Ang Mabuting Balita at Repleksyon para sa Agosto 18 Lunes sa Ika-20 Linggo ng Karaniwang Panahon: Mateo 19:16-22

Mabuting Balita: Mateo 19:16-22

Noong panahong iyon, may isang lalaking lumapit kay Hesus at nagtanong, "Guro, ano pong kabutihan ang kailangan kong gawin upang magkamit ng buhay na walang hanggan?" Sumagot si Jesus, "Bakit mo ako tinatanong kung ano ang mabuti? Iisa lamang ang mabuti. Kung ibig mong magkamit ng buhay, sundin mo ang mga utos."

"Alin-alin po?" tanong niya. Sumagot si Jesus, "Huwag kang papatay; huwag kang mangangalunya; huwag kang magnanakaw; huwag kang magsisinungaling sa iyong pagsaksi; igalang mo ang iyong ama at ina; at ibigin mo ang iyong kapwa, gaya nang pag-ibig mo sa iyong sarili."

Sinabi ng binata, "Tinutupad ko na pong lahat iyan. Ano pa po ang dapat kong gawin?" "Kung ibig mong maging ganap, humayo ka, ipagbili mo ang iyong ari-arian at ipamahagi sa mga dukha ang pinagbilhan. Kapag ginawa mo iyan, magkakaroon ka ng kayamanan sa langit.

Pagkatapos, bumalik ka at sumunod sa akin." sagot ni Jesus. Pagkarinig nito, malungkot na umalis ang binata, sapagkat siya'y napakayaman.

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Repleksyon:

Handa ka bang isuko ang lahat upang sumunod kay Jesus? 

Kay lapit na, ngunit kay layo pa rin—ito marahil ang sinapit ng binatang lumapit kay Jesus upang itanong kung ano ang dapat niyang gawin upang magmana ng buhay na walang hanggan. Sinunod na niya ang mga utos ng Diyos nang tapat, subalit nang sabihin sa kanya ni Jesus na ipagbili ang lahat ng kanyang ari-arian, ipamigay sa mga dukha, at saka sumunod sa Kanya—nabagabag ang kanyang puso. Siya ay tahimik na lumayo, sapagkat hindi niya kayang bitiwan ang kanyang maraming kayamanan. 

Ang binatang ito ay larawan ng marami sa atin ngayon. Nais nating sundan ang Panginoon nang buo ang puso, ngunit hirap tayong pakawalan ang mga bagay ng sanlibutan. Bulong ng yaman, kaginhawaan, at kasiguruhan: “hawakan mo ako,” ngunit paanyaya ni Jesus: “ Sumunod ka.” Ano ba ang nasa kayamanan na tila’t alipin tayo nito? Hindi natin ito madadala sa ating libingan. Hindi natin ito mahahawakan kapag tayo’y tumanda at nanghina, sapagkat ito’y mapupunta rin sa iba—o baka tuluyang mawala. 

Nauunawaan ito ni San Francisco ng Assisi. Siya ay isinilang sa mayamang angkan, ngunit kanyang isinuko ang lahat upang buong-pusong tumugon sa tawag ng Diyos. Ang kanyang radikal na pagsuko ay nagpapaalala sa atin na ang tunay na kagalakan at kalayaan ay hindi galing sa pagkakaroon ng marami, kundi sa pagbibigay ng marami. 

Ang kalooban din ng Diyos para sa atin ay ang ibahagi ang ating mga biyaya upang ang iba ay magkaroon ng buhay at pag-asa. Totoo, mahirap itong gawin—dahil nangangailangan ito ng pagbabagong-loob, pagbabago ng pamumuhay, at pagkiling hindi sa sarili kundi kay Kristo. 

Subalit hindi lahat ay tinatawag na iwan ang lahat gaya ni San Francisco. Marami sa atin ang may pamilyang binubuhay, mga anak na inaalagaan, at mga tungkuling ginagampanan. Ngunit hindi ibig sabihin nito ay hindi na tayo magbibigay. 

Ang halaga ay hindi nakasalalay sa laki ng ating naibibigay, kundi sa pagmamahal na pinagmumulan nito. Ang maliit na handog, kung ito ay nagmumula sa pusong may pananampalataya, ay nagiging isang dakilang kayamanan sa paningin ng Diyos. 

