Saturday, June 30, 2007

When Faith Is Enough

Genesis 18:1-15
Luke 1:46-50, 53-55
Matthew 8:5-17

“Lord, I am not worthy to have you enter under my roof; only say the word and my servant will be healed.” - Matthew 8:8

Her mouth is full of sores, an allergic reaction to a cheap and less known brand of toothpaste. She is jobless and cannot afford her usual brand of toothpaste. For a week, she bears the pain. Her sister offers to bring her to the doctor.

She agrees, but on the morning of her appointment with the doctor, she attends the morning Mass. She surrenders everything to the Lord - her search for a job, her present illness, her children, her husband.

During the consecration, she feels a different kind of peace. And when she utters the words, “Lord, I am not worthy to receive you, but only say the word, and I shall be healed,” she once more puts her entire life in God’s hands.

She lines up for communion, receives the Body of Christ, and as soon as she returns to her seat, a warm feeling envelops her. In her heart, she knows God is healing her that very moment.

She goes home, instead of proceeding to the doctor’s clinic. Her sores are gone. Her faith has healed her. Tess VA.

Reflection: Do you trust God’s word, enough to bank on it in times of hardship?

Lord, strengthen my faith in Your Word.

First Martyrs of the Church of Rome, pray for us.

Friday, June 29, 2007

Righteous

Acts 12:1-11
Psalm 34:2-9
2 Timothy 4:6-8, 17:18
Matthew 16:13-19

I have competed well; I have finished the race; I have kept the faith. - 2 Timothy 4:7

I was the one who made arrangements for my dads interment. I went to the office of the Memorial Park to settle our dues, which included the payment for the marker. I was asked by the office staff to choose the design for the marker - the font to be used, the layout and epitaph. The staff showed me a list of possible epitaphs but they were so common and ordinary. She told me that I could make my own.

It took me several weeks before I was able to choose the perfect epitaph for my dad’s marker. I wanted it to be special - one that would best described how he lived his life. Out of the many Bible verses, I chose the verse from 2 Timothy 4:7. I didn’t understand then why I keep coming back the this verse.

These were the words spoken by Paul as he neared the end of his life. Paul had been faithful to his call. He faced his death calmly, knowing he would be rewarded in heaven. My dad may not be like Paul but I can confidently say that he had lived a righteous life.

Before I forget. Today’s second reading was also the same reading on the day my father died - June 29, 2004. Today is his third death anniversary. Judith C.

Reflection: Are you keeping the faith?

When I reach the end of the road, may I look back and be confident that I lived a righteous life.

Sts. Peter and Paul, apostles and martyrs, pray for us.

Thursday, June 28, 2007

Still Listening

Genesis 16:1-12, 15-16
Psalm 106:1-5
Matthew 7:21-29 or John 17:20-26

“…anyone who hears these words of mine and acts accordingly is like a wise man.” - Matthew 7:24

One of my favorite Christian bands, Third Day, sang a song called “Still Listening.” My favorite line in the song is “I thought I heard you shout, but then I figured out that all along You’re whispering to me… and I’m still listening.”

The song is about looking for God all over the place and not finding Him, until you listen to the quiet whisper in your heart to hear His voice. I like the picture that this paints - that God chooses to whisper more than to shout.

Because I’m a loud person, I’m used to loud voices. I keep envisioning God as the God portrayed on TV - a big voice thundering the heaven, the kind that would make your knees tremble and cause you to obey at once. Imagining Him whispering is hard! God, can’t you just shout it out?

Maybe God chooses to whisper because He knows it would be hard to compete with all the loud things I’ve surrounded myself with. Maybe He knows that I need a lesson on listening. And maybe He knows that if He whispers to my heart, it would be the voice I would be obeying. Tina M.

Let us learn to be silent enough to hear God’s whisper.

Today I will be quiet, just listening for Your whisper.

St. Irenaeus, bishop martyr, pray for us.

Wednesday, June 27, 2007

God Is At Work

Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18
Psalm 105:1-4, 6-9
Matthew 7:15-20

“Every tree that does not bear good fruit will be cut down and thrown into the fire.” - Matthew 7:19

“Are we going to have a prayer meeting on Monday, Ma’am Tess?” My officemates asked. “Let’s just have a short prayer and then proceed with the business meeting,” I replied.

It was a test.

They’ve been used to having first-Monday-of-the-month prayer meetings for more than three years now. But the number of attendees had been dwindling in the past months., despite the fact that the meetings are held during office hours. Participation of those who attend seemed lukewarm.

I conducted a survey, and the results revealed that majority still want to continue with the monthly prayer meetings. I organized ministries to handle the different functions. Many volunteered. There were suggestions on how to improve the quality of our prayer meetings.

It was so clear that the Lord still had work to do in our office. “Lord, let your work bear fruit,” I prayed as I offered myself to be used as His instrument. Often, that’s all He asks of us. Tess VA.

Reflection: Even if things seem hopeless, God is at work. Just trust.

