An Invite

Accept or Reject?

25 At that time Jesus said in reply,[a] “I give praise to you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, for although you have hidden these things from the wise and the learned you have revealed them to the childlike. 26 Yes, Father, such has been your gracious will. 27 All things have been handed over to me by my Father. No one knows the Son except the Father, and no one knows the Father except the Son and anyone to whom the Son wishes to reveal him.-Matthew11:25-27

What are the ways of the wise and the learned? Some have become intellectually arrogant and stubborn. Others have closed their mind to new learning. Still others have become proud of the little or much learning they have. Jesus was a breath of fresh air during His time when He did the ministry. Like a sower scattering the seeds, He showered upon all - without partiality - what the kingdom of God is all about. However, just like the seeds that fell on different grounds, our response vary per person. What is our response to His invitation to change? What is our response to new learning?

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What about us?

What about us?

20 Then he began to reproach the towns where most of his mighty deeds had been done, since they had not repented. 21 “Woe to you, Chorazin! Woe to you, Bethsaida! For if the mighty deeds done in your midst had been done in Tyre and Sidon,[a] they would long ago have repented in sackcloth and ashes. 22 But I tell you, it will be more tolerable for Tyre and Sidon on the day of judgment than for you. 23 [b]And as for you, Capernaum:
‘Will you be exalted to heaven?
You will go down to the netherworld.’
For if the mighty deeds done in your midst had been done in Sodom, it would have remained until this day. 24 But I tell you, it will be more tolerable for the land of Sodom on the day of judgment than for you.”-Matthew11:20-24

What about us? What will Jesus say to us? Did we repent? Is Sodom and Gomorrah, with all its wickedness, a little better than our present world and time? When are we going to repent? Is destruction our lot?

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Free!

Nothing is concealed that will not be revealed, nor secret that will not be known.

24 No disciple is above his teacher, no slave above his master. 25 It is enough for the disciple that he become like his teacher, for the slave that he become like his master. If they have called the master of the house Beelzebul,[a] how much more those of his household!
26 “Therefore do not be afraid of them. Nothing is concealed that will not be revealed, nor secret that will not be known.[b] 27 What I say to you in the darkness, speak in the light; what you hear whispered, proclaim on the housetops. 28 And do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul; rather, be afraid of the one who can destroy both soul and body in Gehenna. 29 Are not two sparrows sold for a small coin? Yet not one of them falls to the ground without your Father’s knowledge. 30 Even all the hairs of your head are counted. 31 So do not be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows. 32 [c]Everyone who acknowledges me before others I will acknowledge before my heavenly Father. 33 But whoever denies me before others, I will deny before my heavenly Father.-Matthew10:24-33

"Nothing is concealed that will not be revealed, nor secret that will not be known." So many men and women love to take pictures or video of themselves (selfie). Sometimes they take pictures or videos of too personal instances that should should have remained off the record. And when it leaked or acquired in a malicious way by other individuals, alas, what shame, horror and fear there is! "Nothing is concealed that will not be revealed, nor secret that will not be known." Let us live in light and truth! Jesus is inviting us to live a blameless life, a life where our conscience cannot say anything against us. There is nothing wrong in taking pictures or videos, but let us do this with maturity and responsibility. Let us try to keep private what needed to be kept private. Let us share to the world that which is for the betterment of the world - Love.

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Nothing

No extra?

7 He summoned the Twelve[a] and began to send them out two by two and gave them authority over unclean spirits. 8 [b]He instructed them to take nothing for the journey but a walking stick—no food, no sack, no money in their belts. 9 They were, however, to wear sandals but not a second tunic. 10 [c]He said to them, “Wherever you enter a house, stay there until you leave from there. 11 Whatever place does not welcome you or listen to you, leave there and shake the dust off your feet in testimony against them.” 12 So they went off and preached repentance. 13 [d]They drove out many demons, and they anointed with oil many who were sick and cured them.-Mark6:7-13

Nothing. Jesus instructs His disciples to travel and do their mission without provision. No extras! Actually, it is not such a bad thing especially if mobility is the issue. As a poor traveler and packer, unnecessary things and "extras" are always my problem. To have nothing is a good thing because it makes one humble one's self to God. Last year, I almost have everything and I can buy anything. But I always say, "What good are these things to me if the one thing that I really want cannot be bought for a price?" I realized that accomplishments, money, praise or anything earthly cannot suffice at all. God alone can quench and satisfy all thirst and hunger.

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Division, Condition, Reward

Jesus: A Cause of Division

34 “Do not think that I have come to bring peace upon the earth. I have come to bring not peace but the sword. 35 For I have come to set
a man ‘against his father,
a daughter against her mother,
and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law;
36 and one’s enemies will be those of his household.’
37 “Whoever loves father or mother more than me is not worthy of me, and whoever loves son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me; 38 and whoever does not take up his cross[a] and follow after me is not worthy of me. 39 [b]Whoever finds his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life for my sake will find it.
40 “Whoever receives you receives me,[c] and whoever receives me receives the one who sent me. 41 [d]Whoever receives a prophet because he is a prophet will receive a prophet’s reward, and whoever receives a righteous man because he is righteous will receive a righteous man’s reward. 42 And whoever gives only a cup of cold water to one of these little ones to drink because he is a disciple—amen, I say to you, he will surely not lose his reward.”
1 When Jesus finished giving these commands to his twelve disciples,[e] he went away from that place to teach and to preach in their towns.-Matthew10:34-11:1

Jesus is not saying we should wage war against our loved ones because it will be contrary to the Law (Honor your father and mother) and He comes to fulfill the Law. Rather, at a certain point in our life, we should learn that the ultimate goal is always God, that the ultimate Love is God. Sometimes our family is against us if we make or do things for God i.e. serving the Church. We face tough opposition from our family should we decide to make a sacrifice for God i.e. entering the priesthood or religious life. Today, Jesus is reminding us of the conditions to be His disciple. It is always about God first and foremost.

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Opposing Forces?

"...be shrewd as serpents and simple as doves..."

