Reflection for Sunday June 18, Eleventh Sunday in Ordinary Time: Matthew 9:36-10:8

Gospel: Matthew 9:36—10:8

At the sight of the crowds, Jesus’ heart was moved with pity for them because they were troubled and abandoned, like sheep without a shepherd. Then he said to his disciples, “The harvest is abundant but the laborers are few; so ask the master of the harvest to send out laborers for his harvest.” 

Then he summoned his twelve disciples and gave them authority over unclean spirits to drive them out and to cure every disease and every illness. The names of the twelve apostles are these: first, Simon called Peter, and his brother Andrew; James, the son of Zebedee, and his brother John; Philip and Bartholomew, Thomas and Matthew the tax collector; James, the son of Alphaeus, and Thaddeus; Simon from Cana, and Judas Iscariot who betrayed him. 

Jesus sent out these twelve after instructing them thus, “Do not go into pagan territory or enter a Samaritan town. Go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel. As you go, make this proclamation: ‘The kingdom of heaven is at hand.’ Cure the sick, raise the dead, cleanse lepers, drive out demons. Without cost you have received; without cost you are to give.”

 

Reflection:

Do you have a heart for the poor?

We are in hard times right now, the global economy is in decline, prices of commodities are all surging at unbelievable pace. Many workers are being laid-off due to downsizing and the effect of artificial inteliigence we don’t know when will this end. The poor who are the vast majority are getting poorer by the day. Given the situation that we have right now, I am sure Jesus heart is bleeding with pity for us. 

The poor people of this world are so many but the laborers who are willing to sacrifice and help them are so few. There’s an imbalance so to speak. Like the apostles whom Jesus summoned; those who have in life are being called by Jesus to help those who have nothing. They are those who can barely afford to buy their food we just need to look around and we’ll see them. 

The apostles whom Jesus summoned were not wealthy they were ordinary people like, fishermen, tax collector and sinners. But Jesus had chosen them simply because they were ready to respond. 

The sign of the times calls for us to listen to Jesus’ call to feed the hungry, to share our blessings no matter how small. Jesus further states: "Without cost you have received; without cost you are to give." 

Would you care to listen the voice of the Lord? – Marino J. Dasmarinas 

Ang Mabuting Balita para sa Linggo Hunyo 18, Ika – 11 Linggo sa Karaniwang Panahon: Mateo 9:36-10:8

Mabuting Balita: Mateo 9:36-10:8

Noong panahong iyon, nilibot ni Hesus ang mga bayan at nayon at nagturo sa mga sinagoga. Ipinangaral niya ang Mabuting Balita tungkol sa paghahari ng Diyos, at pinagaling ang mga may sakit, anuman ang kanilang karamdaman. 

Nang makita niya ang napakaraming tao, nahabag siya sa kanila sapagkat sila’y lito at lupaypay, parang mga tupang walang pastol. Kaya’t sinabi niya sa kanyang mga alagad, “Sagana ang anihin, ngunit kakaunti ang mag-aani. Idalangin ninyo sa may-ari ng anihin na magpadala siya ng mga manggagawa sa kanyang anihin.”

Tinipon ni Hesus ang labindalawang alagad at binigyan ng kapangyarihang magpalayas ng masasamang espiritu at magpagaling ng mga may karamdaman. Ito ang pangalan ng labindalawang apostol: si Simon na tinatawag na Pedro at si Andres na kanyang kapatid; sina Santiago at Juan na mga anak ni Zebedeo; sina Felipe at Bartolome; si Tomas, at si Mateo na publikano; si Santiago na anak ni Alfeo, at si Tadeo; si Simong makabayan at si Judas Iscariote, ang nagkanulo kay Hesus.

Ang labindalawang ito’y sinugo ni Hesus at kanyang pinagbilinan: “Huwag kayong pupunta sa lugar ng mga Hentil, o sa alinmang bayan ng mga Samaritano. Sa halip ay hanapin ninyo ang mga nawawalang tupa ng sambahayan ng Israel. Humayo kayo at ipangaral ninyo na malapit nang maghari ang Diyos.”

Pagalingin ninyo ang mga maysakit at buhayin ang mga patay. Pagalingin ninyo ang mga ketongin at palayasin ang mga demonyo. Yamang tumanggap kayo nang walang bayad, magbigay naman kayo nang walang bayad.” 

Reflection for Saturday June 17, Memorial of the Immaculate Heart of Mary: Luke 2:41-51

Gospel: Luke 2:41-51

Each year Jesus’ parents went to Jerusalem for the feast of Passover, and when he was twelve years old, they went up according to festival custom. After they had completed its days, as they were returning, the boy Jesus remained behind in Jerusalem, but his parents did not know it. 

Thinking that he was in the caravan, they journeyed for a day and looked for him among their relatives and acquaintances, but not finding him, they returned to Jerusalem to look for him. After three days they found him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the teachers, listening to them and asking them questions, and all who heard him were astounded at his understanding and his answers. 

When his parents saw him, they were astonished, and his mother said to him, “Son, why have you done this to us? Your father and I have been looking for you with great anxiety.” And he said to them, “Why were you looking for me? Did you not know that I must be in my Father’s house?” But they did not understand what he said to them. He went down with them and came to Nazareth, and was obedient to them; and his mother kept all these things in her heart.

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Reflection:

What breaks the heart of a mother? It is to see that her children are not successful in their own respective fields especially in their marriages.

Mary’s heart was also being torn to pieces as she discovered that her child Jesus was not with them as they return home to Nazareth. But the Blessed Mother trusted God and she surely prayed to God as well that they would be able to find Jesus.

Today we remember the Immaculate Heart of Mary. Immaculate means clean unsullied by any impurities that will make it unclean: that’s the heart of the Blessed Mother. However, her heart was not spared from sorrows, pains and apprehensions this was very vivid when she was at the foot of the cross crying and somberly looking up to his crucified and dying son.

