Reflection for Wednesday June 11 Memorial of Saint Barnabas, Apostle: Matthew 5:17-19

Gospel: Matthew 5:17-19

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

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

+ + + + + + +

Reflection:

What will happen to us if we always strive to observe the Ten Commandments (Exodus 20:2–17) and the two greatest commandments that Jesus gave us (Matthew 22:36–40)? Surely, we would draw closer to Jesus, grow in our faith, and experience the peace that only He can give.

This is the beautiful promise that awaits those who lovingly follow the laws of God. Without sincere obedience to His commandments, we cannot expect to enjoy an intimate relationship with Him. Just take a moment to reflect on those who choose to live apart from God’s commandments—or even examine your own heart during the times when you fall short.

What kind of life do you see? Isn’t it often marked by confusion, restlessness, and a lack of peace?

 

Indeed, the key to deep friendship with God is our faithful observance of His Word. But we are human—fragile and prone to weakness. We stumble, we sin, and sometimes we turn away. And in those moments, we become distanced from the warmth of God's love.

Yet in His great mercy, Jesus gave us the gift of the Sacrament of Reconciliation—a sacred refuge for our weary and repentant hearts. Whenever we fall, we can rise again through His grace. But let us not take this gift lightly. We must not say, “I will sin because I can confess later.” Such an attitude wounds the heart of our loving God.

Let us always remember: sin separates us from His love. That is why we must strive, day by day, to remain within the shelter of His presence. We must reject sin in all its forms and appearances, and instead choose holiness—because that is the only path to true peace, both in this life and in eternity. – Marino J. Dasmarinas

Reflection for June 10 Tuesday of the Tenth Week in Ordinary Time: Matthew 5:13-16

Gospel: Matthew 5:13-16

Jesus said to his disciples: “You are the salt of the earth. But if salt loses its taste, with what can it be seasoned? It is no longer good for anything but to be thrown out and trampled underfoot. You are the light of the world. A city set on a mountain cannot be hidden. 

Nor do they light a lamp and then put it under a bushel basket; it is set on a lampstand, where it gives light to all in the house. Just so, your light must shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your heavenly Father.

+ + + + + + +

Reflection:

The story is told about a young doctor who topped the medical board exam. Being a board topnotcher, she received an offer from a multinational pharmaceutical company. She was presented with a generous signing bonus, offered a high salary, and—to top it all—given the opportunity to pursue further studies abroad. The offer was indeed tempting, a dream come true for many.

Yet, to everyone’s surprise, she graciously declined the attractive financial windfall and benefits. When asked why, her humble yet profound response was this: "I intend to go back to my home province and make a big positive difference in the lives of my poor province mates, where I also belonged once upon a time."

In today’s Gospel, Jesus tells us: “You are the salt of the earth, and you are the light of the world” (Matthew 5:13–14). These are not just beautiful words—they are a divine calling. What does it mean to be salt and light in this world? It means living a life that is purposeful, selfless, and rooted in love. A life not centered on personal success alone, but one that radiates goodness, especially to the poor and those in need.

Oftentimes, we become too focused on ourselves. We adopt a me first mentality—pursuing goals for personal gain, believing that we will give back only after we've secured our own comfort. But Jesus didn’t say, “Fulfill your dreams first. Become rich and successful. Then go and serve others.” No. His message is clear and immediate: Be salt. Be light. Now.

We are called to be a blessing to others not tomorrow, not when it's convenient, but today—in this very moment. Wherever we are, whatever our circumstances, we are invited to shine Christ’s light and preserve goodness in the world like salt that seasons and heals.

Let us then ask ourselves: Am I being salt and light where God has placed me? Am I living only for myself, or am I allowing God to use my life to bless others?

May the Lord give us the grace to say “yes” to this calling each day—to be His salt and His light in a world so hungry for both.— Marino J. Dasmarinas

Reflection for Monday June 9 Memorial of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of the Church: John 19:25-34

Gospel: John 19:25-34

Standing by the cross of Jesus were his mother and his mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary of Magdala. When Jesus saw his mother and the disciple there whom he loved, he said to his mother, “Woman, behold, your son.” Then he said to the disciple, “Behold, your mother.” And from that hour the disciple took her into his home.  

After this, aware that everything was now finished, in order that the Scripture might be fulfilled, Jesus said, “I thirst.”  There was a vessel filled with common wine. So they put a sponge soaked in wine on a sprig of hyssop and put it up to his mouth. When Jesus had taken the wine, he said, “It is finished.” And bowing his head, he handed over the spirit.  

Now since it was preparation day, in order that the bodies might not remain on the cross on the sabbath, for the sabbath day of that week was a solemn one, the Jews asked Pilate that their legs be broken and they be taken down. 

