Reflection for May 22 Friday of the Seventh Week of Easter: John 21:15-19

Gospel: John 21:15-19

After Jesus had revealed himself to his disciples and eaten breakfast with them, he said to Simon Peter, "Simon, son of John, do you love me more than these?" Simon Peter answered him, "Yes, Lord, you know that I love you." Jesus said to him, "Feed my lambs."  

He then said to Simon Peter a second time, "Simon, son of John, do you love me?" Simon Peter answered him, "Yes, Lord, you know that I love you." He said to him, "Tend my sheep." He said to him the third time, "Simon, son of John, do you love me?" Peter was distressed that he had said to him a third time, "Do you love me?" and he said to him, "Lord, you know everything; you know that I love you." 

Jesus said to him, "Feed my sheep. Amen, amen, I say to you, when you were younger, you used to dress yourself and go where you wanted; but when you grow old, you will stretch out your hands, and someone else will dress you and lead you where you do not want to go." He said this signifying by what kind of death he would glorify God. And when he had said this, he said to him, "Follow me."

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Reflection:

A young man once told a young woman, “I love you.” The woman replied, “Marry me to prove your declaration of love.” In time, they were married and lived together as husband and wife. Yet, after a few years, they separated. Why did this happen? It was because they were unable to withstand the turbulence, sacrifices, and trials of married life.

Perhaps “I love you” is one of the most commonly spoken yet most misunderstood phrases in our world today. Many of us say these words easily, without fully realizing how deep, sacred, and meaningful they truly are. This may be the reason why, when relationships are tested by pain, struggles, disappointments, and hardships, the words “I love you” can slowly change into “I don’t love you anymore,” and eventually into “I want to separate from you.”

In our Gospel today, Jesus reminds us that true love is never separated from responsibility, commitment, and sacrifice. This is why, when Jesus asked Peter three times, “Do you love me?” He also entrusted him with a mission: “Tend my sheep,” and “Feed my sheep.” Love, therefore, is not merely expressed through words or emotions; it is proven through faithfulness, service, perseverance, and self-giving.

As followers of Christ, we are invited to reflect deeply on the words we speak. How often have we said “I love you” without fully embracing the accountability and responsibility that come with genuine love? How often have we allowed love to be guided only by emotions, personal desires, or temporary feelings, rather than by commitment, sacrifice, and sincere concern for others?

True love is not measured by sweet words alone. Authentic love remains faithful even during moments of pain, misunderstanding, sacrifice, and trials. The love that Jesus teaches us is a love that serves, forgives, endures, and remains steadfast until the end. It is a love willing to carry the cross for the good of another.

Today, may we ask the Lord to purify our hearts and deepen our understanding of love. May our words always be matched by our actions, and may the love we give reflect the faithful and enduring love of Christ Himself.

When we say, “I love you,” are we truly ready to live out the sacrifices, responsibilities, and lifelong commitment that genuine love requires?—Marino J. Dasmarinas

Ang Mabuting Balita at Repleksyon Mayo 22 Biyernes sa Ikapitong Linggo ng Pasko ng Pagkabuhay: Juan 21:15-19

Mabuting Balita: Juan 21:15-19

Nang muling napakita si Hesus sa mga alagad niya at nang makakain sila, tinanong ni Jesus si Simon Pedro, "Simon, anak ni Juan, iniibig mo ba ako nang higit kaysa mga ito?" "Opo, Panginoon, nalalaman ninyong iniibig ko kayo," tugon niya. Sinabi sa kanya ni Jesus, "Pakanin mo ang aking mga batang tupa." 

Muli siyang tinanong ni Jesus, "Simon, anak ni Juan, iniibig mo ba ako?" Sumagot si Pedro, "Opo, Panginoon, nalalaman ninyong iniibig ko kayo." Ani Jesus, "Pangalagaan mo ang aking mga tupa." Pangatlong ulit na tinanong siya ni Jesus, "Simon, anak ni Juan, iniibig mo ba ako?" Nalungkot si Pedro sapagkat makaitlo siyang tinanong: "Iniibig mo ba ako?" At sumagot siya, "Panginoon, nalalaman po ninyo ang lahat ng bagay; nalalaman ninyong iniibig ko kayo." 

Sinabi sa kanya ni Jesus, "Pakanin mo ang aking mga tupa. Tandaan mo: noong kabataan mo pa, ikaw ang nagbibihis sa iyong sarili at lumalakad ka kung saan mo ibig. Ngunit pagtanda mo, iuunat mo ang iyong kamay at iba ang magbibihis sa iyo at dadalhin ka kung saan hindi mo ibig." Sinabi niya ito upang ipakilala kung papaano mamamatay si Pedro at sa gayo'y mapararangalan niya ang Diyos. Pagkatapos, sinabi sa kanya ni Jesus, "Sumunod ka sa akin!"

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Repleksyon:

May isang binata na nagsabi sa isang dalaga, “Mahal kita.” Sumagot ang dalaga, “Pakasalan mo ako upang mapatunayan mo ang iyong pag-ibig.” Kalaunan ay nagpakasal sila at nagsama bilang mag-asawa. Ngunit makalipas ang ilang taon, sila ay naghiwalay. Bakit ito nangyari? Sapagkat hindi nila kinayang harapin ang mga unos, pagsubok, at sakripisyong kaakibat ng buhay may-asawa.

Marahil, ang katagang “Mahal kita” ay isa sa mga pinakamadalas sambitin ngunit isa rin sa mga pinakamahirap nauunawaan sa ating panahon ngayon. Marami sa atin ang madaling nagsasabi nito nang hindi lubos na nauunawaan kung gaano ito kalalim, kabanal, at kahalaga.

Kaya naman kapag ang isang relasyon ay sinusubok ng sakit, problema, kabiguan, at hirap ng buhay, ang “Mahal kita” ay unti-unting napapalitan ng “Hindi na kita mahal,” at kalaunan ay nauuwi sa “Gusto na kitang hiwalayan.”

Sa ating Ebanghelyo ngayon, ipinapaalala sa atin ni Jesus na ang tunay na pag-ibig ay laging may kaakibat na pananagutan, katapatan, at sakripisyo. Kaya nga nang tanungin Niya si Pedro nang tatlong beses, “Iniibig mo ba Ako?” ay binigyan din Niya ito ng tungkulin: “Alagaan mo ang Aking mga tupa,” at “Pakanin mo ang Aking mga tupa.” Ipinapakita nito na ang pag-ibig ay hindi lamang nasusukat sa matatamis na salita o bugso ng damdamin, kundi sa paglilingkod, pagtitiis, katapatan, at pagbibigay ng sarili para sa kapakanan ng iba.

Bilang mga tagasunod ni Kristo, inaanyayahan tayong magnilay nang mas malalim tungkol sa mga salitang ating binibigkas. Ilang beses na kaya nating nasabi ang “Mahal kita” nang hindi natin lubos na tinatanggap ang pananagutan at sakripisyong kaakibat nito?

