Cry

The WORD today reminds me that God hears our cry. 

In one of the first episodes of Modern Family, when Lily was still a baby, they were trying to train her to sleep as she was crying. They can hear her cry, but they try not to go to her so she can be trained. They knew what was happening, however she probably did not feel her dads’ love and attention because of their ignoring her cry.

Sometimes we may feel like that. Sometimes we may feel that God does not love us or does not listen because he seems to be silent. But God knows what is happening to us, even if he seems silent.  He knows what he wants us to learn. and he knows the right time to make his presence felt.

In the first reading, we see this in Hagar and Ishmael. They were sent away. It was not their fault, especially Ishmael, because he was born in that situation. That time Hagar felt they were going to die already, and probably felt God was unfair and was not listening to them. However, God sent an angel to encourage her and comfort her, and eventually saved them from their situation.

God hears our prayers, even if he sometimes appear silent.

Just because God is silent does not mean he is not paying attention. Just because we cannot feel him does not mean he does not care. Just because we are having problems and in pain does not mean God does not love us. He is our loving father, and he knows what we can take, and what we need to grow in faith and to grow closer to him. He watches us closely, and he knows the perfect time to reach out to us.

This is a perfect reminder in this pandemic. We may feel helpless. Response and support of government is frustrating. Double standards. We may feel that there is no light at the end of the long and dark tunnel. But God sees the whole picture. God hears our cries and prayers. We just need to trust in Him. And as we pray and wait, we also need to do our part, just like Hagar continued to walk and saw the water. 

What are my concerns? What are my fears? What are my prayers right now? How is God responding? Is he silent? Do I feel he’s not listening to me? Do I continue to love and trust him? What is he reminding me today? How can I make myself remember his love and power? 

May we be reminded of God’s great love, no matter how silent he may seem sometimes.

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, I am sorry for the times I doubt you. sorry for the times I question you. sorry for the times I feel you are not there, and you don’t care about me because of the pain or discomfort I am in. help me have faith in you. remind me through different things and different people of how much you love me. May my faith grow stronger, that despite of the situation I am in, I may always know and remember you are there and that you love me so much. Help us get through this health crisis. Amen.

Blessed Day!

In Christ,

-g-

Ps 

See related reflection:

http://mysimplereflection.blogspot.com/2020/07/more-than-knowing.html

June 30, 2021

Wednesday of Week 13; First Martyrs of the Church of Rome

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FIRST READING

Genesis 21:5, 8-20a

Abraham was a hundred years old when his son Isaac was born to him. Isaac grew, and on the day of the child’s weaning Abraham held a great feast. 

Sarah noticed the son whom Hagar the Egyptian had borne to Abraham playing with her son Isaac; so she demanded of Abraham: “Drive out that slave and her son! No son of that slave is going to share the inheritance with my son Isaac!” Abraham was greatly distressed, especially on account of his son Ishmael. But God said to Abraham: “Do not be distressed about the boy or about your slave woman. Heed the demands of Sarah, no matter what she is asking of you; for it is through Isaac that descendants shall bear your name. As for the son of the slave woman, I will make a great nation of him also, since he too is your offspring.” 

Early the next morning Abraham got some bread and a skin of water and gave them to Hagar. Then, placing the child on her back, he sent her away. As she roamed aimlessly in the wilderness of Beer-sheba, the water in the skin was used up. So she put the child down under a shrub, and then went and sat down opposite him, about a bowshot away; for she said to herself, “Let me not watch to see the child die.” As she sat opposite Ishmael, he began to cry. God heard the boy’s cry, and God’s messenger called to Hagar from heaven: “What is the matter, Hagar? Don’t be afraid; God has heard the boy’s cry in this plight of his. Arise, lift up the boy and hold him by the hand; for I will make of him a great nation.” Then God opened her eyes, and she saw a well of water. She went and filled the skin with water, and then let the boy drink. 

God was with the boy as he grew up.

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RESPONSORIAL PSALM

Psalm 34:7-8, 10-11, 12-13

R. (7a) The Lord hears the cry of the poor. 

When the poor one called out, the LORD heard, and from all his distress he saved him. The angel of the LORD encamps around those who fear him, and delivers them. 

R. The Lord hears the cry of the poor. 

Fear the LORD, you his holy ones, for nought is lacking to those who fear him. The great grow poor and hungry; but those who seek the LORD want for no good thing. 

R. The Lord hears the cry of the poor. 

Come, children, hear me; I will teach you the fear of the LORD. Which of you desires life, and takes delight in prosperous days? 

