Mysteries are Born

Life is full of mysteries.

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

Yesterday, I was reading about the finding of scientists on our planet's magnetic field. According to them, the magnetic field mystery is mystery no more! However, science for me is like a sponge. When you look at it on first glance, it seems compact and solid, meaning - full of answers. But once you look at it closer or squeeze it, you will find that it is hollow inside, meaning - there is still a vast and endless abyss of mystery and unanswered questions. Much of the world and much of life is left unanswered. I was asking myself why - in the very first place - there is a magnetic field. Why of all things in this world, a magnetic field was there at the core of the planet? Is there a more and deeper explanation to its existence? Take a look also at the seed. Why does a seed turn into a grown plant when planted? Why can't it turn bigger and bigger instead? Why did Jane chose John for a husband despite the fact that he is far from being a prince charming? In the same way, the Word of God, once planted in our lives, grows and we know not why, but all that we see are the acts of love and kindness that we do to others. Jesus continues inviting us to enter the mystery of His plan and purpose for us. We know not why we are created, but the moment we love and do good to others, we are given glimpses and answers to our existence.

Image courtesy: artist (abyss)

Pay Attention

... with the measure you use, it will be measured to you...

21 And he said to them, “Is a lamp brought in to be put under a basket, or under a bed, and not on a stand? 22 For nothing is hidden except to be made manifest; nor is anything secret except to come to light. 23 If anyone has ears to hear, let him hear.” 24 And he said to them, “Pay attention to what you hear: with the measure you use, it will be measured to you, and still more will be added to you. 25 For to the one who has, more will be given, and from the one who has not, even what he has will be taken away.”-Mark4:21-25

Each person has a purpose and it will always be made known. Even if s/he hides it or makes it a secret, it will always be made known. Several times did Jesus prevent people (and even evil spirits) from saying who He really was, yet it cannot remain a secret. We all have flaws, shortcomings and moments of sinfulness. But it is not who we really are and it is not the purpose of our creation. We are created for one purpose and that is to LOVE - to love God and our neighbor. From love comes fear of the Lord, forgiveness, humility, gratitude, mercy, compassion and so much more.

"The measure you use, it will be measured to you, and still more will be added to you." The love that we give will return back to us, much more even. The evil that we do to others will return back to us, much more even. That's why it is better to live our lives according to the light and guidance of God.

Image courtesy: D.Lambert

Rise Again

What will you do with the Word of God?

1 [a]On another occasion he began to teach by the sea.

... 3 [c]“Hear this! A sower went out to sow. 4 And as he sowed, some seed fell on the path, and the birds came and ate it up. 5 Other seed fell on rocky ground where it had little soil. It sprang up at once because the soil was not deep. 6 And when the sun rose, it was scorched and it withered for lack of roots. 7 Some seed fell among thorns, and the thorns grew up and choked it and it produced no grain. 8 And some seed fell on rich soil and produced fruit. It came up and grew and yielded thirty, sixty, and a hundredfold.” 9 He added, “Whoever has ears to hear ought to hear.”

... 13 [e]Jesus said to them, “Do you not understand this parable? Then how will you understand any of the parables? 14 The sower sows the word. 15 These are the ones on the path where the word is sown. As soon as they hear, Satan comes at once and takes away the word sown in them. 16 And these are the ones sown on rocky ground who, when they hear the word, receive it at once with joy. 17 But they have no root; they last only for a time. Then when tribulation or persecution comes because of the word, they quickly fall away. 18 Those sown among thorns are another sort. They are the people who hear the word, 19 but worldly anxiety, the lure of riches, and the craving for other things intrude and choke the word, and it bears no fruit. 20 But those sown on rich soil are the ones who hear the word and accept it and bear fruit thirty and sixty and a hundredfold.”-Mark4:1-20

