A Christian Responsibility

Twenty-third Sunday in Ordinary Time

06 September 2026

 

First Reading: Ezekiel 33:7-9

Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 95:1-2, 6-7, 8-9

Second Reading: Romans 13:8-10

Gospel: Matthew 18:15-20

 

Reflection

By: Jose Paulo Gonzales

 

“To err is human, to forgive, divine.” Credited to Alexander Pope, I would often see this sticker plastered across many rear windshield or bumper – a thoughtful reminder of how noble it is to forgive, but on the basic level, how common it is for all of us to make a mistake.

As a child being eased into the world, I would often get reminded to pay elders my basic respects: “O, magmano ka” (when it was still the norm especially within Filipino circles). In the household, we have probably seen the youngest member of the family doodling their masterpiece on the wall; a young teen blasting their music louder than others in the room can tolerate; or even the most seasoned of parents leaving cabinet doors open. All of us have our share of faults, enough that it has become customary to say “sorry” to acknowledge what we did and audibly express our contrition; but it is a different matter when the person who makes a mistake does not know what happened (i.e. ignorance). Depending on the severity of the fault, the aggrieved may simply choose to go on his or her way; but what do we do when the wrongdoer, after seeing something amiss to which they had some sizable contribution, ‘maintains,’ especially in earnest, that there is no harm done? Further, what do we do when the person repeats the same mistake?

Both the First Reading and the Gospel for today provide inquiry into the matter: when we receive God’s revelation, it is on ourselves to relay what God shared, so that others know what they need to do to participate, especially if there is something for which they must atone. If they do not want to repent for the wrong made known, the guilt rests upon their hands, and is extinguished from us, for we have done our part in reminding (although perhaps a certain sense of compassion would stretch some to remind further, again and again, very insistently; after all, if we must forgive others seventy seven times, should we not remind others just the same—as an act of love—so they can be forgiven?) Scripture is clear: our guilt is absolved when we admonish; another’s, if he or she repents; nevertheless, it is love itself that decides to go the extra measure: “Regardless of whether I am already free of guilt—what can I do to help the other person be forgiven?” This perhaps is when we become more Christlike—when we love, as said in the Second Reading. The Gospel shares with us more crucial insights into how to confront a wrongdoer. Telling someone his or her fault alone with only yourselves present is like today’s “Praise in public, criticize in private.” Letting confrontation remain privately between or among only those concerned addresses the issue while protecting the dignity of the parties involved; but in cases where the issue cannot anymore be resolved privately for the repercussions are wide-reaching, more so if the wrongdoer willfully does not admit to the mistake, the testimony of two to three witnesses establishes the more convincing claim of truth (in cases where the statements of more people hold a higher truth value). The solidarity exemplified here gives mention to two things: the importance of community—the Church—in maintaining discipline and how discipline, best handled privately with discretion, is ultimately a common social responsibility. After all, are we not our brothers’ and sisters’ keepers? Finally, it is wonderfully heralded in the Gospel: the two, three, or many believers helping us make sure that we remain in God’s discipline and love resemble the same community God accompanies fondly in prayer. This tells us: we must always strive to keep the quality of our bonds especially as the Church, and the [best] way to live harmoniously together is through love… through God, Godself.

Prayer

God, thank You for Your Presence and for reminding us how important it is to preserve our connection as Your Church. May we all do our share in keeping the Church alive and extend Her reach especially to those who have yet to encounter Her closely.

We also commend to Your loving hands those ravaged by the monsoon rains and flooding, the current state of political affairs, and the rise in incidents of violence among schools in the Philippines, those devastated by flashfloods in China-Tibet and Nepal, those in Southeast Asia who sustain the diffusion of toxic fumes from peatland fires, and those around the world who are suffering the effects of war.

These, we ask, in Jesus’ most holy Name, Amen.

God is a Person

The Nativity of the Lord (Christmas)

25 December 2025

 

First Reading: Isaiahn 52:7-10

Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 98:1, 2-3, 3-4, 5-6

Second Reading: Hebrews 1:1-6

Gospel: John 1:1-18

 

Reflection

By: Pietro S. Albano

Ever since Lent 2024, I have been visiting the St Barnabas Cathedral near my workplace whenever I can. This goes on especially this Jubilee Year as the cathedral and Good Shepherd Church which is near where I live are among the jubilee churches in our diocese. I also join the Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament in our parish every Friday night.