So the soldiers came and broke the legs of the first     and then of the other one who was crucified with Jesus. But when they came to Jesus and saw that he was already dead, they did not break his legs, but one soldier thrust his lance into his side, and immediately Blood and water flowed out.

+ + + + + + +

Reflection:

How do you feel after finishing a worthy undertaking?

You feel good, fulfilled, and triumphant—no matter how challenging the journey was. This must have been what Jesus felt when He uttered His final words on the cross: “It is finished.” It was not a cry of defeat, but a cry of victory. At last, the suffering is over. At last, the mission is fulfilled. At last, love has triumphed.

At that sacred moment, Jesus had crushed the voice of the enemy who relentlessly whispered to Him to turn away from His mission. He silenced every temptation and overcame every obstacle meant to hinder His salvific mission. Through His obedience and sacrifice, He redeemed us—sinful humanity—from the bondage of sin.

Yet, as for us, our mission is not yet finished. We are still on this earthly pilgrimage, still walking the narrow path that leads to eternal life. We continue to battle the many temptations and spiritual forces that whisper in our ears, trying to lead us astray from God's grace.

So we ask ourselves: What must we do so that one day, we too can say with conviction, “It is finished”?

We must remain faithful to the Lord until the end of our days. We must persevere in prayer, resist sin, and walk in the light of Christ, no matter how dark the road may seem. And when our time in this world comes to a close, may we look back and say: “It is finished.”

Not because we were perfect, but because we eventually repented. Because we did not allow the enemy to take even an inch of space in our hearts. Because we followed Jesus until the very end.

When the sun sets on our earthly life, will we be able to say, “It is finished,” not with fear, but with peace? Will we be able to say: It is finished, Lord. I have fought the good fight. I have kept the faith. I have defeated the demons that sought to take me away from you. I am Yours, now and forever. — Marino J. Dasmarinas

Reflection for Sunday June 8, The Solemnity of Pentecost: John 20:19-23

Gospel: John 20:19-23

On the evening of that first day of the week, when the doors were locked, where the disciples were, for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood in their midst and said to them, “Peace be with you.” When he had said this, he showed them his hands and his side. The disciples rejoiced when they saw the Lord. Jesus said to them again, “Peace be with you.   

As the Father has sent me, so I send you.” And when he had said this, he breathed on them and said to them, “Receive the Holy Spirit. Whose sins you forgive are forgiven them, and whose sins you retain are retained.”

+ + + + + + +

Reflection:

The story is told of two brothers who lived in a remote rural area. These two had very different ways of life. Brother A was a good-natured man—kind-hearted, always willing to help his neighbors. He was humble, prayerful, and actively involved in their local church community.

Brother B, on the other hand, was the opposite. He was rude, addicted to vices, and full of pride. He didn’t attend church and would rather spend time with his drinking buddies than go to Sunday Mass.

Because of Brother A’s gentle and godly character, the people in their community naturally gravitated toward him. Whenever there was a conflict, they would seek his help to make peace. Every week, they would go to his house and ask him to guide and lead their prayer meetings.

Now, how does the Holy Spirit work in our lives? How does He make His presence known to us? This is a question many of us quietly carry in our hearts. Often, we long for a sign—something tangible that tells us the Holy Spirit is with us. But for many, that moment of certainty seems elusive.

The truth is this: God the Holy Spirit reveals Himself most clearly in the lives of those who walk humbly with Him—those who live in a way that is pleasing to God. The Spirit moves, like the people who were drawn to Brother A, toward hearts that are kind, prayerful, and obedient. If we desire to experience the Holy Spirit more fully, we must strive to live according to God’s Word.

In the Gospel this Sunday, we find the disciples hiding behind locked doors, afraid of those who were persecuting them. But what else were they doing there? Surely, they were also praying—asking for Jesus’ protection and strength. And their prayers did not go unanswered.

In the quiet of that locked room, Jesus appeared among them. He didn’t rebuke them for their fear. Instead, He lovingly said, “Peace be with you.” Not once, but twice. He gave them His peace—a peace that could calm any fear, a peace that promised His abiding presence. Then, He breathed on them and said, “Receive the Holy Spirit.”

The peace of God and the presence of the Holy Spirit are gifts that come to us when we live as faithful and prayerful followers of Christ. This divine peace does not mean we will no longer face problems or trials. Rather, it means that in the midst of life’s storms, we can remain calm, anchored in the assurance that the Holy Spirit is with us.

Do you feel His presence today? Do you sense His gentle guidance, His calming voice, His quiet strength? – Marino J. Dasmarinas

Ang Mabuting Balita at Repleksyon para sa Linggo Hunyo 8, Linggo ng Pentekostes: Juan 20:19-23

Mabuting Balita: Juan 20:19-23

Kinagabihan ng Linggo ding iyon, ang mga alagad ay nagkakatipon. Nakapinid ang mga pinto ng bahay na kanilang pinagtitipunan dahil sa takot nila sa mga Judio. Dumating si Jesus at tumayo sa gitna nila. "Sumainyo ang kapayapaan!" sabi niya. Pagkasabi nito, ipinakita niya ang kanyang mga kamay at ang kanyang tagiliran. Tuwang-tuwa ang mga alagad nang makita ang Panginoon.  

