Reflection for Sunday June 1, The Solemnity of the Ascension of the Lord: Luke 24:46-53

Gospel: Luke 24:46-53

Jesus said to his disciples: “Thus it is written that the Christ would suffer and rise from the dead on the third day and that repentance, for the forgiveness of sins, would be preached in his name to all the nations, beginning from Jerusalem. You are witnesses of these things. 

And behold I am sending the promise of my Father upon you; but stay in the city until you are clothed with power from on high.” Then he led them out as far as Bethany, raised his hands, and blessed them. 

As he blessed them he parted from them and was taken up to heaven. They did him homage and then returned to Jerusalem with great joy, and they were continually in the temple praising God.

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Reflection:

There is a story about a father who was preparing to leave for work in a faraway place. Before departing, he gathered his children and lovingly reminded them not to forget the responsibilities he had entrusted to each of them. He assured them that if any need or trouble arose, they could reach out to him anytime—and he would always be there for them. 

In much the same way, after forty days following His glorious resurrection, and after many sacred appearances to His disciples, Jesus—our Divine Lord—was ready to return to the Father. His earthly mission was complete. It was time for Him to ascend into heaven. 

But before He ascended, He entrusted a sacred task to His apostles—the mission to continue His work, to proclaim the Gospel to all nations, and to be His living witnesses. 

What does the Ascension signify to the apostles? It is both a moment of parting and a moment of commissioning. It signifies that the responsibility to spread the Good News now rests in their hands. They could no longer remain still. The torch had been passed. They were now called to carry the light of Christ into the world. 

Did they succeed? Yes, by the grace of God, they did. But it was no easy path. They endured persecution, trials, and hardships. Yet with unwavering faith and bold hearts, they fulfilled their mission with courage and joy. 

The Ascension of our Lord is not just a moment in salvation history—it is also a divine reminder to us today. We are now His modern-day disciples. The mission continues through us. Upon our shoulders rests this sacred responsibility to share the love and mission of Jesus and proclaim His truth. 

But we often hesitate. We feel unworthy. We say, “Lord, I am not a good speaker,” or “I don’t have the gifts, the talent, or the resources.” Yet evangelization is not limited to eloquence or ability. It flows from a heart in love with Christ. 

We evangelize through our compassion, our humility, and our daily acts of kindness. Our lives can become living testimonies of God’s love. Even a simple act of sharing a Gospel passage online, or offering a prayerful word to someone in need, is already a powerful form of evangelization. 

Sometimes, we are held back by fear—fear of rejection, fear of judgment, fear of not being good enough. But Scripture reminds us: “God did not give us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-discipline” (2 Timothy 1:7). When we step out in faith, the Holy Spirit empowers us. 

As Jesus ascends into heaven, He does not leave us alone. He promises to be with us always, and He sends the Holy Spirit to guide and strengthen us. The mission is now ours. The question is: Will we answer His call? – Marino J. Dasmarinas

Ang Mabuting Balita at Repleksyon para sa Linggo Hunyo 1, Ang Pag-Akyat ng Panginoon:Lucas 24:46-53

Mabuting Balita: Lucas 24:46-53

Noong panahong iyon, sinabi ni Hesus sa kanyang mga alagad: “Ganito ang nasusulat: kinakailangang magbata ng hirap at mamatay ang Mesiyas at muling mabuhay sa ikatlong araw. 

Sa kanyang pangalan, ang pagsisisi at kapatawaran ng mga kasalanan ay dapat ipangaral sa lahat ng bansa, magmula sa Jerusalem. Kayo ang mga saksi sa mga bagay na ito. Tandaan ninyo: susuguin ko sa inyo ang ipinangako ng aking Ama, kaya’t huwag kayong aalis sa lungsod hanggang hindi kayo napagkakalooban ng kapangyarihan mula sa itaas.” 

Pagkatapos, sila’y isinama ni Hesus sa labas ng lungsod. Pagdating sa Betania, itinaas niya ang kanyang mga kamay at pinagpala sila. Samantalang iginagawad niya ito, siya nama’y lumalayo paakyat sa langit. Siya’y sinamba nila; pagkatapos, sila’y nagbalik sa Jerusalem, taglay ang malaking kagalakan. Palagi sila sa templo at doo’y nagpupuri sa Diyos.

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Repleksyon:

May isang kuwento tungkol sa isang ama na naghahanda nang umalis upang magtrabaho sa isang malayong lugar. Bago siya umalis, tinipon niya ang kaniyang mga anak at buong pagmamahal na pinaalalahanan silang huwag kalilimutan ang mga responsibilidad na ipinagkatiwala niya sa bawat isa sa kanila. Tiniyak din niya na kung sakaling may pangangailangan o problema, maaari siyang kontakin at palagi siyang magiging naroon para sa kanila.

Matapos ang apatnapung araw mula sa Kaniyang maluwalhating muling pagkabuhay at matapos ang maraming pagpapakita sa Kaniyang mga alagad, si Jesus — ay handa nang bumalik sa Ama. Tapos na ang Kaniyang misyon sa mundo. Panahon na upang Siya ay umakyat sa langit.

Ngunit bago Siya umakyat, ipinagkatiwala Niya ang isang banal na tungkulin sa Kaniyang mga apostol—ang misyon na ipagpatuloy ang Kaniyang gawain, ipahayag ang Mabuting Balita sa lahat ng bansa, at maging buhay na saksi ng Kaniyang presensya.