16 “Behold, I am sending you like sheep in the midst of wolves; so be shrewd as serpents and simple as doves. 17 [a]But beware of people, for they will hand you over to courts and scourge you in their synagogues, 18 and you will be led before governors and kings for my sake as a witness before them and the pagans. 19 When they hand you over, do not worry about how you are to speak or what you are to say. You will be given at that moment what you are to say. 20 For it will not be you who speak but the Spirit of your Father speaking through you. 21 [b]Brother will hand over brother to death, and the father his child; children will rise up against parents and have them put to death. 22 You will be hated by all because of my name, but whoever endures to the end[c] will be saved. 23 When they persecute you in one town, flee to another. Amen, I say to you, you will not finish the towns of Israel before the Son of Man comes.[d]-Matthew10:16-23

"...be shrewd as serpents and simple as doves..." Is it possible? Can we be shrewd as serpents, yet remaining simple as doves? Yes, we can! Jesus is not saying we embrace our wickedness along with goodness at the same time. Shrewdness is not a bad attitude, on the contrary, it can complement and boost goodness to far far places. I actually remembered Harry Potter and Voldemort. Both are great wizards, but each is in a different path. One is great but evil. The other is great and good. If greatness is given to us, which path are we going to choose? Jesus today is inviting us to be strong and firm in times of difficulty especially if our faith is put to the test. And, to appreciate the greatest gift of freely practicing our faith.

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With a Mission

The kingdom of heaven is at hand. Repent!

7 As you go, make this proclamation: ‘The kingdom of heaven is at hand.’ 8 [a]Cure the sick, raise the dead, cleanse lepers, drive out demons. Without cost you have received; without cost you are to give. 9 Do not take gold or silver or copper for your belts; 10 no sack for the journey, or a second tunic, or sandals, or walking stick. The laborer deserves his keep. 11 Whatever town or village you enter, look for a worthy person in it, and stay there until you leave. 12 As you enter a house, wish it peace. 13 If the house is worthy, let your peace come upon it; if not, let your peace return to you.[b] 14 [c]Whoever will not receive you or listen to your words—go outside that house or town and shake the dust from your feet. 15 Amen, I say to you, it will be more tolerable for the land of Sodom and Gomorrah on the day of judgment than for that town.-Matthew10:7-15

The kingdom of heaven is at hand. Repent! Let's mend our ways. It is not such a difficult thing to do when one is open to change. But if one resists, there the problem enters. So many despise religious men and women for doing their jobs. So many blame the missionaries for the spread of HIV-AIDS in Africa because the latter is teaching against the use of condoms. The scientific and medical communities hail themselves as the real helpers in solving the problem by providing condoms and other ways to stop the virus. Really? Just really? But I say, let's not just focus on HIV-AIDS but the deeper root of the problem - lack of self-control and lack of discipline. If one chooses to say No to premarital sex or fornication, then s/he preserves herself/himself. You don't worry about sexually transmitted disease, or malicious videos. You respect your very self as a holy temple. The Church is never against having a happy life. But how do you define happiness?

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The Actors and Actresses

Jesus and the Twelve.

1 [a]Then he summoned his twelve disciples[b] and gave them authority over unclean spirits to drive them out and to cure every disease and every illness. 2 The names of the twelve apostles[c] are these: first, Simon called Peter, and his brother Andrew; James, the son of Zebedee, and his brother John; 3 Philip and Bartholomew, Thomas and Matthew the tax collector; James, the son of Alphaeus, and Thaddeus; 4 Simon the Cananean, and Judas Iscariot who betrayed him.
5 Jesus sent out these twelve[d] after instructing them thus, “Do not go into pagan territory or enter a Samaritan town. 6 Go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel. 7 As you go, make this proclamation: ‘The kingdom of heaven is at hand.’-Matthew10:1-7

Nowadays, when people demand for freedom of speech and expression, it is easy to judge, accept or reject a person based on what we know about him/her. But Jesus is different. Though God-made-Man, Jesus does not and will never judge people based on looking at certain circumstances only. Perhaps He already knew the past, present and future of His disciples, yet, He did not impede or went against the Father's will. Perhaps He has His own separate preferences, yet, He called those predestined from the beginning by the Father. What is predestined is destined to happen. The 'actors,' 'actresses,' and the 'stage' are all in and must play their role. Some have good roles, others do not like Judas Iscariot. But the play continues and actually evolves, and God - the Director - gives all of us many many chances to be better, to embrace our Resurrection and to exercise our free will according to His plan and will. No one is too old or too young. We are all called to a holy life. We are all called to reach out to the lost sheep. We are all called to help one another. We are all called to be charitable to one another. We are all called to be like Jesus Christ Himself to others - Ipse Christus. We are all called to praise and worship the Father, Son and Holy Spirit.

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Why trouble?

United.

32 As they were going out,[a] a demoniac who could not speak was brought to him, 33 and when the demon was driven out the mute person spoke. The crowds were amazed and said, “Nothing like this has ever been seen in Israel.” 34 [b]But the Pharisees said, “He drives out demons by the prince of demons.”
35 [c]Jesus went around to all the towns and villages, teaching in their synagogues, proclaiming the gospel of the kingdom, and curing every disease and illness. 36 At the sight of the crowds, his heart was moved with pity for them because they were troubled and abandoned,[d] like sheep without a shepherd. 37 [e]Then he said to his disciples, “The harvest is abundant but the laborers are few; 38 so ask the master of the harvest to send out laborers for his harvest.”-Matthew9:32-38

Troubled and abandoned. If the crowds during Jesus' time felt troubled and abandoned, these feelings are still here with us at present. Some think that science and God cannot be united. Some think that philosophy and God cannot be united. Some think that governance and God cannot be united. But the truth is, it can! Where did science come from? From God's creation. Without God's creation, there won't be science anyway. Where did philosophy come from? From a single curiosity and the need for an answer. And this curiosity still came from God who blessed us with a brain packed with knowledge and wisdom far superior than the animals. Where did governance come from? Order! And this came from God who can make crooked lines straight. Can't we see it? Everything and everyone lives, revolves and is rooted in God. Why are we making things complicated? Why do we trouble ourselves when all along the answer is before us?

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Seek Him

Stories of miracle.

