Reflection for June 2 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 we always do what is right and just?

The Pharisees and the Herodians tested Jesus regarding the just payment of taxes to Caesar. Knowing their evil intentions, Jesus simply asked them, “Whose image is on the coin?” They answered that it bore Caesar’s image.

Jesus then told them to give to Caesar what belonged to Caesar because he was the governing authority. More importantly, He said, “Give to God what belongs to God” (Mark 12:17). This leads us to an important question: What belongs to God? What is due to Him from us?

What belongs to God is the time that we freely and lovingly offer to Him. We give Him our daily moments of prayer when we wake up in the morning and before we retire at night. We give Him our worship and thanksgiving when we participate in Holy Mass on Sundays. We also give Him our acts of service, kindness, generosity, and commitment to the Church and to our brothers and sisters in need.

Everything we have comes from God. Our life, our talents, our blessings, our opportunities, and even the very breath we take each day are gifts from His loving hands. Therefore, it is only right and just that we give back to Him our love, gratitude, trust, and faithful obedience.

At times, we may think that giving our time and attention to God is a sacrifice. Yet when we give God what is due to Him, we never become poorer. Instead, He fills our hearts with His peace, strengthens us in our struggles, guides us through life's uncertainties, and assures us of His loving presence. Most importantly, He gives us the hope of eternal life with Him when our earthly journey comes to an end.

Let us examine our hearts. Are we merely giving God what is left over after everything else has claimed our time and attention, or are we truly giving Him what rightfully belongs to Him—our wholehearted love, faithful worship, and willing obedience?

May we have the courage to give to God not only a portion of our lives but our very selves. For if everything we are and everything we have comes from Him, are we truly giving back to God what belongs to God?

What is one area of our life that we have been withholding from God, and are we willing to surrender it to Him so that He may reign more fully in our hearts?—Marino J. Dasmarinas  

Ang Mabuting Balita at Repleksyon Hunyo 2 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 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.

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Repleksyon:

Palagi ba nating ginagawa ang tama at matuwid?

Sinubok ng mga Pariseo at mga Herodiano si Jesus tungkol sa makatarungang pagbabayad ng buwis kay Cesar. Alam ni Jesus ang kanilang masasamang balak kaya't tinanong Niya sila, “Kaninong larawan ang nakaukit sa baryang ito?” Sumagot sila na larawan iyon ni Cesar.

Dahil dito, sinabi ni Jesus na ibigay kay Cesar ang nararapat para kay Cesar sapagkat siya ang namumunong awtoridad. Ngunit higit pa rito, sinabi rin Niya, “Ibigay ninyo sa Diyos ang nauukol sa Diyos”(Marcos 12:17).

Nagbibigay ito sa atin ng isang mahalagang tanong: Ano nga ba ang nauukol sa Diyos? Ano ang nararapat nating ibigay sa Kanya?

Ang nauukol sa Diyos ay ang oras na kusang-loob at buong pagmamahal nating iniaalay sa Kanya. Ibinibigay natin sa Kanya ang ating oras ng pananalangin sa pagsisimula ng bawat umaga at bago tayo magpahinga sa gabi.

Iniaalay natin sa Kanya ang ating pagsamba at pasasalamat tuwing Linggo sa Banal na Misa. Gayundin, ang ating paglilingkod, kabutihan, pagkakawanggawa, at pakikiisa sa Simbahan at sa ating kapwa ay mga handog na nararapat nating ibigay sa Diyos.

Ang lahat ng mayroon tayo ay nagmumula sa Kanya. Ang ating buhay, mga talento, mga biyaya, mga pagkakataon, at maging ang bawat hiningang ating tinatanggap araw-araw ay kaloob ng Kanyang mapagmahal na kamay. Kaya't makatarungan lamang na suklian natin ang Kanyang kabutihan sa pamamagitan ng ating pagmamahal, pasasalamat, pagtitiwala, at tapat na pagsunod.

Minsan, maaaring isipin natin na ang pagbibigay ng ating oras at atensyon sa Diyos ay isang sakripisyo. Ngunit kapag ibinibigay natin sa Diyos ang nararapat para sa Kanya, hindi tayo nawawalan. Sa halip, pinupuno Niya ang ating puso ng kapayapaan, pinalalakas tayo sa gitna ng mga pagsubok, ginagabayan tayo sa mga hindi tiyak na landas ng buhay, at tinitiyak sa atin ang Kanyang mapagmahal na presensya. Higit sa lahat, binibigyan Niya tayo ng pag-asa sa buhay na walang hanggan kapag natapos na ang ating paglalakbay sa mundong ito.

Kaya't suriin natin ang ating mga puso. Ibinibigay ba natin sa Diyos ang natitirang oras lamang matapos nating paglaanan ng pansin ang lahat ng ibang bagay, o tunay ba nating ibinibigay sa Kanya ang nararapat Niyang matanggap—ang ating buong pagmamahal, tapat na pagsamba, at kusang-loob na pagsunod?

Nawa'y magkaroon tayo ng lakas ng loob na ialay sa Diyos hindi lamang ang bahagi ng ating buhay kundi ang ating buong sarili. Sapagkat kung ang lahat ng tayo ay mayroon at ang lahat ng tayo ay tinatamasa ay mula sa Kanya, hindi ba't nararapat lamang na ibalik natin sa Kanya ang nauukol sa Kanya?

Ano ang bahagi ng ating buhay na hanggang ngayon ay ipinagkakait pa natin sa Diyos? Handa na ba tayong isuko ito sa Kanya upang Siya ang higit na maghari sa ating puso, o patuloy pa rin ba nating hahawakan ang bagay na dapat ay matagal na nating ipinagkatiwala sa Kanya? —Marino J. Dasmarinas

Reflection for Monday June 1 Memorial of Saint Justin, Martyr: 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:

Do we realize that everything we have right now is not truly ours? Everything we possess ultimately belongs to God. He has lovingly entrusted these blessings to us. We may have worked hard for them, but behind every opportunity, every achievement, and every blessing is the gracious hand of God. Without His guidance, protection, and provision, we would not be where we are today.

