Hated by the World

The WORD today (see http://usccb.org/bible/readings/043016.cfm) reminds me that as Christ's followers, we will be hated by the world. 

Last Tuesday, we saw who the ruler of the world is. The enemy is the ruler of the world. He has power on this world. And today, we are reminded by Jesus in the gospel that because of who has power in this world, all his followers will be hated by the world.

The world loves its own, and since we are followers of Christ who is not of the world, the world will hate us. This is something that we should remember – as we face injustices and challenges of the world. We see evil people prospering, we see good people suffering, and now we are reminded why. The world is Satan’s and he gives worldly favor to those on his side, not Jesus’.

Challenges and sufferings are expected to those who follow Christ.

A friend once told me that if you don’t experience sufferings and challenges in the world, you should examine if you are really of Christ. As believers, we do not want challenges and oppression. We do not seek it. But we should expect it and be strong about it. Jesus, our master, experienced these things, and it is our privilege to experience the same things he did – as long as we do so because of the right reasons.

In the bible, Peter said that it is better to suffer for doing good, if it be the will of God, than to suffer doing evil. Not all suffering is due to being followers of God. Some people suffer because of their own decisions and mistakes, and it does not mean they’re suffering because of God.

May we remember to hold on to God’s word and promises as we experience suffering and challenges in this world.

Father God,

Thank you for today. Thank you for another day to live. thank you for another weekend. Thank you for the exhortation. I ask that you help me focus on you. Help me hang on to your promises as I experience challenges and suffering in this world. may I always be faithful to you and have joy as I experience the same things you experienced in this world. May my suffering snd pain make me more and more like you. Amen.

Blessed weekend!

In Christ,

-g-

Ps

See related reflections:

http://mysimplereflection.blogspot.com/2012/05/world-hates.html

http://mysimplereflection.blogspot.com/2013/04/tell-world.html

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April 30, 2016
Saturday of the Fifth Week of Easter
Lectionary: 290

Reading 1 Acts 16:1-10

Paul reached also Derbe and Lystra
where there was a disciple named Timothy,
the son of a Jewish woman who was a believer,
but his father was a Greek.
The brothers in Lystra and Iconium spoke highly of him,
and Paul wanted him to come along with him.
On account of the Jews of that region, Paul had him circumcised,
for they all knew that his father was a Greek.
As they traveled from city to city,
they handed on to the people for observance the decisions
reached by the Apostles and presbyters in Jerusalem.
Day after day the churches grew stronger in faith
and increased in number.

They traveled through the Phrygian and Galatian territory
because they had been prevented by the Holy Spirit
from preaching the message in the province of Asia.
When they came to Mysia, they tried to go on into Bithynia,
but the Spirit of Jesus did not allow them,
so they crossed through Mysia and came down to Troas.
During the night Paul had a vision.
A Macedonian stood before him and implored him with these words,
“Come over to Macedonia and help us.”
When he had seen the vision,
we sought passage to Macedonia at once,
concluding that God had called us to proclaim the Good News to them.

Responsorial Psalm PS 100:1b-2, 3, 5

R. (2a) Let all the earth cry out to God with joy.
or:
R. Alleluia.
Sing joyfully to the LORD, all you lands;
serve the LORD with gladness;
come before him with joyful song.
R. Let all the earth cry out to God with joy.
or:
R. Alleluia.
Know that the LORD is God;
he made us, his we are;
his people, the flock he tends.
R. Let all the earth cry out to God with joy.
or:
R. Alleluia.
The LORD is good:
his kindness endures forever,
and his faithfulness, to all generations.
R. Let all the earth cry out to God with joy.
or:
R. Alleluia.

Alleluia Col 3:1

R. Alleluia, alleluia.
If then you were raised with Christ,
seek what is above,
where Christ is seated at the right hand of God.
R. Alleluia, alleluia.

Gospel Jn 15:18-21

Jesus said to his disciples:
“If the world hates you, realize that it hated me first.
If you belonged to the world, the world would love its own;
but because you do not belong to the world,
and I have chosen you out of the world,
the world hates you.
Remember the word I spoke to you,
‘No slave is greater than his master.’
If they persecuted me, they will also persecute you.
If they kept my word, they will also keep yours.
And they will do all these things to you on account of my name,
because they do not know the one who sent me.”

Sunshine

The WORD today (see http://usccb.org/bible/readings/042916.cfm) makes me think if others take delight in what comes out of me. 

We all have different reputations. Some are terror teachers and professors that students feel afraid to come to. When they teach, they bring students fear more than the desire to learn. Others aphave the reputation of being mean bosses. Employees are afraid to come to them. And some are what they call sunshine - people who bring light and joy to others. This is what God wants us to be. 

God wants us to bring joy and positivity to others despite our personal struggles and challenges. 

In the first reading, we see that the people feel burdened. There were unnecessary things placed upon them. It became hard and burdensome to follow God. But the Apostles wrote them. Gave them representatives, and explained what they just needed to do. And when the people read it, they were delighted. 

It probably was not always easy for the Apostles to be positive. They themselves experience challenges and persecutions. They have their own problems. However, they are still able to bring joy to others. This is because they are filled with God. They have the fullness of God's love, God's joy and God's peace in them, so it is easy for God to use them. This makes their actions powerful and positive. 

This is what God wants us to bring others.

There are a lot of negative people in this world. We cannot blame them. They may have experienced pain and challenges in their lives. These things may have changed the way they see others. Their pain made them hard and tough. This is why we should be the opposite. We should bring God's peace, joy, and positivity to others. Just as the apostles' exhortation delighted the people, our wrds and actions too should make people feel good, should remind others of God's love and peace and forgiveness. To do this, we should do as the apostles did - to fill ourselves with God. So what we would share with others is coming from God. This will make it easier for God to use us mightily. 

May we be challenged to be sunshines to others despite our own struggles and challenges. 

Father God,

Thank you for today. Thank you for another day to live. Thank you for another chance to know you more. Thank you for the reminder. Lord, sorry for the times I just focus on myself. Sorry for letting my hurts and pain change me. Help me be a ray of light to others. Help me be a sunshine. May my presence, words and deeds remind them of your great love, of your joy, of your peace. May others experience you through me. Amen. 

