Reflection for Sunday November 23 The Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe: Luke 23:35-43

Gospel: Luke 23:35-43

The rulers sneered at Jesus and said, “He saved others, let him save himself if he is the chosen one, the Christ of God.” Even the soldiers jeered at him. As they approached to offer him wine they called out, “If you are King of the Jews, save yourself.” Above him there was an inscription that read, “This is the King of the Jews.”

Now one of the criminals hanging there reviled Jesus, saying, “Are you not the Christ? Save yourself and us.” The other, however, rebuking him, said in reply, “Have you no fear of God, for you are subject to the same condemnation? And indeed, we have been condemned justly, for the sentence we received corresponds to our crimes, but this man has done nothing criminal.”

Then he said, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.” He replied to him, “Amen, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise.

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Reflection:

Who among us would willingly follow the kingship of Jesus when He appears before us as the very image of human weakness? We look at Him hanging on the cross—bloodied, suffering, and dying. The rulers sneered at Him, and even the soldiers mocked Him. On the cross, Jesus seemed utterly helpless, and it appeared as though God Himself had abandoned Him.

If we had been present at the time of His crucifixion, would we have acted differently? We too might not have dared to come near Him, not even with a ten-foot pole. Perhaps we also would have silently walked away, just like the others who felt disappointed that the One they hoped would be their Messiah revealed such human frailty.

But what if Jesus had shown the image of King David in our first reading—a warrior, a conqueror, a triumphant leader? Surely crowds would have gathered around Him without hesitation. Yet Jesus did not choose to display a warrior-like demeanor. Instead, He embraced the path of humility, vulnerability, and surrender—a path His followers struggled to understand. And so, in His most trying moments, almost everyone deserted Him.

Still, in this moment of profound human weakness, someone saw beyond the suffering and recognized His kingship—the criminal hanging beside Him. What moved this sinner to see what others could not? What stirred him to ask, “Jesus, remember me when You enter Your kingdom”? It was his humility and his unwavering faith, even in the face of his own brokenness. And so we ask ourselves: Can someone wounded, sinful, and deeply flawed truly be humble? Can such a person have steadfast faith? Yes. Yes, it is very possible.

So how does this Gospel help us deepen our understanding of the kingship of Jesus? It calls us to walk the same path of humility. It invites us to approach Him with repentant hearts—by going to Mass, by receiving the Sacrament of Reconciliation as often as we can, and by daily asking Him to strengthen and increase our faith.

Yet, let us also be honest: many of us, at times, become situational followers of Jesus—faithful only when it is convenient, committed only when life is easy.

But the kingship of Jesus is revealed most powerfully not in His glory, but in His suffering love. And He gently invites us to follow Him there too.

So today, as we look at the crucified King, let us ask ourselves: Are we willing to follow Jesus not only in His triumphs, but also in His moments of suffering—trusting that His crown of thorns leads us to the crown of eternal life? – Marino J. Dasmarinas

Ang Mabuting Balita at Repleksyon sa Linggo Nobyembre 23 Pagkahari ng Panginoong Hesukristo sa Sanlibutan: Lucas 23:35-43

Mabuting Balita: Lucas 23:35-43

Noong panahong iyon, nilibak si Hesus ng mga pinuno ng bayan. Anila, “Iniligtas niya ang iba; iligtas naman niya ngayon ang kanyang sarili, kung siya nga ang Mesiyas, ang hinirang ng Diyos!” Nilibak din siya ng mga kawal, nilapitan at inalok ng maasim na alak. Sinabi nila, “Kung ikaw ang Hari ng mga Judio, iligtas mo ang iyong sarili.” At nakasulat sa ulunan niya sa wikang Griego, Latin at Hebreo, “Ito ang Hari ng mga Judio.”

Tinuya siya ng isa sa mga salaring nakabitin, at ang sabi, “Hindi ba ikaw ang Mesiyas? Iligtas mo ang iyong sarili, pati na kami!” Ngunit pinagsabihan siya ng kanyang kasama, “Hindi ka ba natatakot sa Diyos? Ikaw ma’y pinarurusahang tulad niya!

Matuwid lamang na tayo’y parusahan nang ganito dahil sa ating mga ginawa; ngunit ang taong ito’y walang ginawang masama.” At sinabi niya, “ Hesus, alalahanin mo ako kapag naghahari ka na.” Sumagot si Hesus, “Sinasabi ko sa iyo: ngayon di’y isasama kita sa Paraiso.”

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Repleksyon:

Sino ba sa atin ang buong-pusong susunod sa paghahari ni Jesus kung ang nakikita natin ay isang Hari na may anyo ng kahinaan? Siya’y nakabayubay sa krus—duguan, naghihingalo, at labis na naghihirap. Tinuya Siya ng mga pinuno, kinutya Siya ng mga kawal. Sa krus, si Jesus ay tila walang kapangyarihan, at para bang iniwan na Siya ng Diyos.

Kung naroon tayo noong oras ng Kanyang pagpapakasakit, magiging iba kaya ang ating naging tugon? Marahil hindi rin tayo naglakas-loob lumapit sa Kanya, kahit gaano pa tayo kalapit sa Kanya noon. Baka tulad din tayo ng maraming tahimik na lumisan dahil nadismaya sila sa ipinakitang kahinaan ni Jesus.

Ngunit paano kung si Jesus ay nagpakita ng wangis ni Haring David mula sa ating unang pagbasa—isang mandirigma, mananakop, at matagumpay na pinuno? Tiyak na dadagsa ang lahat sa Kanyang tabi.

Ngunit hindi iyon ang landas na pinili ni Jesus. Hindi Siya nagpakita ng pusong mandirigma; sa halip, niyakap Niya ang kababaang-loob, kahinaan, at pagpapakasakit—isang daan na mahirap unawain para sa Kanyang mga alagad. Kaya naman, sa Kanyang pinakamahirap na sandali, halos lahat ay tumalikod at iniwan Siya.

Subalit sa gitna ng Kanyang pinakamalalim na paghihirap, may isang nakakakita ng tunay Niyang pagkahari—ang kriminal na nakapako sa tabi Niya. Ano kaya ang nagtulak sa makasalanang iyon upang makita ang hindi nakita ng karamihan? Ano ang nag-udyok sa kanyang sabihin, “Jesus, alalahanin Mo ako kapag pumasok Ka sa Iyong kaharian”?

