Transfiguration 2020

The WORD today reminds me of God's great glory. 

As we celebrate the Feast the Transfiguration, I am reminded of God's great glory, and the readings beautifully illustrate it. 

In the first reading, we see how human words describe God’s power, glory and dominion. Such an amazing sight to see. We could only imagine how great and majestic it really was. This shows how great and powerful God is, and how powerful Jesus, the Son of Man is, receiving dominion, glory and kingship from God.

The second reading is Peter’s testament of what happened in the gospel. In the gospel, we see an account of Jesus’ transfiguration.Jesus chose to reveal a glimpse of his glory to three of his closest friends, the big three of the apostles – Peter, James and John. They saw Jesus transfigured, and saw Moses and Elijah, representing the Law and the Prophets respectively, with him. What an amazing sight it must have been. Then to cap it off, they heard God’s voice – “This is my chosen Son, listen to Him.”  Probably they were thinking that Wow! this Jesus is indeed the real thing. 

We see how great and powerful God is. We see how anointed and glorious Jesus is. This should lead us to remember and be thankful to Jesus and God. God loves us so much that he sent his only Son to be separated with him in his glory and become one like us. How special we really are!

However, this should not end here. Knowing how great God is, knowing how glorious Jesus is, is not enough. Just as we excitingly share news of great leaders in our lives, we too should share God to others. In the latter part of the gospel, the three wanted to build tents and stay in the mountain. Of course, it was such a glorious sight, a spiritually high moment. But Jesus said no. Jesus asked them to come down the mountain. What does it tell us? Just as Jesus told the three to go down, we too should go back to reality. We should go back into the world and live the gospel. Preach the gospel. Share God to others. It is not enough that we know and experience how great God is. We should also go back and proclaim him to other people. That’s the challenge. That’s the work we need to do.

Do I believe God is really all powerful, all glorious? Do I know and appreciate how much God loves me? When do I experience God in a special way? Am I willing to go back to reality and work to proclaim his greatness? Where is he calling me to preach? How?

May we always remember how great and powerful God is, and may it lead us to share him to others.

Father God,

Thank you today. thank you for giving me another day to live and to serve you. Thank you for reminding me of how great the God I am serving. Lord, help me respond to your call. Alam ko mahirap, minsan gusto ko nalang magdasal mag isa, or masaya na ako sa experience ko sa iyo, or I just want to live right and not care about others. Sorry for not wanting and willing to share you to others. Sorry for the times I forget how amazing you are. But Lord, I know you want me to act. I know you want me to move. I know you want me to make disciples for you. So I ask you Lord to give me faith to step out of my comfort zone and do what you want, so I can do my part in building your kingdom. Help me proclaim you in my life. Amen.

Blessed Day!

In Christ,

-g-

August 06, 2020

The Transfiguration of the Lord - Feast

FIRST READING

Daniel 7:9–10, 13–14

As I watched:

Thrones were set up and the Ancient One took his throne. His clothing was bright as snow, and the hair on his head as white as wool; his throne was flames of fire, with wheels of burning fire. A surging stream of fire flowed out from where he sat; thousands upon thousands were ministering to him, and myriads upon myriads attended him. The court was convened and the books were opened.

As the visions during the night continued, I saw:

One like a Son of man coming, on the clouds of heaven; when he reached the Ancient One and was presented before him, the one like a Son of man received dominion, glory, and kingship; all peoples, nations, and languages serve him. His dominion is an everlasting dominion that shall not be taken away, his kingship shall not be destroyed.

RESPONSORIAL PSALM

Psalm 97:1–2, 5–6, 9 (1a, 9a)

R. The Lord is king, the Most High over all the earth.

The LORD is king; let the earth rejoice; let the many islands be glad. Clouds and darkness are round about him, justice and judgment are the foundation of his throne.

R. The Lord is king, the most high over all the earth.

The mountains melt like wax before the LORD, before the LORD of all the earth. The heavens proclaim his justice, all peoples see his glory.

R. The Lord is king, the most high over all the earth.

Because you, O LORD, are the Most High over all the earth, exalted far above all gods.

R. The Lord is king, the most high over all the earth.

SECOND READING

2 Peter 1:16–19

Beloved:

We did not follow cleverly devised myths when we made known to you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but we had been eyewitnesses of his majesty. For he received honor and glory from God the Father when that unique declaration came to him from the majestic glory, “This is my Son, my beloved, with whom I am well pleased.” We ourselves heard this voice come from heaven while we were with him on the holy mountain. Moreover, we possess the prophetic message that is altogether reliable. You will do well to be attentive to it, as to a lamp shining in a dark place, until day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts.

