All Year Round

The WORD today (see http://usccb.org/bible/readings/123116.cfm) reminds me that God is with us all year round. 

Today we are on the last day of the year. And as we end the year, we also see the readings tell us that the end is near. Come to think of it, everyday we are getting one day closer to the end. However, even though the first reading talks about the end, we see the opposite in the gospel. The gospel tells about the beginning - that God was there from the beginning. This is a great reminder that God is with us always – from the beginning until the end. 

God is with us all year round.

Children, it is the last hour;

and just as you heard that the antichrist was coming,

so now many antichrists have appeared.

Thus we know this is the last hour.

….

In the beginning was the Word,

and the Word was with God,

and the Word was God.

He was in the beginning with God.

All things came to be through him,

and without him nothing came to be.

The psalmist tells us how we should act that God is with us all year round: Let the heavens be glad and the earth rejoice!

No matter what the situation is. No matter how tough it may be, or how happy it is, God is always there. It is an assurance, especially during tough times, that God is there. This should make us glad. This should inspire us. 

As we end the year, we have experienced a lot. A lot of joys and triumphs, and a lot of hardships and challenges as well. But throughout all these things, in all situations, there is one thing constant – God. 

We should never forget that he is always with us, and will always be with us whatever we go through in life.

What are the most memorable moments of 2016 for me – both joys and sorrows? Did I feel God being with me all throughout the year? How? What can I do to make his presence more alive and real in my life? What does knowledge of Him being always there bring me?

May we always be glad, knowing that whatever we go through, God is with us.

Father God,

Thank you for today. Thank you for another day to live. And thank you for another year. Thank you for 2016! As we close this year, I want to thank you for always being with my in my journey. Thank you for all the blessings. Thank you for all the victories, joys and triumphs I experienced in my life. Thank you for your goodness. Thank you for reminding me how loving you are and how loved I am. I also thank you for all the challenges and hardships, for these things made me stronger and made me cling to you more. Sorry for the many times I forget you. Sorry for forgetting that you are there, especially when times are tough. Remind me. Increase my faith. Lord, I ask that you continue to be patient with me, that you continue to be with me and mold be until I become more and more like you. May I continue to walk in faith and walk with you. Amen.

Blessed weekend!

In Christ,

-g-

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December 31, 2016
The Seventh Day in the Octave of Christmas
Lectionary: 204

Reading 1 1 Jn 2:18-21

Children, it is the last hour;
and just as you heard that the antichrist was coming,
so now many antichrists have appeared.
Thus we know this is the last hour.
They went out from us, but they were not really of our number;
if they had been, they would have remained with us.
Their desertion shows that none of them was of our number.
But you have the anointing that comes from the Holy One,
and you all have knowledge.
I write to you not because you do not know the truth
but because you do, and because every lie is alien to the truth.

Responsorial Psalm Ps 96:1-2, 11-12, 13

R. (11a) Let the heavens be glad and the earth rejoice!
Sing to the LORD a new song;
sing to the LORD, all you lands.
Sing to the LORD; bless his name;
announce his salvation, day after day.
R. Let the heavens be glad and the earth rejoice!
Let the heavens be glad and the earth rejoice;
let the sea and what fills it resound;
let the plains be joyful and all that is in them!
Then shall all the trees of the forest exult before the LORD.
R. Let the heavens be glad and the earth rejoice!
The LORD comes,
he comes to rule the earth.
He shall rule the world with justice
and the peoples with his constancy.
R. Let the heavens be glad and the earth rejoice!

Alleluia Jn 1:14a, 12a

R. Alleluia, alleluia.
The Word of God became flesh and dwelt among us.
To those who accepted him
he gave power to become the children of God.
R. Alleluia, alleluia.

Gospel Jn 1:1-18

In the beginning was the Word,
and the Word was with God,
and the Word was God.
He was in the beginning with God.
All things came to be through him,
and without him nothing came to be.
What came to be through him was life,
and this life was the light of the human race;
the light shines in the darkness,
and the darkness has not overcome it.

A man named John was sent from God.
He came for testimony, to testify to the light,
so that all might believe through him.
He was not the light,
but came to testify to the light.
The true light, which enlightens everyone, was coming into the world.

He was in the world,
and the world came to be through him,
but the world did not know him.
He came to what was his own,
but his own people did not accept him.

But to those who did accept him
he gave power to become children of God,
to those who believe in his name,
who were born not by natural generation
nor by human choice nor by a man’s decision
but of God.

And the Word became flesh
and made his dwelling among us,
and we saw his glory,
the glory as of the Father’s only-begotten Son,
full of grace and truth.

John testified to him and cried out, saying,
“This was he of whom I said,
‘The one who is coming after me ranks ahead of me
because he existed before me.’”
From his fullness we have all received,
grace in place of grace,
because while the law was given through Moses,
grace and truth came through Jesus Christ.
No one has ever seen God.
The only-begotten Son, God, who is at the Father’s side,
has revealed him.

Holy Family

The WORD today (see http://usccb.org/bible/readings/123016.cfm) reminds me that I should do my part to have my own Holy Family 

The basic unit of society is the family. It is very important, although nowadays there are a lot of things and forces that threaten the family. Unfortunately, some (or a lot) of people now give more importance to the self rather than family. Self first - If things are not doing well between spouses, instead of working together to improve things, they just opt to separate – which affects the children. Some people love themselves too much, that sex is done outside marriage or even if they feel they’re not ready to have a baby, and when something happens, they choose themselves and let go of the baby. 

