Nehemiah 2 : 1-8
Luke 9 : 57-62
We know that God sent His Spirit to guide us and to be our rule of life.
The Spirit helps us to be in union with God always and to seek His will in the choices and decisions of life.
In the 1st reading, Nehemiah knew he was only a slave and the king's wine-attendant. He will surely lose his head if the wine does not taste good.
But when the king asked what was in his heart, a great fear came upon him because he wanted to go back to his homeland.
But Nehemiah called upon God and made his request to the king.
Yet all that he asked for was granted, with the timber for building added on even.
But all this was possible because Nehemiah called on the Lord first, and the favour of God was upon him.
So let us remember that before we make any choices or decisions, let us call upon the Lord to have His favour and His grace upon us.
For without God's grace and favour upon us, we will not be able to seek and do His will, much less follow and serve Him.
Yes, we just have to call upon God first and then walk in faith.
At times we may not be sure, but we must have the faith to walk with God even in the dark, than to go alone in the bright daylight of our own strength.
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
The Holy Archangles Ss Michael, Gabriel, Raphael, Tuesday, 29-09-09
Dan 7:9-0,13-4 or Rev 12:7-12a
Rev 12:7-12a
Even though we are Catholics, we are certainly influenced and maybe even affected by the events of the recent Chinese 7th month.
We are more inclined to believe that the hungry ghosts and devils are roaming around to scare the wits out of us, than to believe in angels that look like cute chubby babies with wings.
But in the spiritual world of the unseen, if we believe in the existence of evil spirits, then all the more we too must believe in the presence of angels.
Today we celebrate the feast of three archangels : Michael, Gabriel and Raphael.
All three names end with "el", which is the old Jewish word for "God".
The name Michael means "Who can be like God?" - it is a name that has the form of a rhetoric question.
Gabriel means "the power of God". He announced the Good News of salvation to Zechariah and Mary and manifested God's saving power.
Raphael means "the healing power of God". He brought about God's healing power in the book of Tobit.
Though God is unseen, yet through these three archangles, He manifested His power and presence.
Indeed, who can be like God, who is so loving that He saved us through His Son, and forgave and healed us.
We can only be thankful to God.
Rev 12:7-12a
Even though we are Catholics, we are certainly influenced and maybe even affected by the events of the recent Chinese 7th month.
We are more inclined to believe that the hungry ghosts and devils are roaming around to scare the wits out of us, than to believe in angels that look like cute chubby babies with wings.
But in the spiritual world of the unseen, if we believe in the existence of evil spirits, then all the more we too must believe in the presence of angels.
Today we celebrate the feast of three archangels : Michael, Gabriel and Raphael.
All three names end with "el", which is the old Jewish word for "God".
The name Michael means "Who can be like God?" - it is a name that has the form of a rhetoric question.
Gabriel means "the power of God". He announced the Good News of salvation to Zechariah and Mary and manifested God's saving power.
Raphael means "the healing power of God". He brought about God's healing power in the book of Tobit.
Though God is unseen, yet through these three archangles, He manifested His power and presence.
Indeed, who can be like God, who is so loving that He saved us through His Son, and forgave and healed us.
We can only be thankful to God.
Monday, September 28, 2009
26th Week, Ordinary Time, Monday, 28-09-09
Zechariah 8 : 1-8
Luke 9 : 46-50
It is understandable to perceive power and authority in the secular world as important and even to strive for it.
So in the office, or in the school, or in the community club, to have power and authority means that a person have a say, and it means that a person is someone to be reckoned with.
But yet this secular perception of power and authority can, and has even pervaded the Church.
Church history tells us that Popes, bishops, priests, religious and the laity have succumbed to its lure and trap. They can even bask in it, and yearn for it.
Yet the yearning and longing for power and authority is also the clear give-away sign of a person's real motive and intention for being in the Church.
Indeed, it is difficult to balance power and authority with the sincerity and honesty of a child.
But what seems impossible for man is not so for God.
In the 1st reading, the Lord reiterates His mighty power.
He will bring His people back from the nations and He will be their God and they will be His people.
Yes, God will also save and protect the Church from the corruption of power and authority.
He will also teach us obedience and service, for that is true greatness.
Luke 9 : 46-50
It is understandable to perceive power and authority in the secular world as important and even to strive for it.
So in the office, or in the school, or in the community club, to have power and authority means that a person have a say, and it means that a person is someone to be reckoned with.
But yet this secular perception of power and authority can, and has even pervaded the Church.
Church history tells us that Popes, bishops, priests, religious and the laity have succumbed to its lure and trap. They can even bask in it, and yearn for it.
Yet the yearning and longing for power and authority is also the clear give-away sign of a person's real motive and intention for being in the Church.
Indeed, it is difficult to balance power and authority with the sincerity and honesty of a child.
But what seems impossible for man is not so for God.