Ang pagsunod kay Jesus ay laging may kapalit. Ang paglakad sa Kanyang mga yapak ay nangangahulugang pakakawalan natin ang mga bagay na mahigpit nating hinahawakan—maaaring ito ay kayamanan, kayabangan, ambisyon, o kahit ang ating mga takot. Ngunit kapag tayo’y bumitaw, nagbibigay daan tayo para punuin Niya tayo ng higit na dakilang bagay: ang Kanyang pag-ibig, Kanyang kapayapaan, at Kanyang buhay na walang hanggan. 

Ikaw ba ay gaya ng binata sa Mabuting Balita ngayon, na lumayo nang malungkot sapagkat siya’y maraming tinatanganang ari-arian? O gaya ka ba ni San Francisco ng Assisi, na isinuko ang lahat upang buong puso’y tumugon sa tawag ng Panginoon? 

Nawa’y pagkalooban tayo ng Espiritu Santo ng lakas ng loob upang bitawan ang mga bagay na panandalian lamang, upang tayo’y makakapit sa kayamanang kailanman ay hindi kumukupas—si Jesucristo mismo. — Marino J. Dasmarinas

Reflection for August 17, 20th Sunday in Ordinary Time: Luke 12:49-53

Gospel: Luke 12:49-53

Jesus said to his disciples: “I have come to set the earth on fire, and how I wish it were already blazing! There is a baptism with which I must be baptized, and how great is my anguish until it is accomplished! Do you think that I have come to establish peace on the earth? No, I tell you, but rather division. 

From now on a household of five will be divided, three against two and two against three; a father will be divided against his son and a son against his father, a mother against her daughter and a daughter against her mother, a mother-in-law against her daughter-in-law and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law.

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Reflection:

Has there been a time in your family when, in your desire to correct a wrong, you found yourself creating conflict? Perhaps you gently reminded your spouse to come home early and not linger with friends after work—not out of control or nagging, but out of love and concern—because you knew that arriving late often meant coming home a little drunk. 

In the Gospel, Jesus calls us to courage. He invites us to speak out whenever we see a loved one straying from the right path. Sometimes, speaking the truth in love may build temporary walls between us. Yet if these walls are built by truth, they are worth it—for truth is the very thing that will set us free. 

Think about it: if we witness immorality within the family—a husband or wife “playing with fire”—should the other spouse simply ignore it, pretending to see and hear no evil in the face of such blatant disrespect and satanic behavior? Of course not! Love demands that we speak up. Silence in such a moment is not kindness—it is surrender to sin’s slow corrosion of the soul. 

The tragedy for some of us is that we choose passivity. We close our eyes to wrongdoing, not because we approve of it, but because we fear the division or conflict that may follow. But this fear is misplaced. Jesus does not call us to comfort—He calls us to holiness, and holiness often requires confrontation with what is wrong. 

This mindset of silence is dangerously wrong. Our Lord asks us, whenever we see sin at work, to denounce not only the act but the evil that lurks within it—even if doing so means enduring strained relationships for a season. Why? Because wrong will never right itself through silence. 

So instead of sealing our lips, let us, in love and humility, speak out. Let us not tire of exposing wrongdoing until the darkness is driven out and the wrongdoer is set free. 

May we remember: in Christ, the goal is never to destroy, but to heal; never to condemn, but to restore. Speaking the truth in love is not about winning an argument—it is about winning a soul for God. – Marino J. Dasmarinas

Ang Mabuting Balita at Repleksyon para sa Agosto 17, Ika-20 na Linggo sa Karaniwang Panahon: Lucas 12:49-53

Mabuting Balita: Lucas 12:49-53

Noong panahong iyon, sinabi ni Hesus sa kanyang mga alagad, "Naparito ako upang magdala ng apoy sa lupa -- at sana'y napagningas na ito! May isang binyag pa na dapat kong tanggapin, at nababagabag ako hangga't hindi natutupad ito! Akala ba ninyo'y pumarito ako upang magdala ng kapayapaan sa lupa? 

Sinasabi ko sa inyo: hindi kapayapaan kundi pagkabaha-bahagi. Mula ngayon, ang lima katao sa isang sambahayan ay mababahagi: tatlo laban sa dalawa at dalawa laban sa tatlo. Maglalaban-laban ang ama at ang anak na lalaki, ang ina at ang anak na babae, at gayon din ang biyenang babae, at manugang na babae."

