Let’s play hide and seek: Looking for the reasons that are hidden

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Do you remember your childhood game called hide & seek?

We played that game.

In Filipino culture, we call the game ” Tagu-an”.

The mechanics is simple.

All players must hide….

Warning: time alotted is unlimited….

A person called the It…

goes to a tree or brick wall…

chanting the game song

Counts at the end of the song….

1…2…3…

The It now finds all the hidden players.

As grown ups…

We have our own version of hide & seek.

There are times, we do not understand….

The reasons….

Or events in our lives…

Why it is happening to us?

The reasons…

As if…

kept hidden by God…

From us.

Why God?

Gospel today mentions apostles can not understand Jesus’ words.

The wisdom to understand Jesus was hidden…

On purpose…

From them…

Even the apostles were afraid.

Apostles are like you & me.

They feel fear.

At times, they don’t understand God’s plans.

Yes.

We at times feel that way.

Why God’s plans does not make sense to me?

It does not fit in with my plans.

God’s reasons are hidden from me.

God sometimes hide the reasons….

So we could trust Him more.

When we are in the middle of our trials…

We know someday all the pieces of the puzzle will come in place.

We will find the hidden reason…

Of our trials & pain….

Thru God’s wisdom….

On His set perfect time.

First reading is about Zechariah seeing angel with a ruler. God promises He will dwell with us.

God tells us He is our wall of fire.

First Reading ZECHARIAH 2:5-9, 14-15

And I lifted my eyes and saw, and behold, a man with a measuring line in his hand! Then I said, “Where are you going?” And he said to me, “To measure Jerusalem, to see what is its breadth and what is its length.” And behold, the angel who talked with me came forward, and another angel came forward to meet him, and said to him, “Run, say to that young man, `Jerusalem shall be inhabited as villages without walls, because of the multitude of men and cattle in it. For I will be to her a wall of fire round about, says the LORD, and I will be the glory within her.'” Sing and rejoice, O daughter of Zion; for lo, I come and I will dwell in the midst of you, says the LORD. And many nations shall join themselves to the LORD in that day, and shall be my people; and I will dwell in the midst of you, and you shall know that the LORD of hosts has sent me to you.

What do these verses mean to me?

● Zechariah was seeing angels in a vision

● I like that angels like math, they carry a ruler (measuring line)

● Angels are intelligent

“To measure Jerusalem, to see what is its breadth & what is its length.” – angel of God

● God promises prosperity for Jerusalem: increase in people & cattle

`Jerusalem shall be inhabited as villages without walls, because of the multitude of men & cattle in it. For I will be to her a wall of fire round about, says the LORD, and I will be the glory within her.'”

● God is our wall of fire & our glory

● God promises He will dwell with us

● Jesus born to the world is the fulfillment of that promise

Sing & rejoice, O daughter of Zion; for lo, I come & I will dwell in the midst of you, says the LORD. & many nations shall join themselves to the LORD in that day, and shall be my people; and I will dwell in the midst of you, and you shall know that the LORD of hosts has sent me to you.

Gospel LUKE 9:43-45

And all were astonished at the majesty of God. But while they were all marveling at everything he did, he said to his disciples, “Let these words sink into your ears; for the Son of man is to be delivered into the hands of men.” But they did not understand this saying, and it was concealed from them, that they should not perceive it; and they were afraid to ask him about this saying.

What do these verses mean to me?

Luke 9:37-43:

A father asked Jesus to heal his possessed son.

Disciples can not expel the spirit.

● Jesus healed the boy

● All astonished by majesty of God thru Jesus’ work

● while everyone marveling….

Jesus said to his disciples

“Let these words sink into your ears; for the Son of man is to be delivered into the hands of men.”

Apostles

– did not understand

– concealed from them

– should not perceive it

– afraid to ask Jesus about it

Apostles are imperfect people.

Like you & me.

Afraid & can not understand what Jesus said.

What does this relate to Jesus?

Jesus was the disciples’ daily companion, yet at times…

Jesus does not make sense…

When we feel we do not understand God & his plans at times…

Remember, we are like the apostles.

It is okay if we do not understand Jesus, at times.

At times the reason is hidden.

God allows it.

Jesus wants to know….

Do we could trust Him?

when God’s plans does not make sense.

How much do we trust God when it does not make sense anymore?

If you trust God more than anything you believe in…

You have strong faith.

And that is what Jesus wants to see.

Faith in the impossible.

Thru the name of Jesus.

Why did Jesus have to mention his suffering in the middle of happiness of his disciples?

No sugar coat.

● Emotionally preparing them for His greater mission on the cross

● To be emotionally equipt continuing His work

Jesus saw the disciples to a certain extent, had less faith reflected on failure of healing the boy

But Jesus entrusted authority over demons.

● Disciples to have more faith in themselves for His mission

What does it relate to the future?

● Have more faith in Jesus

● When we trust Jesus, we are more emotionally equipped

● Be confident that Jesus entrusted authority to you as a baptized Catholic Christian

● Trust Jesus more even when you do not understand Him

● Apostles have flaws like you & me

● Apostles are also afraid at some point

● Jesus tells the truth of His suffering on the cross

● Trust God’s plans when the reason is hidden from you

The God who restores and brigthens our eyes

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What brightens your eyes?

What makes you happy?

Women, put on make up to brighten shades of their eyes.

What will make your eyes shine out of happiness?

Is it family relationship restoration?

career promotion?

Bonding with your son or daughter?

Or romantic date with your spouse?

We all have dreams.

We long to reach them.

Good news: God is with us in every step reaching for the dream.

First reading today mentions Ezra apologizing to God. Jews were restored in Judea from slaves of Babylon.

Jews still retained practices not pleasing to God.

But God never left the Jews in their slavery.

God brightened their eyes by restoration as free people.

We have a God who brightens our eyes when we have trials.

A God who plans on restoration of our broken dreams.

Gospel today mentions Jesus sending his apostles to preach & heal people.

There are road blocks on this mission.

The 12 apostles instructed not to carry bag, bread or money.

How can they survive?

But the 12 apostles pushed thru.

They believed in Jesus.

They have nothing in their hands.

But God provided everything they need.

If you experienced nothing while serving God like I do, this is just a test.

When we have nothing, God’s grace will flow more to us to have everything we need.

God provides all the time.

He is our Father who knows what we need.

Wed Sept 25 2019

First Reading EZRA 9:5-9

And at the evening sacrifice I rose from my fasting, with my garments and my mantle rent, and fell upon my knees and spread out my hands to the LORD my God, saying: “O my God, I am ashamed and blush to lift my face to thee, my God, for our iniquities have risen higher than our heads, and our guilt has mounted up to the heavens. From the days of our fathers to this day we have been in great guilt; and for our iniquities we, our kings, and our priests have been given into the hand of the kings of the lands, to the sword, to captivity, to plundering, and to utter shame, as at this day. But now for a brief moment favor has been shown by the LORD our God, to leave us a remnant, and to give us a secure hold within his holy place, that our God may brighten our eyes and grant us a little reviving in our bondage. For we are bondmen; yet our God has not forsaken us in our bondage, but has extended to us his steadfast love before the kings of Persia, to grant us some reviving to set up the house of our God, to repair its ruins, and to give us protection in Judea and Jerusalem.

People reported to Ezra: Jews maintained practices not pleasing to God in restoration to Judea by the Kings of Persia

What do these verses mean to me?