In the 1st reading, the Lord reiterates His mighty power.
He will bring His people back from the nations and He will be their God and they will be His people.
Yes, God will also save and protect the Church from the corruption of power and authority.
He will also teach us obedience and service, for that is true greatness.
Saturday, September 26, 2009
25th Week, Ordinary Time, Saturday, 26-09-09
Zec 2:5-9, 14-15a
Lk 9:43b-45
When we ask someone "How are you?", what answer are we expecting?
Or when others ask us that question, what kind of answer are we going to give?
Surely, we would expect, as well as give, polite but rather superficial answers like : I am ok. I am fine.
But beneath these polite and superficial answers is the reality of pain and suffering.
Even for Jesus, just when everyone was full of admiration for Him, He brought Himself and His disciples back to the reality of the cross that He must face.
Indeed the reality of pain and suffering is seared into humanity, especially that of being a Christian.
But our consolation is not in a delayed gratification as in that it will be the reward in the after-life.
Rather, our consolation is what the prophet Zechariah proclaimed in the 1st reading - that the Lord dwells right in our midst, and hence is with us inour pain and suffering.
With the Lord is our help and salvation.
For the Lord is with us, to wipe away every tear from our eyes
Lk 9:43b-45
When we ask someone "How are you?", what answer are we expecting?
Or when others ask us that question, what kind of answer are we going to give?
Surely, we would expect, as well as give, polite but rather superficial answers like : I am ok. I am fine.
But beneath these polite and superficial answers is the reality of pain and suffering.
Even for Jesus, just when everyone was full of admiration for Him, He brought Himself and His disciples back to the reality of the cross that He must face.
Indeed the reality of pain and suffering is seared into humanity, especially that of being a Christian.
But our consolation is not in a delayed gratification as in that it will be the reward in the after-life.
Rather, our consolation is what the prophet Zechariah proclaimed in the 1st reading - that the Lord dwells right in our midst, and hence is with us inour pain and suffering.
With the Lord is our help and salvation.
For the Lord is with us, to wipe away every tear from our eyes
Friday, September 25, 2009
25th Week, Ordinary Time, Friday, 25-09-09
Haggai 1:15 - 2:9
Luke 9 : 18-22
Whether we realised it or not, whether we admit it or not, we all need someone to look up to, someone to be our model of life, someone who will influence us deeply.
They are certainly our heroes, and we may even go to the extent of following their habits, the way they dress, etc.
The problem is that, the people we look up to, also have to meet our silent expectations.
We expect them to be strong, to be unbeatable, to be on top of things always.
So whatever the answers the disciples gave about who Jesus was, including Peter's profound answer, there was an underlying expectation about Jesus.
Yet Jesus said that He was destined to suffer greviously, to be rejected, put to death, but raised up on the third day.
What Jesus is saying is that even in suffering, in rejection and finally in death, He is still the strong one, because He will rise.
Jesus had said : Do not be afraid. I have overcome the world.
He who has overcome the world, will also give us the strength to overcome our own world of difficulties and sufferings.
With Jesus, we will also suffer and face rejection.
Yet, when we die to ourselves, we will also rise with Jesus
Luke 9 : 18-22
Whether we realised it or not, whether we admit it or not, we all need someone to look up to, someone to be our model of life, someone who will influence us deeply.
They are certainly our heroes, and we may even go to the extent of following their habits, the way they dress, etc.
The problem is that, the people we look up to, also have to meet our silent expectations.
We expect them to be strong, to be unbeatable, to be on top of things always.
So whatever the answers the disciples gave about who Jesus was, including Peter's profound answer, there was an underlying expectation about Jesus.
Yet Jesus said that He was destined to suffer greviously, to be rejected, put to death, but raised up on the third day.
What Jesus is saying is that even in suffering, in rejection and finally in death, He is still the strong one, because He will rise.
Jesus had said : Do not be afraid. I have overcome the world.
He who has overcome the world, will also give us the strength to overcome our own world of difficulties and sufferings.
With Jesus, we will also suffer and face rejection.
Yet, when we die to ourselves, we will also rise with Jesus
Thursday, September 24, 2009
25th Week, Ordinary Time, Thursday, 24.09.09
Haggai 1 : 1-8
Luke 9 : 7-9
Herod can be called a half-believer, someone who believes in mystery, yet looks for the sensational and the curious.
He wanted to see Jesus because of the the curious reports that he heard about Him, and maybe to see Him work something spectacular.
Well, Herod eventually got to see Jesus, but yet for all his anxiety to see Jesus and his curiosity about Him, he didn't get anywhere closer to the truth.
Similarly for the people in the 1st reading. they were anxious about their own lives and how to live comfortably.
But as the prophet Haggai told them : Reflect carefully how things have gone for you!
They were anxious about themselves, but yet here was no anxiety for the Lord's house (the Temple)
We too have to reflect carefully and then we will see the truth of things.
