The Empty Tomb

The Resurrection of the Lord

05 April 2026

 

First Reading: Acts 10:34a, 37-43

Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 118:1-2, 16-17, 22-23

Second Reading: Colossians 3:1-4 or 1 Corinthians 5:6b-8

Gospel: John 20:1-9 or Matthew 28:1-10

 

Reflection

By: Benj Santiago

The Resurrection of Christ is a message of hope for a nation often burdened by poverty, corruption, disasters, and uncertainty brought about by the Middle East conflict between Iran vs Israel and USA. 

Like the disciples who found the empty tomb, we are invited to believe even when situations look hopeless. 

The risen Christ reminds us that suffering is not the end, and darkness never has the final word. 

In a country facing economic hardship, rising prices, and social division, Easter calls us to renew our faith, rebuild our communities, and rise above fear with courage, unity, and compassion. 

Hope is alive, and new life is always possible.

Prayer

Lord Jesus, Risen Savior, in our nation burdened by poverty, corruption, disasters, and uncertainty, renew our hope. 

When life seems hopeless, help us believe in Your victory over darkness. Strengthen our faith, unite our people, and give us courage to rebuild with compassion. 

May Your Resurrection inspire new life in us all. Amen.

New Life

Fifth Sunday of Lent

22 March 2026

 

First Reading: Ezekiel 37:12-14

Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 130:1-2, 3-4, 5-6, 7-8

Second Reading: Romans 8:8-11

Gospel: John 11:1-45

 

Reflection

By: Anton Ocampo

 

The narrative of Jesus restoring Lazarus back to life is featured in the Gospel reading for this Sunday. With this miracle, Jesus gives a glimpse of what is to come. Aside from showing love for His beloved friend from Bethany, who was already dead for four days by the time He arrived to perform this act, with this wonderous miracle, He gives us a glimpse of the glory He will attain once He rises from the dead. Lazarus was resuscitated or revived back to life upon the loud call of Jesus. On the other hand, Jesus will rise from the dead by His own power, proving that He is indeed the one true God who came to save humanity by His Holy Cross and Resurrection.

Interestingly, immediately after the narrative of this wonderous miracle, the next event that was featured was a session that was held by the Sanhedrin in response to what Jesus has done for Lazarus. A meeting was immediately summoned by the Sanhedrin so that its members would have the chance to discuss among themselves their next move. What will they do as a response to this miracle which was done by this popular preacher who came all the way from Nazareth? If He continues to perform deeds like this, His popularity will continue to increase which will cause them headaches in dealing with Rome. This is where Caiaphas, the high priest at the time, provided a solution – one man will die for the sake of the people (John 11:46-49). The man they chose to suffer and die for the sake of the people is none other than Jesus who they are greatly envious of and want to get rid of.

Even though Jesus was not there in the meeting that was convened by the members of the Sanhedrin, He knew what was in their hearts. He knew fully well that they wanted to kill Him. Despite knowing what was in their hearts and minds, Jesus did not have any regrets in leaving His heavenly kingdom to come to the world in order to save humanity. Not even the cruel plot of the Sanhedrin to put Him to death made Him regret coming to the world to save humanity through His Cross and Resurrection. This is evidence of His great mercy, compassion, and love.

As stated in the Responsorial Psalm, the Lord is full of mercy. This is the reason why He chose to save us. In fact, this is what the Lord clearly stresses in the words He says through the Prophet Ezekiel in the First Reading. In the Second Reading, the Apostle Saint Paul talks about the gift of new life that was given to us through Christ Jesus. In giving us the gift of new life, God has proven that He is indeed merciful, compassionate, and loving. God has willed that His Spirit lives in us in order for us to experience the change He gives. We no longer live in sin. Rather, we are created anew. We become people who are filled with holiness and righteousness, which is pleasing to Him. 

God is truly merciful, compassionate, and loving. Aside from giving each of us an opportunity to experience life here on earth, He also gives us the gift of new life. This gift of new life is a life filled with holiness and righteousness, which is truly pleasing to Him. By coming down from Heaven to assume the role of the promised Messiah and Savior through His only Begotten Son, Christ Jesus, He has freely given us this wonderous gift.