Lord, help me to always believe that You are present in everything and in everyone, doing Your work silently.

St. Cyril of Alexandria, bishop confessor, pray for us.

Tuesday, June 26, 2007

Lot

Genesis 13:2, 5-18
Psalm 15:2-5
Matthew 7:6, 12-14

Lot looked upon and saw… - Genesis 13:10

I remember having this discussion with a classmate in Social Services several years ago. We were grappling with how different groups “package” religion, its core message of salvation and its promises. Of course, Christianity was one of the more prominent topics.

He went on saying that, on one hand, there are poverty-fixated groups who advocate shedding yourself of all material things. These groups see money and wealth as evil and will do anything to smell filthy and identify themselves with the poor - given that heavenly rewards and riches await them n the next life.

On the other hand, you have the “prosperity preachers” who are so hung up on receiving God’s blessing that all they do is pray for ir and do nothing.

Lot obviously was a man who thought of himself first. Without considering how his valley choice would later be a bane given the lifestyles of his neighbors, he left Abraham with the rugged hill country. His greed and selfishness kept him from putting his family’s welfare and safety first.

Let’s start and our relationship with God. Once we have gotten this act together, a genuine desire for prosperity to enable us to alleviate poverty will come naturally. Then I guess the discussion on a rich or poor gospel will be rendered pointless. Roy M.

Reflection: What really matters to you?

Make us wealthy, Lord, in the things that really matter.

St. Josemaria Escriva de Balaguer, priest, pray for us.

Monday, June 25, 2007

Projections

Genesis 12:1-9
Psalm 33:12-13, 18-19, 20, 22
Matthew 7:1-5

“Why do you notice the splinter in your brother’s eye, but do not perceive the wooden beam in your own eye?” - Matthew 7:3

“Projection, your honor!”

My friend, who works as a facilitator for psycho-spiritual seminars, humorously and teasingly drops this statement whenever he catches other friends venting about other people. You see, projection is one of those things we unconsciously do when we criticize those around us. Not in every instance, of course, but many times we “project” so many of our own insecurities on other people. At some level, what we don’t like about other people are what we don’t like about ourselves.

My friend calls perpetuating this kind of negativity as doing the “ABCs” - accusing, blaming and criticizing. These are common and easy scapegoats for the things that go wrong with our lives. It’s always easier to blame external circumstances than it is to realize that our lives are essentially the products of our choices. We point fingers at the traffic, the government, our bosses, our parents, our co-workers, the dog, the list goes on and on… It’s always something or somebody else’s fault, and therefore somebody else’s responsibility. Let us remember that responsibility for one’s actions is a mark of a true Christian. Cotics C.

Reflection: Have you been doing the ABCs? Your life is a product of your choice. Choose well!

Lord, help me know myself. Help me discover You by finding myself.

Sy. William of Monte Vergine, abbot confessor, pray for us.

Sunday, June 24, 2007

What Drives You?

Isaiah 49:1-6
Psalm 139:1-3, 13-5
Acts 13:22-26
Luke 1:57-66, 80

“What, then, will this child be?” - Luke 1:66

This is a true story. A young medical intern had the opportunity to observe an actual appendectomy procedure. This was performed by a doctor-surgeon who had been in the medical profession for a long time. After the surgery, the intern quizzically asked the doctor, “Doc, how come you removed the patient’s appendix when it didn’t look inflamed? It seems to me that this is not a case of appendicitis.” Not bothered by her question, the doctor replied, “You’re still very young and don’t know a lot of things. You need to learn the ropes regarding how to earn money in order for you to survive in this profession.

When we were little children, we had our dreams of becoming somebody, someday. We dreamt of becoming doctors, nurses, lawyers, accountants, teachers, policemen and even the President of the Philippines. Some made their dreams come true. Others may have taken a different path but still became successful in their chosen fields.

Whatever we have become, the question still remains. Are we living up to our names and titles in our respective professions? Have we been faithful to our duties and our missions? Do we strive to be the exception rather than the norm? What drives you? Only you and God know the answer. Judith C.

Reflection: Are your inner drives in tune with the Lord’s drive for you?

May I always remain true to Your calling for me.

St. John the Baptist, martyr, pray for us.

Saturday, June 23, 2007

Simple Logic

2 Corinthians 12:1-10
Psalm 34:8-13
Matthew 6:24-34

“Aren’t you worth much more than birds.” - Matthew 6:26

I lay on a mattress on the floor of my empty condo having “renter’s remorse.” Earlier that day, I had just signed a one-year contract to rent this one-bedroom unit., Alone in the darkness and spending my first night on my own, anxiety began to creep in.

What if I can’t sustain the expenses?

What if I get unforeseen costs that I wasn’t able to factor into my monthly budget?

What if I lost my other sources of income?

What if…?

The questions were flooding like monsoon rain when an overpowering thought interrupted the barrage.

The Lord has never failed you even when you had other people you could depend on. Why should He abandon you now when you’re on your own?

Immediately, God’s stillness invaded my heart and mind. And I fell into a peaceful sleep that first night.