Ito’y dahil sa kanyang kababaang-loob at matatag na pananampalataya, kahit nasa bingit siya ng kamatayan. Kaya napapaisip tayo: Maaari bang maging mapagpakumbaba ang isang makasalanan? Maaari bang maging matatag ang pananampalataya ng isang taong may sugat at kahinaan? Oo, maaari. Tunay na maaari.

At paano tayo tinutulungan ng Ebanghelyong ito na mas maunawaan ang tunay na paghahari ni Jesus? Inaanyayahan tayong tahakin din ang landas ng kababaang-loob—sa paglapit sa Diyos nang may pagsisisi, sa taimtim na pagdalo sa Banal na Misa, sa madalas na pagtanggap sa Sakramento ng Kumpisal, at sa patuloy na paghingi kay Jesus na dagdagan ang ating pananampalataya araw-araw.

Ngunit, kung tayo’y magsasabi ng totoo, madalas ay nagiging “paminsan-minsang tagasunod” o “weather-weather” na tagasunod lamang tayo—tapat kung madali, masigasig kung magaan ang buhay, ngunit unti-unting lumalayo kapag dumarating ang pagsubok.

Gayunman, ang tunay na paghahari ni Jesus ay pinakamalinaw na nahahayag hindi sa Kanyang kaluwalhatian, kundi sa Kanyang mapagsakripisyong pag-ibig. At mahinahon Niya tayong inaanyayahang sumunod sa Kanya roon.

Kaya habang minamasdan natin ang ating Haring nakapako sa krus, hayaan nating itanong sa ating mga puso: Handa ba tayong sumunod kay Jesus hindi lamang sa Kanyang tagumpay, kundi maging sa Kanyang pagdurusa—naniniwalang ang Kanyang koronang tinik ang maghahatid sa atin sa korona ng buhay na walang hanggan? – Marino J. Dasmarinas

Reflection for Saturday November 22 Memorial of Saint Cecilia, Virgin and Martyr: Luke 20:27-40

Gospel: Luke 20:27-40

Some Sadducees, those who deny that there is a resurrection, came forward and put this question to Jesus, saying, “Teacher, Moses wrote for us, If someone’s brother dies leaving a wife but no child, his brother must take the wife and raise up descendants for his brother. 

Now there were seven brothers; the first married a woman but died childless. Then the second and the third married her, and likewise all the seven died childless. Finally the woman also died. Now at the resurrection whose wife will that woman be? For all seven had been married to her.” 

Jesus said to them, “The children of this age marry and remarry; but those who are deemed worthy to attain to the coming age and to the resurrection of the dead neither marry nor are given in marriage. they can no longer die, for they are like angels; and they are the children of God because they are the ones who will rise. 

That the dead will rise even Moses made known in the passage about the bush, when he called ‘Lord’ the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob; and he is not God of the dead, but of the living, for to him all are alive.” Some of the scribes said in reply, “Teacher, you have answered well.” And they no longer dared to ask him anything.

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Reflection:

Do we believe that there is life after death? The Sadducees, an organization within the Jewish faith, did not believe in the resurrection. So, they presented Jesus with a story about a woman who married seven brothers, and by asking whose wife she would be in the resurrection, they were mocking Jesus’ teachings. But Jesus, in His wisdom, revealed to them and to us—the deeper reality of life beyond the grave.

Sometimes, like the Sadducees, we may also limit our understanding of life. We may think that everything ends when we die, that our existence is confined only to what we can see and touch. Yet if there is no life after death, what would be the purpose of striving to live a meaningful and righteous life?

The truth is this: there is a resurrection. And we begin to sow its seeds the moment we turn away from sin and walk toward God’s light. Every humble act of repentance, every sincere act of love, every choice for goodness is a seed of eternity planted within us. And when our earthly life ends, we will have an up-close, personal encounter with the reality we have prepared for through our daily choices.

Jesus tells us clearly about the afterlife—about heaven, everlasting life, and the company of angels. Yet He also reminds us that this eternal joy is reserved for those who are considered worthy not by human judgment, but by the merciful eyes of God. It is God who sees our hearts, our struggles, our efforts, our wounds, and our desire to walk in His ways.

Are we living our lives with eternity in mind, sowing seeds that will bloom in the Resurrection, or are we settling only for what our eyes can see and our hands can touch?

If we were to meet the Risen Lord face-to-face today, would He find in us a heart ready for eternal life? – Marino J. Dasmarinas

Ang Mabuting Balita at Repleksyon para Sabado Nobyembre 22 Paggunita kay Santa Cecilia, dalaga at martir: Lucas 20:27-40

Mabuting Balita: Lucas 20:27-40

Noong panahong iyon, may ilang Saduseo na lumapit kay Hesus. Ang Saduseo’y hindi naniniwala na muling bubuhayin ang mga patay. “Guro,” anila, “naglagda po si Moises ng ganitong batas para sa amin: ‘Kung mamatay ang isang lalaki at maiwang walang anak ang kanyang asawa, ang kapatid na lalaki’y dapat pakasal sa balo upang magkaanak sila para sa namatay.’

May pitong magkakapatid na lalaki. Nag-asawa ang panganay, at namatay na walang anak. Napakasal sa balo ang pangalawa, at namatay. Gayun din ang nangyari sa pangatlo hanggang sa pampito: isa-isang napangasawa ng babae at pawang namatay na walang anak. Sa kahuli-huliha’y namatay naman ang babae. Sa muling pagkabuhay, sino po sa pito ang kikilalaning asawa niya yamang napangasawa niya silang lahat?”

Sumagot si Hesus, “Sa buhay na ito, ang lalaki at mga babae’y nag-aasawa, ngunit ang lalaki’t babaing karapat-dapat na muling buhayin para sa kabilang buhay ay hindi na mag-aasawa. Hindi na sila mamamatay sapagkat matutulad sila sa mga anghel. At sila’y mga anak ng Diyos yamang muli silang binuhay.

