Reflection for August 3 Monday of the Eighteenth Week in Ordinary Time: Matthew 14:22-36

Gospel: Matthew 14:22-36

Jesus made the disciples get into a boat and precede him to the other side of the sea, while he dismissed the crowds. After doing so, he went up on the mountain by himself to pray. When it was evening he was there alone. 

Meanwhile the boat, already a few miles offshore, was being tossed about by the waves, for the wind was against it. During the fourth watch of the night, he came toward them, walking on the sea. When the disciples saw him walking on the sea they were terrified. "It is a ghost," they said, and they cried out in fear. At once Jesus spoke to them, "Take courage, it is I; do not be afraid." 

Peter said to him in reply, "Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you on the water." He said, "Come." Peter got out of the boat and began to walk on the water toward Jesus. But when he saw how strong the wind was he became frightened; and, beginning to sink, he cried out, "Lord, save me!" 

Immediately Jesus stretched out his hand and caught him, and said to him, "O you of little faith, why did you doubt?" After they got into the boat, the wind died down. Those who were in the boat did him homage, saying, "Truly, you are the Son of God."  

After making the crossing, they came to land at Gennesaret. When the men of that place recognized him, they sent word to all the surrounding country. People brought to him all those who were sick and begged him that they might touch only the tassel on his cloak, and as many as touched it were healed.

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Reflection:

What is faith in Jesus?

It is keeping our eyes fixed on Him and refusing to let anything distract us or draw our attention away from His loving presence. Faith is choosing to trust Him even when the road before us is uncertain, believing that His hand is always guiding us, even when we cannot clearly see where He is leading us.

When Peter saw Jesus walking on the water, he asked the Lord to allow him to come to Him, and Jesus graciously granted his request (Matthew 14:29–30).

As Peter walked toward Jesus, however, he noticed the strong wind and the waves crashing around him. The moment he shifted his focus from Jesus to the storm, fear overcame his faith, and he began to sink.

Yet Jesus did not abandon him. He immediately reached out His hand and saved him. This Gospel account speaks not only of Peter’s wavering faith but also of our own. It gently invites us to ask ourselves: How strong is our faith in Jesus when the storms of life begin to rage?

Can we continue to trust Him when we go through severe trials? What if we become seriously ill, lose someone we dearly love, face financial hardships, or carry burdens that seem too heavy to bear? Would these painful moments shake our confidence in the Lord?

Would we begin to ask Him, “Why?” These are honest questions that many of us have asked at one time or another. Yet even in our questions, the Lord patiently remains beside us, waiting for us to place our trust in Him once again.

Life is indeed a mystery. We may be here today, yet there is no guarantee that we will still be breathing tomorrow. Even our faith in Jesus is, in many ways, a mystery. We place our trust in Someone whom we cannot see with our physical eyes, yet we continue to hold on to Him because we have come to know His unfailing love and faithfulness.

Our faith is not built on what is visible but on the certainty that the Lord always keeps His promises. It is this faith that strengthens us, enables us to persevere, and carries us through every trial that comes our way.

Peter clearly had faith; otherwise, he would never have asked Jesus to let him come to Him. But for a brief moment, he allowed the wind and the waves to weaken his trust in the Lord. How often do we do the same? We begin our journey with confidence, but when difficulties arise, our fears, worries, and uncertainties can easily draw our eyes away from Jesus.

Still, the Good Shepherd never stops reaching out to us. Whenever we begin to sink beneath the weight of life's storms, His loving hand is always extended, ready to lift us up if only we turn back to Him.

As we continue our journey of faith, we will surely encounter moments that test our trust in the Lord. These trials are not meant to drive us away from Him but to draw us closer to His Sacred Heart, where we discover that His grace is always greater than our weakness and His love is stronger than our fears.

Let us, therefore, remain steadfast and never lose heart, no matter how fierce the storms may become. Let us keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, who never abandons those who place their trust in Him. He is always with us—strengthening us when we are weak, comforting us when we are discouraged, and carrying us safely through every test of faith.

Today, where are our eyes fixed—on the storms that surround us or on Jesus who walks above them? Will we allow our fears to pull us beneath the waves, or will we place our complete trust in the Lord, whose outstretched hand is always ready to lift us up?—Marino J. Dasmarinas

Ang Mabuting Balita at Repleksyon Agosto 3 Lunes ng Ika-18 na Linggo sa Karaniwang Panahon: Mateo 14:22-36

Mabuting Balita: Mateo 14:22-36

Matapos mabusog ang mga tao, agad pinasakay ni Hesus sa bangka ang kanyang mga alagad at pinauna sa kabilang ibayo samantalang pinauuwi niya ang mga tao. Pagkaalis ng mga ito, umahon siya sa burol upang manalangin. Nag-iisa siyang inabot doon ng gabi.

Samantala, nasa laot na noon ang bangka at sinasalpok ng mga alon sapagkat pasalungat sa hangin. At nang madaling araw na’y sumunod sa kanila si Hesus na naglalakad sa ibabaw ng tubig. Kinilabutan sa takot ang mga alagad nang makita nilang may lumalakad sa ibabaw ng tubig. “Multo!” sigaw nila.

Ngunit agad siyang nagsalita at sinabi sa kanila, “Huwag kayong matakot; si Hesus ito!” At nagsalita si Pedro, “Panginoon, kung talagang kayo iyan, papariyanin ninyo ako sa ibabaw ng tubig.” Sumagot siya, “Halika.” Kaya’t lumunsad si Pedro sa bangka at lumakad sa ibabaw ng tubig, palapit kay Hesus.

Ngunit nang mapansin niya ang hangin, siya’y natakot at nagsimulang lumubog. “Sagipin ninyo ako, Panginoon!” sigaw niya. Agad siyang inabot ni Hesus. “Napakaliit ng iyong pananalig!” sabi niya kay Pedro. “Bakit ka nag-alinlangan?” Pagkasakay nila sa bangka, tumigil ang hangin. At sinamba siya ng mga nasa bangka. “Tunay na kayo ang Anak ng Diyos!” sabi nila.

Tumawid sila ng lawa, at dumaong sa Genesaret. Nakilala si Hesus ng mga tagaroon. Agad nilang ipinamalita sa buong palibot ng lupaing iyon ang pagdating ni Hesus, kaya’t dinala nila sa kanya ang lahat ng maysakit. Hiniling nila sa kanya na ipahipo man lamang sa mga maysakit kahit ang laylayan ng kanyang kasuutan. At lahat ng makahipo nito ay gumagaling.

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Repleksyon:

Ano ba ang ating pananampalataya kay Jesus?

Ito ay ang pagpapanatili ng ating mga mata at puso na nakatuon sa Kanya at ang hindi pagpapahintulot sa anumang bagay na ilayo ang ating pansin mula sa Kanyang mapagmahal na presensya.

Ang tunay na pananampalataya ay ang pagpiling magtiwala sa Panginoon kahit hindi malinaw ang landas na ating tinatahak, sapagkat naniniwala tayong lagi Niya tayong inaakay at hindi Niya tayo kailanman iiwan.

Nang makita ni Pedro si Jesus na naglalakad sa ibabaw ng tubig, nakiusap siya sa Panginoon na papuntahin din siya sa Kanya. At buong kabutihang-loob na pinagbigyan ni Jesus ang kanyang kahilingan (Mateo 14:29–30).