It is not through our efforts alone that we have achieved success. It is God who has enabled us to grow, prosper, and accomplish the things we enjoy today. Every good thing we have is a gift from Him. The question we must honestly ask ourselves is this: What have we given back to the Lord in return?

In our Gospel, Jesus tells the parable of a landowner who carefully prepared his vineyard and leased it to tenants. The tenants enjoyed the fruits of the vineyard and benefited from all the work that the owner had already done for them.

The vineyard represents Israel, and the tenant farmers represent the religious leaders of Israel. The owner of the vineyard is God. The servants are His messengers, representing the prophets, and the beloved son is none other than Jesus Himself.

When harvest time came, the owner naturally asked for his share of the produce. But the tenants became so greedy and self-centered that they refused to give him what was due. Instead, they mistreated and killed his servants and even murdered his beloved son.

As we reflect on this parable, we realize that God is the true owner of the vineyard, and we are merely His stewards. Everything we have—our life, health, family, abilities, resources, time, and opportunities—has been entrusted to us by Him. One day, we too will be asked to give an account of how we have used these gifts.

Life is short, and every day is an opportunity to respond to God's goodness. Let us not wait until tomorrow to give back to Him. We can express our gratitude by serving others, helping those in need, supporting the poor, encouraging the discouraged, and sharing the blessings we have received. For example, we may help provide for the education of a less fortunate relative or extend a helping hand to someone struggling in life. There are countless ways through which we can become instruments of God's love and generosity.

When we freely share what God has entrusted to us, we acknowledge that we are not owners but stewards. In doing so, we open our hearts more fully to God's grace and allow His love to flow through us to others.

Today, let us prayerfully examine our hearts. What have we truly given back to God in return for His countless blessings? Have we offered Him our time, our talents, our treasures, and our love? Or have we been holding tightly to gifts that were never meant to be ours alone?

May we never forget that everything comes from God and ultimately belongs to Him. And when the Lord comes seeking the fruits of the vineyard He entrusted to us, will He find hearts overflowing with gratitude, generosity, and faithful stewardship—or empty hands that kept His blessings only for ourselves?—Marino J. Dasmarinas

Ang Mabuting Balita at Repleksyon Lunes Hunyo 1 Paggunita kay San Justino, martir: 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.

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Repleksyon:

Napagtatanto ba natin na ang lahat ng mayroon tayo ngayon ay hindi talaga atin? Ang lahat ng ating tinataglay ay sa Diyos nagmula. Buong pagmamahal Niya itong ipinagkatiwala sa atin.

Maaaring nagsikap tayo nang husto upang makamtan ang mga ito, ngunit sa likod ng bawat pagkakataon, tagumpay, at pagpapala ay ang mapagpalang kamay ng Diyos. Kung wala ang Kanyang paggabay, pag-iingat, at pagkakaloob, hindi tayo makararating sa kinalalagyan natin ngayon.

Hindi lamang sa sarili nating pagsisikap nanggaling ang ating mga tagumpay. Ang Diyos ang nagbigay sa atin ng kakayahan, lakas, karunungan, at mga pagkakataong nagdala sa atin sa tagumpay. Ang bawat mabuting bagay na tinatamasa natin ay kaloob Niya. Kaya mahalagang itanong natin sa ating mga sarili: Ano ang naibabalik natin sa Panginoon bilang pasasalamat sa Kanyang kabutihan?

Sa ating Ebanghelyo, ikinuwento ni Jesus ang talinghaga tungkol sa isang may-ari ng ubasan na maingat na naghanda ng kanyang ubasan at ipinaupa ito sa mga magsasaka. Tinamasa ng mga magsasaka ang bunga ng ubasan at nakinabang sa lahat ng paghahandang ginawa ng may-ari para sa kanila.

Ang ubasan ay sumasagisag sa Israel, at ang mga magsasaka naman ay kumakatawan sa mga pinunong panrelihiyon ng Israel. Ang may-ari ng ubasan ay ang Diyos. Ang mga alipin o sugo ay ang Kanyang mga propeta, at ang minamahal na anak ay walang iba kundi si Jesus.

Nang dumating ang panahon ng anihan, natural lamang na hingin ng may-ari ang kanyang bahagi sa bunga ng ubasan. Ngunit dahil sa kanilang kasakiman at pagiging makasarili, tumanggi ang mga magsasaka na ibigay ang nararapat sa kanya. Sa halip, kanilang pinagmalupitan at pinatay ang mga sugo, at maging ang minamahal na anak ng may-ari ay kanilang ipinapatay.

Habang pinagninilayan natin ang talinghagang ito, napagtatanto natin na ang Diyos ang tunay na may-ari ng ubasan at tayo lamang ang Kanyang mga katiwala. Ang ating buhay, kalusugan, pamilya, kakayahan, panahon, at yaman, ay pawang ipinagkatiwala lamang sa atin. Darating ang araw na tayo rin ay tatanungin kung paano natin ginamit ang mga kaloob na ito.

Maikli lamang ang buhay, at bawat araw ay pagkakataon upang tumugon sa kabutihan ng Diyos. Huwag nating ipagpaliban ang pagbabalik sa Kanya ng ating pasasalamat. Magagawa natin ito sa pamamagitan ng paglilingkod sa kapwa, pagtulong sa mga nangangailangan, pagdamay sa mga nahihirapan, at pagbabahagi ng mga pagpapalang ating tinanggap.