Spending a few moments with the Lord in the Blessed Sacrament has been a rich source of strength, guidance, and inspiration to me as I start the day or as I head home after a busy day. There were times when I was alone with the Lord which made it much easier for me to pour out my heart before Him, cry, or even sing a song. In our family bereavement this year, this beautiful devotion provided an uplifting experience. 

A story goes that one of the conversion moments for Edith Stein (aka St Teresa Benedicta of the Cross) to Catholicism was witnessing people praying in church. Such action convinced her that God is not a mere idea, but a person that we can relate with. Indeed, that is what we are celebrating today: “And the Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us” (Jn 1:14). God’s gift of His Son - a Son who desired to be with His people - is second to none. Adoring Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament and receiving Him in Holy Communion, may we become faithful witnesses of His abiding presence in the world that “came to be through him but…did not know him” (Jn 1:10).

  

Prayer

Happy birthday, Jesus! Thank You for becoming one like us. Thank You for dwelling among us despite our unworthiness. Open our hearts to always welcome You and rejoice in the light You bring. Make us zealous in leading others closer to You so that together we may see Your saving power. Amen.

Humility in Prayer

Thirtieth Sunday in Ordinary Time 

26 October 2025

 

First Reading: Sirach 35:12-14, 16-18

Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 34:2-3, 17-18, 19, 23

Second Reading: 2 Timothy 4:6-8, 16-18

Gospel: Luke 18:9-14

 

Reflection

By: Ma. Rosalina S. Flores

 

Prayer is essential in our lives. As the Church teaches, God desires a conversation with us through prayer. However, we must be mindful of both the content of our prayers and the attitude we have when we pray.

In today's Gospel, Jesus teaches us humility in prayer. The Pharisee approached God enumerating his righteous deeds and his strict adherence to the law. In his prayer, he compared himself to others, elevating himself above the tax collector and feeling more deserving of God’s favor. In contrast, the tax collector’s prayer was simple, only a humble plea for God's mercy. Jesus tells us that it was the tax collector who went home justified, not the Pharisee.

This Gospel reminds us to be humble. When we come before the Creator of heaven and earth, we don’t need to boast about our good works, as God already knows them. What He desires from us is a contrite heart, someone who seeks forgiveness and help that only He can provide. Jesus cautions us against self-righteousness, as God knows the true disposition of our hearts.

What do we pray for? Who are we when we pray? These are important questions to reflect on as we kneel before God in prayer.

Prayer

Lord, teach us to be humble in prayer. As we desire to converse with You, may You open our lips, touch our hearts, and lead us to show compassion and love to others. Amen.

Mastery in Resisting Temptation

   

First Sunday of Lent

09 March 2025

 

First Reading: Deuteronomy 26:4-10

Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 91:1-2, 10-11, 12-13, 14-15

Second Reading: Romans 10:8-13

Gospel: Luke 4:1-13

 

Reflection

By: Anabelle P. Balla

 

After a long day at work, I often find myself yearning to unwind with activities that require minimal effort. Sometimes, I enjoy going around the garden, capturing the beauty of the sunset through my phone camera, tidying up different areas of the house, watering our indoor plants, or even organizing my clothes for the next day. However, there are also moments when I succumb to the allure of online live selling, scrolling through Facebook, or binge-watching movie series. These habits have become temptations in my life that I strive to manage or eliminate entirely. It's no easy feat, especially since they've become ingrained as habits. Mastering the ability to switch off these cravings at will, such as stopping a series even when the episodes ends on a cliffhanger, requires immense self-discipline or self-mastery.

As the old saying goes, self-mastery is not easy. The pursuit of self-mastery is filled with challenges and is often a lifelong journey. It demands unwavering dedication, self-discipline, and a willingness to confront one's flaws and weaknesses. The path is often marked by setbacks and failures that test one's resolve. However, it is through overcoming these obstacles that we grow stronger and develop the ability to resist temptations.

Achieving self-mastery on our own can be challenging, but when anchored in our relationship with God, we may find it more attainable. God can provide us with the conviction, grounding us in values centered on Him, calming our spirits during times of emotional turmoil, and offering supportive circumstances that help us move away from temptations. We just need to reach out to Him and ask for help.

Embracing the path to self-mastery not only empowers us to achieve our personal goals but also enriches our overall well-being, including our relationship with God.

