CHRISTmas 2020

The WORD today reminds me how beautiful and meaningful Christmas is. 

Before the pandemic struck us, they say that Christmas is the longest season here in the Philippines. As early as September, or when the –BER months enter, there are already Christmas decors on display, and some establishments already play Christmas songs - especially malls. And after weeks of preparing and waiting for Jesus, we now commemorate his coming. In the first reading, Isaiah says: For a child is born to us, a son is given us (Isaiah 9:6). Eto na yun. God’s immense love for us made concrete by his sending of his one and only Son to save us from our sins. He even allowed his Son to be born in a manger, with the animals, because he loves us and wants us not to be intimidated by his Son, but be able to relate and feel comfortable with Him. 

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

O Holy Night! The stars are brightly shining,

It is the night of the dear Saviour's birth. Long lay the world in sin and error pining.

‘Till He appeared and the soul felt its worth.

Deep.

Until he appeared and the soul felt its worth. 

Until Jesus appeared. 

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

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

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

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

What is important to God is we welcome him, we allow Him to stay in us, no matter how unprepared, no matter how dirty, no matter how unworthy our heart is for Him. IF we allow him to stay, if we welcome him, if we allow him to do whatever he wants, he will use us mightily, and we would glorify God by it, and the more we continue doing these, the more our soul will feel its worth. The second reading reminds us that God grace appeared, saving all. His love and grace and salvation is for everyone. He is eager to cleanse us, to love us, to save us. We just have to let him.

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

Father God,

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

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

Have a Merry and Blessed Christmas!

In Christ,

-g-

December 25 2020

Mass During the Night

The Nativity of the Lord (Christmas) - Mass During the Night

Reading 1IS 9:1-6

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

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

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

Reading 2 TI 2:11-14

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

Alleluia LK 2:10-11

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

Gospel LK 2:1-14

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

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

Still Prepare

The WORD today reminds me that I should continue my preparation for Christ's coming. 

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

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

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

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

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

May we make the decision to continue to prepare not just for Christmas, but for Christ’s eventual coming. 

Father God,

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

Blessed Day!

In Christ,

-g-

December 24, 2020

The Nativity of the Lord; St. Peter Nolasco

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Morning Mass

FIRST READING

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

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

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

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RESPONSORIAL PSALM

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

R. (2) For ever I will sing the goodness of the Lord.

The favors of the LORD I will sing forever; through all generations my mouth shall proclaim your faithfulness. For you have said, “My kindness is established forever”; in heaven you have confirmed your faithfulness.

R. For ever I will sing the goodness of the Lord.

“I have made a covenant with my chosen one, I have sworn to David my servant: Forever will I confirm your posterity and establish your throne for all generations.”

R. For ever I will sing the goodness of the Lord.

“He shall say of me, ‘You are my father, my God, the rock, my savior.’ Forever I will maintain my kindness toward him, and my covenant with him stands firm.”

R. For ever I will sing the goodness of the Lord.

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ALLELUIA

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

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

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

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GOSPEL

Luke 1:67-79

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

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

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Purified for Christmas

The WORD today reminds me that although purification is painful, it is important especially as we prepare for Christmas. 

The first reading struck me, as it reminded me of a story I read a few years back. 

For he is like the refiner's fire,

or like the fuller's lye.

He will sit refining and purifying silver,

and he will purify the sons of Levi,

Refining them like gold or like silver\

that they may offer due sacrifice to the LORD.

The story below helps me understand more the verse. It made me realize that this is God’s way of preparing me, of purifying me. The process may be painful and challenging, but it is comforting and assuring to know that during the entire process, he keeps his eyes on me, reminding me of his promise that I will not be given problems more than I can handle (1 Cor 10:13). I know he will continue to purify me until he can see his face in me, which makes everything well worth it. That is why, no matter how painful it may be, it is very important – for it makes us more and more like Jesus

In the gospel, we see how Zechariah’s purification ended. In God’s perfect time, things became better for him. He may have suffered as Elizabeth was pregnant, but true to the first reading, he was purified so he can offer due sacrifice to God. And when he said that the child’s name is John, he spoke blessing God, and holy fear came to their town. As he was purified, as he became more and more like Christ, he was blessed and his words gave glory to God.

As Christmas comes, may we continue to allow God to prepare us the way he wants to. MAy we continue to allow Him to purify us. This may entail pain, but we should just trust in Him, and know that all he wants is the best for us. Even if we feel pain, let us remember that he is holding us the entire time, and he knows exactly what we can handle, he knows when to take us out... And despite the pain that purification may cause us, may we take inspiration that as we are being purified, we are being transformed to be more and more like Jesus.