18 [a]While he was saying these things to them, an official[b] came forward, knelt down before him, and said, “My daughter has just died. But come, lay your hand on her, and she will live.” 19 Jesus rose and followed him, and so did his disciples. 20 A woman suffering hemorrhages for twelve years came up behind him and touched the tassel[c] on his cloak. 21 She said to herself, “If only I can touch his cloak, I shall be cured.” 22 Jesus turned around and saw her, and said, “Courage, daughter! Your faith has saved you.” And from that hour the woman was cured.
23 When Jesus arrived at the official’s house and saw the flute players and the crowd who were making a commotion, 24 he said, “Go away! The girl is not dead but sleeping.”[d] And they ridiculed him. 25 When the crowd was put out, he came and took her by the hand, and the little girl arose. 26 And news of this spread throughout all that land.-Matthew9:18-26

A daughter just died. When one dies, it is impossible to bring him/her back to life. A woman has a bleeding problem for 12 years. Could this year be any different with the past years? Hopeless cases, right? But it is very true that if we are in a rock bottom or hopeless situation, it is there that we seek God's help and all the more hopeful. The miracle stories are testimonies that Jesus does not leave us when we need Him the most. However, it is not enough that we only seek God just because we need Him to solve our problems. Our experiences should make us seek Him all the more whether it is in joy or in pain. Our experiences should be turning points in our life making us closer to God, making us aware of God.

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50-50? 60-40?

50-50?

14 Then the disciples of John approached him and said, “Why do we and the Pharisees fast [much], but your disciples do not fast?” 15 Jesus answered them, “Can the wedding guests mourn as long as the bridegroom is with them? The days will come when the bridegroom is taken away from them, and then they will fast.[a] 16 No one patches an old cloak with a piece of unshrunken cloth,[b] for its fullness pulls away from the cloak and the tear gets worse. 17 People do not put new wine into old wineskins. Otherwise the skins burst, the wine spills out, and the skins are ruined. Rather, they pour new wine into fresh wineskins, and both are preserved.”-Matthew9:14-17

I tried to sew a piece of cotton cloth with a different type of cloth. No matter how good I sew it with a machine, it just won't work. There is reason and logic in the ordinariness of life and in the simple things we do everyday like putting water in a glass. Today, Jesus is teaching us - not only the reason and logic behind patching cloths and putting new wine into new wineskins - but its deeper meaning that can be applied to life as a whole. Jesus is not disregarding the Old - prophets and the Law - just because He teaches differently and with authority. Rather, He fulfills it. We can say a fusion of two worlds - each complementing the other.

The 'New' is not always the answer; the 'Old' does not always have the answer. Sometimes the brand new 'me,' may work out and at other times, it may not. We need the past to help our present, and we need the present to mold the future. We bring to present the lessons of the past to help shape our future.

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Which is better - Success or Failure?

In one's own country...

1 He departed from there and came to his native place,[a] accompanied by his disciples. 2 [b]When the sabbath came he began to teach in the synagogue, and many who heard him were astonished. They said, “Where did this man get all this? What kind of wisdom has been given him? What mighty deeds are wrought by his hands! 3 Is he not the carpenter,[c] the son of Mary, and the brother of James and Joses and Judas and Simon? And are not his sisters here with us?” And they took offense at him. 4 [d]Jesus said to them, “A prophet is not without honor except in his native place and among his own kin and in his own house.” 5 So he was not able to perform any mighty deed there,[e] apart from curing a few sick people by laying his hands on them. 6 He was amazed at their lack of faith.-Mark6:1-6

Is it indeed possible that perhaps Jesus' townsfolk wondered where He got His power? "Is it from this place or that place?" "Where did He go and where did He get His powers?" As if it can be bought next door!

We all know that in Jewish tradition, a person can call his cousins, half-siblings, nephews, nieces and kinsman/woman as his/her own brothers and sisters (e.g. Tobias and Sarah). In fact, I call my older cousins and other relatives as brothers and sisters because culture and respect require it.

The Gospel reading is all about the people's lack of faith in Jesus simply because they know Him - "Oh! He's the boy around the corner who happens to be a carpenter." Yes, in there eyes, Jesus is and will always be a carpenter, no more, no less. How sad, isn't it? But it is true that some people would rather see you fail, than be better. Some people would rather see you miserable and sad, than be happy. Some people would rather see you unsuccessful, than be successful. Jesus is inviting us to rejoice in other people's success and betterment. What is better - success or failure? If we want others to rejoice in our success and betterment, we should learn too to rejoice in theirs.

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What to do?

Blessed are those who have not seen and have believed.

24 Thomas, called Didymus, one of the Twelve, was not with them when Jesus came. 25 So the other disciples said to him, “We have seen the Lord.” But he said to them, “Unless I see the mark of the nails in his hands and put my finger into the nailmarks and put my hand into his side, I will not believe.” 26 Now a week later his disciples were again inside and Thomas was with them. Jesus came, although the doors were locked, and stood in their midst and said, “Peace be with you.” 27 Then he said to Thomas, “Put your finger here and see my hands, and bring your hand and put it into my side, and do not be unbelieving, but believe.” 28 [a]Thomas answered and said to him, “My Lord and my God!” 29 [b]Jesus said to him, “Have you come to believe because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and have believed.”-John20:24-29

Some say religion is outdated. Some say religion, with its old teachings and traditions, has no place in the 21st century with all its technology and progress. Some even say that God does not exist at all since He cannot be sensibly perceived - no more parting of the Red Sea, no more triumph over our enemies, no more walking in the water, no more calming of the storm, and so forth. Poor, poor souls. Faith is freely given to all. It is given to you and me. God connected and reached out to us, but what about us? What are we going to do with the gift of faith? Are we going to ignore it or embrace it? Do we really have to sensibly perceive and understand God first before believing? “Blessed are those who have not seen and have believed.”

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The Key

...know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins.

1 [a]He entered a boat, made the crossing, and came into his own town. 2 And there people brought to him a paralytic lying on a stretcher. When Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralytic, “Courage, child, your sins are forgiven.” 3 At that, some of the scribes[b] said to themselves, “This man is blaspheming.” 4 Jesus knew what they were thinking, and said, “Why do you harbor evil thoughts? 5 Which is easier, to say, ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or to say, ‘Rise and walk’? 6 [c]But that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins”—he then said to the paralytic, “Rise, pick up your stretcher, and go home.” 7 He rose and went home. 8 [d]When the crowds saw this they were struck with awe and glorified God who had given such authority to human beings.-Matthew9:1-8

The Gospel clearly demonstrates Jesus' power to heal and forgive sins. During His time, it is very rare for somebody to show such kind of authority - healing, driving demons away, teaching with authority, mastery over forces of nature, and so on. Today, it is all the more rare to see somebody in his/her full potential. "When the crowds saw this they were struck with awe and glorified God who had given such authority to human beings." We may not have the same kind of gifts that were once blessed to all followers, believers, apostles and disciples of Jesus in the past, but we do have 'gifts' from God for sure. These gifts await to be unlocked. Perhaps it is not much, but the little that we have is worth putting to use for the greater glory of God. How do we unlock something that we do not know? The key is God, the key is with God. We need only to ask and believe.