Ngunit habang naglalakad si Pedro patungo kay Jesus, napansin niya ang malakas na hangin at ang naglalakihang alon. Nang ilihis niya ang kanyang paningin mula kay Jesus at ituon ito sa unos, nanaig ang takot kaysa sa kanyang pananampalataya kaya nagsimula siyang lumubog. Subalit hindi siya pinabayaan ng Panginoon. Agad Siyang nag-unat ng Kanyang kamay at iniligtas siya.

Ang pangyayaring ito ay hindi lamang tungkol sa panandaliang panghihina ng pananampalataya ni Pedro. Sumasalamin din ito sa ating sariling buhay. Inaanyayahan tayo nitong tanungin ang ating mga sarili: Gaano katatag ang ating pananampalataya kay Jesus kapag dumaraan tayo sa mabibigat na unos ng buhay?

Patuloy pa rin ba tayong magtitiwala sa Kanya kapag tayo ay dumaranas ng matitinding pagsubok? Paano kung tayo ay magkasakit nang malubha, mawalan ng mahal sa buhay, makaranas ng matinding paghihirap sa kabuhayan, o magdala ng mga pasaning tila hindi na natin kayang pasanin?

Hindi ba tayo matutuksong magtanong sa Panginoon, "Bakit?" Marahil marami sa atin ang nakaranas nang itanong ito. Ngunit maging sa gitna ng ating mga luha, pagdududa, at mga katanungan, nananatili Siyang nasa ating tabi, matiyagang naghihintay na muli nating ipagkatiwala sa Kanya ang ating buhay.

Tunay na isang hiwaga ang buhay. Narito tayo ngayon, ngunit walang katiyakang tayo ay mabubuhay pa bukas. Maging ang ating pananampalataya kay Jesus ay isang hiwaga rin. Hindi natin Siya nakikita ng ating mga mata, ngunit buong puso tayong nagtitiwala sa Kanya sapagkat naranasan na natin ang Kanyang walang hanggang pag-ibig, kabutihan, at katapatan.

Ang ating pananampalataya ay hindi nakabatay sa ating nakikita kundi sa katiyakang ang Panginoon ay laging tumutupad sa Kanyang mga pangako. Ang pananampalatayang ito ang nagbibigay sa atin ng lakas upang magpatuloy at magtiis anuman ang mga pagsubok na ating kinakaharap.

Malinaw na may pananampalataya si Pedro, sapagkat kung wala, hindi niya hihilinging makalakad patungo kay Jesus. Ngunit sa isang sandali, hinayaan niyang ang malakas na hangin at naglalakihang alon ang mangibabaw sa kanyang pagtitiwala sa Panginoon.

Hindi ba't madalas din itong mangyari sa atin? Nagsisimula tayong puno ng pananampalataya, ngunit kapag dumarating ang mga problema, unti-unting napapalitan ng takot, pag-aalala, at pangamba ang ating pagtitiwala.

Gayunman, hindi tayo kailanman iniiwan ng Mabuting Pastol. Sa tuwing tayo ay tila lumulubog sa gitna ng mga unos ng buhay, nakaunat pa rin ang Kanyang kamay, handang tayo'y ibangon at yakapin sa Kanyang walang hanggang pagmamahal.

Habang nagpapatuloy tayo sa ating paglalakbay bilang mga tagasunod ni Jesus, tiyak na darating ang mga pagkakataong susubukin ang ating pananampalataya. Ngunit ang mga pagsubok na ito ay hindi upang ilayo tayo sa Panginoon kundi upang higit tayong ilapit sa Kanyang Banal na Puso, kung saan matatagpuan natin ang biyayang higit na dakila kaysa sa ating kahinaan at ang pag-ibig na higit na makapangyarihan kaysa sa ating mga takot.

Kaya't manatili tayong matatag at huwag mawalan ng pag-asa gaano man kalakas ang mga unos na ating pinagdaraanan. Ituon natin ang ating paningin kay Jesus, sapagkat hindi Niya kailanman pinababayaan ang mga nagtitiwala sa Kanya. Siya ang nagpapalakas sa atin kapag tayo ay nanghihina, nagbibigay ng pag-asa kapag tayo ay pinanghihinaan ng loob, at umaakay sa atin hanggang makatawid tayo sa bawat pagsubok ng pananampalataya.

Ngayon, saan nakatuon ang ating mga mata at puso—sa mga unos na kinakaharap natin o kay Jesus na Panginoon ng lahat ng unos? Kapag tayo ay nagsimulang lumubog dahil sa takot at pag-aalala, pipiliin ba nating kumapit sa ating sariling lakas, o buong kababaang-loob ba nating hahawakan ang kamay ni Jesus na laging nakaunat upang tayo'y ibangon, akayin, at dalhin sa ligtas na pampang?—Marino J. Dasmarinas

Reflection for August 2 Eighteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time: Matthew 14:13-21

Gospel: Matthew 14:13-21

When Jesus heard of the death of John the Baptist, he withdrew in a boat to a deserted place by himself. The crowds heard of this and followed him on foot from their towns. When he disembarked and saw the vast crowd, his heart was moved with pity for them, and he cured their sick. 

When it was evening, the disciples approached him and said, "This is a deserted place and it is already late; dismiss the crowds so that they can go to the villages and buy food for themselves." He said to them, "There is no need for them to go away; give them some food yourselves." But they said to him, "Five loaves and two fish are all we have here."  

Then he said, "Bring them here to me," and he ordered the crowds to sit down on the grass. Taking the five loaves and the two fish, and looking up to heaven, he said the blessing, broke the loaves, and gave them to the disciples, who in turn gave them to the crowds.

They all ate and were satisfied, and they picked up the fragments left over – twelve wicker baskets full. Those who ate were about five thousand men, not counting women and children.

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Reflection:

Do we still have quiet time alone with God?

Once in a while, we need to withdraw from the madding crowd to be alone with God. In the midst of our busy schedules, endless responsibilities, and the constant noise of the world, our souls long for moments of silence in the loving presence of the Lord. We need these regular quiet moments with Him so that we can discern His presence, listen to His gentle voice, and allow Him to renew our hearts.

Upon learning of the beheading of His relative, John the Baptist, Jesus went to a deserted place by Himself for personal reflection and prayer. He was saddened by the death of His relative, and He sought strength and consolation in His communion with the Father. If even Jesus, the Son of God, made time to be alone with His Father, how much more do we need to pause from the demands of life and seek God's presence?

We, too, need these brief interludes of peace and quiet, when there is no one else except us and God. It is during these sacred moments that we become more aware of His loving presence and hear His gentle invitation to entrust our burdens to Him. The Lord continues to call all who are weary, burdened, and spiritually thirsty to come to Him, for He alone can refresh our souls, strengthen our hearts, and fill us with the peace that the world can never give.

Let us not be consumed by the deafening noise of a world where money, possessions, and power often rule and are even treated as gods by many. These things may promise happiness, but they can never satisfy the deepest longings of our hearts. Instead, let us dig deeper into our spiritual lives and rediscover that beneath the concerns of our earthly existence is the loving presence of God, who desires to strengthen, guide, and transform us each day.

After His solitary time of prayer and reflection, Jesus was once again ready to continue His mission. His first act was to heal the sick who had followed Him. His time with the Father did not lead Him away from people—it prepared Him to serve them with greater compassion and love. The more deeply we encounter God, the more readily we become instruments of His mercy to others.