ALLELUIA

Matthew 17:5c

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

This is my beloved Son with whom I am well pleased; listen to him.

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

GOSPEL

Matthew 17:1–9

Jesus took Peter, James, and his brother, John, and led them up a high mountain by themselves. And he was transfigured before them; his face shone like the sun and his clothes became white as light. And behold, Moses and Elijah appeared to them, conversing with him. Then Peter said to Jesus in reply, “Lord, it is good that we are here. If you wish, I will make three tents here, one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah.” While he was still speaking, behold, a bright cloud cast a shadow over them, then from the cloud came a voice that said, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased; listen to him.” When the disciples heard this, they fell prostrate and were very much afraid. But Jesus came and touched them, saying, “Rise, and do not be afraid.” And when the disciples raised their eyes, they saw no one else but Jesus alone.

As they were coming down from the mountain, Jesus charged them, “Do not tell the vision to anyone until the Son of Man has been raised from the dead.”

Strong Humble Persistent

The WORD today reminds me that I should have strong faith in God, while remaining humble and persistent. 

Not a lot of people can accept rejection. Some, or probably a lot, stop after being rejected. That is why I admire the persistence of people in the sales industry. They are very used to rejections. But they keep on offering things anyway. They keep on selling. Because they know eventually someone would be interested and will buy something from them. This is similar to the woman in the gospel. 

In the gospel, we see a woman we should imitate. The Canaanite woman showed great humility, persistence, and strong faith. This is one of the few times Jesus actually “tests” a person. Usually, Jesus grants the people’s requests – for healing from sickness and disease, from freedom from evil spirits, even from death. However, today’s gospel shows us a different side of Jesus. His approach initially seems tough. “ it is not right to take the food of the children and throw it to the dogs” – meaning Jews first, the chosen people. Sila muna ang tutulungan ko, tsaka na kayo. Jesus even compared her (being a Caananite makes her a non Jew, a gentile) to a dog. Grabe diba, request denied na nga, tapos kinumpara pa sa aso. 

Did she stop there?

Of course not! It’s inspiring how great the woman’s faith, persistence and humility are. She was humble to come to him for her daughter’s healing, and was humble enough to accept and not be offended by Jesus words. Even though she did not get a warm treatment, she did not back down.  Then we see her faith, na kahit parang nireject na sya ni Jesus, she still believed. We also see her persistence. She did not just leave, when the disciples sent her away, and when Jesus seemed to ignore her. She humbly insisted on her request. on her faith. Sabi nya “Please, Lord, for even the dogs eat the scraps that fall from the table of their masters.” Kung baga, sabi nya, OK lang Lord na kung tingin mo aso kami, pero may faith parin ako na kahit konti, kahit tira tira nalang ng para sa Jews, ay makakapag pagaling sa anak ko. And when Jesus told her that her daughter is free from the demon, she did not say “Lord, sumama ka naman sakin para sure” or “Lord, are you sure?” She just went home

Hindi lahat ng bagay nakukuha sa isang dasal. Minsan kailangang magpakumbaba pa, magdasal pa, at mangulit pa. 

God is good. He is our Father. He is all powerful and all loving. His ways may not necessarily be our ways. He may not respond to us the way we want to. However, one thing is for sure - he loves us. And not only that, he has great plans for us. So we should just trust in Him, especially when it is difficult to. Especially when it does not seem to make sense. He knows what he is doing. We just need to have faith.

We have been in a pandemic for a few months. And we have been praying to God. For safety. For a cure. For our leaders to do what is best for our country and the people. But sometimes, we may feel God is deaf. We may feel he is not answering us, or giving us the exact opposite like how Jesus responded to the woman. However, we need to have more faith. We need to be humble and pray more. We should not lose faith, but show God that no matter what the situation, we will have faith in him. And that while we are waiting for better days, we will do what we can in our own little way. 

How is my faith in God? How do we react When God seem to say “no” to our requests, even if we feel that our request is for our good, or for other people’s good, what do we tell him? Do we get mad, insisting that what we are asking is a good thing, or do we humbly accept his will but keeping the faith? Do we respectfully ask in faith, or are we proud, demanding that God grant our requests because we feel we are entitled to it?

May we always remember to have complete faith in God, yet humble enough to know and accept that His will is perfect, even if it does not seem to coincide with our will and our ways. 

