Give Generously

The WORD today (see http://usccb.org/bible/readings/022817.cfm) reminds me that I should give generously for God. 

There is a saying that it is better to give than to receive. Some people believe in this. Although of course it is nice to receive gifts and other things from people, it is better to give. It is better to be on the giving end, because it usually means that you have enough so you can afford to give. It also means that you are not too attached to things and that you are willing to help others out. This is what God wants from us. 

God wants us to not just give, but generously give to and for Him. 

In the first reading, we see how much God appreciates us giving back to him and sharing our blessings with others. God has given us so much. We have more than enough. So he appreciates if we can share these blessings with others. He even says that God will repay us sevenfold of what we offer him. In the gospel, we also see Jesus validating that people who gave up things and relationships for him will receive greater blessings than what they gave up. 

God is a generous God. He cannot be outgiven. 

Probably this is also one of the reasons why it is better to give than to receive. If you give to and for God, if you wholeheartedly offer to God, he will surely repay. He will surely give you back more than what you gave up...not for you to be rich, not for you to use as an investment for giving, but so you can continue to give to others. So you can continue to give back more. 

May we always be thankful for God's blessings, and be generous enough to give back and share these with others. 

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 hold on to your blessings. Sorry for the times I am not willing to share my blessings to others. Sorry for the times I do not offer and give back to you. Give me a humble and grateful heart. Give me a generous heart. May I always he willing to generously share your blessings to others so I can spread your love here on earth. Amen. 

Blessed day!

In Christ,

-g-

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February 28, 2017
Tuesday of the Eighth Week in Ordinary Time
Lectionary: 348

Reading 1 Sir 35:1-12

To keep the law is a great oblation,
and he who observes the
commandments sacrifices a peace offering.
In works of charity one offers fine flour,
and when he gives alms he presents his sacrifice of praise.
To refrain from evil pleases the LORD,
and to avoid injustice is an atonement.
Appear not before the LORD empty-handed,
for all that you offer is in fulfillment of the precepts.
The just one's offering enriches the altar
and rises as a sweet odor before the Most High.
The just one's sacrifice is most pleasing,
nor will it ever be forgotten.
In a generous spirit pay homage to the LORD,
be not sparing of freewill gifts.
With each contribution show a cheerful countenance,
and pay your tithes in a spirit of joy.
Give to the Most High as he has given to you,
generously, according to your means.

For the LORD is one who always repays,
and he will give back to you sevenfold.
But offer no bribes, these he does not accept!
Trust not in sacrifice of the fruits of extortion.
For he is a God of justice,
who knows no favorites.

Responsorial Psalm Ps 50:5-6, 7-8, 14 and 23

R. (23b) To the upright I will show the saving power of God.
"Gather my faithful ones before me,
those who have made a covenant with me by sacrifice."
And the heavens proclaim his justice;
for God himself is the judge.
R. To the upright I will show the saving power of God.
"Hear, my people, and I will speak;
Israel, I will testify against you;
God, your God, am I.
Not for your sacrifices do I rebuke you,
for your burnt offerings are before me always."
R. To the upright I will show the saving power of God.
"Offer to God praise as your sacrifice
and fulfill your vows to the Most High.
He that offers praise as a sacrifice glorifies me;
and to him that goes the right way I will show the salvation of God."
R. To the upright I will show the saving power of God.

Alleluia see mt 11:25

R. Alleluia, alleluia.
Blessed are you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth;
you have revealed to little ones the mysteries of the Kingdom.
R. Alleluia, alleluia.

Gospel Mk 10:28-31

Peter began to say to Jesus,
'We have given up everything and followed you."
Jesus said, "Amen, I say to you,
there is no one who has given up house or brothers or sisters
or mother or father or children or lands
for my sake and for the sake of the Gospel
who will not receive a hundred times more now in this present age:
houses and brothers and sisters
and mothers and children and lands,
with persecutions, and eternal life in the age to come.
But many that are first will be last, and the last will be first."

What Must I Do?

The WORD today (see http://usccb.org/bible/readings/022717.cfm) reminds me that I should be detached from everything in this world so I can follow him wholeheartedly. 

The gospel today shows us a man asking Jesus.. “Good teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life…” Well, he certainly knew who Jesus was and was humble enough to ask Jesus what he needs to do. Jesus tells him the basics – follow the commandments. The man, like pretty much like all of us, says he is trying to do these things. Then Jesus says something harder for him.: “Go, sell what you have, and give to the poor and you will have treasure in heaven; then come, follow me."

God knows when we can still give more. God pushes us to the limit so we can improve and be more like Him. 

We can see by his answer that the man was looking for something. The man knows he must do something else. When Jesus said he must follow the commandments, which he already does, he knew he must do something else. Alam nya, kasi hindi nya sinabing “yey, ok na ako, thanks!.” Jesus also saw what the man needed to do. Jesus looked at him and loved him, and told him what he needs to do. Yes, Jesus loved the man, even if Jesus knew the man was not yet ready to give up everything for Him.

Good news – if we can say that we have been doing (or at least have been trying to do) the commandments that Jesus told the man, we are on the right path. We are halfway there!

Bad news – is it not enough. There is still something lacking. Jesus wants us to be detached from material things.

Jesus is not telling us getting rich is bad. Jesus is not telling us material wealth is bad. Of course it is nice to be rich – especially if you would share your blessings to those who need it. What’s bad is the attachment to material things – money, power, fame, etc. It becomes dangerous if accumulating such becomes the goal in life – when these things become the gods ruling our lives, and we lose sight of eternity with God. When we give too much importance to material things, then we lose the focus on God. 

Only when we are detached from material things can we truly focus on God and can wholly follow Him.

What am I clinging on right now? Do I want to follow God and have eternal life? What is preventing me from fully following God? Material things? A bad habit? An unhealthy relationship? Do I feel that I cannot let go of these things? Do I believe in God when he says he loves me, like he loved the man in the gospel? Do I pray to God to give me the desire to let go, and ask him to help me all the way?

May we pray that God help us and grant us the desire to follow him and let go of anything that is preventing us from fully following Him.