Ano ang kahulugan ng Pag-akyat sa Langit para sa mga apostol? Isa itong sandali ng pamamaalam ngunit isa ring sandali ng pagkatalaga. Ipinahihiwatig nito na ang pananagutan sa pagpapalaganap ng Mabuting Balita ay nasa kanilang mga kamay na ngayon. Hindi na sila maaaring manatiling walang ginagawa. Tinatawag na silang dalhin ang liwanag ni Kristo sa sanlibutan.

Nagtagumpay ba sila? Oo, sa biyaya ng Diyos, nagtagumpay sila. Ngunit hindi ito naging madali. Dumaan sila sa pag-uusig, mga pagsubok, at kahirapan. Gayunman, dahil sa matatag na pananampalataya ay tinupad nila ang kanilang misyon nang may kagalakan kahit na ito ay mahirap.

Ang Pag-akyat ng ating Panginoon ay hindi lamang isang pangyayari sa kasaysayan ng kaligtasan—isa rin itong banal na paalala sa atin sa kasalukuyan. Tayo na ngayon ang Kaniyang mga alagad sa makabagong panahong ito ng social media. Nagpapatuloy ang misyon sa pamamagitan natin. Nasa ating mga balikat ang banal na tungkulin na ibahagi ang pag-ibig ni Jesus at ipahayag ang Kaniyang katotohanan.

Ngunit kadalasan, tayo ay nag-aatubili. Pakiramdam natin ay hindi tayo karapat-dapat. Sinasabi natin, “Panginoon, hindi ako magaling magsalita,” o “Wala akong kakayahan, talento, o sapat na yaman.” Ngunit ang ebanghelisasyon ay hindi nakasalalay sa pagiging mahusay o may kakayahan. Ito ay nagmumula sa pusong umiibig kay Kristo.

Ipinapahayag natin ang Ebanghelyo sa pamamagitan ng ating pag mamalasakit at pagtulong sa ating kapwa, kababaang-loob, at araw-araw na mga gawa ng kabutihan. Maaaring maging buhay na patotoo ang ating mga buhay sa pag-ibig ng Diyos. Kahit isang simpleng pagbabahagi ng talata mula sa Ebanghelyo online, o pagbibigay ng payo sa isang nangangailangan, ay isang makapangyarihang anyo ng ebanghelisasyon.

Minsan tayo ay pinipigilan ng takot—takot na ma-reject, takot na husgahan, takot na hindi sapat ang ating kakayahan. Ngunit pinaaalalahanan tayo ng Kasulatan: “Sapagkat ang espiritung ibinigay sa atin ng Diyos ay hindi espiritu ng kahinaan, kundi espiritu ng kapangyarihan, pag-ibig, at pagpipigil sa sarili” (2 Timoteo 1:7). Kapag tayo’y kumilos sa pananampalataya, pinapalakas tayo ng Espiritu Santo.

Habang si Jesus ay umaakyat sa langit, hindi Niya tayo iniiwan. Ipinangako Niyang mananatili Siyang kasama natin magpakailanman, at isinugo Niya ang Espiritu Santo upang gabayan at palakasin tayo. Nasa atin na ngayon ang misyon. Ang tanong: Tutuparin ba natin ito? – Marino J. Dasmarinas

Reflection for Saturday May 31 Feast of the Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary: Luke 1:39-56

Gospel: Luke 1:39-56

Mary set out and traveled to the hill country in haste to a town of Judah, where she entered the house of Zechariah and greeted Elizabeth. When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the infant leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth, filled with the Holy Spirit, cried out in a loud voice and said, “Most blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb. 

And how does this happen to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? For at the moment the sound of your greeting reached my ears, the infant in my womb leaped for joy. Blessed are you who believed that what was spoken to you by the Lord would be fulfilled.”   

And Mary said: “My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord; my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has looked with favor on his lowly servant. From this day all generations will call me blessed: the Almighty has done great things for me, and holy is his Name.  

He has mercy on those who fear him in every generation. He has shown the strength of his arm, he has scattered the proud in their conceit. He has cast down the mighty from their thrones, and has lifted up the lowly. He has filled the hungry with good things, and the rich he has sent away empty. He has come to the help of his servant Israel for he has remembered his promise of mercy, the promise he made to our fathers, to Abraham and his children for ever.”  

Mary remained with her about three months and then returned to her home.

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Reflection:

Would you exert effort to give a relative a surprise visit?

Many of us are so caught up in the busyness of life that we hardly have time for this kind of simple but noble act of love. We are pulled in many directions by our worldly preoccupations, and oftentimes, reaching out to relatives or friends feels like a luxury we can no longer afford.

But even when we are too busy, the Blessed Mother always has time.

Imagine this: Mary, carrying Jesus in her womb, undertakes a long and difficult journey—riding on a donkey across hills and valleys—not for her own needs, but simply to be present to her cousin Elizabeth. She travelled not out of obligation, but out of love, humility, and self-giving concern.

Who among us would do the same today? Perhaps only a few—because many of us have allowed the world to dictate our pace, to tell us we must always be accomplishing something, always busy, always occupied with earthly concerns.

But what do we sacrifice in return? Our relationships. Our connections with family and friends. The joy of presence. The gift of simply being there for someone.

When we become too focused on the things of this world, the bonds that tie us to our loved ones begin to fade. That is never how God intended us to live.

How about Mary? She did not think of her own comfort or condition. She was pregnant too. She could have stayed home, rested, and waited. But no—she made time, because her heart overflowed with love, compassion, and deep faith in God’s mission.