Maaari nating tulungan ang isang kapos-palad na kamag-anak na makapag-aral o magbigay ng tulong sa sinumang nangangailangan. Napakaraming paraan upang tayo ay maging kasangkapan ng pagmamahal at kabutihang-loob ng Diyos.

Kapag maluwag sa puso nating ibinabahagi ang mga biyayang ipinagkatiwala sa atin, kinikilala nating hindi tayo mga may-ari kundi mga katiwala lamang. Sa paggawa nito, mas binubuksan natin ang ating puso sa biyaya ng Diyos at hinahayaang dumaloy ang Kanyang pag-ibig sa pamamagitan natin patungo sa iba.

Pagnilayan natin nang taimtim ang ating buhay. Ano ba talaga ang naibabalik natin sa Diyos kapalit ng Kanyang napakaraming pagpapala? Naiaalay ba natin sa Kanya ang ating panahon, talento, at yaman? O mahigpit ba nating hinahawakan ang mga biyayang hindi naman talaga para sa atin lamang?

Nawa'y hindi natin malimutan na ang lahat ay nagmumula sa Diyos at sa Kanya rin nauuwi. At kapag dumating ang araw na hingin Niya ang bunga ng ubasang ipinagkatiwala Niya sa atin, matagpuan kaya Niya tayo na may pusong puno ng pasasalamat, pagkabukas-palad, at tapat na pangangasiwa ng Kanyang mga kaloob—o mga kamay na walang maihahandog dahil inangkin natin para sa ating sarili ang mga biyayang dapat sana'y ibinahagi natin sa iba?—Marino J. Dasmarinas

Reflection for Sunday May 31 Solemnity of the Most Holy Trinity: John 3:16-18

Gospel: John 3:16-18

God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him might not perish but might have eternal life. 

For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world might be saved through him. Whoever believes in him will not be condemned, but whoever does not believe has already been condemned, because he has not believed in the name of the only Son of God.

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Reflection:

There is a legend that while Saint Augustine was walking along the beach, trying to understand how there could be three Persons in one God, he encountered a child using a seashell to scoop water from the sea.

The child would run back to the shore and pour the water into a small hole he had dug in the sand. Saint Augustine watched for a while and then asked the child what he was doing. The child replied, “I am putting the sea into this hole.”

Saint Augustine gently responded that such a task was impossible, for no hole in the sand could ever contain the vastness of the ocean.

The child then said to him, “What you are trying to understand is also impossible. You will never be able to fully contain the mystery of the Holy Trinity in your human understanding.”

As we celebrate the Solemnity of the Blessed Trinity, we are invited once again to enter into this sacred mystery: one God in three Persons—God the Father, our Creator; God the Son, Jesus our Savior; and God the Holy Spirit, our Sanctifier. Three distinct Persons, yet one divine communion of love.

As we reflect on this truth, we realize how limited our human understanding is. We may try to explain it, define it, or fully grasp it with our intellect, but the mystery of God always stretches beyond what we can contain.

And yet, we are not called to figure God out—we are called to trust Him.

When we walk with the Lord, we are invited to move beyond mere curiosity and enter into deeper faith. We are reminded that God does not ask us to fully comprehend Him before we believe in Him. Instead, He calls us to believe so that we may begin to truly know Him.

The mystery of the Holy Trinity teaches us that faith is not the absence of questions, but the willingness to trust God even when answers are beyond our reach. It invites us to rely not only on our limited understanding, but on God’s infinite wisdom and love revealed to us through Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit.

As we continue our journey of faith, may we learn to walk not merely by sight, but by trust; not by what we can fully explain, but by the grace we have received.

And so, as we stand before the mystery of a God who is three yet one, we are gently asked:

Are we willing to let God be God in our lives—even when we do not fully understand Him, but are simply called to trust Him with all our heart?—Marino J. Dasmarinas

Ang Mabuting Balita at Repleksyon Linggo Mayo 31 Dakilang Kapistahan ng Tatlong Persona sa Isang Diyos: Juan 3:16-18

Mabuting Balita: Juan 3:16-18

Gayon na lamang ang pag-ibig ng Diyos sa sanlibutan, kaya ibinigay niya ang kanyang bugtong na Anak, upang ang sumampalataya sa kanya ay hindi mapahamak, kundi magkaroon ng buhay na walang hanggan. Sapagkat sinugo ng Diyos ang kanyang Anak, hindi upang maparusahan ang sanlibutan, kundi upang iligtas ito sa pamamagitan niya. 

"Hindi hinahatulang maparusahan ang nananampalataya sa bugtong na Anak ng Diyos; ngunit hinatulan nang parusahan ang hindi nananampalataya sa kanya. 

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Repleksyon:

May isang alamat tungkol kay San Agustin habang siya ay naglalakad sa dalampasigan, at pilit na inuunawa kung paanong ang Diyos ay iisa ngunit may tatlong Persona. Sa kanyang paglalakad, nakatagpo siya ng isang munting bata na gumagamit ng kabibe upang sumalok ng tubig mula sa dagat.

Paulit-ulit na tumatakbo ang bata pabalik sa buhanginan at ibinubuhos ang tubig sa maliit na hukay na kanyang ginawa. Pinanood siya ni San Agustin at kalaunan ay tinanong kung ano ang kanyang ginagawa. Sumagot ang bata, “Ipinapasok ko ang dagat sa hukay na ito.”

Ngumiti si San Agustin at sinabi na ito ay imposible, sapagkat kailanman ay hindi kayang lamnan ng isang maliit na hukay ang napakalawak na karagatan.

Ngunit tumugon ang bata sa kanya, “Ang iyong sinusubukang unawain ay imposible rin. Hindi mo lubos na mauunawaan ang misteryo ng Santisima Trinidad sa pamamagitan lamang ng iyong pag-iisip.”