Ilang beses na rin kaya nating hinayaan na ang ating pagmamahal ay nakabatay lamang sa damdamin, pansariling kagustuhan, o pansamantalang saya, sa halip na sa tunay na pagtatalaga at malasakit?

Ang tunay na pag-ibig ay hindi lamang nananatili sa masasayang sandali. Ang tunay na pag-ibig ay marunong manatiling tapat kahit sa gitna ng sakit, hindi pagkakaunawaan, pagsubok, at paghihirap.

Ang pag-ibig na itinuturo sa atin ni Jesus ay isang pag-ibig na marunong magpatawad, magsakripisyo, maglingkod, at magtiis hanggang wakas. Ito ay pag-ibig na handang magpasan ng krus alang-alang sa minamahal.

Nawa’y hilingin natin sa Panginoon na linisin at hubugin ang ating mga puso upang matutuhan nating magmahal nang tapat at wagas. Nawa ang ating mga salita ay laging samahan ng gawa, at nawa ang ating pagmamahal ay maging salamin ng walang hanggang pag-ibig ni Hesus para sa atin.

Sa tuwing sinasabi natin ang “Mahal kita,” handa ba talaga tayong yakapin ang sakripisyo, pananagutan, at habambuhay na katapatang hinihingi ng tunay at dalisay na pag-ibig?— Marino J. Dasmarinas

Reflection for May 21 Thursday of the Seventh Week of Easter: John 17:20-26

Gospel: John 17:20-26

Lifting up his eyes to heaven, Jesus prayed saying: “I pray not only for these, but also for those who will believe in me through their word, so that they may all be one, as you, Father, are in me and I in you, that they also may be in us, that the world may believe that you sent me. 

And I have given them the glory you gave me, so that they may be one, as we are one, I in them and you in me, that they may be brought to perfection as one, that the world may know that you sent me, and that you loved them even as you loved me.  

Father, they are your gift to me. I wish that where I am they also may be with me, that they may see my glory that you gave me, because you loved me before the foundation of the world. 

Righteous Father, the world also does not know you, but I know you, and they know that you sent me. I made known to them your name and I will make it known, that the love with which you loved me may be in them and I in them.”

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Reflection:

What would happen if the love of Jesus is present in our family? There would be unity and an unbreakable bond that remains strong no matter what happens within our family. When Christ’s love dwells among us, even in our differences and struggles, we are held together by a grace that the world cannot easily break.

On the other hand, what would happen if the love of God is absent from our family? There would be disunity, human-made problems, and dysfunction that could eventually lead to the disintegration of our relationships. Without God’s love at the center, even small misunderstandings can grow into deep divisions that weaken our unity.

Jesus’ love for God and God’s love for Jesus reveal to us the kind of love that can truly bind and unite the members of our family. It is a love that is humble, faithful, and persevering. Jesus humbled Himself, though He is one with God, and He remained steadfast in fulfilling His mission of salvation—even to the point of the cross. This is the love we are invited to imitate in our own homes.

If we, as spouses, parents, and children, desire a family that endures in love, we are called to live out this same humility and perseverance. Our children need to be gently guided into an active prayer life, nurtured by us and strengthened through our wisdom-filled shepherding and loving example. In doing so, we help our families stand firm against anything that seeks to divide or weaken our bonds.

Let us pause and reflect: do we truly allow the love of Jesus and the love of God to dwell in our hearts and in our homes? Do we, in our daily struggles and choices, choose humility over pride and perseverance over giving up for the sake of our family’s unity and peace?

Are we willing to become instruments of Christ’s love so that our family may become a living witness of unity, faith, and enduring grace in a world that desperately needs it?—Marino J. Dasmarinas

Ang Mabuting Balita at Repleksyon Mayo 21 Huwebes sa Ikapitong Linggo ng Pasko ng Pagkabuhay: Juan 17:20-26

Mabuting Balita: Juan 17:20-26

Noong panahong iyon, tumingala si Hesus at nanalangin, “Amang banal, hindi lamang ang aking mga alagad idinadalangin ko, kundi pati ang mga mananalig sa akin dahil sa kanilang pahayag. Maging isa nawa silang lahat, Ama. Kung paanong ikaw ay nasa akin at ako'y nasa iyo, gayun din naman, maging isa sila sa atin upang maniwala ang sanlibutan na ikaw ang nagsugo sa akin.

Ang karangalang ibinigay mo sa akin ay ibinigay ko sa kanila upang sila'y maging ganap na isa, gaya nating iisa; ako'y nasa kanila at ikaw ay nasa akin, upang lubusan silang maging isa. At sa gayon, makikilala ng sanlibutan na sinugo mo ako, at sila'y inibig mo katulad ng pag-ibig mo sa akin."

"Ama, nais kong makasama sa aking kinaroroonan ang mga binigay mo sa akin, upang mamasdan nila ang karangalang bigay mo sa akin, sapagkat inibig mo na ako bago pa nilikha ang sanlibutan.

Makatarungang Ama, hindi ka nakikilala ng sanlibutan, ngunit nakikilala kita, at nalalaman ng mga ibinigay mo sa akin na ikaw ang nagsugo sa akin. Ipinakilala kita sa kanila, at ipakikilala pa, upang ang pag-ibig mo sa akin ay sumapuso nila at ako nama'y sumakanila."

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Repleksyon:

Ano ang mangyayari kung ang pag-ibig ni Hesus ay nananatili sa ating pamilya? Magkakaroon ng pagkakaisa at isang ugnayang hindi madaling masira, anuman ang mangyari sa loob ng ating tahanan. Kapag ang pag-ibig ni Hesus ay namamayani sa atin, kahit may mga pagsubok at pagkakaiba, tayo ay pinagbubuklod ng isang biyayang higit sa lakas ng tao.

Sa kabilang banda, ano ang mangyayari kung ang pag-ibig ng Diyos ay wala sa ating pamilya? Magkakaroon ng pagkakawatak-watak, mga problemang gawa ng tao, at mga sugat ng ugnayan na maaaring humantong sa unti-unting pagkasira ng ating pamilya. Kapag ang Diyos ay hindi sentro ng ating tahanan, kahit ang maliliit na hindi pagkakaunawaan ay maaaring lumalim at maging sanhi ng pagkakahati-hati.

Ang pag-ibig ni Hesus sa Ama at ang pag-ibig ng Ama kay Hesus ang nagpapakita sa atin ng uri ng pag-ibig na tunay na nagbubuklod at nagkakaisa sa ating pamilya. Ito ay isang pag-ibig na mapagpakumbaba, tapat, at matiyaga. Nagpakumbaba si Hesus, bagamat Siya ay kaisa ng Diyos, at nanatili Siyang tapat sa Kanyang misyon ng kaligtasan hanggang sa krus. Ito ang pag-ibig na inaanyayahan tayong tularan sa ating mga tahanan.

