Unhurried Grace

The Solemnity of the Most Holy Trinity

15 June 2025

 

First Reading: Proverbs 8:22-31

Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 8:4-5, 6-7, 8-9

Second Reading: Romans 5:1-5

Gospel: John 16:12-15

 

Reflection

By: Bernard M. Borja

 

The profound words of Jesus invite us into a contemplation of both the mystery of divine revelation and the transformative guidance the Holy Spirit offers in our lives. Jesus says that not all truth is revealed at once, but He reassures us that there is a divine process at work— a gentle unfolding of understanding that matches our readiness to receive it. This gradual revelation is not about concealment but rather an act of deep wisdom. Just as the disciples could not grasp the fullness of Jesus’ teachings at once, we too often find life's truths emerging over time. In moments of uncertainty or when the weight of life’s challenges seems too heavy, we are reminded that the Spirit of truth is ever-present, patiently preparing our hearts to receive deeper understanding. This path in divine revelation teaches us the importance of trust and patience, inviting us to welcome the slow, nurturing progression of spiritual growth. It is in this embrace of gradual revelation that our understanding deepens, and our faith is strengthened.

Jesus also wants us to understand the nature of the Holy Trinity. The intimate relationship between the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit is deeply established. All that the Father possesses is also with the Son, and the Holy Spirit acts as the guide, proclaiming this divine unity to us. In the harmonious relationship of these three persons, we can have a glimpse of the perfect model of love that is very evident in our relationships — values that lie at the heart of our family lives. The Spirit does not work alone but glorifies Jesus by drawing from the abundance of divine truth offered by the Father. This sacred and intimate harmony of the Holy Trinity reminds us of our spiritual inheritance — that truth and wisdom are gifts meant to be shared.

If we look at the aspect of family life, our understanding of the Holy Trinity offers an inspiring guide for relationships, like in the role of Fathers. Just as the Heavenly Father imparts love, provision, and truth to His creation, earthly fathers are called to share these divine qualities within the family. A father’s role is not simply to lead or to instruct from above, but to walk beside his loved ones in a journey of shared discovery and growth. By modeling restraint, compassion, and a willingness to listen—as the Holy Spirit listens and communicates truth—fathers can guide their families with a wisdom that inspires courage and nurtures hope. The words of Jesus invite fathers to see themselves as humble stewards of a greater truth, entrusted not with complete authority and power, but with the responsibility of mirroring God’s infinite love and patience.

We are also invited to appreciate that growth and understanding occur in small, precious moments. Life lessons cannot simply be given all at once but must develop gradually, nurtured by repeated acts of love, kindness, guidance, and by example. When fathers invest in their children by being honest, kind, and patient, they build an environment in which truth can flourish. An environment that is also a reflection of the Holy Trinity’s patient revelation to the disciples. Through this, we slowly understand the unhurried grace that is continuously imparted as we go through our journeys together. As relationships deepen and bonds strengthen, the light of truth shines ever brighter. Families that nurture truth and love become shelters not only for their own members but also for the larger community, resonating with the nature of the Holy Trinity for all to witness. As we celebrate the Solemnity of the Holy Trinity, we are reminded that the eternal love of the Father, the sacrificial presence of the Son, and the guiding power of the Holy Spirit are implanted into every aspect of our lives.

As we also celebrate Father’s Day, may every father be inspired to lead with gentle authority and heartfelt dedication. Fathers are beacons of truth who help their families go through the difficulties of life by sharing the slow, steady light of divine wisdom. For all earthly fathers like me, may we embrace our role as guides, companions, and earthly models of divine love. Know that in every patient word, every compassionate act, and every silent moment of shared truth, we reflect the divine process of the Holy Trinity in us. Trusting in this process helps us tirelessly nurture our families, lighting the way with love, truth, and ascending hope.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, we thank You for the gentle unfolding of Your truth that guides us through every season of life. May The Holy Spirit fill our hearts with patient understanding, teaching us to trust in the gradual revelation of Your divine wisdom. Inspire us, especially as fathers and family leaders, to mirror Your compassion, humility, and steadfast love in every act. Help us to see the beauty in small moments, knowing that each is a step toward deeper spiritual growth and unity. In the sacred harmony of the Holy Trinity, may we be empowered to reflect Your light to our families and the world around us.