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The pigs, the demons and mankind today

They what??

28 When he came to the other side, to the territory of the Gadarenes,[a] two demoniacs who were coming from the tombs met him. They were so savage that no one could travel by that road. 29 They cried out, “What have you to do with us,[b] Son of God? Have you come here to torment us before the appointed time?” 30 Some distance away a herd of many swine was feeding.[c] 31 The demons pleaded with him, “If you drive us out, send us into the herd of swine.” 32 And he said to them, “Go then!” They came out and entered the swine, and the whole herd rushed down the steep bank into the sea where they drowned. 33 The swineherds ran away, and when they came to the town they reported everything, including what had happened to the demoniacs. 34 Thereupon the whole town came out to meet Jesus, and when they saw him they begged him to leave their district.-Matthew8:28-34

Strange isn't it? If the world needs God more than ever, the townsfolk in the Gospel actually begged Jesus to leave. What propelled them to ask His Majesty to leave? Were they afraid of His power? Were they unhappy that the two persons were finally freed of the demons? Were they unhappy for the loss of the pigs? Could be yes, could be no. Grace is poured upon us to accept Jesus as our Savior. It is up to us to recognize and acknowledge Him. There is something much more than profit or possessions. When somebody is freed from his/her evils or illness, we should rejoice because mercy has been given to that person, freedom has been given to that person, another chance has been given to that person.

It is saddening that we have forgotten or lost the knowledge of who we truly are, or what we are supposed to be. We look to the stars and aliens (sic) for answers to our existence. The truth is, it is here; it is obvious. Unfortunately, we look the other way. Some would rather dance their way to hell and sacrifice eternity in Heaven, in exchange for a little bliss on earth. Are we heading to ruin? Is the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah not enough for us to learn? Is the Babylon exile not enough for us to learn?

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Tempests

...even the winds and the sea obey

23 [a]He got into a boat and his disciples followed him. 24 Suddenly a violent storm[b] came up on the sea, so that the boat was being swamped by waves; but he was asleep. 25 They came and woke him, saying, “Lord, save us![c] We are perishing!” 26 He said to them, “Why are you terrified, O you of little faith?”[d] Then he got up, rebuked the winds and the sea, and there was great calm. 27 The men were amazed and said, “What sort of man is this, whom even the winds and the sea obey?”-Matthew8:23-27

Jesus is inviting us to be unafraid when we are confronted by life's sufferings. He is asking us to have faith and believe that all will be well. Besides, we are not alone because God never leaves our side. God may be silent and seems to have gone away, but it is in silence that He works all the more for us. Miracles do happen. Sometimes a little faith is all that is needed.

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Our Call

For flesh and blood[d] has not revealed this to you, but my heavenly Father.

13 When Jesus went into the region of Caesarea Philippi[a] he asked his disciples, “Who do people say that the Son of Man is?” 14 They replied, “Some say John the Baptist,[b] others Elijah, still others Jeremiah or one of the prophets.” 15 He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” 16 [c]Simon Peter said in reply, “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.” 17 Jesus said to him in reply, “Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah. For flesh and blood[d] has not revealed this to you, but my heavenly Father. 18 And so I say to you, you are Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church,[e] and the gates of the netherworld shall not prevail against it. 19 I will give you the keys to the kingdom of heaven.[f] Whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven; and whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.”-Matthew16:13-19

Today is the feast of Sts. Peter and Paul. They have sacrificed much for the propagation of the Christian faith. As Jesus called these two men for the ministry, Jesus calls us too to continue the ministry in anyway we can - as priests, religious men and women, and as lay members. What can we do? What does God want us to do for others? How can we spread and share Christ?

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The Real Doctor

Lord, I am not worthy to have you enter under my roof; only say the word and my servant will be healed.

5 When he entered Capernaum,[a] a centurion approached him and appealed to him, 6 saying, “Lord, my servant is lying at home paralyzed, suffering dreadfully.” 7 He said to him, “I will come and cure him.” 8 The centurion said in reply,[b] “Lord, I am not worthy to have you enter under my roof; only say the word and my servant will be healed. 9 For I too am a person subject to authority, with soldiers subject to me. And I say to one, ‘Go,’ and he goes; and to another, ‘Come here,’ and he comes; and to my slave, ‘Do this,’ and he does it.” 10 When Jesus heard this, he was amazed and said to those following him, “Amen, I say to you, in no one in Israel[c] have I found such faith. 11 I say to you,[d] many will come from the east and the west, and will recline with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob at the banquet in the kingdom of heaven, 12 but the children of the kingdom will be driven out into the outer darkness, where there will be wailing and grinding of teeth.” 13 And Jesus said to the centurion, “You may go; as you have believed, let it be done for you.” And at that very hour [his] servant was healed.
[e] 14 Jesus entered the house of Peter, and saw his mother-in-law lying in bed with a fever. 15 He touched her hand, the fever left her, and she rose and waited on him.
16 When it was evening, they brought him many who were possessed by demons, and he drove out the spirits by a word[f] and cured all the sick, 17 to fulfill what had been said by Isaiah the prophet:[g]
“He took away our infirmities
and bore our diseases.”-Matthew8:5-17

The stories are a demonstration of Jesus as The Doctor and Divine Healer. When my father was hospitalized a few days ago, I had a good opportunity to observe the doctors and nurses. I am saddened that some doctors use their profession to get rich by actually charging expensively their patients for their medical and professional services. Jesus is reminding those in the medical field to be true to their profession - primarily to heal the patients first and foremost. It is never about the profit, the fee, the luxury, the prestige of being a doctor. It is all about the welfare, wellness and health of those who suffer from sickness.

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What's your miracle story?

“Do not be afraid; just have faith.”