When you’re afraid, uncertain, doubtful that the good you expect will indeed come to pass, just stop and think for a moment. if God takes care to feed the birds, why would He allow you to go hungry? It wouldn’t make sense, right?

Sometimes, faith is nothing but simple logic. Rissa S.

Reflection: Are you glad to be human?

Your provision, Lord, knows no bounds.

St. Joseph Cafasso, confessor, pray for us.

Friday, June 22, 2007

The Right Question

2 Corinthians 11:18, 21-30
Psalm 34:2-7
Matthew 6:19-23

treasures… - Matthew 6:21

Something from an audio book by Jim Roth made an impact on me. He said, “Ask the right questions - and you improve the quality of your life!” In today’s Gospel (Matthew 6:21), I ask, “What are these treasures in heaven? Are they heavenly points? Good graces with ‘Big Brother?’ Knowledge of the Bible?” I’m sure that it’s intangible.

Or is it?

Looking back, I realized that my early involvement in my Christian community enabled me to know what these treasures are.

They’re the people whom I’ve touched and somehow brought closer to God. It was the reason why I studied every week - even when there was no exam approaching - so I could participate in all the choir practices, prayer meetings core group meetings plus all the gimmicks. It was to give time to anybody in need of a listening ear. Jomar H.

Reflection: How about you, what takes up most of your time? What is your treasure?

Teach me to plant my roots in things that matter and are significant, Lord.

St. Paulinus of Noia and St. Thomas More, bishop confessor and martyr, pray for us.

Thursday, June 21, 2007

To Each His Own

2 Corinthians 11:1-11
Psalm 111:1-4, 7-8
Matthew 6:7-15

But I do not think I am in the least inferior to those “super-apostles.” I may not be a trained speaker, but I do have knowledge.” - 2 Corinthians 11:5-6

I would always listen intently and watch in awe each time my favorite speaker, Lou, visits our branch. What’s hot to like about her? She’s intelligent, an exceptional lawyer, a gifted evangelist, a prolific writer, a true servant of God. In short, she’s my “Idol” (next to Jesus, that is) and I truly admire and respect her.

In all honestly, I wish it were only all good and positive emotions she evoked in me. There were moments when the Enemy sowed the seeds of envy and insecurity. The devil would craftily whisper how I can never be like her in any way, how I can never even come close to becoming as good a leader, a speaker and a writer as she is.

Paul’s vote of confidence in being an apostle of Christ reminds me that we all have been blessed by God with knowledge, skills, talents and every good thing we need to fulfill His will for our lives. Just like a printer who keeps on looking sideways at his opponents can slow him down and cause him to lose the race, so too can comparing ourselves with other cause us to lose sight of the mission He has set out for us. Dina P.

Reflection: Stop comparing yourself with others. Instead, focus your energies on how you can become more like Jesus.

Lord, give me the grace to appreciate the gifts you have bestowed on me to fulfill Your will in my life. May I forever be thankful for these and use them to bring You glory. Amen.

St. Aloysius Gonzaga, confessor, pray for us.

Wednesday, June 20, 2007

The Unexpected Gift

2 Corinthians 9:6-11
Psalm 112:1-4, 9
Matthew 6:1-6, 16-18

He scatters abroad, he gives to the poor, his righteousness endures forever. - 2 Corinthians 9:9

There are two kinds of givers. One who gives when asked, and the other one who goes out of his way and finds ways to help. I am so blessed to have met the second type of giver.

One day, an officemate handed me a bulky envelope with a note saying: “This is a gift from God. You never asked for it. God simply finds a way to show His people, His love and generosity. I just happen to be the instrument in letting you know He is holding you in His arms right now. “I couldn’t help but cry when I opened the envelope. It contained P50,000 in cold cash! It was more than the amount I needed to save me from financial distress.

Gifts given from a pure heart are a real blessing. They let another person know that you care, and they pave the way for a deeper relationship. It also gives us an opportunity to inspire people to pass on the good deed to others in need. Indeed, true joy comes to us not from what we own but from what we are able to give to others.

I kept my officemate’s note in my purse as a memoir of God’s generosity and love, and as my constant reminder to also share with others what I have. Jane G.

Reflection: Do we give only when it’s convenient?

Make ma a giver, Lord, not just of material wealth, but of all the things that make life worth living.

St. Silverius, pope martyr, pray for us.

Tuesday, June 19, 2007

Love And Prayers

2 Corinthians 8:1-9
Psalm 146:2, 5-9
Matthew 5:43-48

Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you. - Matthew 5:44

After the demo of my lesson plan, my teacher started criticizing every step I took with gusto - blow after blow after blow. There was not one good thing she saw. Although she did not succeed in shattering my self-esteem, I felt a little peeved that she could not offer one word of encouragement.

The next class day, everything that the teacher said entered one ear and left the other. In one instance, I deliberately read something else quietly in my seat to keep from hearing what she was saying. I focused on my feelings - there was anger and hurt.