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Repleksyon:

Mayroon bang pagkakataon sa inyong pamilya na sa kagustuhan mong ituwid ang mali ay nakalikha ka ng alitan?

Maaaring marahan mong pinaalalahanan ang iyong asawa na umuwi nang maaga at iwasan munang makipagkwentuhan sa mga kaibigan pagkatapos ng trabaho. Hindi dahil sa pagdidikta kundi dahil sa pagmamahal at pag-aalala—sapagkat alam mong kapag siya’y umuuwi nang gabi na, kadalasan ay may tama ng alak.

Sa Mabuting Balita po, tayo’y tinatawag ni Jesus na maging matapang. Inaanyayahan Niya tayong magsalita at kumilos kapag nakikita nating ang isang minamahal ay nalilihis ng landas. Minsan, ang pagsasabi ng katotohanan nang may pagmamahal ay maaaring magtayo ng pansamantalang pader sa pagitan natin. Ngunit kung ang pader na ito ay itinayo ng katotohanan, ito’y mahalaga—sapagkat ang katotohanan mismo ang magpapalaya sa atin.

Isipin natin ito: kung masaksihan natin ang imoralidad sa pamilya—isang asawa na “nakikipaglaro sa apoy”—dapat ba na magbulag-bulagan at magbingi-bingihan sa harap ng hindi mabuting gawain na ito? Siyempre hindi! Ang dapat gawin ay magsalita tayo. Ang katahimikan sa ganitong pagkakataon ay hindi kabutihan—ito ay tahimik na pagsuko sa demonyo o kay satanas.

Nakakalungkot, ngunit may ilan sa atin na pinipiling manahimik. Ipinipikit natin ang ating mga mata sa mali, hindi dahil sang-ayon tayo rito, kundi dahil sa takot na baka magdulot ito ng hidwaan o pagkakawatak-watak. Subalit ang takot na ito ay maling-mali. Hindi tayo tinawag ni Jesus para ipikit ang ating mga mata sa mga kasalanan—tinawag Niya tayo para sa kabanalan. At ang kabanalan ay kadalasang nangangailangan ng pagtindig laban sa kasalanan.

Ang pananahimik ay lubhang mapanganib. Hiniling sa atin ng Panginoon na tuwing makakakita tayo ng kasalanan, ito ay ating tutulan—kahit pa ang pagtutol na ito ay magdulot ng pansamantalang lamat sa relasyon. Sapagkat hindi kailanman maitatama ang mali kung mananatili tayong tahimik.

Kaya sa halip na manahimik, magsalita tayo nang may pagmamahal at pagpapakumbaba. Huwag tayong magsawang ilantad ang kasamaan hanggang sa tuluyang mapalayas si satanas para mapalaya ang nagkakasala. – Marino J. Dasmarinas

Reflection for August 16 Saturday of the 19th Week in Ordinary Time: Matthew 19:13-15

Gospel: Matthew 19:13-15

Children were brought to Jesus that he might lay his hands on them and pray. The disciples rebuked them, but Jesus said, “Let the children come to me, and do not prevent them; for the Kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” After he placed his hands on them, he went away.

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Reflection:

Do you bring your children to church for Holy Mass? Do you take time to tell them about Jesus? Do you read to them the life of Jesus in the Bible? These are not just casual acts of parenting—they are sacred opportunities to lead the hearts of our children closer to the One who loves them most. 

Why is it so important to bring our children to Jesus? First and foremost, it assures them of a good future—not just in this fleeting world but in eternity. This is the promise of Jesus: to give our children a bright and godly future, measured not by the shallow standards of this world but by His own divine standard. 

Just imagine—if our children grow up close to Jesus, how different their lives will be. We would have fewer worries and heartaches because they would be guided daily by His hand. His presence in their hearts would serve as a compass, directing their steps toward what is pure, true, and holy. 

Yet, some parents today hesitate to bring their children closer to Christ. They fear that their sons or daughters might feel called to the priesthood or religious life. And their reason? “There’s no money in that.” True—there may be little financial gain in these vocations. But let us remember: we were not created to live for money alone. We were created to live the teachings of Jesus, to love as He loves, and to journey toward heaven. 

