Reflection for Thursday June 13 Memorial of Saint Anthony of Padua, Priest and Doctor of the Church: 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:

The story is told about a young man who was working as a houseboy, he was always being insulted by the family that he worked for. Name all the insulting words around and chances are that it could have been already hurled against him. Eventually the young man reached the limit of his patience so instead of doing something criminal to the family. He just walked away from them emotionally hurting and wounded.    

In the gospel Jesus reminds us to be careful with the words that we say for it can create a permanent wound in the emotions of our fellowmen. If the words that we will say are insulting it’s better not to say it. It’s better to simply be quite and let the anger be cured by time. 

Insulting words deeply hurts the receiver and it carves a permanent emotional wound in his/her being. But why do we say words that are not fit to be said? Why are we very quick to insult and belittle? This is primarily brought about by our arrogance, bloated egos and the feeling of superiority.  

What is the cure for this unhealthy behavior? The cure is Jesus, if we would follow Jesus and if we would allow Him to change us. He will cleanse us of our arrogance, egotism and feeling of superiority. – Marino J. Dasmarinas 

Ang Mabuting Balita Huwebes Hunyo 13, San Antonio de Padua, pari at pantas ng simbahan: 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 impiyerno.  

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 12 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:

What is life without Jesus? It’s barren, chaotic and without peace. What is life without following the laws of God? It’s the same as well.  Jesus comes into our lives to make it meaningful, peaceful and productive. Not meaningful, peaceful and productive in the eyes of our others but meaningful and productive in His eyes.   

When we break the laws of God we also distance ourselves from the love of Jesus. For example, if a politician shows in his public image that he is a follower of Jesus. He will not break the law by stealing money from the coffers of the government. 

He will not break the law of God by siding with those who espouse laws that violate the laws of God, such as the legalization of divorce, abortion, the death penalty, and the like. Otherwise, he is only using Jesus to serve his own hidden agenda. The same goes for a priest or man of God who professes to follow Jesus. He or she should not break the law by engaging in sexual or homosexual relationships. The same applies to married couples; they should be faithful to their vows until the end.

There’s always a reward that awaits those who follow the laws of God. And there’s always a reward that awaits those who follow Jesus and His commandments. It may not be the reward that we expect it to be but there would certainly be a reward. 

How about those who violate the law? The unwritten law of the universe will apply to them. - Marino J. Dasmarinas 

Ang Mabuting Balita Hunyo 12 Miyerkules sa Ikasampung Linggo ng 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 11 Memorial of Saint Barnabas, Apostle: 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:

In a far-flung place stood a school building that was not being utilized for so many years. The community within the school was hoping that one day a teacher would come and educate them. 

One morning the whole community was surprised because for the first time in so many years they heard the school bell rung loudly. So they excitedly went to their school building. There, they saw a nun who introduced herself to the community as their volunteer teacher. 

Every day the nun would patiently teach them and after a few months had passed many positive transformations occurred. They already know how to read and write, they learned how to be more respectful and helpful. And more importantly the community was taught about the existence and importance of God in their lives.    

After five years of teaching and seeing to it that the noble educational program will continue even without her  the nun was now set to leave them. And naturally everybody from that community was sad and many were crying. To assuage their feelings the nun promised to visit them once in a while. 

In today’s Gospel, Jesus tells us that we are the salt and light of the world. What does salt bring to our food? It defines and gives taste to our food. Light gives us hope; it eliminates darkness and hopelessness. 

 This we also have to do, we have to become salt and light to others. As salt gives taste we also have to give meaning to the lives of our fellowmen. As light eliminates hopelessness and darkness we also have to become the light in the lives of our fellowmen.  

Being salt and light in the lives of our others is not easy to do! Why? Because we would be disturb from our own comfort zones and we would be investing something from ourselves for us to make a positive difference in their lives. 

Nevertheless, everything will be worth it because our effort will bear fruit in the end, we may not see it in our own lifetime. But it will certainly bear much fruit. Why? Because we dared to obey Jesus voice in the gospel which tells us to become salt and light in the lives of our fellowmen.  