Sa ating pagdiriwang ng Dakilang Kapistahan ng Banal na Santatlo, tayo ay inaanyayahang muling pumasok sa dakilang misteryong ito: iisang Diyos sa tatlong Persona—Diyos Ama, ating Manlilikha; Diyos Anak, si Hesus na ating Tagapagligtas; at Diyos Espiritu Santo, ating Tagapagpabanal. Tatlong magkakaibang Persona, ngunit iisang Diyos ng pag-ibig at buhay.

Habang ating pinagninilayan ang katotohanang ito, higit nating nauunawaan na limitado lamang ang ating pag-iisip. Maaaring subukan nating ipaliwanag, unawain, at bigyang-kahulugan ang Diyos, ngunit ang Kanyang misteryo ay laging higit pa sa kayang abutin ng ating pang-unawa.

Gayunpaman, hindi tayo tinatawag ng Diyos na Siya ay ganap na maunawaan, kundi Siya ay ating pagkatiwalaan.

Sa ating paglalakad kasama ang Panginoon, inaanyayahan tayong lampasan ang simpleng pag-uusisa at pumasok sa mas malalim na pananampalataya. Hindi hinihingi ng Diyos na maunawaan muna natin Siya bago tayo maniwala; sa halip, tayo ay inaanyayahang maniwala upang Siya ay mas makilala natin.

Ang misteryo ng Banal na Santatlo ay nagtuturo sa atin na ang pananampalataya ay hindi kawalan ng mga tanong, kundi ang kakayahang magtiwala sa Diyos kahit ang sagot ay hindi pa natin lubos na nauunawaan. Inaanyayahan tayo nitong umasa hindi lamang sa ating limitadong kaalaman, kundi sa walang hanggang karunungan at pag-ibig ng Diyos na nahayag sa atin sa pamamagitan ni Hesukristo at ng Espiritu Santo.

Sa ating patuloy na paglalakbay ng pananampalataya, nawa’y matutunan nating lumakad hindi lamang sa ating nakikita, kundi sa ating pananalig; hindi lamang sa ating nauunawaan, kundi sa biyayang ating tinatanggap.

Kaya sa harap ng misteryo ng Diyos na iisa ngunit tatlo, tayo ay marahang tinatanong:

Handa ba tayong hayaan ang Diyos na manatiling Diyos sa ating buhay—kahit hindi natin Siya lubos na nauunawaan, ngunit buong puso nating pinagkakatiwalaan?—Marino J. Dasmarinas

Reflection for May 30 Saturday of the Eighth in Ordinary Time: 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:

The story is told of a lay minister was elected chairman of his church ministry. Upon being elected, however, his true character became more apparent, for he became deeply obsessed with his newfound authority. He told the members of the ministry this very prideful statement: “I am now the head of this ministry; thus, it is incumbent upon all of you to follow what I want.”

In the Gospel, Jesus was asked by His persecutors: “By what authority are you doing these things? Or who gave you this authority to do them?” (Mark 11:28). Were they truly concerned about Jesus’ authority, or were they simply threatened because their own authority was slowly being diminished by Jesus’ growing popularity among the common people?

Authority in itself is not wrong. In fact, authority can become a beautiful instrument for service when it is exercised with humility, prudence, compassion, and love. This is exactly how Jesus exercised His authority. Unlike the Pharisees and the chief priests of His time, who often used their authority to protect their pride and advance their self-serving interests, Jesus used His authority to heal the wounded, guide the lost, uplift the poor, and reveal the love and mercy of God.

As followers of Christ, we are all entrusted with some form of authority, influence, or responsibility — in our families, communities, workplaces, ministries, and relationships. The question is not whether we have authority, but how we use it. Do we use it to control, dominate, and seek recognition for ourselves, or do we use it to serve, encourage, and bring others closer to God?

May we always remember that true greatness in God’s eyes is not found in power, position, or recognition, but in humble service. The authority that comes from God should never lead us to pride, but instead move us to love more deeply, serve more faithfully, and become more like Christ each day.

When people experience our leadership, influence, or authority, do they encounter our pride — or do they encounter the humble and loving presence of Jesus in us?— Marino J. Dasmarinas

Ang Mabuting Balita at Repleksyon Mayo 30 Sabado sa Ikawalong Linggo sa Karaniwang Panahon: 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.”

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Repleksyon:

May isang kuwento tungkol sa lay minister na nahalal bilang tagapangulo ng kanilang ministry sa simbahan. Ngunit nang siya ay mahalal,  lumabas ang tunay niyang pagkatao sapagkat siya ay naging labis na nalasing sa kanyang bagong natamong autoridad at kapangyarihan. Sinabi pa niya sa mga kasamahan niya sa ministry: “Ako na ngayon ang pinuno ng ministry na ito, kaya dapat ninyong sundin kung ano ang gusto ko.” 

Sa Ebanghelyo, tinanong si Jesus ng Kanyang mga umuusig: “Sa anong kapangyarihan mo ginagawa ang mga bagay na ito? At sino ang nagbigay sa iyo ng kapangyarihang ito?” (Marcos 11:28). Talaga bang nais nilang malaman ang pinagmulan ng kapangyarihan ni Jesus? O natatakot lamang sila dahil unti-unti nang nawawala ang impluwensiya at kapangyarihan nila habang mas lalong minamahal at sinusundan si Jesus ng mga karaniwang tao? 

Ang kapangyarihan o autoridad ay hindi masama kung ito ay ginagamit nang may kababaang-loob, karunungan, at malasakit. Ganito ginamit ni Jesus ang Kanyang kapangyarihan. Hindi tulad ng mga Pariseo at punong pari noong kapanahunan Niya na madalas gamitin ang kanilang kapangyarihan para sa pansariling kapakanan. Ginamit naman ni Jesus ang Kanyang kapangyarihan upang maglingkod, magpagaling, umakay, at magpahayag ng pagmamahal at awa ng Diyos.