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 all the blessings. Thank you for this reminder and inspiration. Lord, I thank you for your protection. And I am sorry for not always acknowledging it. Sorry for forgetting it. Sorry for the times I do not believe it just because things are tough. A lot of times life is be challenging, but I know you are purifying me. And I know the whole time, your eyes are fixed on me, watching me and protecting me, making sure that I will not be subjected to more than what I can handle. I know that all these challenges and these pain will eventually make sense. I know all these, with your guidance, will make me more and more like you. May I be faithful as I allow you to purify me as I focus on the end, when you will be able to see your face in me. Amen.

Blessed Day!

In Christ,

-g-

Ps

See related story:

Malachi 3 says: 'He will sit as a refiner and purifier of silver.'

This verse puzzled some women in a Bible study and they wondered what
this statement meant about the character and nature of God.

One of the women offered to find out the process of refining silver
and get back to the group at their next Bible Study.

That week, the woman called a silversmith and made an appointment to
watch him at work. She didn't mention anything about the reason for
her interest beyond her curiosity about the process of refining
Silver.

As she watched the silversmith, he held a piece of silver over the
fire and let it heat up. He explained that in refining silver, one
needed to hold the silver in the middle of the fire where the flames
were hottest as to burn away all the impurities.

The woman thought about God holding us in such a hot spot; then she
thought again about the verse that says: 'He sits as a refiner and
purifier of silver.' She asked the silversmith if it was true that he
had to sit there in front of the fire the whole time the silver was
being refined.

The man answered that yes, he not only had to sit there holding the
silver, but he had to keep his eyes on the silver the entire time it
was in the fire. If the silver was left a moment too long in the
flames, it would be destroyed.

The woman was silent for a moment. Then she asked the silversmith,
'How do you know when the silver is fully refined?'

He smiled at her and answered, 'Oh, that's easy -- when I see my image in it.'

December 23, 2020

December 23rd; St. John of Kanty

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FIRST READING

Malachi 3:1-4, 23-24

Thus says the Lord GOD:
Lo, I am sending my messenger to prepare the way before me; And suddenly there will come to the temple the LORD whom you seek, And the messenger of the covenant whom you desire. Yes, he is coming, says the LORD of hosts. But who will endure the day of his coming? And who can stand when he appears? For he is like the refiner’s fire, or like the fuller’s lye. He will sit refining and purifying silver, and he will purify the sons of Levi, Refining them like gold or like silver that they may offer due sacrifice to the LORD. Then the sacrifice of Judah and Jerusalem will please the LORD, as in the days of old, as in years gone by.

Lo, I will send you Elijah, the prophet, Before the day of the LORD comes, the great and terrible day, To turn the hearts of the fathers to their children, and the hearts of the children to their fathers, Lest I come and strike the land with doom.

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RESPONSORIAL PSALM

Psalm 25:4-5ab, 8-9, 10 and 14

R. (see Luke 21:28) Lift up your heads and see; your redemption is near at hand.

Your ways, O LORD, make known to me; teach me your paths, Guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my savior.

R. Lift up your heads and see; your redemption is near at hand.

Good and upright is the LORD; thus he shows sinners the way. He guides the humble to justice, he teaches the humble his way.

R. Lift up your heads and see; your redemption is near at hand.

All the paths of the LORD are kindness and constancy toward those who keep his covenant and his decrees. The friendship of the LORD is with those who fear him, and his covenant, for their instruction.

R. Lift up your heads and see; your redemption is near at hand.

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ALLELUIA

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

O King of all nations and keystone of the Church: come and save man, whom you formed from the dust!

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

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GOSPEL

Luke 1:57-66

When the time arrived for Elizabeth to have her child she gave birth to a son. Her neighbors and relatives heard that the Lord had shown his great mercy toward her, and they rejoiced with her. When they came on the eighth day to circumcise the child, they were going to call him Zechariah after his father, but his mother said in reply, “No. He will be called John.” But they answered her, “There is no one among your relatives who has this name.” So they made signs, asking his father what he wished him to be called. He asked for a tablet and wrote, “John is his name,” and all were amazed. Immediately his mouth was opened, his tongue freed, and he spoke blessing God. Then fear came upon all their neighbors, and all these matters were discussed throughout the hill country of Judea. All who heard these things took them to heart, saying, “What, then, will this child be? For surely the hand of the Lord was with him.”