She teaches us something timeless: True love makes time. True love shows up. How many of us are still willing to forget ourselves, even for a little while, to visit a relative or a friend? Not to bring anything grand, but simply to bring our presence—our love, our comfort, our joy. That is what Mary did.

May we learn from the Blessed Mother. May we find time—just as she did—to step out of ourselves and into the lives of those who need us most. – Marino J. Dasmarinas 

Reflection for Friday May 30 of the Sixth Week of Easter: John 16:20-23

Gospel: John 16:20-23

Jesus said to his disciples: “Amen, amen, I say to you, you will weep and mourn while the world rejoices; you will grieve, but your grief will become joy. When a woman is in labor, she is in anguish because her hour has arrived; but when she has given birth to a child, she no longer remembers the pain because of her joy that a child has been born into the world. 

So you also are now in anguish. But I will see you again, and your hearts will rejoice and no one will take your joy away from you. On that day you will not question me about anything. Amen, amen, I say to you, whatever you ask the Father in my name he will give you.”

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Reflection:

Are you afraid to go through suffering? 

We all are. As much as possible, we try to avoid pain and hardship in life. Deep within, we long for a suffering-free existence. But for those who believe in and follow Jesus, a life without suffering is not part of our journey. 

Why? Because it is often through our sufferings that we come to deeply experience the abiding presence of Jesus in our lives. In our moments of weakness and sorrow, He draws nearer, reminding us that we are never alone. 

Jesus does not promise us a life without trials, but He does promise to walk with us and strengthen us—if we steadfastly hold on to Him. Even now, many of us carry silent burdens, unseen struggles. And yet, in the midst of our pain, we choose to cling tightly to our faith in Jesus. Through that unshakable faith, we find the strength to carry on, one day at a time. 

In our Gospel this Friday, Jesus tells His disciples: “You will weep and mourn...” (John 16:20) He spoke these words as His hour of suffering—His arrest, passion, and death—was drawing near. But He also assured them that joy would follow. Their sorrow would turn to rejoicing—a joy and triumph that no one could take away. This joy comes from His resurrection and His glorious victory over death. 

What matters most is that we continue to hold on to Jesus, no matter how intense the trials we face. For if we remain unwavering in our faith, there will surely come a day of triumph—a day when all our tears will be wiped away, and our pain will be transformed into divine joy. 

Let us not fear suffering, for in it, we are drawn closer to the heart of our Savior. – Marino J. Dasmarinas

Ang Mabuting Balita Mayo 30 Biyernes sa Ika-anim na Linggo ng Pasko ng Pagkabuhay: Juan 16:20-23

Mabuting Balita: Juan 16:20-23

Noong panahong iyon, sinabi ni Hesus sa kanyang mga alagad: “Sinasabi ko sa inyo: tatangis kayo at magdadalamhati, ngunit magagalak ang sanlibutan. Matitigib kayo ng kalungkutan, subalit ito'y magiging kagalakan. Kapag nagdaramdam na ang isang babaing manganganak, siya'y nahahapis, sapagkat dumating na ang oras ng kanyang paghihirap. 

Ngunit pagkapanganak, hindi na niya naaalaala ang hirap; siya'y nagagalak dahil sa ipinanganak na sa sanlibutan ang isang sanggol. Gayon din naman kayo: nalulumbay kayo ngayon, ngunit muli akong makikipagkita sa inyo at mag-uumapaw sa puso ninyo ang kagalakang hindi maaagaw ninuman. 

"Hindi na kayo kailangang magtanong sa akin sa araw na iyon. " Tandaan ninyo: anumang hingin ninyo sa Ama sa aking pangalan ay ibibigay niya sa inyo.

Reflection for May 29 Thursday of the Sixth Week of Easter: John 16:16-20

Gospel: John 16:16-20

Jesus said to his disciples: "A little while and you will no longer see me, and again a little while later and you will see me." 

So some of his disciples said to one another, "What does this mean that he is saying to us, 'A little while and you will not see me, and again a little while and you will see me,' and 'Because I am going to the Father'?" 

So they said, "What is this 'little while' of which he speaks? We do not know what he means." Jesus knew that they wanted to ask him, so he said to them, "Are you discussing with one another what I said, 'A little while and you will not see me, and again a little while and you will see me'? 

Amen, amen, I say to you, you will weep and mourn, while the world rejoices; you will grieve, but your grief will become joy."

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Reflection:

Are you afraid of separation? 

Separation from someone we have deeply loved or even idolized is one of the most painful emotions we can ever experience. When a loved one passes away, it can feel as though a part of our very being dies with them. From that moment on, something in us feels incomplete. Such is the heart-wrenching weight of certain separations. 

In today’s Gospel, Jesus is preparing His disciples for His departure. He knows that soon, He will be arrested, tortured, and crucified. He is saying goodbye—not out of fear, but out of love, to prepare their hearts. Yet He offers them hope: “In a little while, you will see me.” Jesus was referring to His resurrection, the glorious rising from the dead three days after His crucifixion. 

Unlike the finality of earthly separation, the disciples’ parting from Jesus was only temporary. He returned—victorious over death—to assure them, and all of us, that separation from Him is never permanent. 

As followers of Christ today, we are never truly separated from our Lord. Through the power of the Holy Spirit and the grace of the sacraments, we are constantly united with Him. He is alive and present within us—especially when we open our hearts to His Word, live out His teachings, and express humble, selfless love to others. 