Prayer

Father, give us the strength and the mastery to resist temptations. With Your help, we can achieve progress. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

Better Than Self-talk

   

Ash Wednesday

05 March 2025

 

First Reading: Joel 2:12-18

Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 51:3-4, 5-6ab, 12-13, 14 and 17

Second Reading: 2 Corinthians 5:20-6;2

Gospel: Matthew 6:1-6, 16-18

 

Reflection

By: Anabelle P. Balla

 

I struggle with overthinking and intense emotions in some  days. I have tried several methods to regain my equilibrium and find peace amidst the chaos.

I tried writing down my thoughts to unload the burdens in my head, giving me a clearer perspective on my worries and anxieties. This helped me organize my thoughts and reduce my stress levels. Whenever I feel overwhelmed with emotions, I take a pause, breathe, and try to write down or process how I feel and why. This somehow brings me a sense of relief and clarity.

I do self-talk as well. I use self-talk for various reasons, such as comforting myself in a calm and reassuring manner or brainstorming solutions to problems, or when confronting myself for perceived mistakes that I did.

However, I found an even more profound way to deal with life's emotional landscape which is my daily and frequent informal conversations with God. These conversations are normally spontaneous where I reach out to Him whenever and however I can.

When I am happy, I give thanks to Him, no matter where I am or what I am doing. When I am confused, worried, or sad, I would reach out to Him, lift things up and ask for help. When I need ideas, I ask for an inspiration. When I struggle with vanity, self-centeredness, and addictions in worldly things, I turn to Him for help to grant me better control of myself, of my worldly desires. I would bring up to Him even the smallest things. When I see His beautiful creation, even the tiniest grass, leaves or flowers, I can't help but give thanks. And I don't need to kneel and be formal in doing all these. I feel like He is with me all the time, so close and can hear everything that I say, even in silence. It has become an automatic impulse to turn to Him, as if He is part of me. And I am glad of this realization for I cannot imagine navigating life without His guidance, blessings, and protection.

So yes, prayer or frequent conversation with God has helped me better. I am given better perspectives inspired by the Holy Spirit when I reach out to Him. He calms my heart, gives peace of mind, and comforts my soul, drawing me closer to Him. He is my compassionate, loving, and merciful Listener Who is Most Powerful and makes things happen for me.

Talking to Him benefits my entire being, and I am grateful for His favor despite my unworthiness. I believe He also favors everyone. We just need to reach out to Him and humbly seek His forgiveness and blessings. And today, Ash Wednesday, is a good day to start.

I love the Lord; He is filled with compassion.

Prayer

Father, thank You for listening to my mumblings every now and then. Forgive me if I get distracted while talking to You. Help me spend quality time of worship to You, in Jesus' Name. Amen.

Ask and You Shall Receive

    

Thirtieth Sunday in Ordinary Time

27 October 2024

 

First Reading: Jer 31:7-9

Responsorial Psalm: Ps 126:1-2, 2-3, 4-5, 6

Second Reading: Heb 5:1-6

Gospel: Mk 10:46-52

 

Reflection

By: Fely C. Santiago

 

What do you want me to do for you?

My husband and I just came from Eastern Europe pilgrimage where we were able to visit the Infant Jesus of Prague, Our Lady of Czestochowa in Poland, the third most visited pilgrim site after Lourdes and Fatima, the Divine Mercy Shrine also in Poland, and many more pilgrim churches in Slovakia, Hungary, and Vienna, Austria. This is an answered prayer. God truly answers prayers and provides! On our last day of the pilgrimagr, we were asked to reflect on the three things that we can take away from this pilgrimage. Mine is to trust more, to kno Jesus more, and to persevere when faced with many challenges.

We can only trust a person if we know that person. So to be able to really trust our Lord Jesus, we have to know Him more. He is our savior, our provider, our healer, full of mercy, full of unconditional lov, just, and compassionate. With Him, everything is possible. This was the message from Fr. Herbie, our Chaplain during the Mass on our last day of the pilgrimage. So when we pray and ask for anything from Him, we have to ask in faith because we know that the Lord knows what is best for us. And when we ask in faith, we believe that our prayers are already answered.

It also requires that we persevere in prayers. The answer may not come immediately but God always answers our prayers in His perfect time. The delay has its purpose. It molds our character, strengthens our faith, and teaches us to be patient, and wait for the Lord. God never fails.

The buffet of blessings has already been prepared by the Lord - healing, financial blessings, strength to face our challenges. We can come to Him and ask for it and believe that we are worthy and deserving to receive His abundant blessings. Claim and believe and thank the Lord in advance that the blessings are yours already.