Father God,
Thank you for today. Thank you for another day to live. thank you for another week. Thank you for the gospel that reminds me that you love me and you want me to be saved. Sorry for the times I cannot detach myself from this world. Sorry for giving importance to things of this world. Lord, I ask that you help me have the desire in my heart – to follow you and to rid myself of anything that is hindering me from fully following you. Help me learn how to let go of the enjoyable and fun things in life if they hinder me from fully following you. I pray for faith – in you, your love, and your power in my life. May I live aware of what I should do to glorify you. This I ask in Jesus name, Amen.

Blessed week!

In Christ,

-g-

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February 27, 2017
Monday of the Eighth Week in Ordinary Time
Lectionary: 347

Reading 1 Sir 17:20-24

To the penitent God provides a way back,
he encourages those who are losing hope
and has chosen for them the lot of truth.
Return to him and give up sin,
pray to the LORD and make your offenses few.
Turn again to the Most High and away from your sin,
hate intensely what he loathes,
and know the justice and judgments of God,
Stand firm in the way set before you,
in prayer to the Most High God.

Who in the nether world can glorify the Most High
in place of the living who offer their praise?
Dwell no longer in the error of the ungodly,
but offer your praise before death.
No more can the dead give praise
than those who have never lived;
You who are alive and well
shall praise and glorify God in his mercies.
How great the mercy of the LORD,
his forgiveness of those who return to him!

Responsorial Psalm Ps 32:1-2, 5, 6, 7

R. (11a) Let the just exult and rejoice in the Lord.
Blessed is he whose fault is taken away,
whose sin is covered.
Blessed the man to whom the LORD imputes not guilt,
in whose spirit there is no guile.
R. Let the just exult and rejoice in the Lord.
Then I acknowledged my sin to you,
my guilt I covered not.
I said, "I confess my faults to the LORD,"
and you took away the guilt of my sin.
R. Let the just exult and rejoice in the Lord.
For this shall every faithful man pray to you
in time of stress.
Though deep waters overflow,
they shall not reach him.
R. Let the just exult and rejoice in the Lord.
You are my shelter; from distress you will preserve me;
with glad cries of freedom you will ring me round.
R. Let the just exult and rejoice in the Lord.

Alleluia 2 Cor 8:9

R. Alleluia, alleluia.
Jesus Christ became poor although he was rich,
so that by his poverty you might become rich.
R. Alleluia, alleluia.

Gospel Mk 10:17-27

As Jesus was setting out on a journey, a man ran up,
knelt down before him, and asked him,
"Good teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?"
Jesus answered him, "Why do you call me good?
No one is good but God alone.
You know the commandments: You shall not kill;
you shall not commit adultery;
you shall not steal;
you shall not bear false witness;
you shall not defraud;
honor your father and your mother."
He replied and said to him,
"Teacher, all of these I have observed from my youth."
Jesus, looking at him, loved him and said to him,
"You are lacking in one thing.
Go, sell what you have, and give to the poor
and you will have treasure in heaven; then come, follow me."
At that statement, his face fell,
and he went away sad, for he had many possessions.

Jesus looked around and said to his disciples,
"How hard it is for those who have wealth
to enter the Kingdom of God!"
The disciples were amazed at his words.
So Jesus again said to them in reply,
"Children, how hard it is to enter the Kingdom of God!
It is easier for a camel to pass through the eye of a needle
than for one who is rich to enter the Kingdom of God."
They were exceedingly astonished and said among themselves,
"Then who can be saved?"
Jesus looked at them and said,
"For men it is impossible, but not for God.
All things are possible for God."

Hakuna Matata

The WORD today (see http://usccb.org/bible/readings/022617.cfm) reminds me to not worry and just have faith in God. 

I like the movie The Lion King. It is a feel good movie for me. It reminds me of my childhood. Of course, one of the more popular songs in the movie is Hakuna Matata. It is a Swahili phrase which means "no worries". In the song, it says that Hakuna Matata Means no worries for the rest of your days. Though in life we would have problems, we should take in this attitude and not worry, because God is always there taking care of us. 

The gospel tells us one of the most assuring promises for me. These two verses never fail to calm me and assure me of God's love, plan, and protection. 

But seek first the Kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be given you besides. Do not worry about tomorrow; tomorrow will take care of itself. Sufficient for a day is its own evil

Do not worry. 

In life, there are lots of reasons to worry. And lots of things to worry about. Work. Career. Health. Finances. Safety. Lovelife. These are only the basics. Some people further expand this by adding more things: fame. Power. Reputation. Possessions. If one focuses on these things, then the quality of life would really be affected. But today we see how we should deal with these things. 

Faith in God. 

They say that if you worry a lot, it means you don’t have faith in God. Makes sense. Because we can't do anything by worrying. Jesus asks us not to worry about tomorrow and all the concerns it brings. We should just have faith in God. We should just focus on God. We should just seek God. 

Would seeking God and following God solve our concerns? Will it take our problems away? Yes - but probably not in a way we want to. As we seek Him, He won't give us worldly solutions - food, money, security, etc. However, he will change our hearts to become more and more like him. And as we become more and more like him, we will see things in a different perspective. We will rely on him more. And the things we consider problems won't be so big anymore. As we seek Him, we will find him and the peace he brings amidst the distractions in this world. 

May we learn not to worry but to trust in God all the time. 

Father God,

Thank you for today. Thank you for another day to live. Thank you for another weekend. Thank you for the beautiful reminder. Lord, I am sorry for always worrying. Sorry for panicking. Sorry for thinking what else could go wrong. Sorry for focusing on the problems and on the worst case scenario. Sorry for not having enough faith in you. Lord, I pray that you help me live the way you want me to. Help me live with great trust and faith in you. You always provide. You always take care of me. You always come to my rescue. Help me remember these things. May I worry less as I pray more. Change me and make me more like you, Lord. Amen.

Blessed Sunday!

In Christ,

-g-

Ps

See related reflections:

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

http://mysimplereflection.blogspot.com/2012/06/dont-worry-have-faith.html

http://mysimplereflection.blogspot.com/2013/05/dont-you-worry-child.html

http://mysimplereflection.blogspot.com/2015/06/seek-him-first.html

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February 26, 2017
Eighth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Lectionary: 82

Reading 1 Is 49:14-15

Zion said, "The LORD has forsaken me;
my LORD has forgotten me."
Can a mother forget her infant,
be without tenderness for the child of her womb?
Even should she forget,
I will never forget you.