The disciples wanted to send the people away, saying to Jesus, "Dismiss the crowd, for it is already getting late" (Matthew 14:15). But Jesus replied, "There is no need for them to go away; give them some food yourselves" (Matthew 14:16).

Then the miracle of the loaves and fish took place. Although there were only five loaves and two fish, Jesus fed more than five thousand people, and there was still plenty left over.

How did this miracle happen? It happened because of the generosity and love of Jesus. When we cling tightly to what we have and refuse to share, we limit the good that God desires to accomplish through us. But when we willingly place our little into His hands, He can multiply it beyond anything we could ever imagine. What seems insufficient to us becomes more than enough when entrusted to Him.

Jesus is forever generous and loving toward us. Out of His boundless love, He instituted the Eucharist, the Holy Mass, to nourish us with His very life. Even today, He continues to feed us with His Body and Blood whenever we receive Him in the Sacrament of Holy Communion. Every Eucharist is a profound reminder that our Lord never ceases to satisfy our deepest spiritual hunger and to accompany us on our journey of faith.

Let us, therefore, learn from the generosity and love of Jesus. Let us become people who willingly share our time, our blessings, our compassion, and our very selves with others. The more generously we give in love, the more we open our hearts to receive the immeasurable blessings that God longs to pour into our lives. True abundance is not measured by what we keep but by what we lovingly place into God's hands for the good of others.

As we continue our journey of faith, may we make time each day to be alone with the Lord, allowing His presence to renew our hearts, deepen our trust, and transform us into faithful disciples who reflect His love in the world.

Will we choose to step away from the noise of the world and spend time with Jesus today, allowing Him to fill us with His love so that we, in turn, may become His generous hands and compassionate heart to everyone we meet?— Marino J. Dasmarinas 

Ang Mabuting Balita at Repleksyon Agosto 2 Ika-18 Linggo sa Karaniwang Panahon: Mateo 14:13-21

Mabuting Balita: Mateo 14:13-21

Noong panahong iyon, nang marinig ni Jesus ang pagkamatay ni Juan Bautista, siya'y sumakay sa isang bangka at nag-iisang pumunta sa ilang na lugar. Nang mabalitaan naman iyon ng mga tao, sila'y lumabas ng bayan at lakad na sumunod sa kanya. Paglunsad ni Jesus sa dalampasigan, nakita niya ang napakaraming taong yaon.  

Nahabag siya sa kanila at pinagaling niya ang mga maysakit na dala nila. Nang dapit-hapon na'y lumapit sa kanya ang mga alagad. Sinabi nila, "Ilang ang pook na ito at malapit nang lumubog ang araw. Papuntahin na po ninyo sa mga nayon ang mga tao upang makabili ng kanilang makakain." "Hindi na sila kailangang umalis pa," sabi ni Jesus. "Kayo ang magbigay sa kanila ng makakain." Sumagot sila, "Lilima po ang tinapay at dadalawa ang isda natin."  

"Dalhin ninyo rito," sabi niya. Pinaupo niya sa damuhan ang mga tao, kinuha ang limang tinapay at dalawang isda; tumingala siya sa langit at nagpasalamat sa Diyos. Pinagpira-piraso niya ang mga tinapay at iniutos sa mga alagad na ipamigay iyon sa mga tao.

Kumain silang lahat at nabusog. Tinipon ng mga alagad ang lumabis, at sila'y nakapuno ng labindalawang bakol ng pira-pirasong tinapay. May limang libong lalaki ang kumain, bukod pa sa mga babae at mga bata.

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Repleksyon:

Naglalaan paba tayo ng oras para mapag-isa kasama ang Panginoon?

Paminsan-minsan, kailangan nating lumayo sa ingay at abala ng mundo upang mapag-isa kasama ang Diyos. Sa gitna ng ating abalang pamumuhay, walang tigil na mga gawain, at nakabibinging ingay ng mundong ating ginagalawan, naghahangad ang ating kaluluwa ng tahimik na sandali sa piling ng Panginoon.

Kailangan natin ang mga sandaling ito upang higit nating madama ang Kanyang presensya, mapakinggan ang Kanyang banayad na tinig, at hayaang baguhin at palakasin Niya ang ating mga puso.

Nang mabalitaan ni Jesus ang pagkapugot ng ulo ng Kanyang kamag-anak na si Juan Bautista, nagtungo Siya sa isang ilang na lugar upang mapag-isa sa panalangin at pagninilay. Nalungkot Siya sa sinapit ng Kanyang kamag-anak at doon Siya humugot ng lakas sa Kanyang malalim na pakikipag-ugnayan sa Ama.

Kung ang mismong Anak ng Diyos ay naglaan ng panahon upang mapag-isa kasama ang Ama, gaano pa kaya tayo na araw-araw ay nahaharap sa iba't ibang pagsubok at alalahanin? Hindi ba't higit nating kailangan ang mga sandaling tahimik na kasama ang Panginoon?

Kailangan din natin ang sandali ng katahimikan at kapayapaan, kung saan wala tayong iniintindi kundi ang Diyos at ang ating sarili sa Kanyang presensya. Sa mga banal na sandaling ito, higit nating nararanasan ang Kanyang pag-ibig at naririnig ang Kanyang paanyaya na ilagak sa Kanya ang ating mga pasanin.

Patuloy tayong inaanyayahan ng Panginoon na lumapit sa Kanya, tayong mga napapagod, nabibigatan, at nauuhaw sa espiritu, sapagkat Siya lamang ang tunay na makapagpapalakas, makapagpapayapa, at makapupuno sa ating mga puso.

Huwag nating hayaang kainin tayo ng nakabibinging ingay ng mundong ito, kung saan ang salapi, mga ari-arian, at kapangyarihan ang kadalasang naghahari at itinuturing pa ngang mga diyos ng marami. Maaaring magbigay ang mga ito ng panandaliang kasiyahan, ngunit hindi kailanman mapupunan ang pinakamalalim na pangangailangan ng ating puso.

Sa halip, laliman natin ang ating buhay espirituwal at muling tuklasin na sa ilalim ng ating makamundong pamumuhay ay naroon ang Diyos na mapagmahal, na nagnanais na palakasin, gabayan, at baguhin tayo araw-araw.

Pagkatapos ng Kanyang panalangin at pagninilay, muling ipinagpatuloy ni Jesus ang Kanyang misyon. Ang una Niyang ginawa ay pagalingin ang mga maysakit na sumunod sa Kanya. Ipinakikita nito na ang tunay na pakikipagtagpo sa Diyos ay hindi naghihiwalay sa atin sa kapwa, kundi lalo tayong inihahanda upang magmahal, maglingkod, at magmalasakit sa iba. Habang higit tayong lumalapit sa Panginoon, lalo rin tayong nagiging daluyan ng Kanyang habag at pagmamahal.

Nais ng mga alagad na pauwiin ang mga tao kaya sinabi nila kay Jesus, "Paalisin Mo na ang mga tao sapagkat gumagabi na" (Mateo 14:15). Ngunit sinabi ni Jesus sa kanila, "Hindi nila kailangang umalis; kayo ang magbigay sa kanila ng makakain" (Mateo 14:16).

At naganap ang himala ng limang tinapay at dalawang isda. Napakain ni Jesus ang mahigit limang libong tao at marami pa ang natira.