Kung tayo bilang mag-asawa, magulang, at mga anak ay nagnanais ng pamilyang nananatiling matatag sa pag-ibig, tinatawag tayong isabuhay ang parehong kababaang-loob at pagtitiyaga. Ang ating mga anak ay kailangan nating gabayan tungo sa isang buhay-panalangin, hubog ng ating karunungan, pagmamahal, at mabuting halimbawa. Sa ganitong paraan, ang ating pamilya ay magiging matibay laban sa anumang puwersang naglalayong maghiwalay at sumira sa ating pagkakaisa.

Tayo ay magnilay: tunay bang nananahan ang pag-ibig ni Hesus at ng Diyos sa ating mga puso at sa ating tahanan? Sa gitna ng ating pang-araw-araw na buhay, pinipili ba natin ang kababaang-loob kaysa kapalaluan, at ang pagtitiyaga kaysa pagsuko, alang-alang sa pagkakaisa at kapayapaan ng ating pamilya?

Handa ba tayong maging daluyan ng pag-ibig ni Kristo upang ang ating pamilya ay maging buhay na patotoo ng pagkakaisa, pananampalataya, at biyayang hindi kailanman kumukupas sa mundong unti-unting nawawalan ng tunay na pag-ibig at pagkakaisa?—Marino J. Dasmarinas

Reflection for May 20 Wednesday of the Seventh Week of Easter: John 17:11b-19

Gospel: John 17:11b-19

Lifting up his eyes to heaven, Jesus prayed, saying: “Holy Father, keep them in your name that you have given me, so that they may be one just as we are one. When I was with them I protected them in your name that you gave me, and I guarded them, and none of them was lost except the son of destruction in order that the Scripture might be fulfilled.  

But now I am coming to you. I speak this in the world so that they may share my joy completely. I gave them your word, and the world hated them, because they do not belong to the world any more than I belong to the world. I do not ask that you take them out of the world but that you keep them from the Evil One.  

They do not belong to the world any more than I belong to the world. Consecrate them in the truth. Your word is truth. As you sent me into the world so I sent them into the world. And I consecrate myself for them so that they also may be consecrated in truth.

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Reflection:

The story is told of a husband and wife who deeply desired to remain faithful to the Church’s teaching that marriage is for life. As they reflected on how they could preserve and strengthen their relationship through the years, they realized that prayer would be the foundation that could keep them united until their last breath.

From that moment on, they made prayer an essential part of their married life. Through joys and trials, victories and struggles, they continued to pray together, and by God’s grace, they remained faithful and united until the end.

In today’s Gospel, as Jesus was about to face suffering and arrest, He lovingly prayed to the Father for His disciples. He prayed that they might remain one in mission, heart, and spirit, because He knew that without unity, they would not succeed in fulfilling the work entrusted to them. This prayer of Jesus is not only for His disciples long ago; it is also for us today—for our families, our marriages, and our relationships.

Indeed, every family needs unity in order to survive and flourish. When we allow God to dwell at the center of our homes, beautiful fruits begin to grow within us: humility instead of pride, honesty instead of deception, forgiveness instead of resentment, patience instead of anger, and love instead of selfishness. These virtues strengthen the bond that keeps our families together even during life’s storms.

A family that grows spiritually is a family that prays together. Prayer is not merely a routine or obligation; it is our lifeline to God. It heals wounded hearts, softens hardened spirits, restores broken relationships, and reminds us that we are never alone in our struggles. When we pray together, we invite the Lord to become the center of our homes, our decisions, our dreams, and our future.

Let us, therefore, never underestimate the transforming power of prayer within our families and marriages. The world may offer many temporary solutions to brokenness and division, but only God can truly unite hearts in lasting love and peace. A family that prays together remains strong together because Christ Himself dwells in their midst.

Is prayer truly alive in our homes, our marriages, and our daily lives? Or have we allowed busyness, distractions, and worldly concerns to slowly take God away from the center of our family life? If Jesus were to enter our homes today, would He find us united in prayer, love, forgiveness, and faith?— Marino J. Dasmarinas

Ang Mabuting Balita at Repleksyon Mayo 20 Miyerkules sa Ikapitong Linggo ng Pasko ng Pagkabuhay: Juan 17:11b-19

Mabuting Balita: Juan 17:11b-19

Noong panahong iyo, si Hesus ay tumingala sa langit, nanalangin at ang wika: Amang banal, ingatan mo sila sa pamamagitan ng kapangyarihan ng iyong pangalan, pangalang ibinigay mo sa akin, upang sila'y maging isa, kung paanong tayo'y iisa. Habang kasama nila ako, iningatan ko sila sa pamamagitan ng kapangyarihan ng iyong pangalang ibinigay mo sa akin.

Inalagaan ko sila at ni isa'y walang napahamak, liban sa taong humanap ng kanyang kapahamakan, upang matupad ang Kasulatan. Ngunit ngayon, ako'y papunta na sa iyo; at sinasabi ko ito habang ako'y nasa sanlibutan upang mapuspos sila ng aking kagalakan. Naibigay ko na sa kanila ang iyong salita; at kinapootan sila ng sanlibutan, sapagkat hindi na sila makasanlibutan, tulad kong hindi makasanlibutan.

Hindi ko idinadalanging alisin mo sila sa sanlibutan, kundi iligtas mo sila sa Masama! Hindi sila makasanlibutan, tulad kong hindi makasanlibutan. Italaga mo sila sa pamamagitan ng katotohanan; ang salita mo'y katotohanan. Kung paanong sinugo mo ako sa sanlibutan, gayon din naman, sinusugo ko sila sa sanlibutan. At alang-alang sa kanila'y itinalaga ko ang aking sarili, upang maitalaga rin sila sa pamamagitan ng katotohanan."

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Repleksyon:

May isang kuwento tungkol sa mag-asawang taimtim na nagnanais manatiling tapat sa turo ng Simbahan na ang kasal ay panghabambuhay. Habang sila’y nagmumuni-muni kung paano nila mapagtitibay at mapapanatili ang kanilang pagsasama sa paglipas ng panahon, napagtanto nilang ang panalangin ang magiging matibay na pundasyon na magbubuklod sa kanila hanggang sa kanilang huling hininga.

Kaya naman ginawa nilang mahalagang bahagi ng kanilang buhay-mag-asawa ang pananalangin. Sa gitna ng kagalakan at pagsubok, tagumpay at paghihirap, patuloy silang kumapit sa Diyos sa pamamagitan ng panalangin, at sa biyaya ng Panginoon ay nanatili silang nagkakaisa at tapat hanggang sa wakas ng kanilang buhay.

Sa Ebanghelyo ngayon, bago harapin ni Jesus ang Kanyang paghihirap at pagdakip, buong pagmamahal Siyang nanalangin sa Ama para sa Kanyang mga alagad. Ipinanalangin Niya na manatili silang nagkakaisa sa puso, diwa, at misyon, sapagkat alam Niyang hindi sila magtatagumpay kung walang pagkakaisa. Ang panalanging ito ni Jesus ay hindi lamang para sa Kanyang mga alagad noon kundi para rin sa atin ngayon—para sa ating mga pamilya, at mga relasyon.