Maging si Moises ay nagpapatunay na muling binubuhay ang mga patay. Sapagkat sa kanyang kasaysayan hinggil sa nagliliyab na mababang punongkahoy, ang Panginoon ay tinawag niyang ‘Diyos ni Abraham, Diyos ni Isaac at Diyos ni Jacob.’

Ngunit ang Diyos ay hindi Diyos ng mga patay kundi ng mga buhay – sa kanya’y buhay ang lahat.” Sinabi ng ilan sa mga eskriba, “Magaling ang sagot ninyo, Guro!” At wala nang nangahas na magtanong sa kanya ng anuman.

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Repleksyon:

Tayo ba ay naniniwala na may buhay pagkatapos ng kamatayan? Noong panahon ni Jesus, may pangkat sa loob ng pananampalatayang Hudyo na tinatawag na mga Saduseo. Hindi sila naniniwala sa muling pagkabuhay.

Kaya, ikinuwento nila kay Jesus ang tungkol sa isang babaeng nag-asawa ng pitong magkakapatid, at tinanong nila kung sino ang magiging tunay niyang asawa sa muling pagkabuhay. Sa kanilang tanong, hindi sila naghahanap ng katotohanan—minamaliit nila ang turo ni Jesus tungkol sa buhay na walang hanggan.

Madalas, tayo rin ay nagkakaroon ng ganitong pag-iisip. Minsan iniisip nating hanggang dito nalang ba sa mundong ibabaw ang lahat? Kapag natapos ang buhay, tapos na rin ang kahulugan, tapos na ang lahat? Pero kung wala talagang buhay pagkatapos ng kamatayan, ano pa ang saysay ng pagsisikap nating mamuhay nang may kabanalan, kabutihan, at katapatan?

Ito ang katotohanan: may muling pagkabuhay. At nagsisimula na nating ihanda ang ating sarili para rito sa bawat pagkakataong pinipili nating talikuran ang kasalanan at lumapit sa liwanag ng Diyos. Ang bawat taos-pusong pagsisisi, bawat munting kabutihan, bawat pag-ibig at pag papatawad na ipinakita natin—lahat ng ito ay pagtatanim ng binhi ng buhay na walang hanggan. At kapag dumating ang araw ng ating pagpanaw, haharap tayo nang malapitan at personal sa katotohanang ito.

Ipinahayag ni Jesus ang tungkol sa buhay sa kabila ng kamatayan—ang langit, ang walang hanggang buhay, at ang piling ng mga anghel. Ngunit hindi lahat ay makapapasok doon; tanging yaong mga itinuturing na karapat-dapat ayon sa mahabaging mata ng Diyos. Alam Niya ang ating mga sugat, pakikibaka, hangarin, at tahimik na pagsusumikap na mamuhay ayon sa Kanyang kalooban.

Sa paraan ba ng ating pamumuhay, tunay ba nating inihahanda ang ating puso para sa buhay na walang hanggan—o masyado parin tayong alipin ng mundong pansamantala lamang? – Marino J. Dasmarinas

Reflection for Friday November 21 Memorial of the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary: Luke 19:45-48

Gospel: Luke 19:45-48

Jesus entered the temple area and proceeded to drive out those who were selling things, saying to them, “It is written, My house shall be a house of prayer, but you have made it a den of thieves.”  

And every day he was teaching in the temple area. The chief priests, the scribes, and the leaders of the people, meanwhile, were seeking to put him to death, but they could find no way to accomplish their purpose because all the people were hanging on his words.

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Reflection:

The Memorial of the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary in the Temple celebrated since the 6th century points us to a life completely entrusted to God. Mary, while still a young child, was brought by her parents to the temple in Jerusalem and was offered to God. This early experience prepared her heart to become the “temple of the Son of God.”

After Jesus cleansed the temple of impurities, He taught there daily. And even now, He continues to teach us every moment of our life. He teaches us how to live rightly, reminding us that life is not about accumulating material things or intellectual achievements. For Jesus, life is service. Life is humility. Life is sacrifice. Life is simplicity. Life is unconditional love.

What might Jesus have been teaching in the temple each day? We can only imagine that He spoke about how to behave in the house of God. Perhaps He also taught them how to live a life pleasing to the Father. Is there a model for how we are to live our own lives? Of course there is—the life of Jesus Himself. His life is the perfect template of holiness and purpose. But are we willing to walk the same path He walked?

As followers of Christ, let us also become teachers like Him. Let us teach our children about Jesus and guide them to show reverence and discipline in the church. Let us proclaim the life of Jesus not merely with words, but through our daily actions, for it is through our example that we best reflect the Lord. It may be tempting for some to think that His way of life no longer fits our fast-paced, technology-driven world.

But the truth is this: Jesus’ life is more relevant today than ever before. Just look at how our values are being corrupted, how human life is being devalued—even destroyed in the womb. Truly, Jesus is a man for all seasons and for all generations. His teachings remain timeless, powerful, and essential. Therefore, we must listen to Him with open hearts and willing spirits.

Are we truly listening to the Lord? – Marino J. Dasmarinas

Ang Mabuting Balita at Repleksyon sa Biyernes Nobyembre 21 Paggunita sa Pagdadala sa Mahal na Birhen sa Templo: Lucas 19:45-48

Mabuting Balita: Lucas 19:45-48

Noong panahong iyon, pumasok si Jesus sa templo at kanyang ipinagtabuyan ang mga nagtitinda. Sinabi niya sa mga ito, "Nasusulat: 'Ang aking bahay ay tatawaging bahay-dalanginan.' Ngunit ginawa ninyong 'pugad ng mga magnanakaw'."

Araw-araw, si Jesus ay nagtuturo sa loob ng templo. Pinagsikapan ng mga punong saserdote, ng mga eskriba, at ng mga pangunahin ng bayan na siya'y ipapatay. Subalit wala silang makitang paraan upang maisagawa ito, sapagkat taimtim na nakikinig sa kanya ang buong bayan.

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Repleksyon:

Ang paggunita ng Pagdadala sa Mahal na Birheng Maria sa Templo—na ipinagdiriwang mula pa noong ika-6 na siglo. Si Maria, bagama’t bata pa lamang, ay dinala ng kanyang mga magulang sa templo sa Herusalem at inialay sa Diyos. Ang maagang karanasang ito ang naghanda sa Kanyang puso upang maging “templo ng Anak ng Diyos.”