Family is important, and God wants us not only to remember that, but to live that.

The fourth commandment, the first pertaining to human beings, tells us to honor our parents. In the first reading we see again how important respecting parents are. Aside from it being a commandment of God, doing it has a lot of promised rewards. Indeed, no matter how imperfect our parents may be, God wants us to honor, respect, serve and love them. Looking at our lives, they were the first to show us unconditional love. They were the first to make us feel what love is. They were the first Jesus in our lives, and this is the least we can do to thank them and to show them how much we appreciate and love them. 

God sets a father in honor over his children;

a mother’s authority he confirms over her sons.

Whoever honors his father atones for sins,

and preserves himself from them.

When he prays, he is heard;

he stores up riches who reveres his mother.

Whoever honors his father is gladdened by children,

and, when he prays, is heard.

Whoever reveres his father will live a long life;

he who obeys his father brings comfort to his mother.

My son, take care of your father when he is old;

grieve him not as long as he lives.

Even if his mind fail, be considerate of him;

revile him not all the days of his life;

kindness to a father will not be forgotten,

firmly planted against the debt of your sins

—a house raised in justice to you.

The gospel shows us that Jesus, God’s only Son, had an earthly family. He had earthly parents. This shows us how important family is to God, that he gave his Son an earthly family. And God continued to take care of Jesus and his earthly family as we see in the gospel. 

Am I thankful for my family? What things have I realized today? How can I improve my family? How can I love my parents more? Am I willing to raise a family like the Holy Family – founded on God? 

May we always be thankful for the gift of family. May we always see the importance of family and always look at our parents with high respect and authority.  And for those of us who already have their own family, may we work harder to make God’s love real and alive in our own family, and aspire to emulate Jesus and his holy earthly family.

Father God,

Thank you for today. Thank you for another day to live. Thank you for loving me. Thank you for the gift of family. Thank you for using my family to make me feel your love. I am sorry for the times I take my family for granted. I am sorry for the times I fail to treat my parents the way you want me to. I pray that you help me be a better person, to be a better child or parent to my family.  May I be able to show to my parents, my children, and my family how important they are and how much I love them. May I love you through my family. Amen. 

Blessed day!

In Christ,

-g-

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December 30, 2016
The Holy Family of Jesus, Mary and Joseph
Lectionary: 17

When a Sunday does not occur between December 25 and January 1, this feast is celebrated on December 30 with only one reading before the Gospel.

Reading 1 Sir 3:2-6, 12-14

God sets a father in honor over his children;
a mother’s authority he confirms over her sons.
Whoever honors his father atones for sins,
and preserves himself from them.
When he prays, he is heard;
he stores up riches who reveres his mother.
Whoever honors his father is gladdened by children,
and, when he prays, is heard.
Whoever reveres his father will live a long life;
he who obeys his father brings comfort to his mother.

My son, take care of your father when he is old;
grieve him not as long as he lives.
Even if his mind fail, be considerate of him;
revile him not all the days of his life;
kindness to a father will not be forgotten,
firmly planted against the debt of your sins
—a house raised in justice to you.

Or Col 3:12-21

Brothers and sisters:
Put on, as God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved,
heartfelt compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience,
bearing with one another and forgiving one another,
if one has a grievance against another;
as the Lord has forgiven you, so must you also do.
And over all these put on love,
that is, the bond of perfection.
And let the peace of Christ control your hearts,
the peace into which you were also called in one body.
And be thankful.
Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly,
as in all wisdom you teach and admonish one another,
singing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs
with gratitude in your hearts to God.
And whatever you do, in word or in deed,
do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus,
giving thanks to God the Father through him.

Wives, be subordinate to your husbands,
as is proper in the Lord.
Husbands, love your wives,
and avoid any bitterness toward them.
Children, obey your parents in everything,
for this is pleasing to the Lord.
Fathers, do not provoke your children,
so they may not become discouraged.

Or Col 3:12-17

Brothers and sisters:
Put on, as God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved,
heartfelt compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience,
bearing with one another and forgiving one another,
if one has a grievance against another;
as the Lord has forgiven you, so must you also do.
And over all these put on love,
that is, the bond of perfection.
And let the peace of Christ control your hearts,
the peace into which you were also called in one body.
And be thankful.
Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly,
as in all wisdom you teach and admonish one another,
singing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs
with gratitude in your hearts to God.
And whatever you do, in word or in deed,
do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus,
giving thanks to God the Father through him.

Responsorial Psalm Ps 128:1-2, 3, 4-5

R. (cf. 1) Blessed are those who fear the Lord and walk in his ways.
Blessed is everyone who fears the LORD,
who walks in his ways!
For you shall eat the fruit of your handiwork;
blessed shall you be, and favored.
R. Blessed are those who fear the Lord and walk in his ways.
Your wife shall be like a fruitful vine
in the recesses of your home;
your children like olive plants
around your table.
R. Blessed are those who fear the Lord and walk in his ways.
Behold, thus is the man blessed
who fears the LORD.
The LORD bless you from Zion:
may you see the prosperity of Jerusalem
all the days of your life.
R. Blessed are those who fear the Lord and walk in his ways.

Alleluia Col 3:15a, 16a

R. Alleluia, alleluia.
Let the peace of Christ control your hearts;
let the word of Christ dwell in you richly.
R. Alleluia, alleluia.