Paano nangyari ang himalang ito? Nangyari ito dahil sa walang hanggang pagmamahal at kagandahang-loob ni Jesus. Kapag mahigpit nating kinakapitan ang anumang mayroon tayo at ayaw nating magbahagi kahit sapat na ang ating tinatanggap, nalilimitahan natin ang mga himalang nais gawin ng Diyos sa pamamagitan natin.

Ngunit kapag buong pagtitiwala nating inilalagak sa Kanyang mga kamay kahit ang kakaunti nating taglay, ginagawa Niya itong sapat at higit pa sa ating inaasahan. Sa Diyos, ang kaunti ay nagiging sagana kapag ito ay iniaalay nang may pananampalataya at pag-ibig.

Palaging mapagbigay at mapagmahal si Jesus sa atin. Dahil sa Kanyang walang hanggang pag-ibig, itinatag Niya ang Eukaristiya o ang Banal na Misa upang maging pagkain ng ating kaluluwa. Hanggang sa ngayon, patuloy Niya tayong pinapakain ng Kanyang Katawan at Dugo tuwing tinatanggap natin Siya sa Sakramento ng Banal na Komunyon.

Sa bawat Eukaristiya, ipinapaalala sa atin na hindi tayo kailanman pinababayaan ng Panginoon; Siya ang tunay na Tinapay ng Buhay na nagbibigay-lakas at pag-asa sa ating paglalakbay dito sa mundo.

Kaya naman, matuto tayo sa kagandahang-loob at pagmamahal ni Jesus. Maging bukas-palad tayo sa pagbabahagi ng ating panahon, mga biyaya, malasakit, at pagmamahal sa ating kapwa. Habang sinusunod natin ang gusto ni Jesus, lalo rin nating binubuksan ang ating mga puso upang tanggapin ang hindi masukat na mga pagpapala ng Diyos. Ang tunay na kasaganaan ay hindi nasusukat sa dami ng ating kayamanan kundi sa ating pagmamahal at sa kahandaang ibahagi ang lahat ng ipinagkaloob ng Diyos sa atin.

Sa ating pagpapatuloy sa paglalakbay ng pananampalataya, nawa'y maglaan tayo araw-araw ng panahon upang mapag-isa kasama ang Panginoon. Sa Kanyang presensya, muli tayong palalakasin, pupunuin ng pag-asa, at babaguhin upang maging tapat na mga alagad na nagsasabuhay ng Kanyang pag-ibig sa mundo.

Sa gitna ng ingay, abala, at maraming hinihingi ng buhay, handa ba tayong huminto at maglaan ng panahon para kay Jesus? Hahayaan ba nating punuin Niya ang ating puso ng Kanyang pag-ibig upang tayo rin ay maging daluyan ng Kanyang kabutihan, habag, at pagmamahal sa bawat taong ating makakatagpo?— Marino J. Dasmarinas

Reflection for Saturday August 1 Memorial of Saint Alphonsus Liguori, Bishop and Doctor of the Church: Matthew 14:1-12

Gospel: Matthew 14:1-12

Herod the tetrarch heard of the reputation of Jesus and said to his servants, “This man is John the Baptist. He has been raised from the dead; that is why mighty powers are at work in him. Now Herod had arrested John, bound him, and put him in prison on account of Herodias, the wife of his brother Philip, for John had said to him “It is not lawful for you to have her. 

Although he wanted to kill him, he feared the people, for they regarded him as a prophet. But at a birthday celebration for Herod, the daughter of Herodias performed a dance before the guests and delighted Herod so much that he swore to give her whatever she might ask for. 

Prompted by her mother, she said, “Give me here on a platter the head of John the Baptist. The king was distressed, but because of his oaths and the guests who were present, he ordered that it be given, and he had John beheaded in the prison. His head was brought in on a platter and given to the girl, who took it to her mother. His disciples came and took away the corpse and buried him; and they went and told Jesus.

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Reflection:

There is a saying that, "Power corrupts, and absolute power corrupts absolutely." King Herod is a sobering example of someone who was corrupted by absolute power. Instead of ruling over his power, he allowed his power to rule over him. Had he remained in control of himself, he would not have ordered the beheading of John.

When leaders allow power to go to their heads, they can do many foolish things. They may begin to act as though they are greater than God, saying and doing things that no humble person would ever dare to say or do. Yet this temptation is not limited to leaders alone. Whenever we allow power, authority, influence, status, or even our own pride to control us, we too can make choices that wound others and dishonor God.

In the Gospel, we encounter King Herod as a powerful reminder of what happens when pride replaces humility. His arrogance led him to order the execution of John, believing he could silence the voice of truth.

But history and Scripture remind us that those who abuse the power entrusted to them may appear victorious for a time, yet they will ultimately face God's righteous judgment. No earthly power can ever surpass the authority of the One who is the true King of kings.

What, then, is the lesson for us? It is simple yet profound: we must never misuse whatever power, authority, influence, or responsibility God has entrusted to us. Whether in our families, workplaces, communities, or ministries, every gift we possess is meant to serve others and glorify God, not ourselves.

As the saying goes, "What goes around comes around." More importantly, God's Word reminds us that we will all give an account of how we have lived and how we have treated others. Whatever we sow today, we will one day reap.

May this Gospel lead us to examine our hearts with sincerity. Do we use our influence to build others up or to promote ourselves? Do we exercise authority with humility, compassion, and justice, or do we allow pride to dictate our decisions? Let us ask the Holy Spirit to keep our hearts humble, our motives pure, and our lives always surrendered to God's will, remembering that true greatness is found not in power, but in faithful service.

Today, let us honestly ask ourselves:Is the influence God has entrusted to us drawing others closer to Him, or has our pride begun to take His rightful place in our hearts?—Marino J. Dasmarinas

Ang Mabuting Balita at Repleksyon Sabado Agosto 1 Paggunita kay San Alfonso Maria ng Ligouri, obispo at pantas ng Simbahan: Mateo 14:1-12

Mabuting Balita: Mateo 14:1-12

Noong panahong iyon, nang makarating kay Herodes na tetrarka ang balita tungkol kay Jesus, sinabi niya sa kanyang mga lingkod, "Siya'y si Juan Bautista na muling nabuhay, kaya siya nakagagawa ng himala!" 

Si Herodes ang nagpahuli, nagpagapos at nagpabilanggo kay Juan. Ang dahilan ay si Herodias na asawa ng kapatid niyang si Felipe. Laging sinasabi ni Juan kay Herodes, "Hindi matuwid na magsama kayo ng asawa ng inyong kapatid." Ibig ni Herodes na ipapatay si Juan ngunit natatakot siya sa mga Judio, sapagkat kinikilala nilang propeta si Juan Bautista. 

Nang dumating ang kaarawan ni Herodes, sumayaw sa harapan ng mga panauhin ang anak na babae ni Herodias. Labis na nasiyahan si Herodes, kaya't isinumpa niyang ibibigay sa dalaga ang anumang hingin nito. Sa udyok ng kanyang ina ay sinabi ng dalaga, "Ibigay po ninyo sa akin ngayon din, sa isang pinggan, ang ulo ni Juan Bautista. " 

Nalungkot ang hari, ngunit dahil sa kanyang pangakong narinig ng mga panauhin, iniutos niyang ibigay iyon sa dalaga. Kaya't pinapugutan niya si Juan sa bilangguan. Inilagay ang ulo sa isang pinggan at ibinigay sa dalaga; dinala naman ito ng dalaga sa kanyang ina. Dumating ang mga alagad ni Juan, kinuha ang kanyang bangkay at inilibing. Pagkatapos, ibinalita nila ito kay Jesus.