Pagkatapos linisin ni Jesus ang templo mula sa mga karumihan, araw-araw Siyang nagturo roon. At hanggang ngayon, patuloy Niya tayong tinuturuan sa bawat sandali ng ating buhay. Itinuturo Niya sa atin kung paano mamuhay nang tama, ipinapaalala na ang buhay ay hindi tungkol sa pag-iipon ng kayamanan o karunungan. Para kay Jesus, ang buhay ay paglilingkod. Ang buhay ay kababaang-loob. Ang buhay ay sakripisyo. Ang buhay ay kasimplehan. Ang buhay ay pag-ibig na walang panukat.

Ano kaya ang itinuro ni Jesus sa templo araw-araw? Maaari lamang nating isipin na tinuruan Niya sila kung paano kumilos sa tahanan ng Diyos. Marahil itinuro rin Niya kung paano mamuhay nang kalugud-lugod sa Ama. Mayroon bang huwaran kung paano natin dapat isabuhay ang ating sariling buhay? Siyempre mayroon—ang mismong buhay ni Jesus. Ang Kanyang buhay ang perpektong huwaran ng kabanalan. Ngunit handa ba tayong tahakin ang daang Kanyang tinahak?

Bilang mga tagasunod ni Kristo, nawa’y maging mga tagapagturo rin tayo tulad Niya. Turuan natin ang ating mga anak tungkol kay Jesus at akayin silang magpakita ng paggalang sa simbahan. Ipagpahayag natin ang buhay ni Jesus hindi lamang sa salita, kundi higit sa ating pang-araw-araw na gawa, sapagkat sa pamamagitan ng ating halimbawa higit nating naipapakita ang Panginoon. Maaaring isipin ng ilan na ang Kanyang paraan ng pamumuhay ay hindi na angkop sa mabilis at makabagong mundo natin ngayon.

Ngunit ito ang katotohanan: Mas mahalaga at mas kailangan natin ang buhay ni Jesus ngayon. Tunay nga, si Jesus ay Tao para sa lahat ng panahon at lahat ng salinlahi. Ang Kanyang mga turo ay laging napapanahon, makapangyarihan, at kailangang-kailangan. Kaya naman, dapat natin Siyang pakinggan ng boung puso at kaluluwa

Tunay ba nating pinakikinggan ang Panginoon? – Marino J. Dasmarinas

Reflection for November 20 Thursday of the 33rd Week in Ordinary Time: Luke 19:41-44

Gospel: Luke 19:41-44

As Jesus drew near Jerusalem, he saw the city and wept over it, saying, “If this day you only knew what makes for peace but now it is hidden from your eyes. For the days are coming upon you when your enemies will raise a palisade against you; they will encircle you and hem you in on all sides.  

They will smash you to the ground and your children within you, and they will not leave one stone upon another within you because you did not recognize the time of your visitation.”

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Reflection:

Do we obey Jesus when He invites us to stop sinning, or when He gently urges us to avoid the people and places that lead us into sin? Many times, Jesus speaks to us through those closest to us—through a family member, a friend, or even through a life-changing event. In His loving wisdom, He uses these moments to guide us away from darkness and into His light.

During His earthly ministry, Jesus called people to repentance with clarity and compassion. Some opened their hearts to Him, but many chose to continue in their sinful way of life. By ignoring His invitation, they wrapped themselves in burdens they could have easily avoided if they had only listened.

When we look closely at our own journeys, we realize that we too have been lovingly warned, gently guided, and tenderly reminded to live clean and renewed lives. Time and again, God sends us grace-filled opportunities to let go of our sinfulness. But do we listen? Oftentimes, we do not. We follow the path of our own desires and allow ourselves to be influenced by forces that distance us from Jesus’ loving embrace.

Yet Jesus remains the truest friend we will ever have. He is our wisest adviser, our faithful companion, and our unfailing guide. When we listen to Him, we lose nothing and gain everything—peace, clarity, purpose, and the joy that only He can give.

Are we truly listening to Jesus, or are we still listening to the voices that lead us away from Him? – Marino J. Dasmarinas

Ang Mabuting Balita at Repleksyon sa Nobyembre 20 Huwebes sa Ika-33 Linggo ng Karaniwang Panahon: Lucas 19:41-44

Mabuting Balita: Lucas 19:41-44

Noong panahong iyon, nang malapit na siya sa Jerusalem at matanaw niya ang lunsod, ito'y kanyang tinangisan. Sinabi niya, "Kung nalalaman mo lamang sa araw na ito kung ano ang makapagdudulot sa iyo ng kapayapaan! Ngunit lingid ito ngayon sa iyong paningin.

Sapagkat darating ang araw na paliligiran ka ng kuta ng iyong mga kaaway, kukubkubin at gigipitin sa magkabi-kabila. Wawasakin ka nila, at lilipulin ang mga anak mo sa loob ng iyong muog. At ni isang bato'y wala silang iiwan sa ibabaw ng kapwa bato, sapagkat hindi mo pinansin ang pagdating ng Diyos upang iligtas ka."

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Repleksyon:

Tayo ba ay sumusunod kay Jesus kapag tinatawag Niya tayong tumigil sa paggawa ng kasalanan? Kapag marahan Niya tayong inaanyayahan na umiwas sa mga tao at sitwasyong nagtutulak sa atin sa pagkakasala? Madalas, ginagamit ni Jesus ang mga taong malapit sa atin—isang kapamilya, kaibigan, o isang pangyayari sa buhay—upang akayin tayo palayo sa kadiliman at ibalik sa Kanyang liwanag.

Noong kapanahunan ni Jesus sa mundo, malinaw at may pagmamahal Niyang ipinahayag ang panawagan sa pagbabalik-loob. May ilan na tumugon, ngunit marami ang nagmatigas at nagpatuloy sa kanilang makasalanang pamumuhay. Sa kanilang hindi pakikinig, nabalot nila ang kanilang mga sarili sa mga pasaning sana’y naiwasan nila kung nakinig lamang sila sa tinig ng Panginoon.