We also lift to you the countries who are in conflict right now, especially Israel and Iran, asking that Your peace might repress the war and heal every division. May Your presence soften hardened hearts and guide leaders toward dialogue, compassion, and reconciliation. Inspire all communities to replace disharmony with understanding and replace struggle with hope. In Your infinite mercy, bring lasting peace and unity to these distressed regions and the whole world.

In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.

A Healing Story

    

Fourth Sunday of Lent

19 March 2023

 

First Reading: 1 Sm 16:1b, 6-7, 10-13a

Responsorial Psalm: Ps 23: 1-3a, 3b-4, 5, 6

Second Reading: Eph 5:8-14

Gospel: Jn 9:1-41

 

Reflection

By: Ma. Rosalina S. Flores

Our Gospel this Sunday narrates how Jesus healed a man, blind from birth. It was written that when Jesus saw the man, he did not think twice of healing him, saying "Neither he nor his parents sinned; it is so that the works of God might be made visible through him."

Regaining sight, the man, even if questioned many times by the Pharisees, ridiculed until he was thrown out, the man has sticked to his belief that the one who healed him is a good man. So grateful for the gift of healing, when Jesus introduced Himself to the man, he undoubtedly believed and worshiped Jesus in return.

How many times did we hear stories of healing miracles? Isn't it that those who experienced healing miracles have actually become followers and promoters of Jesus? In their gratefulness for their regained health, they sing praise to the Lord and promise to love Him with all their hearts.

I was diagnosed with Bell's Palsy last year. It was sudden and it happened two days after my 32nd birthday, on August 19, 2022 at 11AM. What a gift from God, getting sick after my birthday, huh. I was just scrolling on my phone when I felt that the right side of my upper lip weakened. Feeling that something was not right, I tried to drink water and there, it was dripping. I didn't have full control of my drinking and eating when we had our lunch. I looked at myself in the mirror and the right side of my face from right eyebrow down to the right side of my lips had difficulty moving. My symptoms also worsened overnight.

Before Bell's Palsy hit me, I was never hospitalized and fever was the severe sickness I had. The cause of Bell's Palsy is unknown but may be triggered by viral infection, lack of sleep, weakened immunity, or stress. My case was due to weakened immunity, therefore, I was told to constantly boost my immune system, avoid stressors, sleep well, and limit screen time to prevent the possibility of Bell's Palsy to recur.

Because of my health condition, I was not able to serve as a lector and commentator for one month as I had difficulty speaking too. I could not clearly pronounce the words with letters P, B, and F. While still recovering from Bell's Palsy, another unfortunate incident happened to me. My bag with Php15,000.00 and all IDs got snatched. I was already sick Lord, and then the money I could use for my medication was taken just like that. I got depressed to the point that I questioned God why those things happened to me.

Four doctors (family medicine, neuro-surgeon, neurologist, rehabilitation) and four Physical Therapists have helped me to recover. I was declared Bell's Palsy resolved in less than two months of seeking medical attention. Thanks be to God and to the people He used as instruments as my recovery was way faster than the usual cases. Yes, I got sick but God did not let me wait any longer to be healed.

A month after my diagnosis, having noticed my fast recovery, I immediately went back to serving the Lord, as it is my little way to show Him my sincerest thanks and appreciation for His gift of healing.

Being sick and having been healed, I always wanted to share how God has touched me with His healing hand, that I appreciate Him more now, because at my lowest, He was there, He did not let me down, but instead, He has lifted me up.

Grace after grace, I was also assigned during Special Masses presided over by His Eminence, Jose F. Cardinal Advincula last December 8 and 24, 2022 and this January 6, 2023 after my Bell's Palsy Journey. See how faithful is Our Lord, Our Savior, Jesus. I was once had difficulty speaking but it is also through speech that He redeemed me and I serve Him.

It is when we are blind that we see clearly, when mute that we can speak well, when deaf that we can listen carefully, when numb that we actually feel God's presence.

Prayer

Thank You Lord for the gift of healing, for not leaving us alone during the challeging times, and for showing Your faithfulness toward us. May we sing forever of Your Love, O Lord and celebrate the wonder of Your Name, to the ends of the earth. Amen.

Moment of Grace. Now.