Father God,

Thank you for today. thank you for another day to live. Thank you for the inspiring reminder. Lord, I thank you for reminding me how important faith, humility and persistence are. Thank you for inspiring and challenging me, Lord. I am sorry for the times I act like a spoiled child – wanting things done my way, wanting prayers to be answered my way and in my time. Lord, I pray that you help me have a heart like the woman. May my faith be firm, even when you’re not answering me the way I want to. May I be persistent in praying even when I don’t seem to get what I want. And may I always be humble to submit to your perfect will, not mine, especially when my will is different from yours. I have faith that you will help us het through this pandemic. Amen

Blessed Day!

In Christ,

-g-

August 05, 2020

Wednesday of Week 18; Dedication of the Basilica of St. Mary Major

FIRST READING

Jeremiah 31:1-7

At that time, says the LORD, I will be the God of all the tribes of Israel, and they shall be my people. Thus says the LORD: The people that escaped the sword have found favor in the desert. As Israel comes forward to be given his rest, the LORD appears to him from afar: With age-old love I have loved you; so I have kept my mercy toward you. Again I will restore you, and you shall be rebuilt, O virgin Israel; Carrying your festive tambourines, you shall go forth dancing with the merrymakers. Again you shall plant vineyards on the mountains of Samaria; those who plant them shall enjoy the fruits. Yes, a day will come when the watchmen will call out on Mount Ephraim: “Rise up, let us go to Zion, to the LORD, our God.”

For thus says the LORD:

Shout with joy for Jacob, exult at the head of the nations; proclaim your praise and say: The LORD has delivered his people, the remnant of Israel.

RESPONSORIAL PSALM

Jeremiah 31:10, 11-12ab, 13 

R. (see 10d) The Lord will guard us as a shepherd guards his flock.

Hear the word of the LORD, O nations, proclaim it on distant isles, and say: He who scattered Israel, now gathers them together, he guards them as a shepherd his flock.

R. The Lord will guard us as a shepherd guards his flock.

The LORD shall ransom Jacob, he shall redeem him from the hand of his conqueror. Shouting, they shall mount the heights of Zion, they shall come streaming to the LORD’s blessings.

R. The Lord will guard us as a shepherd guards his flock.

Then the virgins shall make merry and dance, and young men and old as well. I will turn their mourning into joy. I will console and gladden them after their sorrows.

R. The Lord will guard us as a shepherd guards his flock.

ALLELUIA

Luke 7:16

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

A great prophet has arisen in our midst and God has visited his people.

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

GOSPEL

Matthew 15: 21-28

At that time Jesus withdrew to the region of Tyre and Sidon. And behold, a Canaanite woman of that district came and called out, “Have pity on me, Lord, Son of David! My daughter is tormented by a demon.” But he did not say a word in answer to her. His disciples came and asked him, “Send her away, for she keeps calling out after us.” He said in reply, “I was sent only to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.” But the woman came and did him homage, saying, “Lord, help me.” He said in reply, “It is not right to take the food of the children and throw it to the dogs.” She said, “Please, Lord, for even the dogs eat the scraps that fall from the table of their masters.” Then Jesus said to her in reply, “O woman, great is your faith! Let it be done for you as you wish.” And her daughter was healed from that hour.

From the Inside

The WORD today reminds me that makes me clean or dirty is coming from the inside, not from outside. 

It is easy to appear good to other people. Superficial level. Mukhang mabait, mukhang magalang. Mukhang matulungin. It is easy to organize and attend socio civic activities that alleviate poverty. It is easy to organize fundraising activities for our less fortunate brothers and sisters. It is easy to attend prayer gatherings and appear holy. However, doing these things does not necessarily mean that goodness is inside the person.

This is shown in the gospel. The Pharisees were surprised that Jesus and his followers did not clean their hands as prescribed by the law. These Pharisees appear to be good and holy, following the law of Moses before eating. But that is just superficial level. Jesus knows that the inside of these Pharisees, what their hearts contain, is not clean.

God sees beyond the superficial level.

What makes us clean, or unclean, comes from the inside. 

Organizing and attending such activities with hidden agenda, may make no difference in the surface level. Probably money will still go to the poor even if the intention is not really to help them, but to build up your reputation. Seems the same, but God sees what is in our hearts. God sees if our service to him is genuine or fake. God sees is our worship is pure or not. These things will make us clean or unclean in God’s eyes.

God is reminding us today to check our hearts. Check our reasons and intentions for doing good to others, for worshipping God. Is it really to give back to God, to share our blessings to others, or just for our personal hidden agenda? God sees what others cannot, so we always have to pray that we be guided and our intentions always be pure as we do things for God.