That night I prayed, I prayed for healing and, most of all, I prayed for my teacher. Before our next class I went to confession and settled with the Lord any grudge in my heart. But I also gave feedback to my teacher’s co-teacher in the class who was absent during my demo. I relayed to her that this teacher dealt with me the way she dealt with my two other classmates who had already stopped attending the class and had decided not to finish the course.

In our next class day, there was a marked change in my teacher’s attitude towards critiquing demo lessons! But most of all, I was able to smile at her again. The Lord’s formula for dealing with our “enemies” really works! Cristy G.

Reflection: Who needs prayer most? You or your enemies?

I pray for my enemies today, Lord. But most of all I pray for myself, that I may be able to pray with genuine love in my heart.

St. Romuald, abbot confessor, pray for us.

Monday, June 18, 2007

Being Like Nicole

2 Corinthians 6:1-10
Psalm 98:1-4
Matthew 5:38-42

“Give to the one who asks of you, and do not turn your back on one who wants to borrow.” - Matthew 5:42

The teachers of Nicole, my precocious six-year-old granddaughter, are all one in saying that she is the Ambassador of Peace in class. Here’s one clear example why.

One time, her two classmates, were fighting over a toy. The bigger boy had the upper hand and was able to get the toy, not because he had bigger hands, but more because he had no qualms about hitting his opponent on the head with a book!

Nicole gently pulled the sobbing boy to a corner, and very quietly talked to him. The teacher overheard her saying, “It’s not good to hit him also. You just tell him not to do it again. Come, you shake hands so you will be friends again.”

Sometimes, kids are better followers of God’s Word! (Of course I mean kids like Nicole and not her troublesome classmates.) Children often have a purer understanding of right and wrong, a fuller meaning of obedience and simpler way of looking at chaos. We adults often complicate matters too much. We would be better off being like little children to enter the kingdom of God. Chelle C.

Reflection: What kind of child are you?

You call us Your children. Teach us to be like the children that You will welcome into Your kingdom.

Sts. Mark and Marcellian, martyrs, pray for us.

Sunday, June 17, 2007

My Christian Dior

2 Samuel 12:7-10, 13
Psalm 32:1-2, 5, 7, 11
Galatians 2:16, 19-21
Luke 7:36 - 8:3

She dried his feet with her hair, kissed them, and poured perfume on them. - Luke 7:38

On our first Christmas together as husband and wife. Ed gave me a bottle of Christian Dior perfume as a Christmas gift. It was my favorite perfume. Not only was it an expensive brand, it really had this sweet, ritzy smell. I felt like an elegant, luxurious woman every time I wore it. I so loved by Christian Dior that I used it sparingly so it would last lost, even as I read somewhere that you must use perfume as fast as you can because fragrances have a short shelf life.

When finally I used up the perfume - after a year ago - I kept the bottle because of its sentimental value.

As I read today’s Gospel about the woman who poured perfume on the feet of Jesus. I ask myself, would have I done the same? Pour out my Christian Dior on the Lord’s feet? In all honesty, my answer is yes. The Lord is much, much more valuable that any bottle of Christian Dior.

Now, I go through my other possessions, things and people I value most. I study them one by one and ask myself what I could give up if ever the Lord asks me to do so.

In all honesty, I pray the Lord won’t ask so much of me! Cynthia S.

Reflection: What will you not do for the Lord?

Lord, make me a sweet smelling offering to You!

St. Gregory Barbarigo, bishop confessor, pray for us.

Saturday, June 16, 2007

A Mother's Love

Isaiah 61:9-11 (or 2 Corinthians 5:14-21)
1 Samuel 2:1, 4-8 (or Psalm 103:1-4, 9-12)
Luke 2:41-51 or Matthew 5:33-37

When they did not find him, they went back to Jerusalem to look for him. - Luke 2:45

Flora has not spoken to her son Andy for more than 10 years. For her, it was a matter of self-preservation. Every time Andy shouted at her, or shunned her attention, or rejected something she offered, she built up the wall around her heart to protect herself against the hurt. In time, the wall became impenetrable, and although they lived in the same house, they barely even looked at one another.

That is, until the day she received a call from the hospital saying that Andy was involved in a serious accident. Steeling herself against further rejection, she went inside his hospital room to find that he already had several visitors. When Andy saw her, he said to the others, “This is my mother,” and that was all it took to melt her hardened heart.

I realize that it’s not just Flora, but all of us who, in one way or another, choose to remember past hurts, false first impressions, malicious gossips, and various negative traits of others. May we learn to have a heart like Mary’s, treasuring memories that build up, rather than tear down, our relationships. Cecille L.

Reflection: Are the treasures you keep in you heart making you rich, or are they weighing you down?

Mama Mary, teach us how to have a heart full of love for your Son and for each other.

St. John Francis Regis, confessor, pray for us.

