that everything in this world is temporary, and that we should prepare for eternity with God.

Prayer:

Dear God,

Thank you for reminding me today what is important. Thank you for assuring me that as long as I put you first, you will take care of me. Lord, help me always remember this and put things in perspective as I live my life. May I see earthly wealth as one of the means to further your kingdom on earth and not my goal in life. May I always be detached from material things as I work and prepare for eternity. Amen.

God bless!

In Christ,

-g-

Grounded on God

Today’s readings show us what we can accomplish if we are grounded on God.

In the first reading, we see Elijah’s great acts blessed by God (See reflection http://mysimplereflection.blogspot.com/2011/12/awesome-elijah.html ). He did such great and wondrous deeds in the name of and with the blessing and anointing of God. He has always been founded on the word, firmly grounded on God – doing everything for God’s praise and glory, not his own. We see that his service is genuine and really blessed by God.

The gospel shows us Jesus teaching us one way to be grounded on God. He teaches us how to pray (see related reflection http://mysimplereflection.blogspot.com/2012/02/lords-prayer.html ).  One way to be grounded on God is first to build a relationship, a personal and intimate one, with Him. Prayer helps us do this. Jesus is teaching us that it is neither the words nor the actions that are important. It is our heart as we pray. It is a heart fully surrendered to God’s will, having faith in His perfect plan, not ours.

How is my prayer life? Do I give importance to it? What things have I accomplished though God’s grace? Do I believe that I can accomplish anything through Him?

May we work on our prayer life as we become grounded on God as we live life on earth.

Prayer:

Dear God,

I thank you for always being there for me. Thank you for the gift of prayer. I am sorry if I do not give much importance to praying, especially when things are doing well in my life. Lord, help me work on my prayer life as I develop an intimate and personal relationship with you. I have faith that as I am grounded on you, you will do great things through me. Amen.

Stay blessed!

In Christ,

-g-

PS

See related reflections

http://mysimplereflection.blogspot.com/2012/02/lords-prayer.html

http://mysimplereflection.blogspot.com/2011/12/awesome-elijah.html

http://mysimplereflection.blogspot.com/2012/06/gods-power-unleashed-through-our-faith.html

http://mysimplereflection.blogspot.com/2012/06/whats-your-motive.html

http://mysimplereflection.blogspot.com/2012/06/persistent-faith.html

http://mysimplereflection.blogspot.com/2012/06/shine-for-god.html

What’s your motive?

The gospel today encourages us to check our motives for doing good. Jesus tells us that our actions for God should be more than the superficial level. More important than our actions is our intention behind them.

 Jesus says you cannot readily tell the intention based on the action. Sometimes, there’s a tendency to do things not for God, but for the praise and approval of other people. People giving alms, helping the less fortunate ones with the intention of being recognized and branded as someone for the poor is not serving God in others, but himself. Praying and fasting to be seen, complimented and recognized as prayerful, righteous people are not praising God by their act, but merely building up themselves.

The first reading tells us an inspiring story. Elijah, one of the greatest prophets, was mysteriously taken up by a flaming chariot and flaming horses. Truly a testament of how pleased God was with his service. Yes, Elijah did many things (See footnotes), great things, but the intention was to praise and glorify God and never himself. We also see Elisha, asking for a double portion of Elijah’s spirit rather than any other power or thing, and as a sign of God’s approval, Elisha was able to do great things as well.

How about us? What are our intentions? When serving God through others – the poor, his church, our friends – what are our intentions? Do we seek to praise and glorify Him, or are there hidden personal desires in our actions? Do we want to be praised and recognized as we serve? Will we still serve even if we are not recognized and thanked for our actions? Will we still serve even if no one sees our actions? Will we still serve even if we are criticized for it?

May we always remember to probe our hearts for our intentions as we serve, and may we serve for the audience of one – God.

Prayer:

Dear God,

Thank you for reminding me today to check my intentions. Lord, I know it is not easy to serve you, and human as I am, I sometimes seek personal affirmation or recognition on my service. Father God, I pray that you always remind me that the most important affirmation is not from other people, but from you, Lord. Help me clean my intentions and always focus on you as I serve, having faith that when the time comes, you will recognize the service I am giving to you. Amen.

Blessed day!

In Christ,

-g-

PS

See related reflections:

http://mysimplereflection.blogspot.com/2012/06/persistent-faith.html

http://mysimplereflection.blogspot.com/2012/06/gods-power-unleashed-through-our-faith.html

http://mysimplereflection.blogspot.com/2011/12/awesome-elijah.html

http://mysimplereflection.blogspot.com/2012/06/shine-for-god.html

Love like God

Today’s readings invite us to love like God.