Have you already become salt and light to your fellowmen, to your family and to your church community? – Marino J. Dasmarinas 

Ang Mabuting Balita Martes Hunyo 11 San Bernabe, apostol (Paggunita): Mateo 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 10, 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:

A mentally challenged boy was always made fun of by his friends and relatives because he found it hard to follow simple instructions and to read and write. His relatives told him not to study anymore because it was just a waste of time and money. Thus, he was forced to stop, as a result, he wasn’t able to finish his elementary studies.

At that tender age, he knew that he was being looked down by those around him, so he meekly took their insults. What they didn’t know was that the boy had enormous faith in Jesus. Every night, he would be on his knees, praying and asking the Lord to guide and strengthen him, for he had nothing except Him.

After a few years this boy perseveringly continued his studies again and was able to finish college and he lived a modest life.

In today’s gospel Jesus gives us the Beatitudes and one of the Beatitude is: Blessed are the meek for they will inherit the land (Matthew 5:5). That blessing is for this mentally challenged boy who was blessed by the Lord. And it’s also for those who are meek who silently, humbly and perseveringly take the insults hurled towards them. – Marino J. Dasmarinas

Ang Mabuting Balita Hunyo 10 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."

Reflection for Sunday June 9, Tenth Sunday in Ordinary Time: Mark 3:20-35

Gospel: Mark 3:20-35

Jesus came home with his disciples. Again the crowd gathered, making it impossible for them even to eat. When his relatives heard of this they set out to seize him, for they said, "He is out of his mind." The scribes who had come from Jerusalem said, "He is possessed by Beelzebul," and "By the prince of demons he drives out demons."

Summoning them, he began to speak to them in parables, "How can Satan drive out Satan? If a kingdom is divided against itself, that kingdom cannot stand. And if a house is divided against itself, that house will not be able to stand. And if Satan has risen up against himself and is divided, he cannot stand; that is the end of him. 

But no one can enter a strong man's house to plunder his property unless he first ties up the strong man. Then he can plunder the house. Amen, I say to you, all sins and all blasphemies that people utter will be forgiven them. But whoever blasphemes against the Holy Spirit will never have forgiveness, but is guilty of an everlasting sin." For they had said, "He has an unclean spirit."

His mother and his brothers arrived. Standing outside they sent word to him and called him. A crowd seated around him told him, "Your mother and your brothers and your sisters are outside asking for you." But he said to them in reply, "Who are my mother and my brothers?" And looking around at those seated in the circle he said, "Here are my mother and my brothers. For whoever does the will of God is my brother and sister and mother."

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Reflection:

What are the consequences that we would receive after we sin? There are many, foremost among these is the control of Satan over us. This is why we keep on sinning until we become numb to committing sin. 

Thus, sinning becomes a lifestyle, an ordinary act for many. However, what many of us don’t realize is that our numbness towards sin becomes an instrument leading to problem-filled and dysfunctional lives.

In the gospel, Jesus is accused by the scribes of being under the control of Beelzebul, the prince of demons. Why were they accusing Jesus of being part of Beelzebul's team? Because Jesus was casting out demons from people who were possessed. By casting out demons, the power of Jesus over Satan and Beelzebul was revealed.

Sin is the most effective instrument of Satan to bring people to hell, even while they are still living in this world. This is primarily why Satan wants people to sin, but Satan is no match for Jesus because Satan cowers in fear the moment he hears the powerful name of Jesus.

Many are living in sin right now, leading meaningless lives without clear direction because they have decided to embrace Satan and his many sinful offerings. For those who continue to sin, be assured that the time of retribution will surely come.

For those who will decide to permanently walk away from Satan and his sinful offerings. For those who will decide to embrace the light of enlightenment being constantly offered by Jesus they will begin to live peaceful and meaningful lives. – Marino J. Dasmarinas 

Ang Mabuting Balita Linggo Hunyo 9 Ikasampung Linggo sa Karaniwang Panahon: Marcos 3:20-35

Mabuting Balita: Marcos 3:20-35

Pag-uwi ni Jesus, muling nagkatipon ang napakaraming tao, anupa't hindi man lamang makuhang kumain ni Jesus at ng kanyang mga alagad. Nang mabalitaan ito ng kanyang mga mga kasambahay, sila'y pumaroon upang kaunin siya, sapagkat ang sabi ng mga tao, "Nasisiraan siya ng bait!"