● Jews as children of God are disobedient

● Ezra apologizes to God

At evening sacrifice Ezra rose from fasting.

But now for a brief moment favor has been shown by the LORD our God, to leave us a remnant, and to give us a secure hold within his holy place, that our God may brighten our eyes and grant us a little reviving in our bondage.

● God’s restoration is a favor from God

● God brightens Jews eyes

God also brightens our eyes when we are sad.

God’s restoration to Jews:

● leaves them remnant

● secured them with holy temple

● give protection

● allowed restoration of temple

Bondmen: means slave

For we are bondmen yet our God has not forsaken us in our bondage, but has extended to us his steadfast love before the kings of Persia – Ezra

● Ezra tells God they were slaves

But Ezra declares God did not leave them in times of their slavery.

Ezra declares God’s steadfast love to Jews.

Declare God’s steadfast love everyday like Ezra.

We have a God that does not leave in the middle of our trials.

Gospel LUKE 9:1-6

And he called the twelve together and gave them power and authority over all demons and to cure diseases, and he sent them out to preach the kingdom of God and to heal. And he said to them, “Take nothing for your journey, no staff, nor bag, nor bread, nor money; and do not have two tunics. And whatever house you enter, stay there, and from there depart. And wherever they do not receive you, when you leave that town shake off the dust from your feet as a testimony against them.” And they departed and went through the villages, preaching the gospel and healing everywhere.

What do these verses mean to me?

Jesus said:

Take nothing for your journey, no staff, nor bag, nor bread, nor money; & do not have two tunics

Mission Road block # 1: Detachments & loss of security

– Serving God needs detachments

– Loss of security & predictability

If you are part of the 12 apostles….

You would say:

Hurray I have the power & authority of God!

But wait…

What will I eat along the journey?

Why does Jesus want his disciples not to carry anything?

Even bag, bread or even money?

How can you serve God without food & money?

A lot people will say no to the calling of God without security.

But the 12 apostles stood firm.

Get on with the mission…

even if I have nothing on hand.

All I have is Jesus & his mission.

God will provide for my needs.

Did the 12 apostles die because of hunger?

No.

They survived.

Because God provided.

Mission Road block # 2: Rejection

whatever house you enter, stay there & from there depart. And wherever they do not receive you, when you leave that town shake off the dust from your feet as a testimony against them – Jesus

● Apostles can be accepted or rejected

Imagine yourself as the apostle…

Walking under the sun…

Hungry, thirsty & no bag…

Then the house you entered rejected you…

You will feel bad…

If rejected, accept it.

But you do not force them to like you.

Shake the dust of your feet means remove any bad memory of that rejection.

Rejection is part of it…

But move on to the next person….

Or next mission of God for you…

The mission for 12 apostles was not easy.

The apostles were tested along the way with their faith.

Why continue if you will be rejected?

Jesus tells us to accept rejection along the way.

As servants, we will be tested.

If the 12 apostles experienced it…

But they survived…

And we will survive…

Because we believe we can push through any road blocks we face….

Through the powerful name of Jesus.

What does it relate to Jesus?

● Jesus picked the 12 apostles, but has flaws as people

● Jesus calls us for a specific purpose even with flaws

● Jesus: source of power & authority

● Jesus gave 12 apostles power & authority:

– over all demons

– to cure diseases

– sent to preach the kingdom of God

– to heal

12 apostles preaching about messiah they are looking for is Jesus. Fulfilling God’s promises.

● Jesus does not sugarcoat

● Jesus tells the truth even if it will hurt his apostles

What does it relate to the future?

● Serving God & believing in miracles go together

● Believe that God will provide

● We will survive & push through with road blocks

● Jesus is more powerful than any mission road block

● Rejection is part of our servant’s journey

● If people reject you, accept it

● You can not please everyone

● Jesus called you for specific purpose for His Kingdom

● You have the authority & power in Jesus name to heal people, preach & over demons

● Preach Jesus everywhere

● Serve God even if you have little

● Serve God when you have nothing for He will provide everything

God rules over kings

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Leadership has gone across time.

From tribal kings to kings of vast empires.

Kings were written in history.

We are designed to find someone to rule over us.

For important decisions.

But No matter who is the king…..

We have King of Kings.

God rules over kings.

First reading today mentions God inspiring different leaders to set Jews free.

Different foreign kings directed to finish construction of the house of God in Jerusalem.

We can see ….

When God has a plan…

Even kings bow down to that Great Plan of God.

Even kings bown down to the restoration of God’s people.

Do we bow down & allow God to rule over our will?

Like what He did to King Cyrus & King Darius?

We should.

Gospel today tells about Jesus mentioning those who follows God are his brothers & sisters.

For Catholics, it is not just a Church.

We belong to this big spiritual family.

In Jesus’ eyes, we are family.

It is up to us to say yes to be part of this heavenly family.

Tuesday Sept 24 2019

First Reading EZRA 6:7-8, 12, 14-20

let the work on this house of God alone; let the governor of the Jews and the elders of the Jews rebuild this house of God on its site. Moreover I make a decree regarding what you shall do for these elders of the Jews for the rebuilding of this house of God; the cost is to be paid to these men in full and without delay from the royal revenue, the tribute of the province from Beyond the River. May the God who has caused his name to dwell there overthrow any king or people that shall put forth a hand to alter this, or to destroy this house of God which is in Jerusalem. I Darius make a decree; let it be done with all diligence.” And the elders of the Jews built and prospered, through the prophesying of Haggai the prophet and Zechari’ah the son of Iddo. They finished their building by command of the God of Israel and by decree of Cyrus and Darius and Ar-ta-xerx’es king of Persia; and this house was finished on the third day of the month of Adar, in the sixth year of the reign of Darius the king. And the people of Israel, the priests and the Levites, and the rest of the returned exiles, celebrated the dedication of this house of God with joy. They offered at the dedication of this house of God one hundred bulls, two hundred rams, four hundred lambs, and as a sin offering for all Israel twelve he-goats, according to the number of the tribes of Israel. And they set the priests in their divisions and the Levites in their courses, for the service of God at Jerusalem, as it is written in the book of Moses. On the fourteenth day of the first month the returned exiles kept the passover. For the priests and the Levites had purified themselves together; all of them were clean. So they killed the passover lamb for all the returned exiles, for their fellow priests, and for themselves;

Situation in the story: Jew Exiles in Babylon to be freed from slavery & return to Judah.

A new king oversees God’s house.

For years, exiles are not sure if they will be able to come back to Jerusalem.

Now excited to come back & worship God in Judah.

What do these verses mean to me?

● New leader continued previous work of King Cyrus

● Different leaders yet similar goals: finish God’s house construction

● All foreigners but recognize God & his house

God inspires kings to fulfill His plans.

God fulfilled his promises to Judah spoken by prophets.

God is a faithful God.

King Darius, a new leader decreed:

– let work on this house of God alone

– let governor of Jews & elders of Jews rebuild this house of God on its site

I make a decree regarding what you shall do for these elders of Jews for rebuilding this house of God: the cost is to be paid to these men in full & without delay from the royal revenue, the tribute of the province from Beyond the River – King Darius

● King Darius, a foreigner fully paid God’s house construction

● Jews did not have to pay for their temple

● God can work in his mysterious ways for His house & His people

God can restore anything.

For a slave, this is freedom.