When I was young, my teacher would ask us which soil do we belong. Of course, answering logically, we all say, "The rich soil!" Nobody would say that s/he belonged to the path, or to the rocky ground, or to the thorny area. However, I realized that the four areas where the seed feel are our acceptance of the Word in our lives. As I look back on my experiences during meditation, I realized that I have been into the 4 areas at certain points in my life. I have been into the 4 areas in one day even! Like those people who received the Word and quickly forgot it, I am guilty of not listening to the priest's homily sometimes. Like those people who received the Word with joy but when trials came, fall away, I am guilty of being defensive and a little proud when confronted during difficult times before. Like those people who fall and forgot the Word in the face of pleasure, worldly concerns and lures of riches, I am guilty of giving in to these temptations before. But, just like those who bore fruit thirty, sixty and a hundredfold, I am happy to say that, yes, I bore fruit too and still bearing fruit. Jesus' constant invitation for us is to continue bearing fruit. We may fall, we may fail, but what is more important is rising again and continuing to bear fruit through acts of kindness and even little acts of love. What is more important is we listened to the Word of God and His will for us, and planted it in our hearts and in our lives.

Image courtesy: artist

Brothers and Sisters in Christ

True relationship goes beyond one's bloodline.

31 His mother and his brothers arrived. Standing outside they sent word to him and called him. 32 A crowd seated around him told him, “Your mother and your brothers[a] [and your sisters] are outside asking for you.” 33 But he said to them in reply, “Who are my mother and [my] brothers?” 34 And looking around at those seated in the circle he said, “Here are my mother and my brothers. 35 [For] whoever does the will of God is my brother and sister and mother.”-Mark3:31-35

During the time of Jesus, each Jew knew that s/he belonged to the chosen race because they descended from Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. But Jesus says otherwise. It is not because of one's ancestry or bloodline or affinity that makes one His brother, mother or sister, rather, 'whoever does the will of God is my brother and sister and mother.' We are God's children. We are all chosen. We are all favored if we do the will of God.

Let us not be confused by Jesus' brothers, sisters and mother. We all know that Mary is His Mother, and she remained a virgin in the end. But 'brothers and sisters' are also used to address one's cousins and relatives as in the Book of Tobit ["... Then Tobias said to Raphael, 'Brother Azarias, will you ask Raguel to give me my sister Sarah?'" - Tobit7:9]. As in the excerpt, Tobit addressed his kinswoman Sarah as his sister, and the Angel Raphael as his brother.

Image courtesy: artist

A Missionary Heart

Prescription to the missionary.

1 After this the Lord appointed seventy[-two][b] others whom he sent ahead of him in pairs to every town and place he intended to visit. 2 He said to them, “The harvest is abundant but the laborers are few; so ask the master of the harvest to send out laborers for his harvest. 3 Go on your way; behold, I am sending you like lambs among wolves. 4 [c]Carry no money bag, no sack, no sandals; and greet no one along the way. 5 Into whatever house you enter, first say, ‘Peace to this household.’[d] 6 If a peaceful person[e] lives there, your peace will rest on him; but if not, it will return to you. 7 Stay in the same house and eat and drink what is offered to you, for the laborer deserves his payment. Do not move about from one house to another. 8 Whatever town you enter and they welcome you, eat what is set before you, 9 cure the sick in it and say to them, ‘The kingdom of God is at hand for you.’-Luke10:1-9

This is Jesus' prescription to His apostles. In fact, this is His prescription to missionaries. Though some of Jesus' prescription is not followed to the letter because of the changing time, still, it is the best way to go about doing missionary work - to go in pairs, to ask for more vocations to religious life and clergy, to be brave, to travel light, to preach, teach and evangelize to those who are in need of God more (i.e. Godless people), wishing "Peace" to all, to be humble and open to what is given, to be contented, to go to places where God is needed (Godless nations), to cure the sick (if gift is there) and to proclaim the Good News. Each person can be a missionary. How? By his/her day-to-day activities or witnessing where God is visible in his/her words, thoughts and actions. We can proclaim the Good News and share Christ's love to others even when we are working at the office, through our interactions with people, through our actions of love, and so forth. All it takes is a little creativity.

Image courtesy: artist

The Big Yes

Somebody's calling you.

14 After John had been arrested,[a] Jesus came to Galilee proclaiming the gospel of God: 15 “This is the time of fulfillment. The kingdom of God is at hand. Repent, and believe in the gospel.”