God has been asking us to share our blessings to other people, especially during this pandemic. And in one way or another, we have probably helped people. However, we should go deeper. Helping is good. But we should also examine ourselves. We should examine what our reasons are for helping other people. Aside from helping, we should have pure intentions for doing so.

Do I always pray that my intentions be pure as I serve God? Do I even reflect to see what my intentions are, or am I satisfied with merely doing things? Do I judge others based on their actions, or do I pray for guidance to discern their intentions?

May we always take time to examine our hearts as we do things especially for God. 

Father God,
Thank you for today. Thank you for another day to live. Thank you for reminding me that what makes me unclean comes from inside. Lord, sorry for the times I get contented with superficial service to and love for you. Sorry for not always giving you my heart as I do these things. Lord, help me purify my intentions as I serve you, as I do things for you. May I not have hidden agendas for doing good things in this world. I know it is easy to get distracted in this world. It is easy to work for fame and affirmation rather than you. Help me keep my eyes on you.  May I always put the focus on you, and may my reason for doing these things be to praise and glorify you, not myself. Amen

Blessed Day!

In Christ,

-g-

Ps

See related reflections:

http://mysimplereflection.blogspot.com/2015/02/from-inside.html

http://mysimplereflection.blogspot.com/2014/10/clean-inside.html

August 04, 2020

Tuesday of Week 18; St. John Mary Vianney

---

FIRST READING

Jeremiah 30:1-2, 12-15, 18-22

The following message came to Jeremiah from the LORD:
For thus says the LORD, the God of Israel: Write all the words I have spoken to you in a book.

For thus says the LORD:
Incurable is your wound, grievous your bruise; There is none to plead your cause, no remedy for your running sore, no healing for you. All your lovers have forgotten you, they do not seek you. I struck you as an enemy would strike, punished you cruelly; Why cry out over your wound? your pain is without relief. Because of your great guilt, your numerous sins, I have done this to you.

Thus says the LORD:
See! I will restore the tents of Jacob, his dwellings I will pity; City shall be rebuilt upon hill, and palace restored as it was. From them will resound songs of praise, the laughter of happy men. I will make them not few, but many; they will not be tiny, for I will glorify them. His sons shall be as of old, his assembly before me shall stand firm; I will punish all his oppressors. His leader shall be one of his own, and his rulers shall come from his kin. When I summon him, he shall approach me; how else should one take the deadly risk of approaching me? says the LORD. You shall be my people, and I will be your God.

---

RESPONSORIAL PSALM

Psalm 102:16-18, 19-21, 29 and 22-23

R. (17) The Lord will build up Zion again, and appear in all his glory.

The nations shall revere your name, O LORD, and all the kings of the earth your glory, When the LORD has rebuilt Zion and appeared in his glory; When he has regarded the prayer of the destitute, and not despised their prayer.

R. The Lord will build up Zion again, and appear in all his glory.

Let this be written for the generation to come, and let his future creatures praise the LORD: “The LORD looked down from his holy height, from heaven he beheld the earth, To hear the groaning of the prisoners, to release those doomed to die.”

R. The Lord will build up Zion again, and appear in all his glory.

The children of your servants shall abide, and their posterity shall continue in your presence, That the name of the LORD may be declared on Zion; and his praise, in Jerusalem, When the peoples gather together and the kingdoms, to serve the LORD.

R. The Lord will build up Zion again, and appear in all his glory.

---

ALLELUIA

John 1:49b

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

Rabbi, you are the Son of God; you are the King of Israel.

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

---

GOSPEL

Matthew 14:22-36

Jesus made the disciples get into a boat and precede him to the other side of the sea, while he dismissed the crowds. After doing so, he went up on the mountain by himself to pray. When it was evening he was there alone. Meanwhile the boat, already a few miles offshore, was being tossed about by the waves, for the wind was against it. During the fourth watch of the night, he came toward them, walking on the sea. When the disciples saw him walking on the sea they were terrified. “It is a ghost,” they said, and they cried out in fear. At once Jesus spoke to them, “Take courage, it is I; do not be afraid.” Peter said to him in reply, “Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you on the water.” He said, “Come.” Peter got out of the boat and began to walk on the water toward Jesus. But when he saw how strong the wind was he became frightened; and, beginning to sink, he cried out, “Lord, save me!” Immediately Jesus stretched out his hand and caught him, and said to him, “O you of little faith, why did you doubt?” After they got into the boat, the wind died down. Those who were in the boat did him homage, saying, “Truly, you are the Son of God.”