   

Prayer

Filled with heartfelt gratitude for the gift of life, we humbly praise, worship, thank, and exalt You, O Lord. We also humbly thank You for giving us the gift of new life, a life filled with holiness and righteousness. Like Lazarus who was raised back to life, may we always choose to listen and obey Your word and will. Amen.

Of Doubts and Dogs: Finding God in the Unexpected

   

Second Sunday of Easter

(Divine Mercy Sunday)

27 April 2025

 

First Reading: Acts 5:12-16

Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 118:2-4, 13-15, 22-24

Second Reading: Revelation 1:9-11a, 12-13, 17-19

Gospel: John 20:19-31

 

Reflection

By: Therese B. Manio

 

It's easier to believe when something reaches your senses, when you've seen it, touched it, smelled it, or felt it deep in your bones. But what happens when the proof you crave never comes? What if you're standing in the middle of heartbreak, and nothing makes sense anymore? What if the silence is louder than hope, and all you're left with is the ache of absence? That's where we find Thomas, not as a skeptic, but as someone whose world just collapsed over the death of a loved one. And honestly, I get him. I think a lot of us do.

I've always found myself relating to Thomas. Not because he doubted out of arrogance, but because he needed something tangible, something real to hold onto when everything around him was falling apart. I imagine the silence after Jesus' death was deafening for Thomas. He had given his life to follow someone he believed in, and then suddenly, it seemed like all of that had come to nothing. It's not hard to understand why he needed to see the wounds.

In many ways, I've had my own "Thomas moments", times when I asked for signs, needed proof, and struggled with trust. One of those moments was when I received Magis in 2019, a shih tzu dog, into my life. He was my first pet, and I wasn't sure if I was ready. I just transferred to Laguna, living by myself, far from my family and friends whom I could easily call in case I need assistance or if she gets sick. My parents doubted my ability to take care of a pet which in a way added more doubts in myself. Could I be responsible for another life? Could I understand her needs? Could I be enough? I was filled with doubt. But as the days went on, Magis quietly taught me about trust, presence, and companionship. She actually took care of my mental health during the pandemic. She never made me feel alone, literally and figuratively. There were moments I cried in bed, she would climb, sit in my lap, or sleep beside me, which she would not do on usual days. Her quiet loyalty mirrored the presence of Christ in ways I didn't expect- faithful, unassuming, always there.

This week, as I grieve the loss of Magis and join the world in mourning the passing of Pope Francis, I'm reminded that faith is not always grand or certain, it is often lived in small, courageous steps. Pope Francis was a shepherd who walked with the wounded, spoke for the voiceless, and loved those on the margins. His legacy challenges us to keep believing even when the world gives us reason to doubt. Like Thomas, we are called to move from doubt to belief, from fear to faith, from self-preservation to radical love.

Pope Francis showed us what Magis truly means not just "more", but the greater good, the deeper yes, the love that risks. His passing is a profound loss, but his legacy lives on in every act of mercy, every choice to love beyond reason, every moment risks in reaching out those in the peripheries, the last, the least, and the lost.

Today, as I remember Thomas' story, grieve the loss of Pope Francis, and look down at Magis curled at my feet, I am learning that faith isn't always bold and loud. Sometimes, it looks like showing up, like choosing to love even when you're scared, like seeing Christ in the ordinary and letting that be enough.

Prayer

Jesus, in my moments of doubt, draw near to me as You did to Thomas. Help me to recognize Your presence, not just in the extraordinary, but in the quiet, ordinary places of my life. Teach me to believe that life can come from death, hope can rise from despair, and love is never wasted. Strengthen my faith to follow You with courage, one step at a time. Amen.

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The Heartbeat of Easter

   

The Resurrection of the Lord

20 April 2025

 

First Reading: Acts 10:34a, 37-43

Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 118:1-2, 16-17, 22-23

Second Reading: Colossians 3:1-4 or 1 Corinthians 5:6b-8

Gospel: John 20:1-9

Reflection

By: Therese B. Manio

The Gospel of Easter Sunday tells a story that is both beautiful and mysterious. Mary Magdalene arrives at the tomb while it is still dark, only to find the stone rolled away. Peter and the beloved disciple come running, and though they don’t fully understand, they begin to believe. It’s a moment full of uncertainty, questions, and wonder but more than anything, it’s full of hope.