R. The Lord hears the cry of the poor.

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ALLELUIA

James 1:18

R. Alleluia, alleluia. 

The Father willed to give us birth by the word of truth that we may be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures. 

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

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GOSPEL

Matthew 8:28-34

When Jesus came to the territory of the Gadarenes, two demoniacs who were coming from the tombs met him. They were so savage that no one could travel by that road. They cried out, “What have you to do with us, Son of God? Have you come here to torment us before the appointed time?” Some distance away a herd of many swine was feeding. The demons pleaded with him, “If you drive us out, send us into the herd of swine.” And he said to them, “Go then!” They came out and entered the swine, and the whole herd rushed down the steep bank into the sea where they drowned. The swineherds ran away, and when they came to the town they reported everything, including what had happened to the demoniacs. Thereupon the whole town came out to meet Jesus, and when they saw him they begged him to leave their district.

Peter and Paul

The WORD today reminds me that I should be like saints Peter and Paul who continued to serve God no matter what situation they were in.

As we celebrate the solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul, I am inspired to be like them. 

The first reading shows us what great things God has done to Peter. He was captured, chained and was set to die. A lot of guards were guarding him to be sure he cannot escape. Then we see that nothing really is impossible with God! God hears the prayers of his people! God sent an angel to take Peter away from a seemingly impossible situation. God turned the hopeless situation into one which shows his great love, power and glory! Peter continued to serve God even if he was in prison, even if times were tough. 

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

God appreciates hard work done for Him.

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

Today, God is asking us the same question: Who am I to you? It does not matter what other people say Jesus is. It does not matter what sins we have committed in the past. It does not matter what we intend to do in our lives. What matters for Christ is our answer to his question, and if like Saints Peter and Paul, we are willing to walk the talk – to live what our answer to what God is in our lives. We should be willing to serve God no matter what situation we are in. 

Who is God to me? Who is God in my life? Do I put him first in my life? Do I believe that he is all loving, all merciful, all powerful? Do I believe that he can work great things to and through me? Do I serve him? Do I continue to serve him when times are tough? 

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

Father God,

Thank you for today. Thank you for another day to live. Thank you for another chance to experience your love and live my faith. Thank you for the reminder and challenge. Lord, I praise and adore you for who you are. I am so blessed that you are the same yesterday, today and tomorrow, and that no matter what I do, you will not love me less. I am so grateful to be worshipping the same God that Peter and Paul worshipped. Sorry for the times I do not act like Sts Peter and Paul. Sorry for being afraid to proclaim my faith. Sorry for losing hope and faith. Increase my faith. I believe that you will use me in a mighty way the same way you used Peter and Paul for your glory. Lord, I ask that you help me live my life proclaiming that you are the Messiah, that you are my God, so that I can bring people to you and glorify you. Help me be like them who tirelessly served you, especially when times are tough. May I live my love for you through service. This I ask in Jesus name, Amen.

Blessed Day!

In Christ,

-g-

June 29, 2021

Solemnity of Saint Peter and Saint Paul, Apostles

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Mass During the Day

FIRST READING

Acts 12:1–11

In those days, King Herod laid hands upon some members of the Church to harm them. He had James, the brother of John, killed by the sword, and when he saw that this was pleasing to the Jews he proceeded to arrest Peter also. —It was the feast of Unleavened Bread.— He had him taken into custody and put in prison under the guard of four squads of four soldiers each. He intended to bring him before the people after Passover. Peter thus was being kept in prison, but prayer by the Church was fervently being made to God on his behalf. 

On the very night before Herod was to bring him to trial, Peter, secured by double chains, was sleeping between two soldiers, while outside the door guards kept watch on the prison. Suddenly the angel of the Lord stood by him, and a light shone in the cell. He tapped Peter on the side and awakened him, saying, “Get up quickly.” The chains fell from his wrists. The angel said to him, “Put on your belt and your sandals.” He did so. Then he said to him, “Put on your cloak and follow me.” So he followed him out, not realizing that what was happening through the angel was real; he thought he was seeing a vision. They passed the first guard, then the second, and came to the iron gate leading out to the city, which opened for them by itself. They emerged and made their way down an alley, and suddenly the angel left him.

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RESPONSORIAL PSALM

Psalm 34:2–3, 4–5, 6–7, 8–9 (5)

R. The angel of the Lord will rescue those who fear him. 

I will bless the LORD at all times; his praise shall be ever in my mouth. Let my soul glory in the LORD; the lowly will hear me and be glad. 

R. The angel of the Lord will rescue those who fear him. 

Glorify the LORD with me, let us together extol his name. I sought the LORD, and he answered me and delivered me from all my fears. 