However, amidst the sorrows; the Blessed Mother’s heart is also deeply humble and trusting to the will of God. She carried her sorrow with dignity and deep faith in God that’s why she quietly endured her sufferings until the death of Jesus on the cross.

For the mothers who carry their own sufferings may the Immaculate Heart of Mary be your own model of humility, trust and deep faith. Your sufferings may be caused by your children, by your husband or by a severe trial.

Never hesitate to ask the Blessed Mother to pray for you and to bring you closer to her son Jesus. – Marino j. Dasmarinas 

Ang Mabuting Balita sa Sabado Hunyo 17, Kalinis- linisang Puso ng Mahal na Birheng Maria: Lucas 2: 41-51

Mabuting Balita: Lucas 2: 41-51

Taun-taon tuwing pista ng Paskuwa, ang mga magulang ni Jesus ay pumupunta sa Jerusalem. At nang labindalawang taon na siya, pumaroon sila gaya ng dati nilang ginagawa. Pagkatapos ng pista, sila'y umuwi na. Nagpaiwan si Jesus sa Jerusalem ngunit hindi ito napansin ng kanyang mga magulang. 

Sa pag-aakala ng isa na si Jesus ay kasama ng isa, nagpatuloy sila sa maghapong paglalakbay. Nang malaman nilang hindi siya kasama, siya'y hinanap nila sa kanilang mga kamag-anak at kakilala. Hindi nila siya matagpuan, kaya't bumalik sila sa Jerusalem upang doon hanapin. At nang ikatlong araw, natagpuan nila si Jesus sa loob ng templo, nakaupong kasama ng mga guro. 

Nakikinig siya sa kanila at nagtatanong, at ang lahat ng nakarinig sa kanya ay namangha sa kanyang katalinuhan. Nagtaka rin ang kanyang mga magulang nang siya'y makita. Sinabi ng kanyang ina, "Anak, bakit naman ganyan ang ginawa mo sa amin? Balisang-balisa na kami ng iyong ama sa paghahanap sa iyo." Sumagot siya, "Bakit po ninyo ako hinahanap? Hindi ba ninyo alam na ako'y dapat na nasa bahay ng aking Ama?" Ngunit hindi nila nauunawaan ang pananalitang ito.

Siya'y umuwing kasama nila sa Nazaret, at naging isang masunuring anak. Ang lahat ng bagay na ito ay iningatan ng kanyang ina sa kanyang puso. 

Reflection for Friday June 16, Solemnity of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus: Matthew 11:25-30

Gospel: Matthew 11:25-30

At that time Jesus exclaimed: "I give praise to you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, for although you have hidden these things from the wise and the learned you have revealed them to little ones. Yes, Father, such has been your gracious will. All things have been handed over to me by my Father. 

No one knows the Son except the Father, and no one knows the Father except the Son and anyone to whom the Son wishes to reveal him. "Come to me, all you who labor and are burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am meek and humble of heart; and you will find rest for yourselves. For my yoke is easy, and my burden light."

Reflections:

Do you have a devotion to the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus?

Today is the Solemnity of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, through his Sacred Heart Jesus is telling us this: “Come to me, all you who labor and are burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am meek and humble of heart; and you will find rest for yourselves. For my yoke is easy, and my burden light." (Matthew 11:28-30)

Even if they were equal in stature Jesus always prayed to God the Father, Jesus always humbles Himself before God. A good question to ask ourselves: Do we always find time to pray to God to praise Him and thank Him? Do we always humble ourselves before God?

Sometimes there’s a tendency for us to forget God and be proud of our worldly achievements. For the reason that we have the education, power and money, we forget God and allow ourselves to be swept away from God by the temporal things of this world.  

Our earthly achievements and possessions may create a sense of security for us. However this is a big lie, no matter how learned we are, no matter how rich and powerful we are it will not guaranty our security and happiness in this world. For the simple reason that true happiness and security is only with Jesus.

On the latter part of the gospel Jesus invites us to come to Him for He will give us rest. Humbly come to Him by way of perpetually attending Holy Mass, humbly come to Him through the Sacrament of Confession/Reconciliation, and humbly come to Him through the Sacrament of Holy Communion.

The moment we sincerely accept Jesus’ invitation. We would truly find rest in Him and we will never have the feeling of emptiness because the Lord is already with us. – Marino J. Dasmarinas 

Inspirational Quotes and Words of Wisdom -19

 

Ang Mabuting Balita sa Biyernes Hunyo 16, Kamahal-mahalang puso ni Jesus: Mateo 11:25-30

Mabuting Balita: Mateo 11:25-30

Noong panahong iyon, sinabi ni Jesus, "Pinasasalamatan kita, Ama, Panginoon ng langit at lupa, sapagkat inilihim mo ang mga bagay na ito sa marurunong at matatalino at inihayag sa mga may kaloobang tulad ng sa bata. Oo, Ama, sapagkat gayon ang ikinalulugod mo.

"Ibinigay sa akin ng aking Ama ang lahat ng bagay. Walang nakakikilala sa Anak kundi ang Ama, at walang nakakikilala sa Ama kundi ang Anak at yaong marapating pagpahayagan ng Anak.

"Lumapit kayo sa akin, kayong lahat na napapagal at; nabibigatan sa inyong pasanin, at kayo'y pagpapahingahin ko. Pasanin ninyo ang aking pamatok, at mag-aral kayo sa akin; ako'y maamo at mababang-loob, at makasusumpong kayo ng kapahingahan para sa inyong kaluluwa. Sapagkat maginhawang dalhin ang aking pamatok, at magaan ang pasaning ibibigay ko sa inyo."

Mga Salita ng Puno ng Aral na iyong Matututunan - 21

 

Reflection for June 15, Thursday of the Tenth Week in Ordinary Time: Matthew 5:20-26

Gospel: Matthew 5:20-26

Jesus said to his disciples: “I tell you, unless your righteousness surpasses that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will not enter into the Kingdom of heaven.  