For a believer of God, this is a clear sign of restoration

Freedom+temple built = freedom to worship God in your place

May the God who has caused his name to dwell there overthrow any king or people that shall put forth a hand to alter this, or to destroy this house of God which is in Jerusalem. – King Darius

● Even a king recognizes God’s name dwells in Jerusalem

● King Darius says: king will be overthrown if he destroys the house of God

● King Darius respects God & his Jerusalem temple

let it be done with all diligence – King Darius

● Give our best to God

● elders of Jews built & prospered, through prophesying of Haggai the prophet & Zechari’ah the son of Iddo.

They finished building by command of:

– the God of Israel

– decree of Cyrus

– decree of Darius

– decree of Ar-ta-xerx’es king of Persia

● God’s house finished on 3rd day of Adar month, 6th year reign of King Darius

●People of Israel, priests, Levites, & the rest of returned exiles, celebrated the dedication of house of God with joy

● They offered at dedication:

– 100 bulls

– 200 rams

– 400 lambs

sin offering for all Israel: 12 he-goats, according to number of Israel tribes

● Set priests in their divisions & Levites in their courses, for service of God at Jerusalem, written in book of Moses

● On 14th day of 1st month, returned exiles kept passover

● Priests & Levites purified themselves together

● all of them were clean

● They killed passover lamb for all the returned exiles, for their fellow priests, & for themselves

Gospel LUKE 8:19-21

Then his mother and his brothers came to him, but they could not reach him for the crowd. And he was told, “Your mother and your brothers are standing outside, desiring to see you.” But he said to them, “My mother and my brothers are those who hear the word of God and do it.”

What do these verses mean to me?

● Mother Mary & apostles are looking for Jesus

● These people love Jesus

● Jesus loves his mother & apostles but wants more room for new followers of God

What does it relate to Jesus?

● Jesus wants to extend his family

Who are the new members of Jesus’ family?

– People who hear the word of God

– People who follow God’s commandments

● The word of God in Jesus time is thru preaching & hearing

● there is no published written book called new testament yet in Jesus’ time

● We can not follow God until we learn to listen first

● Be a listener of God’s word first

● Jesus teaches us family is not just thru blood lines

It is not about who is your father & mother

It is about following your God the Father in heaven

Jesus point of view:

– You can modify family members

– It is our choice to be part of God’s family by following God

– Jesus looks at us as family, not just believers of God

– As family, Jesus takes care of us

– Jesus takes care of those who follow God’s commandments

What does it relate to the future?

● Follow God’s commandments

● Be part of God’s family

● Choose to be Jesus’ family

● We are all part of this big spiritual family

● We are family in Jesus’ eyes

We need the right people

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We live in a world filled with people.

But do not have the time to meet them all.

Have we talked to our country’s president?

All presidents have busy schedule.

Since people & leaders are too busy, how can they help us out?

God chooses the right people for us.

To help us out.

The first reading today mentions God’s inspiration flowing thru a foreigner.

The mighty King of Cyrus the Great of Persia.

Even in history, he is mentioned as a wise king.

God chose him to set Jews free from slavery.

Sometimes we recieve God’s blessings thru other people.

God sends us right people for us to be blessed.

The right people are blessed also by God’s wisdom.

Be humble to recognize…

You need people…

You need God’s people to be blessed.

No man is an island.

Gospel today mentions there is no secret that will be hidden. A lamp should not be hidden for everyone to see.

It is God who reveals hidden secrets.

God reveals the truth.

Allow God’s light to shine on you for everyone to see.

Allow God’s light to be a blessing for the world.

Mon Sept 23 2019

FIRST READING Ez 1:1-6

In order to fulfill the word of the LORD spoken by Jeremiah, the LORD inspired King Cyrus of Persia to issue this proclamation throughout his kingdom, both by word of mouth and in writing: “Thus says Cyrus, king of Persia: ‘All the kingdoms of the earth the LORD, the God of heaven, has given to me, and he has also charged me to build him a house in Jerusalem, which is in Judah. Therefore, whoever among you belongs to any part of his people, let him go up, and may his God be with him! Let everyone who has survived, in whatever place he may have dwelt, be assisted by the people of that place with silver, gold, goods, and cattle, together with free-will offerings for the house of God in Jerusalem.’” Then the family heads of Judah and Benjamin and the priests and Levites— everyone, that is, whom God had inspired to do so— prepared to go up to build the house of the LORD in Jerusalem. All their neighbors gave them help in every way, with silver, gold, goods, and cattle, and with many precious gifts besides all their free-will offerings.

What do these verses mean to me?

We are in the exile time of Jews to Babylon.

King Cyrus, the Persian king used by God to set free the Israelites.

● Persia: modern day Iran, Middle east

● God inspired King Cyrus though he is not an Israelite

Even if we are not an israelite, we are also inspired by God.

● God wanted His words to be fulfilled spoken by Jeremiah

God wants to fulfill His promises.

An issue of proclamation throughout kingdom, both word of mouth & writing:

“Thus says Cyrus, king of Persia: ‘All the kingdoms of the earth the LORD, the God of heaven, has given to me, & he has also charged me to build him a house in Jerusalem, which is in Judah.

Why would a foreigner build a house of God to a far away place?

Why Jerusalem?

If you are a king, it will take much effort to have a house of God in Judah.

Truly a God inspired idea.

Therefore, whoever among you belongs to any part of his people, let him go up, and may his God be with him!

● This King is filled with God’s wisdom

● God sends the right people to bless us

Let everyone who has survived, in whatever place he may have dwelt, be assisted by the people of that place with silver, gold, goods, and cattle, together with free-will offerings for the house of God in Jerusalem.

● God’s blessings were not just freedom from slavery

God provided even material needs of His people

They were not empty handed.

They carried:

– silver

– gold

– goods

– cattle

– many precious gifts

– together with free-will offerings for house of God in Jerusalem

When you are set free….

You become happy & inspired.

Grateful to God….

● Family heads of Judah, Benjamin, priests & Levites— everyone, whom God inspired to do so— prepared to go up to build the house of the LORD in Jerusalem

● All their neighbors gave them help in every way

GOSPEL Luke 8:16-18

Jesus said to the crowd: “No one who lights a lamp conceals it with a vessel or sets it under a bed; rather, he places it on a lampstand so that those who enter may see the light. For there is nothing hidden that will not become visible, and nothing secret that will not be known and come to light. Take care, then, how you hear. To anyone who has, more will be given, and from the one who has not, even what he seems to have will be taken away.”

What do these verses mean to me?

● God can provide us more or take away anything if He wants to

● Jesus tells the crowd

“No one who lights a lamp conceals it with a vessel or sets it under a bed; rather, he places it on a lampstand so that those who enter may see the light.

There is no electricity is Jesus time.

They have oil lamps.

This type of lamp can not be hidden.

Burning with fire & hot.

Lghts up the room.

You can not even place it under your bed.

Oil lamps in Jesus’ time are designed to be seen.

The light guides people inside their house at night.

The light fills a need….

To dispel darkness…

What does it relate to Jesus ?

● Jesus wants us to dispel darkness

● Jesus tells us we can not hide anything

For there is nothing hidden that will not become visible, & nothing secret that will not be known and come to light.

Do we love to keeping secrets?

Nothing is hidden from God.

● Jesus wants us to listen carefully:

Take care, then, how you hear

Personal experience:

It came as a shock.