Indeed we need not be anxious and worry about our lives.
Let us seek the kingdom of God first, and whatever we need will be given unto us. That is the truth.
Luke 9 : 7-9
Herod can be called a half-believer, someone who believes in mystery, yet looks for the sensational and the curious.
He wanted to see Jesus because of the the curious reports that he heard about Him, and maybe to see Him work something spectacular.
Well, Herod eventually got to see Jesus, but yet for all his anxiety to see Jesus and his curiosity about Him, he didn't get anywhere closer to the truth.
Similarly for the people in the 1st reading. they were anxious about their own lives and how to live comfortably.
But as the prophet Haggai told them : Reflect carefully how things have gone for you!
They were anxious about themselves, but yet here was no anxiety for the Lord's house (the Temple)
We too have to reflect carefully and then we will see the truth of things.
Indeed we need not be anxious and worry about our lives.
Let us seek the kingdom of God first, and whatever we need will be given unto us. That is the truth.
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
25th Week, Ordinary Time, Wednesday, 23-09-09
Ezr 9:5-9 / Lk 9:1-6 (2023)
It is so easy to forget to be thankful and grateful when our difficulties and struggles are over.
Just like my parents' generation would look at my generation and say that we are not grateful and thankful that we have so much to eat and can even throw away food.
And my generation would look at the next generation and say that they take so many things for granted and that they waste money even before they have to earn it.
In the 1st reading, when Ezra looked at his people, he remembered how they were sent into exile.
They had sinned against the Lord and hence they were punished as their enemies conquered them and sent them into captivity and slavery.
But the Lord was merciful and now a remnant has come back to rebuild the Temple.
But Ezra remembered the past and he was taking nothing for granted in the present.
Even when Jesus sent His disciples to proclaim the Good News, He sent them off with nothing but with His authority and empowerment.
This was to remind them to take nothing for granted because all they needed had already been granted.
Even for us, all we ever needed has already been granted. We need to be thankful and grateful.
That will be the first step for us in proclaiming the Good News
It is so easy to forget to be thankful and grateful when our difficulties and struggles are over.
Just like my parents' generation would look at my generation and say that we are not grateful and thankful that we have so much to eat and can even throw away food.
And my generation would look at the next generation and say that they take so many things for granted and that they waste money even before they have to earn it.
In the 1st reading, when Ezra looked at his people, he remembered how they were sent into exile.
They had sinned against the Lord and hence they were punished as their enemies conquered them and sent them into captivity and slavery.
But the Lord was merciful and now a remnant has come back to rebuild the Temple.
But Ezra remembered the past and he was taking nothing for granted in the present.
Even when Jesus sent His disciples to proclaim the Good News, He sent them off with nothing but with His authority and empowerment.
This was to remind them to take nothing for granted because all they needed had already been granted.
Even for us, all we ever needed has already been granted. We need to be thankful and grateful.
That will be the first step for us in proclaiming the Good News
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
25th Week, Ordinary Time, Tuesday, 22.09.09
Ezr 6:7-8, 12b, 14-20
Lk: 8:19-21
The Temple that was mentioned in the 1st reading was completed around 450 BC.
It was built on the site of the first Temple which was destroyed by the Babylonians a hundred years earlier.
The exiles who came back to build this temple had the support of King Darius, but they also met with a lot of resistance.
For one, the Samaritans tried to block their efforts.
At times, the workmen found themselves having to build with one hand and fight off the enemy with the other.
On top of that, the crops sometimes failed.
These are certainly more than just teething problems.
But when the Temple was eventually completed, the people really rejoiced and celebrated.
This experience of the Jews in re-building the Temple serves to remind us that perseverance and commitment do not go wasted or uncounted.
Especially so when our commitment and perseverance in our faithfulness to God is put to the test.
To hear the Word of God and to put it into practice demands commitment and perseverance.
Especially in the areas like prayer time, moral decisions, life choices, service, etc.
As brothers and sisters of Jesus, let us deepen our commitment to God as we persevere in building God's kingdom on earth.
Lk: 8:19-21
The Temple that was mentioned in the 1st reading was completed around 450 BC.
It was built on the site of the first Temple which was destroyed by the Babylonians a hundred years earlier.
The exiles who came back to build this temple had the support of King Darius, but they also met with a lot of resistance.
For one, the Samaritans tried to block their efforts.
At times, the workmen found themselves having to build with one hand and fight off the enemy with the other.
On top of that, the crops sometimes failed.
These are certainly more than just teething problems.
But when the Temple was eventually completed, the people really rejoiced and celebrated.
This experience of the Jews in re-building the Temple serves to remind us that perseverance and commitment do not go wasted or uncounted.
Especially so when our commitment and perseverance in our faithfulness to God is put to the test.
To hear the Word of God and to put it into practice demands commitment and perseverance.
Especially in the areas like prayer time, moral decisions, life choices, service, etc.