Sinabi na naman ni Jesus, "Sumainyo ang kapayapaan! Kung paanong sinugo ako ng Ama, gayon din naman, sinusugo ko kayo." Pagkatapos, sila'y hiningahan niya at sinabi, "Tanggapin ninyo ang Espiritu Santo. Ang patawarin ninyo sa kanilang mga kasalanan ay pinatawad na nga; ang hindi ninyo patawarin ay hindi nga pinatawad."

+ + + + + + +

Repleksyon:

May kwento tungkol sa dalawang magkapatid na naninirahan sa isang liblib na lugar sa kanayunan. Magkaibang-magkaiba ang kanilang mga pamumuhay. Si Kapatid A ay isang mabait at mahinahong tao—may malasakit, laging handang tumulong sa kaniyang mga kapitbahay. Siya ay mapagpakumbaba, paladasal, at aktibong kasapi ng kanilang simbahan. 

Samantalang si Kapatid B ay kabaligtaran. Hindi mabuti ang kanyang pag-uugali, alipin sya ng bisyo, at punong-puno ng kayabangan. Hindi siya nagsisimba at mas pinipili niyang makisama sa kaniyang mga kainuman kaysa dumalo sa Banal na Misa tuwing Linggo. 

Dahil sa kabutihan at maka-Diyos na pag-uugali ni Kapatid A, ang mga tao sa kanilang komunidad ay kusang-loob na lumalapit at nagtitiwala sa kanya. Kapag may alitan sa lugar, siya ang tinatakbuhan upang mamagitan at magpayapa. Linggo-linggo rin siyang dinadalaw sa kaniyang tahanan ng kanyang mga kabarangay upang imbitahang maging tagapamuno sa kanilang mga panalanging pagtitipon. 

Paano nga ba kumikilos ang Banal na Espiritu Santo sa ating mga buhay? Paano Niya ipinadarama ang Kaniyang presensya? Ito ang tanong ng marami sa atin. Madalas, tayo ay naghahangad ng tanda—isang bagay na nahahawakan o nararamdaman na magsasabing kasama natin ang Banal na Espiritu Santo. Ngunit sa marami, tila mailap ang sandaling ito ng katiyakan. 

Ang katotohanan ay ito: Ipinapahayag ng Diyos na Banal na Espiritu Santo ang Kaniyang sarili sa buhay ng mga taong lumalakad nang may kababaang-loob—sa mga taong namumuhay nang naaayon sa kagustuhan ng Diyos. Kumikilos ang Espiritu Santo katulad ng mga taong lumapit kay Kapatid A—dahil siya ay may pusong mabuti, mapanalanginin, at masunurin. Kung hangad nating maranasan ang presensya ng Banal na Espiritu Santo nang lubos, dapat tayong magsikap na mamuhay ayon sa Salita ng Diyos. 

Sa Ebanghelyo ngayong Linggo, makikita natin ang mga alagad na nagkukubli sa likod ng mga nakasaradong pinto ng isang bahay, natatakot sa mga taong umuusig sa kanila. Ngunit bukod sa pagtatago, ano pa kaya ang kanilang ginagawa? Tiyak na sila rin ay nananalangin—humihingi ng proteksyon at lakas mula kay Jesus. At hindi sila binigo ng Panginoon. 

Sa katahimikan ng silid na iyon, nagpakita si Jesus sa gitna nila. At buong pag-ibig Niyang sinabi, “Kapayapaan ang sumainyo.” Hindi lamang isang beses, kundi dalawang ulit. 

Ipinagkaloob Niya ang Kaniyang kapayapaan—isang kapayapaang kayang tangalin ang anumang takot, isang kapayapaang nagpapahayag ng Kaniyang patuloy na presensya. Pagkatapos, hiningahan Niya sila at sinabi, “Tanggapin ninyo ang Banal na Espiritu Santo.” 

Ang kapayapaan ng Diyos at ang presensya ng Banal na Espiritu ay mga kaloob na dumarating sa atin kapag tayo’y namumuhay bilang mga tapat na tagasunod ni Kristo. Ang kapayapaang ito ay hindi nangangahulugang wala na tayong mararanasang suliranin. Sa halip, ito’y nangangahulugang sa gitna ng mga unos ng buhay, mananatili tayong payapa at panatag, dahil alam nating kasama natin ang Banal na Espiritu Santo. 