In the first reading, we see the continuation of yesterday’s story. Today, we see God, through the prophet Elijah, telling his anger at Ahab and his line. God’s anger was fuelled not just by Ahab allowing for the murder of Naboth so he can take his land, but by Ahab’s lifestyle of following other gods. In breaking the first and greatest commandment of loving God first, and in doing evil things because of that, God was so angered.

However, we also see how forgiving God is.

When God saw that Ahab humbled himself and was sorry for what he has done, God recognized it. We see God’s mercy and compassion if we are truly sorry for our sins. There’s no sin he cannot forgive, and there’s nothing too grave that he will not forgive. We just need to humble ourselves and be truly sorry for our sins for us to experience God’s forgiveness, mercy and love.

The gospel teaches us again to love in a higher level. We are asked to love as God loves.

It is easy to love the lovable. It is easy to love back those who love us and take care of us. It is easy to love back if we are getting that same, or sometimes greater love than the one we are giving. Lahat ng tao kayang gawin yun. However, Jesus is asking us to take it a step further.

Love the unlovable. Ang bigat no?

As followers of Christ, we are asked to love as he loves. To love the people who is not easy to love. That annoying officemate or relative, that seemingly nasty person you know, that disrespectful someone you know. These people, who are not easy to love, are still children of God, and God still wants to reach out to them… probably through you. Only God knows why they are acting that way, and God is asking us to love them even if it is not easy to, even if they do not deserve it.

Does this mean it’s okay to be a battered partner to someone abusive, because we are asked to love them? Not necessarily. Loving a person does not always mean we will obey and surrender to them. God do not give us everything we want and ask for, but we know for a fact that he loves us so much. God will give us what’s best for us, what will make us grow and mature, even if that entails pain on our part. He does so, not because he is angry, but because he loves us and wants us to grow in faith.

Be Jesus to others. You may be the only one.

In what ways have I experienced the love and mercy of God? When reading this, who came into my mind as the unlovable person in my life? How can I be like Jesus to that person today?

Dear God,

Thank you for your love. Thank you for loving me, even if I am an unworthy sinner. Thank you for your redeeming love that enables me to love others because you loved me first. Help me, Lord, to repay that love by loving others, especially the unlovable ones. Help me love in the way you want me to, not based on my own feelings and emotions, but anchored on you. Today, in my own little way, may I be like Jesus to someone, especially the unlovable one. Amen.

Blessed day!

In Christ,

-g-

Nasaan ka na?

The readings today ask us where we are in terms of our lives.

In the first reading, we see two people being of the world. We see king Ahab who, after not getting what we want, got angry, disturbed. Needless to say, he did not take things well. Then we see his wife, Jezebel, who after finding out what happened, assured the king that the vineyard will be his. This may seem like a good intention, helping out the partner, but the means of how it was done was evil. She set up a plan to have Naboth, the landowner, killed so king Ahab could get the land. Yes, Naboth was killed due to false accusations, and the king obtained the land, who was just too happy to have the land. This shows that even if the intention may seem good, the means of getting it done is very important as well.

The gospel teaches us Jesus’ way, as opposed to the first reading. Jesus asks us to love, especially the unlovable. He wants us to be generous with the things that we have on earth, because all these things are temporary and should be used to further God’s kingdom. All we have on earth is God’s gifts to us, and should be used for God’s purposes. Jesus asks us to love the unlovable, to give until it hurts, to serve even if it is not easy, to let go and let Him take control.

Where are we now? Are we like the people in the first reading, who take care of each other and want the best for each other and will work on it, no matter how they get it? Or are we slowly working on following Jesus’ teaching of loving the way he does?

May we always remember that everything we have is God’s and should be used to further his kingdom.

Father God,

Thank you for giving me another week. Thank you for this day. I ask today that you help me improve myself. Help me love others the way you love us. May I be more generous with my time, talents and treasures to further your kingdom. Amen.

God bless!

In Christ,

-g-

My Littleness for His Greatness

The second reading today reminds us that we should glorify God.

Therefore, we aspire to please him,
whether we are at home or away.

We should aspire to please God, wherever we are and whatever we do. We can please God with our actions every day. We do not need to be a missionary or a full time church worker to please Him. Our daily taking up of our crosses to follow him is pleasing to him. Offering up our actions for his glory pleases him. Praying and acknowledging that he is God in our lives pleases him.