Gospel Mt 2:13-15, 19-23

When the magi had departed, behold,
the angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream and said,
“Rise, take the child and his mother, flee to Egypt,
and stay there until I tell you.
Herod is going to search for the child to destroy him.”
Joseph rose and took the child and his mother by night
and departed for Egypt.
He stayed there until the death of Herod,
that what the Lord had said through the prophet might be fulfilled,
Out of Egypt I called my son.

When Herod had died, behold,
the angel of the Lord appeared in a dream
to Joseph in Egypt and said,
“Rise, take the child and his mother and go to the land of Israel,
for those who sought the child’s life are dead.”
He rose, took the child and his mother,
and went to the land of Israel.
But when he heard that Archelaus was ruling over Judea
in place of his father Herod,
he was afraid to go back there.
And because he had been warned in a dream,
he departed for the region of Galilee.
He went and dwelt in a town called Nazareth,
so that what had been spoken through the prophets
might be fulfilled,

He shall be called a Nazorean. 

In the Light

The WORD today (see http://usccb.org/bible/readings/122916.cfm) reminds me that I should always live in God's light. 

Whenever there are bazaars where Tshirts are sold, it is not unusual for stores to use UV lights or the violet / light blue bulbs. When I was a kid, I asked my parents to buy a shirt because I really liked it on display under that kind of light. However, when we got home, I was disappointed because under the normal bulb, it looked different! I eventually found out that those lights make things looks better. And the real light, the white lights, really expose the real nature, the real appearance of things. This is what the light of God does.

God’s light exposes the truth.

The first reading reminds us that if we want to really be in and stay in the light, we need to live a life consistent to God’s ways. It is not a one-time decision or once a year action. We cannot say we love Jesus and are followers of Him if we do not always live like it. Being a true Christian is more than just saying it. We need to live it every day, in little and big things. This is what it takes to live in the light of Christ. We need to choose Christ in the little and big decisions that we make every day.

In the gospel, we see a man living this. Simeon was a righteous and devout man, and we see that the Spirit is with him. We can tell that he is living a life consistent with Christ’s values, since he felt and obeyed the Spirit, and as shown when he recognized Jesus in the temple. If we live right, if we live in the light, then we will recognize God visiting us. We will recognize God when he comes to us, no matter what form he takes – be it as a helpless child, a person in need, or an annoying person who needs comfort and understanding.

Christmas day is over, and for some, today is another working day. The last one for the year. However, may we never forget the essence of Christmas. Though Christmas day is over, may we continue to live the values of Christmas. It is easy to profess our faith. What’s more challenging is actually living it day by day. 

May we be inspired and challenged by the Word today to strive to live a life of faith, to live a life in the light of Christ - always. 

Father God,

Thank you for today. Thank you for another day to live. Thank you for this last working day of the year. Thank you for being patient with me. Lord, sorry for not always living in your light. Sorry for being moody in doing your work. Sorry for not consistently living in the way you want me to. Lord, I ask that you help me live and stay in the light. There are a lot of things that distract me in living a life you want me to. Give me the grace and the strength to remain consistent with your word, to live a life pleasing to you, to live and stay in the light and shine with you. Amen.

Blessed day!

In Christ,

-g-

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December 29, 2016
The Fifth Day in the Octave of Christmas
Lectionary: 202

Reading 1 1 Jn 2:3-11

Beloved:
The way we may be sure that we know Jesus
is to keep his commandments.
Whoever says, “I know him,” but does not keep his commandments
is a liar, and the truth is not in him.
But whoever keeps his word,
the love of God is truly perfected in him.
This is the way we may know that we are in union with him:
whoever claims to abide in him ought to walk just as he walked.

Beloved, I am writing no new commandment to you
but an old commandment that you had from the beginning.
The old commandment is the word that you have heard.
And yet I do write a new commandment to you,
which holds true in him and among you,
for the darkness is passing away,
and the true light is already shining.
Whoever says he is in the light,
yet hates his brother, is still in the darkness.
Whoever loves his brother remains in the light,
and there is nothing in him to cause a fall.
Whoever hates his brother is in darkness;
he walks in darkness
and does not know where he is going
because the darkness has blinded his eyes.

Responsorial Psalm Ps 96:1-2a, 2b-3, 5b-6

R. (11a) Let the heavens be glad and the earth rejoice!
Sing to the LORD a new song;
sing to the LORD, all you lands.
Sing to the LORD; bless his name.
R. Let the heavens be glad and the earth rejoice!
Announce his salvation, day after day.
Tell his glory among the nations;
among all peoples, his wondrous deeds.
R. Let the heavens be glad and the earth rejoice!
The LORD made the heavens.
Splendor and majesty go before him;
praise and grandeur are in his sanctuary.
R. Let the heavens be glad and the earth rejoice!

Alleluia Lk 2:32

R. Alleluia, alleluia.
A light of revelation to the Gentiles
and glory for your people Israel.
R. Alleluia, alleluia.

Gospel Lk 2:22-35

When the days were completed for their purification
according to the law of Moses,
the parents of Jesus took him up to Jerusalem
to present him to the Lord,
just as it is written in the law of the Lord,
Every male that opens the womb shall be consecrated to the Lord,
and to offer the sacrifice of
a pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons,
in accordance with the dictate in the law of the Lord.

Now there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon.
This man was righteous and devout,
awaiting the consolation of Israel,
and the Holy Spirit was upon him.
It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit
that he should not see death
before he had seen the Christ of the Lord.
He came in the Spirit into the temple;
and when the parents brought in the child Jesus
to perform the custom of the law in regard to him,
he took him into his arms and blessed God, saying:

“Lord, now let your servant go in peace;
your word has been fulfilled:
my own eyes have seen the salvation
which you prepared in the sight of every people,
a light to reveal you to the nations
and the glory of your people Israel.”