Tunay nga na ang bawat pamilya ay nangangailangan ng pagkakaisa upang manatiling matatag at matagumpay. Kapag hinayaan nating manahan ang Diyos sa ating tahanan, namumunga ito ng kababaang-loob sa halip na pagmamataas, katapatan sa halip na panlilinlang, pagpapatawad sa halip na sama ng loob, pagtitiis sa halip na galit, at pag-ibig sa halip na pagkamakasarili. Ang mga biyayang ito ang nagpapatibay sa buklod ng ating pamilya sa gitna ng mga unos ng buhay.

Ang pamilyang lumalago sa espirituwal na buhay ay pamilyang marunong manalangin nang sama-sama. Ang panalangin ay hindi lamang simpleng gawain o obligasyon; ito ang ating ugnayan at sandigan sa Diyos.

Pinagagaling nito ang sugatang puso, pinalalambot ang matitigas na damdamin, inaayos ang nasisirang relasyon, at nagpapaalala sa atin na hindi tayo nag-iisa sa ating mga laban sa buhay. Kapag tayo’y sama-samang nananalangin, inaanyayahan nating ang Panginoon ang maging sentro ng ating tahanan, mga pagpapasya, mga pangarap, at kinabukasan.

Kaya naman, huwag nating maliitin ang makapangyarihang himala ng panalangin sa loob ng ating pamilya at pagsasama. Maaaring maraming ialok ang mundo na pansamantalang solusyon sa pagkakawatak-watak at problema, ngunit tanging Diyos lamang ang tunay na makapagbubuklod ng ating mga puso sa wagas at pangmatagalang pagmamahalan at kapayapaan. Ang pamilyang sama-samang nananalangin ay nananatiling matatag sapagkat si Kristo mismo ang nasa gitna nila.

Buhay pa ba ang panalangin sa ating pamilya, at pagsasama? O unti-unti na ba nating hinayaang maagaw ng abala, problema, at makamundong bagay ang puwang ng Diyos sa ating buhay-pamilya?

Kapag dumalaw si Jesus sa ating tahanan ngayon, matatagpuan kaya Niya tayong nagkakaisa sa panalangin, pag-ibig, pagpapatawad, at pananampalataya? O baka naman matagal na Siyang naghihintay na muli natin Siyang anyayahang maging sentro ng ating pamilya?— Marino J. Dasmarinas

Reflection for May 19 Tuesday of the Seventh Week of Easter: John 17:1-11a

Gospel: John 17:1-11a

Jesus raised his eyes to heaven and said, “Father, the hour has come. Give glory to your son, so that your son may glorify you, just as you gave him authority over all people, so that your son may give eternal life to all you gave him. Now this is eternal life, that they should know you, the only true God, and the one whom you sent, Jesus Christ. 

I glorified you on earth by accomplishing the work that you gave me to do. Now glorify me, Father, with you, with the glory that I had with you before the world began. “I revealed your name to those whom you gave me out of the world.

They belonged to you, and you gave them to me, and they have kept your word. Now they know that everything you gave me is from you, because the words you gave to me I have given to them, and they accepted them and truly understood that I came from you, and they have believed that you sent me. 

I pray for them. I do not pray for the world but for the ones you have given me, because they are yours, and everything of mine is yours and everything of yours is mine, and I have been glorified in them. And now I will no longer be in the world, but they are in the world, while I am coming to you.”

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Reflection:

There is a story about a man who worked tirelessly to amass wealth. Day and night, he poured all his strength, time, and energy into becoming rich. Yet, despite all his efforts, he noticed that whatever riches he gained seemed to slip away from his hands just as quickly as they came.

It became a painful and exhausting cycle for him. He worked hard, sacrificed much, and chased after the treasures of this world, yet in the end, he was left empty. Why did this happen? It was because his heart had become focused only on worldly gain. Little by little, he was being consumed by the materialistic and self-centered spirit of the world.

Many of us can fall into the same trap without even realizing it. We work hard to secure comfort, success, recognition, and possessions, believing that these things will finally satisfy the longing within our hearts. But the more we cling to worldly things, the more we discover that they can never truly fill the emptiness of our souls. Everything in this world is temporary and passing away. Wealth fades, achievements are forgotten, and earthly pleasures do not last forever.

Jesus Himself lived in this world, yet He never allowed the world to rule His heart. He came not to seek earthly power, fame, or riches, but to fulfill the will of the Father. Out of His great love for us, He willingly offered His very own life so that we might receive eternal life and true peace. Jesus understood that nothing in this world could compare to the eternal joy of obeying God and accomplishing His mission of salvation.

As followers of Christ, we are called to examine the true condition of our hearts. Are we living only for worldly success, or are we living for God’s eternal purpose? Are we building treasures on earth that will one day disappear, or are we storing up treasures in heaven through faith, love, obedience, and compassion?

May we ask the Lord to purify our hearts from excessive attachment to worldly things and teach us to desire Him above all else. For only God can satisfy the deepest hunger of our souls, and only His love can give us lasting joy and peace.

When people look at the way we live, will they see hearts consumed by the world, or hearts completely surrendered to God?— Marino J. Dasmarinas

Ang Mabuting Balita at Repleksyon Mayo 19 Martes sa Ikapitong Linggo ng Pasko ng Pagkabuhay: Juan 17:1-11a

Mabuting Balita: Juan 17:1-11a

Noong panahong iyon, tumingala si Hesus sa langit at ang wika, "Ama, dumating na ang oras: parangalan mo ang iyong Anak upang maparangalan ka naman niya. Sapagkat pinagkalooban mo siya ng kapangyarihan sa sangkatauhan, upang magbigay ng buhay na walang hanggan sa lahat ng ibinigay mo sa kanya. 

Ito ang buhay na walang hanggan: ang kilalanin ka nila, ang iisa at tunay na Diyos, at si Jesu-Cristo na iyong sinugo. Inihayag ko rito sa lupa ang iyong karangalan; natapos ko ang ipinagagawa mo sa akin. Kaya, Ama, ipagkaloob mo sa akin ngayon ang karangalang taglay ko sa piling mo bago pa likhain ang sanlibutan." 

"Ipinakilala kita sa mga taong ibinigay mo sa akin mula sa sanlibutan. Sila'y iyo; ibinigay mo sila sa akin, at tinupad nila ang iyong salita. Ngayo'y alam na nilang mula sa iyo ang lahat ng ibinigay mo sa akin; sapagkat itinuro ko sa kanila ang lahat ng aking nabatid sa iyo at tinanggap naman nila. Natitiyak nilang ako'y galing sa iyo, at naniniwala silang ikaw nga ang nagsugo sa akin." 

"Idinadalangin ko sila, hindi ang sanlibutan kundi ang lahat ng ibinigay mo sa akin, sapagkat sila'y iyo.

Ang lahat ng akin ay iyo, at ang lahat ng iyo ay akin; at pararangalan ako sa pamamagitan nila. At ngayon, ako'y papunta na sa iyo; aalis na ako sa sanlibutan, ngunit nasa sanlibutan pa sila."