R. The angel of the Lord will rescue those who fear him. 

Look to him that you may be radiant with joy, and your faces may not blush with shame. When the poor one called out, the LORD heard, and from all his distress he saved him. 

R. The angel of the Lord will rescue those who fear him. 

The angel of the LORD encamps around those who fear him, and delivers them. Taste and see how good the LORD is; blessed the man who takes refuge in him. 

R. The angel of the Lord will rescue those who fear him.

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SECOND READING

2 Timothy 4:6–8, 17–18

I, Paul, am already being poured out like a libation, and the time of my departure is at hand. I have competed well; I have finished the race; I have kept the faith. From now on the crown of righteousness awaits me, which the Lord, the just judge, will award to me on that day, and not only to me, but to all who have longed for his appearance. 

The Lord stood by me and gave me strength, so that through me the proclamation might be completed and all the Gentiles might hear it. And I was rescued from the lion’s mouth. The Lord will rescue me from every evil threat and will bring me safe to his heavenly kingdom. To him be glory forever and ever. Amen.

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ALLELUIA

Matthew 16:18

R. Alleluia, alleluia. 

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

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

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GOSPEL

Matthew 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.”

What It Takes

The WORD today reminds me of what it takes to follow God, and how serious it is. 

It is very hard to be an athlete. They train for hours to be the best in their sport. Not only that, it is actually a lifestyle. They eat proper food, get enough sleep, and skip late night activities and other things that will be bad for their training and conditioning. Serious stuff. They do a lot and give up a lot to be able to prepare well and be the best they can be. This should also be our attitude as we serve God.

In the gospel, Jesus is saying that serving God is serious. We see Jesus telling us what it takes. The scribe came to him, wanting to be his disciple. But he reminded him how challenging it will be. Animals have places to stay, Jesus the Son of Man do not. This just shows how unrewarding in the world this would be. Probably applicable to him since as a scribe, he is used to honors and in being important in society. You won’t get that with Jesus. On the other hand, The other disciple told Jesus that he would first take care of things at home. He is delaying responding to God. He has worldly things to take care of first. This reminds us that One’s obligations to family and social responsibilities should not get in the way of our serving God. Once we say yes to serving God, we should not look back at our old life, at other responsibilities, or anything that will hinder us from serving Him. 

This is what is takes to serve God, full focus on Him. 

There are times it is easy to serve God. When things are new and fun, when you’re serving with friends, when activities are nice and easy, it is very fun to serve God. However, we should continue serving Him when things change. When the demands at work are overwhelming, or when there are concerns in life – financial concerns, health concerns, relationship concerns, then it becomes a challenge serving God. We should serve him even if we are not rewarded by the world, or if we are not acknowledged and even judged by the world. This is the time our character is built. This is the time we really need to serve God. This is the time to focus on Him and not on other things that hinder us from serving Him.

Do I serve God in my life? How? Am I living my life pleasing to God and in accordance to his values? Do I seek worldly rewards and recognition as I serve God? Do I give excuses for not serving God? Do I delay in serving him? In what ways? What is he telling me today?

May we be inspired by the readings to take seriously serving God. 

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 another week. thank you for the reminder. Lord, thank you for the opportunity to serve you. Sorry for the times I do not serve you. Sorry for having lots of reasons and excuses for not serving you. Sorry for delaying serving you. And sorry for expecting rewards as I serve you. Lord, I will serve you because I love you. I know you call us to serve in different ways, and I pray that I would always be sensitive to the ways you are calling me to serve you. and when I hear you, help me be serious about it. Despite all the challenges and distractions, help me focus on you and serve you despite of everything. I know it will make you happy. As I serve you, use my service to bring glory to your name. Amen.

Blessed Week!

In Christ,

-g-

June 28, 2021

Monday of Week 13; St. Irenaeus

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FIRST READING

Genesis 18:16-33

Abraham and the men who had visited him by the Terebinth of Mamre set out from there and looked down toward Sodom; Abraham was walking with them, to see them on their way. The LORD reflected: “Shall I hide from Abraham what I am about to do, now that he is to become a great and populous nation, and all the nations of the earth are to find blessing in him? Indeed, I have singled him out that he may direct his children and his household after him to keep the way of the LORD by doing what is right and just, so that the LORD may carry into effect for Abraham the promises he made about him.” Then the LORD said: “The outcry against Sodom and Gomorrah is so great, and their sin so grave, that I must go down and see whether or not their actions fully correspond to the cry against them that comes to me. I mean to find out.” 