The child’s father and mother were amazed at what was said about him;
and Simeon blessed them and said to Mary his mother,
“Behold, this child is destined
for the fall and rise of many in Israel,
and to be a sign that will be contradicted
(and you yourself a sword will pierce)
so that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.”

God Knows

The WORD today (see http://usccb.org/bible/readings/122816.cfm) reminds me that God's wisdom is infinite, and he knows what is going to happen in our lives, even if we do not understand things.

Today, we celebrate the feast of the Holy Innocents. The gospel tells us what happened. When Herod realized he has been deceived, he ordered the massacre of all the boys two years and below. How horrible, right?

Bad news – bad things will happen in life. The powerful people in the world have power in this world!

Even though God is all powerful and is in control, he is not the ruler of this world we live in. Satan is, and as such, he has power in this temporary, earthly world. and in the gospel, we see that in action.

Good news! God is still in control, even if we do not understand what is happening!

We do not know why those innocent children died. We feel it is unfair and evil. We do not know why God let that happen. We do not know how the parents of those children coped up with what happened. But what we do know is that everything is still in accordance with God’s perfect plan. It was written that this would happen, and salvation still happened when Jesus rose from the dead to save us, so this incident is not enough to destroy God’s perfect plan. God knows what he is doing and what he is allowing to happen.

In our lives, we do not understand a lot of things. If we’re blessed, we will eventually understand things. However, time is not a guarantee. Some things are left for God’s wisdom to know and understand. We simply have to surrender and trust Him. no matter what we are going through right now, no matter how tough things may be, we just need to have faith that God is totally in control, and that as long as we stick to Him, nothing could get in the way of his perfect plan for us.

What previously unclear things before do I understand now? What things in my life do I still not understand? What is my reaction to it?  Do I get mad at God, or do I continue to trust in him?

May we learn to trust and have faith in God's plan, goodness, and infinite wisdom - especially when we do not understand the things that are happening. 

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 question you when I do not understand things. Sorry for doubting you, your plans, and your wisdom. Sorry for not trusting in you enough. Lord, I ask that as we commemorate the feast of the holy innocents, I may learn to surrender to you completely. There are a lot of things I do not understand now, probably things that I will never understand, and I ask that you give me faith and a heart that would just totally surrender to you. I know that you are in control, and that there is nothing that will get in the way of your perfect plan for us, as long as we remain close to you as long as we remain faithful. May we always remember this, and live this. Amen

Blessed day!

In Christ,

-g-

Ps

See related reflection:

http://mysimplereflection.blogspot.com/2013/12/every-little-thing.html

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December 28, 2016
Feast of the Holy Innocents, martyrs
Lectionary: 698

Reading 1 1 Jn 1:5–2:2

Beloved:
This is the message that we have heard from Jesus Christ
and proclaim to you:
God is light, and in him there is no darkness at all.
If we say, “We have fellowship with him,”
while we continue to walk in darkness,
we lie and do not act in truth.
But if we walk in the light as he is in the light,
then we have fellowship with one another,
and the Blood of his Son Jesus cleanses us from all sin.
If we say, “We are without sin,”
we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us.
If we acknowledge our sins, he is faithful and just
and will forgive our sins and cleanse us from every wrongdoing.
If we say, “We have not sinned,” we make him a liar,
and his word is not in us.

My children, I am writing this to you
so that you may not commit sin.
But if anyone does sin, we have an Advocate with the Father,
Jesus Christ the righteous one.
He is expiation for our sins,
and not for our sins only but for those of the whole world.

Responsorial Psalm Ps 124:2-3, 4-5, 7cd-8

R. (7) Our soul has been rescued like a bird from the fowler’s snare.
Had not the LORD been with us—
When men rose up against us,
then would they have swallowed us alive,
When their fury was inflamed against us.
R. Our soul has been rescued like a bird from the fowler’s snare.
Then would the waters have overwhelmed us;
The torrent would have swept over us;
over us then would have swept the raging waters.
R. Our soul has been rescued like a bird from the fowler’s snare.
Broken was the snare,
and we were freed.
Our help is in the name of the LORD,
who made heaven and earth.
R. Our soul has been rescued like a bird from the fowler’s snare.
——

Alleluia - See Te Deum

R. Alleluia, alleluia.
We praise you, O God,
we acclaim you as Lord;
the white-robed army of martyrs praise you.
R. Alleluia, alleluia.

Gospel Mt 2:13-18

When the magi had departed, behold,
the angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream and said,
“Rise, take the child and his mother, flee to Egypt,
and stay there until I tell you.
Herod is going to search for the child to destroy him.”
Joseph rose and took the child and his mother by night
and departed for Egypt.
He stayed there until the death of Herod,
that what the Lord had said through the prophet might be fulfilled,
Out of Egypt I called my son.

When Herod realized that he had been deceived by the magi,
he became furious.
He ordered the massacre of all the boys in Bethlehem and its vicinity
two years old and under,
in accordance with the time he had ascertained from the magi.
Then was fulfilled what had been said through Jeremiah the prophet:

A voice was heard in Ramah,
sobbing and loud lamentation;
Rachel weeping for her children,
and she would not be consoled,

since they were no more.

Share God's Love

The WORD today (see http://usccb.org/bible/readings/122716.cfm) reminds me that I should always share God's love to others. 