Responsorial Psalm Ps 62:2-3, 6-7, 8-9

R. (6a) Rest in God alone, my soul.
Only in God is my soul at rest;
from him comes my salvation.
He only is my rock and my salvation,
my stronghold; I shall not be disturbed at all.
R. Rest in God alone, my soul.
Only in God be at rest, my soul,
for from him comes my hope.
He only is my rock and my salvation,
my stronghold; I shall not be disturbed.
R. Rest in God alone, my soul.
With God is my safety and my glory,
he is the rock of my strength; my refuge is in God.
Trust in him at all times, O my people!
Pour out your hearts before him.
R. Rest in God alone, my soul.

Reading 2 1 Cor 4:1-5

Brothers and sisters:
Thus should one regard us: as servants of Christ
and stewards of the mysteries of God.
Now it is of course required of stewards
that they be found trustworthy.
It does not concern me in the least
that I be judged by you or any human tribunal;
I do not even pass judgment on myself;
I am not conscious of anything against me,
but I do not thereby stand acquitted;
the one who judges me is the Lord.
Therefore do not make any judgment before the appointed time,
until the Lord comes,
for he will bring to light what is hidden in darkness
and will manifest the motives of our hearts,
and then everyone will receive praise from God.

Alleluia Hb 4:12

R. Alleluia, alleluia.
The word of God is living and effective;
discerning reflections and thoughts of the heart.
R. Alleluia, alleluia.

Gospel Mt 6:24-34

Jesus said to his disciples:
"No one can serve two masters.
He will either hate one and love the other,
or be devoted to one and despise the other.
You cannot serve God and mammon.

"Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life,
what you will eat or drink,
or about your body, what you will wear.
Is not life more than food and the body more than clothing?
Look at the birds in the sky;
they do not sow or reap, they gather nothing into barns,
yet your heavenly Father feeds them.
Are not you more important than they?
Can any of you by worrying add a single moment to your life-span?
Why are you anxious about clothes?
Learn from the way the wild flowers grow.
They do not work or spin.
But I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor
was clothed like one of them.
If God so clothes the grass of the field,
which grows today and is thrown into the oven tomorrow,
will he not much more provide for you, O you of little faith?
So do not worry and say, 'What are we to eat?'
or 'What are we to drink?'or 'What are we to wear?'
All these things the pagans seek.
Your heavenly Father knows that you need them all.
But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness,
and all these things will be given you besides.
Do not worry about tomorrow; tomorrow will take care of itself.

Sufficient for a day is its own evil."

Kingdom is Theirs

The WORD today (see http://usccb.org/bible/readings/022517.cfm) reminds me how I can enter God's kingdom. 

What makes children so special? Nowadays, we probably will say that children are special because they remind us how simple life is, or how beautiful life is, or that they can take our stress away. However, during the time of Jesus, children were the least in society, together with women. That is why in one of the accounts of the feeding of multitude, only the men were counted – women and children were excluded from the count (Mt 14:13-21 http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Mat%2014:13-21;&version=NASB)

However, God's ways are not our ways. His standards are not our standards. 

In the gospel, the disciples prevented children from touching Jesus. Probably for them, children were not important. They probably think that only important people should come to Jesus. But Jesus surprised them by saying that God's kingdom belong to the children. Not only that, he also said that people should imitate a child. Wow. 

Why?

Probably because of the reason why the children were the least in society. They were least because as they cannot contribute anything to their family and to society, they were totally dependent on their parents to survive. They have their full trust in their parents. Jesus wants this attitude – to be totally dependent on God to survive, to know that we cannot do anything or contribute anything significant if not blessed by God. Only when we have this attitude can we receive God's kingdom. Only when we know who we are versus who he is can we begin to appreciate him, his blessings, his goodness. Only can we give importance to his kingdom - the importance he deserves. 

May we realize that God’s standard of greatness is not like ours, and be humble and surrender our lives to Him like children to their parents… then we can expect to be welcomed in God’s kingdom as well.

Father God,

Thank you for today. Thank you for another day to live. thank you for another weekend. Thank you for the reminder. Lord, sorry for the times I do not act like a child. Sorry for being proud snd dependent on myself and my achievements. Sorry for losing my focus. Give me the heart of a child. I surrender to you my plans, and I allow you to bring me where I would be able to glorify you the most. Lord, May I always remember that your standards of greatness are different from the world, and may I always remember to humble myself and submit to you, totally depending on you as I live my life, pretty much how I was when I was a child. Use me to glorify your name. Help me for eternity with you as I live on earth. Amen.

Blessed weekend!

In Christ,

-g-

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February 25, 2017
Saturday of the Seventh Week in Ordinary Time
Lectionary: 346

Reading 1 Sir 17:1-15

God from the earth created man,
and in his own image he made him.
He makes man return to earth again,
and endows him with a strength of his own.
Limited days of life he gives him,
with power over all things else on earth.
He puts the fear of him in all flesh,
and gives him rule over beasts and birds.
He created for them counsel, and a tongue and eyes and ears,
and an inventive heart,
and filled them with the discipline of understanding.
He created in them knowledge of the spirit;
With wisdom he fills their heart;
good and evil he shows them.
He put the fear of himself upon their hearts,
and showed them his mighty works,
That they might glory in the wonder of his deeds
and praise his holy name.
He has set before them knowledge,
a law of life as their inheritance;
An everlasting covenant he has made with them,
his justice and his judgments he has revealed to them.
His majestic glory their eyes beheld,
his glorious voice their ears heard.
He says to them, "Avoid all evil";
each of them he gives precepts about his fellow men.
Their ways are ever known to him,
they cannot be hidden from his eyes.
Over every nation he places a ruler,
but God's own portion is Israel.
All their actions are clear as the sun to him,
his eyes are ever upon their ways.