Like a bomb exploded to me.

Someone has hidden an awful secret from me.

God revealed what was hidden.

As I experienced it today.

A revelation.

Thru written formal document.

As Shocking as it may seem….

It was painful to accept the awful truth.

But I know…

God has a purpose for revealing that hidden truth.

God has a purpose for me to be enlightened.

To fix the errors made 54 years ago.

That error is even older than me.

God will equipt me to put it back in order.

Not for me alone.

Also for the people I love.

What does it relate to the future?

● Do not hide awful secrets

● Following God is seen thru our actions

● Our faith should not be hidden

● Dispel darkness

● Be the light of Jesus in the world

● know your purpose as a light of Jesus when it becomes darker

For God upholds the truth

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There are times we do not know the truth anymore.

People now could lie digitally or in the real life.

With social media posts, even facts can be distorted by anyone with the right editing app.

Fake news comes up.

Misinformation can happen thru the internet.

In real life, deceitful people will fake their records, feelings or even friends….

To get the money they want.

From victims they chose to manipulate.

Fooling people displeases God.

Lies hurt people.

Hurt relationships.

Hurt families.

Even hurt the next generation of families for hidden lies once uncovered.

God does not like lies.

God upholds the truth.

Sunday Gospel mentions Jesus encouraging us to be trustworthy with the little we have….

To be entrusted more….

Forgive how God forgave you.

We can not serve money & lies

and God at the same time.

Follow God.

First reading mentions God knows if people trample upon the needy & the poor.

God loves those who are dependent on Him.

Do not bring deceit to God’s loved people.

Be true to God’s people.

Second reading is about St.Paul reminding Ephesians to pray for all men & our leaders to have a peaceful & godly life.

Decisions of our leaders affect us.

St.Paul reminds us that everywhere, there should be people praying.

Praying without argument or quarreling.

St.Paul wants prayer for us.

Not division.

Not fights among ourselves.

Sun sept 22 2019

First Reading AMOS 8:4-7

Hear this, you who trample upon the needy, and bring the poor of the land to an end, saying, “When will the new moon be over, that we may sell grain? And the sabbath, that we may offer wheat for sale, that we may make the ephah small and the shekel great, and deal deceitfully with false balances, that we may buy the poor for silver and the needy for a pair of sandals, and sell the refuse of the wheat?” The LORD has sworn by the pride of Jacob: “Surely I will never forget any of their deeds.

What do these verses mean to me?

The LORD has sworn by the pride of Jacob: Surely I will never forget any of their deeds.

Who will God never forget the deeds?

Why?

GOD will not forget the unjust & their wrong deeds:

– who trample on needy

– deal deceitfully with false balances

– buy poor & needy for a cheap price.

God will not forget their wrong & deceitful deeds.

We could see that God himself will not forget also..

His loved people.

The needy people.

The poor people.

People poor not just in money.

People weakened by hopelessness, struggles & trials.

He has special attention for people who need Him the most.

God is a God of all.

The just God.

Second Reading 1 TIMOTHY 2:1-8

First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all men, for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life, godly and respectful in every way. This is good, and it is acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. For there is one God, and there is one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus, who gave himself as a ransom for all, the testimony to which was borne at the proper time. For this I was appointed a preacher and apostle (I am telling the truth, I am not lying), a teacher of the Gentiles in faith and truth. I desire then that in every place the men should pray, lifting holy hands without anger or quarreling;

What do these verses mean to me?

● A letter of St.Paul to Timothy & Christians in Ephesus

I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all men, for kings and all who are in high positions – St.Paul

● St.Paul tells us to pray for:

– government leaders & government staff

– Catholic Church leaders like the Pope, Archbishop, Bishop, priests & nun

– lay leaders in parishes & other servants in the parishes

– leaders in Catholic communities (Charismatic groups)

– All people

● In St.Paul’s time & even in our time, these leaders are not perfect.

They have flaws.

That’s why we need to pray for them.

Why?

St.Paul says

so we may lead a quiet & peaceable life, godly & respectful in every way.

St.Paul sees effects of leader decisions in government & anyone in authority over us.

If there is anything you do not like about your country, government, church & society….

PRAY for your LEADERS.

Pray for all MEN.

This is good & acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all men to be saved & come to the knowledge of the truth – St.Paul

● God wants everyone to be saved

For there is 1 God, & there is 1 mediator between God & men, the man Christ Jesus, who gave himself as ransom for all, the testimony to which was borne at the proper time – St.Paul

● Jesus, our mediator to God the Father

● Jesus paid for our sins thru his death on the cross

●St.Paul was appointed as a preacher & apostle

●St.Paul, a teacher of Gentiles in faith & truth

I desire then that in every place the men should pray, lifting holy hands without anger or quarreling – St.Paul

Do we follow St.Paul about people praying in every

place?

Sad to say, not everyone wants to pray today in our world.

Urge people to pray.

For a future of great life.

When we pray, we should not be angry.

Lift our hands when we pray.

We do not quarrel among ourselves in the Church.

Remove quarreling with each other.

Gospel LUKE 16:1-13

He also said to the disciples, “There was a rich man who had a steward, and charges were brought to him that this man was wasting his goods. And he called him and said to him, `What is this that I hear about you? Turn in the account of your stewardship, for you can no longer be steward.’ And the steward said to himself, `What shall I do, since my master is taking the stewardship away from me? I am not strong enough to dig, and I am ashamed to beg. I have decided what to do, so that people may receive me into their houses when I am put out of the stewardship.’ So, summoning his master’s debtors one by one, he said to the first, `How much do you owe my master?’ He said, `A hundred measures of oil.’ And he said to him, `Take your bill, and sit down quickly and write fifty.’ Then he said to another, `And how much do you owe?’ He said, `A hundred measures of wheat.’ He said to him, `Take your bill, and write eighty.’ The master commended the dishonest steward for his shrewdness; for the sons of this world are more shrewd in dealing with their own generation than the sons of light. And I tell you, make friends for yourselves by means of unrighteous mammon, so that when it fails they may receive you into the eternal habitations. “He who is faithful in a very little is faithful also in much; and he who is dishonest in a very little is dishonest also in much. If then you have not been faithful in the unrighteous mammon, who will entrust to you the true riches? And if you have not been faithful in that which is another’s, who will give you that which is your own? No servant can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon.”

What do these verses mean to me?

● Be faithful with the little

● If God can trust you more when you are trust worthy with the little

● If you want promotion for a bigger authority, be faithful on your small tasks

● Follow God & his commandments

● We can not serve God with other gods

● Do what is right & pleasing to the eyes of God

● If God can forgive you so much, then forgive others as well

What does it relate to Jesus?

● Jesus wants us to be honest

● Jesus wants usto forgive others the way God forgave us

● Jesus wants us to be trust worthy

What does it relate to the future?

● Be honest

● Be trustworthy

●God knows the truth

● God loves the truth

● God forgives us

● Forgive the way God forgive you

Fight the good fight of the faith – St.Paul

Do you watch boxing?

We Filipinoes watch boxing when a fellow Filipino fights in the ring.

Like Manny Pacquiao.

He had lost fights, some were draws.

Some were winnings with belts for his award.

I have been watching some of his fights even before Barrera, covered by RPN channel 9.

An influence of my cousin.

My cousin was a neighbor of a member of team Pacquio, Buboy Villanueva. And Pacman was practicing in Manila, near his place.