Blessed day!

In Christ,

-g-

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April 29, 2016
Memorial of Saint Catherine of Siena, Virgin and Doctor of the Church
Lectionary: 289

Reading 1 Acts 15:22-31

The Apostles and presbyters, in agreement with the whole Church,
decided to choose representatives
and to send them to Antioch with Paul and Barnabas.
The ones chosen were Judas, who was called Barsabbas,
and Silas, leaders among the brothers.
This is the letter delivered by them:
“The Apostles and the presbyters, your brothers,
to the brothers in Antioch, Syria, and Cilicia
of Gentile origin: greetings.
Since we have heard that some of our number
who went out without any mandate from us
have upset you with their teachings
and disturbed your peace of mind,
we have with one accord decided to choose representatives
and to send them to you along with our beloved Barnabas and Paul,
who have dedicated their lives to the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.
So we are sending Judas and Silas
who will also convey this same message by word of mouth:
‘It is the decision of the Holy Spirit and of us
not to place on you any burden beyond these necessities,
namely, to abstain from meat sacrificed to idols,
from blood, from meats of strangled animals,
and from unlawful marriage.
If you keep free of these,
you will be doing what is right. Farewell.’“

And so they were sent on their journey.
Upon their arrival in Antioch
they called the assembly together and delivered the letter.
When the people read it, they were delighted with the exhortation.

Responsorial Psalm PS 57:8-9, 10 and 12

R. (10a) I will give you thanks among the peoples, O Lord.
or:
R. Alleluia.
My heart is steadfast, O God; my heart is steadfast;
I will sing and chant praise.
Awake, O my soul; awake, lyre and harp!
I will wake the dawn.
R. I will give you thanks among the peoples, O Lord.
or:
R. Alleluia.
I will give thanks to you among the peoples, O LORD,
I will chant your praise among the nations.
For your mercy towers to the heavens,
and your faithfulness to the skies.
Be exalted above the heavens, O God;
above all the earth be your glory!
R. I will give you thanks among the peoples, O Lord.
or:
R. Alleluia.

Alleluia Jn 15:15b

R. Alleluia, alleluia.
I call you my friends, says the Lord,
for I have made known to you all that the Father has told me.
R. Alleluia, alleluia.

Gospel Jn 15:12-17

Jesus said to his disciples:
“This is my commandment: love one another as I love you.
No one has greater love than this,
to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.
You are my friends if you do what I command you.
I no longer call you slaves,
because a slave does not know what his master is doing.
I have called you friends,
because I have told you everything I have heard from my Father.
It was not you who chose me, but I who chose you
and appointed you to go and bear fruit that will remain,
so that whatever you ask the Father in my name he may give you.
This I command you: love one another.”

Keep His Commandments

The WORD today (see http://usccb.org/bible/readings/042816.cfm) reminds me that God wants us to keep his commandments so we would remain in Him. 

We show our love and appreciation for our family, especially our parents, by respecting them and living in the way they raised us. Telling them we love them but living in sin, disobeying and disrespecting them, do not really show them we love them. Actions speak louder than words. They will only know and feel that we love them if we live right, if we obey and respect them.

This is the same with how we relate to God. It is easy to tell God that we love him. It is easy to tell God that we are thankful for all the blessings. However, proving it is not as easy. Living it is not as easy. But God wants us to act, not just talk. 

God wants us to keep his commandments.

In the gospel, Jesus said that we will remain in him and his love If we keep his commandments. If we truly love him, we will respect him and obey his commandments. We will live that love. We will live our thanksgiving. We will live our faith.

In the first reading, we see who we should live this commandment to. God is not just the God of the Jews, or of the Gentiles. God is the God of all. He is God of everyone. Thus, we should live his commandment to everyone. We should love each other, especially those unlovable. We should treat others right, especially those who don't treat us right. We should spread the gospel to everyone, especially those who love this world so much to know and learn about Christ. 

There are a lot of people nowadays who speak of good things but live otherwise. May we be challenged and inspired to live consistent with what we say. May we live our faith and love for God through others.

Father God,

Thank you for today. Thank you for another day to live. thank you for another day to experience your love. Lord, I am sorry for the times I do not live my faith and love for you. sorry for the times I get contented with just professing my faith and love, thinking that my thoughts and intentions are good, even if my actions tell you otherwise. Help me live a consistent life, where my words and actions go hand in hand. May my life show you how much I love you. Help me love others like you do. Fill me with your love so I can love them with it.   amen.

Blessed day!

In Christ,

-g-

Ps

See related reflections:

http://mysimplereflection.blogspot.com/2012/01/wala-siyang-pinipili.html

http://mysimplereflection.blogspot.com/2015/01/god-of-all.html

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April 28, 2016
Thursday of the Fifth Week of Easter
Lectionary: 288

Reading 1 Acts 15:7-21

After much debate had taken place,
Peter got up and said to the Apostles and the presbyters,
“My brothers, you are well aware that from early days
God made his choice among you that through my mouth
the Gentiles would hear the word of the Gospel and believe.
And God, who knows the heart,
bore witness by granting them the Holy Spirit
just as he did us.
He made no distinction between us and them,
for by faith he purified their hearts.
Why, then, are you now putting God to the test
by placing on the shoulders of the disciples
a yoke that neither our ancestors nor we have been able to bear?
On the contrary, we believe that we are saved
through the grace of the Lord Jesus, in the same way as they.”
The whole assembly fell silent,
and they listened
while Paul and Barnabas described the signs and wonders
God had worked among the Gentiles through them.

After they had fallen silent, James responded,
“My brothers, listen to me.
Symeon has described how God first concerned himself
with acquiring from among the Gentiles a people for his name.
The words of the prophets agree with this, as is written:

After this I shall return
and rebuild the fallen hut of David;
from its ruins I shall rebuild it
and raise it up again,
so that the rest of humanity may seek out the Lord,
even all the Gentiles on whom my name is invoked.
Thus says the Lord who accomplishes these things,
known from of old.