First Sunday of Advent

28 November 2021 

 

First Reading: JER 33:14-16

Responsorial Psalm: PS 25:4-5, 8-9, 10, 14

Second Reading: 1 THES 3:12--4:2

Gospel: LK 21:25-28, 34-36

 

Reflection

By: Pietro S. Albano

 

"Beware that your hearts not become drowsy..."

The late Cardinal John O'Connor, former Archbishop of New York, once related a story when he went to confession to an elderly priest. The priest told him, "Now is a moment of grace. Something big is about to happen; something very big. And it's going to happen to you. We are about to begin Advent. God has become incarnate in human condition, for you, personally for you. God has become a little baby right in the middle of the sins you just told me about. You have reason for new and wonderful hope."

In today's Gospel, Jesus wants us to keep an eye on our hearts lest they become tired from "carousing and drunkenness and the anxieties of daily life." Such mundane activities often mark the forthcoming Christmas season. The Church sets aside for weeks of spiritual preparation called Advent to help us to slow down, listen to, and act upon the Lord's warning. Like what the elderly priest told Cardinal John, Advent is a moment of grace and hope for all of us. Let us then take advantage of what Advent offers us that we may stand straight before Jesus, our coming Messiah.

• How do you keep your heart from becoming drowsy due to the mad rush to Christmas?
• How can Advent be a season of "new and wonderful hope" for you?
• How will you stand if Jesus suddenly arrives at your doorstep?

Prayer

Lord, Jesus, thank You for Your word today. Awaken our hearts from the long night of sin and vice into the new day of hope and peace in Your presence. Amen.

Come, Lord Jesus, come!

 

Progenitor of grace

Seventeenth Sunday in Ordinary Time

25 July 2021 

 

First Reading: 2 Kgs 4:42-44

Responsorial Psalm: Ps 145:10-11, 15-16, 17-18

Second Reading: Eph 4:1-6

Gospel: Jn 6:1-15

 

Reflection

By: Grace Madrinan

 

"There is a boy here who has five barley loaves and two fish, but what are these for so many?" - John 6:9

When I read this verse in today's Gospel, I can't help but relate it to the community pantry that had since spread all over the country and abroad. I saw how it started with one small cart of basic pantry items along Maginhawa street. If Ana Patricia Non, the progenitor of this community pantry, thought that her help is too little to matter, then 6,700 other community pantries would not have helped feed people in need.

Similar to the boy in today's Gospel, he did not mind sharing his small packed lunch to the disciples. His generosity is innate. In his innocent mind, if he can but make at least a few less hungry then that would be enough, even at the risk of losing food for his own.

And that is what Jesus is waiting for - a progenitor of generosity. Someone to offer even with the littlest he has, so that God can multiply it.

I used to wonder why Jesus had to wait for the boy to offer his lunch. He could just have brought rain of manna like in the time of Moses, or turn stone into bread. But I also thought that it would not look right, since it would look like sorcery and besides, would you eat the food if you knew it used to be a stone? There's going to be a lot of explaining to do! That is definitely not how God operates.

I read somewhere that this is because God wants to cooperate with us. He is not invasive, He is not manipulative, He will move if we allow Him to work. And when we have faith, miracles happen.

 

Prayer

 

"Dearest Lord, teach me to be generous

Teach me to serve You as I should

To give and not to count the cost"

    - Prayer of Generosity (Bukas Palad Ministry)

 

Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God

First Reading:  NM 6:22-27

Second Reading:  GAL 4:4-7

Gospel:  LK 2:16-21

 

Reflection

By: Carlo Malaluan

 

In the Gospel, we see a very intimate scene of God-experience. The shepherds tending their flock went in haste to the place where Jesus is born. They find his parents and told them the story of apparition of the angels whom he brought them the good news of Salvation. The shepherds seemingly curious and filled with joy upon receiving the good news, saw the God-child with His mother. In the tradition of the Church, Mary is the Theotokos – the God-bearer.

 

Each Christmas season, I would like to reflect on the beautiful image of Mary cradling the infant Jesus. This tender image of a mother and her son points us to the divine peace that the Divine child has brought to the world. It is also timely, as we join in prayers for peace, let us also look at another image of the Blessed Mother at the foot of the cross caressing the lifeless body of her Son. The same arms that held the Child in a humble stable of Bethlehem received the body of the Savior. In the arms of the Blessed Mother is the true source of peace.

