Reflection for May 4 Monday of the Fifth Week of Easter: John 14:21-26

Gospel: John 14:21-26

(Jesus said to his disciples) “Whoever has my commandments and observes them is the one who loves me. Whoever loves me will be loved by my Father, and I will love him and reveal myself to him.” Judas, not the Iscariot, said to him, “Master, then what happened that you will reveal yourself to us and not to the world?”

Jesus answered and said to him, “Whoever loves me will keep my word, and my Father will love him, and we will come to him and make our dwelling with him. Whoever does not love me does not keep my words; yet the word you hear is not mine but that of the Father who sent me.

“I have told you this while I am with you. The Advocate, the Holy Spirit whom the Father will send in my name he will teach you everything and remind you of all that I told you.”

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Reflection:

Do we always feel the infinite love of God in our lives? Or are there moments when we begin to doubt, especially in times of weakness, suffering, or limitation?

A few years ago, every Sunday morning, I would visit a middle-aged ailing woman to nourish her with the Body of Christ. After I read to her the Sunday Gospel, she would humbly ask if she could share a short reflection before receiving Holy Communion.

One reflection she shared has remained deeply etched in my heart. She spoke about the love of God in her life. She said that when she was still in the pink of health, she never failed to attend Sunday Mass, faithfully expressing her deep love for God.

But what was even more moving was what she said next: Now that she is sick and no longer able to go to church, she still feels that same love of God. Why? Because God continues to sustain her with His Body, Blood, Soul, and Divinity.

In the Gospel, Jesus assures us: “Whoever loves me will be loved by my Father, and I will love them and reveal myself to them (John 14:21).” These words are not just promises—they are living truths. We see them fulfilled in the life of this woman, who loved God faithfully in her strength and, in her weakness, experienced even more deeply the love that God had always been giving her.

This gently reminds us of a profound truth: our life is short, fragile, and uncertain. While we are still strong and able, we are invited to respond to God’s love—to come to Him, to be present at Holy Mass, and to open our hearts in worship and gratitude.

And when we are no longer able—when sickness, age, or limitation comes—we can still remain united with Him through prayer, through spiritual communion, and by participating in Holy Mass via television or online.

We do not do these things out of obligation, nor because we expect something in return. We do them because we love—because we have first been loved by God in ways deeper than we can fully understand.

The love of God does not diminish in our weakness. If anything, it becomes even more evident, more sustaining, and more personal. The question is not whether God loves us—He always does. The question is whether we allow ourselves to receive that love and respond to it with our whole lives.

So today, let us pause and reflect:

In the strength we have now, even in our future weakness and sickness, how are we choosing to express our love for God—and are we truly allowing His love to transform us? —Marino J. Dasmarinas

Ang Mabuting Balita at Repleksyon Mayo 4 Lunes sa Ikalimang Linggo ng Pasko ng Pagkabuhay: Juan 14:21-26

Mabuting Balita: Juan 14:21-26

Noong panahong iyon, sinabi ni Jesus sa kanyang mga alagad: "Ang tumatanggap sa mga utos ko at tumutupad nito ang siyang umiibig sa akin. Ang umiibig sa akin ay iibigin ng aking Ama; iibigin ko rin siya, at ako'y lubusang magpapakilala sa kanya." Tinanong siya ni Judas hindi ang Iscariote, "Panginoon, bakit po sa amin lamang kayo magpapakilala nang lubusan at hindi sa sanlibutan?" 

Sumagot si Jesus, "Ang umiibig sa akin ay tutupad ng aking mga salita; iibigin siya ng aking ama, at kami'y sasakanya at mananahan sa kanya. Ang hindi umiibig sa akin ay hindi tumutupad sa aking mga salita. Hindi akin ang salitang narinig ninyo, kundi sa Amang nagsugo sa akin. 

"Sinasabi ko sa inyo ang mga bagay na ito samantalang kasama pa ninyo ako. Ngunit ang Patnubay, ang Espiritu Santo na susuguin ng Ama sa pangalan ko, ang siyang magtuturo sa inyo ng lahat ng bagay at magpapaalaala ng lahat ng sinabi ko sa inyo.

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Repleksyon:

Lagi ba nating nadarama ang walang hanggang pag-ibig ng Diyos sa ating buhay? O may mga sandali bang tayo ay nagdududa, lalo na kapag tayo ay nanghihina, nasasaktan, o may pinagdaraanan?

Ilang taon na ang nakalilipas, tuwing Linggo ng umaga, binibisita ko ang isang babaeng may karamdaman upang siya’y mabigyan ng Banal na Kumonyon. Matapos kung basahin sa kanya ang Ebanghelyo ng Linggo, mapagpakumbaba siyang humihiling na magbahagi ng maikling pagninilay bago tumanggap ng Banal na Komunyon.

Isang pagninilay na ibinahagi niya ang tumimo nang malalim sa aking puso. Ikinuwento niya ang tungkol sa pag-ibig ng Diyos sa kanyang buhay. Sabi niya, noong siya ay malakas at nasa mabuting kalusugan pa, hindi siya pumapalya sa pagdalo sa Banal na Misa tuwing Linggo bilang pagpapahayag ng kanyang taos-pusong pag-ibig sa Diyos.

Ngunit higit na nakaaantig ang kanyang sinabi: ngayon na siya ay may sakit at hindi na makapagsimba, patuloy pa rin niyang nadarama ang parehong pag-ibig ng Diyos. Bakit? Sapagkat patuloy siyang pinananatili at pinalalakas ng Diyos sa pamamagitan ng Kanyang Katawan, Dugo, Kaluluwa at Pagka-Diyos.

Sa Ebanghelyo, ipinapaalala sa atin ni Hesus: “Ang umiibig sa akin ay iibigin ng aking Ama; iibigin ko rin siya at ihahayag ko ang aking sarili sa kanya (Juan 14:21).” Ang mga salitang ito ay hindi lamang pangako—ito ay buhay na katotohanan. Nakikita natin ito sa buhay ng babaeng ito: minahal niya ang Diyos sa panahon ng kanyang kalakasan, at sa kanyang kahinaan ay lalo niyang naranasan ang pag-ibig na iyon ng Diyos.

