The Meek Inherits the Land

Fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time 

01 February 2026

 

First Reading: Zephaniah 2:3; 3:12-13

Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 146:6-7, 8-9, 9-10

Second Reading: 1 Corinthians 1:26-31

Gospel: Matthew 5:1-12a

 

Reflection

By: Grace B. Madriñan

 

“Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the land” - Matthew 5:5

I have heard the Gospel about the sermon of the mount several times, but reading it more closely and intently this time made me pause for a question. How will the meek inherit the land? Why not the hardworking, or the strong can inherit the land instead? 

For me, meek is the last person qualified to inherit the land. Meek comes to me as quiet and submissive, how will a meek stand in front of a dominating opponent? Then thanks to an AI tool (artificial intelligence), I found the full definition of a meek person. It says:

"A meek person is gentle, quiet, and mild-mannered, often characterized by patience, humility, and a non-confrontational nature, willing to comply with others and putting up with wrongs without complaint, but it's not weakness; it's a controlled strength, like the gentleness of Christ, involving inner power and self-control rather than assertiveness or arrogance.”

I found the key words, “patience”, “humility”, “self-control”. God, therefore, favors those who are patient, humble and can control their temper. 

This reminds me of an instance when I almost lost my “meekness” last December. Our house is situated at the corner of two streets and I requested a delivery van to temporarily park in one of the sides to comfortably load the items. The two way street became one way and one of the bigger vans passing by cussed at us for causing obstruction. My initial reaction was to shout back. But seeing that the man is an elderly and handicapped, I later shouted back “Merry Christmas!” and signaled the delivery van to move back just to let them pass peacefully. I admit that my head is still fuming with rage to return the same foul words he said but I was glad that the Holy Spirit did not let me. 

I can actually win the argument with the old man but at what cost? I would disrespect an elderly person, inconvenience all incoming vehicles because neither of us will not give way, disrupting my neighbor’s peace, wasting energy and time. But when I gave in, I only lost 2 minutes and a bit of my pride. 

I realized then that hard work and skills may take you far but only patience, humility and self-control will get you through any obstacles. And the best part? You made our Father proud. 

Prayer

Father, forgive us of our shortcomings. Thank You for reminding us of what matters in the Kingdom of Heaven. Send us Your Holy Spirit to continue to accompany us on our daily struggles. Amen.

Called to Serve

Third Sunday in Ordinary Time 

25 January 2026

 

First Reading: Isaiah 8:23–9:3

Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 27:1, 4, 13-14

Second Reading: 1 Corinthians 1:10-13, 17

Gospel: Matthew 4:12-23

 

Reflection

By: Ma. Rosalina S. Flores

 

I joined The Manila Cathedral's Ministry of Lectors and Commentators in 2014. It was an answer to the prayer I never uttered. I remember a moment at the Immaculate Conception Parish in Tayuman, while attending Sunday Mass, when I thought, What if I were given the chance to proclaim the Word? And then, it happened. For almost 12 years now, I’ve had the privilege of serving as a lector and commentator.

God’s call truly unfolds as long as we keep saying “yes" to Him. From being an ordinary massgoer, to becoming a word proclaimer, to having been elected as ministry treasurer, and later appointed as ministry coordinator for two consecutive terms, it’s amazing to see how far God’s calling can take you.

In today’s Gospel, we hear how Jesus began His ministry, calling the apostles to help Him in His mission. He didn’t choose the powerful or the already capable, but rather, those who were willing to follow and cooperate. God’s calling is for everyone, not based on status or physical appearance, but on a heart that is open and ready to be led. Because God equips those He calls. The only requirement is a willing and trusting heart.

This 2026, after seven years of not recruiting new members, our ministry will welcome nine new lectors and commentators, two returning servants and seven newcomers. These nine have heard and responded to God’s call. We thank the Lord for new laborers in His vineyard.

I pray that no matter what mission we take, whether in the Church or our communities, may we always say and be committed to our “yes” to God.

Let us continue to serve with joy, bearing in mind that every act of service, no matter how small, is part of something greater, to spread His love, light, and salvation throughout the world.

 

Prayer

Lord, thank You for the gift of service. As we continue to serve You, help us to remain humble, being reminded that we belong to Your call. Amen.

Viva Santo Niño!

Feast of the Santo Niño

18 January 2026

 

First Reading: Isaiah 9:1-6

Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 97

Second Reading: Ephesians 1:3-6, 15-18

Gospel: Matthew 18:1-5, 10

 

Reflection

By: Ma. Rosalina S. Flores

 

Today, with special permission from the Holy See, we celebrate the feast day of the Santo Niño in various parts of the Philippines, most notably in Cebu and Tondo.

History tells us that the image of the Holy Child Jesus was the first religious image to arrive in the country, marking the beginning of Christianity among Filipinos. But beyond historical accounts, it is the firsthand, life-changing experiences of countless Filipinos that have made this devotion deeply popular and truly special.