Bilang mga tagasunod ni Hesus, tayong lahat ay may ipinagkatiwalang impluwensiya, pananagutan, o kapangyarihan — sa ating pamilya, ministri, trabaho, komunidad, at sa kapwa. Ang mahalagang tanong ay hindi kung mayroon tayong kapangyarihan, kundi kung paano natin ito ginagamit. Ginagamit ba natin ito upang magyabang, magkontrol, at itaas ang ating sarili? O ginagamit ba natin ito upang magmahal, maglingkod, magpalakas ng loob, at ilapit ang iba sa Diyos?

Nawa’y lagi nating alalahanin na ang tunay na kadakilaan sa mata ng Diyos ay hindi nasusukat sa posisyon, titulo, o kapangyarihan, kundi sa kababang-loob at tapat na paglilingkod. Ang kapangyarihang nagmumula sa Diyos ay hindi dapat magbunga ng pagmamataas, kundi ng mas malalim na pagmamahal, mas tapat na paglilingkod, at mas makahulugang pamumuhay kasama si Hesus.

Sa ating pang-araw-araw na pamumuno at pakikitungo sa iba, ano kaya ang higit na nakikita ng ating kapwa sa atin — ang ating pagmamataas o ang mapagpakumbaba at mapagmahal na presensya ni Jesus na namamayani sa ating puso?— Marino J. Dasmarinas

Reflection for May 29 Friday of the Eighth in Ordinary Time: Mark 11:11-26

Gospel: Mark 11:11-26

Jesus entered Jerusalem and went into the temple area. He looked around at everything and, since it was already late, went out to Bethany with the Twelve. 

The next day as they were leaving Bethany he was hungry. Seeing from a distance a fig tree in leaf, he went over to see if he could find anything on it. When he reached it he found nothing but leaves; it was not the time for figs. And he said to it in reply, “May no one ever eat of your fruit again!” And his disciples heard it. 

They came to Jerusalem, and on entering the temple area he began to drive out those selling and buying there. He overturned the tables of the money changers and the seats of those who were selling doves. He did not permit anyone to carry anything through the temple area. Then he taught them saying, “Is it not written: My house shall be called a house of prayer for all peoples? But you have made it a den of thieves.” 

The chief priests and the scribes came to hear of it and were seeking a way to put him to death, yet they feared him because the whole crowd was astonished at his teaching. When evening came, they went out of the city. 

Early in the morning, as they were walking along, they saw the fig tree withered to its roots. Peter remembered and said to him, “Rabbi, look! The fig tree that you cursed has withered.” Jesus said to them in reply, “Have faith in God. Amen, I say to you, whoever says to this mountain, ‘Be lifted up and thrown into the sea,’ and does not doubt in his heart but believes that what he says will happen, it shall be done for him. 

Therefore I tell you, all that you ask for in prayer, believe that you will receive it and it shall be yours. When you stand to pray, forgive anyone against whom you have a grievance, so that your heavenly Father may in turn forgive you your transgressions.”

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Reflection:

Isn’t it frightening how Jesus condemned the barren fig tree? As we reflect on this, we cannot help but ask ourselves: could this also happen to us? Yet, why should we wait for such a moment of condemnation when God, in His mercy and love, is still giving us time and opportunity to renew our lives and return to Him?

Let us, therefore, humbly turn away from every form of sinfulness while we still have time. Each day is a grace-filled invitation from the Lord to change, to grow, and to bear fruits worthy of our calling as His followers. 

As we walk away from sin, let us also strive to become fruitful and faithful disciples of Jesus by sharing and living out His teachings in our daily lives. Otherwise, like the barren fig tree, we too may become spiritually barren in this world.

If we do not know how to share His teachings through words, then let us proclaim Him through the witness of our lives. In the kindness we show, in the forgiveness we extend, in the humility we practice, and in the love we give, others will recognize that we truly belong to Jesus. Let us not be deceived by the ways of the world, for they only lead to emptiness, restlessness, and a life without true peace and lasting joy.

The day will surely come when we will stand before God in judgment (Matthew 25:31–46). On that day, may our hearts not be found empty and barren, but fruitful with faith, love, mercy, and obedience to His will.

While we still have time, let us ask ourselves: Are we truly bearing fruits that glorify God, or are we merely living for ourselves while slowly becoming barren before Him?– Marino J. Dasmarinas

Ang Mabuting Balita at Repleksyon Mayo 29 Biyernes sa Ikawalong Linggo sa Karaniwang Panahon: Marcos 11:11-26

Mabuting Balita: Marcos 11:11-26

Sa gitna ng pagbubunyi ng mga tao, pumunta si Hesus sa Jerusalem at pumasok sa templo. Pagkatapos tingnan ang lahat ng bagay doon, lumabas siya at nagbalik sa Betania, kasama ang Labindalawa, palibhasa’y gumagabi na noon.

Kinabukasan, nang sila’y pabalik na mula sa Betania, nagutom si Hesus. Natanaw nito sa di-kalayuan ang isang puno ng igos na madahon. Nilapitan niya ito upang tingnan kung may bunga. Ngunit wala siyang nakita kundi mga dahon, sapagkat hindi pa panahon ng igos noon. Kaya’t sinabi niya sa puno ng igos, “Wala nang makakakain pa ng iyong bunga.” Ito’y narinig ng kanyang mga alagad.  