Responsorial Psalm Ps 103:13-14, 15-16, 17-18

R. (see 17) The Lord's kindness is everlasting to those who fear him.
As a father has compassion on his children,
so the LORD has compassion on those who fear him,
For he knows how we are formed;
he remembers that we are dust.
R. The Lord's kindness is everlasting to those who fear him.
Man's days are like those of grass;
like a flower of the field he blooms;
The wind sweeps over him and he is gone,
and his place knows him no more.
R. The Lord's kindness is everlasting to those who fear him.
But the kindness of the LORD is from eternity
to eternity toward those who fear him,
And his justice toward children's children
among those who keep his covenant.
R. The Lord's kindness is everlasting to those who fear him.

Alleluia SEE Mt 11:25

R. Alleluia, alleluia.
Blessed are you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth;
you have revealed to little ones the mysteries of the Kingdom.
R. Alleluia, alleluia.

Gospel Mk 10:13-16

People were bringing children to Jesus that he might touch them,
but the disciples rebuked them.
When Jesus saw this he became indignant and said to them,
"Let the children come to me; do not prevent them,
for the Kingdom of God belongs to such as these.
Amen, I say to you,
whoever does not accept the Kingdom of God like a child
will not enter it."
Then he embraced the children and blessed them,
placing his hands on them.

True Friend

The WORD today (see http://usccb.org/bible/readings/022417.cfm) reminds me how much of a blessing a true friend is. 

It is easy to have many acquaintances. It is easy to know a lot of people by name, or on a superficial level. It is easy to be popular. However, what is hard, and more important, is having deep and quality relationships with friends. This takes time and effort to build, but is very worth it. 

Having one true friend is worth more than having a thousand acquaintances. 

In the first reading, we see how important it is to have a true friend. Important and helpful. It is easy to have "friends" but until you go through challenges and tough times will you be able to tell the real ones from fake, superficial ones. And when you find the real ones, keep them. 

True friends not only stick with you, they also bring you closer to God. They improve you. They genuinely care about you. This is also what we should be to others. We should be there not only to be with them, but also to bring them to God. We should be there not to tolerate them, but to improve them. 

May we make the effort to build quality relationships and friendships, and do our best to be a real friend to others. 

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 am not willing to spend time and effort in building quality relationships. Sorry for focusing on superficial friendships. Help me be a real friend, and I ask that you guide me in making real friends that would not only improve me and be with me, but would also bring me to you. And may I bring my friends to you as well. Amen. 

 Blessed day!

In Christ,

-g-

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February 24, 2017
Friday of the Seventh Week in Ordinary Time
Lectionary: 345

Reading 1 Sir 6:5-17

A kind mouth multiplies friends and appeases enemies,
and gracious lips prompt friendly greetings.
Let your acquaintances be many,
but one in a thousand your confidant.
When you gain a friend, first test him,
and be not too ready to trust him.
For one sort is a friend when it suits him,
but he will not be with you in time of distress.
Another is a friend who becomes an enemy,
and tells of the quarrel to your shame.
Another is a friend, a boon companion,
who will not be with you when sorrow comes.
When things go well, he is your other self,
and lords it over your servants;
But if you are brought low, he turns against you
and avoids meeting you.
Keep away from your enemies;
be on your guard with your friends.
A faithful friend is a sturdy shelter;
he who finds one finds a treasure.
A faithful friend is beyond price,
no sum can balance his worth.
A faithful friend is a life-saving remedy,
such as he who fears God finds;
For he who fears God behaves accordingly,
and his friend will be like himself.

Responsorial Psalm Ps 119:12, 16, 18, 27, 34, 35

R. (35a) Guide me, Lord, in the way of your commands.
Blessed are you, O LORD;
teach me your statutes.
R. Guide me, Lord, in the way of your commands.
In your statutes I will delight;
I will not forget your words.
R. Guide me, Lord, in the way of your commands.
Open my eyes, that I may consider
the wonders of your law.
R. Guide me, Lord, in the way of your commands.
Make me understand the way of your precepts,
and I will meditate on your wondrous deeds.
R. Guide me, Lord, in the way of your commands.
Give me discernment, that I may observe your law
and keep it with all my heart.
R. Guide me, Lord, in the way of your commands.
Lead me in the path of your commands,
for in it I delight.
R. Guide me, Lord, in the way of your commands.

Alleluia Jn 17:17b, 17a

R. Alleluia, alleluia.
Your word, O Lord, is truth;
consecrate us in the truth.
R. Alleluia, alleluia.

Gospel Mk 10:1-12

Jesus came into the district of Judea and across the Jordan.
Again crowds gathered around him and, as was his custom,
he again taught them.
The Pharisees approached him and asked,
"Is it lawful for a husband to divorce his wife?"
They were testing him.
He said to them in reply, "What did Moses command you?"
They replied,
"Moses permitted a husband to write a bill of divorce
and dismiss her."
But Jesus told them,
"Because of the hardness of your hearts
he wrote you this commandment.
But from the beginning of creation, God made them male and female.
For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother
and be joined to his wife,
and the two shall become one flesh.So they are no longer two but one flesh.
Therefore what God has joined together,
no human being must separate."
In the house the disciples again questioned Jesus about this.
He said to them,
"Whoever divorces his wife and marries another
commits adultery against her;
and if she divorces her husband and marries another,
she commits adultery."

Do Not Delay

The WORD today (see http://usccb.org/bible/readings/022317.cfm) reminds me that I should not delay doing good and living pleasing to God. 

We Filipinos have something we call the "Mañana Habit or Attitude". Mañana is the coined word for "mamaya na". We put off something if it is not yet urgent. We delay doing something until such time that we have no choice but to do it already. We cram, waiting until the very last minute until we do something. It may work with some, since they like to work under pressure. However, God does not want us to act like this as we do his work and as we live pleasing to him. 

You should not delay doing good and living right. 

We should not delay living right with God. We should not delay conversion and repentance. In the first reading, we are told how we should live. That we should not be overconfident with our earthly power, influence and achievements. We should not be overconfident with God's love and mercy. We should not delay conversion and living right, for we do not know until when we would have the chance to do so. The gospel tells us what we should do. That we should be willing to change and let go of sins of this world to enter God's kingdom. 

Sometimes we set a lot of conditions for doing these things. We wait for the last minute. We want to maximize things, so we wait until the very end until we do something - when we have no choice already. Some people treat conversion like this. They want to live a worldly life, thinking that they would just convert and live right when they retire or when they're old. However, we do not know when God will take us, so we should not delay. 

