A Million Disciples

Eleventh Sunday in Ordinary Time

14 June 2026

 

First Reading: Exodus 19:2-6a

Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 100:1-2, 3, 5

Second Reading: Romans 5:6-11

Gospel: Matthew 9:36–10:8

 

Reflection

By: Anabelle Balla

 

I have always felt deeply blessed to have been drawn closer to God early in my life. Looking back, I see how He has guided me—not through just twelve disciples, but through countless people He has placed along my path. Each person carries a gift from Him, whether meant to teach, challenge, comfort, or guide me.

I have come to realize that there is goodness in everything that happens around me, even in moments that are sad, confusing, or frustrating. God is always at work, shaping my heart and spirit through people and experiences. With His help, I continue to learn how to open my eyes and recognize the blessings hidden within every situation.

God is my ultimate Shepherd. I call upon Him many times each day, and He never feels distant. He is my constant companion—my provider, protector, guide, and healer. His presence steadies me, His love strengthens me, and His grace carries me forward.

I truly believe that His goodness follows me every moment of my life. Because of this, I find myself with a million reasons to give thanks and praise as I walk in His amazing grace, step by step.

I praise Jesus, the greatest Shepherd of all.

Prayer

The Lord Is My Shepherd – Gospel Song by Sheephia

You lead me where the waters flow,

In meadows green, my spirit grows.

No fear can steal the peace You give,

You are the reason I can live.

The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not want,

Your goodness fills my heart.

You lead me in mercy, You call me by name,

I rest in Your loving arms.

When shadows fall, You light my way,

Your gentle voice reminds me to stay.

Though storms may rise, I will not fear,

For I know, my Shepherd’s near.

In You I find my peace complete,

Your grace provides all I need.

No treasure compares to what You’ve done,

My Shepherd, my Savior, the Holy One.

The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not want, Forever in You I trust.

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.