It is my judgment, therefore,
that we ought to stop troubling the Gentiles who turn to God,
but tell them by letter to avoid pollution from idols,
unlawful marriage, the meat of strangled animals, and blood.
For Moses, for generations now,
has had those who proclaim him in every town,
as he has been read in the synagogues every sabbath.”

Responsorial Psalm PS 96:1-2a, 2b-3, 10

R. (3) Proclaim God’s marvelous deeds to all the nations.
or:
R. Alleluia.
Sing to the LORD a new song;
sing to the LORD, all you lands.
Sing to the LORD; bless his name.
R. Proclaim God’s marvelous deeds to all the nations.
or:
R. Alleluia.
Announce his salvation, day after day.
Tell his glory among the nations;
among all peoples, his wondrous deeds.
R. Proclaim God’s marvelous deeds to all the nations.
or:
R. Alleluia.
Say among the nations: The LORD is king.
He has made the world firm, not to be moved;
he governs the peoples with equity.
R. Proclaim God’s marvelous deeds to all the nations.
or:
R. Alleluia.

Alleluia Jn 10:27

R. Alleluia, alleluia.
My sheep know my voice, says the Lord;
I know them, and they follow me.
R. Alleluia, alleluia.

Gospel Jn 15:9-11

Jesus said to his disciples:
“As the Father loves me, so I also love you.
Remain in my love.
If you keep my commandments, you will remain in my love,
just as I have kept my Father’s commandments
and remain in his love.

“I have told you this so that
my joy might be in you and
your joy might be complete.”

Remain In Him

The WORD today (See http://usccb.org/bible/readings/042716.cfm) reminds me how important and powerful remaining in God is. 

Greatness is never achieved inside your comfort zone.

This is true in most aspects of life. Athletes train and push themselves to the limit to improve themselves, to imrpove their endurance, their performance, their game. People who push themselves to the limit at work, in school or in business are often the ones achieve greatness. This is true in the bible as well. Those who are willing to step out of their comfort zones were used mightily by God. – David, Abraham, Moses, Paul, Elijah – to name a few great people.

Leaving your comfort zone causes pain.

You know you’re in your comfort zone when you have that – comfort. There is no new thing being learned, no new realizations, no new improvements, no growth. Growth is often accompanied by pain. And only when we leave our comfort zone, only when we welcome transforming pain, will we grow and improve. Only then can we achieve greatness. 

This is what Jesus tells us in the gospel. God will prune us so we can bear much fruit. It may entail pain, but it will be for a good cause. It will be for greatness. However, there is one thing we should remember all throughout – that we should remain in Jesus, just like the great people in the bible did. They experienced a lot of pain, but they did not give up. Instead, they remained in God and trusted in Him. Thus, God used them mightily.

May we continue to be faithful and remain In Chrsit, especially when faced with challenges. Let us have faith that as we allow him to lead us, as we step our of our comfort zones for him, he will use us in great ways.

Father God,

Thank you for today. Thank you for another day to live. thank you for the reminder. Lord, I thank you for all the blessings. Thank you for all the challenges that improve me. thank you for all the opportunities for growth. Help me remain in you as I live. I know that without you, I am nothing, so I will just stick to you and trust in you. Lord, I am willing to step out of my comfort zone for you. I am willing to experience pruning, to experience pain, so I can be better, so I can love you more, so I can serve you more. Do to me as you please, and use me mightily for your glory. Amen.

Blessed day!

In Christ,

-g-

Ps

See related reflections:

http://mysimplereflection.blogspot.com/2015/05/remain-in-christ.html

http://mysimplereflection.blogspot.com/2012/03/god-has-other-plans.html

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April 27, 2016
Wednesday of the Fifth Week of Easter
Lectionary: 287

Reading 1 Acts 15:1-6

Some who had come down from Judea were instructing the brothers,
“Unless you are circumcised according to the Mosaic practice,
you cannot be saved.”
Because there arose no little dissension and debate
by Paul and Barnabas with them,
it was decided that Paul, Barnabas, and some of the others
should go up to Jerusalem to the Apostles and presbyters
about this question.
They were sent on their journey by the Church,
and passed through Phoenicia and Samaria
telling of the conversion of the Gentiles,
and brought great joy to all the brethren.
When they arrived in Jerusalem,
they were welcomed by the Church,
as well as by the Apostles and the presbyters,
and they reported what God had done with them.
But some from the party of the Pharisees who had become believers
stood up and said, “It is necessary to circumcise them
and direct them to observe the Mosaic law.”

The Apostles and the presbyters met together to see about this matter.

Responsorial Psalm PS 122:1-2, 3-4ab, 4cd-5

R. (see 1) Let us go rejoicing to the house of the Lord.
or:
R. Alleluia.
I rejoiced because they said to me,
“We will go up to the house of the LORD.”
And now we have set foot
within your gates, O Jerusalem.
R. Let us go rejoicing to the house of the Lord.
or:
R. Alleluia.
Jerusalem, built as a city
with compact unity.
To it the tribes go up,
the tribes of the LORD.
R. Let us go rejoicing to the house of the Lord.
or:
R. Alleluia.
According to the decree for Israel,
to give thanks to the name of the LORD.
In it are set up judgment seats,
seats for the house of David.
R. Let us go rejoicing to the house of the Lord.
or:
R. Alleluia.

Alleluia Jn 15:4a, 5b

R. Alleluia, alleluia.
Remain in me, as I remain in you, says the Lord;
whoever remains in me will bear much fruit.
R. Alleluia, alleluia.

Gospel Jn 15:1-8

Jesus said to his disciples:
“I am the true vine, and my Father is the vine grower.
He takes away every branch in me that does not bear fruit,
and everyone that does he prunes so that it bears more fruit.
You are already pruned because of the word that I spoke to you.
Remain in me, as I remain in you.
Just as a branch cannot bear fruit on its own
unless it remains on the vine,
so neither can you unless you remain in me.
I am the vine, you are the branches.
Whoever remains in me and I in him will bear much fruit,
because without me you can do nothing.
Anyone who does not remain in me
will be thrown out like a branch and wither;
people will gather them and throw them into a fire
and they will be burned.
If you remain in me and my words remain in you,
ask for whatever you want and it will be done for you.
By this is my Father glorified,
that you bear much fruit and become my disciples.”