Friday, June 15, 2007

Hope Does Not Disappoint

Ezekiel 34:11-16
Psalm 23:1-6
Romans 5:5-11
Luke 15:3-7

This hope does not disappoint us… - Romans 5:5

I was chatting online with a friend when I first read the Bible verse: “Hope does not disappoint.” It struck me as beautiful and I shared it with my friends.

“But it does! Hope disappoints! It causes you to have expectations and you get shot down,” she explained. And I realized we were talking about two different things. She was talking about hope in the things of this world; the line was referring to hope borne out of our experience of God.

I am no stranger to losing hope. For most of my life, believed that the only way to survive was to avoid situations where I could get hurt. I put up near-insurmountable walls around me so I wouldn’t get too attached to anyone or anything. What I didn’t realize earlier on was that letdowns are part of life and should be accepted with an open heart.

This conviction came during an particularly low day, when I was surprised by a sudden realization: No matter what happens to me, God will never allow me to be unhappy for too long. It is almost impossible to feel bad after a thought like that.

Hope - in a faithful God - does not disappoint. Anna dG.

Reflection: Is your faith still lacking?

Strengthen my hope; strengthen my faith.

St. Germaine Cousin, virgin, pray for us.

Thursday, June 14, 2007

Real Leaders

2 Corinthians 3:15 - 4:1, 3-6
Psalm 85:9-14
Matthew 5:20-26

…but whenever a person turns to the Lord, the veil is removed… - 2 Corinthians 3:16

Who are those in your power group deemed “mature” enough to be future leaders?

Those you always see at the meetings?
Those who report having regular Scripture and prayer times?
Those who give tithes every month?
Those who volunteer for regular service?

Let me tell you about this great girl I know names Lia. She was never chosen to be a leader by her group. You see, her ailing mother prevented her from attending meetings and volunteering for service. She prayed every day and read the Bible too, though sometimes only for two to five minutes, when she had time to squeeze it in. As the sole breadwinner, she tried to tithe regularly but often found she had too little for her family’s needs.

I believe she was picked a leader in the eyes of the Lord. She was a leading example of a Christian who persevered in spite of what life dealt her. She didn’t have the visible marks of a life of piety nor did she meet the “standards” set by the group she belonged to. But she met the Lord’s standards without difficulty.

If we strive to become scribes… working to keep the letter of the Law… we will please the Lord a lot. But if we strive to be more like Lia, then the Lord has lifted the veil and made us reach for something beyond the visible. Victoria L.

Reflection: Are you ready to see beyond the visible?

Help me see that what You desire isn’t always what people dictate it to be. Lead me in the Law of Love.

St. Methodius I, Patriarch of Constantinople, pray for us.

Wednesday, June 13, 2007

Letter Of Recommendation

2 Corinthians 3:4-11
Psalm 99:5-9
Matthew 5:17-19

“You are our letter, written in our hearts… written not in ink but by the Spirit of the living God, not on tablets of stone but on tablets that are hearts of flesh.” - 2 Corinthians 3:2-3

When applying for a new job, some companies require applicants to secure character references from previous employers, former teachers or other persons in authority. This way, prospective employers will be given an insight into the applicant’s integrity, work ethics and overall performance.

So I began to wonder: What if God requires us to present to St. Peter a recommendation letter that will be the basis of whether or not we can enter the pearly gates of heaven? If so, who then would write a recommendation letter for me?

In today’s first reading, Paul claims that the Corinthians whom they’ve been evangelizing are his “recommendation letter.” Like him, the divine recommendation we seek comes from the countless people whom Jesus has given us to love and serve. These people whom we may have helped, inspired or touched in big or small ways will testify on our behalf by the very lives they also live for the Lord.

There is, more importantly, Jesus who lovingly placed upon us His seal of approval. Striving to grow in His image and likeness is our best character reference of all. Dina P.

Reflection: Do we strive to secure the best character reference by striving to become more like Jesus?

Lord, mold and recreate me that I may grow more in the likeness of Your Son.

St. Anthony of Padua and Lisbon, confessor, pray for us.

Tuesday, June 12, 2007

Let's DOH It!

2 Corinthians 1:18-22
Psalm 119:129-133, 135
Matthew 5:13-16

“…if salt loses its taste…” - Matthew 5:13

I remember Dr. Juan Flavier saying, “Let’s DOH it” in that popular TV ad when he was still the secretary at the Department of Health.

That particular ad has stuck in my mind until now. Not only was it made funny by Dr. Flavier, its catch phrase was… well… catchy!

It always made me think of the proverbial saying, “Practice what you preach.” Indeed, we should do what we say in order for people to believe in us. In short, if you’ve promised it, then do it. Not practicing what you preach would be like picking up a packet of salt from the grocery shelf, only to find that when you use it in your food, it had been mislabeled - it’s not salt at all but sugar!

Give honor to your words. We should set good examples for others as the “salt and light” for all the mankind. Henry Y.

Reflection: How many times have I broken my promise by failing to do what I said?

Lord, help me remember to do the things that I’m supposed to do according to Your will.

St. John of Sahagun, conferssor, pray for us.