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Repleksyon:

May isang kuwento tungkol sa isang lalaking nagsumikap nang husto upang magkamal ng kayamanan. Araw at gabi ay ibinuhos niya ang kaniyang lakas, panahon, at kakayahan upang yumaman. Ngunit sa kabila ng lahat ng kaniyang paghihirap, napansin niya na ang anumang kayamanang kaniyang kinikita ay tila agad ding nawawala sa kaniyang mga kamay.

Naging isang masakit at nakakapagod na siklo ito para sa kaniya. Nagsikap siya, nagsakripisyo, at humabol sa mga kayamanan ng mundong ito, ngunit sa bandang huli ay nanatili pa rin siyang hungkag at walang tunay na kapayapaan. Bakit ito nangyari? Sapagkat ang kaniyang puso ay unti-unting nakatuon lamang sa mga bagay na makamundo. Dahil dito, dahan-dahan siyang nilamon ng makasarili at materyalistikong dikta ng sanlibutan.

Marami rin sa atin ang maaaring mahulog sa ganitong kalagayan nang hindi natin namamalayan. Nagsisikap tayo upang magkaroon ng maginhawang buhay, tagumpay, pagkilala, at maraming ari-arian, sa pag-aakalang ang mga ito ang pupuno sa pananabik ng ating mga puso.

Ngunit habang lalo tayong kumakapit sa mga bagay ng mundong ito, lalo rin nating natutuklasan na hindi pala nito kayang punuin ang kahungkagan ng ating kaluluwa. Ang lahat ng bagay sa mundong ito ay pansamantala lamang. Ang kayamanan ay nawawala, ang tagumpay ay lumilipas, at ang kaligayahang dulot ng makamundong bagay ay hindi nagtatagal.

Si Jesus man ay namuhay sa mundong ito, ngunit hindi Niya hinayaang ang mundo ang maghari sa Kaniyang puso. Hindi Siya naparito upang maghanap ng kapangyarihan, kasikatan, o kayamanan sa lupa, kundi upang tuparin ang kalooban ng Ama.

Dahil sa Kaniyang dakilang pag-ibig para sa atin, inialay Niya ang Kaniyang sariling buhay upang tayo ay magkaroon ng buhay na walang hanggan at tunay na kapayapaan. Alam ni Jesus na walang anumang bagay sa mundong ito ang maihahambing sa kagalakang dulot ng pagsunod sa Diyos at pagtupad sa Kaniyang misyon ng kaligtasan.

Bilang mga tagasunod ni Cristo, tinatawagan tayong suriin ang tunay na kalagayan ng ating mga puso. Nabubuhay ba tayo para lamang sa makamundong tagumpay, o nabubuhay tayo para sa walang hanggang layunin ng Diyos? Nag-iipon ba tayo ng kayamanan sa lupa na mawawala rin balang araw, o nagtitipon tayo ng kayamanan sa langit sa pamamagitan ng pananampalataya, pag-ibig, pagsunod, at malasakit sa kapwa?

Nawa’y hilingin natin sa Panginoon na linisin Niya ang ating mga puso mula sa labis na pagkakapit sa mga bagay ng mundong ito at turuan tayong ibigin Siya nang higit sa lahat. Sapagkat ang Diyos lamang ang tunay na makapupuno sa pinakamalalim na pananabik ng ating kaluluwa, at ang Kaniyang pag-ibig lamang ang makapagbibigay sa atin ng walang hanggang kagalakan at kapayapaan.

Kapag dumating ang araw na tayo ay humarap sa Panginoon, ano kaya ang makikita Niya sa ating puso — isang pusong alipin ng mundo, o isang pusong buong-buong nagmahal at sumunod sa Kaniya?— Marino J. Dasmarinas

Reflection for May 18 Monday of the Seventh Week of Easter: John 16:29-33

Gospel: John 16:29-33

The disciples said to Jesus, “Now you are talking plainly, and not in any figure of speech. Now we realize that you know everything and that you do not need to have anyone question you. Because of this we believe that you came from God. 

Jesus answered them, “Do you believe now? Behold, the hour is coming and has arrived when each of you will be scattered to his own home and you will leave me alone. But I am not alone, because the Father is with me.

I have told you this so that you might have peace in me. In the world you will have trouble, but take courage, I have conquered the world.”

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Reflection:

The story is told about a man who devoted his life to pursuing worldly riches and greatness in his chosen field of endeavor. Through determination and hard work, he achieved many of his dreams and ambitions. He believed that these accomplishments would become the crowning glory of his life.

Yet, instead of finding fulfillment, he continued longing for more wealth, more success, and more recognition. Little by little, his desire for worldly things robbed him of peace and contentment, until he eventually became a slave to the things of this world.

In the Gospel for this Monday, Jesus lovingly reminds us: “You will have peace in Me. In this world you will have trouble” (John 16:33). How true these words are in our daily lives. Many of us spend so much of our time and energy chasing temporary riches, power, and worldly approval, believing that these things will finally make us happy and secure.

Yet the more we cling to them, the more restless and burdened our hearts become. Oftentimes, it is only when sickness comes, when trials overwhelm us, or when we face the reality of death that we realize that worldly treasures can never truly satisfy the deepest longings of our souls.

Jesus alone offers us the peace that our hearts truly desire — a peace that no person can give and no amount of money can buy. It is a peace that remains even in the midst of pain, uncertainty, and the many worries of this world. It is a peace that strengthens us during our darkest moments and gives us hope beyond this earthly life.

When we allow the peace of Jesus to dwell within our hearts, we begin to experience true freedom. We are no longer controlled by worldly possessions, human recognition, or the opinions of others because our hearts already rest securely in Him.

Let us therefore open our hearts completely to the peace that Jesus is offering us today. Let us learn to trust Him more than the temporary attractions of this world.

As we continue our journey of faith, may we constantly ask ourselves: Are we still allowing worldly desires to rule our hearts, or are we willing to surrender everything to Jesus so that His peace may truly reign within us?— Marino J. Dasmarinas

Ang Mabuting Balita at Repleksyon Mayo 18 Lunes sa Ikapitong Linggo ng Pasko ng Pagkabuhay: Juan 16:29-33

Mabuting Balita: Juan 16:29-33

Noong panahong iyon sinabi ng kanyang mga alagad kay Hesus, "Ngayon po'y tuwiran na ang inyong pangungusap sa amin at hindi na patalinghaga! Alam na naming batid ninyo ang lahat ng bagay, at hindi na kailangang tanungin ninuman.

Dahil dito, naniwala kaming kayo'y mula sa Diyos." Sumagot si Jesus, "Naniniwala na ba kayo ngayon? Darating ang oras -- at ngayon na nga -- na magkakawatak-watak kayo, magkakanya-kanyang lakad kayo, at iiwan ninyo ako.

Gayunma'y hindi ako nag-iisa sapagkat kasama ko ang Ama. Sinasabi ko ito sa inyo upang kayo'y magkaroon ng kapayapaan sa pakikipag-isa sa akin. Mayroon kayong kapighatian dito sa sanlibutan; ngunit lakasan ninyo ang inyong loob! Napagtagumpayan ko na ang sanlibutan!