No act is too insignificant, if done for the glory of God.

St Therese knows that doing ordinary things with extraordinary love is much appreciated by God. It is more important that doing great things for self-gratification or personal glory. God does not need us to do a lot of mighty things on our own. All he needs is a heart that fully loves and surrenders to Him. God will use whatever little we can offer, and turn it into something great – for Him and by Him.

The first reading shows this. He will take of a tender shoot, plant it on a mountain and it will become a majestic cedar. The gospel says that a small mustard seed eventually turns into one of the biggest trees that give shade to birds. He said that he will lift high the lowly tree. He will use whatever little we can offer and turn it into a grand act for his purpose. We just need to let him.

Does this mean we just need to give him a little? Definitely not.

Even if God does not need grand acts from us, it doesn’t mean we’ll give a little. IT doesn’t work that way.  God does not require a grand act as an offering, but as lovers and followers of Christ, we definitely need to give him our best. He deserves the best we can offer. Whatever the best we can give him, he will turn into something great.

Is God real in my life? What do I offer him? Do I give him my best, or just the leftovers? Do I feel that I have to do grand things to serve him, or do I know that he will take whatever little I can give, and turn it into something great, if done with love and if given for his glory? What can I give God today?

May we always remember to give God our best, and remember that as long as it is the best we can give, he will take it, however little it may seem, and use his greatness.

Prayer:

Father God,

I thank you for this day. Thank you for reminding me that as long as I give you my best, no act is too little for your kingdom. Help me always give you my best and have faith that however little it may seem, you will turn it to something great. Amen.

Blessed Sunday!

In Christ,

-g-

Immaculate Heart of Mary

Today, we are commemorating the Immaculate Heart of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

Yesterday, we see and remember how much God loves us. Today, we see an example of how we should love him back, through a human being in Mama Mary

In the gospel, we see a glimpse of Mary’s heart.

Even if she did not understand what Jesus meant, she still followed God. She still loved Him and served Him. Probably she did not get the answer she was expecting, but she was not proud and complaining. We did not see her complain and say “You sent the angel and asked me to be Jesus’ mother, now I do not understand what he is saying?!” Instead, we see Mary as a humble and obedient servant, keeping things in her heart when she did not understand.

How about us?

How do we react when we do not understand God’s plans? Do we humbly accept his plan, having faith that his plan is the best, or do we complain and insist he conform to what we want? When we do not get what we pray for or what we ask, how do we react? Are we angry at God, or do we keep the faith, continuously serving him despite of everything? Do I feel God’s love in my life? How do I respond and give it back to him? to others?

May we find in Mama Mary an example of how to love God back.

Prayer:

Father God,

Thank you for loving me. Thank you for always going down to my level and reaching out to me. Lord, I ask that you help me love you like Mama Mary. May I always surrender to your will and may I always be a humble servant loving you… always. Amen.

Have a blessed weekend!

In Christ,

-g-

Sacred Heart of Jesus

Today, we celebrate the Solemnity of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus.

What comes into mind when one sees an image of a heart? <3

Some, probably the scientists and physicians, would associate heart with science and remember one of the most important organ in the human body.

Well, that is true.

However, I believe most of the people would associate heart with love. And I believe that is what Jesus, through the readings today, wants to tell us.

God loves us. The Solemnity of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus reminds us of the intense love of God for us.

In the first reading, we see God, like a father, loves and takes care of us. Nanjan sya kahit hindi natin alam, kahit hindi natin napapansin or pinapansin. His love is unconditional, na kahit hindi mo I acknowledge, kahit hindi ka magpasalamat, hindi sya titigil magmahal. His anger is also controlled. Ayaw nan yang masaktan tayo. Kahit pasaway tayo paminsan minsan, he still loves us and wants the best for us.

In the second reading, Paul uses a lot of words to try to describe God’s love for us. “..the breadth and length and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge…” Lahat na, parang napaka laki at napaka complex ng love ni God para sa atin. Imagine, God, who created us, who do not need us, who can live without us, loves us this much? Special ka!

In the gospel, we see this love in action. God sent his one and only son to save us from our sins. How? Not like a mighty king, but like a helpless child. He gave in to the will of God. He died to save us from sin and death. His love is greater than death. In the gospel, kahit patay na sya, blood and water still flowed out from Him. Even death could not stop him from loving us, from giving everything to us. We are not worthy of such love, but God’s love make us worthy and special.