Monday, June 11, 2007

Provision

Acts 11:21-26; 13:1-3
Psalm 98:1-6
Matthew 10:7-13

The laborer deserves his keep. - Matthew 10:10

When David (not his real name) started preaching, everyone could tell that he had the potential to become really famous. He had a young wife and two very young children. They lived in a poor part of town and had few material possessions. However, as his reputation for being a good speaker spread, he was slowly able to start building his own house, get a second-hand car, and live more comfortably. When this happened, tongues started wagging.

Why does he ask for a love offering when he gives a talk? Isn’t it that the Word of God should be preached without cost? He has become materialistic! Negosyo na yan!

These were the less hurtful comments he heard. The Gospel today vindicates David, I believe.

The Lord understand that we have everyday needs. And He provides for them. And because He is David’s boss, He lavishes him with the greatest benefits.

Of course, there are those who have abused the work of the Lord for their own purposes. Only the Lord knows, however, who the are. If you think you do, you may be wrong. Don’t you think we should leave all judgment to him and instead focus on how we can be His laborers where we are called? Maybe then we will deserve our keep. Victoria L.

Reflection: Are we quick to judge the motives of others?

Provide, Lord, for Your workers. And guide them well that they may not abuse Your generosity that You channel through others.

St. Barnabas, apostle and martyr, pray for us.

Sunday, June 10, 2007

What They Say About The Eucharist

Genesis 14:18-20
Psalm 110:1-4
1 Corinthians 11:23-26
Luke 9:11-17

“This is my body that is for you. Do this is remembrance of me.” - 1 Corinthians 11:24

“Everything in man should halt in awe. Let all the world quake and let heaven exult when Christ the Son of the Living God is there on the altar in the hands of the priest.” - St. Francis of Assisi

“I wish now to affirm that I believe in the Real Presence of Jesus Christ in this Sacrament, truly God and truly man, the Son of God, the Son of the Virgin Mary. This I believe and hold for true and certain.” - St. Thomas Aquinas (on his deathbead)

“We cannot separate our lives from the Eucharist; the moment we do, something breaks.” - Mother Theresa

“Eucharist is… a foretaste of the fullness of joy promised by Christ… it is in some way the anticipation of heaven, the ‘pledge of future glory’.” - Pope John Paul II (Encyclical Letter Ecclesia de Eucharistia)

“Amen.” Alvin B.

Reflection: When you receive Holy Communion, do you feel and believe in the real presence of Jesus? Receive Him today.

“Down in adoration falling; Lo! The sacred Host we hail.”

St. Getulius and Companion, martyrs, pray for us.

Saturday, June 9, 2007

I Offer My Life

Tobit 12:1, 5-15, 20
Tobit 13:2, 6, 7, 8
Mark 12:38-44

“But she from poverty, has contributed all she had her whole livelihood.” - Mark 12:44

Our parish has been undergoing construction for almost eight years now. Yup! You read it right. Eight years. In fact I think one of these days the finance committee might run out of fund raising activities. Initially the budget was P35 million, but since eight years have passed, it now costs P250 million to complete the whole project. At some point, I know that some of our parishioners have stopped donating for practical reasons. But some still continue donating as long as their names are announced before the final blessing or are mentioned in the parish bulletin for everyone to see.

A year ago, for the first time, I invested the last few bills in my wallet to buy a booklet for a fund raising activity. All I prayed for with all my heart was for the completion of our parish church, although we’d been constantly buying the same ticket every year. And guess what? We ended up winning one of the consolation prices - one sack of rice (first class)!

Well, God is good! Sure, that was my last money, but God has His ways of outgiving us. Marissa E.

Reflection: Trust in God’s provision. He never fails!

“What can we give that You have not given, and what do we have that is not already Yours? All we possess are these lives we’re living and that’s what we give to You Lord.” (from the song “I Offer My Life”)

St. Ephrem, deacon confessor, pray for us.

Friday, June 8, 2007

College At 63

Tobit 11:5-17
Psalm 146:1-2, 6-7, 8-9, 9-10
Mark 12:35-37

“The large crowd listened to him with delight.” - Mark 12:37

Whatever happened to this large crowd who was awed by His wit, fascinated by His miracles, and entertained by His nice stories? Never heard much about them. Some might even have been with those who shouted, “Crucify Him!”

This will happens today. Many are entertained by God’s Word from celebrity preachers and “feel good” bestselling books. Truth, however, is people can be delighted but still remain lost.

I read about a man in New York City who died at the age of 63 without ever having had a job. He spent his entire adult life in college. He had acquired so many academic degrees that they looked like the alphabet after his name.

Why? When he was a child, a wealthy relative died, naming him as a beneficiary in his will. It stated that he was to be given enough money to support him every year as long as he stayed in school.

By staying in school indefinitely he turned a technicality into a steady income for life - something his benefactor never intended. Unfortunately, he spent thousands of hours listening to professors and reading books but never “doing.” His knowledge never “worked.” - Jon E.

Reflection: Question: What has the Lord spoken to you about recently? What have you done about it?