Peace In Pain

The WORD today (see http://usccb.org/bible/readings/042616.cfm) reminds me that God gives us peace that works amidst pain. 

They say peace is not the opposite of war. And peace is not just the absence of war. It is more than that. There may be no war but there is also no peace among people. And in the gospel, we see Jesus give peace to the disciples. Peace that transcends war and suffering. Peace that enables them to continue, to move forward despite war, challenges and pain. 

God's peace enables us to be focused and calm amidst pain and challenges. 

Still in the gospel, Jesus tells them that the ruler of this world is coming. Yes, Jesus is not the ruler of this world. He also said this when he was arrested, when he told Pilate that his kingdom is not on this earth. If it were, he would not suffer and die as he did. He ruler of this world is the evil one, that's why there are a lot of evil and injustice in this world. That is why Jesus told his disciples to be in this world, but not of this world. Therefore, the ruler of this world has power over the world. 

We see this in the first reading. The disciples experienced persecutions. Paul was almost stoned to death. Because the evil one has power in this world. And they know this. The disciples know they will experience hardships and sufferings, but they should not give up. They do not give up because they have Christ's peace that enables them to keep on working for God's kingdom in spite of all the opposition and challenges. 

We too may have been experiencing pain and challenges as we do God's work. As we try to live right. Evil people are prospering. Dishonest people are rewarded with earthly wealth. But we should always take God's peace and just focus on him, on doing what he wants from us. And we will eventually be rewarded. 

May we take in and use God's divine peace amidst all the challenges and pain in this world. 

Father God,

Thank you for today. Thank you for another day to live. Thank you for another chance to love and serve you. Thank you for the reminder. Lord, sorry for the times I let the world win over me. Sorry for being stressed and overwhelmed by this world. Help me remember that your peace is in me. That your peace is more powerful than the powers of the world. May I continue to live right, to live pleasing to you despite of everything. Amen. 

Blessed day!

In Christ,

-g-

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April 26, 2016
Tuesday of Fifth Week of Easter
Lectionary: 286

Reading 1 Acts 14:19-28

In those days, some Jews from Antioch and Iconium
arrived and won over the crowds.
They stoned Paul and dragged him out of the city,
supposing that he was dead.
But when the disciples gathered around him,
he got up and entered the city.
On the following day he left with Barnabas for Derbe.

After they had proclaimed the good news to that city
and made a considerable number of disciples,
they returned to Lystra and to Iconium and to Antioch.
They strengthened the spirits of the disciples
and exhorted them to persevere in the faith, saying,
“It is necessary for us to undergo many hardships
to enter the Kingdom of God.”
They appointed presbyters for them in each Church and,
with prayer and fasting, commended them to the Lord
in whom they had put their faith.
Then they traveled through Pisidia and reached Pamphylia.
After proclaiming the word at Perga they went down to Attalia.
From there they sailed to Antioch,
where they had been commended to the grace of God
for the work they had now accomplished.
And when they arrived, they called the Church together
and reported what God had done with them
and how he had opened the door of faith to the Gentiles.
Then they spent no little time with the disciples.

Responsorial Psalm PS 145:10-11, 12-13ab, 21

R. (see 12) Your friends make known, O Lord, the glorious splendor of your kingdom.
or:
R. Alleluia.
Let all your works give you thanks, O LORD,
and let your faithful ones bless you.
Let them discourse of the glory of your kingdom
and speak of your might.
R. Your friends make known, O Lord, the glorious splendor of your kingdom.
or:
R. Alleluia.
Making known to men your might
and the glorious splendor of your kingdom.
Your kingdom is a kingdom for all ages,
and your dominion endures through all generations.
R. Your friends make known, O Lord, the glorious splendor of your kingdom.
or:
R. Alleluia.
May my mouth speak the praise of the LORD,
and may all flesh bless his holy name forever and ever.
R. Your friends make known, O Lord, the glorious splendor of your kingdom.
or:
R. Alleluia.

Alleluia See Lk 24:46, 26

R. Alleluia, alleluia.
Christ had to suffer and to rise from the dead,
and so enter into his glory.
R. Alleluia, alleluia.

Gospel Jn 14:27-31a

Jesus said to his disciples:
“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you.
Not as the world gives do I give it to you.
Do not let your hearts be troubled or afraid.
You heard me tell you,
‘I am going away and I will come back to you.’
If you loved me,
you would rejoice that I am going to the Father;
for the Father is greater than I.
And now I have told you this before it happens,
so that when it happens you may believe.
I will no longer speak much with you,
for the ruler of the world is coming.
He has no power over me,
but the world must know that I love the Father
and that I do just as the Father has commanded me.”

Work for Christ

The WORD today (see http://usccb.org/bible/readings/042516.cfm) reminds me that I should work for Christ, no matter how huge or small my contribution is. 

In the corporate world, those who make huge contributions are highlighted and praised. Senior management honor those who contribute a lot to the organization. On the other hand, hardworking people who may not necessarily have huge contributions, but do their best to help and contribute, are not given much attention. This causes these people to lose morale. However, this is not the way with God's kingdom. 

God values everything we do for him - big or small. 

As we celebrate the feast of St Mark, we are reminded of this. In the gospel we see that Jesus told his disciples to go our into the world and proclaim the gospel. His disciples followed and preached about the gospel after Jesus was taken into heaven. They really did this as we see In the first reading that Peter and Mark are still doing God's work and proclaiming Jesus to others. 

Mark was one of the twelve in the gospel, and he continued Christ's commandment to work for Him and preach about the gospel. In the first reading, Peter tells that Mark still does this. Mark may not have written a lot, like Paul and Peter, but we see that he was still doing God's work. No matter how small your contribution may seem, God acknowledges it as we see in today's feast. What is important is we follow his commandment. 