Personally, I hold a deep reverence for the Santo Niño. This Holy Child has been present in my life since day one. From growing up in Tondo until the age of five, returning during my college years in 2007, and living there before moving to Bulacan in 2021, Tondo has always been home to me.

Despite the common misconception that Tondo is a rowdy place, I feel at peace there. Perhaps it is because I am assured that the Santo Niño, the true King of Tondo is always present, watching over me, and keeping me from harm.

The Santo Niño de Tondo has witnessed all my firsts: from my first words and school achievements to my first job, first date, and even moments of heartbreak. In every stage, this Holy Child has steadied me, just as He securely holds the world in His hands.

Visiting Cebu twice, seeing the revered image of the Señor, and attending Mass in His church, my devotion to the Santo Niño grew even deeper.

It led me to reflect on how the Holy Child Jesus, the beloved Son of God, humbly subjected Himself and became obedient to Mary and Joseph.

In these modern times, when many take pride in their achievements and possessions and readily display them on social media, the littleness and humility of the Santo Niño remind us not to boast before God. Everything we have comes from Him; thus, the call for us to remain humble, submissive, and obedient to the Father.

May the feast of the Santo Niño keep us grounded in every success and teach us to respect one another, not by position or status, but by the goodness of the heart.

Prayer

Dear Santo Niño, we thank You for all the blessings and graces You have bestowed upon us. May our devotion to You lead us to charity, humility, and peace with our brothers and sisters. Amen.

 

Baptismal Day

The Baptism of the Lord

11 January 2026

 

First Reading: Isaiah 42:1-4, 6-7

Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 29:1-2, 3-4, 3, 9-10

Second Reading: Acts 10:34-38

Gospel: Matthew 3:13-17

 

Reflection

By: Ma. Rosalina S. Flores

 

Today, as we officially conclude the Christmas season, we celebrate the Baptism of Our Lord Jesus Christ, an important event in His earthly life. At His baptism, while Jesus humbly allowed John the Baptist to baptize Him, Our God the Father on the other hand, exalted Him as the Holy Spirit descended upon Him like a dove, and a voice from heaven proclaimed, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased.”

This is also what happens in our own baptism. Receiving the Sacrament of Baptism not only washes away original sin but also makes us children of God, welcomes us into the Catholic Church, opens us to spiritual graces, and gives us an indelible mark that no sin can erase. Thus, baptism serves a holy purpose far beyond custom or tradition. Through baptism, we share in Christ’s mission as priest, prophet, and king: a calling we live out by grounding our lives in His commandments.

Do you know your baptismal date? Mine is January 20, 1991. I was baptized on the feast day of Santo Niño at the Minor Basilica and National Shrine of San Lorenzo Ruiz, the first Filipino saint. And this year, I will celebrate 35 years of being a Catholic. This milestone leads me to reflect: What has been the fruits of my Catholic faith? Am I a good and obedient follower of God? Honestly, the answer is no. I still need more grace to grow. Yet one thing is certain that God loves me more than anything I have done or will ever do. Even in my mother’s womb, He already knew me, and in baptism, He claimed me as His daughter.

As co-workers of Christ in His mission of love and charity through baptism, our daily lives are called to reflect that mission. It will not always be easy, but when we fail or doubt ourselves, let us return to our baptismal day, the moment God accepted us as we are, called us His beloved, and welcomed us into His family, the Church.

 

Prayer

Lord, thank You for the gift of faith, that You generously gave me at my baptism. Through the intercession of Saint Lorenzo Ruiz, may I grow deeper in the understanding of the faith and live it each day, so I may serve as Your instrument here on earth. Amen.

Generous Gift and Giver

Solemnity of the Epiphany of the Lord

04 January 2026

 

First Reading: Isaiah 60:1-6

Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 72:1-2, 7-8, 10-11, 12-13

Second Reading: Ephesians 3:2-3a, 5-6

Gospel: Matthew 2:1-12

 

Reflection

By: Ma. Rosalina S. Flores

 

What gifts did you receive and give this Christmas?

In today's Gospel as we celebrate the Epiphany of the Lord, we heard how the Magi (Wise Men) brought gifts to the infant Jesus as they paid him homage. Each gift had meaning: gold symbolized Jesus as King, frankincense pointed to His priesthood, and myrrh foretold His suffering and death.

The Epiphany, however, is not only about the gifts. It is about the revelation of Jesus to the world. The Magi were Gentiles, showing us that Jesus came not just for a chosen few, but for everyone. His kingship, priesthood, and saving love are offered to all, without exception.

In the same way, Christmas is more than presents, food, and decorations. It is a celebration of relationships and encounters. As we continue this Christmas season, let us focus more on the relationships in our lives, those that are “organic,” as we might call them today, rather than the things that are carefully curated.

May we offer our presence more than presents, our genuine care more than gift cards, and our love beyond fleeting laughter, especially this new year.

Prayer

Father, thank You for the greatest gift, Your Son, our Savior. Help us to follow Your example by giving generously, not only in material things, but also in our time, kindness, and love. Amen.