That same hope speaks to us today. Like those first followers of Jesus, we often walk through darkness, moments of grief, confusion, or waiting. Life throws challenges we don’t always understand. But just like the stone was already rolled away, God is already at work in our lives, even before we see it. The empty tomb isn’t just a part of the story—it’s a promise.

At first glance, Jesus dying on the cross might seem like a defeat. But it wasn’t. It was a victory, just not the kind the world expected. Jesus didn’t conquer with force. He overcame sin and death through forgiveness, mercy, and love. His Resurrection proved that love is stronger than hate, and hope is more powerful than fear. It wasn’t just about Jesus coming back to life, it was about all of us being given a chance at new life.

The Resurrection reminds us we are never truly alone. Jesus went through real pain, rejection, and fear. He knows what suffering feels like. But He also shows us that no pain, no failure, and no moment of darkness has the final word. There’s always more to the story. There’s always hope. God allowed Jesus to die and rise again so we could experience this hope for ourselves. He transforms what’s broken, makes new what was lost, and brings life where there seemed to be none. Every cross we carry can lead to a resurrection. That’s the core of our faith and the heartbeat of Easter.

In this Jubilee Year, with the theme “Pilgrims of Hope,” we are reminded that this journey isn’t just about us receiving hope, it’s about becoming hope for others. The world is full of people searching, grieving, or feeling stuck in the dark. We’re called to be like the beloved disciple who saw the signs and believed. We’re called to be like Mary, who ran to tell others: “I have seen the Lord.” Being an instrument of hope doesn’t always mean doing something huge. It could be listening to someone who’s hurting, offering kindness, or simply being there when someone needs you. In these small, quiet ways, we become living signs of the Resurrection.

As we walk through this Jubilee year together, may we carry the light of Easter in our hearts. Let us move forward with hope, not just for ourselves, but for everyone we meet. Because Christ is risen, and in Him, so is our hope.

Prayer

Risen Lord, thank You for the gift of Your love that conquers death and brings us everlasting hope. Help us to walk as true pilgrims of hope, carrying Your light into the lives of those around us. Give us the courage to believe, even in the darkness, and the grace to be signs of Your resurrection every day. Amen.

Pinupuno Tayo ni Hesus

    

Ikatlong Linggo ng Pasko ng Pagkabuhay

14 Abril 2024

 

Unang Pagbasa: Gawa 3:13-15, 17-19

Salmong Tugunan: Ps 4:2, 4, 7-8, 9

Ikalawang Pagbasa: 1 Jn 2:1-5a

Mabuting Balita: Lc 24:25-48

 

Pagninilay

Ni: Bro. Emerson C. Maala

Sa aking patuloy na paglalakbay sa probinsya ng Palawan, nakilala ko si Tatay Teofisto. Isang lider laiko sa kanilang kapilya. Masayang ibinahagi sa akin ni tatay Teofisto ang kanyang karanasan kung papaanong siya ay naging isang lingkod ni Kristo. Siya ay isang dating lasenggo at malayo ang loob sa kanyang pamilya. Nagbago raw ang kanyang buhay nang makilala niya si Hesus. Isang araw daw ay isinama siya ng isang kaibigan sa isang Parish Based Orientation Seminar (PBOS) at doon ay naengganyo hanggang sa maging isang laiko ministro at lider laiko ng kanilang kapilya. Tuwing umaga, siya ay masigasig na pupunta sa kapilya upang magdasal ng santo rosaryo bago pumunta sa bukid. Pagbabahagi niya, "Brad, simula nang makilala ko si Hesus, pakiramdam ko pa rin na marami akong naging pagkukulang, pagkukulang sa Kanya at sa aking Pamilya. Kaya araw-araw din akong nagrorosaryo dahil nararamdaman ko na Siya din ang patuloy na nagpupuno at yumayakap sa akin."

Sa mabuting balita, ipinakita ni Hesus ang patuloy na pagpupuno at pagyakap Niya sa mga apostol sa kabila ng kanyang dinanas na pagpapakasakit, kamatayan, at muling pagkabuhay. Bagamat nawala ang mga apostol sa mga huling sandali ni Hesus dahil na rin sa takot, na kahit si San Pedro na unang nagsabi na hindi niya iiwan ang Panginoon ngunit kanyang itinatwa nang maka-ikatlong ulit, hindi ito naging dahilan para na magpakita sa kanila si Hesus at sila'y patuloy na mahalin. Ang pagpapakita sa kanila ni Hesus ay tanda ng patuloy na pagpupuno at pagyakap ni Hesus sa kabila ng mga naging kakulangan ng mga alagad.