Kung tapat nating susuriin ang ating sariling buhay, mapapansin natin na paulit-ulit din tayong binibigyan ng Diyos ng mga pagkakataong magbago—mga paalaala, tawag, at gabay upang mamuhay nang malinis at bago. Ngunit nakikinig ba tayo? Madalas, hindi. Mas pinipili pa natin sundin ang ating mga pagnanasang makasarili, at hinahayaan nating maimpluwensiyahan tayo ng mga puwersang lumalayo sa atin kay Jesus.

Gayunpaman, si Jesus pa rin ang pinakamatalik na kaibigan na maaari tayong magkaroon. Siya ang pinakamarunong nating tagapayo, tapat na kasama, at gabay na kailanman ay hindi nagkukulang at nangiiwan. Kapag Siya ang ating pinakinggan, walang mawawala sa atin at napakarami tayong makakamit: kapayapaan, kaliwanagan, direksiyon, at kagalakang tanging Siya lamang ang makapagbibigay.

Tunay ba nating pinakikinggan si Jesus, o mas pinakikinggan pa rin natin ang mga tinig na naglalayo sa atin sa Kanya? – Marino J. Dasmarinas 

Reflection for November 19 Wednesday of the Thirty-third Week in Ordinary Time: Luke 19:11-28

Gospel: Luke 19:11-28

While people were listening to Jesus speak, he proceeded to tell a parable because he was near Jerusalem and they thought that the Kingdom of God would appear there immediately. So he said, “A nobleman went off to a distant country to obtain the kingship for himself and then to return.

He called ten of his servants and gave them ten gold coins and told them, ‘Engage in trade with these until I return.’ His fellow citizens, however, despised him and sent a delegation after him to announce, ‘We do not want this man to be our king.’ But when he returned after obtaining the kingship, he had the servants called, to whom he had given the money, to learn what they had gained by trading.

The first came forward and said, ‘Sir, your gold coin has earned ten additional ones. He replied, ‘Well done, good servant! You have been faithful in this very small matter; take charge of ten cities.’ Then the second came and reported, ‘Your gold coin, sir, has earned five more.’ And to this servant too he said, ‘You, take charge of five cities.’

Then the other servant came and said, ‘Sir, here is your gold coin; I kept it stored away in a handkerchief, for I was afraid of you, because you are a demanding man; you take up what you did not lay down and you harvest what you did not plant.’

He said to him, ‘With your own words I shall condemn you, you wicked servant. You knew I was a demanding man, taking up what I did not lay down and harvesting what I did not plant; why did you not put my money in a bank? Then on my return I would have collected it with interest.’

And to those standing by he said, ‘Take the gold coin from him and give it to the servant who has ten.’ But they said to him, ‘Sir, he has ten gold coins.’ He replied, ‘I tell you, to everyone who has, more will be given, but from the one who has not, even what he has will be taken away. Now as for those enemies of mine who did not want me as their king, bring them here and slay them before me.

After he had said this, he proceeded on his journey up to Jerusalem.

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Reflection:

What is our mission in this world? Our mission is to become productive followers of the Lord. And how can we become such followers? When we spread our faith, confront and avoid sin, and do good, we become fruitful followers. But when we choose to do nothing for the Lord, we become unproductive followers who bear no fruit for His kingdom.

The good Lord lovingly invites us to share our faith so that we may grow, for this is the only way we can truly bear fruit. Yet many of us hesitate, telling ourselves that we do not know enough about Jesus or about our Catholic faith. But how can we grow in what we do not seek to understand? How can we love Someone we do not strive to know more deeply?

The secret to knowing Jesus is simple: we must open our hearts to discover Him daily. The more we discover who He is, the more we receive the grace and the tools to become His productive followers. And one of the best places to begin this journey of discovery is through our faithful presence at the Holy Mass, where Jesus Himself meets us, nourishes us, and teaches us.

We therefore need to know Jesus more—so that we may mature in faith, and so that in time, we may joyfully share what we have come to know and love about Him. The Lord has already equipped us with the grace we need through our Baptism and Confirmation. He has planted His gifts in us; now we are called to nurture them.

But will we allow Jesus to lead us into a deeper encounter with Him, or will we continue to hide behind our excuses and fears? – Marino J. Dasmarinas 

Ang Mabuting Balita at Repleksyon sa Nobyembre 19 Miyerkules sa Ika-33 Linggo ng Karaniwang Panahon: Lucas 19:11-28

Mabuting Balita: Lucas 19:11-28

Noong panahong iyon, isinaysay ni Hesus ang isa pang talinghaga sa mga nakarinig ng una niyang pangungusap. Ginawa niya ito sapagkat malapit na siya sa Jerusalem, at ang akala ng mga tao ay itatatag na ang kaharian ng Diyos. Sabi niya: "May isang mahal na taong nagtungo sa malayong lupain upang gawing hari at magbalik pagkatapos niyon.

Bago siya umalis, tinawag niya ang sampu sa kanyang mga alipin. Binigyan niya ang mga ito ng tig-iisang salaping ginto at sinabihan sila. 'Ipangalakal ninyo iyan hanggang sa pagbabalik ko.' Poot na poot naman sa kanya ang kanyang mga kababayan, kaya't pagkaalis niya, nagsugo sila ng mga kinatawan upang sabihin sa kinauukulan: 'Ayaw naming maging hari ang taong ito!'

"Ngunit ginawa ring hari ang taong iyon. Umuwi siya pagkatapos, at ipinatawag ang mga aliping binigyan niya ng salaping ginto, upang malaman kung gaano ang tinubo ng bawat isa. Lumapit sa kanya ang una at ang sabi, 'Panginoon, ang salapi ninyong ginto ay nagtubo ng sampu.' 'Magaling,' sagot niya. 'Mabuting alipin!

Yamang naging matapat ka sa kakaunting bagay, pamamahalain kita sa sampung bayan.' Lumapit ang ikalawa at ang sinabi, 'Panginoon, ang salapi ninyong ginto ay nagtubo ng lima.' At sinabi niya sa kanya, 'Mamahala ka sa limang bayan.'