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Repleksyon:

May isang kuwento tungkol sa isang tao na inialay ang kanyang buhay sa paghahangad ng kayamanan at kadakilaan sa mundong ito. Sa pamamagitan ng kanyang pagsisikap at sipag, natupad niya ang marami niyang mga pangarap at ambisyon.

Inakala niya na ito na ang magiging pinakadakilang tagumpay ng kanyang buhay. Ngunit sa halip na makaramdam ng tunay na kasiyahan, lalo pa siyang naghangad ng mas maraming kayamanan, tagumpay, at pagkilala. Unti-unti, ang kanyang labis na pagkaalipin sa mga bagay ng mundong ito ang siyang nag-alis ng kanyang kapayapaan at kasiyahan hanggang sa siya ay naging alipin na ng makamundong pamumuhay.

Sa Ebanghelyo ngayong Lunes, buong pagmamahal na pinaaalalahanan tayo ni Jesus: “Magkakaroon kayo ng kapayapaan sa Akin. Sa mundong ito ay makararanas kayo ng kapighatian” (Juan 16:33). Tunay ngang makapangyarihan ang mga salitang ito sa ating pang-araw-araw na buhay.

Marami sa atin ang abalang-abala sa paghahabol ng pansamantalang kayamanan, kapangyarihan, at papuri ng tao, sa pag-aakalang dito natin matatagpuan ang tunay na kaligayahan at kapanatagan. Ngunit habang lalo nating kinakapitan ang mga bagay ng mundong ito, lalo namang nabibigatan at nagiging balisa ang ating mga puso.

Kadalasan, kapag tayo ay nagkasakit, nasadlak sa matinding pagsubok, o humarap sa realidad ng kamatayan, saka lamang natin napagtatanto na ang mga kayamanan ng mundong ito ay hindi kailanman makapagbibigay ng tunay at pangmatagalang kasiyahan sa ating mga kaluluwa.

Si Jesus lamang ang makapagbibigay sa atin ng kapayapaang tunay na hinahanap ng ating mga puso — kapayapaang hindi kayang ibigay ninuman at hindi mabibili ng anumang kayamanan. Ito ang kapayapaang nananatili kahit tayo ay nasa gitna ng pagdurusa, pag-aalala, at kawalang-katiyakan sa buhay. 

Ito ang kapayapaang nagbibigay sa atin ng lakas sa oras ng kadiliman at pag-asa na higit pa sa mundong ito. Kapag hinayaan nating manahan ang kapayapaan ni Jesus sa ating mga puso, unti-unti tayong napapalaya mula sa pagkaalipin sa makamundong bagay, sa paghahangad ng pagkilala ng tao, at sa labis na pag-aalala sa sasabihin ng iba. Sapagkat kapag si Jesus na ang sentro ng ating buhay, nagkakaroon tayo ng tunay na kapanatagan at kagalakan.

Kaya’t buksan natin nang buong puso ang ating sarili sa kapayapaang iniaalok sa atin ni Jesus. Matuto tayong magtiwala sa Kanya higit kaysa sa mga pansamantalang bagay ng mundong ito.

Habang tayo ay nagpapatuloy sa ating paglalakbay ng pananampalataya, itanong natin sa ating sarili: Patuloy pa ba nating hinahayaang mamuno sa ating mga puso ang makamundong pagnanasa, o handa na ba tayong isuko ang lahat kay Jesus upang ang Kanyang kapayapaan ang tunay na maghari sa ating buhay?— Marino J. Dasmarinas

Reflection for Sunday May 17 Solemnity of the Ascension of the Lord: Matthew 28:16-20

Gospel: Matthew 28:16-20

The eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain to which Jesus had ordered them. When they saw him, they worshiped, but they doubted. Then Jesus approached and said to them, "All power in heaven and on earth has been given to me.

Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, until the end of the age."

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Reflection:

Have we ever been entrusted with a responsibility by our parents, our boss, our parish priest, or by someone we deeply respect? How did we respond to that responsibility? Did we accept it wholeheartedly and faithfully carry it out, even when it was difficult or inconvenient?

In today’s Gospel, before Jesus ascended into heaven, He entrusted His disciples with a sacred mission, saying: “Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you” (Matthew 28:19–20).

Through the apostolic succession of the Church, this divine commissioning continues even today. Jesus speaks not only to ordained ministers but also to all of us who believe in Him. In our own way and according to our own calling, the Lord sends us forth to proclaim His love, His mercy, and His saving presence to the world. It is as if Jesus is gently reminding us: “Share the Good News about Me, and do not be afraid, for I am always with you.”

What powerful and comforting words from our Lord! Yet amid the busyness and distractions of life, have we truly listened to His call? Have we allowed His Word to dwell in our hearts so deeply that we are moved to share Him with others? Have we become living witnesses of His compassion, forgiveness, and love?

Today, as we celebrate the glorious feast of the Ascension of Jesus into heaven, we may wonder: Has Jesus left us alone? Has He abandoned us to face life’s uncertainties by ourselves? Certainly not. The Ascension is not a story of Jesus leaving us behind; rather, it is a beautiful reminder that He remains with us in a deeper and more powerful way.

Jesus continues to walk with us through the Holy Spirit. He strengthens us through the Holy Mass, nourishes us through the Sacraments, and guides us through His living Word. In moments of weakness, fear, and uncertainty, the Lord never ceases to remind us that His presence remains constant and faithful.

It is easy for us to say that we love Jesus and desire to share Him with others. But the greater challenge is this: Are we truly living what we proclaim? Do our words, actions, attitudes, and choices reflect the presence of Christ within us? Sharing Jesus with the world requires courage, humility, patience, and a heart filled with faith.

Still, we need not be afraid, for Jesus Himself assures us: “And behold, I am with you always, until the end of the age” (Matthew 28:20).

As we continue our journey of faith, may we not keep Jesus only within the comfort of our hearts, but may we courageously bring Him to others through our kindness, compassion, forgiveness, and love.

Today, the Lord once again entrusts us with His mission. The question is: Will we remain silent spectators of our faith, or will we courageously become living witnesses who bring the presence of Jesus to a world longing for hope, peace, and salvation?– Marino J. Dasmarinas

Ang Mabuting Balita at Repleksyon Linggo Mayo 17 Dakilang Kapistahan ng Pag-akyat ng Panginoon: Mateo 28:16-28

Mabuting Balita Mateo 28:16-20

Noong panahong iyon: Ang Labing-isang alagad ay nagpunta sa Galilea, sa bundok na itinuro sa kanila ni Hesus. Nang makita nila si Hesus, siya’y sinamba nila, bagamat may ilang nag-alinlangan. Lumapit si Hesus at sinabi sa kanila, “Ibinigay na sa akin ang lahat ng kapangyarihan sa langit at sa Lupa.