While the two men walked on farther toward Sodom, the LORD remained standing before Abraham. Then Abraham drew nearer to him and said: “Will you sweep away the innocent with the guilty? Suppose there were fifty innocent people in the city; would you wipe out the place, rather than spare it for the sake of the fifty innocent people within it? Far be it from you to do such a thing, to make the innocent die with the guilty, so that the innocent and the guilty would be treated alike! Should not the judge of all the world act with justice?” The LORD replied, “If I find fifty innocent people in the city of Sodom, I will spare the whole place for their sake.” Abraham spoke up again: “See how I am presuming to speak to my Lord, though I am but dust and ashes! What if there are five less than fifty innocent people? Will you destroy the whole city because of those five?” He answered, “I will not destroy it if I find forty-five there.” But Abraham persisted, saying, “What if only forty are found there?” He replied, “I will forbear doing it for the sake of forty.” Then Abraham said, “Let not my Lord grow impatient if I go on. What if only thirty are found there?” He replied, “I will forbear doing it if I can find but thirty there.” Still Abraham went on, “Since I have thus dared to speak to my Lord, what if there are no more than twenty?” He answered, “I will not destroy it for the sake of the twenty.” But he still persisted: “Please, let not my Lord grow angry if I speak up this last time. What if there are at least ten there?” He replied, “For the sake of those ten, I will not destroy it.” 

The LORD departed as soon as he had finished speaking with Abraham, and Abraham returned home.

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RESPONSORIAL PSALM

Psalm 103:1b-2, 3-4, 8-9, 10-11

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, he heals all your ills. He redeems your life from destruction, he 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. He will not always chide, nor does he keep his wrath forever. 

R. The Lord is kind and merciful. 

Not according to our sins does he deal with us, nor does he requite us according to our crimes. For as the heavens are high above the earth, so surpassing is his kindness toward those who fear him. 

R. The Lord is kind and merciful.

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ALLELUIA

Psalm 95:8

R. Alleluia, alleluia. 

If today you hear his voice, harden not your hearts. 

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

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GOSPEL

Matthew 8:18-22

When Jesus saw a crowd around him, he gave orders to cross to the other shore. A scribe approached and said to him, “Teacher, I will follow you wherever you go.” Jesus answered him, “Foxes have dens and birds of the sky have nests, but the Son of Man has nowhere to rest his head.” Another of his disciples said to him, “Lord, let me go first and bury my father.” But Jesus answered him, “Follow me, and let the dead bury their dead.”

Powerful Faith

The WORD today reminds me of something very powerful – Faith.

In the gospel we see Jesus faced with something we all can relate to, especially now – health problems. Jairus came to her to have his daughter healed. They were on their way when a woman came to Jesus and touched his cloak. Jesus asked who touched her, because he knew someone touched him and that power came out of him. Of course, being the Son of God, he knows that. I believe he also knew who touched her. He just wanted to see if the woman would stand up and be responsible for her actions, even if she felt she would be reprimanded for it. During that time, social division was strong. There were slaves and masters, and widows and women are on the bottom of the hierarchy. The widow was boldly breaking rules as she came directly to Jesus. She probably thought she would be punished or reprimanded, still she held up for her actions. Then we see Jesus breaking social barriers and commending her faith. “Daughter, your faith has saved you” Yes, Jesus cannot work miracles without our faith (Matthew 13:58). He goes on further assuring her she did nothing wrong, and is healed already “Go in peace and be cured of your affliction”

On the way to Jairus’ house, they received news that the daughter died already. Well, indeed nothing is impossible for God.  Again, Jesus emphasizes the importance of faith. “Do not be afraid, just have faith” Although it was not explicitly stated that Jairus had faith (except for the fact he asked Jesus to heal his daughter, thus had faith in Jesus), we can see he had faith because he still brought home Jesus and He was able to heal his daughter.

God does not want sickness and death. The first reading tells us that it was the devil who brought death into the world. God created beautiful beings and he does not want destruction. Thus, we should be encouraged and have faith in God’s love and power. And as we are healed, we are encouraged by the second reading to help others as well, to repay God’s goodness to us by helping out others, by sharing God’s blessings to us.

Do not be afraid; just have faith.

God is reminding us to just trust in him – no matter what the situation may be. Especially when the situation seem to be hopeless or impossible, like where we are right now. In this life there will be a lot of challenges, and tough ones at that. No matter what you do, there will always be negative reactions. Jesus is telling us to keep our faith, to focus on Him and to just continue to trust in Him. The enemy cannot prevail over God, so no matter how difficult the situation may be, it is nothing God cannot handle and win over. Yes, nothing is impossible for Him (Matthew 19:26) and he will never give us something we cannot bear through him (1 Corinthians 10:13)

What are my concerns right now? What am I praying for? What is something I want to be healed of or want to be freed from? What challenges are there in my life right now? Do I believe that I can go through this, through God’s grace? Do I know that nothing is impossible for God? Do I know that God needs my faith to save me?