21 When Jesus had crossed again [in the boat] to the other side, a large crowd gathered around him, and he stayed close to the sea. 22 One of the synagogue officials, named Jairus, came forward. Seeing him he fell at his feet 23 and pleaded earnestly with him, saying, “My daughter is at the point of death. Please, come lay your hands on her[a] that she may get well and live.” 24 He went off with him, and a large crowd followed him and pressed upon him.
25 There was a woman afflicted with hemorrhages for twelve years. 26 She had suffered greatly at the hands of many doctors and had spent all that she had. Yet she was not helped but only grew worse. 27 She had heard about Jesus and came up behind him in the crowd and touched his cloak. 28 [b]She said, “If I but touch his clothes, I shall be cured.” 29 Immediately her flow of blood dried up. She felt in her body that she was healed of her affliction. 30 Jesus, aware at once that power had gone out from him, turned around in the crowd and asked, “Who has touched my clothes?” 31 But his disciples said to him, “You see how the crowd is pressing upon you, and yet you ask, ‘Who touched me?’” 32 And he looked around to see who had done it. 33 The woman, realizing what had happened to her, approached in fear and trembling. She fell down before Jesus and told him the whole truth. 34 He said to her, “Daughter, your faith has saved you. Go in peace and be cured of your affliction.”
35 [c]While he was still speaking, people from the synagogue official’s house arrived and said, “Your daughter has died; why trouble the teacher any longer?” 36 Disregarding the message that was reported, Jesus said to the synagogue official, “Do not be afraid; just have faith.” 37 He did not allow anyone to accompany him inside except Peter, James, and John, the brother of James. 38 When they arrived at the house of the synagogue official, he caught sight of a commotion, people weeping and wailing loudly. 39 [d]So he went in and said to them, “Why this commotion and weeping? The child is not dead but asleep.” 40 And they ridiculed him. Then he put them all out. He took along the child’s father and mother and those who were with him and entered the room where the child was. 41 [e]He took the child by the hand and said to her, “Talitha koum,” which means, “Little girl, I say to you, arise!” 42 The girl, a child of twelve, arose immediately and walked around. [At that] they were utterly astounded. 43 He gave strict orders that no one should know this and said that she should be given something to eat.-Mark5:21-43

It is never God's intention for us to suffer and die. However, some things do happen for a reason, for a purpose. Once, I held on to these stories; and like Jairus and the hemorrhaging woman, hoped for a miracle, for a happy ending. I spent and exhausted what faith, hope and trust in me as I await for a miracle. But nothing came. But looking back at my experience, my sorrow, pain and suffering actually helped me be a better person. It made me see my wrongs. One thing is certain, whether we got what we asked for or not, whether we have a happy ending or not, God will always be there for us and will always make things right.

Image courtesy: artist

Sure Foundation

Lord! Lord!

21 “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven,[a] but only the one who does the will of my Father in heaven. 22 Many will say to me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name? Did we not drive out demons in your name? Did we not do mighty deeds in your name?’ 23 Then I will declare to them solemnly, ‘I never knew you.[b] Depart from me, you evildoers.’
24 [c]“Everyone who listens to these words of mine and acts on them will be like a wise man who built his house on rock. 25 The rain fell, the floods came, and the winds blew and buffeted the house. But it did not collapse; it had been set solidly on rock. 26 And everyone who listens to these words of mine but does not act on them will be like a fool who built his house on sand. 27 The rain fell, the floods came, and the winds blew and buffeted the house. And it collapsed and was completely ruined.”
28 [d]When Jesus finished these words, the crowds were astonished at his teaching, 29 [e]for he taught them as one having authority, and not as their scribes.-Matthew7:21-29

As I reflected, I wondered how is it possible that somebody who has done great things for Jesus is unknown to Jesus? Then I realize that Jesus is in some way warning us about a 'yeast' that is present in the religious leaders of His time. The Pharisees, scribes, priests, and other religious leaders of His time where learned men, experts of the Law and Torah. However, one thing is missing, it seems they do not know the core of the Law which is Love, and Love is God. Like them, Jesus warns us that it is also possible to know Him, that is, we can say, “Jesus is Lord” and at the same time, do not “know” Him. We all can testify that Jesus is the Messiah and yet not do the will of the Father, hence, we commit sin. Classic example is a daily Church goer or an active Christian or a daily Bible reader, yet agrees to corrupt practices, agrees to capital punishment and abortion, judges/condemns others, agrees to torture and other inhuman acts, extra marital affairs, etc. We commit sin because there is no solid foundation on Love of God and Love of neighbor, that is, there is no concrete knowledge of God and His love. If we are founded and set solidly on God and His Love, we will have the grace to say no to sin, to be firm in times of trials and difficulties, and have a grace-filled life. We can do this through daily meditation of the Scriptures, Eucharist, prayer, above all, constant practice of Love like charity. On the other hand, if we are not founded and set solidly on God and His Love, we easily fall prey to sin, dissipation, despair, and “darkness.” What is your life's foundation?

Image courtesy: BlackLButterfly

Bravery today

Braveheart.

1 When Jesus came down from the mountain, great crowds followed him. 2 And then a leper[b] approached, did him homage, and said, “Lord, if you wish, you can make me clean.” 3 He stretched out his hand, touched him, and said, “I will do it. Be made clean.” His leprosy was cleansed immediately. 4 [c]Then Jesus said to him, “See that you tell no one, but go show yourself to the priest, and offer the gift that Moses prescribed; that will be proof for them.”-Matthew8:1-4

And then a leper approached, did him homage, and said, “Lord, if you wish, you can make me clean.” Wow! Lepers are not supposed to approach anybody during the time of Jesus. They must make noise when they are around or yell, "Unclean! Unclean!" to keep the people away. Here, the leper approached, did homage to Jesus and asked to be healed; perhaps he no longer thought of the consequences of approaching a crowd with his condition. For the leper, it is a once in a lifetime opportunity to be near Jesus whom he knows is the only One who can heal him. Perhaps an inner voice is telling him, "Grab it! Grab the opportunity to be healed! Ask Jesus! Be brave! " Bravery is what we need now. Courage to make things right. Courage to change for our betterment. Courage to love again. Courage to start all over again. Courage to ask help. Courage to forgive. Courage to let go. Courage to be healed. Courage to return to God. Courage to testify that there is God. The list continues endlessly. What do you have to be brave today?

Image courtesy: God's Not Dead

A Beautiful Blessing

What, then, will this child be?