What would it profit our children to have all the wealth the world can give, yet lack the presence of Jesus in their lives? When we lead our children to Christ, we are not only investing in their eternal future—we are also securing our own place with Him in the life to come. – Marino J. Dasmarinas

Ang Mabuting Balita Agosto 16 Sabado sa Ika-19 Linggo ng Karaniwang Panahon: Mateo 19:13-15

Mabuting Balita: Mateo 19:13-15

Noong panahong iyon, may nagdala ng mga bata kay Jesus upang hilinging ipatong niya sa mga ito ang kanyang kamay at ipanalangin.

Ngunit pinagwikaan sila ng mga alagad. Datapwat sinabi ni Jesus, "Hayaan ninyong lumapit sa akin ang mga bata. Huwag ninyo silang hadlangan, sapagkat sa katulad nila naghahari ang Diyos." Ipinatong niya sa kanila ang kanyang mga kamay, saka umalis.

Reflection for Friday August 15 Solemnity of the Assumption 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, “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, and 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 forever.” 

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

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Reflection: 

Is selfless love still relevant today? 

Selfless love is a rare and precious virtue in our world today. What we often see is a me-first or self-centered mindset—love redefined as self-care or self-love, as they say. We make sure that our needs are met first before we even think of giving ourselves to others. And so, slowly, we forget how to live as a person for others. 

Yet in doing so, we miss a profound truth: when we are selfless, we breathe life, joy, and hope into the hearts of others. We bless them when we give of ourselves without counting the cost. And the blessings we pour out quietly find their way back to us—sometimes in ways we least expect, but always in ways that touch our soul. 

The Blessed Mother shows us the beauty of such love. She was not consumed by her own comfort or convenience. Even in the tender months of her own pregnancy, she made the long journey to her cousin Elizabeth—offering her presence, her care, and her love. She stayed until Elizabeth gave birth, ensuring she was supported and comforted during a delicate time. What love could be greater than giving yourself fully when you, too, are in need? 

In this age, when so many are preoccupied with personal happiness, social media validation, and self-fulfillment, Mary’s example stands as a gentle but firm invitation: Look beyond yourself. See the needs of others. Love even when you long to be loved. 

Who are those who need our love the most? Let us begin with our mothers. Like Elizabeth, they have carried us, nurtured us, and prayed for us. They are growing older with each passing day, and though we may not notice the quiet changes, there will come a day when they will no longer be with us. While they are still here, let us love them in ways they can feel—in words, in actions, in time shared. What will it cost us? Almost nothing, yet the joy it will bring them is immeasurable. 

And beyond our mothers, there are countless others who need our love—friends who are silently struggling, neighbors carrying heavy burdens, strangers longing for a kind word. They may never say it, but they are waiting for someone to see them, to care for them, to love them without asking for anything in return. 

The truth is, life is never measured by the wealth we accumulate or the possessions we own. It is measured by the selfless acts of love, kindness, and mercy we offer to others. 

Do you love as Mary loves? Do you go out of your way to bring Christ’s presence into the lives of others? Do you allow God to use you as an instrument of His agape—love that gives without expecting anything back? 

May the Blessed Mother lead us to her Son, who is Love Himself. And may our hearts learn the joy of loving without measure, for in giving ourselves away, we discover the fullness of life. — Marino J. Dasmarinas

Ang Mabuting Balita Biyernes Agosto 15 Ang Dakilang Kapistahan ng Pag-akyat sa Langit sa Mahal na Birheng Maria : Lucas 1:39-56

Mabuting Balita: Lucas 1:39-56

Si Maria'y nagmamadaling pumunta sa isang bayan sa kaburulan ng Juda. Pagdating sa bahay ni Zacarias, binati niya si Elisabet. Nang marinig ni Elisabet ang bati ni Maria, naggagalaw ang sanggol sa kanyang tiyan. Napuspos ng Espiritu Santo si Elisabet, at buong galak na sinabi, "Pinagpala ka sa mga babae, at pinagpala rin ang dinadala mo sa iyong sinapupunan! 

Sino ako upang dalawin ng ina ng aking Panginoon? Sapagkat pagkarinig ko ng iyong bati ay naggagalaw ang sanggol sa tuwa sa aking tiyan. Mapalad ka sapagkat nanalig kang matutupad ang ipinasasabi sa iyo ng Panginoon!"  