Ipinapaalala nito sa atin ang isang mahalagang katotohanan: ang ating buhay ay maikli, marupok, at walang katiyakan. Habang tayo ay malakas at may kakayahan pa, inaanyayahan tayong tumugon sa pag-ibig ng Diyos—lumapit sa Kanya, dumalo sa Banal na Misa, at ialay ang ating mga puso sa pagsamba at pasasalamat.

At kung dumating ang panahon na tayo ay hindi na makalabas dahil sa katandaan o karamdaman, maaari pa rin tayong makiisa sa Kanya sa pamamagitan ng panalangin, espiritual kumonyon at pakikibahagi sa Misa sa pamamagitan ng telebisyon o online.

Hindi natin ito ginagawa dahil may inaasahan tayong kapalit. Ginagawa natin ito dahil umiibig tayo—dahil una tayong inibig ng Diyos sa paraang hindi natin lubos na mauunawaan.

Ang pag-ibig ng Diyos ay hindi nababawasan sa ating kahinaan. Sa halip, lalo itong nagiging malinaw, mas malapit, at higit na nagbibigay-buhay. Hindi kailanman nawawala ang pag-ibig ng Diyos sa atin—ang tanong ay kung hinahayaan ba nating tanggapin ito at suklian ng ating buong buhay.

Kaya ngayon, sandali tayong magnilay:

Sa lakas na mayroon tayo ngayon, maging sa darating na kahinaan at pagkakasakit, paano natin isinasabuhay ang ating pag-ibig sa Diyos—at hinahayaan ba nating baguhin ng Kanyang pag-ibig ang ating buhay?—Marino J. Dasmarinas

Reflection for May 3 Fifth Sunday of Easter: John 14:1-12

Gospel: John 14:1-12

Jesus said to his disciples: "Do not let your hearts be troubled. You have faith in God; have faith also in me. In my Father's house there are many dwelling places. If there were not, would I have told you that I am going to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back again and take you to myself, so that where I am you also may be. Where I am going you know the way."

Thomas said to him, "Master, we do not know where you are going; how can we know the way?" Jesus said to him, I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. If you know me, then you will also know my Father.

From now on you do know him and have seen him." Philip said to him, "Master, show us the Father, and that will be enough for us." Jesus said to him, "Have I been with you for so long a time and you still do not know me, Philip?

Whoever has seen me has seen the Father. How can you say, 'Show us the Father'? Do you not believe that I am in the Father and the Father is in me? The words that I speak to you I do not speak on my own.

The Father who dwells in me is doing his works. Believe me that I am in the Father and the Father is in me, or else, believe because of the works themselves. Amen, amen, I say to you, whoever believes in me will do the works that I do, and will do greater ones than these, because I am going to the Father."

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Reflection:

To whom do we entrust our destiny in this world?

Do we place it in the loving hands of God, or do we cling tightly to it as if everything depended on us? So often, we find ourselves choosing self-reliance, believing that we are in control.

Yet, where does this mindset lead us? When we insist that our destiny rests only in our own hands, we slowly drift into a way of living where God becomes distant—present in name, but no longer central in our lives. Without even realizing it, we begin to live more as creatures of this world, shaped by its fears and uncertainties, rather than as beloved creations of God, held securely in His grace.

In the Gospel, Jesus gently invites us to something greater—to believe in Him more than we believe in ourselves. This is not to diminish who we are, but to restore the right order in our hearts: that our faith in God comes first, and our trust in ourselves flows from that faith.

As one people, as one family in faith, we are called to let go of our anxieties and surrender them to our almighty God. We are invited to come before Him in prayer—not just occasionally, but continually—seeking His guidance as we journey through the uncertainties of life. For it is only in His hands that we find true rest. It is only in Him that we discover a peace and contentment that no achievement, possession, or worldly assurance can ever give.

Apart from God, we can do nothing. Without Him, we are fragile and easily shaken. But with Him, we are strengthened, guided, and given a hope that reaches beyond this life into eternity.

Are we truly surrendering our destiny into God’s hands, or are we still holding on—afraid to trust Him completely?—MarinoJ. Dasmarinas

Ang Mabuting Balita at Repleksyon Mayo 3 Ikalimang Linggo ng Pasko ng Muling Pagkabuhay: Juan 14:1-12

Mabuting Balita: Juan 14:1-12

Noong panahong iyon: Sinabi ni Hesus sa kanyag mga alagad: "Huwag kayong mabalisa; manalig kayo sa Diyos at manalig din kayo sa akin. Sa bahay ng aking Ama ay maraming silid; kung hindi gayon, sinabi ko na sana sa inyo.

At paroroon ako upang ipaghanda ko kayo ng matitirhan. Kapag naroroon na ako at naipaghanda na kayo ng matitirhan, babalik ako at isasama kayo sa kinaroroonan ko. at alam na ninyo ang daan patungo sa pupuntahan ko." 

Sinabi sa kanya ni Tomas, "Panginoon, hindi po namin alam kung saan kayo pupunta, paano namin malalaman ang daan?" Sumagot si Jesus, "Ako ang daan, ang katotohanan, at ang buhay. Walang makapupunta sa Ama kundi sa pamamagitan ko. Kung ako'y kilala ninyo, kilala na rin ninyo ang aking Ama. Mula ngayon ay kilala na ninyo siya at inyong nakita."

Sinabi sa kanya ni Felipe, "Panginoon, ipakita po ninyo sa amin ang Ama, at masisiyahan na kami." Sumagot si Jesus, "Matagal na ninyo akong kasama, Felipe! Diyata't hindi mo pa ako nakikilala? Ang nakakita sa akin ay nakakita na sa Ama. Bakit mo sinasabing: 'Ipakita mo sa amin ang Ama'? Hindi ka ba naniniwalang ako'y sumasa-Ama at ang Ama'y sumasaakin? 

Ang mga salitang sinasabi ko ay hindi ko sinasabi sa ganang aking sarili. Ang Amang sumasaakin ang gumaganap ng kanyang mga gawain. Maniwala kayo sa akin: ako'y sumasa-Ama at ang Ama'y sumasaakin. Kung ayaw ninyong maniwala sa sinasabi ko, maniwala kayo dahil sa mga gawang ito. Sinasabi ko sa inyo: ang nananalig sa akin ay makagagawa ng ginagawa ko at higit pa rito, sapagkat pupunta na ako sa Ama.