Do I know that God really loves me so much? Do I value God’s love for me? IS it enough for me to tell me how special and worthy I am, or do I still look for love and affirmation of other people to make me feel good about myself? How can I love others and make them feel God’s love?

May we always know how much God loves us!

Prayer:

Dear God,

Thank you for loving me, even if I am unworthy. Lord, I am sorry for sinning and hurting you. Pero Lord, kahit pasaway ako, that does not stop you from loving me. May I give value to your love for me, and may I find my worth in your love and not in others. Today and every day, may I always remember how much you love me, and may I be a vessel of your love to others. Amen.

God bless!

In Christ,

-g-

Persistent Faith

The first reading today continues the story of Elijah yesterday.

We see again Elijah’s great faith in God.

In today’s reading, Elijah had faith in God’s power that he told king Ahab that a heavy rain is approaching. This was the time that there was famine in the land, so for him to say there would be heavy rain is such a bold statement – a statement that could only be made with someone who has great faith.

Elijah prayed to God. His posture, putting his head between his knees, is a sign of how intense and how surrendering his prayer was. Syempre naman, sabihan mo ba naman ang hari na may malakas na ulan e, kung di ka magdasal ng ganun.

What’s inspiring about Elijah is his persistent faith.  As compared to the previous story, wherein God immediately sent fire to consume the offering, now we see God being initially quiet. Walang ulan. Hindi madilim. When Elijah sent his servant to check, the servant said – nothing. However, this did not dampen Elijah’s spirit. He did not say, “Lord, diba close tayo? Bakit mo naman ako papahiyain?” Instead, he was persistent in prayer, unwavering in faith. He knew God would listen to him.

Siguro nakukulitan na yung servant. He looked  six times na wala parn talaga. Siguro iniisip nya, wala pala to, mahina si Elijah, ang kulit pa. Sabi nang wala eh. However, Elijah’s faith in God made the servant see something great. On the seventh try, he saw a small cloud.

Boom!

That was more than enough for Elijah. That was the mustard seed that would grow into a huge tree. That was the start of great things from God. He knew that it was God’s answer to his call. He had faith that the small cloud was the start of heavy rain… and God did not disappoint him.

We can have Elijah’s faith if we are close to Jesus. However, in the gospel, Jesus tells us that we cannot truly worship him, that we cannot really develop an intimate relationship with God if we have issues – specifically anger towards others.

Anger is not inherently bad. Jesus was angry at the people who made his father’s house a den of thieves. Elijah in yesterday’s reading, was angry at the people for not making the decision. Ok lang yun. What’s bad is if it leads us to sin. What’s bad is if anger makes us hate the person, not the act of the person. We cannot fully worship God and claim to love him if we cannot love others as well.

Do I find Elijah’s faith inspiring? Why? Why not? What can I do to improve my faith? When God does not seem to answer my prayers, what do I do? Do I stop and think that God is not listening, or am I like Elijah who is persistent in faith? Is there someone I need to forgive from my heart? Is anger residing in my heart?

May we be inspired by Elijah’s faith and work to live our lives building that faith while truly praising God.

Dear God,

Thank you for today. Thank you for reminding me that even if you don’t immediately answer, it doesn’t mean you won’t give me what I pray for. Lord, I ask that you help me build my faith. May I be like Elijah that has full faith in you even if you seem to be silent. As I live my life, help me build that faith, and help me release anger in my heart that is preventing me from fully worshipping you. Amen.

God bless!

In Christ,

-g-

God’s power unleashed through our faith

The first reading today is one of my favourite faith stories in the Bible.

Who is Elijah? He is THE prophet! Remember during transfiguration, Moses and Elijah appeared with Jesus. Moses represented the law, Elijah represented the prophets. Ganun sya ka astig! =) Sinasabi pa nga dati na si Elijah yung babalik from Heaven when the time comes.

Anyway, the story shows God’s great power unleashed by Elijah’s great faith.

In the reading, the 450 prophets of Baal took the whole day – dancing, praying, shouting and even hurting themselves so Baal would listen to them and accept their sacrifice. All this time, Elijah was just watching, and even taunted them to shout louder because Baal might be doing something else. Then when the time came, we see Elijah’s faith and confidence in God. He asked that water be poured on the offering, not once but three times. Then he prayed. Immediately, God sent fire to consume the offering, including the overflowing water. Astig talaga si God!