 

In the beginning, God desired peace and harmony among all creation but sin entered and violence follows. It was God's will to restore that peace in our hearts by coming forth through a mother.

Allow me to recall the words of the Holy Father Francis, "Jesus himself lived in violent times. Yet, he taught that the true battlefield, where violence and peace meet, is the human heart." In the scriptures, we see Mary pondering everything in her heart. Though she cannot understand and her heart seems to be a silent battlefield of emotions and questions, she remained trusting in the ways of the Divine.

When our hearts are overwhelmed with anger, confusion, doubt, questions – may we learn from the example of the Blessed Mother to remain in the silent contemplation of God's workings. There, we will find the true meaning of peace. As we joyfully celebrate the Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God, let us ask God for the grace of peace that Mary has experienced in that lowly stable in Bethlehem.

Prayer

The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you; the Lord lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace. Amen. (Aaronic Blessing).

 

 

 

Guide to Forgiveness

Twenty-fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time13 September 2020
First reading Sirach 27: 30-28:7

Wrath and anger are hateful things,

yet the sinner hugs them tight.

The vengeful will suffer the LORD’s vengeance,

for he remembers their sins in detail.

Forgive your neighbor’s injustice;

then when you pray, your own sins will be forgiven.

Could anyone nourish anger against another

and expect healing from the LORD?

Could anyone refuse mercy to another like himself,

can he seek pardon for his own sins?

If one who is but flesh cherishes wrath,

who will forgive his sins?

Remember your last days, set enmity aside;

remember death and decay, and cease from sin!

Think of the commandments, hate not your neighbor;

remember the Most High’s covenant, and overlook faults.

Second reading                                                          Romans 14:7-9

Brothers and sisters:

None of us lives for oneself, and no one dies for oneself.

For if we live, we live for the Lord,

and if we die, we die for the Lord;

so then, whether we live or die, we are the Lord’s.

For this is why Christ died and came to life,

that he might be Lord of both the dead and the living.

Gospel                                                                          Matthew 18:21-35

Peter approached Jesus and asked him,

“Lord, if my brother sins against me,

how often must I forgive?

As many as seven times?” 

Jesus answered, “I say to you, not seven times but seventy-seven times. 

That is why the kingdom of heaven may be likened to a king

who decided to settle accounts with his servants. 

When he began the accounting,

a debtor was brought before him who owed him a huge amount. 

Since he had no way of paying it back,

his master ordered him to be sold,

along with his wife, his children, and all his property,

in payment of the debt. 

At that, the servant fell down, did him homage, and said,

‘Be patient with me, and I will pay you back in full.’

Moved with compassion the master of that servant

let him go and forgave him the loan. 

When that servant had left, he found one of his fellow servants

who owed him a much smaller amount. 

He seized him and started to choke him, demanding,

‘Pay back what you owe.’

Falling to his knees, his fellow servant begged him,

‘Be patient with me, and I will pay you back.’

But he refused. 

Instead, he had the fellow servant put in prison

until he paid back the debt. 

Now when his fellow servants saw what had happened,

they were deeply disturbed, and went to their master

and reported the whole affair. 

His master summoned him and said to him, ‘You wicked servant! 

I forgave you your entire debt because you begged me to. 

Should you not have had pity on your fellow servant,

as I had pity on you?’

Then in anger his master handed him over to the torturers

until he should pay back the whole debt. 

So will my heavenly Father do to you,

unless each of you forgives your brother from your heart.”

Reflection

By Ma. Rosalina S. Flores

Because they say, “Sorry seems to be the hardest word”, would you agree therefore that forgiveness becomes the most difficult act to do?

After teaching us how to resolve issues with our brothers and sisters last Sunday, Christ is now bringing us to a higher level of saving relationships. 

Today’s Gospel presents us a concrete guide to forgiveness. Firstly, it should be given seventy-seven times meaning no limit, endless, and on-going contrary to Peter’s generous suggestion to Jesus of limiting forgiveness to just seven times. As long as the person repents and promises to change for the better, he must be forgiven. Secondly, forgiveness is the result of being moved with compassion which is mercy, that we ourselves have received when God the Father forgave our sins and saved us through His Son, Jesus Christ. As we have received mercy, we are also called to be merciful to our brothers and sisters. That is what the king in Gospel’s story was expecting from his servant as he cancelled all his debts, but the latter failed to do so toward his debtor. In the end, the measure he used toward his fellow servant is the same measure applied to him by the king.