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Repleksyon:

May kasabihan na, "Ang kapangyarihan ay nakapagdudulot ng katiwalian, at ang lubos na kapangyarihan ay lubos ding nakapagdudulot ng katiwalian."

Si Haring Herodes ay isang malinaw na halimbawa ng isang taong nasilo ng kapangyarihan. Sa halip na siya ang mamahala sa kanyang kapangyarihan, hinayaan niyang ang kapangyarihan ang mamahala sa kanya. Kung nanatili lamang siyang may pagpipigil sa kanyang sarili at sa kapangyarihang ipinagkatiwala sa kanya, hindi sana niya iniutos ang pagpugot sa ulo ni Juan.

Kapag hinahayaan ng mga pinuno na manaig ang kapangyarihan sa kanilang puso at isipan, maaari silang makagawa ng maraming pag abuso. Maaari pa nilang isipin na sila ay higit sa Diyos, kaya nakapagsasalita at nakagagawa sila ng mga bagay na hindi kailanman magmumula sa isang pusong mapagpakumbaba.

Ngunit ang tukso ng kapangyarihan ay hindi lamang para sa mga namumuno. Kapag hinahayaan din nating manaig ang ating kapangyarihan, impluwensya, katungkulan, katayuan, o maging ang ating pagmamataas, maaari rin tayong makagawa ng mga pasiyang nakasasakit sa kapwa at hindi nagbibigay ng kaluwalhatian sa Diyos.

Sa Ebanghelyo, si Haring Herodes ay isang paalala ng maaaring mangyari kapag pinalitan ng pagmamataas ang pagpapakumbaba. Dahil sa kanyang kayabangan, iniutos niya ang pagpatay kay Juan, na tila ba kaya niyang patahimikin ang tinig ng katotohanan.

Ngunit malinaw na itinuturo sa atin ng Kasulatan na maaaring magtagumpay nang sandali ang mga umaabuso sa kapangyarihang ipinagkatiwala sa kanila, subalit darating ang araw na haharap din sila sa makatarungang paghuhukom ng Diyos. Walang anumang kapangyarihan sa mundong ito ang hihigit sa kapangyarihan ng Diyos na siyang Hari ng mga hari.

Ano, kung gayon, ang aral para sa atin? Napakasimple ngunit napakalalim: huwag nating abusuhin ang anumang kapangyarihan, awtoridad, impluwensya, o pananagutang ipinagkatiwala sa atin ng Diyos.

Sa ating mga tahanan, trabaho, pamayanan, o paglilingkod sa Simbahan, ang bawat biyaya at kakayahang tinanggap natin ay ipinagkaloob upang maglingkod sa kapwa at magbigay ng kaluwalhatian sa Diyos, hindi upang itaas ang ating sarili.

Totoo ang kasabihang, "Kung ano ang ating itinatanim, iyon din ang ating aanihin." Higit pa rito, ipinapaalala sa atin ng Salita ng Diyos na darating ang araw na pananagutan natin sa Kanya kung paano natin ginamit ang mga kaloob na ipinagkatiwala Niya sa atin.

Nawa'y akayin tayo ng Ebanghelyong ito na taimtim na suriin ang ating mga puso. Ginagamit ba natin ang ating impluwensya upang itaas ang ating sarili o upang ilapit ang iba kay Kristo? Namumuno ba tayo nang may kababaang-loob, habag, at katarungan, o hinahayaan nating ang pagmamataas ang magdikta ng ating mga iniisip at ginagawa?

Hilingin natin sa Espiritu Santo na panatilihing mapagpakumbaba ang ating mga puso, dalisay ang ating mga hangarin, at laging nakaayon ang ating buhay sa kalooban ng Diyos. Sapagkat ang tunay na kadakilaan ay hindi nasusukat sa lawak ng ating kapangyarihan, kundi sa katapatan nating maglingkod.

Sa araw na ito, tanungin natin ang ating mga sarili: Ang impluwensyang ipinagkatiwala sa atin ng Diyos—sa ating pamilya, trabaho, komunidad, at Simbahan—ginagamit ba natin ito upang mailapit ang iba sa Kanya, o unti-unti na bang inaagaw ng ating pagmamataas ang trono na nararapat lamang para sa Diyos sa ating mga puso?—Marino J. Dasmarinas

Reflection for Friday July 31 Memorial of Saint Ignatius of Loyola, Priest: Matthew 13:54-58

Gospel: Matthew 13:54-58

Jesus came to his native place and taught the people in their synagogue. They were astonished and said, "Where did this man get such wisdom and mighty deeds? Is he not the carpenter's son' Is not his mother named Mary and his brothers James, Joseph, Simon, and Judas' Are not his sisters all with us' Where did this man get all this?" 

And they took offense at him. But Jesus said to them, "A prophet is not without honor except in his native place and in his own house." And he did not work many mighty deeds there because of their lack of faith.

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Reflection:

Are we quick to disrespect our fellow human beings based on what we think we know about them?

Disrespect was the attitude of Jesus’ townmates toward Him because they were familiar with Him. To them, He was merely the carpenter’s son. They thought they knew Him so well that they belittled and dismissed Him. Their familiarity with Jesus became a barrier that kept them from recognizing the greatness of the One standing before them.

But if we look deeper into their hearts, we can also see that they were filled with envy and hatred toward Jesus. They were envious of the admiration and respect that He received from the people. Envy and hatred are destructive emotions that darken our judgment, harden our hearts, and rob us of the peace and wholeness that God desires for us. When we allow these attitudes to take root within us, we begin to see others through the lens of pride, prejudice, and resentment instead of through the eyes of faith and love.

Jesus knew of His townmates’ envy, disdain, and lack of faith in Him. That is why He did not perform many miracles in His native place. Their unbelief prevented them from fully experiencing the blessings, healing, and grace that He longed to give. How tragic it is when our own pride, preconceived judgments, or refusal to believe become obstacles that keep us from receiving what God desires to do in our lives.

The same invitation is before us today. Jesus continues to come to us—through His Word, the Holy Eucharist, the people around us, and even in the ordinary moments of daily life. Yet familiarity, pride, or prejudice can also blind us to His presence and His work among us. May we ask the Holy Spirit to open our eyes, soften our hearts, and deepen our faith so that we may recognize Jesus for who He truly is and welcome Him with humility, trust, and love.

As we encounter Jesus each day, will we allow familiarity, pride, envy, or prejudice to keep us from Him, or will we open our hearts in faith so that He may perform His transforming work within us?–Marino J. Dasmarinas

Ang Mabuting Balita at Repleksyon Biyernes Hulyo 31 Paggunita kay San Ignacio ng Loyola, pari: Mateo 13:54-58

Mabuting Balita: Mateo 13:54-58

Noong panahong iyon, umuwi si Hesus sa kanyang bayan at nagturo sa sinagoga. Nagtaka ang mga nakarinig sa kanya. Sabi nila, “Saan kumuha ng karunungan ang taong ito? Paano siya nakagagawa ng kababalaghan? Hindi ba ito ang anak ng karpintero? Hindi ba si Maria ang kanyang ina, at sina Santiago, Jose, Simon, at Judas ang kanyang mga kapatid na lalaki?  