Let us not be afraid of separation, for the love of Christ bridges all distances. In prayer, in humility, and in love—we remain close to Him, and He remains within us. — Marino J. Dasmarinas

Ang Mabuting Balita Mayo 29 Huwebes sa Ika-anim na Linggo ng Pasko ng Pagkabuhay: Juan 16:16-20

Mabuting Balita: Juan 16:16-20

Noong panahong iyon, sinabi ni Hesus sa kanyang mga alagad: "Kaunting panahon na lamang at hindi na ninyo ako makikita; at pagkaraan ng kaunting panahon pa, ako'y inyong makikita uli." Nag-usap-usap ang ilan sa mga alagad, "Ano kaya ang ibig niyang sabihin? 

Bakit niya sinasabing kaunting panahon na lang at hindi na natin siya makikita uli? Sabi pa niya'y 'Sapagkat ako'y paroroon sa Ama.' Ano kaya ang ibig sabihin ng 'kaunting panahon na lamang'? Hindi natin maunawaan!"  

Naramdaman ni Jesus na ibig nilang magtanong, kaya't sinabi niya, "Nagtatanungan kayo tungkol sa sinabi kong kaunting panahon na lamang at hindi na ninyo ako makikita; at pagkaraan ng kaunting panahon, ako'y inyong makikita uli. Sinasabi ko sa inyo: tatangis kayo at magdadalamhati, ngunit magagalak ang sanlibutan. Matitigib kayo ng kalungkutan, subalit ito'y magiging kagalakan.

Reflection for May 28 Wednesday of the Sixth Week of Easter: John 16:12-15

Gospel: John 16:12-15

Jesus said to his disciples: “I have much more to tell you, but you cannot bear it now. But when he comes, the Spirit of truth, he will guide you to all truth. He will not speak on his own, but he will speak what he hears, and will declare to you the things that are coming.  

He will glorify me, because he will take from what is mine and declare it to you. Everything that the Father has is mine; for this reason I told you that he will take from what is mine and declare it to you.”

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Reflection:

The story is told of a prayerful wife who would always make the first move to reconcile with her husband whenever they had misunderstandings. In their twenty-five years of marriage, it was always she who humbly initiated reconciliation. And each time, by the grace of God, she was successful in her peace offerings toward her husband.

Who moves her heart to reconcile? It is the Holy Spirit. He gently guides her, speaks to her soul, and whispers to her mind, urging her to be humble and make the first move. Why does she listen? Because she is prayerful. In silence and in prayer, she discerns and recognizes the voice of the Holy Spirit.

God the Holy Spirit is our Advocate, our Comforter, our Divine Companion—ever present with us since the moment of our Baptism. His presence was sealed and deepened within us during our Confirmation. Yet sadly, not all of us are aware of His loving presence dwelling in our hearts.

The Holy Spirit is always there—ready to guide, to console, to lead us back to the path of peace and holiness. But why are we often unaware of Him? Because many of us do not live prayerfully. A heart that prays is a heart that hears. It is through a life of prayer that we begin to recognize the gentle stirrings of the Holy Spirit within us.

Are you living a prayerful life? Are you aware of the sacred and constant presence of the Holy Spirit in your life? If not yet, begin today. Start praying, even in small, quiet moments—and slowly but surely, your heart will awaken to the beautiful awareness of the Holy Spirit’s presence and guidance in your life. — Marino J. Dasmarinas 

Ang Mabuting Balita Mayo 28 Miyerkules sa Ika-anim na Linggo ng Pasko ng Pagkabuhay: Juan 16:12-15

Mabuting Balita: Juan 16:12 – 15

Noong panahong iyon, sinabi ni Hesus sa kanyang mga alagad: "Marami pa akong sasabihin sa inyo, ngunit hindi pa ninyo kayang unawain ngayon. Pagdating ng Espiritu ng katotohanan, tutulungan niya kayo upang maunawaan ang buong katotohanan. 

Sapagkat magsasalita siya hindi sa ganang kanyang sarili; sasabihin niya sa inyo ang kanyang narinig, at ipapahayag ang mga bagay na darating. Pararangalan niya ako, sapagkat sa akin magmumula ang ipapahayag niya sa inyo. Ang lahat ng sa Ama ay akin; kaya ko sinabing sa akin magmumula ang ipapahayag niya sa inyo."  

Reflection for May 27 Tuesday of the Sixth Week of Easter: John 16:5-11

Gospel: John 16:5-11

Jesus said to his disciples: "Now I am going to the one who sent me, and not one of you asks me, 'Where are you going?' But because I told you this, grief has filled your hearts. But I tell you the truth, it is better for you that I go. For if I do not go, the Advocate will not come to you. But if I go, I will send him to you.   

And when he comes he will convict the world in regard to sin and righteousness and condemnation: sin, because they do not believe in me; righteousness, because I am going to the Father and you will no longer see me; condemnation, because the ruler of this world has been condemned."

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Reflection:    

Have you ever experienced saying goodbye? 

Saying goodbye—especially a final farewell to a loved one or a dear friend—is one of life’s most heart-wrenching experiences. In our humanity, we often wish that goodbyes never had to exist. But the truth remains: each of us will face a moment when we must say goodbye, at a time appointed by God, according to His divine will. 

Yet even in the face of that reality, we are invited to live lives of meaning and purpose. Let us not allow our goodbye to be easily forgotten. Instead, may we strive to leave behind a legacy of love, kindness, and faith. 