What things am I putting off doing? Why am I delaying these things? What am I waiting? Am I willing to act now? 

May we be moved into acting immediately on things that God wants us to do, and not put it off and wait for another time to do it. 

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 put off doing good and living right. Sorry for the times I wait for something before doing your work and end up not doing anything. Disturb me. Help me change and live for you. Help me live a life pleasing to you. Help me let go of the things you want me to. I know this would make me more and more like you, and would bring me closer to eternity with you. Amen. 

Blessed day!

In Christ,

-g-

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February 23, 2017
Memorial of Saint Polycarp, Bishop and Martyr
Lectionary: 344

Reading 1 Sir 5:1-8

Rely not on your wealth;
say not: "I have the power."
Rely not on your strength
in following the desires of your heart.
Say not: "Who can prevail against me?"
or, "Who will subdue me for my deeds?"
for God will surely exact the punishment.
Say not: "I have sinned, yet what has befallen me?"
for the Most High bides his time.
Of forgiveness be not overconfident,
adding sin upon sin.
Say not: "Great is his mercy;
my many sins he will forgive."
For mercy and anger alike are with him;
upon the wicked alights his wrath.
Delay not your conversion to the LORD,
put it not off from day to day.
For suddenly his wrath flames forth;
at the time of vengeance you will be destroyed.
Rely not upon deceitful wealth,
for it will be no help on the day of wrath.

Responsorial Psalm Ps 1:1-2, 3, 4 and 6

R. (40:5a) Blessed are they who hope in the Lord.
Blessed the man who follows not
the counsel of the wicked
Nor walks in the way of sinners,
nor sits in the company of the insolent,
But delights in the law of the LORD
and meditates on his law day and night.
R. Blessed are they who hope in the Lord.
He is like a tree
planted near running water,
That yields its fruit in due season,
and whose leaves never fade.
Whatever he does, prospers.
R. Blessed are they who hope in the Lord.
Not so the wicked, not so;
they are like chaff which the wind drives away.
For the LORD watches over the way of the just,
but the way of the wicked vanishes.
R. Blessed are they who hope in the Lord.

Alleluia 1 Thes 2:13

R. Alleluia, alleluia.
Receive the word of God, not as the word of men,
but as it truly is, the word of God.
R. Alleluia, alleluia.

Gospel Mk 9:41-50

Jesus said to his disciples:
"Anyone who gives you a cup of water to drink
because you belong to Christ,
amen, I say to you, will surely not lose his reward.

"Whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in me to sin,
it would be better for him if a great millstone
were put around his neck
and he were thrown into the sea.
If your hand causes you to sin, cut it off.
It is better for you to enter into life maimed
than with two hands to go into Gehenna,
into the unquenchable fire.
And if your foot causes you to sin, cut if off.
It is better for you to enter into life crippled
than with two feet to be thrown into Gehenna.
And if your eye causes you to sin, pluck it out.
Better for you to enter into the Kingdom of God with one eye
than with two eyes to be thrown into Gehenna,
where their worm does not die, and the fire is not quenched.

"Everyone will be salted with fire.
Salt is good, but if salt becomes insipid,
with what will you restore its flavor?

Keep salt in yourselves and you will have peace with one another."

Be Like Peter

The WORD today (see http://usccb.org/bible/readings/022217.cfm) reminds me that I should be a servant leader, like Peter. 

The first reading shows us how saint Peter, the Church’s leader, wants us to serve. He exhorts the church leaders to take care of those entrusted to their care and not abuse them – to be faithful to their task and be rewarded when Jesus, the chief shepherd, comes again. This is different from the world's view of leaders. Peter wants us to serve as we lead. 

The gospel reminds us that Peter was anointed and chosen by Jesus, how Jesus entrusted the Church to Peter.

And so I say to you, you are Peter,
and upon this rock I will build my Church,
and the gates of the netherworld shall not prevail against it.
I will give you the keys to the Kingdom of heaven.
Whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven;
and whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven

Jesus loved us so much that He appointed and anointed Peter to take care of his church. God revealed to Peter who Jesus was. That is how anointed he is. Jesus trusts in us so much that he gave us one of our own to be our leader in faith. And I believe he is calling us to be like Peter, even if we are not church leaders, to serve Him and bring others to him as we take care of each other in following Christ. We are calling him to be like Peter and serve others as we lead them. To make his love more alive and more real in this world. 

May we look up to Peter and his love for God, and may we always allow God to lead and shepherd us as the psalmist says, us as we serve others. 

Father God,

Thank you for today. Thank you for another day to live. Thank you for reminding me how much you love me. Thank you for giving us saint Peter to take care of us. Thank you for continuing to guide us through the Pope which we consider as the successor of Saint Peter. We pray for the Pope, the servant of the servants of God.  Lord, I also ask that in my own little way, you use me as your servant and may I bring glory and happiness to you. Amen.

Blessed day!

In Christ,

-g-

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February 22, 2017
Feast of the Chair of Saint Peter, Apostle
Lectionary: 535

Reading 1 1 Pt 5:1-4

Beloved:
I exhort the presbyters among you,
as a fellow presbyter and witness to the sufferings of Christ
and one who has a share in the glory to be revealed.
Tend the flock of God in your midst,
overseeing not by constraint but willingly,
as God would have it, not for shameful profit but eagerly.
Do not lord it over those assigned to you,
but be examples to the flock.
And when the chief Shepherd is revealed,
you will receive the unfading crown of glory.

Responsorial Psalm Ps 23:1-3a, 4, 5, 6

R. (1) The Lord is my shepherd; there is nothing I shall want.
The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.
In verdant pastures he gives me repose;
Beside restful waters he leads me;
he refreshes my soul.
R. The Lord is my shepherd; there is nothing I shall want.
Even though I walk in the dark valley
I fear no evil; for you are at my side
With your rod and your staff
that give me courage.
R. The Lord is my shepherd; there is nothing I shall want.
You spread the table before me
in the sight of my foes;
You anoint my head with oil;
my cup overflows.
R. The Lord is my shepherd; there is nothing I shall want.
Only goodness and kindness follow me
all the days of my life;
And I shall dwell in the house of the LORD
for years to come.
R. The Lord is my shepherd; there is nothing I shall want.