After making the crossing, they came to land at Gennesaret. When the men of that place recognized him, they sent word to all the surrounding country. People brought to him all those who were sick and begged him that they might touch only the tassel on his cloak, and as many as touched it were healed.

or:

Matthew 15:1-2, 10-14

Some Pharisees and scribes came to Jesus from Jerusalem and said, “Why do your disciples break the tradition of the elders? They do not wash their hands when they eat a meal.” He summoned the crowd and said to them, “Hear and understand. It is not what enters one’s mouth that defiles the man; but what comes out of the mouth is what defiles one.” Then his disciples approached and said to him, “Do you know that the Pharisees took offense when they heard what you said?” He said in reply, “Every plant that my heavenly Father has not planted will be uprooted. Let them alone; they are blind guides of the blind. If a blind man leads a blind man, both will fall into a pit.”

Walk on Water

The WORD today reminds me how important it is to focus on Jesus.

 In the movie Happy Gilmore, the secret of Happy to get him focused and make a good shot is to think of a happy place. During stressful situations, he would think of a happy place to help him relax as he prepares for the shot, and it helps him. This is true as well for Peter Pan, when he says that people should just think of happy thoughts to be able to fly. In the gospel, we see something similar.

The disciples were on a boat when the sea got rough. They probably were not scared since most of them were fishermen. However, when they saw Jesus on water, they initially thought he was a ghost. Then when Jesus told them it was him, Peter asked Jesus to call him to the water. Jesus did, and Peter, full of faith in Jesus was able to walk on water. However, when he was distracted by the waves, and probably it sank into him he was walking on water and got worried. Then, he began to sink. But of course Jesus helped him when Peter cried out.

Keeping our eyes on Jesus will keep us above the challenges of life

I am sure we can relate to Peter. Sometimes, especially when we are spiritually high after a retreat or after experiencing something great from God, we feel we can do anything with God. Like Peter, we will leave our comfort zone and walk on water when Jesus tells us. However, sometimes this doesn’t last. When the spiritual high fades away, when we are back to the daily grind of life, or when we are faced with life’s challenges, we get scared and lose our focus on God. Then we cry out to God for help, and he always comes to our rescue.

God’s power is enough to sustain us. God’s love is so great. We just have to always focus on Him. We just always have to trust in him, especially when problems overwhelm us. Yes, situations may seem scary and overwhelming, but they will only affect us if we focus on them. No problem can weigh us down if we know that God’s love and power is bigger the these problems. As they say, all the water in the world cannot sink a ship unless they enter it. We should learn to keep them outside and focus on God as we face life.

Today, we are probably in a similar situation. We are in a small boat in a stormy sea. Nakaka takot. We feel small and helpless. That’s probably how we feel with the covid pandemic - especially with how our leaders are handling and reacting. However, we should just focus on God. Whether or not the government heeds the call and concerns / advices of medical professionals is not within our control. What we can do, however, is to focus on God. Seek him. Look and see how we can help other people. How we can respond. There are calls and posters on what we can do ourselves. God is still present. God is around. And he is asking us to join him. To spread his gospel of love and hope. We can do our part. We should.

What is the biggest problem I have right now? How do I feel about it? What am I doing about it? Do I have faith that God can and will help me, or do I stress myself out finding out solutions without putting God in the picture? Do i know that God wants me to just focus on Him and trust him? How can I increase my faith?

May we be inspired and strengthened to be reminded of God’s love and power in our lives.

Father God,
Thank you for today. Thank you for another day to live. Thank you for another week. thank you for another chance to love and serve you. thank you for everything. Lord, sorry for the times I do not focus in you. Sorry for the times I focus on the problem. I am sorry for the times I let the water in my life, sorry for the times I let problems overwhelm and drown me. I ask that you help me always focus on you. always remind me of your love and power. help me to always fix my eyes on you and focus on you and not on anyone or anything else. I know that nothing is too big for you, and your love and power is greater than any problem or challenge in life.  Help me stay afloat and walk above the water. Amen.

In Christ,
-g-

Ps
See related reflections:
https://mysimplereflection.blogspot.com/2016/08/walk-on-water_11.html
https://mysimplereflection.blogspot.com/2014/08/never-doubt-him.html

August 03, 2020

Monday of Week 18; St. Philip Benizi

FIRST READING

Jeremiah 28:1-17
In the beginning of the reign of Zedekiah, king of Judah, in the fifth month of the fourth year, the prophet Hananiah, son of Azzur, from Gibeon, said to me in the house of the LORD in the presence of the priests and all the people: “Thus says the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel: ‘I will break the yoke of the king of Babylon. Within two years I will restore to this place all the vessels of the temple of the LORD which Nebuchadnezzar, king of Babylon, took away from this place to Babylon. And I will bring back to this place Jeconiah, son of Jehoiakim, king of Judah, and all the exiles of Judah who went to Babylon,’ says the LORD, ‘for I will break the yoke of the king of Babylon.’”