Let us sow goodness each day—small acts of compassion, words of encouragement, silent prayers for others—that will live on in the hearts of those we leave behind. So when our time comes, the memory of our deeds will speak of a life well-lived in the service of God and neighbor. 

In today’s Gospel, Jesus was gently preparing His disciples for His departure. He was saying goodbye—not with despair, but with love and the promise of the Holy Spirit. Over two thousand years have passed, yet Jesus remains alive in our hearts, still transforming lives. Why? Because He offered the greatest act of love: laying down His life for our salvation. 

As followers of Christ, we are called to do the same—not in grand gestures, but in daily acts of selflessness and faithfulness. May we, like Jesus, leave behind a lasting imprint of God’s love in this world. And when our final goodbye comes, may others remember not just our name, but the Christ they encountered through our lives. – Marino J. Dasmarinas

Ang Mabuting Balita Mayo 27 Martes sa Ika-anim na Linggo ng Pasko ng Pagkabuhay: Juan 16:5-11

Mabuting Balita: Juan 16:5-11

Noong panahong iyon, sinabi ni Jesus sa kanyang mga alagad: "Ngayo'y paroroon na ako sa nagsugo sa akin. Wala isa man sa inyong nagtatanong sa akin kung saan ako pupunta. At ngayong sabihin ko sa inyo, natigib kayo ng kalungkutan. Ngunit dapat ninyong malaman ang katotohanan: ang pag-alis ko'y sa ikabubuti ninyo, sapagkat hindi paparito sa inyo ang patnubay kung hindi ako aalis. 

Ngunit kung umalis ako, susuguin ko siya sa inyo. Pagdating niya ay kanyang patutunayan sa mga tao sa sanlibutan na mali ang pagkakilala nila sa kasalanan, at ipakikilala niya kung ano ang matuwid, at kung ano ang kahatulan. Mali sila tungkol sa kasalanan, sapagkat hindi sila nanalig sa akin; tungkol sa matuwid, sapagkat ako'y paroroon sa Ama at hindi na ninyo makikita; tungkol sa kahatulan, sapagkat hinatulan na ang pinuno ng sanlibutang ito."

Reflection for Monday May 26 Memorial of Saint Philip Neri, Priest: John 15:26—16:4a

Gospel: John 15:26—16:4a

Jesus said to his disciples: “When the Advocate comes whom I will send you from the Father, the Spirit of truth who proceeds from the Father, he will testify to me. And you also testify, because you have been with me from the beginning.     

“I have told you this so that you may not fall away. They will expel you from the synagogues; in fact, the hour is coming when everyone who kills you will think he is offering worship to God. They will do this because they have not known either the Father or me. I have told you this so that when their hour comes you may remember that I told you.”

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Reflection:

The story is told of a man who longed deeply to feel the presence of the Holy Spirit in his life. He would often whisper, “Come, Holy Spirit, I need You.” He repeated this prayer countless times—but still, he felt nothing. 

Simply calling upon the Holy Spirit is not enough. Yes, it is good to invite Him, but we must go beyond the words. We must live lives that are truly attuned to the teachings of our Lord Jesus. We must not only speak His words—we must live and breathe them, so to speak. 

As we strive each day to walk in the footsteps of Christ, something beautiful begins to happen. Slowly but surely, we start to feel the quiet, empowering presence of the Advocate—the Holy Spirit. He does not rush in with fanfare, but gently fills the soul that is faithful and sincere. 

Let us therefore live out the Gospel boldly and joyfully. Let us not be afraid to share it, live it, and be transformed by it. For it is only by living the teachings of Jesus that we can truly discern and experience the abiding presence of the Holy Spirit in our lives. 

In the Gospel, Jesus speaks to His disciples about the coming of the Advocate—none other than the Holy Spirit. He assures them that the Spirit will be given to them at the right time, according to His will. What Jesus asks of them—and of us—is simple but profound: to remain faithful to Him and to His word. 

May we never forget that inviting the Holy Spirit into our lives is a beautiful beginning, but it is not the end. To truly welcome Him, we must also live in faithful obedience to Christ. When we do, we will indeed feel His presence within us—the Holy Spirit, our Comforter, our Guide, our Advocate. – Marino J. Dasmarinas

Ang Mabuting Balita Lunes Mayo 26 Paggunita kay San Felipe Neri, pari: Juan 15:26-16:4a

Mabuting Balita: Juan 15:26-16:4a

Noong panahong iyon, sinabi ni Hesus sa kanyang mga alagad: "Ngunit ang Patnubay, ang Espiritu ng Katotohan, ang paparito mula sa Ama. Susuguin ko siya sa inyo buhat sa Ama, at siya ang magpapatotoo tungkol sa akin. At magpapatotoo rin kayo tungkol sa akin, sapagkat sa pasimula pa'y kasama ko na kayo. 

"Sinasabi ko ito sa inyo upang huwag kayong mawalan ng pananalig sa akin. Palalayasin nila kayo sa mga sinagoga. Darating ang panahon na ang sinumang pumatay sa inyo ay mag-aakalang naglilingkod siya sa Diyos. At gagawin nila ito sapagkat hindi nila ako nakikilala ni ang Ama. Ito'y sinasabi ko sa inyo upang, pagdating ng oras na gawin nila, maalaala ninyong ipinagpauna ko na ito sa inyo." 