Although properly guided by the teachings, Jesus’ model of forgiveness is still a tough one to follow. When we were young, we settled conflicts easily. Why? It is because we value more the person, our playmate than our issues, as it is happier to always play games with someone. But as we grow older and began to become entitled, we now justify our actions so we found it difficult to see our own shortcomings. We blame all the faults to our brothers, nourish anger in our hearts, desire vengeance, and always wish to get even. We think more of ourselves and the pains they caused us, than the relationships we have established with them. As our First Reading says, “Could anyone refuse mercy to another like himself, can he seek pardon for his own sins?” How can we confidently pray Our Father and recite “Forgive us our sins as we forgive those who sins against us”, if we hate our neighbor?

Today, Jesus tells us to forgive as the Lord has forgiven us. Numerous times, big or small offense, He embraces us completely, giving us chances to start anew. Yet, as human beings who are hurt by betrayal and injustice, God knows that our path to forgiveness is a process that will take time. It is a grace that we should ask from above. Let us be reminded that as we open ourselves in the process, Jesus is walking with us, encouraging us, and over time, will give us the grace to let go and forgive the one who hurt us, soon.

Prayer

Father, I pray for those who have caused me hurt, and even if I cannot wish them well now, I pray that one day I might, through Your Son, Jesus Christ with the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Biyaya ng Tapat na Paglilingkod

Third Sunday in Ordinary Time 26 January 2020
First reading Isaiah 9:1-3

In the former time God brought into contempt the land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali, but in the latter time he will make glorious the way of the sea, the land beyond the Jordan, Galilee of the nations. The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who lived in a land of deep darkness-on them light has shined.

You have multiplied the nation, you have increased its joy; they rejoice before you as with joy at the harvest, as people exult when dividing plunder.

Second reading                                                          1 Corinthians 1:10-13, 17

I appeal to you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree and that there be no dissensions among you, but that you be united in the same mind and the same judgment. For it has been reported to me by Chloe’s people that there is quarreling among you, my brethren. What I mean is that each one of you says, “I belong to Paul,” or “I belong to Apol’los,” or “I belong to Cephas,” or “I belong to Christ.” Is Christ divided? Was Paul crucified for you? Or were you baptized in the name of Paul? For Christ did not send me to baptize but to preach the gospel, and not with eloquent wisdom, lest the cross of Christ be emptied of its power.

Gospel                                                                          Matthew 4:12-23

Now when Jesus heard that John had been arrested, he withdrew to Galilee. He left Nazareth and made his home in Capernaum by the sea, in the territory of Zebulun and Naphtali, so that what had been spoken through the prophet Isaiah might be fulfilled: “Land of Zebulun, land of Naphtali, on the road by the sea, across the Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles- the people who sat in darkness have seen a great light, and for those who sat in the region and shadow of death light has dawned.”

From that time Jesus began to proclaim, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near.”

As he walked by the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon, who is called Peter, and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the sea-for they were fishermen. And he said to them, “Follow me, and I will make you fish for people.” Immediately they left their nets and followed him. As he went from there, he saw two other brothers, James son of Zebedee and his brother John , in the boat with their father Zebedee, mending their nets, and he called them. Immediately they left the boat and their father, and followed him. Jesus went throughout Galilee, teaching in their synagogues and proclaiming the good news of the kingdom and curing every disease and every sickness among the people.

Reflection

By Nats Vibiesca

Nang pumutok ang bulkang Taal, naramdaman natin ang desperasyon ng mga apektadong tao na naninirahan malapit sa bulkan at agad namang tumugon ang karamihan sa atin upang maghatid ng tulong sa ating mga kababayan. Bukod sa paglikas at pagtutulungan ng mga Pilipino, kapansin-pansin ang naging problema hanggang sa ngayon ang pagpupumilit na makabalik ng mga tao sa kanilang mga tirahan upang balikan ang kanilang ikinabubuhay-- iyon ang pag-aalaga ng mga hayop tulad ng manok, baboy, kambing, baka at iba pa. At hindi rin napigilan ang pagbabalik ng mga mangingisda sa kanilang pamamalakaya kahit pa mataas ang banta ng muling pagsabog ng bulkan. Hindi natin masisisi ang mga mangingisda o ang iba pang biktima ng mapaminsalang kalikasan na bumalik upang isalba ang mga alagang hayop dahil iyon nga lang talaga ang kanilang inaasahang ikabubuhay at napakahirap talikdan ang nakasanayan nang hanapbuhay lalo pa't wala namang malinaw na kapalit na maaari nilang gawing hanapbuhay.