57 When the time arrived for Elizabeth to have her child she gave birth to a son. 58 Her neighbors and relatives heard that the Lord had shown his great mercy toward her, and they rejoiced with her. 59 [a]When they came on the eighth day to circumcise the child, they were going to call him Zechariah after his father, 60 but his mother said in reply, “No. He will be called John.” 61 But they answered her, “There is no one among your relatives who has this name.” 62 So they made signs, asking his father what he wished him to be called. 63 He asked for a tablet and wrote, “John is his name,” and all were amazed. 64 Immediately his mouth was opened, his tongue freed, and he spoke blessing God. 65 Then fear came upon all their neighbors, and all these matters were discussed throughout the hill country of Judea. 66 All who heard these things took them to heart, saying, “What, then, will this child be?” For surely the hand of the Lord was with him.
... 80 The child grew and became strong in spirit, and he was in the desert until the day of his manifestation to Israel.-Luke1:57-80

“What, then, will this child be?” Every child has a promising future. S/He can be the next president, an astronaut, a company founder, a well-meaning medical doctor, a brilliant scientist, a beloved child that will be there for his/her parents, etc. A baby is never a mistake because primarily it did not choose to be conceived, it did not choose his/her parents, it did not choose the time, place and circumstances of its birth. A baby is always a blessing even though the circumstances surrounding his/her conception might be a little wrong. Why condemn an innocent and pure baby for the wrongs made his/her parents? St. John the Baptist's birth is a reminder to us all that a baby is a blessing from the Lord, a beautiful creation of God fashioned after His image and likeness.

Image courtesy: artist

Jesus' Strong Teaching

Food for Life.

6 “Do not give what is holy to dogs,[a] or throw your pearls before swine, lest they trample them underfoot, and turn and tear you to pieces.
7 “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. 8 For everyone who asks, receives; and the one who seeks, finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened. 9 Which one of you would hand his son a stone when he asks for a loaf of bread,[b] 10 or a snake when he asks for a fish? 11 If you then, who are wicked, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give good things to those who ask him.
12 [c]“Do to others whatever you would have them do to you. This is the law and the prophets.
13 [d]“Enter through the narrow gate;[e] for the gate is wide and the road broad that leads to destruction, and those who enter through it are many. 14 How narrow the gate and constricted the road that leads to life. And those who find it are few.-Matthew7:6-14

Jesus says it all. Everything is as clear as water. What do you say? 

Words said in Love

Stop judging.

1 [a]“Stop judging,[b] that you may not be judged. 2 For as you judge, so will you be judged, and the measure with which you measure will be measured out to you. 3 Why do you notice the splinter in your brother’s eye, but do not perceive the wooden beam in your own eye? 4 How can you say to your brother, ‘Let me remove that splinter from your eye,’ while the wooden beam is in your eye? 5 You hypocrite,[c] remove the wooden beam from your eye first; then you will see clearly to remove the splinter from your brother’s eye.-Matthew7:1-5

Is it really difficult to be quiet and just refrain oneself from passing judgment? Nowadays, people demand the freedom to express. However, freedom to express does not necessarily mean being harsh, rude and ruthless in speech. I do not agree that harsh, rude and ruthless speech (or bashing to some) is freedom of speech because real freedom is knowing what to say, how to say it, and saying it with love and respect. It is not an impediment or a hindrance but as a way of exercising responsibly that freedom. I do not agree that freedom of speech is all about what we say only, rather, it has something to do also with the effect it will cause others.

One day I was dining with some friends, and one of us happened to be the cook. One friend said out loud that the food is bland. I shushed her and said that we are only eating, we did not cook, we ought to be thankful for the effort of our other friend to cook, and that the food is still a blessing. But my friend said, "Why? Can't I express an opinion?" I said, "Of course, you can. But you do it while considering the feelings of the other person who exerted effort for us." Yes, there is, I think, a thin line between expressing an opinion and judging others. For me, whether it is sharing an opinion, voicing out one's self, fraternal correction, etc., it should be done with love, respect and concern.

Image courtesy: artist

Quiet! Be still!

Powerful!

35 [a]On that day, as evening drew on, he said to them, “Let us cross to the other side.” 36 Leaving the crowd, they took him with them in the boat just as he was. And other boats were with him. 37 A violent squall came up and waves were breaking over the boat, so that it was already filling up. 38 Jesus was in the stern, asleep on a cushion. They woke him and said to him, “Teacher, do you not care that we are perishing?” 39 He woke up, rebuked the wind, and said to the sea, “Quiet! Be still!”[b] The wind ceased and there was great calm. 40 Then he asked them, “Why are you terrified? Do you not yet have faith?” 41 [c]They were filled with great awe and said to one another, “Who then is this whom even wind and sea obey?”-Mark4:35-41

"Let us cross to the other side." Jesus is aware of His mission. He knows if something is accomplished. If He can stay for days in a town, He can leave when it is time to do so. Certain things end. Certain episodes in our life end. We have to acknowledge if something has come to an end. And if we are aware of endings in our life, we should also be aware and open for the brand new beginnings and new chapters in our life.

'Jesus was in the stern, asleep on a cushion... “Quiet! Be still!”' Sometimes this is what we are supposed to do in times of crisis - to sleep and relax in faith that God will help us, to be quiet and be still during rough times, and to say in our difficulties, 'Quiet! Be still!'

Image courtesy: The Bible (History Channel)

Seeking something?

You cannot serve two masters.

24 [a]“No one can serve two masters. He will either hate one and love the other, or be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon.
[b] 25 “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat [or drink], or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food and the body more than clothing? 26 Look at the birds in the sky; they do not sow or reap, they gather nothing into barns, yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are not you more important than they? 27 Can any of you by worrying add a single moment to your life-span?[c] 28 Why are you anxious about clothes? Learn from the way the wild flowers grow. They do not work or spin. 29 But I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was clothed like one of them. 30 [d]If God so clothes the grass of the field, which grows today and is thrown into the oven tomorrow, will he not much more provide for you, O you of little faith? 31 So do not worry and say, ‘What are we to eat?’ or ‘What are we to drink?’ or ‘What are we to wear?’ 32 All these things the pagans seek. Your heavenly Father knows that you need them all. 33 But seek first the kingdom [of God] and his righteousness,[e] and all these things will be given you besides. 34 Do not worry about tomorrow; tomorrow will take care of itself. Sufficient for a day is its own evil.-Matthew6:24-34

It is very true - we cannot serve two masters. We cannot serve God and mammon; we cannot give 100% to two jobs; we cannot give our heart - our complete love - to two persons. There has to be one only. Jesus today is not saying we must not work or we do not need money. Remember, we need money to pay our bills, to pay our taxes, to buy some things at the house. Jesus is teaching and helping us remember that He is the Great Provider; He knows and provides speedily for our needs. We need not worry because He will help us, but we have to give our best and we have to help ourselves too. Our focus must be God only. As Jesus said, "...seek first the kingdom [of God] and his righteousness,[e] and all these things [material needs] will be given you besides."