Buboy asks his neighbors to watch Manny fight in the ring.

Manny was not yet famous then.

The rest is history for Manny.

We as Catholic Christians are like Manny Pacquiao.

St.Paul says fight the good fight of the faith in the first reading.

Why fight?

We have to stand firm with what we believe from Jesus & Catholic Church teachings.

The world contradicts the Catholic Church.

St.Paul says pass the teachings of Jesus to others.

Any ideas that contradict the Jesus & Church will divide believers.

St.Paul wants us to be united, supporting the Catholic Faith as believers.

What side are we on?

Current issues Philippine Catholic Church faces: Divorce, Sogie Bill for LGBTQ, abortion, younger catholics engage in premarital sex & live in together without marriage

Praying together of the family for rosary has greatly diminished.

Going to Catholic Church on sunday mass as a family has been infrequent.

The times have really changed for Filipino families.

But we can continue what St.Paul wants.

Study the Jesus & Church teachings & obey.

Change our life & let Jesus enter our families & lifestyle.

Honor God.

Unite with the teachings of God & Jesus.

Stand up for the Catholic Church and its firm stand on issues.

We will be confused when we try to compromise Catholic beliefs with the world.

There is no compromise.

Sept 20, 2019 Friday

First Reading 1 TIMOTHY 6:2-12

Those who have believing masters must not be disrespectful on the ground that they are brethren; rather they must serve all the better since those who benefit by their service are believers and beloved. Teach and urge these duties. If any one teaches otherwise and does not agree with the sound words of our Lord Jesus Christ and the teaching which accords with godliness, he is puffed up with conceit, he knows nothing; he has a morbid craving for controversy and for disputes about words, which produce envy, dissension, slander, base suspicions, and wrangling among men who are depraved in mind and bereft of the truth, imagining that godliness is a means of gain. There is great gain in godliness with contentment; for we brought nothing into the world, and we cannot take anything out of the world; but if we have food and clothing, with these we shall be content. But those who desire to be rich fall into temptation, into a snare, into many senseless and hurtful desires that plunge men into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is the root of all evils; it is through this craving that some have wandered away from the faith and pierced their hearts with many pangs. But as for you, man of God, shun all this; aim at righteousness, godliness, faith, love, steadfastness, gentleness. Fight the good fight of the faith; take hold of the eternal life to which you were called when you made the good confession in the presence of many witnesses.

What does it mean to me?

● A letter of St. Paul to Timothy & Ephesians

● Whatever status in life, serve others & God

● The more you have, the more you have to serve more, since it is the believers & beloved of God who will benefit

St.Paul stresses out “believers

It means we minister differently to non believers.

Accept that not all what the Church says is acceptable to non believers.

We can introduce Jesus first to them.

Who are the believers? Believers of Jesus

– You could be a baptized catholic, but believing in Jesus who died on the cross is different

– Acknowledge that Jesus died for you so your sins are now paid & forgiven

– You are a believer when you recognize that Jesus has risen for you to have an eternal life in heaven

● St.Paul wants believers to serve fellow Christians

● Teach & urge these duties

● St.Paul urges us to believe what Jesus taught us thru the Mother Church

If any one teaches otherwise and does not agree with the sound words of our Lord Jesus Christ and the teaching which accords with godliness, he is puffed up with conceit

St.Paul does not want us to believe anything that contradicts Jesus’ teachings.

A person teaching what is contradictory to the Mother Catholic Church & Jesus Christ’s teachings is:

– conceited or proud

– knows nothing

– has morbid craving for controversy

– has craving for disputes about words

We see here St.Paul wants unity among fellow believers.

St.Paul does not want division among believers.

Dispute of words produce:

– envy

– dissension or disagreement

-slander

– base suspicions

– wrangling among men who are depraved in mind & bereft of truth, imagining that godliness is a means of gain

● Godliness is not a means of personal material gain

● Be content & grateful for your blessings

● There is great gain in godliness with contentment

for we brought nothing into the world and we cannot take anything out of the world- St.Paul

● We were born without anything in our hand & when we die, we can not bring anything with us

but if we have food & clothing, with these we shall be content – St.Paul

● Desire simple joys, whether you are rich or poor

Those who desire to be rich fall into temptation, into a snare, into many senseless and hurtful desires that plunge men into ruin and destruction

● Love God more than money

● Money is God’s blessing

● But do not make money your God

For the love of money is the root of all evils; it is through this craving that some have wandered away from the faith and pierced their hearts with many pangs – St.Paul

But as for you, man of God, shun all this, aim at

-righteousness

– godliness

– faith

– love

– steadfastness

– gentleness

Fight the good fight of the faith – St.Paul

● take hold of eternal life to which you were called when you made the good confession in presence of many witnesses

Gospel LUKE 8:1-3

Soon afterward he went on through cities and villages, preaching and bringing the good news of the kingdom of God. And the twelve were with him, and also some women who had been healed of evil spirits and infirmities: Mary, called Mag’dalene, from whom seven demons had gone out, and Joan’na, the wife of Chuza, Herod’s steward, and Susanna, and many others, who provided for them out of their means.

What does it mean to me?

● Jesus went through cities & villages, preaching & bringing the good news of the kingdom of God

● Jesus brings good news

● Jesus brings the good news of God’s fulfillment of His promises in Jesus

● Jesus preaches how we should treasure God’s Kingdom

● 12 disciples of Jesus including Judas Escariot followed Jesus in these cities & villages

● All of these 12 apostles have familes, some were even married

● These 12 apostles left their families behind for Jesus

● When they followed Jesus, nothing was certain

● What will they eat? Where will they sleep? What about their fishing livelihood? (Some apostles were fishermen) How about the people they left behind?

The 12 apostles entrusted Jesus their entire life & future.

● Women had their role for Jesus ministry

Some women also followed Jesus who had been healed of evil spirits & infirmities: Mary, called Mag’dalene (seven demons had gone out) & Joan’na, the wife of Chuza, Herod’s steward, & Susanna, and many others, provided for them out of their means

We already know Jesus can multiply bread+fish & walk over water.

Jesus does not need help from any one.

But Jesus accepted the help of women for his ministry of preaching & healing

Why will Jesus allow women to help Him?

Women in Israelite culture in Jesus: inferior to men

– Women submit to their husbands

– Men takes care of women & entire family

– Men work & provide for financial needs

– Roman men citizens vote & pay tax, women can not vote for citizens approval of laws & regulations of the land

What does it relate to Jesus?

● Jesus is a humble man

● Jesus trusted women & men

● Jesus accepted help from all types of people

● Jesus is teaching his apostles who are men to accept help from women (inferior with rights to men in Jesus’ time)

● We should learn to accept help from all kinds of people: richer than us or poorer than us

● We recieve God’s love by receiving help from others

● Be comfortable to recieve help

● People are not insulting you when they help you out

●Trust that people will help you out

What does it relate to the future?

● Learn to trust people when they help you

● Be humble

● Be humble to accept help from people

● Be like Jesus to accept help even when you are capable

● Be grateful when people help you out

● Following Jesus means turning your back from your old life

If your enemy invites you to his house, will you go in?

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Seriously….

When an enemy walks in the room…

What is your facial expression?

How do you treat somebody who hates you?

And if that person invites you to have dinner in their house?

Can you enter the house of your enemy?