Sinabi naman ng mga eskribang dumating mula sa Jerusalem, "Inaalihan siya ni Beelzebul, ang prinsipe ng mga demonyo. Ito ang nagbigay sa kanya ng kapangyarihang magpalayas ng mga demonyo!" Kaya't pinalapit ni Jesus ang mga tao at sinabi sa kanila ang talinghaga: "Paano mangyayaring palayasin ni Satanas si Satanas?" 

Kapag naglaban-laban ang nasasakupan ng isang kaharian, hindi mananatili ang kahariang iyon. At kapag naglaban-laban ang magkakasambahay, hindi mananatili ang sambahayang iyon. Gayon din naman, kapag naghimagsik si Satanas laban sa kanyang sarili at naglaban-laban ang kanyang nasasakupan, hindi magtatagal at darating ang kanyang wakas. "Walang makapapasok sa bahay ng isang taong iyon. Saka pa lamang niya malolooban ang bahay na iyon.

"Tandaan ninyo ito: maaaring ipatawad sa mga tao ang lahat ng kasalanan at panlalait nila sa Diyos, ngunit ang sinumang lumait sa Espiritu Santo ay hindi mapapatawad. ang kanyang kasalanan ay hindi mapapawi kailanman." Sinabi ito ni Jesus sapagkat ang sabi ng ilan, "Inaalihan siya ng masamang espiritu."

Dumating ang ina at mga kapatid ni Jesus. Sila'y nasa labas ng bahay at ipinatawag siya. Noon nama'y maraming taong nakaupo sa palibot ni Jesus, at may nagsabi sa kanya, "Nariyan po sa labas ang inyong ina at mga kapatid; ipinatatawag kayo." Sino ang aking ina at mga kapatid?" ani Jesus. Tumingin siya sa mga nakaupo sa palibot niya at nagwika: "Ito ang aking ina at mga kapatid! Sapagkat ang sinumang tumatalima sa kalooban ng Diyos, ay siya kong ina at mga kapatid."

Reflection for Saturday June 8 Memorial of the Immaculate Heart of the Blessed Virgin 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:

Mario was a good son and the sole provider to his siblings and parents. One day he said to his parents that he will get married, both parents were speechless and in shock. Being both retired they were full of trepidation they were silently asking themselves: Who will provide for us now?    

Just like in that short story, sometimes we make arbitrary actions that hurt and give apprehension to our relatives. They may not directly say their apprehensions because they deeply respect our independence but deep in their hearts they are anxious.   

This must be the feeling of both Joseph and Mary when Jesus purposely remained behind in Jerusalem. So they went back to Jerusalem full of anxiety and many thoughts were already running in their minds. After three days they found Jesus safe and sound in the temple intently listening to the lectures and asking questions. 

At the young age of twelve, Jesus already felt the need to hear the words of God in the temple. It was not an issue for Him if He was left behind by His parents and other companions, as long as He could be in the house of God. 

Don’t we also feel this urgency to hear God’s words in the celebration of the Holy Mass? The boy Jesus points us to the fact that we too must have this great need to hear the words of God and share it afterwards. 

We must find time to listen to the words of God. Being busy with our earthly concerns is not an excuse; we must find time for God. If we can’t go to church for Holy Mass, we can open the Bible and read it solemnly, for God speaks to us through His words in the Bible. 

Do you find time for God amidst your busy schedule? – Marino J. Dasmarinas

Ang Mabuting Balita Sabado Hunyo 8 Kalinis-linisang Puso ng Birheng Maria (Paggunita): 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 7 Solemnity of Most Sacred Heart of Jesus: John 19:31-37

Gospel: John 19:31-37

Since it was preparation day, in order that the bodies might not remain on the cross on the sabbath, for the sabbath day of that week was a solemn one, the Jews asked Pilate that their legs be broken and they be taken down. So the soldiers came and broke the legs of the first and then of the other one who was crucified with Jesus.