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Repleksyon:

Kanino ba natin ipinagkakatiwala ang ating kapalaran sa mundong ito?

Inilalagak ba natin ito sa mapagmahal na mga kamay ng Diyos, o mahigpit ba natin itong hinahawakan na para bang nasa atin ang lahat ng kontrol? Madalas, tayo ay natutuksong umasa sa sarili, iniisip na tayo ang may hawak ng ating kinabukasan.

Ngunit saan tayo dadalhin ng ganitong kaisipan?

Kapag pinaniwalaan natin na ang ating kapalaran ay nasa sarili lamang nating mga kamay, unti-unti tayong nalalayo sa Diyos. Nagiging bahagi na lamang Siya ng ating mga salita, ngunit hindi na sentro ng ating buhay. Hindi natin namamalayan na mas nagiging alipin tayo ng takot at kawalan ng katiyakan ng mundong ito, sa halip na mamuhay bilang mga nilalang ng Diyos na minamahal at inaalagaan Niya.

Sa Ebanghelyo, inaanyayahan tayo ni Hesus sa mas malalim na pananampalataya—na higit tayong maniwala sa Kanya kaysa sa ating sarili. Hindi nito binabawasan ang ating pagkatao, kundi ibinabalik nito ang tamang kaayusan ng ating puso: na ang ating tiwala sa Diyos ang maging pundasyon ng lahat.

Bilang iisang pamayanan ng pananampalataya, tinatawag tayong bitawan ang ating mga alalahanin at ipagkatiwala ang lahat sa ating makapangyarihang Diyos. Inaanyayahan tayong manalangin—hindi lamang paminsan-minsan, kundi palagian—na humihingi ng Kanyang patnubay sa bawat hakbang ng ating paglalakbay sa buhay.

Sapagkat tanging sa Kanyang mga kamay natin matatagpuan ang tunay na kapahingahan. Tanging sa Kanya natin mararanasan ang kapayapaan at kasiyahang hindi kailanman maibibigay ng mundo.

Kung wala ang Diyos, wala tayong magagawa. Kung wala Siya, tayo ay mahina at madaling matinag. Ngunit kung kasama natin Siya, tayo ay pinalalakas, ginagabayan, at binibigyan ng pag-asang umaabot hanggang sa buhay na walang hanggan.

Tunay ba nating ipinagkakatiwala ang ating kapalaran sa Diyos, o patuloy pa rin ba natin itong kinakapitan—natatakot na lubos na magtiwala sa Kanya?—MarinoJ. Dasmarinas

Reflection for Saturday May 2 Memorial of Saint Athanasius, Bishop and Doctor of the Church: John 14:7-14

Gospel: John 14:7-14

Jesus said to his disciples: "If you know me, then you will also know my Father. From now on you do know him and have seen him.” Philip said to Jesus, “Master, show us the Father, and that will be enough for us.” Jesus said to him, “Have I been with you for so long a time and you still do not know me, Philip? 

Whoever has seen me has seen the Father. How can you say, ‘Show us the Father? Do you not believe that I am in the Father and the Father is in me? The words that I speak to you I do not speak on my own. The Father who dwells in me is doing his works. Believe me that I am in the Father and the Father is in me, or else, believe because of the works themselves. 

Amen, amen, I say to you, whoever believes in me will do the works that I do, and will do greater ones than these, because I am going to the Father. And whatever you ask in my name, I will do, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If you ask anything of me in my name, I will do it.”

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Reflection:

Do we truly believe in the pronouncement of Jesus that He is one with God? We may quickly answer yes—but faith invites us to go deeper than words.

Belief alone is not enough. We are called to move beyond simply knowing and begin living what we profess. Our belief must take flesh in our daily lives, becoming a living faith—a faith that can be seen and felt through our deeds. For when we claim to believe, yet fail to show mercy, compassion, and love, our faith risks becoming empty and lifeless.

Jesus gently but firmly reminds us in the Gospel, “Whoever believes in me will do the works that I do” (John 14:12). This is not just a statement—it is an invitation and a challenge. It calls us to examine our hearts and our actions. Are we truly reflecting the life of Jesus in the way we live? Do we reach out to those who are in need? Do our words bring healing, comfort, and hope to those who are hurting? Or do we sometimes find ourselves quick to judge, to criticize, and to condemn?

It is easy for us to profess our belief in the oneness of Jesus and God. Yet, each day, we are invited to prove this belief—not only in what we say, but in how we love, how we forgive, and how we serve.

As we come before the Lord in silence, let us open our hearts and ask for the grace to live what we believe. May our faith not remain in words alone, but be made visible through lives that reflect His compassion and truth.

Now, let us ask ourselves with honesty and humility: if others were to see our lives today, would they recognize the presence of Jesus in us—or are we still holding back from fully living the faith we profess?—Marino J. Dasmarinas

Ang Mabuting Balita at Repleksyon Sabado Mayo 2 Paggunita kay San Atanasio, obispo at pantas ng Simbahan : Juan 14:7-14

Mabuting Balita: Juan 14:7-14

Noong panahong iyon, sinabi ni Hesus sa kanyang mga alagad: "Kung ako'y kilala ninyo, kilala na rin ninyo ang aking Ama. Mula ngayon ay kilala na ninyo siya at inyong nakita."  

Sinabi sa kanya ni Felipe, "Panginoon, ipakita po ninyo sa amin ang Ama, at masisiyahan na kami." Sumagot si Jesus, "Matagal na ninyo akong kasama, Felipe! Diyata't hindi mo pa ako nakikilala? Ang nakakita sa akin ay nakakita na sa Ama. Bakit mo sinasabing ; 'Ipakita mo sa amin ang Ama'? Hindi ka ba naniniwalang ako'y sumasa-Ama at ang Ama'y sumasaakin?  

Ang mga salitang sinasabi ko ay hindi ko sinasabi sa ganang aking sarili. Ang Amang sumasaakin ang gumaganap ng kanyang mga gawain. Maniwala kayo sa akin: ako'y sumasa-Ama at ang Ama'y sumasa-akin. Kung ayaw ninyong maniwala sa sinasabi ko maniwala kayo dahil sa mga gawang ito.  