Prayer

Lord Jesus, thank You in advance for the many answers to our prayers. You have planted deams in our hearts. With You, there are limitless blessings. You are the God of abundance. You know what is best for us so I ask You to give me the grace of a childlike trust in You. I believe that my prayers are already answered in Jesus' Name. Amen.

Brought to Him

    

Twenty-third Sunday in Ordinary Time

08 September 2024

 

First Reading: Is 35:4-7a

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

Second Reading: Jas 2:1-5

Gospel: Mk 7:31-37

 

Reflection

By: Bernard Borja

“There are three quickest ways to spread a rumor: through the internet, through the phone, and telling your mother.” This was one of the jokes I read during Mother’s Day. But because today is Mama Mary’s birthday, I would like to honor her with this reflection. I remember I was a shy little child and growing up, I would always ask my mother to tell people what I wanted to say. I would ask, “Can you tell teacher about my homework…?” or “Can you tell my classmate that I need my pencil back…?” I also run to her every time I have problems. Come to think of it, don’t we all desire to run to our mothers most of the time, especially when we need something?

My prayers would often include asking for the intercession of The Blessed Mother. Like the song goes, “Sa aking paglalakbay sa bundok ng buhay, Sa ligaya at lumbay, maging talang gabay.” I always ask her to guide me to her son. Not that I can’t pray to Jesus directly, but I believe it adds to essence and “back up”. It’s like how me and my siblings communicate sometimes. I would ask my mom, “Can you ask kuya to pick me up somewhere…?” or my mom will ask me on their behalf.

In the Gospel today, I was struck by how the people brought the deaf man to Jesus and begged to lay His hand on him. It reminded me of how my mother became my spokesperson when I had “speech impediment” because I can’t find the words to say what I want. Just like the people who brought the man to Jesus and begged Him, The Blessed Mother also does this for us. She builds a bridge, or becomes a bridge herself, and brings us to her son.

How many of us now are deaf about injustices and oppression, not because we chose not to listen, but because we have already become numb? How many of us now who can’t speak for ourselves and are in need of someone to stand up for us? I believe The Blessed Mother can help us in these times. There is also a saying, “Silence is golden. Unless you have kids, silence is suspicious." I imagine how The Blessed Mother suspects that in most of our silent moments, something is bothering us. Like a mother who always observes her children and is on the lookout for our concerns. I also believe she participates in the fulfillment of Isaiah’s prophecy, “the eyes of the blind be opened, the ears of the deaf be cleared; the lame will leap like a stag, the tongue of the mute will sing.” by bringing us to her son. Through The Blessed Mother, Jesus tells us “Ephphatha!”.

 

I also want to share another saying for my last point: “Nothing is really lost… until mom can’t find it.” Sometimes, I think mothers do a better job than Saint Anthony in finding things. I believe that The Blessed Mother constantly looks for us especially when we feel lost. For her, no one is really lost. We just need to be guided to the right path and be opened. Just like Saint Monica led her son, Saint Augustine, back to God, our hearts will be restless until we are brought to Jesus and rest our hearts in Him. We can always ask our Blessed Mother Mary to bring us to her son. Like another song goes, “Puso ko'y pahimlayin Inay, upang yaring hamog ng gabing tiwasay ay madama ko bilang damping halik ng 'yong Anak. Ay! Irog kong Inay.”

 

Prayer

Dear Lord, we ask for Your heavenly grace that this day may bring deeper peace to those whose hearts are deaf and mute. We ask the intercession of our Blessed Mother Mary to tell her son our joys and sorrows, and whisper to Him that we love Him. Mariang aming ina, kay Kristong aming kapatid, akayin mo kami. AMEN.

The Bread of Life

    

Nineteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time

11 August 2024

 

First Reading: 1Kgs 19:4-8

Responsorial Psalm: Ps 34:2-3, 4-5, 6-7, 8-9

Second Reading: Eph 4:30—5:2

Gospel: Jn 6:41-51

 

Reflection

By: Theresa B. Manio

 

Today’s Gospel is a reiteration of what God told us last Sunday. He once again gives more emphasis on the value of the bread and wine that we are partaking in the Holy Eucharist, more so, how that Bread alone and a profound relationship with Jesus nourishes our Spirit. Jesus begins by declaring, "I am the bread that came down from heaven." To the listeners of His time, this was a controversial statement. They murmured, questioning how He could claim such a divine origin, knowing His earthly parents. Yet, as the reading continues, Jesus challenges their understanding of spiritual reality versus physical reality.