But when they came to Jesus and saw that he was already dead, they did not break his legs, but one soldier thrust his lance into his side, and immediately blood and water flowed out. An eyewitness has testified, and his testimony is true; he knows that he is speaking the truth, so that you also may come to believe. 

For this happened so that the Scripture passage might be fulfilled: Not a bone of it will be broken. And again another passage says: They will look upon him whom they have pierced.

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Reflection:

Imagine seeing the lifeless Jesus on the cross. How does it move you? Imagine seeing the lifeless Jesus on the cross being brutally pierced by a lance that reached deep into his Sacred Heart. How does it move you? Let us never forget the sacrifice of Jesus for us, let us never forget that He gave His very life for us. 

Many have forgotten and mocked the supreme sacrifice of Jesus on the cross in exchange for this world. Where are they now? What happened to their lives? Many are despising Jesus as irrelevant and fit to be relegated into the dustbin of history. What is presently happening in their lives now?

We must never forget that Jesus gave His life for us. We must never forget that God gave His only begotten Son so that we may live and have life. Are we among those who never forget the many sacrifices of Jesus? 

Those who always pray to Jesus and are devoted to the Sacred Heart of the Lord are constantly being blessed by Him and His Sacred Heart. – Marino  J. Dasmarinas

Ang Mabuting Balita Biyernes Hunyo 7 Kamahal-mahalang Puso ni Hesus (Dakilang Kapistahan): Juan 19:31-37

Mabuting Balita: Juan 19:31-37

Noo'y araw ng Paghahanda, at ayaw ng mga Judio na manatili sa krus ang bangkay sa Araw ng Pamamahinga sapagkat dakila ang Araw ng Pamamahingang ito. Kaya't hiniling nila kay Pilato na ipabali nito ang mga binti ng mga ipinako sa krus, at alisin doon ang mga bangkay. 

Naparoon nga ang mga kawal at binali ang mga binti ng dalawang ipinakong kasabay ni Jesus.Ngunit pagdating nila kay Jesus at makitang patay na siya, hindi na nila binali ang kanyang binti. Subalit inulos ng sibat ng isa sa mga kawal ang tagiliran ni Jesus, at biglang dumaloy ang dugo at tubig. 

Ang nakakita nito ang nagpapatotoo -- tunay ang kanyang patotoo at alam niyang katotohanan ang sinabi niya -- upang kayo'y maniwala. Nangyari ang mga ito upang matupad ang sinasabi ng Kasulatan, "Walang mababali isa man sa kanyang mga buto." At sinabi naman ng ibang bahagi ng Kasulatan, "Pagmamasdan nila ang kanilang inulos."

Reflection for Wednesday June 5 Memorial of Saint Boniface, Bishop and Martyr: 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:

Is there an afterlife or resurrection after our life in this world is over? There is but it's very different from the life that we have right now. 

In the gospel a religious group who do not believe in the resurrection asked Jesus about a woman who married seven brothers that subsequently died one after the other. They asked Jesus, whose wife would she be in the afterlife? 

 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. 

The resurrected life with Jesus in heaven is totally different from the life that we have right now. If here we have pains and sorrows there shall be no more there, what we shall have there is a life with Jesus that is blissful and heavenly. We must aspire for that heavenly life and we must start right now by following the teachings of Jesus. 

Do you follow the teachings of the Lord? – Marino J. Dasmarinas 

Ang Mabuting Balita Miyerkules Hunyo 5, San Bonifacio obispo at martir (Pagginita): Marcos 12:18-27

Mabuting Balita: Marcos 12:18-27

Noong panahong iyon, may ilang Saduseo na lumapit kay Jesus. Ang mga Saduseo ay naninindigan na hindi muling bubuhayin ang mga patay. "Guro," anila, "naglagda po si Moises ng ganitong batas para sa amin: 'Kung mamamatay ang isang lalaki at maiwang walang anak ang kanyang asawa, ang kapatid ng lalaki'y dapat pakasal sa balo upang magka-anak 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. Gayon rin ang nangyari sa pangatlo at sa mga sumunod pa: isa-isang napangasawa ng babae ang pitong magkakapatid, at sila'y namatay ng walang anak. 