Sinasabi ko sa inyo: ang nananalig sa akin ay makagagawa ng ginagawa ko at higit pa rito, sapagkat pupunta na ako sa Ama. At anumang hingin ninyo sa Ama sa aking pangalan ay gagawin ko, upang maparangalan ang Ama sa pamamagitan ng Anak. Gagawin ko ang anumang hihilingin ninyo sa pangalan ko."

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Repleksyon:

Tunay ba nating pinaniniwalaan ang pahayag ni Jesus na Siya ay kaisa ng Diyos? Maaaring mabilis tayong sumagot ng oo—ngunit inaanyayahan tayo ng pananampalataya na lumalim pa kaysa sa salita.

Hindi sapat ang paniniwala lamang. Tayo ay tinatawag na lampasan ang simpleng pag-alam at simulan ang pamumuhay ng ating pinaniniwalaan. Ang ating pananampalataya ay dapat magkatawang-buhay sa ating pang-araw-araw na buhay—isang buhay na pananampalataya na nakikita at nadarama sa ating mga gawa. 

Sapagkat kung sinasabi nating tayo ay naniniwala, ngunit kulang naman tayo sa awa, malasakit, at pag-ibig, nanganganib na maging hungkag at walang buhay ang ating pananampalataya.

Malinaw na paalala sa atin ni Jesus sa Ebanghelyo: “Ang sumasampalataya sa akin ay gagawa rin ng mga gawang aking ginagawa” (Juan 14:12). Ito ay hindi lamang pahayag—ito ay paanyaya at hamon sa bawat isa sa atin. Inaanyayahan tayong suriin ang ating puso at mga kilos.

Naipapakita ba natin sa ating pamumuhay ang buhay ni Jesus? Tinutulungan ba natin ang mga nangangailangan? Ang ating mga salita ba ay nagdudulot ng kaginhawaan, paghilom, at pag-asa sa mga sugatan ang puso? O tayo ba ay mabilis humusga, pumuna, at magparusa?

Napakadali para sa atin na ipahayag na tayo ay naniniwala sa pagkakaisa ni Jesus at ng Diyos. Ngunit araw-araw, hinahamon tayo na patunayan ito—hindi lamang sa ating mga sinasabi, kundi sa paraan ng ating pagmamahal, pagpapatawad, at paglilingkod.

Sa katahimikan ng ating puso, lumapit tayo sa Panginoon at hingin ang biyaya na maisabuhay ang ating pananampalataya. Nawa’y hindi lamang ito manatili sa ating mga salita, kundi makita sa isang buhay na sumasalamin sa Kanyang habag at katotohanan.

Ngayon, tanungin natin ang ating sarili nang may katapatan at kababaang-loob: kung titingnan ng iba ang ating buhay ngayon, makikita ba nila si Jesus sa atin—o may mga bahagi pa rin ng ating buhay na hindi pa natin lubos na isinusuko upang maisabuhay ang pananampalatayang ating ipinapahayag?—Marino J. Dasmarinas

Reflection for May 1 Friday of the Fourth Week of Easter: 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:

Do we sometimes allow unbelief and envy to quietly take root in our hearts? When we see a post from a friend on Facebook showing a life of comfort, success, or abundance, do we find ourselves unsettled—perhaps even envious—without fully realizing it?

In the Gospel, we see how unbelief and envy shaped the hearts of Jesus’ own townmates. Because they were so familiar with Him, they failed to truly recognize Him. To them, He was only the carpenter’s son—someone ordinary, someone they thought they fully understood. And so, their familiarity gave way to doubt, and their doubt closed their hearts to the truth standing right before them.

Yet when we look more deeply, we begin to see that something more was at work within them. Beneath their skepticism may have been envy—envy of the wisdom Jesus spoke, the miracles He performed, and the admiration He received from others. This is a reality we, too, can face in our own lives. When others are blessed, recognized, or lifted up, do we rejoice with them—or do we quietly struggle within ourselves?

Envy and unbelief can cloud our hearts and minds. They can slowly rob us of peace, gratitude, and the ability to see God’s blessings in our own lives. Instead of drawing us closer to the Lord, they create distance—subtly hardening our hearts and weakening our faith.

Jesus knew the hearts of His townmates—their doubt, their envy, and their resistance. Because of this, they were unable to fully receive what He longed to give. How many blessings, how many graces, might they have missed because their hearts were closed?

And what about us? How often might we miss God’s work in our lives because we allow comparison, envy, or doubt to take hold? The Lord continues to move, to bless, and to reveal Himself—but are we open enough to receive Him?

Let us ask the Lord for the grace to cultivate hearts that are humble, trusting, and free from envy. May we learn to rejoice in the blessings of others and remain confident in God’s unique plan for each of us. And above all, may we never allow familiarity or doubt to blind us to the presence and power of Jesus in our lives.

Today, let us pause and reflect: Are we allowing envy and unbelief to close our hearts to Jesus—or are we choosing faith, gratitude, and openness to the many blessings He desires to pour into our lives?—Marino J. Dasmarinas 

Ang Mabuting Balita at Repleksyon Mayo 1 Biyernes sa Ikaapat na Linggo ng Pasko ng Pagkabuhay: 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:

Pinahihintulutan ba natin kung minsan na mag-ugat sa ating mga puso ang kawalan ng pananampalataya at inggit? Kapag nakakakita tayo ng isang post mula sa kaibigan sa Facebook na nagpapakita ng maginhawa at marangyang pamumuhay, nagiging tahimik ba ang ating kalooban—ngunit may bahid ng inggit na hindi natin agad namamalayan?

Sa Ebanghelyo, makikita natin kung paano hinubog ng kawalan ng pananampalataya at inggit ang puso ng mga kababayan ni Hesus. Dahil sa labis na pagiging pamilyar nila sa Kanya, hindi na nila Siya tunay na nakilala. Para sa kanila, Siya ay anak lamang ng karpintero—isang ordinaryong tao na inaakala nilang lubos na nilang kilala. At dahil dito, ang pagiging pamilyar ay nauwi sa pagdududa, at ang pagdududa ay nagsara ng kanilang puso sa katotohanang nasa harapan na nila.

Ngunit kung sisilipin pa natin nang mas malalim, makikita natin na may nakatagong inggit sa kanilang mga puso—inggit sa karunungang ipinapahayag ni Hesus, sa mga himalang Kanyang ginagawa, at sa paghanga ng mga tao sa Kanya. Ito ay isang realidad na nararanasan din natin sa ating buhay. Kapag ang iba ay pinagpapala, kinikilala, at itinataas, tunay ba tayong nagagalak para sa kanila—o may lihim tayong pagkaingit sa ating kalooban?