Elijah’s purpose in this is not to make himself known. Hindi para sumikat sya na may powers, or na malakas kay God. His intention was for the people to make the decision – to follow Baal or to follow God. Kailangang pumili, hindi pwedeng best of both worlds. Elijah had faith that God will help him as he serve him and ask the people to decide. This faith of Elijah, kahit na 450 prophets ni Baal yung kalaban nya at inasar pa nya, tapos pinalagyan pa nya ng madaming tubig yung offering, enabled God to manifest his great power.  This event converted many people to the faith, not formally, but they made the choice to follow God. They proclaimed that “The LORD is GOD.”

Where do we see ourselves in the story?

Are we like Elijah, who is actively serving God and having faith in God and his great powers kahit na in the sense of the world, mas madami yung kalaban ni God? Natatakot ba tayo pag mukhang malakas yung kalaban or mukhang alanganin tayo? Are we confident enough with our faith in God, and in our God in whatever we are facing?

Are we like the people who are undecided wether to follow Baal or God?  Do we claim to follow God in some aspects, but cling to other gods as well in forms of horoscopes, predictions of the future, and the like? Are we following God only on aspects of faith that are comfortable and beneficial to us, but not on doctrines that require more from us, like going to mass, confession, forgiveness, etc? When will we take a stand and choose?

We are encouraged to have faith like Elijah. We can have faith like Elijah. Tao lang din naman sya eh, parang tayo! He is not an angel, nor someone who came down from heaven. We can have faith like Elijah’s if we pray, work hard in building and strengthening our faith and relationship with God. Eto nanaman ulit – nanjan ang bible na dapat natin basahin at gamitin. There’s the mass. We have the sacraments that will help us grow deeper in the faith. The things that we need are readily available, we just need to make the decision – decision to choose God and to improve and strengthen our faith and our relationship with him. As we do this, then we can be used by God, like Elijah, to bring others to Him.

Father God,

I am sorry for not choosing you all the time. Sorry Lord that minsan, hindi buo ang pagsunod ko sa inyo. Hindi buo ang pag lingkod ko sa inyo. Lord, I ask that you help me make the decision. Alam ko naman kung ano yung dapat eh, I just need to make the decision to stick to it and choose you everytime. Thank you Lord for the gift of faith, and I ask you to help me strengthen my faith. I know that as I choose you, my faith will be strengthened and you will use me to unleash your great power and bring people to you. All this I ask in faith in Jesus name, Amen.

Have a blessed day!

In Christ,

-g-

Shine for God

The readings today remind us that we should shine for God – that all our actions should magnify and glorify God.

The gospel shows Jesus telling his disciples to be salt and light. In ancient times, salt was used not only to give food taste, but mainly to preserve food. Salt is not the main ingredient or the focus in cooking. If it was, food will be salty. The same way, as disciples of God, we should preserve not food, but the people God has chosen. We should preserve God’s kingdom in whatever capacity we can, and as we do so, the focus should never be on ourselves and what we are doing, but on God, his greatness, his kingdom.

Jesus also tells his disciples they are the light. Not just ordinary light, but light of the world. A lamp does not keep light to itself. It is put on a lampstand to illuminate the house. Again, focus is not on the light. As we work for God, as bring light into the world by proclaiming his kingdom and serving God, focus should not be on our accomplishments, or on how many people we’ve helped or brought to the faith… Focus should always be on God. As Jesus tells them, people should see our good deeds and glorify your heavenly father.

We see an example of this in the first reading. Elijah, by the grace and power of God, helped a widow about to die of starvation. The entire time, Elijah was glorifying God. He did not claim the miracle on his own credit. He was always pointing to God as the reason for the flour and oil being present. By allowing God to use him, Elijah glorified God by his actions.

We need to have faith to be used by God.

Elijah was told to go and rely on a widow. Widows are one of the poorest in a community, so probably Elijah was thinking why God asked him to rely on a widow. Nevertheless, he obeyed and had faith in God. The widow, on the other hand, knew she and her son was about to die of starvation. However, when a man of God came to her, she had faith in his words coming from God, and relied totally on God. In the end, both were rewarded. Faith.

Do I excel in the things that I do? Do I give my best in what I do? For whom do I achieve and excel? Am I working hard for God? Do I glorify God in my actions, and bring him all the glory and fame that he rightfully deserves? Do I work on improving my faith that will allow God to use me mightily for His kingdom?

May we allow God to use us and let us shine for His greater glory.