Image courtesy: God's Not Dead

What's your treasure?

Real treasures.

19 [a]“Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and decay destroy, and thieves break in and steal. 20 But store up treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor decay destroys, nor thieves break in and steal. 21 For where your treasure is, there also will your heart be.
[b] 22 “The lamp of the body is the eye. If your eye is sound, your whole body will be filled with light; 23 but if your eye is bad, your whole body will be in darkness. And if the light in you is darkness, how great will the darkness be.-Matthew6:19-23

Jesus is not saying we should get rid of material things in our life. We need to pay our bills, we need to buy things for our daily living, we need communication, we need things to accomplish work. Jesus is teaching us to be responsible stewards. And as responsible stewards, we have to be aware that material things are temporary and passing only, and that it is supposed to be used responsibly. We cannot bring them when we die anyway. The purpose of these earthly and material things is to help us be a better version of our self so that we can truly store real treasures in Heaven.

Jesus is inviting us to be very mature in mind and heart, and discerning in the many things we see each day.

Image courtesy: God's Not Dead (movie)

Expression of Love

How do lovers act?

7 [a]In praying, do not babble like the pagans, who think that they will be heard because of their many words.[b] 8 Do not be like them. Your Father knows what you need before you ask him.
9 [c]“This is how you are to pray:
Our Father in heaven,[d]
hallowed be your name,
10 your kingdom come,[e]
your will be done,
on earth as in heaven.
11 [f]Give us today our daily bread;
12 and forgive us our debts,[g]
as we forgive our debtors;
13 and do not subject us to the final test,[h]
but deliver us from the evil one.
14 [i]If you forgive others their transgressions, your heavenly Father will forgive you. 15 But if you do not forgive others, neither will your Father forgive your transgressions.-Matthew6:7-15

How do pagans pray? Perhaps a recitation of prayers hoping that a petition will be answered. Or perhaps a kind of monologue. Jesus is not saying lengthy prayers is wrong, just that we ought not to babble. Jesus is not saying our prayer should be short. What good will it be if it doesn't come from the heart? Will God turn His ear away from somebody who prays with all sincerity and pure intentions even if it is lengthy or wordy? Jesus is teaching us that we should pray with sincere heart, mind and soul, and to pray with simplicity. Jesus captured this in the Prayer He Himself taught us - the Our Father.

How do lovers act? There are many ways especially if love is sincere: finishing work quickly to make it in time for a dinner date, beaming with happiness upon seeing the loved one, braving the forces of nature to keep a date, never a dull moment, wishes that the date will last forever, contented with the presence of the loved one, listens attentively, speaks freely, expresses love, silently satisfied, etc. I think this is how we should be in prayer. For me, prayer is a date and a moment with God. For me, it is not an obligation or a burden, but a moment of love, a moment where we can express love, a moment where we are supposed to be excited and beaming or at least looking forward to it. Jesus captured this in the Prayer He Himself taught us - the Our Father.

Image courtesy: S. Dewey (Praying Jesus)

Silent Action

Purity of intentions.

1 “[But] take care not to perform righteous deeds in order that people may see them; otherwise, you will have no recompense from your heavenly Father. 2 When you give alms, do not blow a trumpet before you, as the hypocrites[b] do in the synagogues and in the streets to win the praise of others. Amen, I say to you, they have received their reward. 3 But when you give alms, do not let your left hand know what your right is doing, 4 so that your almsgiving may be secret. And your Father who sees in secret will repay you.
5 “When you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, who love to stand and pray in the synagogues and on street corners so that others may see them. Amen, I say to you, they have received their reward. 6 But when you pray, go to your inner room, close the door, and pray to your Father in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will repay you. 7 [c]In praying, do not babble like the pagans, who think that they will be heard because of their many words.[d] 8 Do not be like them. Your Father knows what you need before you ask him.-Matthew6:1-8

Now that election season is brewing, one politician would like to make his plans indirectly (sic) known. He did this by showcasing his 'service, generosity and kindness' (sic) on TV and radio ads. All acts of charity must have radio and TV coverage to convey the message that he is the one. It is so sad that charity - a noble virtue - can be twisted by some for personal and selfish interests. Today, Jesus is teaching us about purity of intentions and silent actions. Prayer, almsgiving and fasting should be done with the most sincere and noble intentions. If we can do well when people are looking, we should equally do well when people are not looking. But most especially, we should do prayer, almsgiving and fasting silently and discreetly.

Image courtesy: Brooklyn Museum

Beyond Boundaries

Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.

43 “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ 44 But I say to you, love your enemies, and pray for those who persecute you, 45 that you may be children of your heavenly Father, for he makes his sun rise on the bad and the good, and causes rain to fall on the just and the unjust. 46 For if you love those who love you, what recompense will you have? Do not the tax collectors[a] do the same? 47 And if you greet your brothers only, what is unusual about that? Do not the pagans do the same?[b] 48 So be perfect,[c] just as your heavenly Father is perfect.-Matthew5:43-48

We, humans, love only those we want to love. And when we hate, well, we sure would like to make it known one way or another, directly or indirectly. Jesus pushed the boundaries of love. Actually, Jesus has put a brand new name to love. It is easy to say love your enemies, but it is difficult to do especially if the hurt, pain and anger run deep. But all is possible in the name of love and in the name of God. Remember, Jesus still prayed for those who sent Him on the cross. Jesus forgave Peter and His other disciples for leaving Him. Jesus loved those who are unlovable. He did it when He was very much human. We can do it too through His grace.

Image courtesy: The Passion of the Christ

Go the extra mile for Love

Love your enemy.

38 [a]“You have heard that it was said, ‘An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.’ 39 But I say to you, offer no resistance to one who is evil. When someone strikes you on [your] right cheek, turn the other one to him as well. 40 If anyone wants to go to law with you over your tunic, hand him your cloak as well. 41 Should anyone press you into service for one mile,[b] go with him for two miles. 42 Give to the one who asks of you, and do not turn your back on one who wants to borrow.-Matthew5:38-42

Jesus is not saying we allow ourselves to be abused or be victimized by violence. Remember, we are born out of love, through love and in love. We are born to love and be loved. Violence is not love. For me, Jesus is inviting us to endure for love. Endurance can be an expression of love too. There are certain things that are not worth fighting for. But there are certain things that are worth fighting for, worth keeping and worth protecting. Some marriages have a happily-ever-after ending. Some marriages have a happily-ever-after ending after surpassing some 'tests' in life. And there are some marriages that are, unfortunately, not a happy one. Come to think of it, most fairy tale endings pass through some difficulties like fighting a dragon, fighting a witch, fighting a strong enemy, etc. If the hero or the heroine surrenders immediately, will there be a good ending at all?