At sinabi ni Maria, "Ang puso ko'y nagpupuri sa Panginoon, at nagagalak ang aking espiritu dahil sa Diyos na aking Tagapagligtas. Sapagkat nilingap niya ang kanyang abang alipin! At mula ngayon, ako'y tatawaging mapalad ng lahat ng salinlahi. Dahil sa mga dakilang bagay na ginawa sa akin ng Makapangyarihan -- Banal ang kanyang pangalan!  

Kinahahabagan niya ang mga may takot sa kanya, sa lahat ng sali't-saling lahi. Ipinakita niya ang lakas ng kanyang mga bisig, pinangalat niya ang mga palalo ang isipan. ibinagsak niya ang mga hari mula sa kanilang trono, at itinaas ang mga nasa abang kalagayan.  

Binusog niya ng mabubuting bagay ang mga nagugutom, at pinalayas niyang wala ni anuman ang mayayaman. Tinulungan niya ang kanyang bayang Israel, bilang pagtupad sa pangako niya sa ating mga magulang, kay Abraham at sa kanyang lahi, magpakailanman!"  

Tumira si Maria kina Elisabet nang may tatlong buwan, at saka umuwi.

Reflection for Thursday August 14 Memorial of Saint Maximilian Kolbe, Priest and Martyr: Matthew 18:21–19:1

Gospel: Matthew 18:21-19:1

Peter approached Jesus and asked him, “Lord, if my brother sins against me, how often must I forgive him? As many as seven times?” Jesus answered, “I say to you, not seven times but seventy-seven times. That is why the Kingdom of heaven may be likened to a king who decided to settle accounts with his servants. 

When he began the accounting, a debtor was brought before him who owed him a huge amount. Since he had no way of paying it back, his master ordered him to be sold, along with his wife, his children, and all his property, in payment of the debt. At that, the servant fell down, did him homage, and said, ‘Be patient with me, and I will pay you back in full.’ 

Moved with compassion the master of that servant let him go and forgave him the loan. When that servant had left, he found one of his fellow servants who owed him a much smaller amount. He seized him and started to choke him, demanding, ‘Pay back what you owe.’ Falling to his knees, his fellow servant begged him, ‘Be patient with me, and I will pay you back.’ 

But he refused. Instead, he had the fellow servant put in prison until he paid back the debt. Now when his fellow servants saw what had happened, they were deeply disturbed, and went to their master and reported the whole affair. His master summoned him and said to him, ‘You wicked servant! 

I forgave you your entire debt because you begged me to. Should you not have had pity on your fellow servant, as I had pity on you?’ Then in anger his master handed him over to the torturers until he should pay back the whole debt. So will my heavenly Father do to you, unless each of you forgives his brother from his heart.” 

When Jesus finished these words, he left Galilee and went to the district of Judea across the Jordan. 

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Reflection:

The story is told about a philandering husband who was finally caught by his wife. The husband realized his mistake, so he humbly asked for forgiveness. After days of prayer and deep contemplation, the wife finally found it in her heart to forgive her unfaithful husband. 

In the Gospel, Jesus speaks to us about the beauty and depth of true forgiveness. His forgiveness is not partial, hesitant, or tinged with resentment—it is a forgiveness that is complete and unconditional. 

It is a forgiveness without a trace of bitterness or hatred, a forgiveness that can wash away even the darkest stains of our past and paint over them with the bright and gentle colors of hope, healing, and new beginnings. 

But in moments of honest reflection, we might ask ourselves: Can I truly forgive the way Jesus forgives? Many of us would instinctively say, “I cannot.” Why? Because we think, I am only human and Jesus is God. I am finite, and He is infinite. 

Yet, if this is our reasoning, we must remember this truth: Jesus not only forgave us—He also offered His very life for us. On the cross, He forgave those who betrayed Him, denied Him, and crucified Him. His mercy is beyond measure, and His example is meant not only to inspire us but to transform us. 

Who is your role model when it comes to forgiveness? Is it Jesus, whose love knows no bounds, or the unforgiving servant in the Gospel, who could not pass on the mercy he had received? 