Nararamdaman mo ba ang presensya ng Banal na Espiritu Santo ngayon? Nararamdaman mo ba ang Kaniyang pag-gabay? – Marino J. Dasmarinas

Reflection for June 7 Saturday of the Seventh Week of Easter: John 21:20-25

Gospel: John 21:20-25

Peter turned and saw the disciple following whom Jesus loved, the one who had also reclined upon his chest during the supper and had said, “Master, who is the one who will betray you? When Peter saw him, he said to Jesus, “Lord, what about him? 

Jesus said to him, “What if I want him to remain until I come? What concern is it of yours? You follow me. So the word spread among the brothers that that disciple would not die. But Jesus had not told him that he would not die just “What if I want him to remain until I come? What concern is it of yours?  

It is this disciple who testifies to these things and has written them, and we know that his testimony is true. There are also many other things that Jesus did but if these were to be described individually I do not think the whole world would contain the books that would be written.

+ + + + + + +

Reflection:

Are you sometimes too inquisitive about things that do not even concern you? 

In today’s Gospel, Peter shows a similar tendency—he becomes too curious about something that is not his concern. He asks Jesus about the beloved disciple, and we may wonder why. What was going through Peter’s mind at that moment? 

We may never know for sure. But one thing is clear: Peter was not fully focused on Jesus’ personal call for him to “Follow Me.” 

Like Peter, we too can sometimes lose focus. When we decide to follow Jesus, we are called to fix our eyes on Him—not on the lives of others in the parish, or even on the affairs of our neighbors. Rather, we are invited to reflect on our own journey, our own family, and the life God has entrusted to us. 

Many conflicts and misunderstandings begin when we allow ourselves to be overly involved in other people’s lives. Gossip, judgment, and comparisons only distract us from the peace and grace the Lord offers. 

So today, let us resolve to focus on our own walk with Christ. Let us allow others the space to live their lives in peace, free from our meddling or unsolicited opinions. 

Instead of wasting time speaking about others or prying into matters that do not help us grow spiritually, let us use our energy to deepen our relationship with Jesus. Let us spend more time in prayer, in quiet service, and in seeking how we can faithfully and silently follow the Lord—just as He calls us to do. 

May we always remember: Jesus does not compare us with others. He simply says to each of us, “Follow Me.” – Marino J. Dasmarinas

Reflection for Friday June 6 of the Seventh Week of Easter: John 21:15-19

Gospel: John 21:15-19

After Jesus had revealed himself to his disciples and eaten breakfast with them, he said to Simon Peter, "Simon, son of John, do you love me more than these?" Simon Peter answered him, "Yes, Lord, you know that I love you." Jesus said to him, "Feed my lambs."  

He then said to Simon Peter a second time, "Simon, son of John, do you love me?" Simon Peter answered him, "Yes, Lord, you know that I love you." He said to him, "Tend my sheep." He said to him the third time, "Simon, son of John, do you love me?" Peter was distressed that he had said to him a third time, "Do you love me?" and he said to him, "Lord, you know everything; you know that I love you." 

Jesus said to him, "Feed my sheep. Amen, amen, I say to you, when you were younger, you used to dress yourself and go where you wanted; but when you grow old, you will stretch out your hands, and someone else will dress you and lead you where you do not want to go." He said this signifying by what kind of death he would glorify God. And when he had said this, he said to him, "Follow me."

+ + + + + + +

Reflection:

Do you know that true love always requires humility and sacrifice? 

There is always humility woven into the very meaning of love. We cannot truly love without being willing to sacrifice. We cannot love without emptying ourselves for the good of the one we love. Love is not merely spoken—it must be lived. It is always expressed through humble, self-giving action. 

In the Gospel, Jesus asked Simon Peter three times, “Do you love me?” And each time Peter responded with a “yes,” Jesus gave him a mission: “Feed my lambs,” “Tend my sheep,” and “Feed my sheep.” Every declaration of love was met with a call to serve—proof that love must be demonstrated through obedience and action. 

This is also what Jesus asks of us. If we say that we love Him, we must follow Him humbly. We must be willing to deny ourselves, carry our cross daily, and live a life of loving service. Why? Because humility and sacrifice are the very heart of true love. 

Love without humility and sacrifice is not genuine love—it is a self-centered imitation, rooted not in devotion to others, but in love of self. 

How do you love? — Marino J. Dasmarinas

Reflection for Thursday June 5 Memorial of Saint Boniface, Bishop and Martyr: John 17:20-26

Gospel: John 17:20-26

Lifting up his eyes to heaven, Jesus prayed saying: “I pray not only for these, but also for those who will believe in me through their word, so that they may all be one, as you, Father, are in me and I in you, that they also may be in us, that the world may believe that you sent me.   

And I have given them the glory you gave me, so that they may be one, as we are one, I in them and you in me, that they may be brought to perfection as one that the world may know that you sent me and that you loved them even as you loved me. Father, they are your gift to me.  