May we be reminded on the power of faith in God, and not only pray for faith, but do our part to improve our faith.

Father God,

Thank you for today. Thank you for another Sunday. Thank you for the reminders. Lord, I praise and thank you for your great, redeeming and healing love for me. Thank you for always keeping me safe and watching over me. Lord, I am sorry for the times I take you for granted and for taking your blessings for granted just because I think everyone experiences the same as well. Sorry for the times that I feel the situation is hopeless or impossible, that even you cannot do anything to improve it. I ask that you bless my efforts to strengthen my faith. As I read the bible, pray more, and partake of the sacraments and get to know you more, may my faith increase. May I always trust in you, no matter what the situation may be. I know Lord that nothing is too big or too small for you, and that you will always be there to guide and protect me, even if I cannot feel it sometimes. Use me Lord for your kingdom, and may my faith be a sign of your great love and power to others.  Amen.

Blessed Sunday!

In Christ,

-g-

Ps

See related reflections:

http://mysimplereflection.blogspot.com/2012/07/faith-that-heals.html

https://mysimplereflection.blogspot.com/2018/07/powerful-faith.html

June 27, 2021

13th Sunday in Ordinary Time; St. Cyril of Alexandria

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FIRST READING

Wisdom 1:13–15; 2:23–24

God did not make death, nor does he rejoice in the destruction of the living. For he fashioned all things that they might have being; and the creatures of the world are wholesome, and there is not a destructive drug among them nor any domain of the netherworld on earth, for justice is undying. For God formed man to be imperishable; the image of his own nature he made him. But by the envy of the devil, death entered the world, and they who belong to his company experience it.

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RESPONSORIAL PSALM

Psalm 30:2, 4, 5–6, 11, 12, 13 (2a)

R. I will praise you, Lord, for you have rescued me. 

I will extol you, O LORD, for you drew me clear and did not let my enemies rejoice over me. O LORD, you brought me up from the netherworld; you preserved me from among those going down into the pit. 

R. I will praise you, Lord, for you have rescued me. 

Sing praise to the LORD, you his faithful ones, and give thanks to his holy name. For his anger lasts but a moment; a lifetime, his good will. At nightfall, weeping enters in, but with the dawn, rejoicing. 

R. I will praise you, Lord, for you have rescued me. 

Hear, O LORD, and have pity on me; O LORD, be my helper. You changed my mourning into dancing; O LORD, my God, forever will I give you thanks. 

R. I will praise you, Lord, for you have rescued me.

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SECOND READING

2 Corinthians 8:7, 9, 13–15

Brothers and sisters:
As you excel in every respect, in faith, discourse, knowledge, all earnestness, and in the love we have for you, may you excel in this gracious act also. 

For you know the gracious act of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, for your sake he became poor, so that by his poverty you might become rich. Not that others should have relief while you are burdened, but that as a matter of equality your abundance at the present time should supply their needs, so that their abundance may also supply your needs, that there may be equality. As it is written: Whoever had much did not have more, and whoever had little did not have less.

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ALLELUIA

see 2 Timothy 1:10

R. Alleluia, alleluia. 

Our Savior Jesus Christ destroyed death and brought life to light through the Gospel. 

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

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GOSPEL

Longer Form Mark 5:21–43

When Jesus had crossed again in the boat to the other side, a large crowd gathered around him, and he stayed close to the sea. One of the synagogue officials, named Jairus, came forward. Seeing him he fell at his feet and pleaded earnestly with him, saying, “My daughter is at the point of death. Please, come lay your hands on her that she may get well and live.” He went off with him, and a large crowd followed him and pressed upon him. 

There was a woman afflicted with hemorrhages for twelve years. She had suffered greatly at the hands of many doctors and had spent all that she had. Yet she was not helped but only grew worse. She had heard about Jesus and came up behind him in the crowd and touched his cloak. She said, “If I but touch his clothes, I shall be cured.” Immediately her flow of blood dried up. She felt in her body that she was healed of her affliction. Jesus, aware at once that power had gone out from him, turned around in the crowd and asked, “Who has touched my clothes?” But his disciples said to Jesus, “You see how the crowd is pressing upon you, and yet you ask, ‘Who touched me?’” And he looked around to see who had done it. The woman, realizing what had happened to her, approached in fear and trembling. She fell down before Jesus and told him the whole truth. He said to her, “Daughter, your faith has saved you. Go in peace and be cured of your affliction.” 