Dahil pa rin sa matinding takot, hindi nauunawaan ng mga Apostol ang mga pangyayaring ito. Nagugulumihanan, nalilito, at hindi alam kung anong nangyayari. Ngunit nang makipag-usap na sa kanila si Hesus, naintindihan nila ang lahat ng bagay, "Kinakailangang magbata ng hirap at mamatay ang Mesiyas at muling mabuhay sa ikatlong araw." 

Panalangin

Sa ating buhay, marami na rin tayong naging pagkukulang: nagkulang tayo bilang mga Anak, bilang mga magulang, bilang mga Kristiyano, o kaya naman ay bilang mga tao. Maaaring ang ilan sa atin ay bumalik sa mga dating gawain ng kasakiman, panlalamang, at panlilinlang.

Kaya patuloy rin tayong pinapaalalahanan nina San Pablo at San Juan na "magsisi at magbalik-loob sa Diyos upang pawiin Niya ang ating mga kasalanan.” Dahil sa kabila ng ating mga pagkukulang, pinupuno at niyayakap pa rin tayo ni Hesus bilang kanya. Amen.

Joyful Preparation

    

First Sunday of Lent

18 February 2024

 

First Reading: Gn 9:8-15

Responsorial Psalm: Ps 25:4-5, 6-7, 8-9

Second Reading: 1 Pt 3:18-22

Gospel: Mk 1:12-15

 

Reflection

By: Ma. Rosalina S. Flores

 

When Christmas is approaching, everyone gets excited counting down the days, playing Christmas songs, buying gifts, going to parties, preparing full blast for the occasion, exclaiming "It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year!"

But it is the exact opposite for the Lenten season. People tend to be quiet and could not wait any longer for the Holy Week to start so it will soon end.

Attending a Lenten formation this afternoon, I became more convinced that the Passion, Death, and Resurrection of Our Lord Jesus Christ which we commemorate during Holy Week is the heart of our liturgical year, the summit of our Catholic faith, the most joyful season because God gifted us the most precious present, our salvation.

Being aware of this joyful celebration that will happen on Easter Vigil, Rev. Fr. Genaro Diwa invited today's Lenten formation attendees to empty a big portion in their lives, ready for the huge gift from God.

The call to have a happy disposition this Lent is actually supported  by the Gospel Reading on Ash Wednesday saying that the Lord requests us to not look gloomy even when fasting, to not neglect our appearance just like what the hypocrites do. The three pillars of Lent: Prayer, Fasting, and Almsgiving should be complied with a cheerful disposition looking forward to God's promise of salvation.

This Lent, surely, we have already decided on the sacrifices we wish to offer as a penance. But more importantly, may we be guided of St. Benedict's quote "Let each one deny himself some food, drink, sleep, needless talking and idle jesting, and look forward to holy Easter with joy and spiritual longing." Let us savor the Lenten journey to Easter.

Prayer

Lord Jesus, thank You for the season of Lent, please accompany me in my 40-day preparation so that I may celebrate joyfully the Easter and Your Resurrection. This we ask in Your Name, Amen.

Shout Joyfully to God

    

Sixth Sunday of Easter

14 May 2023

 

First Reading: Acts 8:5-8, 14-17

Responsorial Psalm: Ps 66:1-3, 4-5, 6-7, 16, 20

Second Reading: 1 Pt 3:15-18

Gospel: Jn 14:15-21

 

Reflection

By: Fely C. Santiago

“Let all the earth cry out to God with joy”

Easter is truly a joyful season. The Lord has risen. His resurrection has given us so much hope and unexplainable joy. And because of this, the disciples finally has become bold and brave to spread and to proclaim the good news and the people paid attention because of the many miracles and signs that Jesus has done after His resurrection. And because of their increase faith, the disciples were able to also perform miracles and cast out unclean spirits, cured the paralyzed and crippled, and many accepted the word of God. There was great joy in the city.