They say it is better to give than to receive – and in a lot of ways, this is true. Members of our community generally feel more blessed in giving and in serving others, especially as they serve as sponsors in a retreat, than participating in one. In giving to others, in serving others, we allow God to use us to spread his love to others. The more love we receive from God, the more we want to spread and share it to others.

John probably felt this way. In the gospel, we see him regarded as “the disciple whom Jesus loved.” Some say he is the favorite. Of course, Jesus loved them all, in a way that he loves us all, but probably John was special. He was one who probably felt Christ’s love the most, but this feeling, this being special, did not make him act like a spoiled, selfish person. Instead, this made him love others more, this made him spread God’s love to others, as seen in the first reading. He wanted to share God to others “so that our joy may be complete”

We should share God to others and not keep him for ourselves. 

Knowing God is not for one's gain and appreciation only. Knowing God brings joy, but sharing God to others would bring even greater joy. That is why we are called to share God to others too - to share our stories, our encounters and our faith with others.

Sharing the love, sharing Jesus, is not through preaching only. They say actions speak louder than words. When we do good and help others; when we are constantly trying to do good and be honest; when we continue to be happy and peaceful despite all the challenges we encounter - then that's when we really share God. Why? because That's when people will wonder - what God is this person serving? Why is he so happy and peaceful? Why is she genuinely good? I want to be like him. I want to know his God.

What are my blessings for this year? What are my greatly undeserved blessings? What am I sharing with others? Am I spreading God’s love to others? How can I concretely share God to others?

May we be inspired by John and spread God’s love to others.

Father God,

Thank you for today. Thank you for another day to live. Thank you for all the blessings, both evident and in disguise, that you continue to give to me. Lord, sorry for the times I do not recognize them. And sorry for not acting like John, sorry for not sharing you to others. Sorry for being too lazy to move and act.  Disturb me. Make me like John. Lord, may I always feel your love and blessings, and as I do, help me spread your love to others. Help me share you to others. Use me to make your love more alive and more real in this world. May my life remind people how great and loving you are. May you be glorified through my life. Amen.

Blessed day!

In Christ,

-g-

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December 27, 2016
Feast of Saint John, Apostle and evangelist
Lectionary: 697

Reading 1 1 Jn 1:1-4

Beloved:
What was from the beginning,
what we have heard,
what we have seen with our eyes,
what we looked upon
and touched with our hands
concerns the Word of life—
for the life was made visible;
we have seen it and testify to it
and proclaim to you the eternal life
that was with the Father and was made visible to us—
what we have seen and heard
we proclaim now to you,
so that you too may have fellowship with us;
for our fellowship is with the Father
and with his Son, Jesus Christ.
We are writing this so that our joy may be complete.

Responsorial Psalm Ps 97:1-2, 5-6, 11-12

R. (12) Rejoice in the Lord, you just!
The LORD is king; let the earth rejoice;
let the many isles be glad.
Clouds and darkness are around him,
justice and judgment are the foundation of his throne.
R. Rejoice in the Lord, you just!
The mountains melt like wax before the LORD,
before the LORD of all the earth.
The heavens proclaim his justice,
and all peoples see his glory.
R. Rejoice in the Lord, you just!
Light dawns for the just;
and gladness, for the upright of heart.
Be glad in the LORD, you just,
and give thanks to his holy name.
R. Rejoice in the Lord, you just!

Alleluia - See Te Deum

R. Alleluia, alleluia.
We praise you, O God,
we acclaim you as Lord;
the glorious company of Apostles praise you.
R. Alleluia, alleluia.

Gospel Jn 20:1a and 2-8

On the first day of the week,
Mary Magdalene ran and went to Simon Peter
and to the other disciple whom Jesus loved, and told them,
“They have taken the Lord from the tomb,
and we do not know where they put him.”
So Peter and the other disciple went out and came to the tomb.
They both ran, but the other disciple ran faster than Peter
and arrived at the tomb first;
he bent down and saw the burial cloths there, but did not go in.
When Simon Peter arrived after him,
he went into the tomb and saw the burial cloths there,
and the cloth that had covered his head,
not with the burial cloths but rolled up in a separate place.
Then the other disciple also went in,
the one who had arrived at the tomb first,

and he saw and believed.

Back To Reality

The WORD today (see http://usccb.org/bible/readings/122616.cfm) reminds me that after the holiday, I should be ready to go back to reality and proclaim God. 

Christmas day is over. After months of preparation and anticipation, it is over. To add to it, Chrismas is on a Sunday, so today, the next day after Christmas, is a working day! Back to reality indeed. Holiday's over! Even though the holiday season is not over, and there are still a lot of decors and get togethers, Christmas day itself is over, just like that. However, the spirit of Christmas should not go away after December 25.

We should live Christmas everyday. 

It is by no accident that the day after Christmas, we commemorate the feast day of St Stephen, the first martyr. Like what Jesus told Peter, James and John in the mountain during transfiguration, he too is telling us to go down the mountain, back to reality, back to our daily lives, and continue to live the spirit of Christmas, the spirit of love – and continue to proclaim God.

God loves us so much, and as we feel that love, we should be moved to love him back.

Stephen died for his faith. He was not forced to. He probably could have run away from the people, but he chose not to. He chose to stand up for his faith. He chose to proclaim God to others, even if it cost him his life. In the same way, we are called to be like Stephen. We do not need to be martyrs to show God we love him, that we appreciate his coming to save us, and that we are grateful. We should, little by little, everyday, make a decision to proclaim him - to honor him and live for him.