While he was still speaking, people from the synagogue official’s house arrived and said, “Your daughter has died; why trouble the teacher any longer?” Disregarding the message that was reported, Jesus said to the synagogue official, “Do not be afraid; just have faith.” He did not allow anyone to accompany him inside except Peter, James, and John, the brother of James. When they arrived at the house of the synagogue official, he caught sight of a commotion, people weeping and wailing loudly. So he went in and said to them, “Why this commotion and weeping? The child is not dead but asleep.” And they ridiculed him. Then he put them all out. He took along the child’s father and mother and those who were with him and entered the room where the child was. He took the child by the hand and said to her, “Talitha koum,” which means, “Little girl, I say to you, arise!” The girl, a child of twelve, arose immediately and walked around. At that they were utterly astounded. He gave strict orders that no one should know this and said that she should be given something to eat. 

or: 

Shorter Form Mark 5:21–24, 35b–43

When Jesus had crossed again in the boat to the other side, a large crowd gathered around him, and he stayed close to the sea. One of the synagogue officials, named Jairus, came forward. Seeing him he fell at his feet and pleaded earnestly with him, saying, “My daughter is at the point of death. Please, come lay your hands on her that she may get well and live.” He went off with him, and a large crowd followed him and pressed upon him. 

While he was still speaking, people from the synagogue official’s house arrived and said, “Your daughter has died; why trouble the teacher any longer?” Disregarding the message that was reported, Jesus said to the synagogue official, “Do not be afraid; just have faith.” He did not allow anyone to accompany him inside except Peter, James, and John, the brother of James. When they arrived at the house of the synagogue official, he caught sight of a commotion, people weeping and wailing loudly. So he went in and said to them, “Why this commotion and weeping? The child is not dead but asleep.” And they ridiculed him. Then he put them all out. He took along the child’s father and mother and those who were with him and entered the room where the child was. He took the child by the hand and said to her, “Talitha koum,” which means, “Little girl, I say to you, arise!” The girl, a child of twelve, arose immediately and walked around. At that they were utterly astounded. He gave strict orders that no one should know this and said that she should be given something to eat.

Firm Faith

The WORD today reminds me to have firm faith in God. 

In the movie "Faith like Potatoes", Angus Buchan's faith is obvious when he said that "the condition for a miracle is difficulty. The condition for a great miracle is impossibility" and his faith enabled him to experience a great miracle. 

In the gospel, we see someone with great faith that Jesus himself commended. The centurion had great faith in Jesus. He did not need him to physically go to his house. He knew that just the mere word of Jesus is enough. Not only that, he asked for healing not for himself or his family, but for his servant! What a great person. What a great leader. A good person full of faith in God. Inspiring. 

Amen, I say to you, in no one in Israel have I found such faith

In fact, this faith is so great and inspiring that we remember it every time we celebrate the holy mass. 

Lord, I am not worthy to have you enter under my roof; only say the word and my servant (soul) will be healed

Of course, Jesus honored this man's faith, and let him witness a miracle. Jesus never disappoints. He rewarded the centurion’s faith in Him. 

“You may go; as you have believed, let it be done for you.” And at that very hour his servant was healed. 

Nowadays, we are faced with situations that will test our faith. We have a lot of questions. When will this pandemic end? Will politics and corruption in our country decrease? Will peace and order be stabilized?  Does God really have a great plan for me? Will I be healed of this sickness? Will I be able to get out of debt? When will my career improve? What will happen to me during this pandemic? These are things that we worry about. Things that test our faith. However, we are reminded in the gospel of the love and power of Jesus. He healed the man's servant by his mere word. He healed peter's mother in law. He healed all the sick and those possessed who were brought to him. Nothing is impossible for the power of God. 

Do I have faith in God, especially during difficult situations? How do I react when seemingly trapped and hopeless? Do I get strength and take refuge in other things and other people, or do I have firm faith in God? What seemingly impossible situation did God take me out of? When did I experience God’s great power and love? What challenging or impossible situation am I faced with now? What is he telling me today? 

May we be inspired by the centurion’s great and firm faith, and be assured of Jesus' love and power. 

Father God,

Thank you for today. Thank you for another day to live. Thank you for another weekend. Thank you for all the blessings. Lord, I am sorry for doubting your love and power, especially when the situation seems to be impossible to get out of. Sorry for being impatient with your plans for me. Sorry for losing my faith when situations are tough. Sorry for not having firm faith. Help me, Lord. Increase my faith in and love for you. May I have faith like the centurion, especially with the concerns I have in life. May I have faith like the centurion especially when the situations are against me. Use my faith and enable great things to happen for your purpose and glory. Amen. 