As brothers and sisters of Jesus, let us deepen our commitment to God as we persevere in building God's kingdom on earth.
Monday, September 21, 2009
St. Matthew, Apostle and Evangelist, 21-09-09
Eph 4:1-7, 11-13 / Mt 9:9-13 (2020 / 2022 / 2024)
Have we ever wondered what were the thoughts that crossed the mind of St. Matthew as he got up from the customs house to follow Jesus?
Is it the uncertainty of abandoning a stable and profitable job, although it is not a respectable one?
Or is it the apprehension that from that moment on, things are not going to be the same anymore?
But over and above all these thoughts is the great up-lifting feeling that someone had given him respect, dignity and self-worth.
In Jesus, St. Matthew saw the mercy and love of God, who came not to call the virtuous, but sinners.
What St. Matthew saw in Jesus, he too wanted to emulate.
That is also what the 1st reading is telling us : that united in faith and knowledge of the Son of God, we strive to be the Perfect Man, fully mature with the fullness of Christ.
Jesus showed St. Matthew who and what he can become.
In turn, St. Matthew showed us in his gospel who and what we can become.
As the call of Jesus crosses and echoes in our hearts, let us answer the call like St. Matthew.
Because it is a call to the fullness of Christ Himself.
Have we ever wondered what were the thoughts that crossed the mind of St. Matthew as he got up from the customs house to follow Jesus?
Is it the uncertainty of abandoning a stable and profitable job, although it is not a respectable one?
Or is it the apprehension that from that moment on, things are not going to be the same anymore?
But over and above all these thoughts is the great up-lifting feeling that someone had given him respect, dignity and self-worth.
In Jesus, St. Matthew saw the mercy and love of God, who came not to call the virtuous, but sinners.
What St. Matthew saw in Jesus, he too wanted to emulate.
That is also what the 1st reading is telling us : that united in faith and knowledge of the Son of God, we strive to be the Perfect Man, fully mature with the fullness of Christ.
Jesus showed St. Matthew who and what he can become.
In turn, St. Matthew showed us in his gospel who and what we can become.
As the call of Jesus crosses and echoes in our hearts, let us answer the call like St. Matthew.
Because it is a call to the fullness of Christ Himself.
Saturday, September 19, 2009
24th Week, Ordinary Time, Sat, 19.09.09
1Tim 6:13-16
Lk 8:4-15
Our senses enable us to reason out things and then make opinions and judgments about similarities.
So, even though we may not be farmers and may not have expert knowledge on agriculture, but as we look at the soil, or even use our hands to feel the soil, we will know what kind of soil it is.
So as Jesus tells the parable of the sower in today's gospel, we have to use our ears to listen to what it is all about.
We would know if we had listened deeply enough because if we had, then our eyes would also slowly start to open.
Because when we listen to the Word of God and meditate on it, then it will take root in our hearts.
The Word of God will then open our eyes to see clearer and deeper, the reality of life around us.
So with ears listening for the voice of God and with eyes looking deeply at the realities, we would then be able to give a Christian response to the contradictions of life, and to the situations of sin and evil.
Jesus wants us to see and perceive, to listen and understand.
He has given us all the senses that are necessary.
May we use them wisely.
Lk 8:4-15
Our senses enable us to reason out things and then make opinions and judgments about similarities.
So, even though we may not be farmers and may not have expert knowledge on agriculture, but as we look at the soil, or even use our hands to feel the soil, we will know what kind of soil it is.
So as Jesus tells the parable of the sower in today's gospel, we have to use our ears to listen to what it is all about.
We would know if we had listened deeply enough because if we had, then our eyes would also slowly start to open.
Because when we listen to the Word of God and meditate on it, then it will take root in our hearts.
The Word of God will then open our eyes to see clearer and deeper, the reality of life around us.
So with ears listening for the voice of God and with eyes looking deeply at the realities, we would then be able to give a Christian response to the contradictions of life, and to the situations of sin and evil.
Jesus wants us to see and perceive, to listen and understand.
He has given us all the senses that are necessary.
May we use them wisely.
Thursday, September 17, 2009
24th Week, Ordinary Time, Friday, 18.09.09
1Tim 6:2c-12
Lk 8:1-3
To have a job that requires frequent travelling might sound like a lot of fun if we are young.
But as we grow older, then to be living out of a suitcase does takes its toil, and there's no place like home.
But for Jesus and his disciples and the few women who were following Him, life was always on the move because the Good News must be proclaimed far and wide.
The gospel makes special mention of these women and a few others who provided for Jesus and His disciples out of their own resources.
They provided for Jesus and His disciples without expecting anything in return. Nor were they looking for benefits.
They were able to make this sacrifice because they themselves had experienced the blessings of the Good News.
St Paul mentioned in the 1st reading that religion is not a way to make a profit.