Ngunit ang mga mangingisda sa Ebanghelyo nang tawagin ni Jesus, (bagama't wala namang banta sa kanilang hanapbuhay) agad na tinalikdan nila ang kanilang nakagisnang hanapbuhay upang sumunod sa Kanya. Ano'ng hiwaga ang pagtawag na iyon at agad na tumalima sila? Laging bumubukal marahil ang grasya ng Diyos sa mga taong tinatawag Niya kaya't nawawala ang anumang alinlangan o agam-agam ng pagtalima sa Kanya. Malinaw ang kapalit na gawain ang ibinigay sa kanila ni Jesus: ang mamalakaya ng tao. Ang bagong gampanin ay ang pagsunod kay Jesus na nakatuon ang mga gawain sa pangangaral ng Mabuting Balita, ang pagpapagaling ng mga may sakit, at ang tapat na paglilingkod sa kapwa.  Ito rin ang laging hamon sa ating lahat -- talikdan ang lumang gawain at sumunod sa bagong misyon na gustong ibigay sa atin ni Jesus.

Subalit ang hamong ito ay hindi lamang paglilingkod upang maging pari, madre o pagsapi sa pagiging relihiyoso, bagkus ay ito para sa ating lahat, anumang ang propesyon sa buhay. Kung minsang tayo'y nakaramdam ng tawag ng Diyos sa pagpapari ngunit nagbago naman kalaunan ang desisyon sa buhay at napunta sa ibang bokasyon, ang grasya ng Diyos ay nananatili upang makatugon tayo sa Kanyang bagong tawag. Sinisikap nating sumunod pa rin kay Jesus bilang mga tapat na Kristiyano at maging mabuting halimbawa sa paglilingkod sa kapwa lalo na sa mga nangangailangan ng tulong.

Prayer

Mahal naming Panginoong Jesus, kami ay laging nakaabang sa grasyang Iyong kaloob tuwing kami'y tinatawag mo upang sumunod sa Iyo. Matimyas na dalangin nami'y ipagkaloob ang bukal ng biyayang magdudulot ng aming tapat na paglilingkod sa Iyo at sa aming kapwa.  Amen.

Increase Our Faith

Twenty-seventh Sunday in Ordinary Time 06 October 2019
First reading Habbakuk 1:2-3; 2:2-4

O Lord, how long shall I cry for help, and you will not listen? Or cry to you “Violence!” and you will not save? Why do you make me see wrong-doing and look at trouble? Destruction and violence are before me; strife and contention arise.

Then the Lord answered me and said: Write the vision; make it plain on tablets, so that a runner may read it. For there is still a vision for the appointed time; it speaks of the end, and does not lie. If it seems to tarry, wait for it; it will surely come, it will not delay. Look at the proud! Their spirit is not right in them, but the righteous live by their faith.

Second reading                                                          1 Timothy 1:6-8, 13-14

For this reason I remind you to rekindle the gift of God that is within you through the laying on of my hands; for God did not give us a spirit of cowardice, but rather a spirit of power and of love and of self-discipline. Do not be ashamed, then, of the testimony about our Lord or of me his prisoner, but join with me in suffering for the gospel, relying on the power of God.

Hold to the standard of sound teaching that you have heard from me, in the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus. Guard the good treasure entrusted to you, with the help of the Holy Spirit living in us.

Gospel                                                                          Luke 17:5-10

The apostles said to Jesus, “Increase our faith!” The Lord replied, “If you had faith the size of a mustard seed, you could say to this mulberry tree, ‘Be uprooted and planted in the sea,’ and it would obey you.