“You have heard that it was said to your ancestors, You shall not kill; and whoever kills will be liable to judgment. But I say to you, whoever is angry with his brother will be liable to judgment, and whoever says to his brother, Raqa, will be answerable to the Sanhedrin, and whoever says, ‘You fool,’ will be liable to fiery Gehenna.  

Therefore, if you bring your gift to the altar, and there recall that your brother has anything against you, leave your gift there at the altar, go first and be reconciled with your brother, and then come and offer your gift. Settle with your opponent quickly while on the way to court. Otherwise your opponent will hand you over to the judge, and the judge will hand you over to the guard, and you will be thrown into prison. Amen, I say to you, you will not be released until you have paid the last penny.”

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Reflection:

What is the antidote to sin or what could defeat sin or hatred? Its humility, forgiveness and love. For example, if you sin against your spouse the cure for this sin is to humble yourself before your spouse. You do this by  saying, I’m sorry for hurting you or  I’m sorry for betraying your trust.  

If your spouse loves you dearly you can expect forgiveness, the mitigating factor here is  your humility to admit your offense or sin. But not everyone is willing to say, I’m sorry for to admit one’s mistake or to say I’m sorry is one  of the hardest words to say. But if there’s humility in us we would not think twice to apologize for this will once again heal the relationship. 

But the paradox is, we are quick to sin yet we are not quick to apologize  or some are not even willing to apologize. And this lack of humility on our part creates bigger trouble/s in our married relationship or any other kind of relationship for that matter.  

In our gospel Jesus is teaching us about humility and to have the courage to admit our own mistakes or shortcomings (Matthew 5:23-25). Why? Because if we are willing to humble ourselves and if we have the courage to admit our own sinfulness. We therefore save ourselves from further trouble. But if we continue to be dominating and arrogant then trouble/s would always be with us. 

Would you be willing to humbly apologize to somebody whom you have offended? To reach out or to apologize is hard to do but it’s also a redemptive experience for it will set you free from the bondage of arrogance and the devil.  – Marino J. Dasmarinas

Ang Mabuting Balita sa Hunyo 15, Huwebes ng Ikasampung Linggo sa Karaniwang Panahon: Mateo 5:20-26

Mabuting Balita: Mateo 5:20-26

Noong panahong iyon, sinabi ni Hesus sa kanyang mga alagad, “Sinasabi ko sa inyo: kung ang pagsunod ninyo sa kalooban ng Diyos ay tulad lamang ng pagsunod ng mga eskriba at mga Pariseo, hindi kayo makapapasok sa kaharian ng Diyos.”  

“Narinig ninyo na noong una’y inutos sa mga tao, ‘Huwag kang papatay; ang sinumang makamatay ay mananagot sa hukuman.’ Ngunit ngayo’y sinasabi ko sa inyo: ang mapoot sa kanyang kapatid ay mananagot sa hukuman; ang humamak sa kanyang kapatid ay mananagot sa Sanedrin, at sinumang magsabi sa kanyang kapatid ‘ulol ka!’ ay mapapasaapoy ng impiyero.  

Kaya’t kung naghahandog ka sa Diyos, at maalaala mo na may sama ng loob sa iyo ang kapatid mo, iwan mo muna ang iyong handog sa harap ng dambana at makipagkasundo ka sa kanya. Saka ka magbalik at maghandog sa Diyos. 

“Kung may magsakdal laban sa iyo sa hukuman, makipag-ayos ka sa kanya habang may panahon, bago ka niya iharap sa hukom. At kung hindi’y ibibigay ka niya sa hukom, na magbibigay naman sa iyo ng tanod, at ikaw ay mabibilanggo. Sinasabi ko sa iyo: hindi ka makalalabas doon hangga’t hindi mo nababayaran ang kahuli-hulihang kusing.”

Reflection for June 14, Wednesday of the Tenth Week in Ordinary Time: Matthew 5:17-19

Gospel: Matthew 5:17-19

Jesus said to his disciples: “Do not think that I have come to abolish the law or the prophets. I have come not to abolish but to fulfill. Amen, I say to you, until heaven and earth pass away, not the smallest letter or the smallest part of a letter will pass from the law, until all things have taken place.   

Therefore, whoever breaks one of the least of these commandments and teaches others to do so will be called least in the Kingdom of heaven. But whoever obeys and teaches these commandments will be called greatest in the Kingdom of heaven.”

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Reflection:

Do you obey, teach and live the laws of the Lord?   

Jesus in our gospel for today speaks about Himself as the fulfillment of the law. In effect Jesus was telling the disciples I am now the fulfilment of those commandments from the Old Testament.   

For example, the Ten Commandments (Exodus 20:1-17) which God gave to Moses in the mountain of Sinai. Jesus summarized these ten to become the two greatest commandments which states: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment.  And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments (Matthew 22:37-40).”   

Jesus summarized the Ten Commandments thus it became the two greatest commandments of love. Indeed, if we really love Jesus there would be no room for hatred, condemnation, self-righteousness, bigotry and narrow-mindedness.   

What would remain in our hearts is love for love is the advocacy and language of Jesus. Jesus love for us is so unlike the love that we have. This is for the reason that Jesus’ love is not a selective kind of love but love for everyone of us no matter who we are.   

This is therefore the exercise of love that we have to emulate: To love everyone no matter if they don’t love us back and no matter the sins that they’ve committed against us. – Marino J. Dasmarinas  

Ang Mabuting Balita sa Hunyo 14, Miyerkules ng Ikasampung Linggo sa Karaniwang Panahon: Mateo 5:17-19

Mabuting Balita: Mateo 5:17-19

Noong panahong iyon, sinabi ni Jesus sa kanyang mga alagad, "Huwag ninyong akalaing naparito ako upang pawalang bisa ang Kautusan at ang aral ng mga propeta. Naparito ako, hindi upang pawalang-bisa kundi para ipaliwanag at ganapin ang mga iyon. 