The prophet Jeremiah answered the prophet Hananiah in the presence of the priests and all the people assembled in the house of the LORD, and said: Amen! thus may the LORD do! May he fulfill the things you have prophesied by bringing the vessels of the house of the LORD and all the exiles back from Babylon to this place! But now, listen to what I am about to state in your hearing and the hearing of all the people. From of old, the prophets who were before you and me prophesied war, woe, and pestilence against many lands and mighty kingdoms. But the prophet who prophesies peace is recognized as truly sent by the LORD only when his prophetic prediction is fulfilled.

Thereupon the prophet Hananiah took the yoke from the neck of the prophet Jeremiah and broke it, and said in the presence of all the people: “Thus says the LORD: ‘Even so, within two years I will break the yoke of Nebuchadnezzar, king of Babylon, from off the neck of all the nations.’” At that, the prophet Jeremiah went away.

Some time after the prophet Hananiah had broken the yoke from off the neck of the prophet Jeremiah, The word of the Lord came to Jeremiah: Go tell Hananiah this: Thus says the LORD: By breaking a wooden yoke, you forge an iron yoke! For thus says the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel:
A yoke of iron I will place on the necks of all these nations serving Nebuchadnezzar, king of Babylon, and they shall serve him; even the beasts of the field I give him.

To the prophet Hananiah the prophet Jeremiah said: Hear this, Hananiah! The LORD has not sent you, and you have raised false confidence in this people. For this, says the LORD, I will dispatch you from the face of the earth; this very year you shall die, because you have preached rebellion against the LORD. That same year, in the seventh month, Hananiah the prophet died.

RESPONSORIAL PSALM

Psalm 119:29, 43, 79, 80, 95, 102
R. (68b) Lord, teach me your statutes.

Remove from me the way of falsehood, and favor me with your law.

R. Lord, teach me your statutes.

Take not the word of truth from my mouth, for in your ordinances is my hope.

R. Lord, teach me your statutes.

Let those turn to me who fear you and acknowledge your decrees.

R. Lord, teach me your statutes.

Let my heart be perfect in your statutes, that I be not put to shame.

R. Lord, teach me your statutes.

Sinners wait to destroy me, but I pay heed to your decrees.

R. Lord, teach me your statutes.

From your ordinances I turn not away, for you have instructed me.

R. Lord, teach me your statutes.

ALLELUIA

Matthew 4:4
R. Alleluia, alleluia.

One does not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes forth from the mouth of God.

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

GOSPEL

Matthew 14:22-36
Jesus made the disciples get into a boat and precede him to the other side of the sea, while he dismissed the crowds. After doing so, he went up on the mountain by himself to pray. When it was evening he was there alone. Meanwhile the boat, already a few miles offshore, was being tossed about by the waves, for the wind was against it. During the fourth watch of the night, he came toward them, walking on the sea. When the disciples saw him walking on the sea they were terrified. “It is a ghost,” they said, and they cried out in fear. At once Jesus spoke to them, “Take courage, it is I; do not be afraid.”
Peter said to him in reply, “Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you on the water.” He said, “Come.” Peter got out of the boat and began to walk on the water toward Jesus. But when he saw how strong the wind was he became frightened; and, beginning to sink, he cried out, “Lord, save me!” Immediately Jesus stretched out his hand and caught him, and said to him, “O you of little faith, why did you doubt?” After they got into the boat, the wind died down. Those who were in the boat did him homage, saying, “Truly, you are the Son of God.”

After making the crossing, they came to land at Gennesaret. When the men of that place recognized him, they sent word to all the surrounding country. People brought to him all those who were sick and begged him that they might touch only the tassel on his cloak, and as many as touched it were healed.

Only You

The WORD today reminds me that nothing can separate us from God’s love – except ourselves.

There are relationships wherein you constantly strive to please the other person. You act your best, put your best foot forward everytime, and try to be the best version of yourself. Though this is good, sometimes others can find this tiring. You are constantly trying to prove yourself worthy of the other person’s love and do your best not to show anything negative for fear of the other person losing interest in you. However, God is not like this. God’s love is nothing like this. Unlike people whose love and affection we need to get and retain, God’s love is permanent. God’s love is not for us to gain, but ours to lose. 

Nothing can separate you from God’s love.