As we do God's work, we are not empty handed. Jesus spent years with his disciples, teaching and guiding them. He did not just choose twelve and sent them out. In the gospel he told them that he will always be with them, and there would be signs not for them to believe, but for others to be affirmed that God is indeed on their side. Jesus is with us as we do God's work. From then, until now. 

May we be inspired by Mark and all others who tirelessly work for God. May we do our part, no matter how small we feel our service may be.  And as we do so, as we work for God, let us not be surprised of God's signs and power manifesting in us for God's glory. 

Father God,

Thank you for today. Thank you for another day to live. Thank you for another chance to live for you. Thank you for the reminder. Lord, I am sorry for feeling small. Sorry for looking down on myself, on my talents, and on what I can do for you. I know you appreciate whatever I can offer, and you will magnify it. Lord give me the desire, the will and strength to always work for you in little and big ways. Amen.

Blessed week!

In Christ,

-g-

Ps

See related reflections:

http://mysimplereflection.blogspot.com/2013/04/evangelist-in-me.html

http://mysimplereflection.blogspot.com/2015/04/last-will.html

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April 25, 2016
Feast of Saint Mark, Evangelist
Lectionary: 555

Reading 1 1 Pt 5:5b-14

Beloved:
Clothe yourselves with humility
in your dealings with one another, for:

God opposes the proud
but bestows favor on the humble.

So humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God,
that he may exalt you in due time.
Cast all your worries upon him because he cares for you.

Be sober and vigilant.
Your opponent the Devil is prowling around like a roaring lion
looking for someone to devour.
Resist him, steadfast in faith,
knowing that your brothers and sisters throughout the world
undergo the same sufferings.
The God of all grace
who called you to his eternal glory through Christ Jesus
will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you
after you have suffered a little.
To him be dominion forever. Amen.

I write you this briefly through Silvanus,
whom I consider a faithful brother,
exhorting you and testifying that this is the true grace of God.
Remain firm in it.
The chosen one at Babylon sends you greeting, as does Mark, my son.
Greet one another with a loving kiss.
Peace to all of you who are in Christ.

Responsorial Psalm PS 89:2-3, 6-7, 16-17

R. (2) For ever I will sing the goodness of the Lord.
or:
R. Alleluia.
The favors of the LORD I will sing forever;
through all generations my mouth shall proclaim your faithfulness.
For you have said, “My kindness is established forever”;
in heaven you have confirmed your faithfulness.
R. For ever I will sing the goodness of the Lord.
or:
R. Alleluia.
The heavens proclaim your wonders, O LORD,
and your faithfulness, in the assembly of the holy ones.
For who in the skies can rank with the LORD?
Who is like the LORD among the sons of God?
R. For ever I will sing the goodness of the Lord.
or:
R. Alleluia.
Blessed the people who know the joyful shout;
in the light of your countenance, O LORD, they walk.
At your name they rejoice all the day,
and through your justice they are exalted.
R. For ever I will sing the goodness of the Lord.
or:
R. Alleluia.

Alleluia 1 Cor 1:23a-24b

R. Alleluia, alleluia.
We proclaim Christ crucified;
he is the power of God and the wisdom of God.
R. Alleluia, alleluia.

Gospel Mk 16:15-20

Jesus appeared to the Eleven and said to them:
“Go into the whole world
and proclaim the Gospel to every creature.
Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved;
whoever does not believe will be condemned.
These signs will accompany those who believe:
in my name they will drive out demons,
they will speak new languages.
They will pick up serpents with their hands,
and if they drink any deadly thing, it will not harm them.
They will lay hands on the sick, and they will recover.”

Then the Lord Jesus, after he spoke to them,
was taken up into heaven
and took his seat at the right hand of God.
But they went forth and preached everywhere,
while the Lord worked with them
and confirmed the word through accompanying signs.

Love Like Jesus

The WORD today (see http://usccb.org/bible/readings/042416.cfm) reminds me that Jesus wants us to love others and make his love more alive in this world. 

In today's gospel, we see Jesus telling us twice that we are commanded to love each other. It says:

"This is my commandment: love one another as I love you.

.

.

.

This I command you: love one another.”

If he says it twice, he must really be serious! And it is not a request or a favor. It is a commandment. That we should love one another. 

He commanded us to love one a other. Not just to love him. Our love for God should be lived as we love one another - especially those unlovable. It is easy to love family and friends, those who have been good to you. But God did not say to just love those easy to love. In the same way he died for us, we too should also die of our desires and allow God to love others through us. 

Loving one another does not always entail pain or sacrifice. We can love others by not joining people who treat an annoying or weird person badly. We can love others by sharing our food to those who does not have much. We can love others by lending a listening ear to a friend who is depressed and lonely. Simple things, done out of love, become great actions. 

Who does God want me to love in a personal way today? How can I love him/her? What is Jesus telling me about love?

Father God,

Thank you for today. Thank you for another day to live. Thank you for another day to love. Sorry for the times I choose who to love. Sorry for loving only those easy to love. Help me love like you do. Lord, help me love others because I love you. In my own little way, may I remind them of your love. In my own little way, may I make your love more alive in this world.  Amen. 

Blessed Sunday!

In Christ,

-g-

Ps 

See related reflections:

http://mysimplereflection.blogspot.com/2015/05/love-one-another.html

http://mysimplereflection.blogspot.com/2015/05/love-one-another_10.html

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April 24, 2016
Fifth Sunday of Easter
Lectionary: 54

Reading 1 Acts 14:21-27

After Paul and Barnabas had proclaimed the good news
to that city
and made a considerable number of disciples,
they returned to Lystra and to Iconium and to Antioch.
They strengthened the spirits of the disciples
and exhorted them to persevere in the faith, saying,
“It is necessary for us to undergo many hardships
to enter the kingdom of God.”
They appointed elders for them in each church and,
with prayer and fasting, commended them to the Lord
in whom they had put their faith.
Then they traveled through Pisidia and reached Pamphylia.
After proclaiming the word at Perga they went down to Attalia.
From there they sailed to Antioch,
where they had been commended to the grace of God
for the work they had now accomplished.
And when they arrived, they called the church together
and reported what God had done with them
and how he had opened the door of faith to the Gentiles.