When we also answer God’s call and mission for us, it brings immense joy. Our life should also live the Paschal Mystery of His death and resurrection. Our journey here on earth is not a smooth journey. We face different kinds of challenges and difficulties in doing the mission God has called us to do but it brings immense joy knowing that we serve our God by loving others and bringing the kingdom of God closer to all the people that we meet. When we truly love, we are ready to make sacrifices and submit to the will of God with loving obedience. And in doing this, we experience real joy that can only come from God.

Prayer

Dear Lord, as I spend time with You, I am aware of how blessed I truly am. I think of the love and laughter in my life and I feel grateful. Thank You for always being there for me Lord and for finding joy even in the midst of trials and difficulties. Give me the grace to experience Your joy in every moment of my life. Amen.

Beautiful Things in the End

   

  Thirty-second Sunday in Ordinary Time

06 November 2022 

 

First Reading: 2 Mc 7:1-2, 9-14

Responsorial Psalm: Ps 17:1, 5-6, 8, 15

Second Reading: 2 Thes 2:16-3:5

Gospel: Lk 20:27-38

 

Reflection

By: Bernard Borja

 

I love my wife. Even before I decided to court her, I prayed that she will be the one that God would let me spend my lifetime with. I cannot imagine a life without her. I feel a sting in my heart just a thought of losing her, or even leaving her. If God would call me home before her, I could not even fathom the thought of her being married again to another. No words from earth would ever describe the sorrow I would feel in purgatory if that happened. But how would I know if I would be sorrowful if I'm already a few steps getting to heaven? And if ever God would call her home, how would I know if we cannot re-live in heaven the happiness of being married to each other, even if she got married again after I left? Would it be awkward if we all see each other in heaven and she has two husbands? I hope God would not send me down again if ever I feel bitterness. Now I'm breaking my heart with just these thoughts.

Ardy Roberto, one of whom I consider my mentors, got married twice after his first wife dies. I also have friends who got married after their spouse was called to heaven. I can say that during their first marriage, they are blissful. They had a taste or glimpse of heaven even for a part of their lifetime. They had experienced one of the most beautiful things that God created. It's hard to imagine that the beautiful won't be carried on in the end.

One of our family dogs, Mint, died last year. He was ten years old. Days after he died, I was researching about dogs going to heaven, or somewhere he can "run free" as we say after a pet passes away. But most of the things I read was not in my favor, because some say that dogs do not go to heaven. During those ten years of Mint, our family has somehow given a glimpse of heaven through the emotions that the dog brings. I cried when he died not only because of having attached to a pet, but because those consoling memories just being with Mint, have somehow taught me how to look forward to more beautiful things in the end. I somehow refuse to believe that pets will not be in heaven in the end, nor they are not included in the Resurrection.

There was a legend about St. Augustine having taught by a child at the seashore. The story goes with Augustine took a walk along the beach having taken a break from frustration of studying The Holy Trinity. There was a little boy at the beach running back and forth to fill a tiny hole in the ground with seawater. Augustine asked, "What are you doing there?" The boy held up a shell he was using to scoop water and said, "I'm trying to fit that great big ocean into this tiny hole!" Augustine smiled, charmed by the little boy's innocence. After a few more attempts of the boy, Augustine said to him, "My child, you could never fit this great, magnificent ocean in that tiny hole!" The child did not flinch as he responded quickly, "And you could never possibly understand The Holy Trinity". Then in a flash, the boy disappeared.

We can never understand the mysteries of God all at once. Though God reveals it to us bit by bit, our wisdom of Resurrection and Heaven will still be limited in earthly words. But I believe that deep faith and love help us look forward to the beautiful things in the end. That the beautiful things here on earth shall be made more beautiful in heaven through God's way. I believe that when we all see each other in heaven, when we finally come to be raised again, all those joyful memories that we had on earth shall be re-lived, but more heavenly. Just like the Sadducees, I may continue to ask questions or look for assurance that Resurrection is much better, but I pray that I don't dwell on the thoughts that desolate and lessen my faith in God, who is the God of the living. I pray to keep my faith that in heaven, all of God's beautiful mysteries will be revealed to each of His children.