Alleluia Mt 16:18

R. Alleluia, alleluia.
You are Peter, and upon this rock I will build my Church;
the gates of the netherworld shall not prevail against it.
R. Alleluia, alleluia.

Gospel Mt 16:13-19

When Jesus went into the region of Caesarea Philippi
he asked his disciples,
"Who do people say that the Son of Man is?"
They replied, "Some say John the Baptist, others Elijah,
still others Jeremiah or one of the prophets."
He said to them, "But who do you say that I am?"
Simon Peter said in reply,
"You are the Christ, the Son of the living God."
Jesus said to him in reply, "Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah.
For flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but my heavenly Father.
And so I say to you, you are Peter,
and upon this rock I will build my Church,
and the gates of the netherworld shall not prevail against it.
I will give you the keys to the Kingdom of heaven.
Whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven;
and whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven." 

Be Great

The WORD today (see http://usccb.org/bible/readings/022117.cfm) reminds me how to be great in God's eyes. 

A few years back, there was a movie about the life of Muhammad Ali, whom many considered one of, if not the world’s greatest boxer, although today Floyd Mayweather insists he is the greatest. The theme song of the Ali movie is titled “The World’s Greatest”. He won many fights, he was a well-respected boxer in the ring, and his skills are superior… that’s why he is a great fighter.

God’s standards are usually opposite as those of the world’s. The greatest in God’s eyes are not the strong and mighty, but the dependent and childlike.

In the gospel, Jesus told his disciples how to be first, how to be great, in God's eyes. He told them that a child is great in God’s eyes, and they should welcome and be like children. That they should humble themselves like the children. Back then, children together with women were the least in the society, so women and of course children are naturally humble because of their situation. 

Why is a child great? Because of his humility and nothingness. He knows he cannot do anything on his own, so he is fully dependent on his parents. Children do not only rely, but also obey their parents – even when they do not understand what the parents are asking them to do. The same way, God wants us to be like that, to know and remember that we really cannot do anything on our own… that we should be fully dependent and obedient on God, our father. This is something difficult, especially for successful and independent people who think they can do anything and can exist on their own.

If we know and accept our nothingness, and fully depend on God, then we are great. For it is when we humbly ask for His grace and guidance that we can be filled with everything God wants to give us. And when we are filled with God, then we are certainly great, for God is in us.

In the  first reading, we are reminded why we should humble ourselves before God. We are reminded why we should trust God. No one who has hoped in the Lord has been disappointed. God does not forsake people who obey Him. God is compassionate and merciful and powerful. That is why we should humble ourselves before him, following the psalmist that reminds us to commit ourselves to the Lord, and he will help us. 

May we be reminded of what it takes to be great in God’s eyes, and do our best to be one.

Father God,

Thank you for today. Thank you for another day to live. Thank you for your reminder. Thank you for sending people in my life who remind me how much you love me and how special I am to you. Lord, I am sorry for the times I put you out of the picture, when I just rely on myself and do things on my own. Sorry for the times I focus too much on myself, how I can be great in the eyes of the world. Help me have the childlike attitude and faith that will always rely on you as I live. Help me submit to your will all the time. Help me humble myself. Help me live like your child so I can be pleasing and great in your eyes. Amen.

Blessed day!

In Christ,

-g-

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February 21, 2017
Tuesday of the Seventh Week in Ordinary Time
Lectionary: 342

Reading 1 Sir 2:1-11

My son, when you come to serve the LORD,
stand in justice and fear,
prepare yourself for trials.
Be sincere of heart and steadfast,
incline your ear and receive the word of understanding,
undisturbed in time of adversity.
Wait on God, with patience, cling to him, forsake him not;
thus will you be wise in all your ways.
Accept whatever befalls you,
when sorrowful, be steadfast,
and in crushing misfortune be patient;
For in fire gold and silver are tested,
and worthy people in the crucible of humiliation.
Trust God and God will help you;
trust in him, and he will direct your way;
keep his fear and grow old therein.

You who fear the LORD, wait for his mercy,
turn not away lest you fall.
You who fear the LORD, trust him,
and your reward will not be lost.
You who fear the LORD, hope for good things,
for lasting joy and mercy.
You who fear the LORD, love him,
and your hearts will be enlightened.
Study the generations long past and understand;
has anyone hoped in the LORD and been disappointed?
Has anyone persevered in his commandments and been forsaken?
has anyone called upon him and been rebuffed?
Compassionate and merciful is the LORD;
he forgives sins, he saves in time of trouble
and he is a protector to all who seek him in truth.

Responsorial Psalm Ps 37:3-4, 18-19, 27-28, 39-40

R. (see 5) Commit your life to the Lord, and he will help you.
Trust in the LORD and do good,
that you may dwell in the land and be fed in security.
Take delight in the LORD,
and he will grant you your heart's requests.
R. Commit your life to the Lord, and he will help you.
The LORD watches over the lives of the wholehearted;
their inheritance lasts forever.
They are not put to shame in an evil time;
in days of famine they have plenty.
R. Commit your life to the Lord, and he will help you.
Turn from evil and do good,
that you may abide forever;
For the LORD loves what is right,
and forsakes not his faithful ones.
R. Commit your life to the Lord, and he will help you.
The salvation of the just is from the LORD;
he is their refuge in time of distress.
And the LORD helps them and delivers them;
he delivers them from the wicked and saves them,
because they take refuge in him.
R. Commit your life to the Lord, and he will help you.

Alleluia Gal 6:14

R. Alleluia, alleluia.
May I never boast except in the Cross of our Lord Jesus Christ,
through which the world has been crucified to me and I to the world.
R. Alleluia, alleluia.

Gospel Mk 9:30-37

Jesus and his disciples left from there and began a journey through Galilee,
but he did not wish anyone to know about it.
He was teaching his disciples and telling them,
"The Son of Man is to be handed over to men
and they will kill him,
and three days after his death the Son of Man will rise."
But they did not understand the saying,
and they were afraid to question him.