Responsorial Psalm Ps 145:8-9, 10-11, 12-13

R. (cf. 1) I will praise your name for ever, my king and my God.
or:
R. Alleluia.
The LORD is gracious and merciful,
slow to anger and of great kindness.
The LORD is good to all
and compassionate toward all his works.
R. I will praise your name for ever, my king and my God.
or:
R. Alleluia.
Let all your works give you thanks, O LORD,
and let your faithful ones bless you.
Let them discourse of the glory of your kingdom
and speak of your might.
R. I will praise your name for ever, my king and my God.
or:
R. Alleluia.
Let them make known your might to the children of Adam,
and the glorious splendor of your kingdom.
Your kingdom is a kingdom for all ages,
and your dominion endures through all generations.
R. I will praise your name for ever, my king and my God.
or:
R. Alleluia.

Reading 2 Rev 21:1-5a

Then I, John, saw a new heaven and a new earth.
The former heaven and the former earth had passed away,
and the sea was no more.
I also saw the holy city, a new Jerusalem,
coming down out of heaven from God,
prepared as a bride adorned for her husband.
I heard a loud voice from the throne saying,
“Behold, God’s dwelling is with the human race.
He will dwell with them and they will be his people
and God himself will always be with them as their God.
He will wipe every tear from their eyes,
and there shall be no more death or mourning, wailing or pain,
for the old order has passed away.”

The One who sat on the throne said,
“Behold, I make all things new.”

Alleluia Jn 13:34

R. Alleluia, alleluia.
I give you a new commandment, says the Lord:
love one another as I have loved you.
R. Alleluia, alleluia.

Gospel Jn 13:31-33a, 34-35

When Judas had left them, Jesus said,
“Now is the Son of Man glorified, and God is glorified in him.
If God is glorified in him,
God will also glorify him in himself,
and God will glorify him at once.
My children, I will be with you only a little while longer.
I give you a new commandment: love one another.
As I have loved you, so you also should love one another.
This is how all will know that you are my disciples,
if you have love for one another.”

In Jesus' Name

The WORD today (see http://usccb.org/bible/readings/042316.cfm) reminds me how powerful Jesus' name is. 

Here in our country, name dropping is common. And a lot of times, it works if used well. We mention the name of a powerful person to get us out of trouble, or to get favors. Just the mere name can do a lot. this is often used in a negative way though. Jesus name, however, is more powerful that that and is used in a positive way. 

Just the mere name of Jesus is powerful. 

Jesus name is very powerful. In the bible it says that at the name of Jesus, every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth, and under the earth. (Philippians 2:10). Saying Jesus name is also the simplest way of praying (CCC 2668). 

In the gospel today, we see Jesus telling us how powerful his name is. 

And whatever you ask in my name, I will do, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If you ask anything of me in my name, I will do it.”

However, his name is not magic. We cannot expect that saying his name will grant us whatever wish we have. His name is not something you can blackmail God for. We should have faith as we say his name. We should have a good relationship with him as we pray in his name. We should have one goal - to glorify God, not ourselves, as we ask in his name. Then as it is in accordance to God's plans, what we ask for will be given us. 

May we always remember how simple yet so powerful Jesus name is. And make it our simple yet effective prayer. 

How do I treat Jesus name? Do I treat it with reverence, or has it become a normal name r expression for me? Do I pray and ask in Jesus name?

Father God,

Thank you for today. Thank you for another weekend. Thank you for your love and your name. Thank you for a simple yet very powerful prayer - Jesus. May I always be reminded of your great love and power through Jesus name. In a special way we ask that you welcome in your kingdom all the souls of our beloved, and may you comfort and strengthen the family they have left behind. In Jesus name, Amen.

Blessed weekend!

In Christ,

-g-

Ps

See related reflections:

http://mysimplereflection.blogspot.com/2013/04/power-of-name.html

http://mysimplereflection.blogspot.com/2012/05/asking-in-his-name.html

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April 23, 2016
Saturday of the Fourth Week of Easter
Lectionary: 284

Reading 1 Acts 13:44-52

On the following sabbath
almost the whole city
gathered to hear the word of the Lord.
When the Jews saw the crowds, they were filled with jealousy
and with violent abuse contradicted what Paul said.
Both Paul and Barnabas spoke out boldly and said,
“It was necessary that the word of God be spoken to you first,
but since you reject it
and condemn yourselves as unworthy of eternal life,
we now turn to the Gentiles.
For so the Lord has commanded us,
I have made you a light to the Gentiles,
that you may be an instrument of salvation
to the ends of the earth.”

The Gentiles were delighted when they heard this
and glorified the word of the Lord.
All who were destined for eternal life came to believe,
and the word of the Lord continued to spread
through the whole region.
The Jews, however, incited the women of prominence who were worshipers
and the leading men of the city,
stirred up a persecution against Paul and Barnabas,
and expelled them from their territory.
So they shook the dust from their feet in protest against them
and went to Iconium.
The disciples were filled with joy and the Holy Spirit.

Responsorial Psalm PS 98:1, 2-3ab, 3cd-4

R. (3cd) All the ends of the earth have seen the saving power of God.
or:
R. Alleluia.
Sing to the LORD a new song,
for he has done wondrous deeds;
His right hand has won victory for him,
his holy arm.
R. All the ends of the earth have seen the saving power of God.
or:
R. Alleluia.
The LORD has made his salvation known:
in the sight of the nations he has revealed his justice.
He has remembered his kindness and his faithfulness
toward the house of Israel.
R. All the ends of the earth have seen the saving power of God.
or:
R. Alleluia.
All the ends of the earth have seen
the salvation by our God.
Sing joyfully to the LORD, all you lands;
break into song; sing praise.
R. All the ends of the earth have seen the saving power of God.
or:
R. Alleluia.