Pagdating nila sa Jerusalem, pumasok sa templo si Hesus. Kanyang ipinagtabuyan ang mga nagbibili at namimili roon at ipinagtaob ang mga mesa ng mga mamamalit ng salapi at ang upuan ng mga nagtitinda ng kalapati. Pinagbawalan niyang magdaan sa loob ng templo ang sinumang may dala-dalahan. At tinuruan niya ang mga tao.  

Sinabi niya, “Nasusulat, ‘Ang aking bahay ay tatawaging bahay-dalanginan ng lahat ng bansa.’ Ngunit ginawa ninyong pugad ng mga magnanakaw.” Narinig ito ng mga punong saserdote at ng mga eskriba. Buhat noo’y humanap sila ng paraan upang mapatay si Hesus, sapagkat natatakot sila sa kanya, dahil sa humahanga ang lahat ng tao sa kanyang turo. Pagdating ng gabi, lumabas na naman ng lungsod si Hesus at ang kanyang mga alagad. 

Kinaumagahan, pagdaan nila’y nakita nilang patay na ang puno ng igos. Naalaala ni Pedro ang nangyari at kanyang sinabi kay Hesus, “Guro tingnan ninyo! Namatay ang puno ng igos na sinumpa ninyo.” Sumagot si Hesus, “Manalig kayo sa Diyos. Tandaan ninyo ito: kung sabihin ninuman sa bundok na ito, ‘Umalis ka riyan; tumalon ka sa dagat,’ na hindi siya nag-aalinlangan kundi nananalig na mangyayari ang sinabi niya, ito’y gagawin ng Diyos para sa kanya.   

Kaya’t sinasabi ko sa inyo, anuman ang hingin ninyo sa panalangin, manalig kayong natanggap na ninyo iyon, at matatanggap nga ninyo. Kapag kayo’y mananalangin, patawarin muna ninyo ang nagkasala sa inyo upang ipatawad din naman sa inyo ng inyong Amang nasa langit ang inyong pagkakasala. Ngunit kung hindi kayo magpatawad, hindi rin naman kayo patatawarin ng iyong Amang nasa langit.”

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Repleksyon:

Hindi ba’t nakakatakot isipin kung paano isinumpa ni Jesus ang punong igos na hindi namunga? Habang pinagninilayan natin ito, hindi natin maiwasang tanungin ang ating mga sarili: maaari rin kayang mangyari ito sa atin? Pero bakit pa natin hihintayin ang ganitong uri ng paghatol kung binibigyan pa tayo ng Diyos ng panahon at pagkakataon upang magbago at magbalik-loob sa Kanya?

Kaya naman, habang may panahon pa, talikuran na natin ang bawat uri ng kasalanan. Bawat araw na ipinagkakaloob sa atin ng Panginoon ay isang paanyaya upang magbago, lumago sa pananampalataya, at mamunga bilang Kanyang mga tagasunod. 

Habang tayo’y lumalayo sa kasalanan, sikapin din nating maging mabunga at tapat na mga alagad ni Jesus sa pamamagitan ng pagsasabuhay at pagbabahagi ng Kanyang mga aral sa ating pang-araw-araw na buhay. Sapagkat kung hindi, tulad ng punong igos na walang bunga, maaari rin tayong maging walang silbi sa mundong ito. 

Kung hindi man natin kayang ipahayag ang Kanyang mga aral sa pamamagitan ng salita, ipakita natin ito sa paraan ng ating pamumuhay. Sa kabutihang ating ginagawa, sa pagpapatawad na ating ibinibigay, sa kababaang-loob na ating isinasabuhay, at sa pag-ibig na ating ipinapadama, makikita ng iba na tayo ay tunay na tagasunod ni Kristo. Huwag nating hayaang iligaw tayo ng makamundong pamumuhay sapagkat ito’y humahantong lamang sa kawalan ng tunay na kapayapaan, kagalakan, at kaganapan sa buhay. 

Darating ang araw na tayong lahat ay haharap sa paghuhukom ng Diyos (Mateo 25:31–46). Nawa sa araw na iyon ay hindi tayo matagpuang walang bunga, kundi puspos ng pananampalataya, pagmamahal, awa, at pagsunod sa Kanyang kalooban. 

Habang may panahon pa, tanungin natin ang ating mga sarili: Namumuhay ba tayo upang magbigay ng bunga para sa kaluwalhatian ng Diyos, o unti-unti na ba tayong nagiging tigang sa ating pananampalataya habang nabubuhay lamang para sa ating mga sarili?– Marino J. Dasmarinas

Reflection for May 28 Thursday of the Eighth Week in Ordinary Time: Mark 10:46-52

Gospel: Mark 10:46-52

As Jesus was leaving Jericho with his disciples and a sizable crowd Bartimaeus, a blind man, the son of Timaeus, sat by the roadside begging. On hearing that it was Jesus of Nazareth, he began to cry out and say, “Jesus, son of David, have pity on me.”

And many rebuked him, telling him to be silent. But he kept calling out all the more, “Son of David, have pity on me.” Jesus stopped and said, “Call him.  So they called the blind man, saying to him, “Take courage; get up, Jesus is calling you.

He threw aside his cloak, sprang up, and came to Jesus. Jesus said to him in reply, “What do you want me to do for you? The blind man replied to him, “Master, I want to see. Jesus told him, ‘Go your way; your faith has saved you. Immediately he received his sight and followed him on the way.

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Reflection:

What is persistence and faith?

They are the acts of refusing to give up no matter how great the trials and odds against us may be. We continue to seek and follow what is good because deep in our hearts we believe that God is with us, that He hears our prayers, and that He will never abandon us in our struggles. Even when the road is difficult and uncertain, faith gives us the courage to move forward and persistence gives us the strength to continue calling upon the Lord.