Kaya, humayo kayo at gawin ninyong alagad ko ang lahat ng bansa. Binyagan ninyo sila sa ngalan ng Ama at ng Anak at ng Espiritu Santo, at turuang sumunod sa lahat ng ipinag-utos ko sa inyo. Tandaan ninyo: ako’y laging kasama ninyo hanggang sa katapusan ng sanlibutan.”

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Repleksyon:

Naranasan na ba nating mabigyan ng isang mahalagang pananagutan ng ating mga magulang, boss, kura paroko, o ng isang taong lubos nating iginagalang? Paano tayo tumugon sa responsibilidad na iyon? Tinanggap ba natin ito nang buong puso at tinupad nang may katapatan kahit mahirap at may mga pagsubok?

Sa Ebanghelyo natin ngayon, bago umakyat si Jesus sa langit, ipinagkatiwala Niya sa Kanyang mga alagad ang isang banal na misyon: “Humayo kayo at gawin ninyong alagad ang lahat ng bansa. Binyagan ninyo sila sa ngalan ng Ama, at ng Anak, at ng Espiritu Santo, at turuan silang sumunod sa lahat ng iniutos ko sa inyo” (Mateo 28:19–20).

Sa pamamagitan ng apostolikong pagpapatuloy ng Simbahan, ang misyong ito ay patuloy pa ring ipinagkakatiwala ni Hesus hanggang ngayon. Hindi lamang ito para sa mga pari kundi para rin sa ating lahat na nananampalataya sa Kanya.

Sa iba’t ibang paraan at ayon sa ating bokasyon sa buhay, isinusugo rin tayo ng Panginoon upang ipahayag ang Kanyang pag-ibig, awa, at pagliligtas sa sanlibutan. Para bang marahan Niya tayong pinapaalalahanan: “Ibahagi ninyo Ako sa iba at huwag kayong matakot sapagkat lagi Akong sumasainyo.”

Napakalalim at napakapangyarihan ng mga salitang ito mula sa ating Panginoon. Ngunit sa gitna ng ingay, abala, at maraming alalahanin sa buhay, tunay nga ba nating pinakikinggan ang Kanyang tawag?

Hinahayaan ba nating manatiling buhay ang Kanyang Salita sa ating puso upang maibahagi rin natin Siya sa iba? Nakikita ba ng mga tao kay Jesus sa ating mga salita, kilos, at paraan ng pamumuhay?

Ngayon ay ipinagdiriwang natin ang Dakilang Kapistahan ng Pag-akyat ni Jesus sa Langit. Ano nga ba ang kahulugan nito para sa atin? Iniwan na ba tayo ni Jesus? Pinabayaan na ba Niya tayong harapin nang mag-isa ang mga pagsubok at kawalan ng katiyakan sa buhay? Hindi. Ang Pag-akyat ni Jesus sa Langit ay hindi tanda ng Kanyang paglayo, kundi paalala na mananatili Siyang kasama natin sa mas malalim at makapangyarihang paraan.

Patuloy Niya tayong sinasamahan sa pamamagitan ng Espiritu Santo. Pinapalakas Niya tayo sa Banal na Misa, ginagabayan sa pamamagitan ng mga Sakramento, at kinakausap sa pamamagitan ng Kanyang buhay na Salita. Sa ating mga panghihina, takot, at pag-aalinlangan, hindi tayo iniiwan ng Panginoon kailanman.

Madali para sa ating sabihin na mahal natin si Jesus at nais natin Siyang ibahagi sa iba. Ngunit ang tunay na hamon ay ito: Isinasabuhay ba natin ang ating pananampalataya? Nakikita ba sa ating pagkatao ang presensya ni Kristo? Ang pagbabahagi kay Jesus ay nangangailangan ng tapang, kababaang-loob, pagtitiis, at pusong puno ng pananampalataya.

Ngunit hindi tayo dapat matakot sapagkat tiniyak mismo ni Jesus sa atin: “At tandaan ninyo, ako’y kasama ninyo araw-araw hanggang sa katapusan ng sanlibutan” (Mateo 28:20).

Habang nagpapatuloy tayo sa paglalakbay ng ating pananampalataya, nawa’y huwag nating sarilinin si Jesus sa loob lamang ng ating puso. Nawa’y maging daluyan tayo ng Kanyang pagmamahal, awa, kapatawaran, at pag-asa sa mga taong ating nakakasalamuha araw-araw.

Sa  linggong ito, muling ipinagkakatiwala sa atin ng Panginoon ang Kanyang misyon. Ang tanong ay ito: Mananatili na lamang ba tayong tahimik na tagapanood ng ating pananampalataya, o magiging matapang ba tayong saksi ni Kristo upang maipadama natin ang Kanyang presensya sa mundong sugatan, nawawalan ng pag-asa, at naghahangad ng tunay na kaligtasan?– Marino J. Dasmarinas

Reflection for May 16 Saturday of the Sixth Week of Easter: John 16:23b-28

Gospel: John 16:23b-28

Jesus said to his disciples: “Amen, amen, I say to you, whatever you ask the Father in my name he will give you. Until now you have not asked anything in my name; ask and you will receive, so that your joy may be complete.  

“I have told you this in figures of speech. The hour is coming when I will no longer speak to you in figures but I will tell you clearly about the Father. On that day you will ask in my name, and I do not tell you that I will ask the Father for you. 

For the Father himself loves you, because you have loved me and have come to believe that I came from God. I came from the Father and have come into the world. Now I am leaving the world and going back to the Father.”

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Reflection:

The story is told of a woman who prayed earnestly to Jesus, asking Him to make her rich. Day after day, and month after month, she continued praying for the blessing she longed to receive. Yet after three months of praying and asking, she still did not receive what she had been hoping for. Confused and deeply troubled, she wondered why the Lord seemed silent to her prayers.

One night, she had a dream in which Jesus gently spoke to her heart: “You did not receive what you prayed for because you simply stayed in your house and relaxed. You never exerted effort to achieve what you desired.”

When she woke up the next morning, something within her changed. She prayed once again, but this time she did not stop with words alone. She began to work diligently, persevere faithfully, and do her part with trust in God. In time, through prayer, hard work, patience, and God’s grace, she finally received what she had been asking from the Lord.

Many times in our lives, we also desire blessings, breakthroughs, and answers to our prayers. We ask Jesus to help us, guide us, heal us, provide for us, or change our situation. Prayer is indeed powerful, beautiful, and necessary, because it connects our hearts to God. But the Lord also calls us to cooperate with His grace through faith-filled action.

Our prayers must not remain as words spoken only by our lips. We must allow our prayers to move our hands, strengthen our resolve, and inspire us to act with perseverance, responsibility, and trust in God. When we pray for success, we must also work hard. When we pray for healing in relationships, we must also learn to forgive, understand, and love. When we pray for a better life, we must also courageously take the steps that God places before us.

Jesus generously helps us fulfill the good things we hope for, especially when we sincerely do our part and entrust the results to Him. God blesses not only those who pray, but also those who faithfully act with courage, patience, and determination. Indeed, our lives must always be marked by prayers with action, and not by prayers alone.