Alleluia Jn 8:31b-32

R. Alleluia, alleluia.
I fyou remain in my word, you will truly be my disciples,
and you will know the truth, says the Lord.
R. Alleluia, alleluia.

Gospel Jn 14:7-14

Jesus said to his disciples:
“If you know me, then you will also know my Father.
From now on you do know him and have seen him.”
Philip said to Jesus,
“Master, show us the Father, and that will be enough for us.”
Jesus said to him, “Have I been with you for so long a time
and you still do not know me, Philip?
Whoever has seen me has seen the Father.
How can you say, ‘Show us the Father’?
Do you not believe that I am in the Father and the Father is in me?
The words that I speak to you I do not speak on my own.
The Father who dwells in me is doing his works.
Believe me that I am in the Father and the Father is in me,
or else, believe because of the works themselves.
Amen, amen, I say to you,
whoever believes in me will do the works that I do,
and will do greater ones than these,
because I am going to the Father.
And whatever you ask in my name, I will do,
so that the Father may be glorified in the Son.
If you ask anything of me in my name, I will do it.”

Worry and Faith

The WORD today (see http://usccb.org/bible/readings/042216.cfm) reminds me that my faith should always bigger than my fears and worries. 

They say that worries do not empty tomorrow of it's sorrow. It empties today of its strength. This is true in a lot of situations. There are a lot of bad effects of worrying. There are studies that show that worrying and stress activate bad cells in the body and weaken the immune system, thus worrying can lead to sickness. Not only that, there are people who worry too much that it can trigger a heart attack that can be fatal. And the gospel today tells us one way we can fight being worried. 

Faith in God should be bigger than our worries. 

In the gospel, Jesus said : 

"Do not let your hearts be troubled.
You have faith in God; have faith also in me

Do not worry. Have faith. Short but very powerful words from Jesus himself. Let us imagine Jesus telling us these words as we face life’s challenges. Jesus told these words to his disciples during the last supper. He told them he would die, that he would suffer, that he would be betrayed. Imagine how the disciples must have felt. Their leader for years will soon die a humiliating death. What would happen to them? Who would guide and protect them? These probably were some of the questions going on in their minds.

In our lives, we face challenges everyday. Some may not be as painful or hard as others, but we should take comfort in Jesus’ words. He is asking us to have faith in Him, the Son of God. Faith that knows he will take care of us. Faith that submits ourselves to his divine will. Faith that allows us to die of ourselves so that he may live in us. Faith that would be the source of inner peace, knowing He is in control. Faith.

What is troubling my heart now?  Why?  Are the challenges I am facing bigger than God? Am I letting them block my view of God? Why can I not focus on God, his power and his love for me? How can I improve my faith in God? Am I praying to God to help me strengthen my faith?

May we always remember Christ’s words. Do not worry. Have faith. Let us remember who is saying this to us, as the first reading and psalm says – “You are my Son, this day I have begotten you” The only Son of God tells us this. Do not worry. Have faith.

Father God,

Thank you for today. Thank you for another day to live. Thank you for another weekend coming up. Thank you for the very beautiful reminder to have faith in you. Lord, sorry for the many times I forget this. Sorry for the many times I let my fears, concerns and worries get the best of me. Sorry for letting the world drown me. remind me always of your love and power. Increase my faith. May I always be sensitive to your love and miracles in my life. May I always be sensitive to your power in my life. As I face life's challenges, I will be stronger because of my faith in you. Amen. 

Blessed day!

In Christ,

-g-

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April 22, 2016
Friday of the Fourth Week of Easter
Lectionary: 283

Reading 1 Acts 13:26-33

When Paul came to Antioch in Pisidia, he said in the synagogue:
“My brothers, children of the family of Abraham,
and those others among you who are God-fearing,
to us this word of salvation has been sent.
The inhabitants of Jerusalem and their leaders failed to recognize him,
and by condemning him they fulfilled the oracles of the prophets
that are read sabbath after sabbath.
For even though they found no grounds for a death sentence,
they asked Pilate to have him put to death,
and when they had accomplished all that was written about him,
they took him down from the tree and placed him in a tomb.
But God raised him from the dead,
and for many days he appeared to those
who had come up with him from Galilee to Jerusalem.
These are now his witnesses before the people.
We ourselves are proclaiming this good news to you
that what God promised our fathers
he has brought to fulfillment for us, their children, by raising up Jesus,
as it is written in the second psalm,
You are my Son; this day I have begotten you.”

Responsorial Psalm Ps 2:6-7, 8-9, 10-11ab

R. (7bc) You are my Son; this day I have begotten you.
or:
R. Alleluia.
“I myself have set up my king
on Zion, my holy mountain.”
I will proclaim the decree of the LORD:
The LORD said to me, “You are my Son;
this day I have begotten you.”
R. You are my Son; this day I have begotten you.
or:
R. Alleluia.
“Ask of me and I will give you
the nations for an inheritance
and the ends of the earth for your possession.
You shall rule them with an iron rod;
you shall shatter them like an earthen dish.”
R. You are my Son; this day I have begotten you.
or:
R. Alleluia.
And now, O kings, give heed;
take warning, you rulers of the earth.
Serve the LORD with fear, and rejoice before him;
with trembling rejoice.
R. You are my Son; this day I have begotten you.
or:
R. Alleluia.

Alleluia Jn 14:6

R. Alleluia, alleluia.
I am the way and the truth and the life, says the Lord;
no one comes to the Father except through me.
R. Alleluia, alleluia.

Gospel Jn 14:1-6

Jesus said to his disciples:
“Do not let your hearts be troubled.
You have faith in God; have faith also in me.
In my Father’s house there are many dwelling places.
If there were not,
would I have told you that I am going to prepare a place for you?
And if I go and prepare a place for you,
I will come back again and take you to myself,
so that where I am you also may be.
Where I am going you know the way.”
Thomas said to him,
“Master, we do not know where you are going;
how can we know the way?”
Jesus said to him, “I am the way and the truth and the life.
No one comes to the Father except through me.”

Serve

The WORD today (see http://usccb.org/bible/readings/042116.cfm) reminds me that we should serve God. 