Tandaan ninyo ito: magwawakas ang langit at ang lupa, ngunit ang kaliit-liitang bahagi ng Kautusan ay di mawawalan ng bisa hangga't hindi nagaganap ang lahat.   

Kaya't sinumang magpawalang-halaga kahit sa kaliit-liitang bahagi nito, at magturo nang gayon sa mga tao, ay ibibilang na pinakamababa sa kaharian ng Diyos. Ngunit ang gumaganap ng Kautusan at nagtuturo na tuparin iyon ay ibibilang na dakila sa kaharian ng Diyos."

Reflection for Tuesday June 13, Memorial of Saint Anthony of Padua, Priest and Doctor of the Church: Matthew 5:13-16

Gospel: Matthew 5:13-16

Jesus said to his disciples: “You are the salt of the earth. But if salt loses its taste, with what can it be seasoned? It is no longer good for anything but to be thrown out and trampled underfoot. 

You are the light of the world. A city set on a mountain cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and then put it under a bushel basket; it is set on a lampstand, where it gives light to all in the house. Just so, your light must shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your heavenly Father.

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Reflection:

A young doctor who topped the board exam was offered by a multinational pharmaceutical company to work for them. She was presented with a big signing bonus, offered a huge salary and to top it all was also offered further studies abroad. Yet she refused the very attractive financial windfall and benefits. 

When asked why? Her simple but very meaningful reply was this: I intend to go back to my home province and make a big positive impact in the lives of my poor province mates where I also belong once upon a time.  

Jesus in our gospel tells us: You are the salt of the earth and you are the light of the world (Matthew 5:13-14). What does it mean to become salt and light of this world? Salt defines the taste of food and light brings brightness and hope to a dark environment. 

We need to become that salt and light that Jesus mentions in the gospel. This simply means that we have to live a meaningful life in this world! A life that is not lived for oneself alone but a life to be lived for others most especially the poor. 

Often times we get to fixated on ourselves. We have this me first mentality everything that we do is for ourselves first. Then when the time comes that we are able to achieve our objectives and goals. We think now of giving back to our community, church and the poor. 

When Jesus said that you are the salt and light of this world. He did not say fulfill first your dreams to be successful and rich. After which you think now of giving back to your community, church and the poor. 

We need to become salt and light for others not tomorrow and certainly not in the future. We need to become salt and light in the lives of our fellowmen today, right now during this very moment. – Marino J. Dasmarinas

Ang Mabuting Balita sa Martes Hunyo 13, San Antonio de Padua, pari at pantas ng Simbahan (Paggunita): Marteo 5:13-16

Mabuting Balita: Mateo 5:13-16

Noong panahong iyon, sinabi ni Hesus sa kanyang mga alagad, “Kayo’y asin sa sanlibutan. Kung mawalan ng alat ang asin, paano pang mapananauli ang alat nito? Wala na itong kabuluhan kaya’t itinatapon na lamang at niyayapakan ng mga tao. 

“Kayo’y ilaw sa sanlibutan. Hindi maitatago ang isang lungsod na nakatayo sa ibabaw ng burol. Walang nagsisindi ng ilaw at naglalagay nito sa ilalim ng takalan. Sa halip ay inilalagay ito sa talagang patungan upang matanglawan ang lahat ng nasa bahay. 

Gayun din naman, dapat ninyong paliwanagin ang inyong ilaw sa harapan ng mga tao, upang makita nila ang inyong mabubuting gawa, at luwalhatiin ang inyong Amang nasa Langit.”

Reflection for June 12, Monday of the Tenth Week in Ordinary Time: Matthew 5:1-12

Gospel: Matthew 5:1-12

When Jesus saw the crowds, he went up the mountain, and after he had sat down, his disciples came to him. He began to teach them, saying: 

"Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the Kingdom of heaven. Blessed are they who mourn, for they will be comforted. Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the land. Blessed are they who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be satisfied. Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy. Blessed are the clean of heart, for they will see God. 

Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God. Blessed are they who are persecuted for the sake of righteousness, for theirs is the Kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when they insult you and persecute you and utter every kind of evil against you falsely because of me. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward will be great in heaven. Thus they persecuted the prophets who were before you."

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Reflection:

The story is told about a poor family. They were poor based on the standard of this world they live in a shanty, they wore tattered clothes yet they were happy. When they were asked on how come that they were happy in spite that they were materially poor the father said: “We follow Jesus, we subscribe to His teachings and He’s part of our family.  

After descending from the mountain Jesus sat down and taught those around Him about the Eight (8) blessings of the Beatitudes. What are these Beatitudes all about? It is the secret of true disciples for Christ. When Jesus told those around Him about these Beatitudes He was actually saying to them that this is how my life is in this world but don’t you all worry for I am happy in following all these. Jesus rejected the comforts of this world He never embraced it. 

The happiness of this world is extremely different from the happiness and fulfillment that Jesus offers us. He knew that what the world gives and dictates are nothing compared to what God would give Him. In effect, Jesus is telling us through these Beatitudes to be like Him, to follow Him to always be with Him for these are all His characteristics. 

But isn’t it hard to follow all these qualities of the Beatitudes? Isn’t it hard to follow Jesus?  Yes it’s hard for the simple reason that the life of Jesus in this world was full of hardship and persecution. However the hardship that Jesus went through was nothing compared to what was waiting for Him in heaven. 

Thus, our focus should always be heavenward never mind the present hardship that we may encounter. For it has a purpose which is to prepare us for our ascent to heaven someday. – Marino J. Dasmarinas 

Ang Mabuting Balita sa Hunyo 12, Lunes ng Ikasampung Linggo sa Karaniwang Panahon: Mateo 5:1-12

Mabuting Balita: Mateo 5:1-12

Noong panahong iyon, nang makita ni Jesus ang napakakapal na tao, umahon siya sa bundok. Pagkaupo niya'y lumapit ang kanyang mga alagad, at sila'y tinuruan ng ganito: "Mapalad ang mga aba na walang inaasahan kundi ang Diyos, sapagkat makakasama sila sa kanyang kaharian." 