Lord, we take delight in Your Word. May this transform us into your likeness so that You may be delighted when You look at us.

Blessed Mariam Thresia Chiramel Mankidian, virgin foundress, pray for us.

Thursday, June 7, 2007

The God Of Surprises

Tobit 6:11; 7:9-14; 8:4-7
Psalm 128:1-5
Mark 12:28-34

I have heard that this woman has been married seven times and that her husbands died in the bridal chambers. - Tobit 6:14

When I was nine-months pregnant, my husband, Obet, was so excited he didn’t accept any talk assignment just for me! He asked someone to get our car in tip-top shape so that when the baby was due, Dad would be ready.

Every night, we a 15-minute walk around our neighborhood to help “ease” my labor and have a normal delivery. In one of the those walks, Obet shared with me that it is the baby who decides the time when it wants to come out, so we kept on requesting Rob (still in my womb) not to come out till our doctor arrives from her vacation.

The day came. When our OB’s secretary told us that Doc has arrived, I experienced an uneasiness that continued to worsen. I experienced labor pains. Since the car was being fixed, Obet fetched a taxi to bring me to the hospital. After two grueling days of labor, Rob gloriously came out - by Caesarian section! He chose a meaningful birthday - it was Pentecost Sunday!

My labor experiences taught me that although we prepare, God continues to surprise us. God is God! We simply have to trust. Joie C.

Reflection: Do you feel you’re preparing in vain? Be ready for His surprise!

Do your task in due season, in His time God will reward you. (Sirach 51:30)

Venerable Thomas a Kempis, confessor, pray for us.

Wednesday, June 6, 2007

Living Life

Tobit 3:1-11, 16-17
Psalm 25:2-9
Mark 12:18-27

“He is not God of the dead but of the living.” - Mark 12:27

I was the next speaker at a youth retreat and had the chance to listen to the first year speaker - a good friend and a brilliant trainor, Jon Escoto. Among the many things I learned from him was that there are two things that can’t grow: The dead and the “plastic” things.

I reflected on his statement and realized that when I drowned myself with limiting beliefs, I became a “zombie,” moving but essentially dead. These were the times when I wasn’t really growing and had gnawing feelings of inner rottenness. (cf. Lufe 17:37, “Where there is a dead body, the vultures gather.”)

Worse, I was a “plastic” zombie. My secret title for myself was “Obet: the great pretender.” Fr. Eugene Kennedy was right when he said, “It is not what we show off but what we hide away that tells our truest story.” When I was wearing the mask of “macho man,” people smelled the strong stench of my insecurities.

Then I embraced Jesus: The way, the truth and the life (John 14:6). Because He is the way, I grew in strength with my daily crosses. Because He is the truth, I grew in acceptance of my own person. Because He is the life, I grew in gratefulness and generosity with my God-lent life.

Did I grow? Indeed! Only living and true things grow! Obet C.

Reflection: “The glory of God is a human being fully alive.” - St. Irenaeus

Lord, live within us that we may live fully alive!

St. Norbert, bishop confessor, pray for us.

Tuesday, June 5, 2007

To Give In Return

Tobit 2:9-14
Psalm 112:1-2, 7-9
Mark 12:13-17

“Repay to Caesar what belongs to Caesar and to God what belongs to God.” - Mark 12:17

I’ve had my own clinic for almost eight years now. I just had it renovated and was somewhat sentimental one day, looking at its newly painted walls, the shiny cabinet finishes, and purple and green accents.

“Thank You, Lord. You have given me so much more than I could ever ask for…” I whispered.

Indeed, if my office walls could speak, they would only tell of Divine Providence.

That is why I try to return what I can, first, by paying my taxes. A thriving practice is not common. Many doctors are taking up nursing nowadays, but my clinic has survived.

Second, I say my thanks by giving tithes - My ten percent or more.

I know the Lord cannot be outdone in generosity. His lavishness goes way beyond what I could ever give. Time and again, this has been proven. I give so little yet receive so much.

These are my small ways of giving. But I know if I am faithful and sincere, God knows my heart and honors my offering.

I’m sure you have your own story to tell about how giving to the Lord has blessed your life. Go back for it. Remember His faithfulness.

And don’t stop there. Let those memories inspire you to give in return. Lallaine G.

Reflection: Am I giving the Lord what He deserves?

Lord, convict me in generosity. Thank You that Your own generosity abounds in my life. Grant me the grace to truly give.

St. Boniface, bishop, martyr, pray for us.

Monday, June 4, 2007

One Paragraph Away

Tobit 1:1-2; 2:1-9
Psalm 112:1-6
Mark 12:1-12

“The store that the builders rejected has become the cornerstone.” - Mark 12:10

Rejection comes in many forms. But whatever form it may take, it still hurts. It took me two years to write my first book Happy Secrets to an Obedient Life. First, the publisher told me it should be written for Filipino readers and we Filipinos love to read short sentences. So I rewrote it. However, they told me that they couldn’t find my personal touch, so I was rejected a second time.