Do Not Forget

The WORD today reminds me that I should not forget God when he gives me what I pray for. 

When we are praying for something, it is not unusual to bargain. We promise God something. We tell God we will do something. We say a lot in the hopes of receiving what we pray for. We say a lot and hope it will help us get our prayers. However, when we get what we pray for, we do not always keep our word. Today, I am reminded that we should. 

In the first reading, Hannah did not forget to thank God for answering her prayers for a son. She did not forget, and She eventually dedicated Samuel for the Lord. She did not keep him to herself, she did not forget God when her prayers were answered. She did not make excuses whatsoever. She glorified God by giving Him the one thing precious to her – her son. 

In the gospel, Mary said it explicitly. After being called blessed by Elizabeth, Mary responded with her canticle. My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord. All honour and glory was given back to God, as it should be. She did not boast that she is special, that she is blessed, that she was carrying the Son of God. Rather, she gave back everything to God. And she served God by visiting and serving Elizabeth despite her situation. She knew who she was and did not forget God’s part in everything. 

As we prepare for Christmas, may we never forget whom to glorify, whom the season is all about. In celebrating Christmas, may we not forget that amidst all the gift-giving, the virtual celebrations, and even with the problems of the pandemic, Jesus is the one whose birthday we are celebrating. In celebrating his birthday, may we STILL give him glory by how we act, by what we say and what we do. Christmas is not just about having fun, giving gifts to family and friends, and relaxing, having a good time. This is about Christ and his great love for us. May we also never forget to give to others who cannot give us back. 

What are the things I am praying for? What are the answers of God to these things? How do I respond when God gives me what I ask for? Do I forget him and move on with my life, or do I thank Him?

When God hears our prayers and this season, may we never forget Him. 

Father God,

Thank you for today. Thank you for another day to live. Thank you for another chance to know more about you. Thank you for the reminder. Lord, sorry for forgetting you. Sorry for ignoring you when things are well. And sorry for forgetting that this season is all about you. Help me live right. Help me live for you. Help me prepare for you. May I never forget you, and may I live in a way pleasing to and glorifying you always. Amen. 

In Christ,

-g-

Ps

See related reflection:

http://mysimplereflection.blogspot.com/2015/12/proclaim-his-greatness.html

December 22, 2020

December 22nd; St. Marguerite d’Youville

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FIRST READING

1 Samuel 1:24-28

In those days, Hannah brought Samuel with her, along with a three-year-old bull, an ephah of flour, and a skin of wine, and presented him at the temple of the LORD in Shiloh. After the boy’s father had sacrificed the young bull, Hannah, his mother, approached Eli and said: “Pardon, my lord! As you live, my lord, I am the woman who stood near you here, praying to the LORD. I prayed for this child, and the LORD granted my request. Now I, in turn, give him to the LORD; as long as he lives, he shall be dedicated to the LORD.” She left Samuel there.

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RESPONSORIAL PSALM

1 Samuel 2:1, 4-5, 6-7, 8abcd 

R. (see 1a) My heart exults in the Lord, my Savior.

“My heart exults in the LORD, my horn is exalted in my God. I have swallowed up my enemies; I rejoice in my victory.”

R. My heart exults in the Lord, my Savior.

“The bows of the mighty are broken, while the tottering gird on strength. The well-fed hire themselves out for bread, while the hungry batten on spoil. The barren wife bears seven sons, while the mother of many languishes.”

R. My heart exults in the Lord, my Savior.

“The LORD puts to death and gives life; he casts down to the nether world; he raises up again. The LORD makes poor and makes rich, he humbles, he also exalts.”

R. My heart exults in the Lord, my Savior.

“He raises the needy from the dust; from the dung heap he lifts up the poor, To seat them with nobles and make a glorious throne their heritage.”

R. My heart exults in the Lord, my Savior.

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ALLELUIA

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

O King of all nations and keystone of the Church: come and save man, whom you formed from the dust!

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

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GOSPEL

Luke 1:46-56

Mary said:

“My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord; my spirit rejoices in God my savior. for he has looked upon 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. He has mercy on those who fear him in every generation. He has shown the strength of his arm, and has scattered the proud in their conceit. He has cast down the mighty from their thrones and has lifted up the lowly. He has filled the hungry with good things, and the rich he has sent away empty. He has come to the help of his servant Israel for he remembered his promise of mercy, the promise he made to our fathers, to Abraham and his children for ever.”