Sa kahuli-huliha'y namatay rin ang babae. Ngayon, sino po sa pito ang kikilalanin niyang asawa sa muling pagkabuhay, yamang napangasawa niya 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 nagiging 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 4 Tuesday of the Ninth Week of 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:

What is our obligation to Jesus? Our obligation is to follow His teachings. And as stated by Jesus in the gospel paying the rightful tax to the government is one of them. We disobey Jesus when we don’t pay the taxes due to the government. 

The question of paying the census tax had a deeper meaning for it was created to trap Jesus. However, Jesus was able to wiggle out of this complicated situation. This is the reason why at the end of the gospel the emissaries of Jesus’ opponents were utterly amazed at Him (Mark 12:17). 

As shown in the gospel, Jesus always makes a way out, even when there seems to be no way. He will always make things possible for us too, even if they seem impossible, because He is always there to help us solve our problems, no matter how complicated they may seem.

Where are you in your life right now? Are you in a predicament where you think that you’re about to surrender to your problems? Call on Jesus and pray to Him. He is there just a prayer away, ever ready to help you extricate yourself out of your problem. – Marino J. Dasmarinas 

Ang Mabuting Balita Hunyo 4 Martes sa Ikasiyam na Linggo ng 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 Hesus 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 Hesus 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 Hesus. “Sa Cesar po,” tugon nila. Sinabi ni Hesus, “Ibigay ninyo sa Cesar ang sa Cesar, at sa Diyos ang sa Diyos.” At sila’y namangha sa kanya.

Reflection for Monday June 3, Memorial of Saint Charles Lwanga and companions, martyrs: 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:

A wealthy woman suddenly died without leaving a last will and testament. Instead of talking thing out and amicably settling the issue about her wealth the relatives were now wrangling as to who would get the biggest chunk of wealth.  Why were they squabbling about her wealth?  Because all of them were greedy nobody wants to give an inch on the wealth that they would have. 

Many families are like this, they were once living in peace and unity until the issue of wealth divided them. What can we gain with material wealth? It’s temporal riches that may fly from our hands anytime! Why is it that some of us are willing to sacrifice blood relationship for wealth? The simple answer is our greed! 

In our gospel for this Monday Jesus gives us a story that mirrors greed for wealth. Wealth that is temporary, wealth that we will not be able to bring us to the next life. And wealth that has been the cause of many conflicts in the family.

Instead of being greedy, why not be generous? Instead of holding on to wealth, why not give some of it away or give it all away? The rewards are unfathomable for those who would not hold on to their wealth. It may not be in this finite world but it surely will come to them when they are not anymore in this world.   

Would you be generous with your wealth? – Marino J. Dasmarinas                 

Ang Mabuting Balita para sa Lunes Hunyo 3 San Carlos Lwanga at mga kasama, mga 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.

Reflection for Sunday June 2, The Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ (Corpus Christi): Mark 14:12-16, 22-26

Gospel: Mark 14:12-16, 22-26

On the first day of the Feast of Unleavened Bread, when they sacrificed the Passover lamb, Jesus’ disciples said to him, "Where do you want us to go and prepare for you to eat the Passover?" He sent two of his disciples and said to them, "Go into the city and a man will meet you, carrying a jar of water. Follow him. 

Wherever he enters, say to the master of the house, 'The Teacher says, "Where is my guest room where I may eat the Passover with my disciples? Then he will show you a large upper room furnished and ready. Make the preparations for us there. The disciples then went off, entered the city and found it just as he had told them; and they prepared the Passover.

While they were eating, he took bread, said the blessing, broke it, gave it to them, and said, "Take it; this is my body. Then he took a cup, gave thanks, and gave it to them, and they all drank from it. 