"Mapalad ang mga nahahapis, sapagkat aaliwin sila ng Diyos." "Mapalad ang mga mapagpakumbaba, sapagkat tatamuhin nila ang ipinangako ng Diyos." "Mapalad ang mga nagmimithing makatupad sa kalooban ng Diyos, sapagkat ipagkakaloob sa kanila ang kanilang minimithi." 

"Mapalad ang mga mahabagin, sapagkat kahahabagan sila ng Diyos." "Mapalad ang mga may malinis na puso, sapagkat makikita nila ang Diyos." "Mapalad ang mga gumagawa ng daan sa ipagkakasundo, sapagkat sila'y ituturing ng Diyos na mga anak niya." 

"Mapalad ang mga pinag-uusig dahil sa kanilang pagsunod sa kalooban ng Diyos, sapagkat makakasama sila sa kanyang kaharian." "Mapalad kayo kapag dahil sa aki'y inaalimura kayo ng mga tao, pinag-uusig at pinagwiwikaan ng lahat ng uri ng kasamaan na pawang kasinungalingan. Magdiwang kayo at magalak, sapagkat malaki ang inyong gantimpala sa Langit."

Inspirational Quotes and Words of Wisdom -18

 

Mga Salita ng Puno ng Aral na iyong Matututunan - 20

 

Reflection for Sunday June 11, Solemnity of the Body and Blood of Christ: John 6:51-58

Gospel: John 6:51-58

Jesus said to the crowds: “I am the living bread that came down from heaven; whoever eats this bread will live forever; and the bread that I will give is my flesh for the life of the world.” The Jews quarreled among themselves, saying, “How can this man give us his flesh to eat?” 

Jesus said to them, “Amen, amen, I say to you, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his blood, you do not have life within you. Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life, and I will raise him on the last day. For my flesh is true food, and my blood is true drink.

Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood remains in me and I in him. Just as the living Father sent me and I have life because of the Father, so also the one who feeds on me will have life because of me. This is the bread that came down from heaven. Unlike your ancestors who ate and still died, whoever eats this bread will live forever.

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Reflection:   

The story is told about a drug addict who voluntarily submitted himself to a rehabilitation center. While in the center he was required to be present at Holy Mass everyday. Every Holy Mass this man would always partake of the Body of Christ and he would silently ask Jesus to heal and transform him. 

After six months of stay in the rehabilitation center the man was already free from addiction. When he was asked to whom he would attribute his successful healing and rehabilitation. He humbly said, to Jesus the living Bread of Life which I regularly received everyday for six months. 

Unlike regular bread that fills us and after a few hours make us hungry again. The living Bread of Life which we partake during Holy Communion fills and heals our emotional and spiritual hunger. And this healing is continuous for as long as we continue to reverently partake of the Body of Christ. 

Perhaps many will not believe that regular partaking of the Body of Christ would fill and heal our emotional and spiritual hunger. But if we try it and be humble and docile to the will of Jesus, we would also feel His transforming power working within us. 

Nevertheless at the end of the day our healing and transformation are still dependent on how docile and humble we are before God. The Lord in His infinite wisdom has given us the freedom to allow or not to allow the living Bread of Life to heal us. This is the reason why many of us who partake of the Body of Christ, are not healed or transformed, because we are not docile and humble before Jesus. 

If only we would learn to always be docile and humble. If only we would allow the will of God to direct our lives. Transformation and healing would also happen to us. – Marino J. Dasmarinas  

Ang Mabuting Balita para sa Linggo Hunyo 11, Dakilang Kapistahan ng Kabanal-banalang Katawan at Dugo ng Panginoon Juan 6:51-58

Mabuting Balita: Juan 6:51-58

Noong panahong iyon, sinabi ni Hesus sa mga tao: "Ako ang pagkaing nagbibigay-buhay na bumaba mula sa langit. At ang pagkaing ibibigay ko sa ikabubuhay ng sanlibutan ay ang aking laman." Dahil dito'y nagtalu-talo ang mga Judio. "Paanong maibibigay sa atin ng taong ito ang kanyang laman upang kanin natin?" tanong nila. 

Kaya't sinabi ni Jesus, "Tandaan ninyo: malibang kanin ninyo ang laman ng Anak ng Tao at inumin ang kanyang dugo, hindi kayo magkakaroon ng buhay. Ang kumakain ng aking laman at umiinom ng aking dugo ay may buhay na walang hanggan, at muli ko siyang bubuhayin sa huling araw. Sapagkat ang aking laman ay tunay na pagkain, at ang aking dugo, tunay na inumin. 

Ang kumakain ng aking laman at umiinom ng aking dugo ay nananahan sa akin, at ako sa kanya. Buhay ang Amang nagsugo sa akin, at ako'y nabubuhay dahil sa kanya. Gayon din naman, ang sinumang kumakain sa akin ay mabubuhay dahil sa akin. Ito ang pagkaing bumaba mula sa langit; ang kumakain nito'y mabubuhay magpakailanman. Hindi ito katulad ng kinain ng inyong mga magulang sa ilang; namatay sila bagamat kumain sila niyon."

Reflection for June 10, Saturday of the Ninth Week in Ordinary Time: Mark 12:38-44

Gospel: Mark 12:38-44

In the course of his teaching Jesus said to the crowds, "Beware of the scribes, who like to go around in long robes and accept greetings in the marketplaces, seats of honor in synagogues, and places of honor at banquets. They devour the houses of widows and, as a pretext recite lengthy prayers. They will receive a very severe condemnation." 

He sat down opposite the treasury and observed how the crowd put money into the treasury. Many rich people put in large sums. A poor widow also came and put in two small coins worth a few cents. 

Calling his disciples to himself, he said to them, "Amen, I say to you, this poor widow put in more than all the other contributors to the treasury. For they have all contributed from their surplus wealth, but she, from her poverty, has contributed all she had, her whole livelihood."