Forgiveness is not weakness—it is the power of God at work in the human heart. When we choose to forgive, we choose to let God’s grace flow through us. And in doing so, we not only free others, but we also free ourselves. — Marino J. Dasmarinas 

Ang Mabuting Balita Huwebes Agosto 14 Paggunita kay San Maximilliano Maria Kolbe, pari at martir: Mateo 18:21-19:1

Mabuting Balita: Mateo 18:21-19:1

Noong panahong iyon, lumapit si Pedro at nagtanong kay Jesus."Panginoon, makailan kong patatawarin ang aking kapatid na paulit-ulit na nagkakasala sa akin? Makapito po ba? Sinagot siya ni Jesus, Hindi ko sinasabing makapito, kundi pitumpung ulit pa nito. Sapagkat ang paghahari ng Diyos ay katulad nito ipinasiya ng isang hari na pagbayarin ng kanyang mga lingkod na may utang sa kanya.  

Unang dinala sa kanya ang isang may utang na sampung milyong piso. Dahil sa siya'y walang ibayad, iniutos ng hari na ipagbili siya, ang kanyang asawa, mga anak, at lahat ng ari- arian, upang makabayad. Nanikluhod ang taong ito sa harapan ng hari at nagmakaawa. Bigyan pa ninyo ako ng panahon at babayaran ko sa inyo ang lahat. Naawa sa kanya ang hari kaya ipinatawad ang kanyang mga utang at pinayaon siya, Ngunit pagkaalis niya roon ay nakatagpo niya ang isa sa kanyang kapwa lingkod na may utang na limandaang piso sa kanya.  

Sinunggaban niya ito at sinakal sabay wika. 'Magbayad ka ng utang mo!' Naglumuhod iyon at nagmakaawa sa kanya. Bigyan mo pa ako ng panahon at babayaran kita. Ngunit hindi siya pumayag, sa halip ipinabilanggo niya ang kayang kapwa lingkod hanggang sa ito'y makabayad. Nang makita ng kanyang mga kapwa lingkod ang nangyari, sila'y labis na nagdamdam; pumunta sila sa hari at isinumbong ang nangyari.  

Kaya't ipinatawag siya ng hari. 'Ikaw--napakasama mo!' sabi niya. 'Pinatawad kita sa utang mo sapagkat nagmakaawa ka sa akin. Nahabag ako sa iyo hindi ba dapat ka ring mahabag sa kapwa mo?' At sa galit ng hari, siya'y ipinabilanggo hanggang sa mabayaran niya ang kanyang utang. Gayon din ang gagawin sa inyo ng aking Amang nasa langit kung hindi ninyo patatawarin ang inyong kapatid.  

Pagkatapos sabihin ni Jesus ang mga bagay na ito, siya'y umalis na sa Galilea at nagtungo sa lupain ng Judea, sa kabila ng Ilog Jordan. 

Reflection for August 13 Wednesday of the 19th Week in Ordinary Time: Matthew 18:15-20

Gospel: Matthew 18:15-20

(Jesus said to his disciples) “If your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault between you and him alone. If he listens to you, you have won over your brother. If he does not listen, take one or two others along with you, so that every fact may be established on the testimony of two or three witnesses. 

If he refuses to listen to them, tell the Church. If he refuses to listen even to the Church, then treat him as you would a Gentile or a tax collector. Amen, I say to you, whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven. 

Again, amen, I say to you, if two of you agree on earth about anything for which they are to pray, it shall be granted to them by my heavenly Father. For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.” 

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Reflection: 

The story is told of a mother who would always shout at her daughter whenever she committed a mistake. This was her behavior until her child grew up; eventually, the child learned to answer back. Thus, whenever the mother shouted at her, she would also shout back to reciprocate the insult. In time, when the daughter matured, she became aloof and distant toward her mother. 

What is the importance of having a one-on-one talk with someone who has offended you or someone who is at fault? It shows your sincerity to help the person grow and be restored. It sends the message that you wish to address the matter with love, resolve the problem without grandstanding, and avoid wounding anyone further. By doing so, you communicate that you desire to build bridges of understanding rather than walls of separation. 

Yet many of us fall into the mistake of correcting someone in front of a crowd. Instead of bringing the person closer to correction, healing, and reconciliation, such public rebuke often drives them farther away. It inflicts deeper emotional wounds that may leave scars for life. Words spoken in public anger can echo in a person’s heart far longer than we realize. 