I wish that where I am they also may be with me, that they may see my glory that you gave me because you loved me before the foundation of the world. Righteous Father, the world also does not know you but I know you, and they know that you sent me I made known to them your name and I will make it known that the love with which you loved me may be in them and I in them.

+ + + + + + +

Reflection:

There is a story told about a woman who lovingly devoted herself to caring for the poor in her community. She served not out of abundance, but out of deep compassion and unwavering faith. There were times when resources were scarce—yet, somehow, she was always able to feed and care for those in need. She believed with all her heart that Jesus would never fail her. And He didn’t. 

This quiet faith reminds us of a powerful truth: We can always lean on Jesus. 

He is constant—always present, always ready to help us. His love for us is beyond measure. He proved this love when He gave His life for us on the cross. Through that act of self-giving, Jesus fulfilled the mission entrusted to Him by the Father. For our sake, God gave us His only begotten Son. 

God is never distant from us. No matter who we are. No matter what burdens we carry. No matter the sins we’ve committed. He is near. He listens. And He longs for us to come to Him. 

But faith is not meant to be kept hidden. There is a calling—a sacred responsibility—that rests on our shoulders: to share this love, to pay it forward. Because our faith in God doesn’t grow in isolation. It matures when we offer it to others, when we become channels of His grace and love in this world. 

So ask yourself today: Have I shared my faith with someone? Have I become an instrument of God’s love? Jesus gave everything for us. Let us not hold back in living for Him—and in loving others as He has loved us. — Marino J. Dasmarinas

Reflection for June 4 Wednesday of the Seventh Week of Easter: John 17:11b-19

Gospel: John 17:11b-19

Jesus raised his eyes to heaven and said, “Father, the hour has come. Give glory to your son, so that your son may glorify you, just as you gave him authority over all people, so that your son may give eternal life to all you gave him. Now this is eternal life, that they should know you, the only true God, and the one whom you sent, Jesus Christ.  

I glorified you on earth by accomplishing the work that you gave me to do. Now glorify me, Father, with you, with the glory that I had with you before the world began. “I revealed your name to those whom you gave me out of the world. They belonged to you, and you gave them to me, and they have kept your word.  

Now they know that everything you gave me is from you, because the words you gave to me I have given to them, and they accepted them and truly understood that I came from you, and they have believed that you sent me. I pray for them.

I do not pray for the world but for the ones you have given me, because they are yours, and everything of mine is yours and everything of yours is mine, and I have been glorified in them. And now I will no longer be in the world, but they are in the world, while I am coming to you.”

+ + + + + + +

Reflection:

There is a story told about a man known for being prayerful. But the irony was this: though he prayed often, his prayers were always only for himself.

When the man died, an angel welcomed him and led him into a beautiful room filled with everything he had ever prayed for. Overwhelmed with gratitude, the man thanked the angel for granting his desires. But then he noticed something unsettling—he was completely alone.

He turned to the angel and asked, “Why am I alone?”

The angel gently replied, “Because you always prayed only for yourself. You never lifted up anyone else in your prayers. And now, you are surrounded only by the things you asked for—but not by the people you could have prayed for.”

As Jesus prepared to leave His disciples, He did not pray for Himself. Instead, He prayed for them. He interceded for their protection, their unity, and their strength. His heart was turned outward, filled with love and concern for others.

What about us?

When we come before God in prayer, is our focus always on ourselves? Are we the constant star of our conversations with God? Or do we sometimes set aside our own needs to pray for those we love—trusting that God, who knows all things, already understands our hearts and our needs?

God is all-knowing. He sees every joy and every burden we carry. And because He already knows what we need, perhaps we are called to lift up others more often in our prayers.

This does not mean we stop bringing our personal petitions before God. Not at all. But it does mean we learn to pray with the heart of Christ—placing the needs of others before our own. For God doesn’t want us to be people who live only for ourselves. He calls us to be people for others—just as Jesus was, and still is, for us. 

So today, reflect on this simple but profound question: Am I a person who prays only for myself, or am I becoming a person of prayer for others? — Marino J. Dasmarinas

Reflection for Tuesday June 3 Memorial of Saint Charles Lwanga and Companions, Martyrs: John 17:1-11a

Gospel: John 17:1-11a

Jesus raised his eyes to heaven and said, “Father, the hour has come. Give glory to your son, so that your son may glorify you, just as you gave him authority over all people, so that your son may give eternal life to all you gave him. 

Now this is eternal life, that they should know you, the only true God, and the one whom you sent, Jesus Christ. I glorified you on earth by accomplishing the work that you gave me to do. Now glorify me, Father, with you, with the glory that I had with you before the world began.  

“I revealed your name to those whom you gave me out of the world. They belonged to you, and you gave them to me, and they have kept your word. Now they know that everything you gave me is from you, because the words you gave to me I have given to them, and they accepted them and truly understood that I came from you, and they have believed that you sent me. 