They came to Capernaum and, once inside the house,
he began to ask them,
"What were you arguing about on the way?"
But they remained silent.
For they had been discussing among themselves on the way
who was the greatest.
Then he sat down, called the Twelve, and said to them,
"If anyone wishes to be first,
he shall be the last of all and the servant of all."
Taking a child, he placed it in their midst,
and putting his arms around it, he said to them,
"Whoever receives one child such as this in my name, receives me;
and whoever receives me,

receives not me but the One who sent me."

Yes, He Can!

The WORD today (see http://usccb.org/bible/readings/022017.cfm) reminds me how powerful God is. We also see how powerful faith is, and that we should ask for it. 

The gospel tells of a story of a boy possessed by a powerful demon – so powerful that the disciples could not drive it out. The boy’s father was losing hope, feeling helpless on the situation. See an excerpt of the conversation between the boy’s father and Jesus.

“‘If you can!’ Everything is possible to one who has faith.”
Then the boy’s father cried out, “I do believe, help my unbelief!”

How  often do we act like the father? How often do we feel helpless in situations, that we think God cannot do anything about it? How often do we say we trust in God, but are not sure of it ourselves? How often do we say we have faith but deep in our hearts, we are still troubled and we do not know if God can really help us out?

As human beings, we are sometimes limited by what we see. We tend to think “realistically”, based on our situation or on what is actually happening. We focus on what is obvious and what we think is possible based on what happened previously or what our senses can perceive and do. However, unfortunately, sometimes we think God is in the same boat with us – that he is limited by time and space, that his power is not real anymore, that he cannot do things except those what we think is possible and normal. We sometimes base our faith on what we think is possible instead on what God can do. We say we have faith in God, but at the back of our minds, we are thinking of alternative ways because we don’t think God will really come to help us out.

Faith is important for God to do miracles.

It has been mentioned that faith can move mountains, and the lack of faith of people caused him not to do many miracles in his own town. And in the gospel, we are reminded that anything is possible to one who has faith. We may not immediately have that strong a faith, and it’s okay. As we can see, the boy’s father cried out to Jesus. I do believe, help my unbelief. Yes, I believe but not entirely. Naniniwala naman ako, Lord, pero kulang pa. I have faith in you – your love and your power, but sometimes the power of the world, the temptations and distractions of the world, is just so overwhelming. God, help me. Increase my faith.

God hears us. Jesus heard the prayer of the man, and healed the son. God has faith in us as well. He filled up what was missing. He added to the lack of faith of the man snd healed the boy. We need not be perfect, we just need to be humble and sometimes, that is enough for God. 

May we always remember how powerful God is, and may we be humble enough to admit that we lack faith, and pray that God help our unbelief and increase our faith in Him. May we really remember and live this – nothing is impossible to those who have faith.

Father God,

Thank you for today. Thank you for the weekend. Thank you for a new week. Thank you for your great love and great power.  Thank you for this beautiful reminder as I start the week – that nothing is impossible to those who have faith. Lord, sorry for not having a strong faith in you. Sorry for letting the world overwhelm me. Sorry for being weak. Father God, I pray that you help me unbelief. I pray that you increase my faith. There are a lot of things I am thinking – things about my career, my family, and my service to you. Lord, I pray that you increase my faith and help me just trust in you as I live. I know you have great plans for me, and I know you will not disappoint me. May I always be open and allow you to pleasantly surprise me as I live for you. Amen.

Blessed week!

In Christ,

-g-

Ps

See related reflection:

http://mysimplereflection.blogspot.com/2012/02/of-faith-and-humility.html

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February 20, 2017
Monday of the Seventh Week in Ordinary Time
Lectionary: 341

Reading 1 Sir 1:1-10

All wisdom comes from the LORD
and with him it remains forever, and is before all time
The sand of the seashore, the drops of rain,
the days of eternity: who can number these?
Heaven's height, earth's breadth,
the depths of the abyss: who can explore these?
Before all things else wisdom was created;
and prudent understanding, from eternity.
The word of God on high is the fountain of wisdom
and her ways are everlasting.
To whom has wisdom's root been revealed?
Who knows her subtleties?
To whom has the discipline of wisdom been revealed?
And who has understood the multiplicity of her ways?
There is but one, wise and truly awe-inspiring,
seated upon his throne:
There is but one, Most High
all-powerful creator-king and truly awe-inspiring one,
seated upon his throne and he is the God of dominion.
It is the LORD; he created her through the Holy Spirit,
has seen her and taken note of her.
He has poured her forth upon all his works,
upon every living thing according to his bounty;
he has lavished her upon his friends.

Responsorial Psalm Ps 93:1ab, 1cd-2, 5

R. (1a) The Lord is king; he is robed in majesty.
The LORD is king, in splendor robed;
robed is the LORD and girt about with strength.
R. The Lord is king; he is robed in majesty.
And he has made the world firm,
not to be moved.
Your throne stands firm from of old;
from everlasting you are, O LORD.
R. The Lord is king; he is robed in majesty.
Your decrees are worthy of trust indeed:
holiness befits your house,
O LORD, for length of days.
R. The Lord is king; he is robed in majesty.

Alleluia 2 Tm 1:10

R. Alleluia, alleluia.
Our Savior Jesus Christ has destroyed death
and brought life to light through the Gospel.
R. Alleluia, alleluia.

Gospel Mk 9:14-29

As Jesus came down from the mountain with Peter, James, John
and approached the other disciples,
they saw a large crowd around them and scribes arguing with them.
Immediately on seeing him,
the whole crowd was utterly amazed.
They ran up to him and greeted him.
He asked them, "What are you arguing about with them?"
Someone from the crowd answered him,
"Teacher, I have brought to you my son possessed by a mute spirit.
Wherever it seizes him, it throws him down;
he foams at the mouth, grinds his teeth, and becomes rigid.
I asked your disciples to drive it out, but they were unable to do so."
He said to them in reply,
"O faithless generation, how long will I be with you?
How long will I endure you? Bring him to me."
They brought the boy to him.
And when he saw him,
the spirit immediately threw the boy into convulsions.
As he fell to the ground, he began to roll around
and foam at the mouth.
Then he questioned his father,
"How long has this been happening to him?"
He replied, "Since childhood.
It has often thrown him into fire and into water to kill him.
But if you can do anything, have compassion on us and help us."
Jesus said to him,
"'If you can!' Everything is possible to one who has faith."
Then the boy's father cried out, "I do believe, help my unbelief!"
Jesus, on seeing a crowd rapidly gathering,
rebuked the unclean spirit and said to it,
"Mute and deaf spirit, I command you:
come out of him and never enter him again!"
Shouting and throwing the boy into convulsions, it came out.
He became like a corpse, which caused many to say, "He is dead!"
But Jesus took him by the hand, raised him, and he stood up.
When he entered the house, his disciples asked him in private,
"Why could we not drive the spirit out?"
He said to them, "This kind can only come out through prayer."