I told myself then than I would just stick to preaching, teaching and singing. I forgot my book for six months. But when I realized that Jesus was much more important than my pain, I opened my book again and rewrote it, adding some stories of my life. I also asked help from my friends to edit, design and critique my book. I was now accepting rejection, learning from it and using it to my advantage.

As of this writing, I am undertaking four religion textbooks for high school.

Yes, rejection hurts. But pain is needed for us to value what we strive for. Rejection also keeps our feet on the ground and makes us humble.

Therefore, do not give in to rejection. You might be one paragraph away from a best selling book. Arun G.

Reflection: How do you react to rejections?

Jesus, You are more important than my pain.

St. Francis Caracciolo, confessor, pray for us.

Sunday, June 3, 2007

No Tests?

Proverbs 8:22-31
Psalm 8:4-9
Romans 5:1-5
John 16:12-15

Not only that, but we even boast of our afflictions, knowing that affliction produces endurance… - Romans 5:3

Can you imagine going through school without ever taking exams?

“That would be heaven!” you might say. True, but do you think you would learn as much?

The purpose of having exams is to test our knowledge. It forces us to review and make sure that we understand and retain lessons.

It’s the same thing when it comes to the trials we encounter in life. When I was a baby Christian, my understanding of a victorious life in Christ meant that the Lord would shield me from suffering, sorrow, and disappointment. How wrong I was!

With that mistaken notion, you can just imagine how devastated I was when things didn’t go according to how I had prayed. When loved ones got sick… when family members died… when something our community had fervently prayed for and believed in didn’t materialize.

As I matured in my faith walk, I realized that troubles and trials were a necessary part of growing in the Lord. Devotional writer Oswald Chambers explains, “God does not give us overcoming life: He gives us life as we overcome. The strain is the strength.” Rissa S.

Reflection: “When written in Chinese, the word “crisis” is composed of two characters. One represents danger and the other one represents opportunity.” (John F. Kennedy)

Lord, I know that I will have trouble in this world. But I take heart because You have overcome the world. Amen.

Sts. Charles Lwanga and Companions, Ugandan Martyrs, pray for us.

Saturday, June 2, 2007

Rejecting Truth

Sirach 51:21-20
Psalm 19:8-11
Mark 11:27-33

“We do not know.” - Mark 11:33

You are driving along a dark lonely stretch of highway. A car honks repeatedly at you and the driver signals for you to stop because you have flat a tire, what would you do?

a. Pull over.
b. Speed up.
c. Slow down.

Honestly, I don’t know what the right answer is. None of the options sound right to me. Because if I pull over, I might be falling into a trap. If I speed up and my tire is really flat, I’d probably go into a tailspin. If I slow down, I’d give the second driver a better chance of harming me if he has evil intentions.

I can see at least one similarity between my thinking process and that of the teachers of the law. Both they and I obey the natural instinct of self-preservation. Each of us has that urge to stay alive and survive. Sometimes, we go to the extreme and live in denial of the truth in order to spare ourselves the pain, for example.

Defense mechanisms such as these are normal. However, when we act solely out of self-preservation, we rob ourselves of the beauty of honesty. When we are dishonest, we reject Jesus who is Truth. When we reject Truth, we harm ourselves mote than we harm others because we fail to grow into the people we were created to be. Victoria L.

Reflection: Do you want to grow?

Lord, help me to gain a healthy perspective on how to preserve myself and yet at the same time be a blessing to others.

Sts. Marcellinus and Peter, martyrs, pray for us.

Friday, June 1, 2007

You're Acceptable

Sirach 44:1, 9-13
Psalm 149:1-6, 9
Mark 11:11-26

“But you have made it a den of robbers.” - Mark 11:17

Unless you understand the background of why Jesus cleansed the Temple, you’ll never know its real meaning.

When Jesus cleansed the temple, was He telling us not sell candles, stampitas, and snacks outside churches? No, poor people need to sell there - to survive and feed their kids. Jesus cleansed the temple for a very different reason.

Here it is: The priests during that time had rules on what kind of animals you could sacrifice. It should be a certain size. A certain color. A certain look. If you came carrying your own animal, almost 100% of the time, it’d be rejected by the priests for this or that weakness. “It’s too short” or “It’s too thin.” or “It’s too dark..” So you’ll be forced to buy from the Temple store - owned by the priests themselves! And they were selling at 10 times the usual cost! It was really, really ugly.

Jesus drove them out because they were abusing the people. Not only with their greed, but with their terrible theology. They were preaching” You’re not acceptable to God. You’re too short, too thin, too dark, too weak…

When Jesus cleansed the temple, He was telling you, “I love you as you are - your weaknesses included.”

Wow. Isn’t Jesus wonderful? Bo S.

Reflection: Do you really believe that God accepts you, loves you, forgives you - weaknesses and all? Unless you do, you will never change.

Lord, drive out the thieves in my life who rob from me Your love!

St. Justin, martyr, pray for us.