I pray for them. I do not pray for the world but for the ones you have given me, because they are yours, and everything of mine is yours and everything of yours is mine, and I have been glorified in them. And now I will no longer be in the world, but they are in the world, while I am coming to you.

+ + + + + + +

Reflection:

What is the usual way we pray? 

Do we pray spontaneously, or do we follow a certain pattern? Whatever form our prayer takes, what truly matters is that we pour our hearts into it. A prayer that reaches the heart of God is one that flows sincerely from our own. 

In the Gospel for this Tuesday, we see Jesus lifting His eyes to heaven in prayer. It is a deeply personal moment between Him and the Father—yet even in that intimate conversation, He remembers His disciples and all those He dearly loves. 

If Jesus, the Son of God, prayed to the Father, how much more should we? We, too, are invited to come before Him—to offer our petitions, to seek His strength in our daily trials, and to ask for His light in moments of confusion. We can pray for a heart free from hatred, for healing from wounds we cannot see, and for grace to love even when it’s difficult. 

In prayer, we are drawn into union with God. Through it, we allow Him to touch the deepest parts of our being—to heal us not only physically, but emotionally and spiritually. When we pray with sincerity, we make room for His presence to move in us. And often, we come away from prayer feeling lighter, comforted, and renewed. 

So let us turn to God with humble hearts. Let us ask Him to heal all that ails us and to bless us with the grace of deep connection with Him every time we pray. For without prayer, and without this living connection with our God, life becomes empty. But with Him—through prayer—we find fullness, peace, and purpose. — Marino J. Dasmarinas

Reflection for June 2 Monday of the Seventh Week of Easter: John 16:29-33

Gospel: John 16:29-33

The disciples said to Jesus, “Now you are talking plainly, and not in any figure of speech. Now we realize that you know everything and that you do not need to have anyone question you. Because of this we believe that you came from God.”  

Jesus answered them, “Do you believe now? Behold, the hour is coming and has arrived when each of you will be scattered to his own home and you will leave me alone. But I am not alone, because the Father is with me. I have told you this so that you might have peace in me. In the world you will have trouble, but take courage, I have conquered the world.”

+ + + + + + +

Reflection:

Do you long for peace in your life? 

In a world filled with troubles, worries, and sickness, true peace often feels out of reach. But even when everything around us seems to fall apart, Jesus is always there—offering us His calming presence and the gift of peace that the world cannot give. 

Many of us believe that the things of this world—wealth, comfort, success—will bring us peace. But they never do. The more we chase peace in worldly things, the more it escapes us. Why? Because the world was never meant to satisfy the longing of our hearts. Instead of peace, it often gives us restlessness, distraction, and chaos. 

So where can we find real peace of mind? Only in Jesus. Only He can quiet our hearts. Only He can still the storms within us. No one and nothing else can give us the deep, lasting peace that our souls crave. But how many of us have truly experienced this peace that Jesus offers? 

Perhaps not many. And maybe it’s because we often remember Him only in moments of need or desperation. Or maybe we try to walk with Him—but when temptation calls, we’re quick to turn away, drawn by the fleeting pleasures of the world. 

Why not change this pattern? 

Why not make Jesus our first priority—not just in crisis, but every day? When we do, we begin to feel His peaceful presence in every part of our lives. And once we live in that peace—His peace—we are complete. We lack nothing. 

May we choose Jesus daily. May we seek His peace above all else. And may His presence quiet every worry and calm every storm in our hearts. — Marino J. Dasmarinas

Reflection for Sunday June 1, The Solemnity of the Ascension of the Lord: Luke 24:46-53

Gospel: Luke 24:46-53

Jesus said to his disciples: “Thus it is written that the Christ would suffer and rise from the dead on the third day and that repentance, for the forgiveness of sins, would be preached in his name to all the nations, beginning from Jerusalem. You are witnesses of these things. 

And behold I am sending the promise of my Father upon you; but stay in the city until you are clothed with power from on high.” Then he led them out as far as Bethany, raised his hands, and blessed them. 

As he blessed them he parted from them and was taken up to heaven. They did him homage and then returned to Jerusalem with great joy, and they were continually in the temple praising God.

+ + + + + + +

Reflection:

There is a story about a father who was preparing to leave for work in a faraway place. Before departing, he gathered his children and lovingly reminded them not to forget the responsibilities he had entrusted to each of them. He assured them that if any need or trouble arose, they could reach out to him anytime—and he would always be there for them. 

In much the same way, after forty days following His glorious resurrection, and after many sacred appearances to His disciples, Jesus—our Divine Lord—was ready to return to the Father. His earthly mission was complete. It was time for Him to ascend into heaven. 

But before He ascended, He entrusted a sacred task to His apostles—the mission to continue His work, to proclaim the Gospel to all nations, and to be His living witnesses. 