He said to them, "This is my blood of the covenant, which will be shed for many. Amen, I say to you, I shall not drink again the fruit of the vine until the day when I drink it new in the kingdom of God. Then, after singing a hymn, they went out to the Mount of Olives.

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 Reflection:

Are you ready to fulfill your mission in the vineyard of the Lord? 

Before the institution of the Eucharist took place, there were two men who became instrumental in the celebration of the Last Supper of the Lord.

The first is the man carrying a jar of water, Jesus told the disciples that the moment they see this man they have to follow him because he will lead them to the house where the last supper would be celebrated. And so, it happened, they saw this man and he led them to the house of the Last Supper.

The second man is the one in charge of the house where the Last Supper is to be held. This man ushered the disciples to the upper room. While there, they saw that it was furnished and ready for the commemoration of the Passover meal. Hence, they called the Lord, and they all went to the upper room, where they ate their Passover meal which is the Last Supper.

These two men played crucial roles in the Last Supper, for without them, the Last Supper might not have been held there. But the two men were present, and they made life easier for the disciples and for the Lord as well.

We all play crucial roles in the advancement of the mission of the Lord. Some of us may think that the roles we play are insignificant. But they're not; every role we play in the vineyard of the Lord is very important and significant.

What is the important role that you play in the vineyard of the Lord? – Marino J. Dasmarinas 

Ang Mabuting Balita para Linggo Hunyo 2 Dakilang Kapistahan ng Katawan at Dugo ni Kristo: Marcos 14:12-16, 22-26

Mabuting Balita: Marcos 14:12-16, 22-26

Unang araw ng Pista ng Tinapay na Walang Lebadura, araw ng pagpatay sa kordero para sa Paskuwa. Tinanong si Jesus ng kanyang mga alagad, "Saan po ninyo ibig na ipaghanda namin kayo ng Hapunang Pampaskuwa?" Inutusan niya ang dalawa sa kanyang mga alagad, "Pumunta kayo sa bayan. May masasalubong kayo na isang lalaki na may dalang isang bangang tubig.  

Sundan ninyo siya sa bahay na kanyang napasukan sabihin ninyo sa may-ari, 'Ipinatatanong po ng Guro kung saang silid siya maaaring kumain ng Hapunang Pampaskuwa, kasalo ang kanyang mga alagad.' At ituturo niya sa inyo ang isang malaking silid sa itaas na mayroon nang kagamitan. Doon kayo maghanda para sa atin." Nagtungo sa bayan ang mga alagad at natagpuan nga nila roon ang lahat, gaya ng sinabi niya sa kanila. At inihanda nia ang Hapunang Pampaskuwa.  

Samantalang sila'y kumakain, dumampot ng tinapay si Jesus, at matapos magpasalamat sa Diyos ay kanyang pinagpira-piraso at ibinigay sa mga alagad. "Kunin ninyo; ito ang aking katawan," wika niya. Hinawakan niya ang saro, at matapos magpasalamat ay ibinigay sa kanila; at uminom silang lahat. Sinabi niya, "Ito ang aking dugo ng tipan, ang dugong mabubuhos para sa marami. 

Sinasabi ko sa inyo, hindi na ako iinom ng alak na mula sa ubas hanggang sa araw na inumin ko ang bagong alak sa kaharian ng Diyos." Umawit sila ng isang imno, at pagkatapos nagtungo sa Bundok ng mga Olibo.

Reflection for Saturday June 1 Memorial of Saint Justin, Martyr: Mark 11:27-33

Gospel: Mark 11:27-33

Jesus and his disciples returned once more to Jerusalem. As he was walking in the temple area, the chief priests, the scribes, and the elders approached him and said to him, “By what authority are you doing these things? Or who gave you this authority to do them?” Jesus said to them, “I shall ask you one question. 

Answer me, and I will tell you by what authority I do these things. Was John’s baptism of heavenly or of human origin? Answer me.” They discussed this among themselves and said, “If we say, ‘Of heavenly origin,’ he will say, ‘Then why did you not believe him?’ 