He added that religion does bring about blessings for those who are already contented with what they have.
So if we say that by believing in God and even serving in Church, we hope that God will bless us with wealth and material benefits, then we have to ask ourselves what the bad news is all about.
To believe in the Good News is to do like what Mary Magdalene, Joanna, Suzanna did. They made their sacrifice for the Lord. The Lord blessed them.
The Lord will bless us too when we make our sacrifice for the Lord.
Lk 8:1-3
To have a job that requires frequent travelling might sound like a lot of fun if we are young.
But as we grow older, then to be living out of a suitcase does takes its toil, and there's no place like home.
But for Jesus and his disciples and the few women who were following Him, life was always on the move because the Good News must be proclaimed far and wide.
The gospel makes special mention of these women and a few others who provided for Jesus and His disciples out of their own resources.
They provided for Jesus and His disciples without expecting anything in return. Nor were they looking for benefits.
They were able to make this sacrifice because they themselves had experienced the blessings of the Good News.
St Paul mentioned in the 1st reading that religion is not a way to make a profit.
He added that religion does bring about blessings for those who are already contented with what they have.
So if we say that by believing in God and even serving in Church, we hope that God will bless us with wealth and material benefits, then we have to ask ourselves what the bad news is all about.
To believe in the Good News is to do like what Mary Magdalene, Joanna, Suzanna did. They made their sacrifice for the Lord. The Lord blessed them.
The Lord will bless us too when we make our sacrifice for the Lord.
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
24th Week, Ordinary Time, Thursday, 17.09.09
1 Tim 4:12-16
Lk 7:36-50
Each person is like a stalk of flower. Just like the rose which is a beautiful flower, every person is beautiful.
Yet with every stalk of rose, there are at least two or three thorns.
Similarly, every person has a few thorns in life.
Thorns of guilt, shame, regrets, hurts and pains.
The thorns are there, but so is the beauty of the rose.
We can choose to look at the beauty of the flower, or we can choose to see how ugly the thorns are.
In the gospel, Simon the Pharisee could only see the ugly thorns of the woman.
Jesus, on the other hand, saw the beauty of the person in the woman.
It is from that beauty that Jesus restored her respect and dignity by granting her forgiveness and healing.
Indeed, the good news is that God wants to forgive our sins and heal us and restore our respect and dignity.
St. Paul also urged Timothy in the first reading, to teach and preach the good news of love and forgiveness.
Timothy may be young, but the message of love and forgiveness is eternal and dynamic.
When we understand and live out this good news of love and forgiveness, we will see the beauty in ourselves as well as in others.
Then we will see this world as a place filled with beautiful flowers
Lk 7:36-50
Each person is like a stalk of flower. Just like the rose which is a beautiful flower, every person is beautiful.
Yet with every stalk of rose, there are at least two or three thorns.
Similarly, every person has a few thorns in life.
Thorns of guilt, shame, regrets, hurts and pains.
The thorns are there, but so is the beauty of the rose.
We can choose to look at the beauty of the flower, or we can choose to see how ugly the thorns are.
In the gospel, Simon the Pharisee could only see the ugly thorns of the woman.
Jesus, on the other hand, saw the beauty of the person in the woman.
It is from that beauty that Jesus restored her respect and dignity by granting her forgiveness and healing.
Indeed, the good news is that God wants to forgive our sins and heal us and restore our respect and dignity.
St. Paul also urged Timothy in the first reading, to teach and preach the good news of love and forgiveness.
Timothy may be young, but the message of love and forgiveness is eternal and dynamic.
When we understand and live out this good news of love and forgiveness, we will see the beauty in ourselves as well as in others.
Then we will see this world as a place filled with beautiful flowers
24th Week, Ordinary Time , Wednesday, 16.09.09
1Tim 3:14-16
Lk 7:31-35
By and large, children are fun to watch and to be with.
But they also can be a pain when they begin to throw tantrums and just being plain childish.
But it can be a real and great pain to see people acting childish.
I would think that Jesus was angry and frustrated with this kind of childish behaviour from adults.
Especially with what He said in today's gospel about the people's childish reaction to Him and John the Baptist.
They were far from the child-like attitude that Jesus taught.
In the 1st reading, St Paul reminded Timothy about how people should behave in church.
Besides the child-like attitude, they also have to be matured people, because only then can they uphold the truth and keep safe the mysteries of the faith.
There is one way to check what kind of a child's attitude is in us and to see how matured we are.
Let us ask ourselves: How do we react when things don't go our way.
Our honest answers will tell us if we are wise and matured enough to understand the truth and see deeper the mysteries of our faith.
Lk 7:31-35
By and large, children are fun to watch and to be with.
But they also can be a pain when they begin to throw tantrums and just being plain childish.
But it can be a real and great pain to see people acting childish.
I would think that Jesus was angry and frustrated with this kind of childish behaviour from adults.