At dito nakatira ang kanyang mga kapatid na babae, hindi ba? Saan niya natutunan ang lahat ng ito?” At ayaw nilang kilanlin siya. Kaya’t sinabi ni Hesus sa kanila, “Ang propeta’y iginagalang kahit saan, liban sa kanyang sariling sambahayan.” At dahil sa di nila pagsampalataya hindi siya gumawa roon ng maraming kababalaghan.

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Repleksyon:

Mabilis ba tayong mawalan ng paggalang sa ating kapwa dahil iniisip nating lubos na natin silang kilala?

Ito ang naging saloobin ng mga kababayan ni Jesus. Dahil kilala nila Siya mula pa noong Kanyang kabataan, itinuring na lamang nila Siyang anak ng isang karpintero. Inakala nilang sapat na ang kanilang nalalaman tungkol sa Kanya kaya minamaliit nila Siya at hindi kinilala ang Kanyang tunay na pagkatao. Ang kanilang labis na pagiging pamilyar kay Jesus ang naging hadlang upang makita nila ang kadakilaan ng Diyos na nasa kanilang harapan.

Ngunit kung sisilipin pa natin ang kanilang mga puso, makikita rin natin na puno ang mga ito ng inggit at poot laban kay Jesus. Naiinggit sila sa paghanga, paggalang, at pagtanggap na ibinibigay ng maraming tao sa Kanya.

Ang inggit at poot ay mga mapanirang damdamin na nagpapadilim sa ating paghatol, nagpapatigas sa ating puso, at nag-aalis ng kapayapaan at ganap na kagalingang nais ng Diyos para sa atin. Kapag pinahintulutan nating maghari ang mga ito sa ating puso, unti-unti nating tinitingnan ang ating kapwa sa pamamagitan ng pagmamataas, pagkiling, at paghatol sa halip na sa pamamagitan ng pananampalataya at pag-ibig.

Alam ni Jesus ang inggit, paghamak, at kakulangan ng pananampalataya ng Kanyang mga kababayan. Kaya hindi Siya gumawa ng maraming himala sa Kanyang sariling bayan. Ang kanilang kawalan ng pananampalataya ang naging hadlang upang maranasan nila ang mga pagpapala, pagpapagaling, at biyayang nais Niyang ipagkaloob sa kanila.

Tunay ngang nakalulungkot kapag ang ating pagmamataas, mga maling paghusga, o kakulangan ng pananampalataya ang siyang humahadlang sa pagkilos ng Diyos sa ating buhay.

Ngayon ay patuloy pa ring lumalapit sa atin si Jesus—sa pamamagitan ng Kanyang Salita, ng Banal na Eukaristiya, ng ating mga kapwa, at maging sa mga karaniwang pangyayari sa ating pang-araw-araw na buhay.

Ngunit maaari ring maging hadlang ang ating pagiging kampante, pagmamataas, o pagkiling upang hindi natin makilala ang Kanyang presensya at pagkilos. Nawa'y hilingin natin sa Espiritu Santo na buksan ang ating mga mata, palambutin ang ating mga puso, at patatagin ang ating pananampalataya upang makilala natin si Hesus kung sino Siya talaga at tanggapin Siya nang may kababaang-loob, pagtitiwala, at pag-ibig.

Sa ating pakikipagtagpo kay Jesus sa bawat araw, hahayaan ba nating ang pagiging pamilyar, pagmamataas, inggit, o mapanghusgang pag-iisip ang humadlang sa Kanya? O bubuksan ba natin ang ating mga puso nang may mapagpakumbabang pananampalataya upang malaya Siyang kumilos at maghimala sa ating buhay? –Marino J. Dasmarinas

Reflection for July 30 Thursday of the Seventeenth Week in Ordinary Time: Matthew 13:47-53

Gospel: Matthew13:47-53

Jesus said to the disciples: "The Kingdom of heaven is like a net thrown into the sea, which collects fish of every kind. When it is full they haul it ashore and sit down to put what is good into buckets.

What is bad they throw away. Thus it will be at the end of the age. The angels will go out and separate the wicked from the righteous and throw them into the fiery furnace, where there will be wailing and grinding of teeth."  

"Do you understand all these things?" They answered, "Yes." And he replied, "Then every scribe who has been instructed in the Kingdom of heaven is like the head of a household who brings from his storeroom both the new and the old." When Jesus finished these parables, he went away from there.

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Reflection:

The story is told of a mother who pleaded with her son to straighten out his wayward life. Yet, despite her loving appeals, her son pretended not to hear her pleas. He continued to live in sin until he grew old and eventually died. After his death, the devil immediately whisked him away to hell.

Hell and the devil are not only realities of the life to come; they can also become realities in our present lives. Whenever we choose to remain in sin instead of turning back to God, we distance ourselves from His grace and begin to experience a foretaste of the emptiness, restlessness, and suffering that sin brings.

Our peace of mind gradually fades, our relationships become strained, and our hearts grow weary. At the root of this troubled life is our refusal to let go of sin and embrace the new life that God lovingly offers us.

Our Gospel for today reminds us of the seriousness of our choices: “Thus it will be at the end of the age. The angels will go out and separate the wicked from the righteous and throw them into the fiery furnace, where there will be wailing and grinding of teeth” (Matthew 13:49–50).

There is a price for our sinfulness that we will eventually have to pay. As the saying goes, sin is like a credit card: enjoy now, but pay later. But why should we bear the painful consequences of sin when Jesus continually invites us to repentance, forgiveness, and new life? His mercy is always available to those who humbly return to Him with sincere and contrite hearts.

Today, the Lord lovingly calls each one of us to turn away from whatever separates us from Him. No sin is worth losing the peace, joy, and eternal life that He desires for us. His grace is greater than our failures, and His love is always ready to restore us when we come back to Him.

The question is not whether God is willing to forgive us—He already is. The question is: What sin are we still holding on to that Jesus is asking us to surrender today? Will we continue delaying our return to Him, or will we choose, by His grace, to walk with Him beginning right now? – Marino J. Dasmarinas

Ang Mabuting Balita at Repleksyon Hulyo 30 Huwebes ng Ika-17 Linggo sa Karaniwang Panahon: Mateo 13:47-53

Mabuting Balita: Mateo 13:47-53

Noong panahong iyon, sinabi ni Hesus sa mga tao, "Ang paghahari ng Diyos ay katulad din ng isang malaking lambat na inihagis sa dagat at nakahuli ng sari-saring isda. Nang mapuno ay hinila ito sa pampang. At naupo ang mga tao upang pagbukud-bukurin ang mga isda: tinipon nila sa mga sisidlan ang mabubuti, ngunit itinatapon ang mga walang kwenta.

Gayon din ang mangyayari sa katapusan ng daigdig. Darating ang mga anghel at ihihiwalay ang mga makasalanan sa mga banal, at ihahagis ang mga makasalanan sa maningas na pugon. Doo'y mananangis sila at magngangalit ang kanilang ngipin." 

"Nauunawaan na ba ninyo ang lahat ng ito?" tanong ni Jesus. "Opo," sagot nila. At sinabi niya sa kanila, "Kaya, nga ang bawat eskriba na kumikilala sa paghahari ng Diyos ay tulad ng isang puno ng sambahayan na kumukuha ng mga bagay na bago at luma sa kanyang taguan."