Mary remained with Elizabeth about three months and then returned to her home.

Believe and Be Blessed

The WORD today reminds me that believing God's word will bless us. 

It is difficult to readily believe what others say. A lot of people lie, we have been hurt and disappointed a lot of times, and the situation seem so powerful that a lot of factors and a lot of things can happen that can prevent something from happening. However it, this should not be our attitude when it comes to God's word. 

We should always believe in God. 

In the gospel, we again see Mama Mary visiting Elizabeth. When Elizabeth heard Mama Mary's voice, the baby leaped in her womb. This is how blessed mama Mary is. And Elizabeth told her that she is blessed because she believed God's word would be fulfilled. 

Things were not easy for Mary. She was pregnant. She did not know what will happen to her. Yet she travelled to see and serve Elizabeth. She had faith that God's word would be fulfilled and that God will take care of her. And God did. 

God needs our faith in Him. 

Mama Mary showed great faith in God. She served him by serving others. She trusted in Him even if there were a lot of questions and concerns. And God rewarded her for that. We should also have this attitude. We should also believe and trust in God no matter what the situation may be. We should have faith in God. And we should continue loving and serving Him no matter what situation we may be in. God rewarded Mama Mary and she was used mightily because of this. Because she believed. Because she had faith. 

Similar to our situation with covid, we are worried like Mama Mary. We have things on our mind. However, we can still help others. We can still serve others. We just need to trust in God and so what we can to spread his love.

Do I have faith in God? Do I believe in God’s word, especially when things are tough? What prevents me from believing in God when things are tough and situations are challenging? How has God proven his love and provisions for me? 

May we learn to trust and have faith in God no matter what the situation may be. 

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 the reminder. Lord, sorry for the times I doubt you. Sorry for the times I let the situation weigh me down. Sorry for the times I don't have enough faith in you. Help me be like Mama Mary who trusted in you no matter how tough the situation may be. May my faith be bigger than my fears. I have faith in you. I believe in you. Use me mightily for your kingdom. Amen. 

Blessed Week!

In Christ,

-g-

December 21, 2020

December 21st; St. Peter Canisius

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FIRST READING

Songs 2:8-14

Hark! my lover–here he comes springing across the mountains, leaping across the hills. My lover is like a gazelle or a young stag. Here he stands behind our wall, gazing through the windows, peering through the lattices. My lover speaks; he says to me, “Arise, my beloved, my dove, my beautiful one, and come! “For see, the winter is past, the rains are over and gone. The flowers appear on the earth, the time of pruning the vines has come, and the song of the dove is heard in our land. The fig tree puts forth its figs, and the vines, in bloom, give forth fragrance. Arise, my beloved, my beautiful one, and come!

“O my dove in the clefts of the rock, in the secret recesses of the cliff, Let me see you, let me hear your voice, For your voice is sweet, and you are lovely.”

or:

Zephaniah 3:14-18a

Shout for joy, O daughter Zion! Sing joyfully, O Israel! Be glad and exult with all your heart, O daughter Jerusalem! The LORD has removed the judgment against you, he has turned away your enemies; The King of Israel, the LORD, is in your midst, you have no further misfortune to fear. On that day, it shall be said to Jerusalem: Fear not, O Zion, be not discouraged! The LORD, your God, is in your midst, a mighty savior; He will rejoice over you with gladness, and renew you in his love, He will sing joyfully because of you, as one sings at festivals.

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RESPONSORIAL PSALM

Psalm 33:2-3, 11-12, 20-21

R. (1a; 3a) Exult, you just, in the Lord! Sing to him a new song.

Give thanks to the LORD on the harp; with the ten-stringed lyre chant his praises. Sing to him a new song; pluck the strings skillfully, with shouts of gladness.

R. Exult, you just, in the Lord! Sing to him a new song.

But the plan of the LORD stands forever; the design of his heart, through all generations. Blessed the nation whose God is the LORD, the people he has chosen for his own inheritance.

R. Exult, you just, in the Lord! Sing to him a new song.

Our soul waits for the LORD, who is our help and our shield, For in him our hearts rejoice; in his holy name we trust.

R. Exult, you just, in the Lord! Sing to him a new song.

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ALLELUIA

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

O Emmanuel, our King and Giver of Law: come to save us, Lord our God!