16 As he passed by the Sea of Galilee, he saw Simon and his brother Andrew casting their nets into the sea; they were fishermen. 17 Jesus said to them, “Come after me, and I will make you fishers of men.” 18 Then they abandoned their nets and followed him. 19 He walked along a little farther and saw James, the son of Zebedee, and his brother John. They too were in a boat mending their nets. 20 Then he called them. So they left their father Zebedee in the boat along with the hired men and followed him.-Mark1:14-20

The call is so mysterious. Indeed, why did Jesus choose common folks? Were there not an abundance of learned men during His time? Were not Pharisees, Sadducees, Elders, Scribes or "more deserving people" in abundance during Jesus' active ministry? God's ways are indeed not our ways. God's thoughts are not our thoughts. God has planned it all way ahead of time. God has already pre-destined men and women for a role they are to fill later on. The plan is there. The destined role is there. The stage is there. All that is missing is our Yes. Our "Yes" to God is not so difficult to give as exemplified by His disciples' response.

Image courtesy: artist

The Power of Speech

Man can sometimes be so unjust.

20 [a]He came home.[b] Again [the] crowd gathered, making it impossible for them even to eat. 21 When his relatives heard of this they set out to seize him, for they said, “He is out of his mind.”-Mark3:20-21

So much damage is done through poisonous words, poisonous thoughts, poisonous deeds, misplaced feelings. Usually, we find comfort with our loved ones, family, relatives and friends. But the contrary happened to Jesus in today's Gospel. One wonders how Jesus' relatives came with such a thought and words. Jesus is inviting us all to be a discerning people. He is inviting us to be careful in expressing ourselves or in giving comments and opinion. Yes, this is the age of expression and freedom of speech, but we must be aware of its extent, boundary and limitations as well. If we want to hear beautiful words, then we must be generous with beautiful words to others as well. To speak the truth or to give an honest feedback can be given without any of us being rude.

"The measure we give is the measure we receive."

Image courtesy: artist

Somebody's calling

The Summoning.

13 He went up the mountain[a] and summoned those whom he wanted and they came to him. 14 He appointed twelve [whom he also named apostles] that they might be with him[b] and he might send them forth to preach 15 and to have authority to drive out demons: 16 [c][he appointed the twelve:] Simon, whom he named Peter; 17 James, son of Zebedee, and John the brother of James, whom he named Boanerges, that is, sons of thunder; 18 Andrew, Philip, Bartholomew, Matthew, Thomas, James the son of Alphaeus; Thaddeus, Simon the Cananean, 19 and Judas Iscariot who betrayed him.-Mark3:13-19

Calling indeed is a mystery. In the same way, our choice for a partner for life is also a mystery. Last Sunday, I met with some friends, and I was a bit surprised to see my friend's husband for the first time. I never imagined she would marry a man who looks a bit older and not exactly a "prince charming" material. But then, love is a mystery. So, too, God when He calls. During the time of Jesus, fisher-folks, a tax collector, a pacifist, an extremist, and impetuous persons are not exactly good material for religious life. But our ways are not God's ways, our thoughts are not God's thoughts. Jesus saw more than what meets the eye; He sees the heart; He sees God's predestined plan for each and everyone of us. When God calls, what will our response be?

Image courtesy: artist

Wrapped into One

Many people come to Jesus.

7 [a]Jesus withdrew toward the sea with his disciples. A large number of people [followed] from Galilee and from Judea. 8 Hearing what he was doing, a large number of people came to him also from Jerusalem, from Idumea, from beyond the Jordan, and from the neighborhood of Tyre and Sidon. 9 He told his disciples to have a boat ready for him because of the crowd, so that they would not crush him. 10 He had cured many and, as a result, those who had diseases were pressing upon him to touch him. 11 [b]And whenever unclean spirits saw him they would fall down before him and shout, “You are the Son of God.” 12 He warned them sternly not to make him known.-Mark3:7-12

As I reflected on the Gospel reading, I wondered how it was during the time of Jesus when there was no crowd controllers, no security forces, everybody is desirous of touching Jesus on His clothes, hands, anywhere. What's with Jesus? It is mercy, compassion, forgiveness and love wrapped in His person. Jesus is inviting and encouraging us all to be agents of mercy, compassion, forgiveness and love to others as well. When was the last time we have shown mercy? compassion? forgiveness? love to others?