Especially with what He said in today's gospel about the people's childish reaction to Him and John the Baptist.
They were far from the child-like attitude that Jesus taught.
In the 1st reading, St Paul reminded Timothy about how people should behave in church.
Besides the child-like attitude, they also have to be matured people, because only then can they uphold the truth and keep safe the mysteries of the faith.
There is one way to check what kind of a child's attitude is in us and to see how matured we are.
Let us ask ourselves: How do we react when things don't go our way.
Our honest answers will tell us if we are wise and matured enough to understand the truth and see deeper the mysteries of our faith.
Monday, September 14, 2009
Our Lady of Sorrows, 15.09.09
Heb 5:7-9 / Jn 19:25-27 or Lk 2:33-35 (2023)
One of the profound teachings of the Church about suffering is that suffering can be redemptive.
Yesterday the Church celebrates the Exaltation of the Holy Cross, a symbol of redemptive suffering.
Today we stood with Mary at the foot of the cross to share in her sorrow.
Yet, because Christ redeemed the sinful world by His suffering on the cross, then Mary through her sorrow, also contributed to the redemption of the world.
On the cross of suffering, Christ proclaimed Mary to be the Mother of the Church.
As we stand with Mary at the foot of the cross, and as we share in her sorrow, we too become Mary's children, the sons and daughters of the Church.
As sons and daughters of the Church, we unite ourselves with Jesus and Mary in their sorrow and suffering.
Yet we have this great hope that when sorrow and suffering are placed in the hands of God, then there will come about a great new beginning.
On the cross, the world began its journey of redemption and salvation.
At the foot of the cross, the Church began its mission of being a witness of redemptive suffering.
When we place our own sorrow and suffering at the altar of God, let us be assured that God is creating a great new beginning for us.
One of the profound teachings of the Church about suffering is that suffering can be redemptive.
Yesterday the Church celebrates the Exaltation of the Holy Cross, a symbol of redemptive suffering.
Today we stood with Mary at the foot of the cross to share in her sorrow.
Yet, because Christ redeemed the sinful world by His suffering on the cross, then Mary through her sorrow, also contributed to the redemption of the world.
On the cross of suffering, Christ proclaimed Mary to be the Mother of the Church.
As we stand with Mary at the foot of the cross, and as we share in her sorrow, we too become Mary's children, the sons and daughters of the Church.
As sons and daughters of the Church, we unite ourselves with Jesus and Mary in their sorrow and suffering.
Yet we have this great hope that when sorrow and suffering are placed in the hands of God, then there will come about a great new beginning.
On the cross, the world began its journey of redemption and salvation.
At the foot of the cross, the Church began its mission of being a witness of redemptive suffering.
When we place our own sorrow and suffering at the altar of God, let us be assured that God is creating a great new beginning for us.
Sunday, September 13, 2009
The Exaltation of the Holy Cross, 14.09.09
1st Reading: Num 21:4b-9
2nd Reading: Phil 2:6-11
Gospel: Jn 3:13-17 (2009)
Life is surrounded by symbols, and these symbols point to a deeper aspect of life which is called mystery.
In the case of religious symbols, they point to the truth of life which is encompassed in mystery.
For example, the lotus flower is the religious symbol of Buddhism, and it expressed the truth that mankind can rise about the worldly desires, just as the lotus flower rises above the sludge.
For us Christians, the profound symbol of our faith is the cross.
Yet the meaning of the cross may not be that explicit because it points to a deep mystery of life and love.
At first sight, the cross is an instrument of death and suffering.
It can be a stumbling block because we want to avoid suffering.
But with Jesus nailed to the cross, what the cross was meant to do is no longer as important as what God meant it to do.
In the cross, we see the love of God for humanity, that God came into the world not to condemn the world but to save the world.
In the cross, we see God offering His love and His life for us.
In the cross, we see healing and the forgiveness of sins.
In the cross, we see the invitation to discipleship, as well as the cost of discipleship.
In the cross, is not just the symbol of Christianity, but the reality of Christianity.
When we accept the cross, then we will enter into the mystery of life and love.
Thursday, September 10, 2009
23rd Week, Ordinary Time, Sat, 12.09.09
1 Tim 1:15-17
Lk 6:43-49If we come across a beggar and he asks for money and if we do give him some money, we do it most probably out of pity.
Because mercy comes from a compassionate heart; it shows a desire to be with the other in equal terms.
He called himself the greatest of all sinners, and yet God showed him mercy, so that he may know the inexhaustible patience of God.
One obvious way to know whether we have experienced God's mercy and shown that mercy to others is by our words.
And a man's words flow out of what fills his heart.
Let us speak words of mercy, as we ask God to be merciful to us.
23rd Week, Ordinary Time, Fri, 11.09.09
1Tim 1:1-2, 12-14
Lk 6:39-42To be able to read a book from cover to cover, or watch a movie from beginning to end, does not necessarily mean that we know what the book is saying or the meaning of the movie.