Ang inggit at kawalan ng pananampalataya ay unti-unting nagpapadilim sa ating isipan at puso. Inaagaw nito ang ating kapayapaan, kabutihan at, at kakayahang makita ang mga biyaya ng Diyos sa ating sariling buhay. Sa halip na ilapit tayo sa Panginoon, inilalayo tayo nito—pinatitigas ang ating puso at pinahihina ang ating pananampalataya.

Alam ni Hesus ang laman ng puso ng Kanyang mga kababayan—ang kanilang pagdududa, inggit, at pagtanggi. Dahil dito, hindi nila lubusang natanggap ang mga biyayang nais Niyang ipagkaloob. Ilan kayang pagpapala at biyaya ang kanilang hindi naranasan dahil isinara nila ang kanilang mga puso?

At tayo naman, gaano kadalas na hindi natin nakikita ang pagkilos ng Diyos sa ating buhay dahil hinahayaan nating manaig ang paghahambing, inggit, o pagdududa? Patuloy na kumikilos ang Panginoon, patuloy Siyang nagpapala at nagpapakilala—ngunit bukas ba ang ating mga puso upang Siya ay tanggapin?

Hilingin natin sa Panginoon ang biyaya ng pusong mapagkumbaba, mapagtiwala, at malaya sa inggit. Matuto nawa tayong makigalak sa tagumpay at biyaya ng iba, at magtiwala sa natatanging plano ng Diyos para sa bawat isa sa atin. Higit sa lahat, huwag nawa nating hayaang ang pagiging pamilyar o pagdududa ang humadlang upang makita natin ang presensya at kapangyarihan ni Hesus sa ating buhay.

Ngayon, sandali tayong tumigil at magnilay: Hinahayaan ba natin ang inggit at kawalan ng pananampalataya na isara ang ating puso kay Hesus—o pipiliin ba nating magtiwala, magpasalamat, at maging bukas sa mga biyayang nais Niyang ibuhos sa ating buhay?—Marino J. Dasmarinas    

Reflection for April 30 Thursday of the Fourth Week of Easter: John 13:16-20

Gospel: John 13:16-20

When Jesus had washed the disciples’ feet, he said to them: “Amen, amen, I say to you, no slave is greater than his master nor any messenger greater than the one who sent him. If you understand this, blessed are you if you do it. I am not speaking of all of you. 

I know those whom I have chosen. But so that the Scripture might be fulfilled, The one who ate my food has raised his heel against me. From now on I am telling you before it happens, so that when it happens you may believe that I AM.

Amen, amen, I say to you, whoever receives the one I send receives me, and whoever receives me receives the one who sent me.”

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Reflection:

What is the weakness of many followers of Jesus? It is this: we sometimes act and behave as if we are greater than Jesus. Quietly, subtly, we allow pride to take root in our hearts. This is the failing of many who claim to follow Him.

But a true follower does not seek to become somebody in the eyes of the world. We do not strive to elevate ourselves on a pedestal of recognition or importance. Instead, we are called to embrace the hidden path—to be content with becoming “nobodies” in the vast ocean of humanity that follows Jesus. In this hiddenness, we find our true purpose.

We serve quietly. We labor faithfully. We give of ourselves without needing applause or acknowledgment, always keeping in our hearts the mission to advance the teachings and goodness of Jesus in this world.

In the Gospel, Jesus washed His disciples’ feet. At first glance, it may seem like a simple act, but beneath it lies a profound and transforming message. The Lord of all chose to kneel. The Master became the servant. In that sacred moment, He showed us that true greatness is found in humility.

Without humility, we cannot bear fruit in our mission. Without humility, our words may sound empty, and our witness may fail to draw others closer to God. But with humility, our lives become living testimonies of Christ’s love.

If we truly call ourselves followers of Jesus, then we are invited—every single day—to walk the path He walked: a path marked not by pride, but by gentleness; not by self-exaltation, but by self-giving love. We are called to remain humble at all times—not arrogant, not overbearing, but quietly faithful, even when others are not.

For in the end, it is humility that separates genuine disciples from those who follow only when it is easy.

So today, let us pause and look within our hearts:

Are we seeking recognition, or are we seeking to serve?

Are we trying to be seen, or are we willing to be hidden for the sake of Christ?

And this is the challenge we must face:

Are we truly willing to lower ourselves so that Jesus may be lifted up in our lives?—Marino J. Dasmarinas

Ang Mabuting Balita at Repleksyon Abril 30 Huwebes sa Ikaapat na Linggo ng Pasko ng Pagkabuhay: Juan 13:16-20

Mabuting Balita: Juan 13:16-20

Nang mahugasan na ni Hesus ang mga paa ng kanyang mga alagad, sinabi niya sa kanila:

Sinasabi ko sa inyo: ang alipin ay hindi dakila kaysa kanyang panginoon, ni ang sinugo kaysa nagsugo sa kanya. Kung nauunawaan ninyo ang mga bagay na ito at inyong gagawin, mapapalad kayo. 

"Hindi para sa inyong lahat ang sinasabi ko; nakikilala ko ang aking mga hinirang. Ngunit dapat matupad ang nasasabi sa Kasulatan, 'Ako'y pinagtataksilan ng taong pinakakain ko. Sinasabi ko ito sa inyo bago pa mangyari upang, kung ito'y mangyari na, ay manalig kayo na 'Ako'y si Ako Nga.' 

Tandaan ninyo: ang tumatanggap sa sinugo ko'y tumatanggap sa akin; at ang tumatanggap sa akin ay tumatanggap sa nagsugo sa akin."

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Repleksyon:

Ano ang kahinaan ng maraming tagasunod ni Jesus? Ito ay an gating pag kilos at pagsasalita na para bang mas dakila pa tayo kaysa sa Kanya. Pinapapasok natin ang pagmamataas sa ating mga puso. Ito ang pagkukulang ng marami sa atin na nagsasabing tayo ay sumusunod sa Kanya.

Ngunit ang tunay na tagasunod ni Jesus ay hindi naghahangad na maging “dakila” sa paningin ng mundo. Hindi natin hinahangad na itaas ang ating sarili sa pedestal ng karangalan o pagkilala.