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Reflection:

The story is told about a rich man who suddenly died, when he was about to enter the heavenly gates. Jesus appeared before him and told him, you’re not destined to be here. The rich man said to Jesus, why my Lord? I regularly gave large amount of money to the church! I built many churches during my lifetime! I gave to the poor! The Lord said to him, Yes you did all of those things but you did it so that you would be praised and hailed as generous.    

In giving to the church or giving in general the best way to do it is to give from the heart and to give without anybody knowing it. We do not give out of our surplus and we don’t give because we want others to admire and praise us. 

The rich and powerful in our gospel who gave large amount of money to the treasury seems to be generous on the surface. But they are not for the reason that they gave from their surplus wealth or wealth that is not useful to them anymore. 

In contrast here is a poor and powerless widow who gave two small coins worth a few cents (Mark 12:42). This poor but truly generous widow gained the admiration of Jesus since she gave from her heart. The widow gave it all, no pretensions and no desire for earthly praise whatsoever. 

When we give to the church and when we give in general, let us give from our hearts. Let us not publicize our generosity and let us not seek praise and admiration in our giving. Let us also not count the cost of giving because what we give comes back to us in so many ways. 

When we are truly generous, we will not run out of things to give. In fact the more that we are truly generous the more that we would receive blessing from God. The more that we forget ourselves and our own needs for the welfare and need of others the more that Jesus would bless us. - Marino J. Dasmarinas     

Ang Mabuting Balita sa Hunyo 10, Sabado ng Ikasiyam na Linggo sa Karaniwang Panahon: Marcos 12:38-44

Mabuting Balita: Marcos 12:38-44

Noong panahong iyon sinabi ni Jesus sa kanyang pagtuturo, "Mag-ingat kayo sa mga eskriba na mahilig maglalakad nang may mahahabang kasuutan at natutuwang pagpugayan sa mga liwasan. Ang ibig nila'y ang mga tanging luklukan sa mga sinagoga, at mga upuang pandangal sa mga piging. Inuubos nila ang mga kabuhayan ng mga babaing balo, at ang sinasangkala'y ang pagdarasal ng mahaba! Lalo pang bibigat ang parusa sa kanila.!" 

Umupo si Jesus sa tapat ng hulugan ng mga kaloob doon sa templo, at pinagmasdan ang mga taong naghuhulog ng salapi. Maraming mayayamang naghulog ng malalaking halaga. Lumapit naman ang isang babaing balo at naghulog ng dalawang kusing na katumbas ng isang pera. 

Tinawag ni Jesus ang kanyang mga alagad at kanyang sinabi, "sinasabi ko sa inyo: ang dukhang balong iyon ay naghulog ng higit sa kanilang lahat. Sapagkat ang iba'y nagkaloob ng bahagi lamang ng hindi na nila kailangan, ngunit ibinigay ng balong ito na dukhang-dukha ang buo niyang ikabubuhay."

Reflection for June 9, Friday of the Ninth Week in Ordinary Time: Mark 12:35-37

Gospel: Mark 12:35-37

As Jesus was teaching in the temple area he said, “How do the scribes claim that the Christ is the son of David? David himself, inspired by the Holy Spirit, said: The Lord said to my lord,‘Sit at my right hand until I place your enemies under your feet.’ David himself calls him ‘lord’; so how is he his son?”The great crowd heard this with delight.

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Reflection:

Son of David, Messiah and Christ these three names have a common denominator one way or the other it means Savior. And who else is this savior? It’s none other than Jesus but unlike our common notion of a savior who comes in with swashbuckling powers ala avengers. Jesus our savior has none of their powers. 

His power is derived in His being powerless and His heroic action is not shown with swaggering super human exploits. It is rather shown in his humility and self-sacrifice. Let us reflect and ponder on the powerless Jesus on the cross and let us discover His power underneath it.  

During the time of Jesus, the scribes were Jewish scholars and teachers of the law they didn’t believe that Jesus was both human and divine. To them Jesus was only human and as they claim the human Jesus is the Son of David or descendant of King David. 

But David inspired by the Holy Spirit called Him Lord, Jesus was indirectly telling the Jews that if David called Him Lord. Then they should also believe in Him as the Son of God not as a son of David. 

There are many more who are not fully aware of Jesus’ humanity and divinity: we are therefore being challenged by the Lord to help Him spread His teachings. Would we help the Lord spread His teachings? – Marino J. Dasmarinas

Ang Mabuting Balita sa Hunyo 9, Biyernes ng Ikasiyam na Linggo sa Karaniwang Panahon: Marcos 12:35-37

Mabuting Balita: Marcos 12:35-37

Noong panahong iyon, samantalang nagtuturo si Jesus sa templo, sinabi niya, "Paanong masasabi ng mga eskriba na ang Mesias ay anak ni David? Si David na rin, nang kasihan ng Espiritu Santo, ang nagpahayag ng ganito: 

'Sinabi ng Panginoon sa aking Panginoon, maupo ka sa aking kanan, hanggang lubusan kong mapasuko sa iyo ang mga kaaway mo.' Si David na rin ang tumawag sa kanya ng Panginoon; paano magiging anak ni David ang Mesias?" At nakinig na mabuti sa kanya ang maraming tao.

Ang Mabuting Balita sa Hunyo 8, Huwebes ng Ikasiyam na Linggo sa Karaniwang Panahon: Marcos 12:28b-34

Mabuting Balita: Marcos 12:28-34

Noong panahong iyon, isa sa mga eskriba ay lumapit kay Jesus at nagtanong, "Alin pong utos ang pinakamahalaga?" Sumagot si Jesus, "Ito ang pinakamahalagang utos, 'Pakinggan mo, Israel! Ang Panginoon na ating Diyos -- siya lamang ang Panginoon. Ibigin mo ang Panginoon mong Diyos nang buong puso, nang buong kaluluwa, nang buong pag-iisip, at nang buong lakas.' 