In the second reading, we see that nothing can really separate us from God’s love. Anguish, distress, famine, nakedness, peril or the sword will not separate us from God’s love. Nothing. Not death, nor life, nor angels, not principalities, not present or future things, no power, height and depth and no any other creature can separate us from God’s love. Nothing can separate us from His love. No one can separate us from his love. No sin is greater than his love and forgiveness. We cannot do anything that can take his love away from us.

The first reading and the gospel show us how loving God is. They show us how God wants us and wants to take care of us. The first reading is a reminder to come to God to be filled. The gospel is a reminder that Jesus fills us even with our physical needs. God really takes care of us. He is ready. We just need to come to him. 

A gift will only be transferred is the one receiving the gift accepts it. No matter how loving and generous the giver is, if the receiver do not want to accept the gift, he will not be able to enjoy it. His love is God’s gift to us, and we will choose if we will receive it or not. We have the decision to remain in his love or not. God will not force himself on us. God will not force us to love him and accept his love.

Do I realize how much God loves me? Do I feel his love in my life? What is he telling me today?

May we be strengthened to know that nothing and no one can take God’s love away from us, and be aware that it is still our decision to accept him and his love for us.

Father God,

Thank you for today. Thank you for another day to live. Thank you for another day to experience your love. Thank you for your great love – so great that nothing and no one can take it away from me. Lord, you know I love you and I want your love. Sorry for the times I do not show it. Sorry for the times I sin and tell you I don’t want it. Help me humble myself before you. Help me choose you and your love instead of choosing my own will. May my life and actions tell you that I love you and that I want to remain in your love – because you know I do. Amen.

Blessed Sunday!

In Christ,

-g-

August 02, 2020

18th Sunday in Ordinary Time; St. Peter Julian Eymard 

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FIRST READING

Isaiah 55:1–3

Thus says the LORD:
All you who are thirsty, come to the water! You who have no money, come, receive grain and eat; come, without paying and without cost, drink wine and milk! Why spend your money for what is not bread; your wages for what fails to satisfy? Heed me, and you shall eat well, you shall delight in rich fare. Come to me heedfully, listen, that you may have life. I will renew with you the everlasting covenant, the benefits assured to David.

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RESPONSORIAL PSALM

Psalm 145:8–9, 15–16, 17–18 (see 16)

R. The hand of the Lord feeds us; he answers all our needs.

The LORD is gracious and merciful, slow to anger and of great kindness. The LORD is good to all and compassionate toward all his works.

R. The hand of the Lord feeds us; he answers all our needs.

The eyes of all look hopefully to you, and you give them their food in due season; you open your hand and satisfy the desire of every living thing.

R. The hand of the Lord feeds us; he answers all our needs.

The LORD is just in all his ways and holy in all his works. The LORD is near to all who call upon him, to all who call upon him in truth.

R. The hand of the Lord feeds us; he answers all our needs.

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SECOND READING

Romans 8:35, 37–39

Brothers and sisters:
What will separate us from the love of Christ? Will anguish, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or the sword? No, in all these things we conquer overwhelmingly through him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor present things, nor future things, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.

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ALLELUIA

Matthew 4:4b

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

One does not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes forth from the mouth of God.

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

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GOSPEL

Matthew 14:13–21

When Jesus heard of the death of John the Baptist, he withdrew in a boat to a deserted place by himself. The crowds heard of this and followed him on foot from their towns. When he disembarked and saw the vast crowd, his heart was moved with pity for them, and he cured their sick. When it was evening, the disciples approached him and said, “This is a deserted place and it is already late; dismiss the crowds so that they can go to the villages and buy food for themselves.” Jesus said to them, “There is no need for them to go away; give them some food yourselves.” But they said to him, “Five loaves and two fish are all we have here.” Then he said, “Bring them here to me,” and he ordered the crowds to sit down on the grass. Taking the five loaves and the two fish, and looking up to heaven, he said the blessing, broke the loaves, and gave them to the disciples, who in turn gave them to the crowds. They all ate and were satisfied, and they picked up the fragments left over — twelve wicker baskets full. Those who ate were about five thousand men, not counting women and children.

Holy Courage

The WORD today reminds me that I should have courage as I do God’s work.

Some people equate courage with being brave. To not back down and be ready to fight in war and battles. In some sense, this is true. But it is more than that, especially when it comes to our spiritual life. That is what I am reminded of today.

Courage is the will and decision to continue doing God's work despite of the powerful worldly opposition.