Nang masabi na ni Hesus ang mga talinghagang ito, siya’y umalis doon.

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Repleksyon:

May isang kuwento tungkol sa isang ina na buong pagsusumamong nakiusap sa kanyang anak na talikuran ang kanyang makasalanang pamumuhay. Ngunit nagkunwari lamang ang anak na hindi niya naririnig ang mga pakiusap ng kanyang ina. Kaya ipinagpatuloy niya ang kanyang pamumuhay sa kasalanan hanggang sa siya ay tumanda at tuluyang namatay. Pagkamatay niya, agad siyang dinala ng dimonyo sa impiyerno.

Ang impiyerno at ang dimonyo ay hindi lamang katotohanan na mararanasan sa kabilang buhay; maaari rin nating maranasan ang kanilang mapanirang kapangyarihan sa ating buhay ngayon.

Sa tuwing pinipili nating manatili sa kasalanan sa halip na magbalik-loob sa Diyos, unti-unti tayong lumalayo sa Kanyang biyaya at nakararanas ng patikim ng impiyerno—kawalan ng kapayapaan, kabigatan ng loob, pagkasira ng ating mga ugnayan, at pagkapagod ng ating espiritu. Ang ugat ng ganitong kalagayan ay ang ating pagtangging talikuran ang kasalanan at yakapin ang bagong buhay na buong pagmamahal na iniaalok sa atin ng Diyos.

Maliwanag ang paalala ng ating Ebanghelyo ngayon: “Gayon din ang mangyayari sa katapusan ng panahon. Lalabas ang mga anghel at ihihiwalay ang masasama sa mga matuwid at ihahagis sila sa nagniningas na pugon, kung saan magkakaroon ng pananangis at pagngangalit ng mga ngipin.” (Mateo 13:49–50)

May kabayaran ang ating kasalanan na darating sa takdang panahon. Tulad nga ng kasabihan, ang kasalanan ay parang credit card: masarap gamitin ngayon, ngunit ang kabayaran ay darating sa huli. Ngunit bakit pa natin hahayaang danasin ang mabigat na bunga ng kasalanan kung inaanyayahan naman tayo ni Hesus na magsisi, magbalik-loob, at tumanggap ng bagong buhay? Hindi Siya nagsasawang magpatawad sa sinumang may pusong mapagpakumbaba at tunay na nagsisisi.

Sa araw na ito, muli tayong tinatawagan ng Panginoon na talikuran ang anumang humahadlang sa ating pakikipag-ugnayan sa Kanya. Walang makakatumbas sa kapayapaan, kagalakan, at buhay na walang hanggan na nais Niyang ipagkaloob sa atin. Higit na dakila ang Kanyang biyaya kaysa sa ating mga pagkukulang, at laging bukas ang Kanyang mga bisig upang tayo ay tanggapin at panumbalikin sa Kanya.

Kung gayon, ano ang kasalanang patuloy pa rin nating kinakapitan na hinihiling na ni Jesus na ating isuko sa Kanya? Patuloy pa ba nating ipagpapaliban ang ating pagbabalik-loob, o hahayaan ba nating baguhin tayo ng Kanyang biyaya at magsimulang lumakad kasama Niya—ngayon na, habang may pagkakataon pa?– Marino J. Dasmarinas

Reflection for Wednesday July 29 Memorial of Saints Martha, Mary, and Lazarus: John 11:19-27

Gospel: John 11:19-27

Many of the Jews had come to Martha and Mary to comfort them about their brother [Lazarus, who had died]. When Martha heard that Jesus was coming, she went to meet him; but Mary sat at home. Martha said to Jesus, “Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died. 

But even now I know that whatever you ask of God, God will give you.” Jesus said to her, “Your brother will rise.”  Martha said to him, “I know he will rise, in the resurrection on the last day.” Jesus told her, “I am the resurrection and the life; whoever believes in me, even if he dies, will live, and anyone who lives and believes in me will never die. 

Do you believe this?” She said to him, “Yes, Lord. I have come to believe that you are the Christ, the Son of God, the one who is coming into the world.”

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Reflection:

What compelled Martha to meet Jesus while He was on His way to their house? It was her faith.

Martha was grieving the death of her brother, Lazarus. Yet when she heard that Jesus was on His way to their home to comfort them, her grief was immediately replaced by hope. Martha had deep faith in Jesus, and because He was their close friend, she knew Him well. She trusted that His presence alone could bring comfort, peace, and even the promise of new life.

What do we do when we are sorrowful and in distress? Don't we also run to Jesus? Indeed, we do. The strength that compels us to seek the Lord is fueled by our faith, our hope, and our growing friendship with Him.

We are truly blessed because we know where to turn when we are beset by the many trials and uncertainties of this world. In His presence, we discover a peace that the world cannot give, a hope that does not disappoint, and a love that never fails.

But what about those among us who do not yet know Jesus deeply—or those who have never come to know Him at all? Where do they turn when they are overwhelmed by life's burdens? Many may search for temporary relief in the passing comforts and promises of this world, only to find that these can never satisfy the deepest longings of the human heart. Without knowing Jesus, they may never encounter the lasting hope and true peace that only He can give.

This is where we are called to respond. As followers of Christ, we are invited to become instruments of His light and love for those who are searching, weary, and broken. Through our words, our actions, and the witness of our lives, we can gently lead others to Jesus, so that they too may experience His healing, His mercy, His hope, and His gift of salvation. Our lives may become the very bridge through which someone encounters Christ.

Our faith in Jesus must never be an exclusive faith that we keep only for ourselves. It is a gift meant to be shared. The more we receive His love, the more we are called to reflect that love to others. As we grow closer to Christ, may we also help others draw closer to Him, so that together we may walk in the light of His grace and rejoice in the fullness of His life.

Today, let us ask ourselves: Does our faith simply bring us closer to Jesus, or does it also inspire us to bring others closer to Him? May we never keep the hope we have found in Christ to ourselves, but courageously share it so that others, too, may come to know, love, and follow the One who alone is our hope, our peace, and our salvation.– Marino J. Dasmarinas

Ang Mabuting Balita at Repleksyon Miyerkules Hulyo 29, Paggunita Santa Marta, Santa Maria at San Lazaro: Juan 11:19-27

Mabuting Balita: Juan 11:19-27

Noong panahong iyon, marami sa mga Judio ang dumalaw kina Marta at Maria upang sila’y aliwin. Nang marinig ni Marta na dumarating si Hesus, sinalubong niya ito; ngunit si Maria’y naiwan sa bahay. Sinabi ni Marta, “Panginoon, kung kayo po’y narito, hindi sana namatay ang aking kapatid. 

Ngunit nalalaman kong kahit ngayo’y ibibigay sa inyo ng Diyos ang anumang hingin ninyo sa kanya.” “Muling mabubuhay ang iyong kapatid,” wika ni Hesus. Sumagot si Marta, “Nalalaman ko pong siya’y mabubuhay uli sa huling araw, sa muling pagkabuhay.” Sinabi naman ni Hesus, “Ako ang muling pagkabuhay at ang buhay. 

