You Already

The WORD today (See http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/081914.cfm) reminds me that we should always know where we stand

There are people who are so intelligent and so great. They seem to have Midas’ touch, that anything they get their hands into, succeeds and they prosper. They seem to know everything. And a common expression we say to these people is “Ikaw na!” (Humorously translated into You Already). Ikaw na ang magaling. Ikaw na ang matalino. Ikaw na ang mayaman. Ikaw na ang gwapo. These qualities and achievements sometimes get into people’s heads and they think so highly of themselves.

This is what God warns us in today’s readings.

In the first reading, we see God reminding us that no matter how intelligent or rich we are, we should remember that everything came from God. We cannot take credit that what we have is a result of our own efforts or intelligence. In the gospel, we see Jesus warns the disciples and he is warning us today, that it is hard for rich people to enter the kingdom of heaven. Is he against rich people? Of course not! What makes it hard for worldly-rich people is that they are too attached and too engrossed in their riches that have no time and space for God. So if that’s the case, then they really won’t be able to enter God’s kingdom – because they would rather enjoy their riches here on earth.

As we grow older, we usually tend to accomplish more things. We get more successful in life – whether to grow our business or climb up the corporate ladder. We get to send our children to good schools, and are able to provide our family a better, more comfortable life. we tend to make connections to important and influential people in this world. Ikaw na! But we are reminded today to not let these things get in our heads. All of these are because of God – of God’s grace, of God’s goodness, of God’s love. They are never because of us.

The psalmist echoes God’s reminder – It is I who deal death and give life.

May we always know where we stand with God. Let us heed his call and know our place before our God.

Father God,

Thank you for today. thank you for another day to live. Thank you for another chance to love you. Lord, I thank you for all the blessings you have been giving me and my family. Thank you for your goodness, thank you for your grace. And Lord, I ask that you help me to always be grounded. May I never think of myself more than what I am. May I always remember to continue loving and serving you, especially despite of all the great blessings you give me. Amen.

Blessed day!

In Christ,

-g-