Prayer:

Dear God,

Thank you for reminding me who I should always be glorifying. Lord, I know at times I get distracted, that even if I work for you, sometimes I want to receive recognition and affirmation on my actions. Help me Lord to always remember that I am doing everything for you and your greater glory. Also help my faith, that especially when what you ask seems to go beyond reason, I still have full faith and trust in your plan, and allow you to use me in whatever way you want. Amen.

In Christ,

-g-

Encouragement

Today we celebrate the feast of St Barnabas, and the first reading tells us something about him.

St Barnabas’ real name is Joseph, but was later called Barnabas, which means son of encouragement.

He is a real encourager, and he sees the goodness in people.

In the bible, it was Barnabas who saw the goodness of Paul’s heart. After his conversion, the people were afraid of Paul and suspicious of his intentions, and they had great reason to, because before his conversion, Saul was a fierce persecutor of Christians, and was even there when St Stephen was martyred. However, Barnabas was willing to give him a second chance, he saw the goodness in Paul’s heart, and introduced and welcomed Paul to the community.

In another occasion, Paul, Barnabas and Mark went on a missionary journey, however Mark turned back in the middle of the trip. After that, they were again set to go on another journey, and Paul did not want to take Mark because of how he acted before. However, Barnabas gave him a second chance and took Mark with him.

Seeing the goodness and encouraging others can do a lot to them.

Mark responded well to the encouragement and trust given by Barnabas. Paul eventually referred to Mark as a valuable assistant. On the other hand because of Barnabas’ encouragement to Paul, he was able to do a lot of great things. We all knew what St Paul has done to spread God’s kingdom.

How can we encourage people in the faith?

The first reading tells us some of Barnabas’ characteristics – rejoicing (and not getting jealous) on the grace of God on others, a good man – filled with the Holy Spirit and faith. We can have these things too. We can be a good person if we imitate Christ. We will be filled with the Holy Spirit if we work on our relationship with Christ. Our faith will increase if we communicate with God and build an intimate relationship with Him. Yes, all these things are doable through prayer, scripture reading, and building a personal and intimate relationship with God.

What do I think about encouragement? Do I find it necessary? Do I encourage others and see the goodness in them, or do I do the opposite? Am I willing and happy to encourage others, even if they do greater things than me?

May we work to develop in us the gift of encouragement, and be happy to build God’s kingdom by encouraging other people.

Prayer:

Father God,

Thank you for reminding me the beauty and power of encouragement as I start another week. Lord, sometimes I fail to see the importance of encouragement. Sometimes, though my words and actions, I put others down instead of encouraging them. Sometimes, I underestimate encouragement. Lord, may I always see the importance of encouragement in building your kingdom. Help my build my faith that will enable me to be an encourager for your kingdom. Like Saint Barnabas to St Paul, may I be truly happy when people I encourage reach greater heights than I, because I know that as long as we work for your kingdom, nothing is too big or too little a contribution. I know that whatever little I think I can give, you will magnify so that your name would be glorified. Amen.

Have a blessed week!

In Christ,

-g-

PS

See a short story on the power of words of encouragement and seeing the goodness in others:

In the early 1900's, in the small village of Podsreda, Croatia, an altar
boy named Josip Broz was serving the priest at Sunday mass. As he was
holding the wine cruet, it accidentally dropped and shattered. The village
priest struck the altar boy sharply on the cheek and in a gruff voice shouted:
"Leave the altar and don't come back!" Crushed, Josip left the church and by
the time he was eighteen, he joined the newly formed Croatian Social Democratic
Party. During World War II, Josip changed his name to Marshal Tito and in
1945 Tito became the communist dictator of Yugoslavia.

There was another altar boy in the early 1900's named John who grew up in El
Paso, Illinois. He too was serving Sunday mass to a bishop when a wine cruet
accidentally fell from his hand during communion. With a warm twinkle in his
eyes the bishop gently whispered: "Someday you will be a priest." John took
that lesson of forgiveness and hope to heart. John not only grew up to become
a priest, but Archbishop John Fulton Sheen was one of the most captivating
radio preachers and influential religious authors in America.

What power we have when we say the right word at the right time. Are your words
"Apples of Gold"? Today in prayer, thank Christ for His example of aptly
spoken words.

http://www.godswork.org/inspiration165.htm

http://www.gerhardy.id.au/epiph1_08.htm\

http://www.stpauls-satx.org/article/99/worship/sermons/low-sunday-uplift