“Who among you would say to your slave who has just come in from plowing or tending sheep in the field, ‘Come here at once and take your place at the table’? Would you not rather say to him, ‘Prepare supper for me, put on your apron and serve me while I eat and drink; later you may eat and drink’? Do you thank the slave for doing what was commanded? So you also, when you have done all that you were ordered to do, say, ‘We are worthless slaves; we have done only what we ought to have done!'”

Reflection

By Fely C. Santiago

“If you have faith as a grain of mustard seed”

God always writes a very beautiful story for us. We just have to trust that He is orchestrating and custom-making everything for good. We can never fathom the goodness and greatness of the Lord. We just have to stay in faith and continue to increase our faith.

Six days before the wedding of our daughter, her fiancé got afflicted with dengue and has to be confined in the hospital. My daughter really broke down. Everyone we know and we don’t know stormed heaven with prayers. Personally I kept a strong faith that 2 days before the wedding, the groom will be healed and discharged. I even borrowed the miraculous Tilma of Our Lady of Guadalupe from Mexico from a prayer group friend. I kept the faith. But 2 days before the wedding, the platelets count started to go down so the couple made the most difficult decision to postpone the wedding! Otherwise they will be penalized big time. In my mind, I questioned their decision why they did not keep the faith. With the difficult task of postponing the wedding I was already thinking the implications of the postponement. So see, I thought I have a strong faith but I also had bouts of doubt!

Most of us live like this. We want to keep the faith, but trials and challenges sometimes make us waiver in our faith. That’s why Jesus is challenging us if we can only have faith as small as the mustard see we can really move mountains. To continue my story, the engaged couple were able to reset the wedding 10 days from the original date. And the greatest miracle -- all the suppliers, the entourage, the sponsors, the Church, and the venue are available on the reset date without any penalty!! Whew! Truly God works in mysterious ways. God’s grace abound. We just have to trust Him, increase our faith and never entertain any doubts. God is faithful. So the wedding pushed through on the reset date and it was a very beautiful wedding and I really saw God’s Hands at work! All by His GRACE.

Prayer

Lord Jesus it is easy to say I will trust you. But just like Peter who walked in the water and saw the great storm, we can also get overwhelmed by the storms of life. The trials and challenges we face can really haunt us and make us doubt and be full of fear. But You tell us to stay in faith. Lord, continue to increase our faith. Be the Lord of our life so we can easily surrender everything to you and trust that You are orchestrating everything for good! Thank You Jesus. All this we pray in Your name, Amen. 

Obey

Third Sunday of Easter

11 April 2016  

First reading
Acts 5:27-32,40-41

The high priest demanded an explanation of the Apostles. ‘We gave you a formal warning’ he said ‘not to preach in this name, and what have you done? You have filled Jerusalem with your teaching, and seem determined to fix the guilt of this man’s death on us.’ In reply Peter and the apostles said, ‘Obedience to God comes before obedience to men; it was the God of our ancestors who raised up Jesus, but it was you who had him executed by hanging on a tree. By his own right hand God has now raised him up to be leader and saviour, to give repentance and forgiveness of sins through him to Israel. We are witnesses to all this, we and the Holy Spirit whom God has given to those who obey him.’ They warned the apostles not to speak in the name of Jesus and released them. And so they left the presence of the Sanhedrin glad to have had the honour of suffering humiliation for the sake of the name.

 

Responsorial Psalm
Psalm 29:2,4-6,11-13

 

Second reading
Apocalypse 5:11-14

In my vision, I, John, heard the sound of an immense number of angels gathered round the throne and the animals and the elders; there were ten thousand times ten thousand of them and thousands upon thousands, shouting, ‘The Lamb that was sacrificed is worthy to be given power, riches, wisdom, strength, honour, glory and blessing.’ Then I heard all the living things in creation – everything that lives in the air, and on the ground, and under the ground, and in the sea, crying, ‘To the One who is sitting on the throne and to the Lamb, be all praise, honour, glory and power, for ever and ever.’ And the four animals said, ‘Amen’; and the elders prostrated themselves to worship.

 

Gospel	John 21:1-19

Jesus showed himself again to the disciples. It was by the Sea of Tiberias, and it happened like this: Simon Peter, Thomas called the Twin, Nathanael from Cana in Galilee, the sons of Zebedee and two more of his disciples were together. Simon Peter said, ‘I’m going fishing.’ They replied, ‘We’ll come with you.’ They went out and got into the boat but caught nothing that night.