Lumapit ang isa pang alipin at nagsabi, 'Panginoon, heto po ang inyong salaping ginto. Binalot ko sa panyo at itinago. Natatakot po ako sa inyo, sapagkat napakahigpit ninyo; kinukuha ninyo ang hindi sa inyo, at inaani ang hindi ninyo inihasik.' Sinagot siya ng kanyang panginoon, 'Masamang alipin! Sa salita mong iyan kita hahatulan. Alam mo palang ako'y mahigpit. Sinabi mo, kinukuha ko ang hindi sa akin at inani ko ang hindi inihasik.

Bakit hindi mo inilagay sa bangko ang aking salapi? Pagbabalik ko, sana'y may tinubo ang puhunang ito.' At sinabi niya sa mga naroroon , 'Kunin ninyo sa kanya ang salaping ginto, at ibigay sa may sampu.' 'Panginoon, siya po'y mayroon nang sampung salaping ginto!' wika nila.

'Sinasabi ko sa inyo: ang bawat mayroon ay bibigyan pa, ngunit ang wala, kahit ang kakaunting nasa kanya ay kukunin pa. Tungkol naman sa mga kaaway kong aayaw na ako'y maghari sa kanila-- dalhin ninyo rito at patayin sa harapan ko!'" Pagkasabi nito, nagpauna si Jesus patungong Jerusalem.

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Repleksyon:

Ano ba ang ating misyon sa mundong ito?

Ang ating misyon ay maging tunay na mabubungang tagasunod ng Panginoon. At paano ba tayo magiging ganitong uri ng tagasunod? Kapag ibinabahagi natin ang ating pananampalataya, iniiwasan ang kasalanan, at gumagawa ng mabuti, tayo ay nagiging mabubunga Niyang alagad. Ngunit kapag wala tayong ginagawa para sa Panginoon, nagiging di-mabunga at walang naihahandog ang ating buhay sa Kanya.

Palagi tayong inaanyayahan ng Panginoon na ibahagi ang ating pananampalataya upang tayo ay lumago, sapagkat ito ang tanging paraan upang tayo ay mamunga. Ngunit marami sa atin ang natatakot magbahagi, at palagi nating dahilan na kulang tayo sa kaalaman tungkol kay Jesus at sa ating pananampalatayang Katoliko. Ngunit paano natin Siya makikilala kung hindi natin pagsisikapang makilala Siya nang mas malalim? Paano natin Siya mamahalin kung hindi tayo nauuhaw sa kanya?

Simple lamang ang sikreto upang makilala nang lubos si Jesus: kailangan nating buksan ang ating puso sa patuloy na pagtuklas sa Kanya. Kapag mas nakikilala natin Siya, mas binibigyan Niya tayo ng biyaya at kakayahang maging mabubunga Niyang tagasunod. At isa sa pinakamainam na simula ng paglalakbay na ito ay ang ating pagdalo sa Banal na Misa, kung saan Siya mismo ang nakikipagtagpo sa atin, nagpapalakas sa atin, at nagtuturo sa atin.

Kailangan nating higit na makilala si Jesus upang tayo ay mas lumalim sa ating pananampalataya—at sa tulong ng biyaya Niya, maibahagi rin natin sa iba ang ating nalalaman at natatanggap mula sa Kanya. Binigyan na tayo ni Jesus ng kinakailangang biyaya sa pamamagitan ng ating Binyag at Kumpil. Naitanim na Niya sa atin ang Kanyang mga kaloob; ngayon, tayo naman ang inaasahang magpapausbong at magpapabunga nito.

Ngunit handa ba tayong hayaan si Jesus na dalhin tayo sa mas malalim na ugnayan sa Kanya, o patuloy ba tayong magtatago sa kanya dahil tayo ay alipin parin ng mundong ito? – Marino J. Dasmarinas

Reflection for November 18 Tuesday of the Thirty-third Week in Ordinary Time: Luke 19:1-10

Gospel: Luke 19:1-10

At that time, Jesus came to Jericho and intended to pass through the town. Now a man there named Zacchaeus, who was a chief tax collector and also a wealthy man, was seeking to see who Jesus was; but he could not see him because of the crowd, for he was short in stature. So he ran ahead and climbed a sycamore tree in order to see Jesus, who was about to pass that way. 

When he reached the place, Jesus looked up and said, “Zacchaeus, come down quickly, for today I must stay at your house.” And he came down quickly and received him with joy. When they all saw this, they began to grumble, saying, “He has gone to stay at the house of a sinner.” 

But Zacchaeus stood there and said to the Lord, “Behold, half of my possessions, Lord, I shall give to the poor, and if I have extorted anything from anyone I shall repay it four times over.” And Jesus said to him, “Today salvation has come to this house because this man too is a descendant of Abraham. For the Son of Man has come to seek and to save what was lost.”

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Reflection:

The story is told of a man who aspired to become wealthy because he believed that once he achieved riches, he would finally experience happiness and fulfillment. He worked tirelessly to attain his ambition, even to the point of dirtying his hands with dishonest wealth.

And although he eventually became wealthy, he remained neither happy nor fulfilled. His heart was still restless—until he found Jesus. From then on, his life changed, and he finally discovered the peace and fulfillment his soul had been longing for.

Zacchaeus was very much like that man—and very much like many of us. He aspired to become wealthy no matter the cost. His job as a tax collector helped make that ambition a reality, and he did not hesitate to enrich himself with corrupt money. Externally, he seemed successful, powerful, and secure. But deep within, he was empty, unsettled, and without peace.

Perhaps after indulging in the trappings of dirty wealth and influence, Zacchaeus realized that something essential was still missing. Despite having almost every worldly thing he could ask for, his heart remained restless. He longed for something more, something deeper, something that no amount of money or power could ever give.

Many of us can relate. We chase wealth, success, status, or power, thinking that these will finally satisfy us. We strive harder, accumulate more, and compete fiercely, believing that once we “make it,” we will finally be happy. But often, the more we gain, the less we sleep soundly. Our hearts remain anxious, our minds restless, and our spirits unsettled—all because we try to fill spiritual hunger with material things.

But something happened to Zacchaeus. When he heard about Jesus, hope stirred in his heart. From then on, he promised himself that he would seek Jesus no matter what it took. And when Jesus passed by, Zacchaeus ran with all his might.

He didn’t mind pushing through a sea of people. He didn’t mind climbing a sycamore tree just to catch a glimpse of the One who could heal his tired heart. He knew deep within that only Jesus could give him the peace and fulfillment he had been searching for all his life.