But shall we say, ‘Of human origin’?”– they feared the crowd, for they all thought John really was a prophet. So they said to Jesus in reply, “We do not know.” Then Jesus said to them, “Neither shall I tell you by what authority I do these things.”

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Reflection:

Who are the chief priests, the scribes, and the elders? 

They are persons of authority they are all highly valued and listened by their community. Jesus was actually no match to them in stature for He is just an ordinary Jew and a carpenter. That’s why they’ve asked Him: “By what authority are you doing these things? 

What was their motivation in asking Jesus about His authority? Of course their motivation was envy and greed for power because they were slowly being threatened by the growing popularity of Jesus.  Otherwise if they were not envious and greedy they would have not asked Jesus about His authority. This same envy and greed for power drove them to plot the killing of Jesus. 

We too are often times envious of those who succeed, those who are more popular than us. Why do we allow ourselves to be eaten up by this negative emotion called envy? Instead of feeling envious why not simply be happy for those people who succeed? – Marino J. Dasmarinas 

Ang Mabuting Balita Sabado Hunyo 1 San Justino, martir (Paggunita): Marcos 11:27-33

Mabuting Balita: Marcos 11:27-33

Noong panahong iyon, pumunta na naman si Hesus at ang mga alagad sa Jerusalem. Samantalang si Hesus ay naglalakad sa templo, nilapitan siya ng mga punong saserdote, ng mga eskriba, at ng matatanda ng bayan. Tinanong siya, “Ano ang karapatan mong gumawa ng mga bagay na ito? Sino ang nagbigay sa iyo ng karapatang ito?”  

Sumagot si Hesus, “Tatanungin ko rin kayo. Pag sinagot ninyo ako, saka ko naman sasabihin sa inyo kung ano ang karapatan kong gumawa ng mga bagay na ito. Kanino nagmula ang karapatan ni Juan upang magbinyag – sa Diyos ba o sa mga tao?” At sila’y nag-usap-usap: “Kung sabihin nating mula sa Diyos, itatanong naman niya sa atin, ‘Bakit hindi ninyo siya pinaniwalaan?’ 

Ngunit kung sabihin nating mula sa tao,” natatakot naman sila at baka kung ano ang gawin sa kanila ng mga tao, sapagkat kinikilala ng lahat na si Juan ay isang propeta. Kaya’t sumagot sila kay Hesus, “Hindi namin alam!” Sinabi ni Hesus sa kanila, “Hindi ko rin sasabihin sa inyo kung ano ang karapatan kong gumawa ng mga ginawa ko.”

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

Gospel: Luke 1:39-56

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

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

And Mary said: "My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord; my spirit rejoices in God my Savior for he has looked with favor on his lowly servant. From this day all generations will call me blessed: the Almighty has done great things for me and holy is his Name. He has mercy on those who fear him in every generation. He has shown the strength of his arm, and has scattered the proud in their conceit. 

He has cast down the mighty from their thrones, and has lifted up the lowly. He has filled the hungry with good things, and the rich he has sent away empty. He has come to the help of his servant Israel for he has remembered his promise of mercy, the promise he made to our fathers, to Abraham and his children forever."  

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

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Reflection:

Why did Mary remain with her cousin Elizabeth for three months? 

The gospel for today tells us that the blessed Mother stayed with her cousin Elizabeth for three months.  Why three months? Why not one month or two months instead? Three months because the Blessed Mother ensured first that she would be with her cousin Elizabeth until she gives birth to her son John. This is the reason why the Blessed Mother was with her cousin for three months. 

Considering that she was also pregnant during that time Mary could have decided to just stay with her for a month. Then go home so that she could also prepare for the birth of her son Jesus. But she chose to be with Elizabeth until she gave birth. This is how compassionate, loving and selfless is the blessed Mother. 

We live now in a world driven by busyness and time, for the majority of us time is gold and surely we want to use majority of our time to earn a living or money.  But the Blessed Mother is telling us to use our time not only to earn a living. We also have to use our time to touch lives. To help those who are in need in that process we also silently bring Jesus to them. – Marino J. Dasmarinas