Image courtesy: Frozen

 

From Your Bounty

Mystery.

26 He said, “This is how it is with the kingdom of God;[a] it is as if a man were to scatter seed on the land 27 and would sleep and rise night and day and the seed would sprout and grow, he knows not how. 28 Of its own accord the land yields fruit, first the blade, then the ear, then the full grain in the ear. 29 And when the grain is ripe, he wields the sickle at once, for the harvest has come.”
30 He said, “To what shall we compare the kingdom of God, or what parable can we use for it? 31 It is like a mustard seed that, when it is sown in the ground, is the smallest of all the seeds on the earth. 32 [b]But once it is sown, it springs up and becomes the largest of plants and puts forth large branches, so that the birds of the sky can dwell in its shade.” 33 With many such parables he spoke the word to them as they were able to understand it. 34 Without parables he did not speak to them, but to his own disciples he explained everything in private.-Mark4:26-34

Life is indeed mysterious. Some efforts are too big already, and yet yielded no result. Some efforts are too small, yet yielded much result. We are created to be stewards and caretakers. We can plant, we can build, we can do something. But success and growth will never be attributed to our efforts no matter how much it is. Rather, success and growth are gifts of God to us. As the prayer said, "... which we are about to receive from Your bounty." By ourselves, we can do nothing. Everything is grace from God.

Image courtesy: artist

Yes and No options

Vows, promises and oaths.

33 [a]“Again you have heard that it was said to your ancestors, ‘Do not take a false oath, but make good to the Lord all that you vow.’ 34 But I say to you, do not swear at all;[b] not by heaven, for it is God’s throne; 35 nor by the earth, for it is his footstool; nor by Jerusalem, for it is the city of the great King. 36 Do not swear by your head, for you cannot make a single hair white or black. 37 [c]Let your ‘Yes’ mean ‘Yes,’ and your ‘No’ mean ‘No.’ Anything more is from the evil one.-Matthew5:33-37

For me, Jesus is not saying that promises, vows or oaths are wrong. Vows, promises or oaths are in itself good. It is how we humans - with our imperfections - handle the vows, promises or oaths that make a difference. Jesus said, "Let your ‘Yes’ mean ‘Yes,’ and your ‘No’ mean ‘No.’ Anything more is from the evil one." Before we even make a vow, promise or oath, it is much better for us to ask ourselves if we are really serious into committing to something. Is it really a true Yes? Or is it a No? I remember a famous band singer who decided to marry his girlfriend. Within 24 hours, they filed for divorce. Can you believe that?? This is a true example of, "Let your ‘Yes’ mean ‘Yes,’ and your ‘No’ mean ‘No.’ Anything more is from the evil one." If one is never sure or cannot commit at all, then better not to enter into something binding.

Image courtesy: Dreamstime

Sacred Heart

Blood and Water flowed out.

31 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. 32 So the soldiers came and broke the legs of the first and then of the other one who was crucified with Jesus. 33 But when they came to Jesus and saw that he was already dead, they did not break his legs, 34 [a]but one soldier thrust his lance into his side, and immediately blood and water flowed out. 35 An eyewitness has testified, and his testimony is true; he knows[b] that he is speaking the truth, so that you also may [come to] believe. 36 For this happened so that the scripture passage might be fulfilled:
“Not a bone of it will be broken.”
37 And again another passage says:
“They will look upon him whom they have pierced.”-John19:31-37

Today is the feast of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. We are all invited to reflect on the depth of the love of God for us by sending His Son as an ultimate sacrifice for the forgiveness of sins. Many miracles happen everyday. Some are small. Some are too trivial. While others are too awesome and magnificent. All the same, these miracles are God's way of making His Presence and Love known.

Image courtesy: The Passion of the Christ

Attachment and Detachment

Attachment and Detachment.

7 As you go, make this proclamation: ‘The kingdom of heaven is at hand.’ 8 [a]Cure the sick, raise the dead, cleanse lepers, drive out demons. Without cost you have received; without cost you are to give. 9 Do not take gold or silver or copper for your belts; 10 no sack for the journey, or a second tunic, or sandals, or walking stick. The laborer deserves his keep. 11 Whatever town or village you enter, look for a worthy person in it, and stay there until you leave. 12 As you enter a house, wish it peace. 13 If the house is worthy, let your peace come upon it; if not, let your peace return to you.[b]-Matthew10:7-13

When my friends and I would meet before, we have to wait and wait for the late person to arrive. Now, with phones readily available, we can proceed with other things and the late person will just catch up. With this, we can accomplish much rather than sitting and waiting for the late comers to arrive. I remember this experience when I read the Gospel reading because so many would say, 'I cannot live without a phone. I would die.' But the truth is, we can. I lived at a time when mobile phones are for the ultra elite only. No one can afford it. No one even wants to use it because it seems so expensive before. But now, everybody has one and is very affordable. It is true that it has many uses. But it is also true that we can live without it. Jesus today is teaching us about attachment and detachment. Too much detachment is not good. Too much attachment is not good too. What we all need is a balance of attachment and detachment. What we all must learn is the capacity to recognize and meet our needs (i.e. basic and daily needs), and letting go of the things that we want but not needed at all (i.e. a new phone when we already have one or a new bag when we still have one or two that can still be used). 

The Law

The Law.

17 [a]“Do not think that I have come to abolish the law or the prophets. I have come not to abolish but to fulfill. 18 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. 19 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.[b]-Matthew5:17-19

It is very clear that Jesus did not come to abolish the law but to fulfill it. However, there is a big difference between fulfilling the law and merely observing it because it is what is taught. Jesus' way of fulfilling the law is by living out the very heart of the law - Love and Peace. Why is it that everything and everywhere we go, there is a law? Without the law there is chaos, even the universe has a law of its own. But laws do not impede or block our happiness. Rather, it directs us to the right path to happiness and holiness. The heart of the law is Love and Peace. If one has love and peace, then the law is in his/her heart. If love, peace and law is in one's heart, then God resides in the person.

Image courtesy: Hubblesite.org