Sa halip, tinatawag tayo na yakapin ang landas ng kababaan ng loob—ang maging kontento sa pagiging “walang pangalan” sa malawak na karagatan ng sangkatauhan na sumusunod kay Hesus. Sa ganitong pagsasabuhay, natin natatagpuan ang tunay na layunin ng ating buhay.

Tayo ay naglilingkod nang tahimik. Tayo ay nagsusumikap nang tapat. Ibinibigay natin ang ating sarili nang hindi naghihintay ng papuri o pagkilala, habang patuloy nating isinasabuhay ang layuning maipalaganap ang aral at kabutihan ni Jesus sa mundong ito.

Sa Ebanghelyo, hinugasan ni Jesus ang mga paa ng Kanyang mga alagad. Sa unang tingin, maaaring ito ay isang simpleng gawain lamang. Ngunit sa likod nito ay isang malalim at makapangyarihang mensahe. Ang Panginoon ng lahat ay lumuhod. Ang Guro ay naging lingkod. Sa banal na sandaling iyon, ipinakita Niya sa atin na ang tunay na kadakilaan ay matatagpuan sa kababaang-loob.

Kung wala ang kababaang-loob, hindi magiging mabunga ang ating misyon. Kung wala ito, maaaring mawalan ng saysay ang ating mga salita at hindi makahikayat ng iba palapit sa Diyos ang ating patotoo. Ngunit kung may kababaang-loob, ang ating buhay ay nagiging buhay na patunay ng pag-ibig ni Kristo.

Kung sinasabi nating tayo ay mga tagasunod ni Hesus, inaanyayahan tayo araw-araw na tahakin ang landas na Kanyang tinahak—isang landas na hindi puno ng pagmamataas kundi ng kaamuan; hindi ng pag-angat sa sarili kundi ng pag-aalay ng sarili.

Tinatawag tayong manatiling mapagpakumbaba sa lahat ng oras—hindi mayabang, hindi mapagmataas, kundi tapat at mapagkumbaba, kahit na ang iba ay hindi. Sapagkat sa huli, ang kababaang-loob ang naghihiwalay sa tunay na alagad at sa mga sumusunod lamang kapag madali.

Kaya sandali tayong tumigil at silipin ang ating mga puso:

Hinahanap ba natin ang pagkilala, o ang pagkakataong makapaglingkod?

Nais ba nating mapansin, o handa ba tayong manatiling tahimik at walang mukha alang-alang sa Panginoon?—Marino J. Dasmarinas

Reflection for Wednesday April 29 Memorial of Saint Catherine of Siena, Virgin and Doctor of the Church: John 12:44-50

Gospel: John 12:44-50

Jesus cried out and said, “Whoever believes in me believes not only in me but also in the one who sent me, and whoever sees me sees the one who sent me. I came into the world as light, so that everyone who believes in me might not remain in darkness. And if anyone hears my words and does not observe them, I do not condemn him, for I did not come to condemn the world but to save the world. 

Whoever rejects me and does not accept my words has something to judge him: the word that I spoke, it will condemn him on the last day, because I did not speak on my own, but the Father who sent me commanded me what to say and speak.  And I know that his commandment is eternal life. So what I say, I say as the Father told me.”

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Reflection:

The story is told about a sinful man whose mother never grew tired of pleading with him to leave behind his sinful life. With patience, love, and hope, she continued to reach out to him. After many years, her perseverance bore fruit—the man chose to renew his life. In time, he was transformed and eventually found success.

In today’s Gospel, we are reminded of a truth that touches the depths of our hearts: Jesus is patient with all of us. He says, “If anyone hears my words and does not observe them, I do not condemn him, for I did not come to condemn the world but to save the world” (John 12:47). These words gently reassure us that no matter who we are or how far we may have fallen, hope is never lost.

Jesus does not dwell on our sinfulness, no matter how serious it may be. He came not to judge us, but to save us. While we may be quick to condemn, Jesus meets us with mercy. While we may be quick to judge, He responds with patience. Again and again, He gives us opportunities to return, to begin anew, and to experience His transforming love.

As we receive this mercy, we are also called to reflect it in our lives. Instead of condemning or judging our fellow men and women, let us become instruments of hope. Let us offer encouragement, extend forgiveness, and choose compassion—even when it is difficult. For all of us are sinners, and all of us are held within the boundless mercy and love of God.

Let us take a moment to examine our hearts. Have we been quick to judge? Have we spoken words that condemn rather than heal? In humility, let us ask Jesus to soften our hearts and free us from our judgmental tendencies.

And as we continue to receive His patience and mercy each day, may we ask ourselves: Are we willing to become living reflections of His compassion—choosing to forgive, to understand, and to love others as He loves us?—Marino J. Dasmarinas

Ang Mabuting Balita at Repleksyon Miyerkules Abril 29 Paggunita kay Santa Catalina de Siena, dalaga at pantas ng Simbahan: Juan 12:44-50

Mabuting Balita: Juan 12:44-50

Noong panahong iyon, malakas na sinabi ni Jesus,"Ang nananalig sa akin ay hindi lamang sa akin nananalig, kundi sa nagsugo sa akin. At ang nakakita sa akin ay nakakita sa kanya. Ako'y naparito bilang ilaw ng sanlibutan, upang hindi manatili sa kadiliman ang nananalig sa akin.

Kung mapakinggan ninuman ang aking salita ngunit hindi niya tuparin ito, hindi ko siya hahatulan. Sapagkat naparito ako hindi upang hatulan ang sanlibutan kundi upang iligtas ito. May hahatol sa sinumang magtakwil sa akin at hindi tumanggap sa aking mga salita; ang salitang ipinahayag ko ang hahatol sa kanya sa huling araw.

Sapagkat hindi ako nagsalita sa ganang sarili ko lamang, kundi ang Amang nagsugo sa akin ang siyang nag-utos kung ano ang aking sasabihin at ipahahayag. At alam kong ang kanyang utos ay nagbibigay ng buhay na walang hanggan. Kaya't ang ipinasasabi ng Ama ang siya kong sinasabi."