Are we merely praying for God’s blessings, or are we also willing to cooperate with His grace by doing our part with faith, perseverance, and hard work?— Marino J. Dasmarinas

Ang Mabuting Balita at Repleksyon Mayo 16 Sabado sa Ikaanim na Linggo ng Pasko ng Pagkabuhay: Juan 16:23b-28

Mabuting Balita: Juan 16:23b-28

Noong panahong iyon, sinabi ni Hesus sa kanyang mga alagad: "Tandaan ninyo: anumang hingin ninyo sa Ama sa aking pangalan ay ibibigay niya sa inyo. Hanggang ngayo'y wala pa kayong hinihingi sa kanya sa pangalan ko; humingi kayo at kayo'y tatanggap, upang malubos ang inyong kagalakan."

"Ang mga ito'y sinabi ko sa inyo ng patalinghaga. Subalit darating ang panahon na hindi na ako magsasalita sa inyo ng gayon; tuwiran ko nang sasabihin sa inyo ang tungkol sa Ama. Sa araw na yao'y hihingi kayo sa kanya sa aking pangalan; at hindi ko sinasabi sa inyo na dadalangin ako sa Ama para sa inyo, sapagkat iniibig nga kayo ng Ama.

Iniibig niya kayo sapagkat ako'y iniibig ninyo at naniniwala kayong ako'y nagmula sa Diyos. Ako'y mula sa Ama at naparito sa sanlibutan; ngayo'y aalis ako sa sanlibutan at babalik sa Ama."

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Repleksyon:

May isang kuwento tungkol sa isang babae na taimtim na nanalangin kay Jesus na siya ay yumaman. Araw-araw at buwan-buwan ay patuloy siyang nananalangin at humihingi ng biyayang kanyang minimithi.

Ngunit matapos ang tatlong buwan ng pagdarasal at pagsusumamo, hindi pa rin niya natanggap ang kanyang hinihiling. Dahil dito, siya ay nalito at labis na nagtaka kung bakit tila nananatiling tahimik ang Panginoon sa kanyang mga panalangin.

Isang gabi, nanaginip siya at doon ay mahinahong nagsalita si Jesus sa kanyang puso: “Hindi mo natanggap ang iyong ipinagdarasal dahil nanatili ka lamang sa iyong bahay at nagpahinga. Hindi ka nagsikap upang makamit ang iyong ninanais.”

Pagkagising niya kinabukasan, may nabago sa kanyang kalooban. Muli siyang nanalangin, ngunit sa pagkakataong iyon ay hindi na lamang salita ang kanyang inialay sa Diyos. Siya ay nagsimulang magsikap, magtiyaga, at gawin ang kanyang bahagi nang may pagtitiwala sa Panginoon. Sa pagdaan ng panahon, sa pamamagitan ng panalangin, pagtitiyaga, pagsisikap, at biyaya ng Diyos, natanggap din niya ang kanyang hinihiling.

Maraming pagkakataon din sa ating buhay na tayo ay may mga pangarap, kahilingan, at panalangin sa Diyos. Humihingi tayo kay Jesus ng gabay, tulong, kagalingan, kabuhayan, at pagbabago sa ating buhay. Tunay ngang makapangyarihan, mahalaga, at napakaganda ng panalangin sapagkat inilalapit tayo nito sa puso ng Diyos. Ngunit nais din ng Panginoon na tayo ay makiisa sa Kanyang biyaya sa pamamagitan ng pananampalatayang may kasamang pagkilos.

Hindi dapat nagtatapos sa ating mga labi lamang ang ating mga panalangin. Dapat nating hayaang kumilos ang ating mga kamay, tumatag ang ating kalooban, at lumalim ang ating pananampalataya upang maisabuhay natin ang ating ipinagdarasal. Kapag tayo ay nananalangin para sa tagumpay, kailangan din nating magsikap.

Kapag tayo ay humihingi ng kagalingan sa ating relasyon, kailangan din nating matutong magpatawad, umunawa, at magmahal. Kapag tayo ay nananalangin para sa mas mabuting buhay, kailangan din nating lakasan ang ating loob upang tahakin ang landas na inilalagay ng Diyos sa ating harapan.

Masaganang tumutulong si Jesus upang matupad ang mabubuting bagay na ating inaasam, lalo na kapag tayo ay tapat na gumagawa ng ating bahagi at buong pusong nagtitiwala sa Kanya. Pinagpapala ng Diyos hindi lamang ang mga taong nananalangin kundi pati ang mga taong kumikilos nang may pananampalataya, pagtitiyaga, at determinasyon. Tunay nga na ang ating buhay ay dapat laging may kasamang panalangin at pagkilos, at hindi panalangin lamang.

Tayo ba ay nananalangin lamang para sa mga biyaya ng Diyos, o handa rin ba tayong kumilos, magsikap, at makiisa sa Kanyang biyaya upang maisakatuparan ang ating mga panalangin?— Marino J. Dasmarinas

Reflection for May 15 Friday 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:

A good man was wondering why he was experiencing many difficulties in life. He was deeply in debt, and his house had been repossessed by the bank because of unpaid loans. In his pain and frustration, he began questioning the Lord about the hardships he was enduring. A few days later, however, he won the lottery, enabling him to pay all his debts, recover financially, and even have enough left to save for the future.

There are moments in our lives when we wonder why we are experiencing so many hardships and trials. Like the good man in the story, we may find ourselves burdened with debts, disappointments, failures, and problems that seem too heavy for us to carry.

At times, we may even question the Lord and ask why life has become so difficult. Yet, in the midst of our pain and uncertainty, God quietly continues to work in ways we may not immediately understand.

The man who had lost almost everything eventually experienced an unexpected blessing. After winning the lottery, he was able to pay all his debts and begin anew with hope for the future. In the same way, the Lord reminds us that even in our darkest moments, His grace can still open doors that we never imagined possible.

Jesus told His disciples that they would go through sorrow and suffering while others around them rejoiced. However, He also assured them that their sadness would not last forever. As long as they remained close to Him, they would have the strength to endure every trial and overcome every difficulty.

Our journey with Jesus is not always easy. There will be seasons of drought, loneliness, confusion, and tears. Sometimes we may feel abandoned, weak, or discouraged. Yet, even in those painful moments, the Lord never leaves us.

He walks beside us, carries us in our weakness, and gently reminds us to place our trust in Him. When we continue to hold firmly to Christ Jesus, we discover that our trials can deepen our faith, strengthen our spirit, and draw us closer to His loving heart.

Let us not cling too tightly to the things of this world or rely only on our own strength, for worldly things can never fully heal the burdens of our hearts. Instead, let us hold firmly to Jesus, for He alone has the words of eternal life (John 6:68). In Him, we find true hope, lasting peace, and the courage to continue despite life’s struggles.

Today, as we carry our own crosses and face our personal battles, may we ask ourselves: When trials and difficulties come into our lives, do we run away from Jesus, or do we cling to Him more deeply and trust that He will never fail us?— Marino J. Dasmarinas