Blessed Weekend! 

In Christ,

-g-

Ps

See related reflection:

https://mysimplereflection.blogspot.com/2016/06/he-cured-all.html

http://mysimplereflection.blogspot.com/2015/06/never-too-late.html

June 26, 2021

Saturday of Week 12; St. Josemaría Escrivá

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FIRST READING

Genesis 18:1-15

The LORD appeared to Abraham by the Terebinth of Mamre, as Abraham sat in the entrance of his tent, while the day was growing hot. Looking up, he saw three men standing nearby. When he saw them, he ran from the entrance of the tent to greet them; and bowing to the ground, he said: “Sir, if I may ask you this favor, please do not go on past your servant. Let some water be brought, that you may bathe your feet, and then rest yourselves under the tree. Now that you have come this close to your servant, let me bring you a little food, that you may refresh yourselves; and afterward you may go on your way.” The men replied, “Very well, do as you have said.” 

Abraham hastened into the tent and told Sarah, “Quick, three measures of fine flour! Knead it and make rolls.” He ran to the herd, picked out a tender, choice steer, and gave it to a servant, who quickly prepared it. Then Abraham got some curds and milk, as well as the steer that had been prepared, and set these before them; and he waited on them under the tree while they ate. 

They asked him, “Where is your wife Sarah?” He replied, “There in the tent.” One of them said, “I will surely return to you about this time next year, and Sarah will then have a son.” Sarah was listening at the entrance of the tent, just behind him. Now Abraham and Sarah were old, advanced in years, and Sarah had stopped having her womanly periods. So Sarah laughed to herself and said, “Now that I am so withered and my husband is so old, am I still to have sexual pleasure?” But the LORD said to Abraham: “Why did Sarah laugh and say, ‘Shall I really bear a child, old as I am?’ Is anything too marvelous for the LORD to do? At the appointed time, about this time next year, I will return to you, and Sarah will have a son.” Because she was afraid, Sarah dissembled, saying, “I didn’t laugh.” But he replied, “Yes you did.”

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RESPONSORIAL PSALM

Luke 1:46-47, 48-49, 50 and 53, 54-55 

R. (see 54b) The Lord has remembered his mercy. 

“My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord, my spirit rejoices in God my Savior.” 

R. The Lord has remembered his mercy. 

“For he has looked with favor on his lowly servant. From this day all generations will call me blessed: the Almighty has done great things for me, and holy is his Name.” 

R. The Lord has remembered his mercy. 

“He has mercy on those who fear him in every generation. He has filled the hungry with good things, and the rich he has sent away empty.” 

R. The Lord has remembered his mercy. 

“He has come to the help of his servant Israel for he has remembered his promise of mercy, The promise he made to our fathers, to Abraham and his children for ever.” 

R. The Lord has remembered his mercy.

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ALLELUIA

Matthew 8:17

R. Alleluia, alleluia. 

Christ took away our infirmities and bore our diseases. 

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

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GOSPEL

Matthew 8:5-17

When Jesus entered Capernaum, a centurion approached him and appealed to him, saying, “Lord, my servant is lying at home paralyzed, suffering dreadfully.” He said to him, “I will come and cure him.” The centurion said in reply, “Lord, I am not worthy to have you enter under my roof; only say the word and my servant will be healed. For I too am a man subject to authority, with soldiers subject to me. And I say to one, ‘Go,’ and he goes; and to another, ‘Come here,’ and he comes; and to my slave, ‘Do this,’ and he does it.” When Jesus heard this, he was amazed and said to those following him, “Amen, I say to you, in no one in Israel have I found such faith. I say to you, many will come from the east and the west, and will recline with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob at the banquet in the Kingdom of heaven, but the children of the Kingdom will be driven out into the outer darkness, where there will be wailing and grinding of teeth.” And Jesus said to the centurion, “You may go; as you have believed, let it be done for you.” And at that very hour his servant was healed. 

Jesus entered the house of Peter, and saw his mother-in-law lying in bed with a fever. He touched her hand, the fever left her, and she rose and waited on him. 

When it was evening, they brought him many who were possessed by demons, and he drove out the spirits by a word and cured all the sick, to fulfill what had been said by Isaiah the prophet: 

He took away our infirmities and bore our diseases.

Powerful Word

The WORD today reminds me how powerful God's word is. 