May we be challenged and inspired to live our faith, to go back to reality and stand up for our faith, and proclaim the love and greatness of God.

Father God,

Thank you for today. Thank you for another day to live. Thank you for the weekend. Thank you for another week. Thank you for bringing me back to reality. Thank you for all the gifts which you, the Celebrant, continue to give me. Lord I pray that I have faith like Stephen. May I focus on you and your glory, instead of focusing on and complaining about my pains and difficulties. Help me stand up for and proclaim you everyday. Help me live for you and die of myself, so that you may live in me, and through me. May I make you more real and more alive through my life. Amen.

Blessed week!

In Christ,

-g-

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December 26, 2016
Feast of Saint Stephen, first martyr
Lectionary: 696

Reading 1 Acts 6:8-10; 7:54-59

Stephen, filled with grace and power,
was working great wonders and signs among the people.
Certain members of the so-called Synagogue of Freedmen,
Cyrenians, and Alexandrians,
and people from Cilicia and Asia,
came forward and debated with Stephen,
but they could not withstand the wisdom and the spirit with which he spoke.

When they heard this, they were infuriated,
and they ground their teeth at him.
But he, filled with the Holy Spirit,
looked up intently to heaven
and saw the glory of God and Jesus standing at the right hand of God,
and he said,
“Behold, I see the heavens opened and the Son of Man
standing at the right hand of God.”
But they cried out in a loud voice, covered their ears,
and rushed upon him together.
They threw him out of the city, and began to stone him.
The witnesses laid down their cloaks
at the feet of a young man named Saul.
As they were stoning Stephen, he called out
“Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.”

Responsorial Psalm Ps 31:3cd-4, 6 and 8ab, 16bc and 17

R. (6) Into your hands, O Lord, I commend my spirit.
Be my rock of refuge,
a stronghold to give me safety.
You are my rock and my fortress;
for your name’s sake you will lead and guide me.
R. Into your hands, O Lord, I commend my spirit.
Into your hands I commend my spirit;
you will redeem me, O LORD, O faithful God.
I will rejoice and be glad because of your mercy.
R. Into your hands, O Lord, I commend my spirit.
Rescue me from the clutches of my enemies and my persecutors.
Let your face shine upon your servant;
save me in your kindness.
R. Into your hands, O Lord, I commend my spirit.

Alleluia Ps 118:26a, 27a

R. Alleluia, alleluia.
Blessed is he who comes in the name of the LORD:
the LORD is God and has given us light.
R. Alleluia, alleluia.

Gospel Mt 10:17-22

Jesus said to his disciples:
“Beware of men, for they will hand you over to courts
and scourge you in their synagogues,
and you will be led before governors and kings for my sake
as a witness before them and the pagans.
When they hand you over,
do not worry about how you are to speak
or what you are to say.
You will be given at that moment what you are to say.
For it will not be you who speak
but the Spirit of your Father speaking through you.
Brother will hand over brother to death,
and the father his child;
children will rise up against parents and have them put to death.
You will be hated by all because of my name,
but whoever endures to the end will be saved.”

CHRISTmas 2016!

The WORD today (see http://usccb.org/bible/readings/122516-midnight.cfm) reminds me how beautiful and meaningful Christmas is!

They say that Christmas is the longest season here in the Philippines. As early as September, or when the –BER months enter, there are already Christmas decors on display, and some establishments already play Christmas songs - especially malls. And after weeks of preparing and waiting for Jesus, we now commemorate his coming. In the first reading, Isaiah says: For a child is born to us, a son is given us(Isaiah 9:6). Eto na yun. God’s immense love for us made concrete by his sending of his one and only Son to save us from our sins. He even allowed his Son to be born in a manger, with the animals, because he loves us.

There are a lot of Christmas songs. New and the old classics. One of the classics is O Holy Night. I haven’t given much attention to this song before. For me, it was just one of those normal Christmas songs that have been there for ages. However, taking a closer look at the lyrics, this actually encapsulates Christmas:

O Holy Night! The stars are brightly shining,
It is the night of the dear Saviour's birth.
Long lay the world in sin and error pining.

‘Till He appeared and the soul felt its worth.

Deep. 

Until he appeared and the soul felt its worth. Until Jesus appeared. Before he entered the world, we were living in sin. We were living far away from God. No sense. No purpose. Jesus brought us salvation. Jesus brought us peace. Jesus bridged our way to God. He stood in the gap from us, sinners, to God the Father Almighty. He made us children of God. 

We all have different feeling towards this day. Others may have been blessed by attending the “Misa De Gallo” or “Simbang Gabi” every 4AM for 9 consecutive days. Others may have been blessed by helping out others, because it gave them an opportunity to serve, help out, and be Christ to others. Others may have been blessed by reading His word, praying, reflecting and taking the sacraments. Those are all great feelings. But how about others? What about those who were so stressed preparing gifts, cooking food, arranging get-togethers, that they did not realize it’s already Christmas? How about those who got so engrossed with the year-end responsibilities at work and requirements for a January deadline that they forgot about Christmas? How about those who did their best, prepared spiritually for this, yet do not seem to feel an effect on their lives?

Good news! It’s never too late! Preparing does not end at Christmas Day. More important than preparing for Christmas, it should continue even after Christmas.