Reflection for May 25 Sixth Sunday of Easter: John 14:23-29

Gospel: John 14:23-29

Jesus said to his disciples: “Whoever loves me will keep my word, and my Father will love him, and we will come to him and make our dwelling with him. Whoever does not love me does not keep my words; yet the word you hear is not mine but that of the Father who sent me. 

“I have told you this while I am with you. The Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you everything and remind you of all that I told you. Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give it to you. 

Do not let your hearts be troubled or afraid. You heard me tell you, ‘I am going away and I will come back to you.’ If you loved me, you would rejoice that I am going to the Father; for the Father is greater than I. And now I have told you this before it happens, so that when it happens you may believe.”

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Reflection:

The story is told of a woman who pledged her undying love for God through her active involvement in a charismatic prayer group. Yet, the irony of her loud profession of love was her quiet ambition—to assert leadership even when many in the group opposed it. One cannot help but ask: does this woman truly love God? And if she does, does she walk in His commandments?

In this Sunday’s Gospel, our Lord Jesus gently reminds us of the inseparable link between love, obedience, and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. He speaks not only of love, but of a love that proves itself through faithfulness—a love that brings peace, not division. How can we claim to love God if we disregard His word? How can we welcome the presence of the Holy Spirit if our lives are cluttered with self-interest and pride, dressed as devotion?

Many of us proclaim with our lips that we love the Lord. We profess our belief in the Most Holy Trinity—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—and faithfully attend Sunday Mass. Yet, how often do our actions betray our words? How often do we honor God with our lips while our hearts remain far from Him?

We are called to pause and reflect deeply. If we truly desire a life in Christ, then a radical transformation must take place within us—a conversion of the heart. Only then can we say, with sincerity and truth, that we are living His word and walking in His light.

For one day, we will leave this world behind. And when that hour comes, no earthly possession, power or title will matter. What will matter is whether we lived for Christ, loved Him, and kept His commandments.

Heaven is not earned by eloquent prayers or impressive positions—but by a heart wholly surrendered to God. The path to eternal life is simple, yet profound: to love God with all our heart, and to keep His commandments. — Marino J. Dasmarinas

Ang Mabuting Balita at Repleksyon para sa Mayo 25, Ikaanim na Linggo ng Pasko ng Muling Pagkabuhay: Juan 14:23-29

Mabuting Balita: Juan  14:23-29

Noong panahong iyon: Sinabi ni Hesus sa kanyang mga alagad, “Ang umiibig sa akin ay tutupad ng aking salita; iibigin siya ng aking Ama, at kami’y sasakanya at mananahan sa kanya. Ang hindi umiibig sa akin ay hindi tumutupad sa aking mga salita. Hindi akin ang salitang narinig ninyo, kundi sa Amang nagsugo sa akin. 

“Sinabi ko sa inyo ang mga bagay na ito samantalang kasama pa ninyo ako. Ngunit ang Patnubay, ang Espiritu Santo na susuguin ng Ama sa pangalan ko, ang siyang magtuturo sa inyo ng lahat ng bagay at magpapaalaala ng lahat ng sinabi ko sa inyo. 

“Kapayapaan ang iniiwan ko sa inyo. Ang aking kapayapaan ang ibinibigay ko sa inyo; hindi ito katulad ng ibinibigay ng sanlibutan. Huwag kayong mabalisa; huwag kayong matakot. Sinabi ko na sa inyo, ‘Ako’y aalis, ngunit babalik ako.’ Kung iniibig ninyo ako, ikagagalak ninyo ang pagpunta ko sa Ama, sapagkat dakila ang Ama kaysa sa akin. Sinasabi ko na ito sa inyo bago pa mangyari upang, kung mangyari na, kayo’y manalig sa akin.

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Repleksyon:

May isang kuwento tungkol sa isang babae na nangakong mamahalin ang Diyos nang walang hanggan sa pamamagitan ng kanyang pagsali sa isang charismatic prayer group. Ngunit sa likod ng kanyang pagsali ay ang kanyang ambisyon—na pamunuan ang grupo par magamit niya sa kanyang pansariling interes. Hindi maiwasang itanong natin ang ganito: tunay ba ang pag-ibig ng babaeng ito sa Diyos? 

Sa atin pong Mabuting Balita ngayong Linggo, pinaaalala sa atin ng ating Panginoong Jesu- Kristo ang hindi mapaghihiwalay na ugnayan ng pag-ibig, pagsunod, at pananahan ng Banal na Espiritu sa ating puso. Hindi lamang si Jesus nagsasalita tungkol sa pag-ibig, kundi sa isang pag-ibig na pinatutunayan sa katapatan—pag-ibig na nagdudulot ng kapayapaan, hindi pagkakawatak-watak. 

Paano natin masasabing mahal natin ang Diyos kung binabale-wala natin ang Kanyang salita? Paano natin tatanggapin ang presensya ng Banal naEspiritu Santo kung ang ating buhay ay puno ng pansariling interes? 

Marami sa atin ang nagsasabing mahal natin ang Panginoon. Ipinahahayag natin ang ating pananampalataya sa Kabanal-banalang Santatlo—Ama, Anak, at Espiritu Santo—at dumadalo sa Banal na Misa tuwing Linggo. Pero kadalasan ay hindi naaayon ang ating mga gawa sa ating mga sinasabi. Gaano kadalas tayong nagpaparangal sa Diyos sa pamamagitan ng ating mga labi, subalit ang ating mga puso ay malayo naman sa Kanya? 