The blind and poor man Bartimaeus had this kind of faith-filled persistence. Humanly speaking, all the odds were against him in his desire to have an encounter with Jesus. He was blind and poor. He had no power, influence, or status in life. Yet when he heard that Jesus was passing by, he cried out with all his heart, “Jesus, Son of David, have pity on me” (Mark 10:48).

Many rebuked Bartimaeus and told him to keep silent, but the more they tried to silence him, the more he persistently called out to Jesus. What gave Bartimaeus such courage and determination? It was his deep faith. He believed with all his heart that Jesus would hear him, notice him, and heal him.

Ironically, Bartimaeus was blind and had not seen Jesus perform miracles with his own eyes. Yet he believed. It was enough for him to hear the powerful and life-giving name of Jesus. His faith did not depend on what he could physically see. Instead, his faith rested on who Jesus truly is.

Because of his deep faith and persistence, Bartimaeus gained the attention of Jesus. At that very moment, he was healed and regained his sight. What a beautiful reminder for all of us that sincere faith and perseverance can draw us closer to the heart of Christ.

In our own lives, there are moments when we feel discouraged, weak, rejected, or burdened by problems and sufferings. There are times when we may feel that God is silent or far away. But like Bartimaeus, may we continue to call upon Jesus with confidence and trust.

As long as we do not give up on Him, miracles can happen in our lives. Perhaps it may be healing from sickness, peace in our hearts, restoration in our families, answers to our persistent prayers, or the strength to carry the crosses we bear each day.

The Lord never ignores a heart that humbly and faithfully seeks Him. He sees our tears, hears our cries, and knows the deepest desires of our hearts. Our task is to continue believing, continue praying, and continue drawing near to Him no matter how difficult life may become.

How persistent are we in our desire to encounter Jesus personally? How deep is our faith when trials, disappointments, and hardships come into our lives? Do we continue praying even when answers seem delayed? Do we faithfully attend Holy Mass and spend time listening to His words in the Bible? Or do we easily lose hope and stop calling upon Him when life becomes difficult?

Jesus continues to pass by in our lives. Will we, like Bartimaeus, cry out to Him with unwavering faith and persistence until we experience His healing, mercy, and transforming love?— Marino J. Dasmarinas

Ang Mabuting Balita at Repleksyon Mayo 28 Huwebes sa Ikawalong Linggo ng Pasko ng Pagkabuhay: Marcos 10:46-52

Mabuting Balita: Marcos 10:46-52

Noong panahong iyon, dumating si Hesus sa Jerico, kasama ang kanyang mga alagad at marami pang iba. Nang umaalis na sila roon, may naraanan silang isang bulag na nakaupo sa tabi ng daan at namamalimos. Siya’y si Bartimeo, anak ni Timeo. Nang marinig niyang naroon si Hesus na taga-Nazaret, sumigaw siya ng ganito: “Hesus, Anak ni David, mahabag po kayo sa akin!”

Pinagsabihan siya ng mga tao at pinatatahimik, ngunit lalo pa siyang nagsisigaw, “Anak ni David, mahabag po kayo sa akin!” Tumigil si Hesus at kanyang sinabi, “Tawagin ninyo siya.” At tinawag nga nila ang bulag. “Lakasan mo ang iyong loob,” sabi nila. “Tumindig ka. Ipinatatawad ka niya.”

Iniwaksi niya ang kanyang balabal, paluksong tumayo at lumapit kay Hesus. “Ano ang ibig mong gawin ko sa iyo?” tanong sa kanya ni Hesus. Sumagot ang bulag, “Guro, ibig ko po sanang makakita.” Sinabi ni Hesus, “Humayo ka; magaling ka na dahil sa iyong pananalig.” Noon di’y nakakita siya, at sumunod kay Hesus.

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Repleksyon:

Ano ba ang ibig sabihin pag tayo ay may malalim na pananampalataya?

Ito ay ang hindi natin pagsuko gaano man kabigat ang mga pagsubok at hamon na ating kinakaharap sa buhay. Patuloy tayong lumalapit at kumakapit sa Diyos dahil naniniwala tayo nang buong puso na kasama natin Siya, nakikinig Siya sa ating mga panalangin, at hindi Niya tayo pababayaan kailanman. Sa gitna ng hirap at kawalan ng kasiguruhan, ang pananampalataya ang nagbibigay sa atin ng lakas ng loob upang magpatuloy, at ang pagtitiyaga naman ang nagtutulak sa atin upang huwag tumigil sa pagtawag sa Panginoon.

Ganito ang pananampalataya at pagtitiyaga ng bulag at mahirap na si Bartimeo. Sa paningin ng tao, tila lahat ng hadlang ay nasa kanyang harapan upang magkaroon siya ng personal na karanasan kay Jesus.

Siya ay bulag, mahirap, at walang kapangyarihan o impluwensiya sa lipunan. Ngunit nang marinig niyang dumaraan si Jesus, buong lakas at pananampalataya siyang sumigaw: “Jesus, Anak ni David, maawa Ka sa akin” (Marcos 10:48).

Marami ang sumaway kay Bartimeo at pinatahimik siya, ngunit lalo pa siyang sumigaw at tumawag kay Jesus. Ano ang nagbigay sa kanya ng ganoong katatagan at lakas ng loob? Ito ay ang kanyang malalim na pananampalataya. Buong puso siyang naniwala na maririnig siya ni Jesus, papansinin siya, at pagagalingin siya.

Nakakamangha isipin na si Bartimeo ay bulag at hindi naman nakita mismo ang mga himalang ginawa ni Jesus. Ngunit naniwala pa rin siya. Sapat na para sa kanya na marinig ang makapangyarihang pangalan ni Jesus upang manalig na siya ay gagaling. Ang kanyang pananampalataya ay hindi nakabatay sa kanyang nakikita kundi sa kung sino si Jesus sa kanyang puso at buhay.