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

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GOSPEL

Luke 1:39-45

Mary set out in those days and traveled to the hill country in haste to a town of Judah, where she entered the house of Zechariah and greeted Elizabeth. When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the infant leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth, filled with the Holy Spirit, cried out in a loud voice and said, “Most blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb. And how does this happen to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? For at the moment the sound of your greeting reached my ears, the infant in my womb leaped for joy. Blessed are you who believed that what was spoken to you by the Lord would be fulfilled.”

Continue to Prepare

The WORD today reminds me that I should continue to prepare for Christmas. 

For weeks, we have been preparing for Christmas, and how fast time flies, we are now on the last Sunday before Christmas, we are now on the fourth Sunday of advent. God has been telling us how we can prepare and that we should serve and proclaim him in this world. now the question is, how are we responding to his messages?

The gospel story is a familiar one. We also see the effect of what having a relationship with God would bring. We see the effect of preparing our hearts. Mama Mary was told what was about to happen. What God wanted to happen. Of course she had a lot of questions, but she remained firm in faith. She still said yes and submitted to God's will. And after, she visited her pregnant cousin and served her. We see how her mere presence brings God to others. This is what we should aim as well - to bring God to others with our presence. 

We should continue to prepare for God, so we can have faith and relationship to God as Mama Mary. We should prepare and work on our relationship with God not just for Christmas, but always. We should always declare God through our life. By our words. By our actions. 

Do I respond positively to God’s message? Do I put things in the proper perspective? Am I making him the center of the celebration, the reason for the season? OR am I still busy buying and sending gifts, being annoyed by the traffic and that Christmas this year is different, that I forget the reason why we are celebrating Christmas in the first place? How can I prepare more for Christmas, especially during this pandemic? 

May we be wiling to let God enter our lives, and prepare for Him as we commemorate his birth, and for always after it. 

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 knowing me, for reaching out to me, for giving me a long time to prepare, for you know it will take time. Lord, sorry for not doing my best to prepare. Sorry for being busy and distracted. Sorry for not making this about you. help me make the most out of the preparation time you are giving me, and help me make this season a really meaningful one. May I continue to prepare and may I continue to let you into my life and work on my relationship with you.  Amen.

Blessed Sunday!

In Christ,

-g-

December 20, 2020

4th Sunday of Advent; St. Dominic of Silos

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FIRST READING

2 Samuel 7:1–5, 8b–12, 14a, 16

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

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

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RESPONSORIAL PSALM

Psalm 89:2–3, 4–5, 27, 29 (2a)

R. Forever I will sing the goodness of the Lord.

The promises of the LORD I will sing forever; through all generations my mouth shall proclaim your faithfulness. For you have said, “My kindness is established forever”; in heaven you have confirmed your faithfulness.

R. Forever I will sing the goodness of the Lord.

“I have made a covenant with my chosen one, I have sworn to David my servant: forever will I confirm your posterity and establish your throne for all generations.”

R. Forever I will sing the goodness of the Lord.

“He shall say of me, ‘You are my father, my God, the rock, my savior.’ Forever I will maintain my kindness toward him, and my covenant with him stands firm.”

R. Forever I will sing the goodness of the Lord.

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SECOND READING

Romans 16:25–27

Brothers and sisters:
To him who can strengthen you, according to my gospel and the proclamation of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery kept secret for long ages but now manifested through the prophetic writings and, according to the command of the eternal God, made known to all nations to bring about the obedience of faith, to the only wise God, through Jesus Christ be glory forever and ever. Amen.

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ALLELUIA

Luke 1:38

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord. May it be done to me according to your word.

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

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GOSPEL

Luke 1:26–38

The angel Gabriel was sent from God to a town of Galilee called Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man named Joseph, of the house of David, and the virgin’s name was Mary. And coming to her, he said, “Hail, full of grace! The Lord is with you.” But she was greatly troubled at what was said and pondered what sort of greeting this might be. Then the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God.”

“Behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall name him Jesus. He will be great and will be called Son of the Most High, and the Lord God will give him the throne of David his father, and he will rule over the house of Jacob forever, and of his kingdom there will be no end.” But Mary said to the angel, “How can this be, since I have no relations with a man?” And the angel said to her in reply, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. Therefore the child to be born will be called holy, the Son of God. And behold, Elizabeth, your relative, has also conceived a son in her old age, and this is the sixth month for her who was called barren; for nothing will be impossible for God.” Mary said, “Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord. May it be done to me according to your word.” Then the angel departed from her.