The idea of Jesus as the "bread of life" resonates deeply with me. Bread is a basic, daily necessity—something we rely on for physical sustenance. Similarly, Jesus positions Himself as essential for our spiritual well-being. Just as we cannot live without bread, we cannot thrive spiritually without the sustenance He provides. This comparison makes me ponder my own spiritual hunger.

It is easy to believe in Jesus and His teaching when things are going well with my life. My spirits are high to worship and give thanks but when circumstances are odd and when at times everything seems going wrong, I oftentimes find myself asking where is God in all these. What is He trying to teach me? When and how will help come? It is hard to see the good when everything around is dark. In spite of these, I can feel that tiny spark inside me, telling me to endure and hold on, receive the Eucharist, read His promises in the Bible, attend the weekly worship session, and just let go. Cry if you need to, let go and let God handle it.

The passage also challenges me to reflect on the nature of faith and acceptance. Jesus says, "The one who feeds on this bread will live forever." This is a call to not just acknowledge Him but to fully embrace Him and His teachings. It's about an ongoing relationship where we continually draw from His life-giving presence. In practice, this means prioritizing time for prayer, reflection, and seeking to live according to His teachings. It’s a call to recognize that, like physical bread, the spiritual nourishment Jesus provides is something I must consistently return to. It’s about daily choices to align my life with His will and to rely on His grace.

As I think about these verses, I am reminded that the bread of life is not just a doctrine to be understood but a reality to be lived. It’s an invitation to a deeper, more meaningful relationship with Christ, a relationship that transforms not just my spiritual life but the way I approach every aspect of my existence.

 

Prayer

Dear God, 

May we continually seek Jesus, the bread of life, to find our deepest satisfaction and purpose in His presence. We trust that Your profound love and provision is available to us especially when we come to You with open hearts, may we easily recognize Your work in our lives. May we be instruments of Your loving presence in the people we encounter in our daily lives. Amen.

Beautiful in White

    

Second Sunday of Lent

05 March 2023

 

First Reading: Gn 12:1-4a

Responsorial Psalm: Ps 33:4-5, 18-19, 20, 22

Second Reading: 2 Tm 1:8b-10

Gospel: Mt 17:1-9

 

Reflection

By: Ma. Rosalina S. Flores

 

Today's Gospel narrates the Transfiguration of Jesus, the moment up a high mountain when His face shone like the sun and His clothes became white as light, as witnessed by Peter, James, John and his brother. His disciples also saw Moses and Elijah conversing with Jesus. They even heard a voice came from the cloud that said, "This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased; listen to Him."

At the end of the Transfiguration event, Jesus charged His disciples to "Do not tell the vision to anyone until the Son of Man has been raised from the dead."

In line with the transfiguration, my father always tells me that I am God's daughter and I am robed in white garment. He then challenges me to keep my garment white until death by loving God and my neighbors in preparation for eternal life.

But isn't it difficult to make your spiritual garment white all the time, same with washing your white clothes? Sometimes, we need to try different detergents to find the perfect one that will make our clothes as white as new.

Good thing, Jesus has already given us the secrets to transfiguration: prayer, fasting, and almsgiving, the three pillars of Lent.

In fact, immediately, after descending the mountain, Jesus has mentioned about prayer and fasting in His next encounter where at the multitude, He healed a demon-possessed boy. 'Then the disciples approached Jesus privately and said, "Why were we unable to cast him out?" Jesus said to them: "Because of your unbelief...But this kind is not cast out, except through prayer and fasting."' Following that, Jesus also taught almsgiving as He instructed Peter to pay the temple tax. "But so that we may not become an obstacle to them: go to the sea, and cast in a hook, and take the first fish that is brought up, and when you have opened its mouth, you will find a shekel. Take it and give it to them, for me and for you."

We are now on the Second Sunday of Lent, exactly 28 days before the Holy Week, may we spend well the remaining days of preparation for the much-anticipated Easter, the resurrection of Our Lord Jesus Christ.

Prayer

Jesus, help us to prepare not only our garments but also our hearts in our journey to Holy Week and to eternal life. Help us to become prayerful, generous, and deny ourselves for a much better purpose. All these we ask in Your Mighty Name, Amen.