Prayer

Dear God, we thank You for letting us experience heaven here on earth. Despite our unbelief because of our limited knowledge, we pray that we may never lose sight of the Resurrection that has promised to us. That we may hold on to this without the doubts brought about by our own desire to seek Your wisdom. We also pray for those who have gone before us, our dearly departed that they may be consoled as they also look forward to more beautiful mysteries to be revealed. We ask these through our Lord Jesus Christ, Your Son, Who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, God forever and ever, Amen.

Christ is Risen!

 

 Easter Sunday of the Resurrection of the Lord

17 April 2022

 

First Reading: Acts 10:34a, 37-43

Responsorial Psalm: PS 118:1-2, 16-17, 22-23

Second Reading: COL 3:1-4 or 1 COR 5:6b-8

Gospel: JN 20:1-9

 

Reflection

By: Sem. Kenjie Viado

Grade 12, Our Lady of the Pillar Seminary, Diocese of Imus

Christ is risen, let us praise Him!

Today we celebrate the Easter of our Lord. Jesus rose from the dead, this resurrection is a sign of his insatiable love for us after he offered himself in suffering, pain, and death on the Cross.

As the Gospel says, the disciples of Jesus were surprised that they did not see the body of Jesus and they thought that Jesus was stolen from the tomb. Sometimes in our lives we experience that Jesus is already there but we still do not believe or trust. The resurrection of our Lord has crossed us so that we may live holy and virtuous lives. Jesus has self-sacrifice for us and this reminds us that he is the Way, the Truth and the Life. The challenge of the Gospel to us today is to keep Jesus alive and to continue to believe and trust in Him. We should keep this in mind as we celebrate the most wonderful and joyful celebration of Easter. 

May we never forget our duty in life as Catholics. We must follow the Lord and walk in His path, seeing the hope of His light and salvation, and the empty tomb that shows us hope with a path beyond, and beyond sin and death. Through Jesus, His loving sacrifice on the Cross and above all, His resurrection from the dead, showed us the path out of darkness into the light. May the joy of Our Risen Lord be with us always. May He grant us all to remain steadfast in the faith, to remain committed to Him, whatever challenges, trials, experiences, and temptations may be. May God bless us always, and may we all have a blessed celebration of Easter. Alleluia! Alleluia! Our Lord is Risen! Alleluia! Alleluia! Amen!

Prayer

Lord, Jesus, thank You for Your gift of Salvation through Your passion, death, and resurrection. As we celebrate Easter, in our rebirth with renewed faith and commitment to You and Your people.  May we bring joy, love, hope, and peace everywhere and to everyone we encounter. We ask this through Your Most Holy Name, Jesus, Amen.

 

Peace Be With You

Third Sunday of Easter

18 April 2021 

 

First Reading:  ACTS 3:13-15, 17-19

Responsorial Psalm:  PS 4:2, 4, 7-8, 9

Second Reading:  1 JN 2:1-5a

Gospel:  LK 24:35-48

 

Reflection

By: Fely C. Santiago

 

"Why are you troubled?"

 

God knows what we really need this time of Easter. It's amazing how words in the scriptures capture our attention. Even the disciples were still frightened themselves. Imagine losing their Lord and Teacher to death. They could not grasped why it had to happen. They did not yet understand that Jesus has to suffer, die, and will rise again. And in the midst of their anxiety, confusion, and doubts, God greets them. He also greets us "Peace be with you." I often feel like God really knows just what I need to hear and when. I don't know about you, but I'm yearning for more peace during this Easter season.

In this season of CoVid-19 pandemic (sorry if I have been reflecting on the pandemic again) especially here in the Philippines where positive cases continue to rise, our hospitals are filled to the capacity, our health workers are just so exhausted, we just need the greetings of God "Peace be with you." We really can't help but be afraid especially we see people already close to us getting afflicted and suffering from CoVid-19. This is for real.

Today, we really do not understand why it is happening. But just like Jesus who said to them, "These are my words that I spoke to you while I was still with you, that everything written about me in the law of Moses and in the prophets and psalms must be fulfilled."  Then He opened their minds to understand the scriptures. And He said to them, "Thus it is written that the Christ would suffer and rise from the dead  on the third day and that repentance, for the forgiveness  of sins, would be preached in His name to all the nations, beginning in Jerusalem. You are witnesses of these things."