Jesus teaches us the gentle art of private correction. He calls us to approach others with humility and kindness, especially when they have gone astray. But often, our pride overpowers our compassion, and we allow arrogance to guide our actions rather than love. We must ask ourselves: What is the value of power if it only divides and wounds? What is the point of correcting someone in full public view if it sows resentment and hatred that might later bear bitter fruit? 

The way of Jesus in resolving conflict is always marked by diplomacy, fraternal correction, and gentleness—never arrogance or power-tripping to prove one’s influence. He invites us to follow His example, to speak truth in love, and to seek reconciliation over self-justification. 

How do you exercise your power and authority? Do you use it to build others up, or to tear them down? May we all choose the way of Christ—restoring with love, healing with gentleness, and leading with humility. – Marino J. Dasmarinas

Ang Mabuting Balita Agosto 13 Miyerkules sa Ika-19 Linggo ng Karaniwang Panahon: Mateo 18:15-20

Mabuting Balita: Mateo 18:15-20

Noong panahong iyon, sinabi ni Hesus sa kanyang mga alagad: "Kung magkasala sa iyo ang kapatid mo, puntahan mo siya at kausapin nang sarilinan. Kapag nakinig siya sa iyo, ang pagsasama ninyong magkapatid ay napanauli mo sa dati at napapanumbalik mo siya sa Ama.  

Ngunit kung hindi siya makinig sa iyo, magsama ka pa ng isa o dalawang tao upang ang lahat ng pinag-uusapan ninyo ay mapatunayan ng dalawa o tatlong saksi. Kung hindi siya makinig sa kanila, sabihin mo ito sa pagtitipon sa simbahan.  

At kung hindi pa siya makinig sa natitipong simbahan, ituring mo siyang isang Hentil o isang publikano." "Sinasabi ko sa inyo: anumang ipagbawal ninyo sa lupa ay ipagbabawal sa langit, at anumang ipahintulot ninyo sa lupa ay ipahihintulot sa langit."

"Sinasabi ko pa rin sa inyo: kung ang dalawa sa inyo dito sa lupa ay magkaisa sa paghingi ng anumang bagay sa inyong panalangin, ipagkakaloob ito sa inyo ng aking Amang nasa langit. Sapagkat saanman may dalawa o tatlong nagkakatipon dahil sa akin, naroon akong kasama nila."

Reflection for August 12 Tuesday of the 19th Week in Ordinary Time: Matthew 18:1-5, 10, 12-14

Gospel: Matthew 18:1-5, 10, 12-14

The disciples approached Jesus and said, “Who is the greatest in the Kingdom of heaven?” He called a child over, placed it in their midst, and said, “Amen, I say to you, unless you turn and become like children, you will not enter the Kingdom of heaven. Whoever becomes humble like this child is the greatest in the Kingdom of heaven. And whoever receives one child such as this in my name receives me. 

“See that you do not despise one of these little ones, for I say to you that their angels in heaven always look upon the face of my heavenly Father. What is your opinion? If a man has a hundred sheep and one of them goes astray, will he not leave the ninety-nine in the hills and go in search of the stray? And if he finds it, amen, I say to you, he rejoices more over it than over the ninety-nine that did not stray. In just the same way, it is not the will of your heavenly Father that one of these little ones be lost.”

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Reflection:

Many of us, if not all, place a premium on recognition. We naturally feel good when others notice our efforts, appreciate our hard work, and commend us for what we do. We nod in silent approval, and deep within, there’s a quiet sense of satisfaction. Recognition in itself is not wrong — but if it becomes our primary motivation, we risk missing something far greater. 

In today’s Gospel, the disciples approached Jesus with a question: “Who is the greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven?” In response, Jesus called a little child to stand among them and said, “Unless you turn and become like children, you will not enter the Kingdom of Heaven.” It was a simple but powerful gesture — an object lesson in humility.  

Perhaps in that moment, Jesus was silently asking Himself: Do they follow Me because they seek greatness in My Kingdom? Do they follow Me for the applause and recognition of others? Do they understand that following Me means letting go of oneself, laying down personal ambitions, and embracing humility? Do they realize that the very heart of discipleship is not self-exaltation but self-emptying? 