Man in the Mirror

   

  Thirtieth Sunday in Ordinary Time

23 October 2022 

 

First Reading: Sir 35:12-14, 16-18

Responsorial Psalm: Ps 34:2-3, 17-18, 19, 23

Second Reading: 2 Tm 4:6-8, 16-18

Gospel: Lk 18:9-14

 

Reflection

By: Theresa Ballo-Manio

 

When you get up in the morning and see yourself in a mirror, what do you see? That first look in the mirror says most of the truth about us and how we feel. After some time, when we go about our own affairs, be it work or studies, we somehow project a different version of ourselves to others. This may not happen at all which is very ideal. At times we are called to do this and there may be times we live a life differently from who we truly are and how we truly feel. This is hard and really sad because living a life made of lies, arrogance, and self righteousness will eat us alive. It will take out the very human in us, our frailty, our need to depend on God alone. 

This Sunday’s Gospel is related to last week’s parable of Jesus about praying. It is an invitation for us to be truly real in front of God whenever we pray. The tax collector in today’s Gospel presents himself to God exactly as he is, a sinner and someone who falls short of God’s graces to do good all the time. He did not pretend to be someone he is not. Contrary to the Pharisee, who presented a false picture of himself to God, telling all his accomplishments, good works, and exaggerating his virtues up to the point of condemning the tax collector who is also praying beside him. 

When we see ourselves better than our neighbors because of the things that we do (doing outreach programs, attending Church activities, having good jobs)  and the things that we do not do (committing crimes) it somehow gives us a good feeling, perhaps because we see ourselves a bit better than those who fail where we succeed. The parable reminds us not to be prisoners of our own small righteousness and not to be blatantly judgemental to others. We are all sinners and all beloved children of a merciful Father. The Gospel invites us to acknowledge our true self and lay down all our cards to God. We will never be perfect, but we can always be honest. 

God’s unconditional love for us gives us the courage we need to present ourselves to him as we truly are. Yes, it may give us feelings of shame yet God’s grace fills us with another chance to be better, to do better, and see people in His eyes. In the beginning of the Eucharist, we are called to mind all our sins, to continue an honest relationship and meeting of God. In my head, God would look down on us from heaven and say in response, “I know everything about you, but now I am happy that you know your shortcomings too! Now, we can continue to have an honest and open relationship.”

Prayer

Dear God, be merciful to a sinner like me. I feel Your love not because I am good but because You are. Whenever I come towards You or be honest to You, things get lighter. May we always set Your loving kindness as our inspiration to see ourselves better and be kinder to others as well. Amen. 

P.R.A.Y. (Pray, Rest, And Yield )

   

  Twenty-ninth Sunday in Ordinary Time

16 October 2022 

 

First Reading: Ex 17:8-13

Responsorial Psalm: Ps 121:1-2, 3-4, 5-6, 7-8

Second Reading: 2 Tm 3:14-4:2

Gospel: Lk 18:1-8

 

Reflection

By: Theresa Ballo-Manio

 

There may be times where we feel tired in praying especially when our intentions are not happening. There may be times where we doubt ourselves if we are actually asking God for something with the purest intentions. When we fall short of God's commandments, we sometimes feel unworthy of God's grace and mercy. Nevertheless, the Gospel this Sunday reminds us what real prayer is and how God manifests in our lives.

Praying is communication. It is a two-way process. Just like in any relationship we have, we get tired when we do all the talking. We failed to understand because we resisted listening attentively. It is easier for us to assume rarher than ask. Jesus is asking us to be patient, "pray always and do not lose heart". For a long time, the judge was unwilling, but eventually he gave in to the persistent widow. Praying develops hopes and creates joy in waiting. That resting time may enable us to ponder what it is that we truly desire or make us appreciate and value our answered prayer even more when it comes.

The widow never gave up until the judge responded to her. Our prayers are heard and some of our petitions will be answered in the way that is best for us. It may not exactly be how we wanted it but always in the most loving way that fits our needs. In a special way, I am writing this reflection with the thought of all my acquaintances and friends suffering and battling with mental health issues, those with anxieties, depression, and living in the dark pit of emptiness. They are like the present day widow in Jesus' time. Persistently, they would want to get the ill-feeling so hard, often misunderstood, judgments placed on their shoulders, and treated unkindly. The widow's persistence paved the way for justice to happen. Years back, I had post-traumatic stress disorder and when it is triggered, the trauma creeps in and consumes the best for me. My faith and fear of the Lord keeps me alive. Believe me, it is never easy yet it brings more compassion and empathy in me to treat each person nicely, to have allowances for mistakes, and to cling on to God through prayers. Faith in God may not always be the answer to people with mental health issues yet the courage to ask fo help, believe it or not, is always the first step to recovery. Like the persistent widow, may we always believe that there is help available, express your need to someone you trust, and remain faithful for no matter how difficult it may seem, there is always a loving God who keeps His promises and remains faithful to us.