Dahil sa kanyang malalim na pananampalataya at pagtitiyaga, napansin siya ni Jesus. At sa mismong sandaling iyon, siya ay gumaling at muling nakakita. Tunay ngang ang taos-pusong pananampalataya at hindi pagsuko ay naglalapit sa atin sa puso ng Panginoon.

Sa ating buhay, may mga pagkakataong tayo ay pinanghihinaan ng loob, nasasaktan, tinatanggihan, o nabibigatan sa mga problema at pagsubok. May mga sandali ring tila tahimik ang Diyos at parang malayo Siya sa atin.

Ngunit tulad ni Bartimeo, nawa’y patuloy tayong tumawag kay Jesus nang may pagtitiwala at pag-asa. Habang hindi tayo sumusuko sa Kanya, patuloy na kikilos ang Kanyang himala sa ating buhay. Maaaring ito ay kagalingan sa karamdaman, kapayapaan ng ating puso, pagkakaisa ng ating pamilya, kasagutan sa ating matiyagang panalangin, o lakas upang dalhin ang mga krus na ating pasan araw-araw.

Hindi binabalewala ng Panginoon ang pusong mapagkumbaba at tapat na naghahanap sa Kanya. Nakikita Niya ang ating mga luha, naririnig Niya ang ating mga daing, at alam Niya ang pinakamalalim na hangarin ng ating puso. Ang kailangan lamang nating gawin ay magpatuloy sa pananampalataya, magpatuloy sa pananalangin, at manatiling malapit sa Kanya kahit gaano kahirap ang buhay.

Gaano ba tayo katiyaga sa paghahangad na magkaroon ng personal na ugnayan at karanasan kay Jesus? Gaano kalalim ang ating pananampalataya kapag dumarating ang mga pagsubok at kabiguan sa ating buhay?

Patuloy pa rin ba tayong nananalangin kahit tila matagal dumating ang kasagutan? Patuloy ba tayong nagsisimba, nakikinig sa Salita ng Diyos, at  na uuhaw sa Kanyang presensya araw-araw? O madali ba tayong sumusuko at tumitigil sa pagtawag sa Kanya kapag tayo ay nahihirapan?

Kung dadaan si Jesus sa ating buhay ngayon. Katulad ba tayo ni Bartimeo na buong pananampalatayang sisigaw at tatawag sa Kanya hanggang maranasan natin ang Kanyang awa, pagpapagaling, at dakilang pagmamahal?— Marino J. Dasmarinas

Reflection for May 27 Wednesday of the Eighth Week in Ordinary Time: Mark 10:32-45

Gospel: Mark 10:32-45

The disciples were on the way, going up to Jerusalem, and Jesus went ahead of them. They were amazed, and those who followed were afraid. Taking the Twelve aside again, he began to tell them what was going to happen to him. 

“Behold, we are going up to Jerusalem, and the Son of Man will be handed over to the chief priests and the scribes, and they will condemn him to death and hand him over to the Gentiles who will mock him, spit upon him, scourge him, and put him to death, but after three days he will rise.” 

Then James and John, the sons of Zebedee, came to Jesus and said to him, “Teacher, we want you to do for us whatever we ask of you.” He replied, “What do you wish me to do for you?” They answered him, “Grant that in your glory we may sit one at your right and the other at your left.” 

Jesus said to them, “You do not know what you are asking. Can you drink the chalice that I drink or be baptized with the baptism with which I am baptized?” They said to him, “We can.” Jesus said to them, “The chalice that I drink, you will drink, and with the baptism with which I am baptized, you will be baptized; but to sit at my right or at my left is not mine to give but is for those for whom it has been prepared.” 

When the ten heard this, they became indignant at James and John. Jesus summoned them and said to them, “You know that those who are recognized as rulers over the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great ones make their authority over them felt. 

But it shall not be so among you. Rather, whoever wishes to be great among you will be your servant; whoever wishes to be first among you will be the slave of all. For the Son of Man did not come to be served but to serve and to give his life as a ransom for many.”

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Reflection:

Are we real followers of the Lord?

True followers of the Lord do not seek recognition, applause, or positions of honor. Those of us who sincerely desire to serve God quietly offer ourselves in love, even when no one notices our sacrifices. We serve without hidden motives because we know that Jesus sees every act of kindness, every silent offering, and even the deepest intentions of our hearts.

When James and John asked Jesus if they could sit beside Him in His glory, the Lord gently revealed a deeper truth to them. The places of honor in His Kingdom are not reserved for those who seek greatness for themselves, but for the humble, the selfless, and those who faithfully labor in the vineyard of the Lord without seeking recognition.

In many ways, we too can sometimes desire the blessings, honor, or rewards of serving God while avoiding the humility and sacrifice that true discipleship requires. Yet the paradox of following Jesus is this: before we can lead, we must first learn to serve; before we can be exalted, we must first learn to humble ourselves; and before we can fully live for Christ, we must first die to our selfish desires.

True humility is not something we pretend to possess so that others may admire us. Genuine service flows naturally from a heart that truly loves God. When we choose to serve in the vineyard of the Lord, we must let go of pride, pretensions, and false expectations. Our service must spring from the purity of our love for Jesus and our sincere desire to glorify Him alone.

There can be no true heavenly glorification for us unless we first embrace humility, sacrifice, and selfless love in the name of Jesus. The Lord does not measure greatness by status, recognition, or power, but by the sincerity of our hearts and our willingness to serve others with love.

Let us examine our hearts before the Lord. Are we serving Jesus to be noticed by others, or are we humbly offering ourselves for His glory alone? And if Jesus were to look deeply into our hearts today, would He find in us the spirit of a true servant willing to love, sacrifice, and follow Him no matter the cost?— Marino J. Dasmarinas