Nowadays, power is equated to something – a strong military, fast processing, clear images, top speed. all these things are associated with power. However, we see in the gospel how different God’s power is. More simple, but more powerful.

God’s word is powerful.

In the first reading, we see God’s word as his covenant to Abraham. He told Abraham that he will be a father of many nations, and Sarah will bear a child in her own age. Seems impossible, yes. But not with God. We know God kept his word. 

In the gospel, we see a leper being healed with just Jesus’ words. Yes there were actions, but it was his words. His power. His love. Jesus words healed the man. Jesus words were enough to heal the man. That’s how powerful God’s word is. And of course, the faith of the man got him healed. He believed in Jesus power.

When he says he has great plans for us, we should believe it. When he says he is watching over us, we should believe it. God’s word is true and powerful, and we should hold on to it, especially when situations are tough. The leper was probably helpless. No one can help him. No one can heal him. He was dirty and despised by everyone. Situation was against him. Logic was against him. The leper has been living in a difficult situation before he got a chance to go to Jesus. He was tired. Hopeless probably. But those things are not enough to stop God's word from coming true. 

We are still in a tough situation right now, but we should remember that God’s word is more powerful than the pandemic we are in. He is still in control. We just have to believe in him. And do our part to make his love more alive. 

What are the problems I carry right now? How do I feel about these problems? Do I trust God? Do I lift up these things to God? Do I believe his words and promises for me? 

May we be comforted in the love of God and the power of his word.

Father God,

Thank you for today. Thank you for another day to live. thank you for another Friday. Lord, thank you for always loving me. thank you for always looking after me, especially when I do not feel it and when I do not appreciate it. Lord, sorry for the times I ignore you. Sorry for the times I let the world dictate my feelings. Sorry for letting myself be overwhelmed by the world. Lord, help me have faith in you, your love and your powerful word. I know that whatever situation I may be in, your love is greater and your word more powerful than it. May I always have faith in you. Always. Amen.

Blessed Day!

In Christ,

-g-

Ps

See related reflections:

http://mysimplereflection.blogspot.com/2015/01/complete-healing.html

http://mysimplereflection.blogspot.com/2015/01/reaching-out.html

June 25, 2021

Friday of Week 12; St. William of Vercelli

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FIRST READING

Genesis 17:1, 9-10, 15-22

When Abram was ninety-nine years old, the LORD appeared to him and said: “I am God the Almighty. Walk in my presence and be blameless.” 

God also said to Abraham:
“On your part, you and your descendants after you must keep my covenant throughout the ages. This is my covenant with you and your descendants after you that you must keep: every male among you shall be circumcised.” 

God further said to Abraham:
“As for your wife Sarai, do not call her Sarai; her name shall be Sarah. I will bless her, and I will give you a son by her. Him also will I bless; he shall give rise to nations, and rulers of peoples shall issue from him.” Abraham prostrated himself and laughed as he said to himself, “Can a child be born to a man who is a hundred years old? Or can Sarah give birth at ninety?” Then Abraham said to God, “Let but Ishmael live on by your favor!” God replied: “Nevertheless, your wife Sarah is to bear you a son, and you shall call him Isaac. I will maintain my covenant with him as an everlasting pact, to be his God and the God of his descendants after him. As for Ishmael, I am heeding you: I hereby bless him. I will make him fertile and will multiply him exceedingly. He shall become the father of twelve chieftains, and I will make of him a great nation. But my covenant I will maintain with Isaac, whom Sarah shall bear to you by this time next year.” When he had finished speaking with him, God departed from Abraham.

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RESPONSORIAL PSALM

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

R. (4) See how the Lord blesses those who fear him. 

Blessed are you who fear the LORD, who walk in his ways! For you shall eat the fruit of your handiwork; blessed shall you be, and favored. 

R. See how the Lord blesses those who fear him. 

Your wife shall be like a fruitful vine in the recesses of your home; Your children like olive plants around your table. 

R. See how the Lord blesses those who fear him. 

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. See how the Lord blesses those who fear him.

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ALLELUIA

Matthew 8:17

R. Alleluia, alleluia. 

Christ took away our infirmities and bore our diseases. 

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

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GOSPEL

Matthew 8:1-4

When Jesus came down from the mountain, great crowds followed him. And then a leper approached, did him homage, and said, “Lord, if you wish, you can make me clean.” He stretched out his hand, touched him, and said, “I will do it. Be made clean.” His leprosy was cleansed immediately. Then Jesus said to him, “See that you tell no one, but go show yourself to the priest, and offer the gift that Moses prescribed; that will be proof for them.”