We, too, are often like the disciples. We may work hard for the Church or serve our fellowmen, yet in the depths of our hearts, we may long for affirmation, applause, or praise. But God did not create us to chase after titles, honor, or human recognition. He created us to reflect His heart — a heart that is meek and humble. 

Therefore, in all that we do, let us resist the temptation to seek greatness for ourselves. Instead, let us faithfully and humbly do what is asked of us, knowing that this is what Jesus desires. Recognition, honor, and reward will come in God’s perfect time — not as the goal we strive for, but as a grace we receive when our hearts are set only on glorifying Him.  

When we serve in humility, we find the true joy of discipleship. And in God’s Kingdom, it is not the proud, but the humble, who are truly great. – Marino J. Dasmarinas 

Reflection for Monday August 11 Memorial of Saint Clare, Virgin: Matthew 17:22-27

Gospel: Matthew 17:22-27

As Jesus and his disciples were gathering in Galilee, Jesus said to them, “The Son of Man is to be handed over to men, and they will kill him, and he will be raised on the third day.” And they were overwhelmed with grief.   

When they came to Capernaum, the collectors of the temple tax approached Peter and said, “Does not your teacher pay the temple tax?” “Yes,” he said. When he came into the house, before he had time to speak, Jesus asked him, “What is your opinion, Simon? From whom do the kings of the earth take tolls or census tax?    

From their subjects or from foreigners?” When he said, “From foreigners,” Jesus said to him, “Then the subjects are exempt. But that we may not offend them, go to the sea, drop in a hook, and take the first fish that comes up. Open its mouth and you will find a coin worth twice the temple tax. Give that to them for me and for you.”

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Reflection:

Do you generously give to your church? 

In today’s Gospel, we hear about the payment of the temple tax. Although Jesus and His disciples were exempt from paying it, our Lord still instructed Peter to go and pay the tax. Why? because Jesus wanted to set an example — to willingly contribute to the upkeep of the house of God and to the work done in His name. 

This simple yet profound act of generosity invites us to look within and ask ourselves: How generous am I to my church? Do I give with an open heart during the offertory, not out of obligation, but out of love for God and His people? 

Our giving is not merely about maintaining church buildings and facilities. It is also about supporting the ministers and workers who serve the community and reaching out to the poor, the sick, and the forgotten. 

We may not always see it, but the church quietly and faithfully cares for those in need, often without making any public announcement. This unseen service is sustained by the offerings we place before the Lord. 

When we give generously, we are not losing anything — in fact, we are sowing seeds that will return to us a hundredfold. The blessings that come back may not always be financial. They may come in the form of peace and harmony in our family, good health, protection from harm, and other graces that no amount of money can buy. 

Let us remember: every gift we give to God through His church is a declaration of our trust in Him. And our God is never outdone in generosity. – Marino J. Dasmarinas

Ang Mabuting Balita Lunes Agosto 11 Paggunita kay Santa Clara, dalaga: Mateo 17:22-27

Mabuting Balita: Mateo 17:22-27

Noong panahong iyon, nang nagkakatipon sa Galilea, ang mga alagad, sinabi sa kanila ni Jesus, "Ang Anak ng Tao ay ipagkakanulo at papatayin, ngunit muling mabubuhay sa ikatlong araw," At sila'y lubhang nagdalamhati. Pagdating nila sa Capernaum, lumapit kay Pedro ang mga maniningil ng buwis para sa templo. Tinanong siya, "Nagbabayad ba ng buwis para sa templo ang inyong Guro?" "Opo," sagot ni Pedro.  

At nang dumating siya sa bahay, tinanong na agad siya ni Jesus: "Ano ba ang palagay mo, Simon? Kanino sumisingil ng bayad sa lisensiya o buwis ang mga hari sa lupa? Sa mga mamamayan ba o mga dayuhan?"  

"Sa mga dayuhan po," tugon niya. sinabi ni Jesus, "Kung gayon, hindi pinagbabayad ang mga mamamayan. Gayunaman, para wala silang masabi sa atin, pumaroon ka sa lawa at ihagis mo ang kawil. Kunin mo ang unang isdang mahuhuli. Ibuka mo ang bibig nito at may makikita kang isang salaping pilak. Kunin mo ito at ibayad mo sa buwis nating dalawa."