Jesus was born in a stable, probably a dirty one, together with animals. This shows external appearance is not so important to him. What’s important is the owners welcomed them. Are we welcoming him as well? IF you haven’t been preparing, ok lang, never too late. If kulang pa yung preparation, ok lang, never too late. If parang walang epekto, ok lang, never too late, dasal pa. Let us hang on to his promise in Jeremiah:  If you seek me you’ll find me, if you seek me with all of your heart (Jeremiah 29:13).

What is important to God is we welcome him, we allow Him to stay in us, no matter how unprepared, no matter how dirty, no matter how unworthy our heart is for Him. IF we allow him to stay, if we welcome him, if we allow him to do whatever he wants, he will use us mightily, and we would glorify God by it, and the more we continue doing these, the more our soul will feel its worth.

May we continue to prepare spiritually for Christ, and may the spirit of Christmas – which is God’s love made alive and concrete, continue to remain in us and be alive through us.

Father God,

Thank you for this day. Thank you for another day to live. Thank you for Christmas. Thank you for coming into this world as a little child born in a stable in a little town of Bethlehem. Father, thank you for not being intimidating. Thank you for humbling yourself so we could relate to you. Thank you for your great love for us. Lord, sorry for not doing my best to prepare for Christmas. Sorry for being busy and distracted. Lord, my heart is not so clean. Madumi sya, madami pa kailangang ayusin at linisin. I feel I have not prepared as much, that I am unworthy. But Lord, however unworthy I am, I ask, I beg you to come into my life, into my heart. Make the most out of it. Fill it with your love, that I may always realize how special I am to you. I ask that you grant me the grace to see myself the way you see me – beautiful, worthy of your love, capable of doing good. I ask that you continuously use me to do your work, and this CHRISTmas and always, may I always remember who this is for, who should come first, who my attention and focus should be. Amidst all the technological advancements and worldly distractions, may I never lose my focus on you, on the real essence of Christmas. Help me and use me to make you more alive and more real to others. Amen.

Let’s not forget the REASON for the SEASON and keep CHRIST in CHRISTmas!

Have a Merry and Blessed Christmas!

In Christ,

-g-

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December 25, 2016 - The Nativity of the Lord (Christmas) - Mass during the Night
The Nativity of the Lord (Christmas)
Mass during the Night
Lectionary: 14

Reading 1 Is 9:1-6

The people who walked in darkness
have seen a great light;
upon those who dwelt in the land of gloom
a light has shone.
You have brought them abundant joy
and great rejoicing,
as they rejoice before you as at the harvest,
as people make merry when dividing spoils.
For the yoke that burdened them,
the pole on their shoulder,
and the rod of their taskmaster
you have smashed, as on the day of Midian.
For every boot that tramped in battle,
every cloak rolled in blood,
will be burned as fuel for flames.
For a child is born to us, a son is given us;
upon his shoulder dominion rests.
They name him Wonder-Counselor, God-Hero,
Father-Forever, Prince of Peace.
His dominion is vast
and forever peaceful,
from David’s throne, and over his kingdom,
which he confirms and sustains
by judgment and justice,
both now and forever.
The zeal of the LORD of hosts will do this!

Responsorial Psalm Ps 96: 1-2, 2-3, 11-12, 13

R. (Lk 2:11) Today is born our Savior, Christ the Lord.
Sing to the LORD a new song;
sing to the LORD, all you lands.
Sing to the LORD; bless his name.
R. Today is born our Savior, Christ the Lord.
Announce his salvation, day after day.
Tell his glory among the nations;
among all peoples, his wondrous deeds.
R. Today is born our Savior, Christ the Lord.
Let the heavens be glad and the earth rejoice;
let the sea and what fills it resound;
let the plains be joyful and all that is in them!
Then shall all the trees of the forest exult.
R. Today is born our Savior, Christ the Lord.
They shall exult before the LORD, for he comes;
for he comes to rule the earth.
He shall rule the world with justice
and the peoples with his constancy.
R. Today is born our Savior, Christ the Lord.

Reading 2 Ti 2:11-14

Beloved:
The grace of God has appeared, saving all
and training us to reject godless ways and worldly desires
and to live temperately, justly, and devoutly in this age,
as we await the blessed hope,
the appearance of the glory of our great God
and savior Jesus Christ,
who gave himself for us to deliver us from all lawlessness
and to cleanse for himself a people as his own,
eager to do what is good.

Alleluia Lk 2:10-11

R. Alleluia, alleluia.
I proclaim to you good news of great joy:
today a Savior is born for us,
Christ the Lord.
R. Alleluia, alleluia.

Gospel Lk 2:1-14

In those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus
that the whole world should be enrolled.
This was the first enrollment,
when Quirinius was governor of Syria.
So all went to be enrolled, each to his own town.
And Joseph too went up from Galilee from the town of Nazareth
to Judea, to the city of David that is called Bethlehem,
because he was of the house and family of David,
to be enrolled with Mary, his betrothed, who was with child.
While they were there,
the time came for her to have her child,
and she gave birth to her firstborn son.
She wrapped him in swaddling clothes and laid him in a manger,
because there was no room for them in the inn.

Now there were shepherds in that region living in the fields
and keeping the night watch over their flock.
The angel of the Lord appeared to them
and the glory of the Lord shone around them,
and they were struck with great fear.
The angel said to them,
“Do not be afraid;
for behold, I proclaim to you good news of great joy
that will be for all the people.
For today in the city of David
a savior has been born for you who is Christ and Lord.
And this will be a sign for you:
you will find an infant wrapped in swaddling clothes
and lying in a manger.”
And suddenly there was a multitude of the heavenly host with the angel,
praising God and saying:
“Glory to God in the highest
and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.”