 

Our mission continues to share the good news of Christ no matter where we are, what we are experiencing right now. We must continue to spread the good news of God's love. That He is present in our suffering because He suffered Himself.

Let me share the lyrics of this beautiful song because there are also words from the Lord that He will be ever with us.

I Am Ever With You

Fr. Arnel Aquino, SJ

Do not let your hearts be troubled

Do not stay afraid

It is really I whom you see

I offer you now my peace

I have waited for this moment

To be with you again

In my heart you'll remain

In your heart I'll stay

I am with you, till the end of your days

I am in you, have faith

That I hold you

Even when you let go

And I love you,

You must know. I am here. I am ever with you.

 

Do not let your hearts be troubled

Do not stay afraid

I'm beyond all anguish all death

I'm risen to life anew.

 

When you feel that you've been emptied

And can give no more

Know that I am your breath and I fill your soul.

I am with you, till the end of your days

I am in you, have faith

That I hold you

Even when you let go

And I love you.

You must know I am here. I am ever with you.

 

Prayer

 

Dear Jesus, many people are suffering, confused, afraid, worried, anxious right now,. Where are You Lord? Lord, we know that You are here with us in our suffering and pain. Please continue to strengthen us. Give us the grace of complete trust and confidence in You. Increase our hope that one day, all shall be well. All these I pray in the mighty Name of Jesus, Amen.

 

 

 

The Lord is Risen!

Easter Sunday

The Resurrection of the Lord

4 April 2021 

 

First Reading:  ACTS 10:34a, 37-43

Responsorial Psalm:  PS 118:1-2, 16-17, 22-23

Second Reading:  COL 3:1-4, 22-23

Gospel:  JN 20:1-9

 

Reflection

By: Fely C. Santiago

 

"For they did not yet understand the Scripture that He had to rise from the dead."

Today is a very joyous day because it is Resurrection Sunday! This is the day the Lord has made, let us rejoice and be glad! The Lenten days of fasting, almsgiving, and repenting are over. Christ's resurrection vividly demonstrates that love is always stronger than fear or hate or even death. Certainly, something to celebrate. And given what we have all been through this past year, we all really need reasons to celebrate, to find joy and reason for our hope. We just came out of the dark days of Good Friday and experience the fullness of Christ's light on Easter!

Maybe some of us would fret at these words, what is there to rejoice when we are in the midst of a pandemic? Many people are dying, our health workers and front liners are tired, the CoVid-19 cases are rising even with vaccination going on already. Where are You, Lord? People are anxious, worried, frustrated. At these moments, it may seem less clear how the Easter story is our story.

Let us take comfort in knowing that this is exactly the situation of Jesus' friends and followers not only during His Passion, but even in the earliest days of the Resurrection. It took time for them to recognize the reality of the Resurrection. The truth of the Easter Sunday is that God's love is victorious. That is the essence of our faith. Good still wins out over evil. Life wins out over death.

Remember that it is not our action that makes Easter happen. Rather, it is about taking the time to be attentive to God's creative action. God's unstoppable love resurrected Jesus from the dead. And it is God's love and not our own action that will lead to our own resurrections—both our bodily resurrections (someday) and the ways we experience new life now, in the midst of fear, suffering, grief, and even death.

Our part is simply to acknowledge our feelings, pay attention, wonder, and pray.

• If I am feeling emptiness or grief, I can bring my sense of emptiness to God and, like Mary Magdalene, wait for God, paying attention to where I might find new life beyond the tomb.
• If I am feeling fear and am shut inside my own room, I can bring those fears to God and know that God will enter right into that space with me. God can surprise me beyond the confines of my own understanding.
• If I am feeling doubt, I can express these doubts to God and, like Thomas, wonder how God invites me to touch the reality of the Resurrection.
• If I am feeling a desire for increased connection with God, I can let God walk with me, talk with me, and even "feed" me with the divine presence. I can let myself love God and let God love me in turn.

The Lord is risen. There is reason for hope. There is light at the end of the tunnel. There is a silver lining amidst the dark clouds.

 

Prayer

 

Lord Jesus, I know You are here with us right now, walking with us, consoling us, embracing us, loving us. We just need to be aware and conscious of Your presence. Let me not be afraid . Let me receive Your peace. Thank You Jesus and all these we pray in Your Name. Amen.