In the first reading, St Paul admitted sincerely that he used to a blasphemer and prosecuted Christians.
Indeed, it is only through the mercy of God that we can understand what life is all about, and be enlightened to live a life of love.
Only when we first understand ourselves and see ourselves clearly then we will be able to understand others and see them for who they are.
The caption read: Playing blind is funny for those who can see.
May the mercy of God helps us to see.
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
23rd Week, Ordinary Time, Thur, 10.09.09
Col 3:12-17
Lk 6:27-38
It is quite amusing to see how relationships in life are like some kind of barter trade.
The good that we do to others is also what we expect from others.
It is the Golden Rule of all religions.
It is not just the religious Golden Rule, it is also the Basic Rule of life for humanity.
Yet for us who are Catholics and are disciples of Jesus, we must go beyond the Basic Rule and even surpass the Golden Rule.
The rule of life for us is nothing less than the Divine Rule.
What is the Divine Rule? It is found in today's gospel.
Jesus said to His disciples and that means us!
"Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who treat you badly."
And as Jesus goes on, if we are not squirming or frowning, then it's because we are not listening.
Because the Divine Rule of Jesus goes against every fibre of our narrow myopic human concept of life as a kind of barter trade.
The Divine Rule is a tough rule. Yet St Paul would urge the Colossians: Let the message of Christ, in all its richness, find a home in you.
Yes, the Divine Rule is a tough rule. But it is the rule of love.
To love as God loves is indeed tough.
But when we do so, God's love will also grow in us, His love will strengthen us and comfort us, and the love of Christ in all its richness, will find a home in us.
Lk 6:27-38
It is quite amusing to see how relationships in life are like some kind of barter trade.
The good that we do to others is also what we expect from others.
It is the Golden Rule of all religions.
It is not just the religious Golden Rule, it is also the Basic Rule of life for humanity.
Yet for us who are Catholics and are disciples of Jesus, we must go beyond the Basic Rule and even surpass the Golden Rule.
The rule of life for us is nothing less than the Divine Rule.
What is the Divine Rule? It is found in today's gospel.
Jesus said to His disciples and that means us!
"Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who treat you badly."
And as Jesus goes on, if we are not squirming or frowning, then it's because we are not listening.
Because the Divine Rule of Jesus goes against every fibre of our narrow myopic human concept of life as a kind of barter trade.
The Divine Rule is a tough rule. Yet St Paul would urge the Colossians: Let the message of Christ, in all its richness, find a home in you.
Yes, the Divine Rule is a tough rule. But it is the rule of love.
To love as God loves is indeed tough.
But when we do so, God's love will also grow in us, His love will strengthen us and comfort us, and the love of Christ in all its richness, will find a home in us.
23rd Week, Ordinary Time, Wed, 09.09.09
Col 3:1-11
Lk 6:20-26
Being Catholics, we cannot pretend and we also don't want to pretend that we don't want to have what the people of the world would want to have.
There is a materialistic streak in us, and we also want to have some creature comfort.
So we want to have health and wealth, happiness and enjoyment and contentment.
We certainly don't want to think that in believing in God, we will have to face poverty and hunger, or pain and rejection.
In fact, on the contrary, we would want God to eliminate all sorrow and distress, all pains and suffering from our lives.
If that is the case, then we wouldn't want to pay much attention to today's gospel.
But Jesus is highlighting the truth in life, that over and above everything else, we must long for God and depend on Him alone.
That is also what St Paul was telling the Colossians that they have been brought back to the life in Christ and hence they must look for the things above and not be stuck with the things earth.
Not only St Paul had this spiritual insight. St Teresa of Avila would say: Only God matters. St Francis of Assisi would say: My God and my all.
From what the saints said, we know what they wanted in life.
May we also come to know what we really want in life. So that by our words, others will know what really matters to us.
Lk 6:20-26
Being Catholics, we cannot pretend and we also don't want to pretend that we don't want to have what the people of the world would want to have.
There is a materialistic streak in us, and we also want to have some creature comfort.
So we want to have health and wealth, happiness and enjoyment and contentment.
We certainly don't want to think that in believing in God, we will have to face poverty and hunger, or pain and rejection.
In fact, on the contrary, we would want God to eliminate all sorrow and distress, all pains and suffering from our lives.
If that is the case, then we wouldn't want to pay much attention to today's gospel.
But Jesus is highlighting the truth in life, that over and above everything else, we must long for God and depend on Him alone.
That is also what St Paul was telling the Colossians that they have been brought back to the life in Christ and hence they must look for the things above and not be stuck with the things earth.
Not only St Paul had this spiritual insight. St Teresa of Avila would say: Only God matters. St Francis of Assisi would say: My God and my all.
From what the saints said, we know what they wanted in life.
May we also come to know what we really want in life. So that by our words, others will know what really matters to us.