Tayo ay inaanyayahan na magnilay nang malalim. Kung tunay nating hinahangad ang isang buhay kay Kristo, kinakailangan natin ng isang radikal na pagbabagong-loob—isang pagbabagong nagmumula sa puso. Tanging sa ganitong paraan natin masasabing may katapatan at katotohanan na isinasabuhay natin ang Kanyang Salita at lumalakad tayo sa Kanyang liwanag. 

Darating ang araw na iiwan natin ang mundong ito. At sa oras na iyon, wala nang halaga ang anumang kayamanan, kapangyarihan at katanyagan. Ang mahalaga ay kung tayo ba ay namuhay para kay Kristo, inibig Siya, at tinupad ang Kanyang mga utos. – Marino J. Dasmarinas

Reflection for May 24 Saturday of the Fifth Week of Easter: John 15:18-21

Gospel: John 15:18-21

Jesus said to his disciples: "If the world hates you, realize that it hated me first. If you belonged to the world, the world would love its own; but because you do not belong to the world, and I have chosen you out of the world, the world hates you. 

Remember the word I spoke to you, 'No slave is greater than his master.' If they persecuted me, they will also persecute you. If they kept my word, they will also keep yours. And they will do all these things to you on account of my name, because they do not know the one who sent me."

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Reflection:     

The story is told of a worldly and sinful man who, by the grace of God, experienced an unexpected spiritual awakening. It began when he opened his long-neglected Bible and was drawn to this passage: “You do not belong to the world” (John 15:19). 

Upon reading these words, something stirred within him. He began to abhor every sin he had been committing, and he turned away completely from his worldly companions—those who once influenced him to sin. Because of the radical change in his life, they mocked him and said he had lost his mind. 

Indeed, this world will hate us. Even those we once called friends may turn against us the moment we choose to follow Christ wholeheartedly. But we need not fear such rejection. As long as we walk with Jesus, we are never truly alone. As the Scriptures remind us: “If God is with us, who can be against us?” (Romans 8:31) 

Choosing not to belong to this world requires courage and conviction, for it often means letting go of temporary comforts and worldly pleasures. Yet it is a choice filled with eternal reward. For if we have God, we have everything. If we have God, we possess peace that surpasses all understanding. And if we have God, we are assured of the joy of heaven one day. – Marino J. Dasmarinas

Ang Mabuting Balita Mayo 24 Sabado sa sa Ikalimang Linggo ng Pasko ng Pagkabuhay: Juan 15:18-21

Mabuting Balita: Juan 15:18-21

Noong panahong iyon, sinabi ni Hesus sa kanyang mga alagad: "Kung napopoot sa inyo ang sanlibutan, dapat ninyong malamang napoot na ito sa akin bago sa inyo. Kung kayo nga'y sa sanlibutan, iibigin kayo nito bilang kanya. Ngunit yamang hindi kayo sa sanlibutan, kundi pinili ko kayo mula rito, ito'y napopoot sa inyo.  

Alalahanin ninyo ang sinabi ko sa inyo: walang aliping higit kaysa kanyang panginoon. Kung ako'y inusig nila, uusigin din nila kayo; kung tinupad nila ang aking salita tutuparin din nila ang salita ninyo. Ngunit ang lahat ng ito'y gagawin nila sa inyo dahil sa akin, sapagkat hindi nila nakikilala ang nagsugo sa akin."

Reflection for Friday May 23 of the Fifth Week of Easter: John 15:12-17

Gospel: John 15:12-17

Jesus said to his disciples: “This is my commandment: love one another as I love you. No one has greater love than this, to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. You are my friends if you do what I command you. I no longer call you slaves, because a slave does not know what his master is doing. 

I have called you friends, because I have told you everything I have heard from my Father. It was not you who chose me, but I who chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit that will remain, so that whatever you ask the Father in my name he may give you. This I command you: love one another.”

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Reflection:

What would happen if we follow this love commandment of Jesus? 

There would be no more betrayal, hatred, or separation among married couples—only love. But the sad reality is, we often choose to turn a deaf ear to this commandment of the Lord. Why? For the simple reason that we love ourselves more than we love Jesus and our fellowmen. 

There’s a saying that before we can give love, we must first love ourselves. After all, how can we know how to give love if we haven’t experienced loving ourselves first? However, this idea does not align with how Jesus defines love or how He gives the purest meaning of it. 

For Jesus, to love is not to love oneself first. To love is to lay down one’s life for the beloved. To love, in the way of Jesus, is to forgive the many hurts that have been hurled at us and inflicted upon us by those we hold dear. In the end, if we love as Jesus loves us, what will remain is love—no hatred, only love. 

But how do we love? Sadly, we often love selectively and with conditions. We measure the love we give by the love we receive. And many times, we fail to love others when they do not meet our selfish expectations. 

Let us love without condition, and let us love without expecting anything in return—for this is how Jesus loved us. 

How do you love? – Marino J. Dasmarinas

Ang Mabuting Balita Mayo 23 Biyernes sa Ikalimang Linggo ng Pasko ng Pagkabuhay: Juan 15:12-17

Mabuting Balita: Juan 15:12-17

Noong panahong iyon, sinabi ni Hesus sa kanyang mga alagad: "Ito ang aking utos: mag-ibigan kayo gaya ng pag-ibig ko sa inyo. Walang pag-ibig na hihigit pa sa pag-ibig ng isang taong nag-aalay ng kanyang buhay para sa kanyang mga kaibigan. Kayo'y mga kaibigan ko kung tinutupad ninyo ang mga utos ko. 