Prayer

Dear Lord, teach us  to trust in You and not lose hope when we call on You in times of need and sorrow. Keep us faithful in prayer, Oh Lord, for Your mercy and generosity are always enough. Give us patience to wait as You unfold Your best plans to each one of us. Amen.

Rest

Sixteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time

18 July 2021 

 

First Reading: JER 23:1-6

Responsorial Psalm: PS 23:1-3, 3-4, 5, 6

Second Reading: EPH 2:13-18

Gospel: MK 6:30-34

 

Reflection

By: Grace Madrinan

 

"Come away by yourselves to a deserted place and rest a while". - Mark 6:31

This verse struck me the most in today's Gospel. I have been guilty of overworking for the past few days that I felt irritable and almost in a tantrum. And the verse reminded what I needed the most...rest.

But if you read the verse more closely, there are other keywords to describe the rest required. It says "by yourselves" which reads alone. "To a deserted place" which means away from the world's distractions - work, mobile phones, netflix.

Almost immediately, when rest is suggested, people will suggest going to an out of town trip, climb a mountain or take a swim elsewhere. I know because I would love to take that rest somewhere else given this pandemic. But reflecting on the passage today, deep in my heart I know it calls me to a different rest.

"When was the last time that you pray? That kind of prayer where you lose track of time, the kind of prayer that moves you to tears and lulls you to sleep..."

I heard this question in my mind and felt that tug in my heart. It's true. My prayers lately, if not hurried, is limited to the rosary or Divine Mercy. I needed to find my rest again in a deep prayer.

"Early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where He prayed." - Mark 1:35

Even Jesus, our Lord, took time to pray. I should, too.

Prayer

 

Father, I was too caught up with this world that I forget to rest and pray. Forgive me. Teach me how to pray as Jesus did that I may fully recover and find rest in You. Amen.

 

 

God's Plan

Fifth Sunday of Lent

21 March 2021 

 

First Reading:  JER 31:31-34

Responsorial Psalm:  PS 51:3-4, 12-13, 14-15

Second Reading:  HEB 5:7-9

Gospel:  JN 12:20-33

 

Reflection

By: Emerson C. Maala

 

Once a year, my high school best friends were able to gather just to have a moment of friendship and talk about ourselves. It is just like a mini-reunion. Most of them are already professionals and have stable jobs. It was only I who was still studying because of my chosen vocation. We asked one another what was our plans and wishes after five years. In his sudden reaction, one of my best friends realized that he was turning 30 years old at that time. He said he wants to pause his age at 25 years old because he still wants to do many things and enjoy his life. Similarly, they asked me a question if I don't have any regrets that I was not able to enjoy my life outside. Excitedly, I answered them saying, "This might be God's plan for me and I love what I am doing and I enjoy things that I have right now.

 

In the Gospel, Jesus is aware that the hour has come. It is the time of His passion, death, and resurrection; the return to His Father and His glorification. However, Jesus was troubled. He knew that He will suffer from pain and anguish and He knew that this was the way. Instead of complaining, that the chalice of suffering passes Him by, Jesus prayed, "Father, glorify Your Name." And the Father's glory was manifested by Jesus in His loving disciples and all the people at the very end.

 

In the Gospel, Jesus reminds us that aside from our plans, there is God's plan. We might not be certain of the future or we might want to be still in our younger age or to pause our age so that we might be able to do things and enjoy our life. However, these were all just things that we want and not what God want for us. We might experience pain and suffering on our way, but Jesus would always be on our side, to fulfill God's plan for us. For what God wants for us will always be for our sake and a fruit of His love for us.

 

Prayer

 

Lord Jesus, You have taught us to accept what Your Father planned for You. By this, we begged You to grant us the grace to have a humble heart so that we could also accept what God planned for us. Help us on our journey to fulfill Your Father's plan for us and always lead us on life. Amen.