We see people exhibiting that courage in the readings. Jeremiah proclaimed God's message even if the powerful people did not initially approve of it. Powerful priests and prophets were against him. They wanted him dead. However, He was brave and did God's work, even if it could cause him his life. In the gospel, John the Baptist also did the same. He preached God's word to the king and the powerful people, even if it put him in prison. These two did not let powerful people bring them down and prevent them from doing God's work. They had Holy Courage to go on and do His work despite powerful opposition.

God wants us to be like that as well.

Doing God's work is not easy. Proclaiming his message is not always exciting. Living his ways are not always rewarding. There are others, powerful in the world, who may threaten us, disrespect us, or entice us to stop following God and live of the world. However, we should take courage and trust that God will always be there for us no matter what.

However, doing God’s works do not guarantee good results or even safety. God's ways are not our ways. His plans may be different from ours. We need to trust him, but it does not guarantee it will get us what we want. Jeremiah was spared, but John the Baptist was killed. Both had courage and trusted in God, but different things happened to them. However, we should always remember that everything happens with God's permission, and God's plans are always perfect. So we just need to trust in Him in everything.

How do I react when faced with powerful opposition? Do I trust God, especially at these times? Do I let powerful people intimidate me, or do I know my purpose and keep doing God’s work despite of this? How can I strengthen my faith and have more courage for God?

May we be inspired to have courage as we do God's work, and trust in him all throughout.

Father God,
Thank you for today. Thank you for another day to live. Thank you for another weekend. Thank you for always being there for me. Lord, sorry for the times I don't trust you enough. Sorry for the times I back down when I experience opposition from the world. Help me to just focus on you. Help me have faith in you. Give me courage to do your work no matter what. Equip me and use me to further your kingdom here on earth. Amen. 

Blessed Weekend!

In Christ,
-g-

Ps
See related reflections:
http://mysimplereflection.blogspot.com/2019/08/faithful-until-end.html
http://mysimplereflection.blogspot.com/2014/08/hes-got-you.html



August 01, 2020
Saturday of Week 17; St. Alphonsus Liguori
FIRST READING

Jeremiah 26:11-16, 24
The priests and prophets said to the princes and to all the people, “This man deserves death; he has prophesied against this city, as you have heard with your own ears.” Jeremiah gave this answer to the princes and all the people: “It was the LORD who sent me to prophesy against this house and city all that you have heard. Now, therefore, reform your ways and your deeds; listen to the voice of the LORD your God, so that the LORD will repent of the evil with which he threatens you. As for me, I am in your hands; do with me what you think good and right. But mark well: if you put me to death, it is innocent blood you bring on yourselves, on this city and its citizens. For in truth it was the LORD who sent me to you, to speak all these things for you to hear.”

Thereupon the princes and all the people said to the priests and the prophets, “This man does not deserve death; it is in the name of the LORD, our God, that he speaks to us.”

So Ahikam, son of Shaphan, protected Jeremiah, so that he was not handed over to the people to be put to death.

RESPONSORIAL PSALM

Psalm 69:15-16, 30-31, 33-34
R. (14c) Lord, in your great love, answer me.

Rescue me out of the mire; may I not sink! may I be rescued from my foes, and from the watery depths. Let not the flood-waters overwhelm me, nor the abyss swallow me up, nor the pit close its mouth over me.

R. Lord, in your great love, answer me.

But I am afflicted and in pain; let your saving help, O God, protect me. I will praise the name of God in song, and I will glorify him with thanksgiving.

R. Lord, in your great love, answer me.

“See, you lowly ones, and be glad; you who seek God, may your hearts revive! For the LORD hears the poor, and his own who are in bonds he spurns not.”

R. Lord, in your great love, answer me.

ALLELUIA

Matthew 5:10
R. Alleluia, alleluia.

Blessed are they who are persecuted for the sake of righteousness for theirs is the Kingdom of heaven.

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

GOSPEL

Matthew 14:1-12
Herod the tetrarch heard of the reputation of Jesus and said to his servants, “This man is John the Baptist. He has been raised from the dead; that is why mighty powers are at work in him.”

Now Herod had arrested John, bound him, and put him in prison on account of Herodias, the wife of his brother Philip, for John had said to him, “It is not lawful for you to have her.” Although he wanted to kill him, he feared the people, for they regarded him as a prophet. But at a birthday celebration for Herod, the daughter of Herodias performed a dance before the guests and delighted Herod so much that he swore to give her whatever she might ask for. Prompted by her mother, she said, “Give me here on a platter the head of John the Baptist.” The king was distressed, but because of his oaths and the guests who were present, he ordered that it be given, and he had John beheaded in the prison. His head was brought in on a platter and given to the girl, who took it to her mother. His disciples came and took away the corpse and buried him; and they went and told Jesus.