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Repleksyon:

May isang kuwento tungkol sa isang makasalanang lalaki na hindi kailanman pinagsawaan ng kanyang ina na pakiusapan siyang iwan ang kanyang makasalanang pamumuhay. Sa kabila ng mahabang panahon, nanatili ang kanyang ina sa pagtitiyaga, pagmamahal, at pag-asa.

At sa wakas, nagbunga ang kanyang walang sawang pagsusumamo—pinili ng lalaki na baguhin ang kanyang buhay. Sa paglipas ng panahon, siya ay tunay na nagbago at kalaunan ay naging matagumpay.

Sa Ebanghelyo ngayon, pinaaalalahanan tayong lahat ng isang katotohanang tumatagos sa ating puso: ang ating Panginoong Hesus ay mapagtiis at mapagpasensya sa ating lahat. Sinabi Niya, “Kung ang sinuman ay nakikinig sa aking mga salita ngunit hindi ito sinusunod, hindi ko siya hinahatulan; sapagkat naparito ako hindi upang hatulan ang sanlibutan kundi upang iligtas ito” (Juan 12:47). Ang mga salitang ito ay nagbibigay sa ating lahat ng pag-asa—anumang ating pinagdadaanan at gaano man kabigat ang ating mga kasalanan.

Hindi nakatuon si Hesus sa ating pagkukulang at kasalanan, gaano man ito kalalim o kabigat. Siya ay naparito hindi upang tayo’y husgahan, kundi upang tayo’y iligtas. Kung tayo ay madaling humatol, si Hesus ay handang umunawa. Kung tayo ay mabilis magparusa, si Hesus ay laging handang magpatawad. Paulit-ulit Niya tayong inaanyayahan na magbalik-loob, magsimulang muli, at maranasan ang Kanyang nagbabagong pag-ibig.

Ngayon, habang patuloy nating tinatanggap ang Kanyang awa at habag, inaanyayahan din tayong ipamalas ito sa ating kapwa. Sa halip na manghusga piliin nating magbigay ng pag-asa. Mag-alok tayo ng pag-unawa, magpatawad nang bukal sa puso, at magmahal kahit hindi madali. Sapagkat tayong lahat ay nagkakasala, at tayong lahat ay patuloy na inaabot ng walang hanggang awa at pag-ibig ng Diyos.

Sandali tayong tumigil at silipin ang ating mga puso. Tayo ba ay naging mapanghusga? May mga salita ba tayong nasabi na nakasakit sa halip na magpagaling? Boung kababaang-loob na hingin natin sa Panginoong Hesus na baguhin ang ating puso at palayain tayo sa ating mapanghusgang pag-iisip.

At habang patuloy nating nararanasan ang Kanyang dakilang awa, tanungin natin ang ating sarili: Handa ba tayong maging daluyan ng Kanyang habag—magpatawad, umunawa, at magmahal sa kapwa tulad ng pagmamahal Niya sa atin?—Marino J. Dasmarinas

Reflection for April 28 Tuesday of the Fourth Week of Easter: John 10:22-30

Gospel: John 10:22-30

The feast of the Dedication was taking place in Jerusalem. It was winter. And Jesus walked about in the temple area on the Portico of Solomon. So the Jews gathered around him and said to him, “How long are you going to keep us in suspense? If you are the Christ, tell us plainly.” Jesus answered them, “I told you and you do not believe.  

The works I do in my Father’s name testify to me. But you do not believe, because you are not among my sheep. My sheep hear my voice; I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish. No one can take them out of my hand. My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all, and no one can take them out of the Father’s hand. The Father and I are one.”

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Reflection:

How can we have a true and personal encounter with Jesus?

We are invited to abide by what He tells us in Scripture—to remain in His Word, to trust in His voice, and to anchor our lives in His truth. When He tells us that He and the Father are one, we are called to believe—not with hesitation, but with a humble and trusting heart. For His words are never empty; they are living, powerful, and always confirmed by the fullness of Scripture.

What, then, sets us apart as believers? When we open our hearts in faith, we receive the fullness of the grace and power that flow from Jesus. Our lives begin to change. Our faith grows deeper and stronger. And we, in turn, become instruments of His love and goodness, bringing light and hope into our families, our communities, and our everyday encounters.

Yet we must also reflect honestly: when we take Jesus lightly or fail to truly believe, we miss out on these graces. Our faith weakens, and we become more vulnerable to doubt, fear, and the many forces that pull us away from God. Without a living faith, we struggle to stand firm.

So what is the path for us to truly believe? It begins with humility. We are called to bow our hearts before Jesus, to accept with faith every word He speaks to us in Scripture, and to faithfully encounter Him in Holy Mass—especially on Sundays, where He nourishes us with His presence. In these moments, we do not merely observe; we participate, we listen, and we are transformed.

As we take these steps, however small they may seem, something new begins within us. A renewed life unfolds—a life rooted in Christ, sustained by His grace, and guided by His love.

Jesus is always reaching out to us, patiently inviting us into a deeper relationship with Him. The question is no longer whether He is present—but whether we are willing to respond.

Will we humble ourselves, believe in His Word without doubt, and allow Him to truly transform our lives starting today?—Marino J. Dasmarinas  

Ang Mabuting Balita at Repleksyon Abril 28 Martes sa Ikaapat na Linggo ng Pasko ng Pagkabuhay: Juan 10:22-30

Mabuting Balita: Juan 10:22-30

Taglamig na noon. Kasalukuyang ipinagdiriwang sa Jerusalem ang Pista ng Pagtatalaga ng templo. Naglalakad si Jesus sa templo, sa Portiko ni Solomon. Pinaligiran siya ng mga Judio at sinabi sa kanya, "Hanggang kailan mo kami pag-aalinlanganin? 

Kung ikaw ang Cristo, sabihin mo na nang tiyakan." Sumagot si Jesus, "Sinabi ko na sa inyo, ngunit ayaw ninyong maniwala. Ang mga ginagawa ko sa ngalan ng aking Ama ay nagpapatotoo tungkol sa akin. Ngunit ayaw ninyong maniwala, sapagkat hindi kayo kabilang sa aking mga tupa.  

Nakikinig sa akin ang aking mga tupa; nakikilala ko sila, at sumusunod sila sa akin. Binibigyan ko sila ng buhay na walang hanggan, at kailanma'y hindi sila mapapahamak; hindi sila maaagaw sa akin ninuman. Ang aking Ama, na nagbigay sa kanila sa akin, ay lalong dakila sa lahat at hindi sila maaagaw ninuman sa aking Ama. Ako at ang Ama ay iisa."