Continue to Prepare

The WORD today (see http://usccb.org/bible/readings/122416.cfm) reminds me that I should continue my preparation for Christ's coming. 

They say that time flies when you're having fun. That is usually true. But time also flies when you are very busy. Time flies when there are a lot of things to do. Time flies when there are a lot of parties and activities. This is what happened to some. Just like that, it's already Christmas day tomorrow. Weeks of preparation seemed to just fly by. 

However, this should not dishearten us. Regardless if we feel we have done our best or not, we should not stop preparing for him. We should not stop today or tomorrow, but be motivated to continue and prepare for his eventual coming. Being a Christian is not a once in a lifetime decision. It is an everyday, continuous decision. We have to constantly choose to follow God. We have to constantly allow God to change us, and to use us.

The readings show us people who continuously allow God to use them. In the first reading, we see David, a former shepherd who was used by God in many ways, and eventually was made a king of his people. In the gospel we see Zechariah’s canticle, his profession of faith and love. After doubting God and being silenced, he eventually gave praises to God with his words, with his life. They both live the psalm – to forever sing the goodness of the Lord.

We should also continue to let God use us and change us. We should continue to allow him to use us to help other people. There are everyday things we should do to improve ourselves - obey the rules and be honest even if other people are not, be generous and selfless even if other people are not, confess and be at peace with God, ourselves and others, even if other people do not. As we do so, God will continue to live through us, and we will be a representation of Jesus to others around us, and He will continue to be present in us and through us.

How have I prepared for Christmas this year? Did I lose sight of the reason for this season? Did I allow myself to get busy and stressed that I did not devote enough time for prayer and sacraments as I prepare for Him? How can I continue to prepare for Jesus’ coming in my life? How can I continue to allow Him to change me? Am I willing?

Father God,

Thank you for today. Thank you for another day to live. Thank you for this reminder. Thank you for all the blessings. Thank you for all the love. Thank you for all the guidance and protection. Lord, sorry for being so busy and distracted. Sorry for losing sight of you. Lord, I pray that you give me a heart that would continue to let you use me and mold me to be more like you. Give me a heart that would continue to humble myself before you and allow you to use me in whatever way you want to. Lord, use me. Live in me. Be alive in me and through me. Help me also to never stop preparing, even after Christmas. I pray that in my own little way, you would be able to use me and make me Jesus to others. Amen

Blessed day!

In Christ,

-g-

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December 24, 2016
Saturday of the Fourth Week in Advent - Mass in the Morning
Lectionary: 200

Reading 1 2 Sm 7:1-5, 8b-12, 14a, 16

When King David was settled in his palace,
and the LORD had given him rest from his enemies on every side,
he said to Nathan the prophet,
“Here I am living in a house of cedar,
while the ark of God dwells in a tent!”
Nathan answered the king,
“Go, do whatever you have in mind,
for the LORD is with you.”
But that night the LORD spoke to Nathan and said:
“Go, tell my servant David, ‘Thus says the LORD:
Should you build me a house to dwell in?

“‘It was I who took you from the pasture
and from the care of the flock
to be commander of my people Israel.
I have been with you wherever you went,
and I have destroyed all your enemies before you.
And I will make you famous like the great ones of the earth.
I will fix a place for my people Israel;
I will plant them so that they may dwell in their place
without further disturbance.
Neither shall the wicked continue to afflict them as they did of old,
since the time I first appointed judges over my people Israel.
I will give you rest from all your enemies.
The LORD also reveals to you
that he will establish a house for you.
And when your time comes and you rest with your ancestors,
I will raise up your heir after you, sprung from your loins,
and I will make his Kingdom firm.
I will be a father to him,
and he shall be a son to me.
Your house and your Kingdom shall endure forever before me;
your throne shall stand firm forever.’”

Responsorial Psalm Ps 89:2-3, 4-5, 27 and 29

R. (2) For ever I will sing the goodness of the Lord.
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.
“I have made a covenant with my chosen one,
I have sworn to David my servant:
Forever will I confirm your posterity
and establish your throne for all generations.”
R. For ever I will sing the goodness of the Lord.
“He shall say of me, ‘You are my father,
my God, the rock, my savior.’
Forever I will maintain my kindness toward him,
and my covenant with him stands firm.”
R. For ever I will sing the goodness of the Lord.

Alleluia

R. Alleluia, alleluia.
O Radiant Dawn,
splendor of eternal light, sun of justice:
come and shine on those who dwell in darkness and in the shadow of death.
R. Alleluia, alleluia.

Gospel Lk 1:67-79

Zechariah his father, filled with the Holy Spirit, prophesied, saying:

“Blessed be the Lord, the God of Israel;
for he has come to his people and set them free.
He has raised up for us a mighty Savior,
born of the house of his servant David.
Through his prophets he promised of old
that he would save us from our enemies,
from the hands of all who hate us.
He promised to show mercy to our fathers
and to remember his holy covenant.
This was the oath he swore to our father Abraham:
to set us free from the hand of our enemies,
free to worship him without fear,
holy and righteous in his sight
all the days of our life.
You, my child, shall be called the prophet of the Most High,
for you will go before the Lord to prepare his way,
to give his people knowledge of salvation
by the forgiveness of their sins.
In the tender compassion of our God
the dawn from on high shall break upon us,
to shine on those who dwell in darkness and the shadow of death,
and to guide our feet into the way of peace.”