All of us will say No.

But Jesus did.

Can you dine with your enemy?

All of us will say No.

Jesus did.

It is easier to be cold with an enemy.

Not talk to them.

Ignore them.

Jesus is teaching us thru today’s gospel how to treat enemies.

Welcome them to your homes.

Or say yes to their invitation to their house.

Love in action.

It is so hard to follow Jesus on this part.

Because it is easy to ignore enemies.

The first reading is about Timothy advised by St.Paul not to neglect his gifts.

Have we developed our gifts?

Thursday Sept 19 2019

First Reading 1 TIMOTHY 4:12-16

Let no one despise your youth, but set the believers an example in speech and conduct, in love, in faith, in purity. Till I come, attend to the public reading of scripture, to preaching, to teaching. Do not neglect the gift you have, which was given you by prophetic utterance when the council of elders laid their hands upon you. Practice these duties, devote yourself to them, so that all may see your progress. Take heed to yourself and to your teaching; hold to that, for by so doing you will save both yourself and your hearers.

What do these verses mean to me?

● A letter of St.Paul to Timothy and the Christians in Ephesus

● Let no one despise your youth (Timothy)

● Set as an example to believers

Timothy will lead believers of Jesus

St. Paul stresses “believers”

Non-believers are outside the Church.

If you are discipling people who are non-believers & you argue

Due to differences of beliefs….

God will understand….

You can pray & love them….

But if you failed to lead them to Jesus because they resist….

It is their choice.

It is not a failed discipleship….

Only Jesus can change their hearts.

● Timothy, a young leader tasked to set as an example of Jesus to Ephesians in speech & conduct, in love, in faith, in purity

● Church leaders are called to set as example of Jesus

● As members, respect our church leaders even if they are young

● Some older people are not humble to follow leaders because they are young

In the absence of St. Paul, Timothy will:

– attend to public reading of scripture

– do preaching

– do teaching

– Practice these duties

– devote yourself to them (Christians) so that all may see your progress

– Take heed to yourself & your teaching

– you will save both yourself & your hearers

Timothy knows his gifts & talents.

Have we discovered our full potential?

● St. Paul advises Timothy that thru his preaching, he will lead them for Jesus’ salvation

Have we lead people to Jesus?

It could be thru:

– actual verbal introduction of Jesus to friends & famiy

– preaching in public for a crowd

– writing about Jesus in a book, magazine or newspaper

– creating an e-book for Jesus

– using social media posts introducing Jesus to others

– Writing a blog for Jesus

The list goes on….

We have many ways to send the world the message of Jesus.

It is up to us to continue what St.Paul, Timothy & apostles started.

Do not neglect the gift you have, which was given you by prophetic utterance when the council of elders laid their hands upon you – St. Paul

Modern Catholics Confirmation : Sacrament of Laying of hands

● Bishop lays his hands on us, traces the sign of the cross in forehead

● Church tradition passed on from St.Paul & apostles

● Opens us for spiritual gifts of the Holy Spirit

● We are officially sealed thru the Holy Spirit

● Catholics have continued this church tradition of laying of hands by a religious leader

Have we discovered our gifts?

As Catholics, St. Paul tells us to discover our gifts, talents & use them for the Church.

Do not neglect your gifts from God.

Gospel LUKE 7:36-50

One of the Pharisees asked him to eat with him, and he went into the Pharisee’s house, and took his place at table. And behold, a woman of the city, who was a sinner, when she learned that he was at table in the Pharisee’s house, brought an alabaster flask of ointment, and standing behind him at his feet, weeping, she began to wet his feet with her tears, and wiped them with the hair of her head, and kissed his feet, and anointed them with the ointment. Now when the Pharisee who had invited him saw it, he said to himself, “If this man were a prophet, he would have known who and what sort of woman this is who is touching him, for she is a sinner.” And Jesus answering said to him, “Simon, I have something to say to you.” And he answered, “What is it, Teacher?” “A certain creditor had two debtors; one owed five hundred denarii, and the other fifty. When they could not pay, he forgave them both. Now which of them will love him more?” Simon answered, “The one, I suppose, to whom he forgave more.” And he said to him, “You have judged rightly.” Then turning toward the woman he said to Simon, “Do you see this woman? I entered your house, you gave me no water for my feet, but she has wet my feet with her tears and wiped them with her hair. You gave me no kiss, but from the time I came in she has not ceased to kiss my feet. You did not anoint my head with oil, but she has anointed my feet with ointment. Therefore I tell you, her sins, which are many, are forgiven, for she loved much; but he who is forgiven little, loves little.” And he said to her, “Your sins are forgiven.” Then those who were at table with him began to say among themselves, “Who is this, who even forgives sins?” And he said to the woman, “Your faith has saved you; go in peace.”

What do these verses mean to me?

2 characters are mentioned:

1. A Pharisee

2. A woman looked as a sinner

Contrasting yet they are the same:

St.Luke mentions:

Pharisee, a righteous person, follower of God

The woman is a sinner…

Truth is, both of them are sinners.

But people judged the woman more..

Unclean.

Sinner.

Unforgiven.

Simon, the Pharisee & Jesus: unusual to dine together

● he invited Jesus to his house

Pharisees & Jesus at times in conflict

Some Pharisees consider Jesus as an enemy

● Challenge to the Next level: A Pharisee asked Jesus to eat with him

●Simon failed to see humility & sincerity of the woman to Jesus

Jesus entered his house even if He might be in conflict with traditions practiced by the Pharisee

It means…

Jesus stands firm to promote what is right…

To love more versus tradition….

Entering his enemy’s house does not mean Jesus will agree 100%…

We can not 100% agree with our enemy.

But we can be kind to them.

Woman judged as sinner: modern day: gate crasher

● Not invited by Pharisee

● Her belief in Jesus, seen at the start: entering a house who will reject you

● focused on Jesus not with what people say

● Desperate for God’s forgiveness

● Sincere asking for forgiveness: tears

● Recognized Jesus as the Son of God who can forgive her

● Gave her best for Jesus: brought alabaster flask of ointment

● Showed humility by kissing Jesus’ feet, wiping with her hair, anointing

Jesus said to her

“Your faith has saved you; go in peace.”

Forgive ourselves as well & be at peace

What does it relate to Jesus?

● Jesus called Teacher by Simon, pharisee

Parable: A certain creditor had 2 debtors

1. owed five 500 denarii

2. Owed 50 denarii

When they could not pay, he forgave them both. Now which of them will love him more?”

Simon answered,

“The one, I suppose, to whom he forgave more.”

Jesus said: “You have judged rightly.”

● Jesus teaches even those who disagrees with Him..

Jesus mentions Simon not hospitable:

– you gave me no water for my feet

– You gave me no kiss

– You did not anoint my head with oil

Jesus wants us to be welcoming even to our enemy.

I myself NEED to learn that.

Therefore I tell you, her sins, which are many, are forgiven, for she loved much; but he who is forgiven little, loves little.” – Jesus

● Jesus teaches us we will be forgiven if we love more

● Only Jesus can be our judge & forgive us

● We all have the chance to be forgiven

● Still there are those who did not believe in Jesus

● Jesus does not force anyone to believe in Him

I myself need to learn not to force people to believe in what I say.

Just like Jesus.

Jesus just allows people to doubt Him.

“Who is this, who even forgives sins?”

What does it relate to the future?