Zacchaeus found in Jesus what wealth and power could never provide. And the same remains true for us today. We may have our own ambitions. We may have our own pursuits. We may have our own “sycamore trees” to climb. But in the end, true peace and lasting fulfillment can only be found in Jesus.

What are we chasing today? And when Jesus passes by, will we climb whatever tree we must, just to meet Him and let Him change our lives? – Marino J. Dasmarinas

Ang Mabuting Balita at Repleksyon Nobyembre 18 Martes sa Ika-33 Linggo ng Karaniwang Panahon: Lucas 19:1-10

Mabuting Balita: Lucas 19:1-10

Noong panahong iyon, pumasok si Jesus sa Jerico, at naglakad sa kabayanan. Doo'y may isang mayamang puno ng mga publikano na nagngangalang Zaqueo, at pinagsikapan niyang makita si Jesus upang makilala niya kung sino ito. Ngunit siya ay napakapandak, at dahil sa dami ng tao, hindi niya makita si Jesus.

Kaya't patakbo siyang nagpauna at umakyat sa isang puno ng sikomoro upang makita si Jesus na magdaraan doon. Pagdating ni Jesus sa dakong iyon, siya'y tumingala at sinabi sa kanya, "Zaqueo, bumaba ka agad, sapagkat kailangan kong tumuloy sa bahay mo." Nagmamadali siyang bumaba, at tuwang-tuwang tinanggap si Jesus.

Lahat ng nakakita nito ay nagbulung-bulungan. "Nakikituloy siya sa isang makasalanan," wika nila. Tumayo si Zaqueo at sinabi, "Panginoon, ibibigay ko po sa mga dukha ang kalahati ng aking ari-arian. At kung ako'y may nadayang sinuman, apat na ibayo ang isasauli ko sa kanya." At sinabi sa kanya ni Jesus, "Ang kaligtasa'y dumating ngayon sa sambahayang ito; lipi rin ni Abraham ang taong ito. Sapagkat naparito ang Anak ng Tao upang hanapin at iligtas ang naligaw."

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Repleksyon:

May isang kuwento tungkol sa isang lalaki na naghangad maging mayaman dahil inisip niyang kapag siya ay yumaman, saka lamang siya magiging tunay na masaya. Ginawa niya ang lahat para maabot ang kanyang pangarap—kahit ang dumihan ang kanyang mga kamay sa hindi tapat na paraan.

Sa huli, naging mayaman nga siya, ngunit nanatili pa rin siyang hungkag at hindi kontento. Hindi payapa ang puso niya—hanggang sa makilala niya si Jesus. Mula noon, nagbago ang kanyang buhay at natagpuan niya ang kapayapaang matagal na niyang hinahanap.

Si Zaqueo ay katulad ng lalaking iyon—at kadalasan, katulad din natin. Naghangad siya ng kayamanan anuman ang kapalit. Ginamit niya ang kanyang posisyon bilang maniningil ng buwis upang yumaman, kahit nangangahulugan itong pagyaman sa maruming paraan. Kung titingnan sa panlabas, mukha siyang matagumpay, makapangyarihan, at kontento. Ngunit sa kaibuturan ng kanyang puso, siya ay hungkag, balisa, at walang kapayapaan.

Marahil matapos niyang malasap ang lahat ng layaw at impluwensyang dulot ng maruming yaman, napagtanto niya na may kulang pa rin. Kahit halos lahat ng makamundong bagay ay nasa kanya na, nananatili pa ring may puwang sa kanyang puso na hindi kayang punuin ng anumang bagay dito sa mundo. May hinahanap siya—isang kapayapaang hindi kayang ibigay ng pera o kapangyarihan.

Marami sa atin ay ganito rin. Hinahabol natin ang kayamanan, tagumpay, katanyagan, at impluwensya dahil iniisip nating kapag mayroon tayo nito, saka tayo magiging masaya. Kaya nagsisikap tayo nang husto, nangangalap pa nang higit pa, at nakikipagkumpitensya—umaasang kapag “nakuha na natin ang lahat,” doon darating ang tunay na kaligayahan.

Ngunit madalas, habang dumarami ang ating kayamanan, lalo namang hindi tayo mapakali. Hindi mahimbing ang tulog, hindi payapa ang isip, at hindi panatag ang puso—sapagkat hinahabol natin ang mga bagay na hindi kailanman kayang punan ang ating espirituwal na pagkauhaw.

Ngunit may nangyari kay Zaqueo. Nang marinig niya si Jesus, may umusbong na pag-asa sa kanyang puso. Mula noon, ipinangako niya sa sarili na hahanapin niya si Jesus anuman ang mangyari.

At nang dumaan si Jesus sa kanilang lugar, tumakbo siya nang buong bilis at lakas. Hindi niya inalintana ang kapal ng tao. Hindi rin niya ininda ang pag-akyat sa puno ng sikomoro, basta’t makita lamang si Jesus—ang tanging maaaring magbigay ng kapayapaan sa kanyang uhaw at pagod na puso.

Natagpuan ni Zaqueo kay Jesus ang hindi kayang ibigay ng anumang kayamanan at kapangyarihan at ito rin ang ating madidiskubre pag natagpuan natin Siya.

Mayroon tayong kani-kaniyang mga hangarin. Mayroon tayong mga pangarap. Mayroon tayong mga “puno ng sikomoro” na dapat akyatin. Ngunit sa huli, si Jesus lamang ang nagbibigay ng kapayapaan at kaganapan na tunay nating hinahangad. Walang iba kundi si Jesus lamang.

Ano ba ang hinahabol natin? Kapag dumaan ba si Jesus sa ating buhay, handa ba tayong gawin ang lahat kasama na ang ating pag iwan sa ating mga kasalanan upang Siya ay makatagpo para tuluyan na niyang baguhin at linisin ang ating puso, pagkatao at kaluluwa? – Marino J. Dasmarinas

Reflection for Monday November 17 Memorial of Saint Elizabeth of Hungary, Religious: Luke 18:35-43

Gospel: Luke 18:35-43

As Jesus approached Jericho a blind man was sitting by the roadside begging, and hearing a crowd going by, he inquired what was happening. They told him, “Jesus of Nazareth is passing by.” He shouted, “Jesus, Son of David, have pity on me!” The people walking in front rebuked him, telling him to be silent, but he kept calling out all the more, “Son of David, have pity on me!”  