Ito naman ang pangalawa, 'Ibigin mo ang iyong kapwa gaya ng iyong sarili.' Wala ng ibang utos na hihigit pa sa mga ito." Tama po, Guro!" wika ng eskriba. "Totoo ang sinabi ninyo. Iisa ang Diyos at wala nang iba liban sa kanya. At ang umiibig sa kanya nang buong puso, buong pag-iisip, at buong lakas, at ang umiibig sa kapwa gaya ng kanyang sarili ay higit na mahalaga kaysa magdala ng lahat ng handog na susunugin, at iba pang mga hain." 

Nakita ni Jesus na matalino ang kanyang sagot, kaya't sinabi niya, 'Malapit ka nang mapabilang sa pinaghaharian ng Diyos." At wala nang nangahas magtanong kay Jesus mula noon. 

Reflection for June 7, Wednesday of the Ninth Week in Ordinary Time: Mark 12:18-27

Gospel: Mark 12:18-27

Some Sadducees, who say there is no resurrection, came to Jesus and put this question to him, 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 and died, leaving no descendants. So the second brother married her and died, leaving no descendants and the third likewise. And the seven left no descendants. Last of all the woman also died. 

At the resurrection when they arise whose wife will she be? For all seven had been married to her.” Jesus said to them, “Are you not misled because you do not know the Scriptures or the power of God? When they rise from the dead, they neither marry nor are given in marriage, but they are like the angels in heaven. 

As for the dead being raised, have you not read in the Book of Moses, in the passage about the bush, how God told him, I am the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob? He is not God of the dead but of the living. You are greatly misled.”

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Reflection:

What is your idea of the afterlife? Jesus gives us a glimpse of what life is in the afterlife. He tells us that there’s no more human activity in heaven such as marriage for we all will be like angels there (Mark 12:25). But are we going to heaven after our lives are over and done with in this world?  Nobody is sure about this, only God knows where we would end up after we cease breathing. 

But on hindsight even if we don’t hold our destiny after our life is over we also have to do our part. We have to live our life pleasing to the eyes of the Lord and not pleasing to our own eyes.  What does it mean to make our lives pleasing to the eyes of God? We have to live the teachings of God and not the teachings of this world. 

If we decide to follow Jesus let us follow Him until the end of our lives. We should not allow sin or anything that contradicts the teachings of God to momentarily derail us. It must be authentic discipleship for Jesus all the way until we stop breathing! 

Let us therefore make it a part of our prayers to ask Jesus to bring us to heaven when our time comes. Let us ask Him to shower us His infinite mercy for we all have fell short of His expectations. – Marino J. Dasmarinas 

Ang Mabuting Balita sa Hunyo 7, Miyerkules ng Ikasiyam na Linggo sa Karaniwang Panahon: Marcos 12:18-27

Mabuting Balita: Marcos 12:18-27

Noong panahong iyon, may ilang Saduceo na lumapit kay Jesus. Ang Saduceo ay naninindigan na hindi 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 ng 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 na wala ring anak. Gayun din ang nangyari sa pangatlo at sa mga sumunod pa" isa-isang napangasawa ng babae ang pitong magkakapatid, at sila'y namatay na walang anak. 

Sa kahuli-huliha'y namatay rin ang babae. Ngayon, sino po sa pito ang kikilalanin niyang asawa sa muling pagkabuhay, yamang napangasawa silang lahat?" Sumagot si Jesus, "Maling-mali kayo. alam ninyo kung bakit? Hindi ninyo nababatid ang mga Kasulatan ni ang kapangyarihan ng Diyos. Sapagkat sa muling pagkabuhay, ang mga tao'y hindi na mag-aasawa; sila'y magiging tulad ng mga anghel sa langit. 

Tungkol naman sa muling pagkabuhay -- hindi pa ba ninyo nababasa sa aklat ni Moises ang tungkol sa nagliliyab na mababang punongkahoy? Ganito ang nasusulat na sinabi ng Diyos kay Moises. 'Ako ang Diyos ni Abraham, ang Diyos ni Isaac at ang Diyos ni Jacob.' Ngunit ang Diyos ay hindi Diyos ng mga patay, kundi ng mga buhay. Maling-mali kayo!"

Reflection for June 6, Tuesday of the Ninth Week in Ordinary Time: Mark 12:13-17

Gospel: Mark 12:13-17

Some Pharisees and Herodians were sent to Jesus to ensnare him in his speech. They came and said to him, “Teacher, we know that you are a truthful man and that you are not concerned with anyone’s opinion. You do not regard a person’s status but teach the way of God in accordance with the truth.

Is it lawful to pay the census tax to Caesar or not? Should we pay or should we not pay?” Knowing their hypocrisy he said to them, “Why are you testing me? Bring me a denarius to look at. They brought one to him and he said to them, “Whose image and inscription is this? They replied to him, “Caesar’s. So Jesus said to them “Repay to Caesar what belongs to Caesar and to God what belongs to God. They were utterly amazed at him.

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Reflection:

Do you always do what is right and just? The Pharisees and the Herodians were testing Jesus about the just payment of tax to Caesar. Jesus knew about their evil scheming so He simply told them, “Whose image is in the coin?” And they told Jesus that it was Caesar’s image that is imprinted on the coin. 

Thus, Jesus told them that they should pay to Caesar for the simple reason that he is the governing authority. And then Jesus told them to give to God what belongs to God (Mark 12:17). 

The million-dollar question now is, what belongs to God or what is for God? What belongs to God that we must give Him is the time that we have to freely give Him. Such as our daily time for prayer: upon waking up in the morning and before retiring at night. 

The weekly time that we have to freely give Him during Sundays at Holy Mass. And other forms of worship and service to our church and its people these we have to give to God as well. 