● Allow people to doubt you if you spread Jesus’ message

● Not everyone is ready to recieve Jesus

● Pray & love for those who reject Jesus

● Be welcoming to your enemy

● Dine with your enemy

● Be humble to admit you are a sinner

● Give your best to God

● Love more to be forgiven more

● Be kind to your enemies

● All have a chance to be forgiven

Faith lets you anticipate only what is good

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What is in your mind?

Is it filled with doubts, worries, disappointments?

Or do fill your mind with dreams, exciting things to do, ideas that boost your confidence & faith in God?

Doubts & faith can not be in your head all at the same time.

They contradict.

You choose 1 & focus on it.

It is like a seed….

You plant in your mind.

Everyday, you cultivate it.

It grows.

Doubts lead to negative thoughts.

Even as far as false accusations.

A negative seed to bear bad fruits.

The gospel today mentions Jesus telling the crowds of their doubts.

Such doubts lead to false accusations to Jesus & John the Baptist.

Jesus wants us to be wise.

Believing in yourself & belief in God will bear positive fruits.

Faith makes you open for what is coming.

Faith lets you anticipate only what is good.

You claim the best is yet to come.

You claim the good things will come to you.

You claim the right people & the right circumstances will work on its right schedule for you.

It will always work for you.

Your focus is only on what is the best.

At the end, the fruit you are expecting will be good.

Good results, great ideas, great people, great circumstances.

Like a magnet…

God will bring it all on the table because you claimed with faith….

Even when you haven’t seen it yet.

You just know.

Pick the seed you allow your mind to believe in.

Current experience:

I am now falsely accused by a dear friend that I mistreat him.

I made him feel his intelligence is inferior than mine.

I never said anything like that within my more than 10 years friendship with this person.

I know what is in my heart.

It is painful to me, because I do not look at him that way.

Now I understand.

He doubts himself.

Now he is falsely accusing me.

When all I think about this person…..

Is all good.

Why will I keep you as my friend if you are pure evil?

I am repelled by negativity.

That is me.

Wednesday Sept 18 2019

FIRST READING 1 Tm 3:14-16

Beloved: I am writing you, although I hope to visit you soon. But if I should be delayed, you should know how to behave in the household of God, which is the Church of the living God, the pillar and foundation of truth. Undeniably great is the mystery of devotion, Who was manifested in the flesh, vindicated in the spirit, seen by angels, proclaimed to the Gentiles, believed in throughout the world, taken up in glory.

What do these verses mean to me?

● A letter of St. Paul for Timothy & for his ministry in Ephesus

● St. Paul is calling & treat Christians as beloved

● Let us call & treat fellow Christians as beloved

● St. Paul wants to visit them

But if I should be delayed, you should know how to behave in the household of God – St. Paul

● As a church leader, he was concerned about the character of Timothy & fellow Christians

● St. Paul wants us to behave well in the Church of God & how the Church is oganized

● Jesus with his mystery of devotion, manifested in flesh, vindicated in the spirit, seen by angels, proclaimed to Gentiles, believed throughout the world, taken up in glory

● Our church is the Church of the living God, the pillar and foundation of truth

Anything that contradicts Church teachings clearly does not align with the truth.

People are now Confused: Current Issues

We live in a society where some things are legal yet confusing.

Leaving people confused.

Why?

Because as Catholic church goers, we have compromised Church teachings to suit the signs of the times.

It is the modern world.

I could choose what I want to believe in.

And everything will be okay.

I can be catholic yet pro-divorce.

I could be catholic yet pro abortion.

I could be catholic yet pro lgbtq.

Truth is….

We can not be catholic yet refuse to follow what our Mother Church teaches…

No matter what era we live in.

We can be the Jesus to love & pray for people who are gay or pro divorce or pro abortion.

But we can not agree & join their advocacy.

Or join their life choices.

Accept you are on different sides, sad to say.

Always go back to what our Mother Catholic Church teaches us….

To guide us to the truth.

Follow the Mother Catholic Church & its teachings.

Remember: St. Paul never compromised.

He stressed out: know how to behave well in the Church of God

GOSPEL Lk 7:31-35

Jesus said to the crowds: “To what shall I compare the people of this generation? What are they like? They are like children who sit in the marketplace and call to one another, ‘We played the flute for you, but you did not dance. We sang a dirge, but you did not weep.’ For John the Baptist came neither eating food nor drinking wine, and you said, ‘He is possessed by a demon.’ The Son of Man came eating and drinking and you said, ‘Look, he is a glutton and a drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and sinners.’ But wisdom is vindicated by all her children.”

What do these verses mean to me?

● Jesus said to the crowds:

They are like children who sit in the marketplace and call to one another, ‘We played the flute for you, but you did not dance. We sang a dirge, but you did not weep.’

● Jesus mentions the unbelief of people

For John the Baptist came neither eating food nor drinking wine, and you said, ‘He is possessed by a demon.’

● John the Baptist performed his roles yet people accused him possessed by demon

● False accusation is not right (Mortal sin, against 8th commandment)

How can we accuse someone who is doing what is right, but make them appear wrong?

Stop accusing anyone without evidence.

Stop looking for wrong acts from kind people.

You are looking for something that isn’t there.

What does it relate to Jesus?

● Jesus referred to himself as the Son of Man

● Even after Jesus has cured sick people & rose people from the dead, they still do not believe He is the messiah

The Son of Man came eating & drinking & you said, ‘Look, he is a glutton & a drunkard, a friend of tax collectors & sinners.’

Vindicated: means confirmed

● But wisdom is vindicated by all her children

● Jesus wants people to be wise to see the truth behind false accusations about Him & John the Baptist

● Jesus wants us wise to look for what is good

Why are we painting a bad picture for good deeds?

Always look for what is good.

That is being wise.

Doubts or unbelief leads to false accusations.

Look at what you place & grow in your mind.

What ideas do you believe in?

Do you allow doubts to grow in your mind?

Or….

Do you grow your faith?

What does it relate to the future?

● Jesus wants us to be wise people

● It is wise to see only the good in people

● Stop false accusations

● Stop criticising & nitpicking people

● When you doubt people, it could lead to false accusations

● Stop using your eyes to fill your mind with negative thoughts

● Life is beautiful & people are great

● Great people deserved to be appreciated, not falsely accused

Watch the Temper: Being Cool and Relaxed is following God

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What relaxes you?

For me, sight seeing with nature removes my anxieties.

As a microbiologist, I love observing ecosytem.

Nature, our home.Our environment.

All creations of God.

Did you know being calm at all times makes you follow God?

St. Paul says so.

First reading today tells us, St.Paul expects bishop or church leaders to be temperate.

Same as women.

Temperate means you are emotionally calm & controlled.

Most of the time I am relaxed & calm.

But I still have a temper.

I avoid arguments if I can.

I still get angry or disappointed at times.

Looks like God wants me to level things up with my temper.

My new goal: Be as cool tempered as I can be.

Be more relaxed.

Better than before.

Defeat my old self.

Be calm even in trials.

During struggles.

Even when I am upset.

Ladies, let’s be as cool as a breeze.

Cool our temper & avoid complaining.

Note to myself: avoid complaining.

More Praises to God instead.

Okay.

I need to set a time….

Make it a habit daily.

That whatever problems I face….

This time of day I let go everything.

It could be during praying time or any activity….

At 10:10 pm daily onwards, is my new relaxing time.