Saturday, September 5, 2009
The Nativity of Blessed Virgin Mary, 08.09.09
Micah 5:1-4 or Rom 8:28-30 / Mathew 1:1-16, 18-23 (2023)
If we have to think of a gospel passage or a bible passage to dedicate to someone on his/her birthday, we would certainly think of a profound passage that might include God blessing the person, etc.
But to celebrate the birthday of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the passage is chosen from the gospel of Mathew and it talks about Joseph wanting to divorce Mary and the angel had to intervene.
The gospel passage sounded too human, a bit too profane even.
Yes, Mary's fears came true in that Joseph wanted to divorce her and that might leave her to face an uncertain future.
Yet, the humanity, the humaness, of Mary and Joseph are highlighted, to show us that they too had to face their fears and worries when it comes to doing God's will.
In fact, fear has that ability and that potential to paralyse us from doing God's will and glorifying God.
But, at the Annunciation, God told Mary "do not fear"; in today's gospel passage God tells Joseph "do not fear".
As we celebrate this Eucharist, God is also telling us "do not fear'.
Yes, do not fear because God is with us. Do not fear because we also have a heavenly Mother who is always praying for us.
Yes, Mother Mary prays for us, that we too, like her will bring Jesus to others so that they will know that God is with them.
If we have to think of a gospel passage or a bible passage to dedicate to someone on his/her birthday, we would certainly think of a profound passage that might include God blessing the person, etc.
But to celebrate the birthday of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the passage is chosen from the gospel of Mathew and it talks about Joseph wanting to divorce Mary and the angel had to intervene.
The gospel passage sounded too human, a bit too profane even.
Yes, Mary's fears came true in that Joseph wanted to divorce her and that might leave her to face an uncertain future.
Yet, the humanity, the humaness, of Mary and Joseph are highlighted, to show us that they too had to face their fears and worries when it comes to doing God's will.
In fact, fear has that ability and that potential to paralyse us from doing God's will and glorifying God.
But, at the Annunciation, God told Mary "do not fear"; in today's gospel passage God tells Joseph "do not fear".
As we celebrate this Eucharist, God is also telling us "do not fear'.
Yes, do not fear because God is with us. Do not fear because we also have a heavenly Mother who is always praying for us.
Yes, Mother Mary prays for us, that we too, like her will bring Jesus to others so that they will know that God is with them.
Thursday, September 3, 2009
23 Week, Ordinary Time, Mon, 07.09.09
Col 1:24-2:3
Lk 6:6-11There is one verse in the letter to the Romans (8:18) that is a profound reminder to me.
The letter to the Romans is accredited to St Paul.
One of the favourite themes of St Paul is about the sufferings of this present age and its meaning.
Although St Paul was wearied by his struggles, yet he suffered gladly because he knew it was nothing compared to the eternal glory awaiting him.
Today's readings remind us that when we do the good and right things, we can forget about being rewarded because that is our duty.
We must remember that evil is not eternal. What is eternal is the glory and the reward that is awaiting us.
22nd Week, Ordinary Time, Sat, 05.09.09
Col 1:21-23
Lk 6:1-5Let us say that this morning, you met someone and wished him "good morning".
There will be 2 things that we might do: either get into a tangle of heated words with that person, or just, let it be and be happy that you tried to make someone's day better.
A reaction could be quite scorching, a response could be quite sublime.
But Jesus responded to their reaction. He made them think and reflect.
As Christians, we should know what to choose.
A reaction to a situation would only result in tension.
Jesus is the master of Sabbath. Let Him also be the master of every situation. That is our Christian response.
22nd Week, Ordinary Time, Fri, 04.09.09
Col 1:15-20
Lk 5:33-39Change is not exactly easy to accept.
Take for example, when the popular computer operating system XP was changed to Windows Vista.
Even Jesus would acknowledge the fact that change is not easy to accept, when He used the phrase "The old is good".
Hence, the example of the new wine in new wineskin is indeed a good illustration.
Jesus came to renew all creation; Jesus came to renew humanity so that mankind can now have a deeper meaning and existence.
But now because of Jesus, man now shares in the divinity of God.
So it all comes down to this: God descended into humanity, so that humanity can be raised to divinity.
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
22nd Week, Ordinary Time, Thursday, 03.09.09
Col 1:9-14
Lk 5:1-11Among all the apostles, the one that we know about the most and hence talked about very often is St Peter.
As we know it, St Peter denied Jesus, he slept during prayer, he was impulsive, rather boastful and shoots his mouth off.
In this gospel, we see that sincerity along with his humility.
And when he saw the truth in Jesus he was sincere about acknowledging his unworthiness and limitations.
St Paul told the Colossians that a perfect wisdom and spiritual understanding are the keys to knowing the will of God.
With humility and sincerity, we will, like St Peter, put out into the deep, and there experience the depth of God.
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