Hindi ko na kayo inaaring alipin, sapagkat hindi alam ng alipin ang ginagawa ng kanyang Panginoon. Sa halip, inaari ko kayong mga kaibigan, sapagkat sinabi ko sa inyo ang lahat ng narinig ko sa aking Ama.

Hindi kayo ang pumili sa akin; ako ang pumili at humirang sa inyo upang kayo'y humayo at mamunga, at manatili ang inyong bunga. Sa gayon, ang anumang hingin ninyo sa Ama sa aking pangalan ay ipagkakaloob sa inyo. Ito ang iniuutos ko sa inyo: mag-ibigan kayo."

Reflection for May 22 Thursday of the Fifth Week of Easter: John 15:9-11

Gospel: John 15:9-11

Jesus said to his disciples: “As the Father loves me, so I also love you. Remain in my love. If you keep my commandments, you will remain in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commandments and remain in his love. 

“I have told you this so that my joy might be in you and your joy might be complete.”

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Reflection:

What will separate us from the love of Jesus?

It is none other than sin. Every time we sin, we create a distance between ourselves and the Lord. But what about Jesus? Does He pull away from us when we sin? No—our Lord never turns away. On the contrary, He is always moving toward us, extending His arms in love, ever ready to offer us His mercy—even when we turn our backs on Him.

Such is the love of Jesus: patient, steadfast, and unfathomable. His love reaches into eternity, always ready to embrace us anew. But we must be careful not to test the depths of this divine love. Sometimes we fall into the trap of sinning repeatedly, comforted by the thought that we can return to Him anytime and ask for forgiveness through the Sacrament of Reconciliation.

But what if, in the very act of sin, we are suddenly taken from this life? What if death comes unexpectedly? Where will we find ourselves? It is saddening to realize that the answer may be separation from God for all eternity. The fiery furnace of hell is not a distant metaphor—it is a spiritual reality. That is why Jesus invites us today, while there is still time, to repent and remain in His love.

Let us not delay. Let us not presume upon His mercy. His invitation is gentle but urgent: “Remain in my love” (John 15:9). He waits for us in every moment, especially in the silence of our hearts.

Do you strive each day to remain in the love of Jesus? — Marino J. Dasmarinas

Ang Mabuting Balita Mayo 22 Huwebes sa Ikalimang Linggo ng Pasko ng Pagkabuhay: Juan 15:9-11

Mabuting Balita: Juan 15:9-11

Noong panahong iyon, sinabi ni Hesus sa kanyang mga alagad: "Kung paanong iniibig ako ng Ama, gayon din naman, iniibig ko kayo; manatili kayo sa aking pag-ibig; Kung tinutupad ninyo ang aking mga utos, mananatili kayo sa aking pag-ibig; tulad ko, tinutupad ko ang mga utos ng aking Ama at ako'y nananatili sa kanyang pag-ibig.  

"Sinasabi ko sa inyo ang mga bagay na ito upang makahati kayo sa kagalakan ko at malubos ang inyong kagalakan."

Reflection for May 21 Wednesday of the Fifth Week of Easter: John 15:1-8

Gospel: John 15:1-8

Jesus said to his disciples: “I am the true vine, and my Father is the vine grower. He takes away every branch in me that does not bear fruit, and everyone that does he prunes so that it bears more fruit. You are already pruned because of the word that I spoke to you. Remain in me, as I remain in you. 

Just as a branch cannot bear fruit on its own unless it remains on the vine, so neither can you unless you remain in me. I am the vine, you are the branches. Whoever remains in me and I in him will bear much fruit, because without me you can do nothing. 

Anyone who does not remain in me will be thrown out like a branch and wither; people will gather them and throw them into a fire and they will be burned. If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask for whatever you want and it will be done for you. By this is my Father glorified, that you bear much fruit and become my disciples.”

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Reflection:

The story is told about two neighbors. One had a bright and positive disposition in life, while the other was often gloomy and negative in almost every aspect of his life.

As we look more closely into their daily routines, we learn that the one with a joyful spirit made it a point to attend Holy Mass regularly and nurtured a deep and consistent prayer life. The other, sadly, did not believe in God.

In the Gospel, Jesus tells us, “I am the true vine, and my Father is the vine grower… Remain in me, as I remain in you. Just as a branch cannot bear fruit on its own unless it remains on the vine, so neither can you unless you remain in me” (John 15:1, 4).

These words of Jesus are a powerful reminder of the necessity of staying connected to Him. When we look at the lives of people around us, we can often see that those who live in union with God—regardless of their religious affiliation or social standing—tend to experience more peace, inner joy, and serenity. On the other hand, those who are distant from God often find themselves burdened with restlessness, confusion, and unnecessary worries.

As we journey through this temporary life, it is essential that we remain connected to our true Vine—Jesus Christ. Of course, challenges, disappointments, and even suffering may still come our way. But all of these are part of the human experience. And amidst it all, Jesus lovingly assures us of His presence, His strength, and His peace—if we intentionally choose to stay close to Him in faith and prayer.

So let us ask ourselves with sincerity: Do I make it a priority to stay connected with the Lord every day? Do I allow Him to guide my thoughts, decisions, and way of life?

May we never forget that life with Jesus, even with trials, is always more meaningful, more peaceful, and more fruitful than life without Him. – Marino J. Dasmarinas