Unwinding time.

The clock is smiling at 10:10 pm.

And I was born at 10:10 pm.

I found my relaxing time.

Gospel for today mentions Jesus raising the dead son of a widow.

The widow did not asked Jesus to help her out.

But Jesus felt her pain.

Jesus raised the son to life to make her happy.

Jesus will do everything to make us happy.

We choose to dwell in disappointments & should have beens.

It is time to be happy & confident that God understands us.

No matter how many trials we are facing now..

Believe that Jesus will raise the dead parts in our lives.

Tuesday Sept 17 2019

FIRST READING 1 Tim 3:1-13

Beloved, this saying is trustworthy:whoever aspires to the office of bishop desires a noble task. Therefore, a bishop must be irreproachable, married only once, temperate, self-controlled, decent, hospitable, able to teach, not a drunkard, not aggressive, but gentle, not contentious, not a lover of money. He must manage his own household well, keeping his children under control with perfect dignity; for if a man does not know how to manage his own household, how can he take care of the church of God? He should not be a recent convert, so that he may not become conceited and thus incur the devil’s punishment. He must also have a good reputation among outsiders, so that he may not fall into disgrace, the devil’s trap. Similarly, deacons must be dignified, not deceitful, not addicted to drink, not greedy for sordid gain, holding fast to the mystery of the faith with a clear conscience. Moreover, they should be tested first; then, if there is nothing against them, let them serve as deacons. Women, similarly, should be dignified, not slanderers, but temperate and faithful in everything. Deacons may be married only once and must manage their children and their households well. Thus those who serve well as deacons gain good standing and much confidence in their faith in Christ Jesus.

What do these verses mean to me?

● St.Paul wrote the letter to Timothy for Christians

● St. Paul calls fellow Christians as beloved

whoever aspires to the office of bishop desires a noble task

● Higher rank means higher responsibility

Irreproachable: means blameless

Temperate: emotionally calm & controlled

Contentious: cause quarrel & arguments

Conceited: having too much pride in your own worth or goodness

Incur: means experience

St. Paul’ standards for a bishop/cburch leader:

– irreproachable

– married only once (church leaders in early christians communities were allowed to be married)

– temperate

– self-controlled

– decent

– hospitable

– able to teach

– not a drunkard

– not aggressive

– gentle

– not contentious

– not a lover of money

– manage his own household well

– keeping his children under control with perfect dignity

(bishops should discipline everyone under His authority: priests & nuns)

– not a recent convert, so that he may not become conceited (thus incur devil’s punishment)

– if a man does not know how to manage his own household, how can he take care of the church of God? – St.Paul

– good reputation among outsiders, so that he may not fall into disgrace, the devil’s trap

Standards of St. Paul for deacons:

– dignified

– not deceitful

– not addicted to drink

– not greedy for sordid gain

– holding fast to the mystery of the faith with a clear conscience

– may be married only once

– must manage their children & their households well

Thus those who serve well as deacons gain good standing & much confidence in their faith in Christ Jesus.

they should be tested first; then, if there is nothing against them, let them serve as deacons.

● St. Paul allows future church leaders to be tested

● If you are tested by God, God sees your potential as one of the future leaders in the Church

St.Paul standards for Women:

– be dignified

– not slanderers

– temperate & faithful in everything

Dignified

– as a woman of faith, dress appropriately & cover our body with clothes that will not tempt men for lust.

Slander:to make a false spoken statement that causes people to have a bad opinion of someone

No to Slander

Say only the truth. Make sure it is based on facts & not pure lies.

You could use the scientific method before saying anything at all.

There should be evidence.

If somebody hurt you, you could directly talk to the person & not spread gossip about the person.

Forgiveness is also given to that person.

Temperate & Faithful

Be calm as a woman.Chill & look cool. Do not worry too much.

Avoid grumbling or complaining.

Do not be grumpy.

We are created by God not to be grumpy girls.

Life is beautiful.

God wants us to appreciate the life He gave us.

Feel calm & relaxed in the midst of trials.

Love of money

Nowadays people love money.

● Because money can provide the services & commodities they need.

For a church leader, money will provide the needs of the church.

But will the love of money be greater than His love for God?

Money is a blessing.

We appreciate it as a blessing.

But money is not our God.

Our modern Catholic Church needs money to pay for its utility maintenance, building maintenance, providence for food, water, tranportation allowance of clergy & other church staff.

We need money to fund scholars who will be future priests & nuns.

We need funds to support Catholic Church projects for street children, abandoned old people etc.

But St. Paul says, for church leaders & bishop, money is not everything.

Money may provide services & commodities, but it is just a paper.

God is the source of all money in this world.

God is the true provider of all we need.

Therefore only God can provide the money each Church leader or Bishop needs.

Focus on the source of money.

Focus on God & his goodness.

Love God above all.

Love God above money.

Be confident that God will always provide for His children as He is a great Father in heaven.

GOSPEL Lk 7:11-17

Jesus journeyed to a city called Nain, and his disciples and a large crowd accompanied him. As he drew near to the gate of the city, a man who had died was being carried out, the only son of his mother, and she was a widow. A large crowd from the city was with her. When the Lord saw her, he was moved with pity for her and said to her, “Do not weep.” He stepped forward and touched the coffin; at this the bearers halted, and he said, “Young man, I tell you, arise!” The dead man sat up and began to speak, and Jesus gave him to his mother. Fear seized them all, and they glorified God, exclaiming, “A great prophet has arisen in our midst,” and “God has visited his people.”This report about him spread through the whole of Judea and in all the surrounding region.

What do these verses mean to me?

● Jesus journeyed to Nain, a city

● Modern day: Nain is now called Nein, still part of Northern Israel

● Jesus’ disciples + large crowd accompanied Jesus

● Jesus is now a public figure

Luke addresses Jesus as the Lord

– A Lord is someone who has authority

– Luke recognizes Jesus has authority over him

– We should recognize that Jesus is our Lord, who has authority over all aspects of our lives.

● the only son of his widowed mother, died

●A large crowd from the city was with her

● The widow is still sad, because her son was all she ever had, now lost.

Jesus miracle: raising the dead to life

● This is the God we have

● From death comes life

● Jesus came forward, touched the coffin

Jesus said,

“Young man, I tell you, arise!”

● The dead man sat up, began to speak

● Jesus gave him to his mother

It is not the wish of the young man.

Other people wished for his life.

Praying for others:

– At times, other people’s prayer takes effect on us.

●Fear seized them all & glorified God, exclaiming

“A great prophet has arisen in our midst,” and “God has visited his people.”

● Report about Jesus spread through the whole of Judea and in all the surrounding region

What does it relate to Jesus?

Did the widow asked for a miracle from Jesus?

NO.

But raising her son will make her happy.

And God will be glorified in her life.

God will do everything to make us happy.

●When Jesus saw the widow, he was moved with pity for her

said to her,

“Do not weep.”

● Jesus felt the pain of loss of the widow

● Jesus feels our pain

● Jesus is moved with pity with our pain & helps us out along the way

● Jesus has authority over life & death & over everything

● God the Father fulfilled His promise thru Jesus Christ

What does it relate to the future?

● Know that God loves you

● Jesus will do everything to make us happy

● Praise God for being good to us

● Jesus has authority over everything

● God fulfills His promises

● God wants us to be happy

● Be happy

● Pray for others