Be Holy Like God

The WORD today (see http://usccb.org/bible/readings/021917.cfm) reminds me that God wants me to be holy. 

When we look up to people, we observe them. We study them. And sometimes, we want to be like them. We want to have their attitude and the good things about them. This is how we should be with God, especially that in the first reading, he told us so. 

Be Holy, for I, the Lord, your God, am holy. 

Wow, ang bigat! We tend to think that holiness is something we cannot attain. We tend to think that only saints are holy. We tend to think we cannot be holy. We forget that saints are human beings too, like you and I, that lived on this earth and experienced the same things we are experiencing. We forget that since God is holy, and we are creatures of God, we are asked to be holy, and we can be holy.

But what is holy? To be holy simply means to be dedicated or consecrated to God.

Holiness does not necessarily mean you don’t sin. Holiness does not necessarily mean you’ll go out into the world and preach the gospel to everyone. Holiness does not necessarily mean you know the bible from cover to cover, and can perform miracles just like Jesus. 

Holiness means being dedicated or consecrated to God. Whatever we do.Wherever we are.

Holiness is praying even if the world seems to take up all your time. Holiness is going to mass even if other people invite you to go to a movie or hang out. Holiness is living the gospel values even if people around you do otherwise. Holiness is doing good to or simply treating someone fairly, even if that someone annoys you at work. Holiness is seeking God in this busy world.

We can be holy wherever we are and whatever we do. 

It is easy to be holy? No. but is it worth is? Definitely!

When we are trying to be holy, we die of our self and allow God to live in us. We are giving up our wants, our worldly desires, and we are living a holy life to follow Christ. Then we will be rewarded with life with him for eternity. 

What is my notation of holiness? Do I think of it as something I cannot attain, and reserved only for the saints and the religious? What is Jesus telling me today about holiness? Do I want to be holy? How can I start being holy?

May we be aware that we can be holy, and start baby steps in living a life of holiness.

Father God,

Thank you for today. Thank you for another day to live. Thank you for another Sunday. Thank you for the reminder. Thank you for letting me know that I can be holy, and that you are calling me to be holy. Lord, sorry for the times I do not think of holiness. Sorry for the times I am too busy with the world. Lord, I ask that I be more sensitive and aware of how I can be holy in my own little way, wherever I am and whatever I do. May I always seek to be more and more like you, in holiness and love of God the Father. These I ask in the mighty name of Jesus, Amen.

Blessed Sunday!

In Christ,

-g-

Ps

See related reflection:

http://mysimplereflection.blogspot.com/2015/06/extra-mile.html

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February 19, 2017
Seventh Sunday in Ordinary Time
Lectionary: 79

Reading 1 Lv 19:1-2, 17-18

The LORD said to Moses,
"Speak to the whole Israelite community and tell them:
Be holy, for I, the LORD, your God, am holy.

"You shall not bear hatred for your brother or sister in your heart.
Though you may have to reprove your fellow citizen,
do not incur sin because of him.
Take no revenge and cherish no grudge against any of your people.
You shall love your neighbor as yourself.
I am the LORD."

Responsorial Psalm Ps 103:1-2, 3-4, 8, 10, 12-13

R. (8a) The Lord is kind and merciful.
Bless the LORD, O my soul;
and all my being, bless his holy name.
Bless the LORD, O my soul,
and forget not all his benefits.
R. The Lord is kind and merciful.
He pardons all your iniquities,
heals all your ills.
He redeems your life from destruction,
crowns you with kindness and compassion.
R. The Lord is kind and merciful.
Merciful and gracious is the LORD,
slow to anger and abounding in kindness.
Not according to our sins does he deal with us,
nor does he requite us according to our crimes.
R. The Lord is kind and merciful.
As far as the east is from the west,
so far has he put our transgressions from us.
As a father has compassion on his children,
so the LORD has compassion on those who fear him.
R. The Lord is kind and merciful.

Reading 2 1 Cor 3:16-23

Brothers and sisters:
Do you not know that you are the temple of God,
and that the Spirit of God dwells in you?
If anyone destroys God's temple, God will destroy that person;
for the temple of God, which you are, is holy.

Let no one deceive himself.
If any one among you considers himself wise in this age,
let him become a fool, so as to become wise.
For the wisdom of this world is foolishness in the eyes of God,
for it is written:
God catches the wise in their own ruses,
and again:
The Lord knows the thoughts of the wise,
that they are vain.
So let no one boast about human beings, for everything belongs to you,
Paul or Apollos or Cephas,
or the world or life or death,
or the present or the future:
all belong to you, and you to Christ, and Christ to God.

Alleluia 1 Jn 2:5

R. Alleluia, alleluia.
Whoever keeps the word of Christ,
the love of God is truly perfected in him.
R. Alleluia, alleluia.

Gospel Mt 5:38-48

Jesus said to his disciples:
"You have heard that it was said,
An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.
But I say to you, offer no resistance to one who is evil.
When someone strikes you on your right cheek,
turn the other one as well.
If anyone wants to go to law with you over your tunic,
hand over your cloak as well.
Should anyone press you into service for one mile,
go for two miles.
Give to the one who asks of you,
and do not turn your back on one who wants to borrow.

"You have heard that it was said,
You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.
But I say to you, love your enemies
and pray for those who persecute you,
that you may be children of your heavenly Father,
for he makes his sun rise on the bad and the good,
and causes rain to fall on the just and the unjust.
For if you love those who love you, what recompense will you have?
Do not the tax collectors do the same?
And if you greet your brothers only,
what is unusual about that?
Do not the pagans do the same?
So be perfect, just as your heavenly Father is perfect."