Serviam is Latin for “I will serve.” This was St Michael the Archangel’s response to God. On the other hand, Non Serviam was Lucifer’s response to God.

Jesus, the Son of God, the King of kings, did not come to this world to be served. He did not come as a mighty ruler lording over us. He did not even come into this world in a nice place, not on a hospital or inn. He did not live in mansions or palaces. Jesus came as a helpless child, born in a stable, lived in a simple town as a carpenter’s son, proclaimed God’s kingdom, healed people died for us, and eventually rose from the dead. In the gospel today, after washing the feet of his disciples , he told them that no slave is greater than his master. We who call God our master, should follow his ways. 

We should serve others, just as Jesus served us. 

As children, as followers of Christ, we are asked to serve Him as well. Serving God starts with a decision – a decision to serve God, a decision to say Yes to Him. St Michael’s “serviam” is a testimony of that decision to serve God. Mary’s “Fiat” was her “yes” to God. We may not be perfect, we may have concerns, weaknesses and issues, but we are all called to serve God. Only when we give our own yes to God can he use us mightily. Great servants in the bible all had concerns, but their yes to God was all God needed to use them and work through them, only then could they do great things for and through God.

We see this in the first reading, when Paul continued to serve God. He continued to preach and share God to others. It was not easy. He had to travel a lot. It was dangerous because people were against him. But he understood this commandment. He understood that just as Jesus served us despite all his concerns and all the challenges, so should he. 

Do I live my life in service of God? Do I want to serve God, or do I want God to serve me and give me what I want? Do I serve other people, knowing that God is alive and present in each one of us, or do I expect other people to serve me? Do I wait until things are perfect, until I don’t have major concerns, before I serve God and others?

May we be reminded of Christ's commandment for us to serve, and resolve to say yes to serving God through our lives. 

Father God,

Thank you for today. Thank you for another day to live. Thank you for loving me. Thank you for seeing me in me what I sometimes, or most of the times, don’t see. Thank you Lord for deeming me worthy of your love, your everlasting and unconditional love. Thank you for loving and serving me even if I don’t deserve it, even if I hurt you every time I sin. Lord, I ask that you give me a heart of service. Give me a heart that would desire to love and serve you. Give me a heart that would be willing to go out of my comfort zone to serve you. Lord, I give you my Yes, my serviam, my fiat, and I ask that you guide me and be with me all throughout. Lord, life is not easy, I too have problems and concerns of my own, but I just lift up everything to you. Give me a heart to be a wounded servant, continuously serving and loving you no matter what. Amen.

Blessed day!

In Christ,

-g-

Ps

See related reflections:

http://mysimplereflection.blogspot.com/2015/07/servant.html

http://mysimplereflection.blogspot.com/2013/08/serve-despite-of.html

http://mysimplereflection.blogspot.com/2015/12/serve.html

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April 21, 2016
Thursday of the Fourth Week of Easter
Lectionary: 282

Reading 1 Acts 13:13-25

From Paphos, Paul and his companions
set sail and arrived at Perga in Pamphylia.
But John left them and returned to Jerusalem.
They continued on from Perga and reached Antioch in Pisidia.
On the sabbath they entered into the synagogue and took their seats.
After the reading of the law and the prophets,
the synagogue officials sent word to them,
“My brothers, if one of you has a word of exhortation
for the people, please speak.”

So Paul got up, motioned with his hand, and said,
“Fellow children of Israel and you others who are God-fearing, listen.
The God of this people Israel chose our ancestors
and exalted the people during their sojourn in the land of Egypt.
With uplifted arm he led them out,
and for about forty years he put up with them in the desert.
When he had destroyed seven nations in the land of Canaan,
he gave them their land as an inheritance
at the end of about four hundred and fifty years.
After these things he provided judges up to Samuel the prophet.
Then they asked for a king.
God gave them Saul, son of Kish,
a man from the tribe of Benjamin, for forty years.
Then he removed him and raised up David as their king;
of him he testified,
I have found David, son of Jesse, a man after my own heart;
he will carry out my every wish.
From this man’s descendants God, according to his promise,
has brought to Israel a savior, Jesus.
John heralded his coming by proclaiming a baptism of repentance
to all the people of Israel;
and as John was completing his course, he would say,
‘What do you suppose that I am? I am not he.
Behold, one is coming after me;
I am not worthy to unfasten the sandals of his feet.’”

Responsorial Psalm PS 89:2-3, 21-22, 25 and 27

R. (2) For ever I will sing the goodness of the Lord.
or:
R. Alleluia.
The favors of the LORD I will sing forever;
through all generations my mouth shall proclaim your faithfulness.
For you have said, “My kindness is established forever”;
in heaven you have confirmed your faithfulness.
R. For ever I will sing the goodness of the Lord.
or:
R. Alleluia.
“I have found David, my servant;
with my holy oil I have anointed him,
That my hand may be always with him,
and that my arm may make him strong.”
R. For ever I will sing the goodness of the Lord.
or:
R. Alleluia.
“My faithfulness and my mercy shall be with him,
and through my name shall his horn be exalted.
He shall say of me, ‘You are my father,
my God, the Rock, my savior.’”
R. For ever I will sing the goodness of the Lord.
or:
R. Alleluia.

Alleluia See Rev 1:5ab

R. Alleluia, alleluia.
Jesus Christ, you are the faithful witness,
the firstborn of the dead,
you have loved us and freed us from our sins by your Blood.
R. Alleluia, alleluia.

Gospel Jn 13:16-20

When Jesus had washed the disciples’ feet, he said to them:
“Amen, amen, I say to you, no slave is greater than his master
nor any messenger greater than the one who sent him.
If you understand this, blessed are you if you do it.
I am not speaking of all of you.
I know those whom I have chosen.
But so that the Scripture might be fulfilled,
The one who ate my food has raised his heel against me.
From now on I am telling you before it happens,
so that when it happens you may believe that I AM.
Amen, amen, I say to you, whoever receives the one I send
receives me, and whoever receives me receives the one who sent me.”