Then we may ask, what then would we receive in giving God what is due to God? We will receive peace of mind and we will be in heaven when our journey in this world comes to end. -  Marino J. Dasmarinas 

Ang Mabuting Balita sa Hunyo 6, Martes ng Ikasiyam na Linggo sa Karaniwang Panahon: Marcos 12:13-17

Mabuting Balita: Marcos 12:13-17

Noong panahong iyon, ilang Pariseo at ilang kampon ni Herodes ang pinapunta kay Jesus upang siluin siya sa kanyang pananalita. Lumapit sila sa kanya at ang sabi, "Guro nalalaman po naming kayo'y tapat at walang pinangingimian, sapagkat pareho ang pagtingin ninyo sa lahat ng tao. At itinuturo ninyo kung ano ang kalooban ng Diyos sa mga tao. 

Naaayon po ba sa Kautusan ang pagbabayad ng buwis sa Cesar? Dapat ba kaming bumuwis o hindi?" Ngunit batid ni Jesus na sila'y nagkukunwari, kaya't sinabi niya sa kanila, "Bakit ba ibig ninyo akong siluin? Bigyan ninyo ako ng isang denaryo. Titingnan ko." At kanilang binigyan siya. 

 "Kaninong larawan at pangalan ang nakaukit dito?" tanong ni Jesus. "Sa Cesar po," tugon nila. Sinabi ni Jesus, "Ibigay ninyo sa Cesar ang sa Cesar, at sa Diyos ang sa Diyos." At sila'y namangha sa kanya.

Reflection for Monday June 5, Saint Boniface, Bishop and Martyr (M): Mark 12:1-12

Gospel: Mark 12:1-12

Jesus began to speak to the chief priests, the scribes, and the elders in parables. “A man planted a vineyard, put a hedge around it, dug a wine press, and built a tower. Then he leased it to tenant farmers and left on a journey. At the proper time he sent a servant to the tenants to obtain from them some of the produce of the vineyard. 

But they seized him, beat him, and sent him away empty-handed. Again he sent them another servant. And that one they beat over the head and treated shamefully. He sent yet another whom they killed. So, too, many others; some they beat, others they killed. He had one other to send, a beloved son. He sent him to them last of all, thinking, ‘They will respect my son.’  

But those tenants said to one another, ‘This is the heir. Come, let us kill him, and the inheritance will be ours.’ So they seized him and killed him, and threw him out of the vineyard. What then will the owner of the vineyard do? He will come, put the tenants to death, and give the vineyard to others. Have you not read this Scripture passage: The stone that the builders rejected has become the cornerstone; by the Lord has this been done, and it is wonderful in our eyes?” 

They were seeking to arrest him, but they feared the crowd, for they realized that he had addressed the parable to them. So they left him and went away.

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Reflection:

The story told of a high and mighty government official who was asked by the people to resign from his post. For the reason that he engaged in high stakes corruption and abuse of authority. Instead of voluntarily resigning he clung to his post because according to him there is still much more money to be stolen in the coffers of his government office. 

Since he was not willing to resign he was investigated and was found guilty it resulted in the forfeiture of all his government benefits. This high government official was so greedy that it became the instrument for his disgrace. 

In our gospel the tenant farmers are the greedy characters, they were the religious leaders of Israel, they were not willing to give what was due to God which was represented by the owner of the vineyard. They killed all of the messengers (prophets) even the only begotten son of the owner they killed as well. At the end, because of their greed the tenant farmers were severely punished by the owner.   

It doesn’t pay to greedily amass immoral wealth and power. For whatever we have now that is born out of our greed will eventually be taken away from us. – Marino J. Dasmarinas

Ang Mabuting Balita sa Lunes Hunyo 5, San Bonifacio Obispo at martir (Paggunita): Marcos 12:1-12

Mabuting Balita: Marcos 12:1-12

Noong panahong iyon, nagsimulang magsalita si Hesus sa mga punong saserdote, mga eskriba, at matatanda ng bayan sa pamamagitan ng mga talinghaga. Sinabi niya, “May isang taong nagtanim ng ubas sa kanyang bukid, at binakuran niya ito. Humukay siya ng pisaan ng ubas, at nagtayo ng isang mataas na bantayan. Pagkatapos, iniwan niya ang ubasan sa mga kasama, at siya’y nagtungo sa ibang lupain. 

Nang dumating ang panahon ng pitasan, pinapunta niya ang isa niyang utusan upang kunin sa mga kasama ang kanyang kaparte. Ngunit sinunggaban ng mga kasama ang utusan, binugbog, at pinauwing walang dala. Ang may-ari’y nagpapunta uli ng ibang utusan, ngunit kanilang pinukpok ito sa ulo, at dinusta. Nag-utos na naman siya sa isa pa, ngunit pinatay nila ang utusang iyon. 

Gayun din ang ginawa nila sa marami pang iba: may binugbog at may pinatay. Iisa na lang ang natitira na maaaring papuntahin sa kanila – ang kanyang minamahal na anak. Ito ang kahuli-hulihang pinapunta niya. ‘Igagalang nila ang aking anak,’ wika niya sa sarili. Ngunit ang mga kasama’y nag-usap-usap, ‘Ito ang tagapagmana. Halikayo, patayin natin at nang mapasaatin ang kanyang mamanahin.’’ Kanilang sinunggaban siya, pinatay at itinapon sa labas ng ubasan. 

“Ano ngayon ang gagawin ng may-ari ng ubasan? Paroroon siya at papatayin ang mga kasamang iyon, at ang ubasa’y ibibigay sa iba. Hindi pa ba ninyo nababasa ang nasasaad sa Kasulatan? ‘Ang batong itinakwil ng mga tagapagtayo ng bahay ang siyang naging batong panulukan. 

Ginawa ito ng Panginoon, At ito’y kahanga-hanga!’” Tinangka ng mga pinuno ng mga Judio na dakpin si Hesus, sapagkat nahalata nilang sila ang pinatatamaan sa talinghagang iyon. Ngunit takot naman sila sa mga tao; kaya’t hindi nila siya inano at sila’y umalis.