  It was light by now and there stood Jesus on the shore, though the disciples did not realise that it was Jesus. Jesus called out, ‘Have you caught anything, friends?’ And when they answered, ‘No’, he said, ‘Throw the net out to starboard and you’ll find something.’ So they dropped the net, and there were so many fish that they could not haul it in. The disciple Jesus loved said to Peter, ‘It is the Lord.’ At these words ‘It is the Lord’, Simon Peter, who had practically nothing on, wrapped his cloak round him and jumped into the water. The other disciples came on in the boat, towing the net and the fish; they were only about a hundred yards from land.

  As soon as they came ashore they saw that there was some bread there, and a charcoal fire with fish cooking on it. Jesus said, ‘Bring some of the fish you have just caught.’ Simon Peter went aboard and dragged the net to the shore, full of big fish, one hundred and fifty-three of them; and in spite of there being so many the net was not broken. Jesus said to them, ‘Come and have breakfast.’ None of the disciples was bold enough to ask, ‘Who are you?’; they knew quite well it was the Lord. Jesus then stepped forward, took the bread and gave it to them, and the same with the fish. This was the third time that Jesus showed himself to the disciples after rising from the dead.

  After the meal Jesus said to Simon Peter, ‘Simon son of John, do you love me more than these others do?’ He answered, ‘Yes Lord, you know I love you.’ Jesus said to him, ‘Feed my lambs.’ A second time he said to him, ‘Simon son of John, do you love me?’ He replied, ‘Yes, Lord, you know I love you.’ Jesus said to him, ‘Look after my sheep.’ Then he said to him a third time, ‘Simon son of John, do you love me?’ Peter was upset that he asked him the third time, ‘Do you love me?’ and said, ‘Lord, you know everything; you know I love you.’ Jesus said to him, ‘Feed my sheep.

‘I tell you most solemnly,

when you were young

you put on your own belt

and walked where you liked;

but when you grow old

you will stretch out your hands,

and somebody else will put a belt round you

and take you where you would rather not go.’

In these words he indicated the kind of death by which Peter would give glory to God. After this he said, ‘Follow me.’

 

Reflection
By Fely C. Santiago

“We must obey God rather than men..”

 

In this time and age of “do-it-yourself”, instant gratification, instant change, to be faster, to have more, we tend to also rely more on ourselves and forget to surrender and obey God’s will for our lives. We want to be in control. We want to be in charge. We are restless if we do not hit our goals. As a result we still are not happy and at peace. We are always in a rat race wanting to have power, riches and honor. That is why most of us who live a life like this are always under stress!

 

When we give in to worries and anxieties, we do not TRUST God. We listen to others instead.

 

Obedience is not necessarily “don't do this, don’t do that.” God is not a demanding God, nor a punishing God that when you commit sin, you will automatically go to hell. We must understand that God is a loving  and merciful God. All He desires for our lives is to live in the abundance of His GRACE and mercy.

 

To be obedient to God is to be CENTERED on Him. It is just like a pail under a faucet. If the pail is not aligned to the faucet, it will not be filled with water. But if the pail is aligned to the faucet, the pail can be filled with water to brim. Same with our lives. If we are not CENTERED or aligned to the grace of GOD our lives will never be full. We will always feel empty and missing something. But if we are centered on God, we will be filled to the overflowing of His Graces and Blessings

 

Always make God first in our lives. In Matthew 6:33, “seek ye first the Kingdom of God and all His righteousness. And all these things will be given unto you..” This is what happened to the apostles when they went fishing that night. They caught nothing. But when Jesus said, “Cast the net over the side of the boat and you will find something”. They obeyed Jesus and they caught a high number of fish that almost ripped their nets. Obedience to God will bring so many blessings in our lives. Obey God and TRUST in Him..

 

Surrender. Let go and let God..

 

Prayer

 

Father God, I am powerless when I am apart from You. Be the CENTER of my life Lord. I know that too many times in my life, I tend to rely on my own strength because I always want to be in control. But as a result my life is always under stress. I am more frustrated because I do not get the results that I wanted. Help me to learn to totally surrender to You Father God. You know what is BEST for me. Change my heart and renew my mind. May I make Jesus really my Lord and Savior. Help me to become the person that You want me to be Father God, in Jesus’ Name I pray. Amen .