What does the Ascension signify to the apostles? It is both a moment of parting and a moment of commissioning. It signifies that the responsibility to spread the Good News now rests in their hands. They could no longer remain still. The torch had been passed. They were now called to carry the light of Christ into the world. 

Did they succeed? Yes, by the grace of God, they did. But it was no easy path. They endured persecution, trials, and hardships. Yet with unwavering faith and bold hearts, they fulfilled their mission with courage and joy. 

The Ascension of our Lord is not just a moment in salvation history—it is also a divine reminder to us today. We are now His modern-day disciples. The mission continues through us. Upon our shoulders rests this sacred responsibility to share the love and mission of Jesus and proclaim His truth. 

But we often hesitate. We feel unworthy. We say, “Lord, I am not a good speaker,” or “I don’t have the gifts, the talent, or the resources.” Yet evangelization is not limited to eloquence or ability. It flows from a heart in love with Christ. 

We evangelize through our compassion, our humility, and our daily acts of kindness. Our lives can become living testimonies of God’s love. Even a simple act of sharing a Gospel passage online, or offering a prayerful word to someone in need, is already a powerful form of evangelization. 

Sometimes, we are held back by fear—fear of rejection, fear of judgment, fear of not being good enough. But Scripture reminds us: “God did not give us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-discipline” (2 Timothy 1:7). When we step out in faith, the Holy Spirit empowers us. 

As Jesus ascends into heaven, He does not leave us alone. He promises to be with us always, and He sends the Holy Spirit to guide and strengthen us. The mission is now ours. The question is: Will we answer His call? – Marino J. Dasmarinas

Ang Mabuting Balita at Repleksyon para sa Linggo Hunyo 1, Ang Pag-Akyat ng Panginoon:Lucas 24:46-53

Mabuting Balita: Lucas 24:46-53

Noong panahong iyon, sinabi ni Hesus sa kanyang mga alagad: “Ganito ang nasusulat: kinakailangang magbata ng hirap at mamatay ang Mesiyas at muling mabuhay sa ikatlong araw. 

Sa kanyang pangalan, ang pagsisisi at kapatawaran ng mga kasalanan ay dapat ipangaral sa lahat ng bansa, magmula sa Jerusalem. Kayo ang mga saksi sa mga bagay na ito. Tandaan ninyo: susuguin ko sa inyo ang ipinangako ng aking Ama, kaya’t huwag kayong aalis sa lungsod hanggang hindi kayo napagkakalooban ng kapangyarihan mula sa itaas.” 

Pagkatapos, sila’y isinama ni Hesus sa labas ng lungsod. Pagdating sa Betania, itinaas niya ang kanyang mga kamay at pinagpala sila. Samantalang iginagawad niya ito, siya nama’y lumalayo paakyat sa langit. Siya’y sinamba nila; pagkatapos, sila’y nagbalik sa Jerusalem, taglay ang malaking kagalakan. Palagi sila sa templo at doo’y nagpupuri sa Diyos.

+ + + + + + +

Repleksyon:

May isang kuwento tungkol sa isang ama na naghahanda nang umalis upang magtrabaho sa isang malayong lugar. Bago siya umalis, tinipon niya ang kaniyang mga anak at buong pagmamahal na pinaalalahanan silang huwag kalilimutan ang mga responsibilidad na ipinagkatiwala niya sa bawat isa sa kanila. Tiniyak din niya na kung sakaling may pangangailangan o problema, maaari siyang kontakin at palagi siyang magiging naroon para sa kanila.

Matapos ang apatnapung araw mula sa Kaniyang maluwalhating muling pagkabuhay at matapos ang maraming pagpapakita sa Kaniyang mga alagad, si Jesus — ay handa nang bumalik sa Ama. Tapos na ang Kaniyang misyon sa mundo. Panahon na upang Siya ay umakyat sa langit.

Ngunit bago Siya umakyat, ipinagkatiwala Niya ang isang banal na tungkulin sa Kaniyang mga apostol—ang misyon na ipagpatuloy ang Kaniyang gawain, ipahayag ang Mabuting Balita sa lahat ng bansa, at maging buhay na saksi ng Kaniyang presensya.

Ano ang kahulugan ng Pag-akyat sa Langit para sa mga apostol? Isa itong sandali ng pamamaalam ngunit isa ring sandali ng pagkatalaga. Ipinahihiwatig nito na ang pananagutan sa pagpapalaganap ng Mabuting Balita ay nasa kanilang mga kamay na ngayon. Hindi na sila maaaring manatiling walang ginagawa. Tinatawag na silang dalhin ang liwanag ni Kristo sa sanlibutan.