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Repleksyon:

Paano nga ba tayo magkakaroon ng tunay at personal na pakikipagtagpo kay Jesus? 

Inaanyayahan tayong sumunod at manatili sa Kanyang Salita—makinig sa Kanyang tinig at itatag ang ating buhay sa Kanyang katotohanan.

Kapag sinasabi Niya na Siya at ang Ama ay iisa, tinatawag tayong maniwala—hindi nang may pag-aalinlangan, kundi may mapagkumbaba at buong pusong pagtitiwala. Sapagkat ang Kanyang mga salita ay hindi kailanman walang laman; ang mga ito ay buhay, makapangyarihan, at pinatutunayan ng kabuuan ng Banal na Kasulatan.

Ano, kung gayon, ang nagtatangi sa atin bilang mga nananampalataya? Kapag binubuksan natin ang ating mga puso sa pananampalataya, tinatanggap natin ang kapuspusan ng biyaya at kapangyarihang nagmumula kay Jesus.

Unti-unting nababago ang ating buhay. Lalong tumitibay at lumalalim ang ating pananampalataya. At tayo mismo ay nagiging kasangkapan ng Kanyang pag-ibig at kabutihan—nagdadala ng liwanag at pag-asa sa ating pamilya, komunidad, at sa bawat araw ng ating pakikisalamuha.

Ngunit inaanyayahan din tayong magsuri ng sarili: kapag hindi natin Siya lubos na pinaniniwalaan o kapag minamaliit natin si Jesus, nawawala sa atin ang mga biyayang ito.

Nanghihina ang ating pananampalataya, at nagiging mas bukas tayo sa pagdududa, takot, at sa iba’t ibang puwersang humihila sa atin palayo sa Diyos. Kung walang buhay na pananampalataya, nahihirapan tayong manatiling matatag.

Ano, kung gayon, ang landas upang tayo ay tunay na maniwala? Nagsisimula ito sa pagpapakumbaba. Tinatawag tayong ilapit ang ating puso kay Jesus, tanggapin nang may pananampalataya ang bawat salitang Kanyang sinasabi sa atin sa Banal na Kasulatan, at maging tapat sa pakikipagtagpo sa Kanya sa Banal na Misa—lalo na tuwing Linggo, kung saan tayo ay Kanyang pinupuspos ng Kanyang presensya. Sa mga sandaling ito, hindi lamang tayo nakikibahagi—tayo ay nakikinig, tumutugon, at unti-unting binabago.

Sa bawat hakbang na ginagawa natin, gaano man kaliit, may bagong umuusbong sa ating kalooban—isang panibagong buhay na nakaugat kay Kristo, pinapalakas ng Kanyang biyaya, at ginagabayan ng Kanyang pag-ibig.

Patuloy tayong inaabot ni Jesus at inaanyayahan sa mas malalim na ugnayan sa Kanya. Hindi ang tanong ay kung Siya ba ay naroroon—kundi kung tayo ba ay handang tumugon.

Magpapakumbaba ba tayo, maniniwala nang walang pag-aalinlangan, at hahayaan si Jesus na tunay na baguhin ang ating buhay simula ngayon?—Marino J. Dasmarinas

Reflection for April 27 Monday of the Fourth Week of Easter: John 10:11-18

Gospel: John 10:11-18

Jesus said: “I am the good shepherd. A good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. A hired man, who is not a shepherd and whose sheep are not his own, sees a wolf coming and leaves the sheep and runs away, and the wolf catches and scatters them.

This is because he works for pay and has no concern for the sheep. I am the good shepherd, and I know mine and mine know me, just as the Father knows me and I know the Father; and I will lay down my life for the sheep. I have other sheep that do not belong to this fold.

These also I must lead, and they will hear my voice, and there will be one flock, one shepherd. This is why the Father loves me, because I lay down my life in order to take it up again. No one takes it from me, but I lay it down on my own. I have power to lay it down, and power to take it up again. This command I have received from my Father.”

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Reflection:

Who is shepherding us right now?

Is it our fear of the unknown, or is it Jesus?

If the Lord is truly shepherding us, then we are in good hands. We need not be afraid of what lies ahead, for we are under His loving care. Whatever may come, we can endure, because Jesus Himself watches over us and protects us. A good shepherd desires nothing but the good of his sheep. He does not abandon them in danger; instead, he willingly offers his own life for their sake.

In our modern world, however, many things try to take the place of the shepherd in our lives. These are the things that capture our attention, slowly shape our desires, and eventually begin to control us. At times, we may not even realize that we have already allowed them to lead us.

For example, money can become our shepherd if we allow greed to take root in our hearts. When this happens, money no longer serves us—we begin to serve it. It can quietly take control of our priorities, influence our decisions, and even distance us from the people we love. In the end, it may harm not only us but also our family.

Our work, too, can become our shepherd. This happens when we allow it to consume us—when we give so much of ourselves to our responsibilities that we hardly have time left for our loved ones. Little by little, relationships weaken, and the family, which should be our source of strength and love, begins to suffer.

Even our ambition to become wealthy or successful can act as a false shepherd. While these may seem good on the surface, they can lead us away from what truly matters if we allow them to take first place in our lives. Indeed, there are many “false shepherds” competing for our attention, each promising fulfillment but often leaving us empty.

And yet, in the midst of all these, Jesus gently calls out to us. He does not force Himself upon us, but lovingly invites us: “I am the Good Shepherd” (John 10:11), and “I lay down my life for you” (John 10:15). He alone knows us completely. He alone leads us to what is truly good, true, and life-giving.

Why, then, do we hesitate to entrust our lives to Him?

Perhaps we can begin by opening our hearts to His Word—by reading the life and teachings of Jesus in the Bible. Perhaps we can deepen our encounter with Him by participating more fully in the Holy Mass, where He gives Himself to us in a very real and personal way.

We may have already allowed money, work, or worldly ambitions to shepherd our lives. But if we are honest with ourselves, have these truly given us what we are longing for? Have they brought us lasting peace, deep joy, and genuine contentment?

Who is truly leading us—and are we ready to surrender our lives completely to the Good Shepherd who knows us, loves us, and gave His life for us?—Marino J. Dasmarinas