Ang nananalig sa akin, kahit mamatay ay muling mabubuhay, at sinumang nabubuhay at nananalig sa akin, kahit mamatay ay mabubuhay kailanman. Pinaniniwalaan mo ba ito?” “Opo, Panginoon!” sagot niya. “Nananalig ako sa inyo. Kayo po ang Anak ng Diyos, ang Mesiyas na inaasahang paparito sa sanlibutan.”

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Repleksyon:

Ano ang nagtulak kay Marta upang salubungin si Jesus habang papunta Siya sa kanilang tahanan? Ito ay ang kanyang malalim na pananampalataya.

Matinding dalamhati ang naramdaman ni Marta dahil sa pagkamatay ng kanyang kapatid na si Lazaro. Ngunit nang mabalitaan niyang papunta si Jesus sa kanilang tahanan upang damayan sila, ang kanyang kalungkutan ay agad napalitan ng pag-asa.

Malalim ang kanyang pananampalataya kay Jesus, at dahil malapit na kaibigan nila Siya, tunay niyang kilala ang Panginoon. Nagtitiwala si Marta na ang presensya ni Jesus ay sapat upang magdala ng kaginhawahan, kapayapaan, at maging ng bagong buhay.

Kapag tayo ba ay nalulungkot, nabibigatan, o dumaraan sa matitinding pagsubok, hindi rin ba tayo tumatakbo kay Jesus? Tunay ngang sa Kanya tayo lumalapit. Ang lakas na nagtutulak sa atin upang hanapin ang Panginoon ay nagmumula sa ating pananampalataya, pag-asa, at lumalalim na pakikipagkaibigan sa Kanya.

Napakapalad natin sapagkat alam natin kung saan tayo lalapit kapag tayo ay nababagabag at pinahihirapan ng maraming pagsubok at suliranin sa mundong ito. Sa piling ni Jesus, natatagpuan natin ang kapayapaang hindi kayang ibigay ng sanlibutan, ang pag-asang hindi nabibigo, at ang pag-ibig na hindi kailanman magmamaliw.

Ngunit paano naman ang mga hindi pa lubos na nakakakilala kay Jesus, o yaong hindi pa Siya nakikilala? Kanino sila lalapit kapag sila ay pinanghihinaan ng loob o nabibigatan sa kanilang mga pasanin? Marami sa kanila ang maaaring humanap ng pansamantalang ginhawa sa mga bagay na iniaalok ng mundong ito.

Subalit ang mga ito ay panandalian lamang at hindi kailanman makapupuno sa pinakamalalim na pangangailangan ng ating puso. Kung wala si Jesus, maaaring hindi nila maranasan ang tunay na pag-asa, kapayapaan, at kaligtasang Siya lamang ang makapagbibigay.

Dito tayo tinatawag ng Panginoon. Bilang mga alagad ni Hesus, inaanyayahan tayong maging mga daluyan ng Kanyang liwanag at pag-ibig para sa mga naghahanap, nanghihina, at nasasaktan.

Sa pamamagitan ng ating mga salita, gawa, at patotoo ng ating buhay, maaari nating akayin ang iba kay Jesus upang maranasan din nila ang Kanyang awa, kagalingan, pag-asa, at kaligtasan. Maaaring gamitin ng Diyos ang ating buhay upang maging tulay na magdadala sa iba sa Panginoon.

Ang ating pananampalataya kay Jesus ay hindi dapat maging pananampalatayang itinatago lamang para sa ating sarili. Ito ay isang kaloob na dapat nating ibahagi. Habang lalo nating tinatanggap ang Kanyang pag-ibig, lalo rin tayong tinatawagan na ipamalas ito sa ating kapwa.

Habang lalo tayong lumalapit kay Hesus, nawa'y maisama rin natin ang iba sa paglapit sa Kanya upang sama-sama nating maranasan ang liwanag ng Kanyang biyaya, ang kagalakan ng Kanyang presensya, at ang buhay na walang hanggan na Kanyang ipinangako.

Ngayon, tanungin natin ang ating mga sarili: Ang ating pananampalataya ba ay naglalapit lamang sa atin kay Jesus, o nagiging daan din ba ito upang mailapit natin ang iba sa Kanya? Nawa'y huwag nating sarilinin ang pag-asang natagpuan natin kay Hesus.

Sa halip, magkaroon tayo ng tapang na ibahagi Siya sa iba, upang mas marami pang puso ang makakilala, magmamahal, at susunod sa Kanya. Kung ngayon ay tatawagin tayo ni Jesus upang maging liwanag para sa isang taong nawawalan ng pag-asa, handa ba tayong lumapit, magbahagi, at maging daan upang matagpuan din niya ang Panginoon?– Marino J. Dasmarinas

Reflection for July 28 Tuesday of the Seventeenth Week in Ordinary Time: Matthew 13:36-43

Gospel: Matthew 13:36-43

Jesus dismissed the crowds and went into the house. His disciples approached him and said, "Explain to us the parable of the weeds in the field." He said in reply, "He who sows good seed is the Son of Man, the field is the world, the good seed the children of the Kingdom.

The weeds are the children of the Evil One, and the enemy who sows them is the Devil. The harvest is the end of the age, and the harvesters are angels. Just as weeds are collected and burned up with fire, so will it be at the end of the age. 

The Son of Man will send his angels, and they will collect out of his Kingdom all who cause others to sin and all evildoers. They will throw them into the fiery furnace, where there will be wailing and grinding of teeth. Then the righteous will shine like the sun in the Kingdom of their Father. Whoever has ears ought to hear."

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Reflection:

The story is told of a sinful man who suddenly died. He was immediately ushered by the devil into his fiery kingdom. The man wailed and resisted his immediate entry into Satan's domain, but he could do nothing to change his destiny.

If only he had repented of his sins. If only he had listened to the loving advice of those who urged him to change for the better and embrace God, he would not have ended up in hell. Sadly, he ignored every opportunity to turn back to the Lord until it was too late.

This story reminds us that every day of our lives is a gift from God and an opportunity to choose Him. While we still have breath, His mercy remains available to us. The Lord never grows weary of calling us to repentance, forgiveness, and a life that reflects His love. He patiently sows the seeds of truth, faith, hope, and holiness in our hearts, longing to see them bear abundant fruit.

There are two opposing powers in this world: one is God, and the other is Satan. God continually sows good seeds in us, while Satan sows weeds. From our conception and birth until our final breath, God's deepest desire is to fill our hearts with His grace and lead us to eternal life.

Yet as we journey through life, Satan constantly seeks to draw us away from God through countless temptations and deceptive promises. If we give in to these enticements, they will only lead us toward spiritual ruin and separation from the One who loves us most. Sin may promise temporary pleasure, but it ultimately robs us of the lasting peace and joy that only Christ can give.

Therefore, let us reject sin and anything that leads us away from God. Let us turn our backs on the devil and his countless deceptions, and instead embrace the Lord with trusting and faithful hearts. Even when following Jesus requires sacrifice, perseverance, and courage, let us continue walking in His footsteps, for His way is the way of truth, the way of life, and the path that leads to heaven.

Today, let us prayerfully examine our hearts. Are we allowing God to cultivate the good seeds He has planted within us, or are we permitting the weeds of sin to take root? While the Lord continues to offer us His mercy, may we choose Him without delay, faithfully follow Christ each day, and encourage one another to walk the path that leads to eternal life.

When the Lord calls us home, will He find our hearts surrendered to Him and ready to enter His eternal kingdom?—Marino J. Dasmarinas