Then Jesus stopped and ordered that he be brought to him; and when he came near, Jesus asked him, “What do you want me to do for you?” He replied, “Lord, please let me see.” Jesus told him, “Have sight; your faith has saved you.” He immediately received his sight and followed him, giving glory to God. When they saw this, all the people gave praise to God.

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Reflection:

Does it pay to be persistent and to have faith in Jesus?

It always pays to be persistent in any endeavor we pursue, because persistence always carries a reward. How many success stories have been built upon persistence? Perhaps thousands—maybe even millions. These persistent individuals toil quietly, work diligently, and refuse to give up until they achieve their purpose.

The blind man in the Gospel also showed remarkable persistence. He never stopped crying out, “Son of David!” even when people around him tried to silence him. He refused to lose heart. And because he persevered, his persistence eventually caught the attention of Jesus. But it wasn’t just persistence that drew him near to the Lord—it was also his deep and unwavering faith.

Afterwards, Jesus asked him, “What do you want me to do for you?” And with childlike trust he replied, “Lord, please let me see.” Jesus then said, “Have sight; your faith has saved you.”

But what if the blind man had given up? What if he had allowed discouragement, criticism, or noise to drown out his voice? What if he had doubted his worth or questioned Jesus’ mercy? He would have missed the miracle that changed his life.

In the same way, we, too, are called to remain persistent and to hold on to a powerful faith in Jesus. We may not see any sign of hope at the moment. We may feel unheard or overlooked. Yet Jesus responds in His own perfect time, and His timing is always filled with love, wisdom, and purpose.

So let us keep crying out to Him. Let us persist in prayer. Let us trust His heart even when we cannot see His hand. He hears us more than we know, and He walks with us more than we realize.

Are we willing to persist in our cries to Jesus and will our faith remain strong even when the answers seem delayed? – Marino J. Dasmarinas

Ang Mabuting Balita at Repleksyon sa Lunes Nobyembre 17 Paggunita kay Santa Isabel ng Unggari, namanata sa Diyos: Lucas 18:35-43

Mabuting Balita: Lucas 18:35-43

Malapit na si Hesus sa Jerico, at doo’y may isang lalaking bulag na nakaupo sa tabi ng daan at nagpapalimos. Nang marinig nitong nagdaraan ang maraming tao, itinanong niya kung ano ang nangyayari.

“Nagdaraan si Hesus na taga Nazaret,” sabi nila. At siya’y sumigaw, “Hesus, Anak ni David! Mahabag po kayo sa akin!” Sinaway siya ng mga nasa unahan, ngunit lalo pa niyang nilakasan ang sigaw: “Anak ni David, mahabag po kayo sa akin!”

Kaya’t tumigil si Hesus, at iniutos na dalhin sa kanya ang bulag. Inilapit nga ito at tinanong ni Hesus, “Ano ang ibig mong gawin ko sa iyo?” “Panginoon, ibig ko po sana’y manumbalik ang aking paningin,” sagot niya.

At sinabi ni Hesus, “Mangyari ang ibig mo! Pinagaling ka dahil sa iyong pananalig.” Noon din, nakakita siya at sumunod kay Hesus, at nagpasalamat sa Diyos. Nang makita ito ng mga tao, silang lahat ay nagpuri sa Diyos.

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Repleksyon:

May mabuti bang dulot ang maging matiyaga at magkaroon ng pananampalataya kay Jesus?

Laging may pakinabang ang pagiging matiyaga sa anumang landas na ating tinatahak, sapagkat ang tunay na pagtitiyaga ay laging may kaakibat na gantimpala. Ilan na bang tagumpay ang itinayo sa haligi ng pagtitiyaga? Marahil libo-libo o baka milyon na. Ang mga taong matiyaga ay tahimik na nagpapagal, buong-kapuri-puring nagsisikap, at hindi sumusuko hanggang makamtan nila ang kanilang layunin.

Ang bulag na lalaki sa Ebanghelyo ay isa ring huwaran ng pag titiyaga. Hindi siya tumigil sa pag-iyak ng, “Anak ni David!” kahit pinatatahimik siya ng mga tao sa paligid. Hindi niya hinayaang panghinaan siya ng loob. At dahil sa kanyang pagpupursigi, narinig siya ni Jesus. Ngunit hindi lang tiyaga ang naglapit sa kanya sa Panginoon—kundi pati ang kanyang malalim at matatag na pananampalataya.

Tinanong siya ni Jesus, “Ano ang nais mong gawin ko para sa iyo?” At buong tiwala siyang tumugon, “Panginoon, nawa’y makakita po ako.” Sinabi ni Jesus, “Magkaroon ka ng paningin; iniligtas ka ng iyong pananampalataya.”

Ngunit paano kaya kung sumuko siya? Paano kung hinayaan niyang talunin siya ng mga saway, pangungutya, o ingay ng tao? Paano kung nadala siya ng alinlangan o pagdududa sa habag ni Jesus? Siguradong nawaglit niya ang himalang lubusang nagpanibago ng kanyang buhay.

Sa atin ding paglalakbay, tinatawag tayong maging matiyaga at patuloy na kumapit sa makapangyarihang pananampalataya sa Panginoon. Maaaring wala tayong nakikitang pag-asa ngayon. Maaaring pakiramdam natin ay hindi tayo naririnig o napapansin. Ngunit tumutugon si Jesus sa Kanyang perpektong oras, at ang oras na iyon ay laging puno ng pag-ibig, karunungan, at layunin.

Kaya magpatuloy tayong tumawag sa Kanya. Magtiyaga tayong manalangin. Magtiwala tayo sa Kanyang puso, kahit hindi natin nakikita ang Kanyang kamay. Nakikinig Siya higit sa ating inaakala, at kasama natin Siya higit sa ating napapansin.

Handa ba tayong magpatuloy sa pagtawag kay Jesus at mananatili kaya ang ating pananampalataya kahit tila naaantala ang Kanyang kasagutan?  - Marino J. Dasmarinas