Nagtagumpay ba sila? Oo, sa biyaya ng Diyos, nagtagumpay sila. Ngunit hindi ito naging madali. Dumaan sila sa pag-uusig, mga pagsubok, at kahirapan. Gayunman, dahil sa matatag na pananampalataya ay tinupad nila ang kanilang misyon nang may kagalakan kahit na ito ay mahirap.

Ang Pag-akyat ng ating Panginoon ay hindi lamang isang pangyayari sa kasaysayan ng kaligtasan—isa rin itong banal na paalala sa atin sa kasalukuyan. Tayo na ngayon ang Kaniyang mga alagad sa makabagong panahong ito ng social media. Nagpapatuloy ang misyon sa pamamagitan natin. Nasa ating mga balikat ang banal na tungkulin na ibahagi ang pag-ibig ni Jesus at ipahayag ang Kaniyang katotohanan.

Ngunit kadalasan, tayo ay nag-aatubili. Pakiramdam natin ay hindi tayo karapat-dapat. Sinasabi natin, “Panginoon, hindi ako magaling magsalita,” o “Wala akong kakayahan, talento, o sapat na yaman.” Ngunit ang ebanghelisasyon ay hindi nakasalalay sa pagiging mahusay o may kakayahan. Ito ay nagmumula sa pusong umiibig kay Kristo.

Ipinapahayag natin ang Ebanghelyo sa pamamagitan ng ating pag mamalasakit at pagtulong sa ating kapwa, kababaang-loob, at araw-araw na mga gawa ng kabutihan. Maaaring maging buhay na patotoo ang ating mga buhay sa pag-ibig ng Diyos. Kahit isang simpleng pagbabahagi ng talata mula sa Ebanghelyo online, o pagbibigay ng payo sa isang nangangailangan, ay isang makapangyarihang anyo ng ebanghelisasyon.

Minsan tayo ay pinipigilan ng takot—takot na ma-reject, takot na husgahan, takot na hindi sapat ang ating kakayahan. Ngunit pinaaalalahanan tayo ng Kasulatan: “Sapagkat ang espiritung ibinigay sa atin ng Diyos ay hindi espiritu ng kahinaan, kundi espiritu ng kapangyarihan, pag-ibig, at pagpipigil sa sarili” (2 Timoteo 1:7). Kapag tayo’y kumilos sa pananampalataya, pinapalakas tayo ng Espiritu Santo.

Habang si Jesus ay umaakyat sa langit, hindi Niya tayo iniiwan. Ipinangako Niyang mananatili Siyang kasama natin magpakailanman, at isinugo Niya ang Espiritu Santo upang gabayan at palakasin tayo. Nasa atin na ngayon ang misyon. Ang tanong: Tutuparin ba natin ito? – Marino J. Dasmarinas

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

Gospel: Luke 1:39-56

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

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

And Mary said: “My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord; my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has looked with favor on his lowly servant. From this day all generations will call me blessed: the Almighty has done great things for me, and holy is his Name.  

He has mercy on those who fear him in every generation. He has shown the strength of his arm, he has scattered the proud in their conceit. He has cast down the mighty from their thrones, and has lifted up the lowly. He has filled the hungry with good things, and the rich he has sent away empty. He has come to the help of his servant Israel for he has remembered his promise of mercy, the promise he made to our fathers, to Abraham and his children for ever.”  

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

+ + + + + + +

Reflection:

Would you exert effort to give a relative a surprise visit?

Many of us are so caught up in the busyness of life that we hardly have time for this kind of simple but noble act of love. We are pulled in many directions by our worldly preoccupations, and oftentimes, reaching out to relatives or friends feels like a luxury we can no longer afford.

But even when we are too busy, the Blessed Mother always has time.

Imagine this: Mary, carrying Jesus in her womb, undertakes a long and difficult journey—riding on a donkey across hills and valleys—not for her own needs, but simply to be present to her cousin Elizabeth. She travelled not out of obligation, but out of love, humility, and self-giving concern.

Who among us would do the same today? Perhaps only a few—because many of us have allowed the world to dictate our pace, to tell us we must always be accomplishing something, always busy, always occupied with earthly concerns.

But what do we sacrifice in return? Our relationships. Our connections with family and friends. The joy of presence. The gift of simply being there for someone.

When we become too focused on the things of this world, the bonds that tie us to our loved ones begin to fade. That is never how God intended us to live.

How about Mary? She did not think of her own comfort or condition. She was pregnant too. She could have stayed home, rested, and waited. But no—she made time, because her heart overflowed with love, compassion, and deep faith in God’s mission.

She teaches us something timeless: True love makes time. True love shows up. How many of us are still willing to forget ourselves, even for a little while, to visit a relative or a friend? Not to bring anything grand, but simply to bring our presence—our love, our comfort, our joy. That is what Mary did.

May we learn from the Blessed Mother. May we find time—just as she did—to step out of ourselves and into the lives of those who need us most. – Marino J. Dasmarinas