Image courtesy: Catholicmannight

I am Love

... to save life or destroy it?

1 [a]Again he entered the synagogue. There was a man there who had a withered hand. 2 They watched him closely to see if he would cure him on the sabbath so that they might accuse him. 3 He said to the man with the withered hand, “Come up here before us.” 4 Then he said to them, “Is it lawful to do good on the sabbath rather than to do evil, to save life rather than to destroy it?” But they remained silent. 5 Looking around at them with anger and grieved at their hardness of heart, he said to the man, “Stretch out your hand.” He stretched it out and his hand was restored. 6 [b]The Pharisees went out and immediately took counsel with the Herodians against him to put him to death.-Mark3:1-6

God is Love. Our Creator is God. Therefore, we are created through love, in love and out of love. We are created after God's image and likeness, and love. We are primarily created to love and be loved also. Life should be about loving others and God. But God is so generous, that apart from love, we are blessed with more - intelligence, free will, conscience, artistry, and so much more. When our blessing is coupled with love, what a happy place the world will be! But, the hearts and minds of mankind are easily deceived. We burden ourselves with much Do's and Don'ts that we can even no longer remember why they even exist right from the start. We burden ourselves to be perfect citizens, but we lost the essence of why we are doing it. Jesus is reminding us all of Love. Laws without love is nothing. Perfection without love is nothing.

Image courtesy: artist

What will I do?

There lies a higher need somewhere.

23 As he was passing through a field of grain on the sabbath, his disciples began to make a path while picking the heads of grain. 24 At this the Pharisees said to him, “Look, why are they doing what is unlawful on the sabbath?” 25 He said to them, “Have you never read what David did[a] when he was in need and he and his companions were hungry? 26 How he went into the house of God when Abiathar was high priest and ate the bread of offering that only the priests could lawfully eat, and shared it with his companions?” 27 Then he said to them, “The sabbath was made for man,[b] not man for the sabbath. 28 [c]That is why the Son of Man is lord even of the sabbath.”-Mark2:23-28

To be a good person is very ideal. To be perfect is very ideal. To be sinless is very ideal. Though these characteristics make a person truly likeable and acceptable anywhere, what is more important is love. Love makes everything complete. Can one truly celebrate Sabbath if a person is extremely hungry or suffering? If there is a reversal of role, and the Pharisees found themselves in extreme hunger, what will they do? Sabbath is not just a day of rest, but also a day of celebration of mind, heart and soul.

Image courtesy: artist

Newness

New: New. Old: Old.

18 Now John’s disciples and the Pharisees were fasting. Some people came and asked Jesus, “How is it that John’s disciples and the disciples of the Pharisees are fasting, but yours are not?”

19 Jesus answered, “How can the guests of the bridegroom fast while he is with them? They cannot, so long as they have him with them. 20 But the time will come when the bridegroom will be taken from them, and on that day they will fast.

21 “No one sews a patch of unshrunk cloth on an old garment. Otherwise, the new piece will pull away from the old, making the tear worse. 22 And no one pours new wine into old wineskins. Otherwise, the wine will burst the skins, and both the wine and the wineskins will be ruined. No, they pour new wine into new wineskins.”-Mark2:18-22

Jesus said, "You cannot serve both God and mammon." We cannot wade on two rivers. When we repented and reconciled with God, we have to move onwards to God. Yes, we may stumble along the way, but we must continue walking on the path leading to God. It is so wrong to continue the cycle of sin. We have to be strong in embracing change. The other day, I saw on TV how a lady stole a million-worth of jewelries. She was fortunately caught by the police. She wailed, asked for forgiveness, pleaded for mercy and vowed not to do it again. And yes, it was given to her. The case was withdrawn. Unfortunately, she committed it again and again, same act, same theft, same sin on so many innocent people. I am not judging her nor condemning her, but I do pray she remain true to her words of mercy and vowing not to sin again. Jesus is encouraging us to embrace change in our thoughts, actions, words and in within our hearts. Let not change only in words alone, but in every cell of our body.

Image courtesy: artist

Child-like

We are children of God.

13 People were bringing little children to Jesus for him to place his hands on them, but the disciples rebuked them. 14 When Jesus saw this, he was indignant. He said to them, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. 15 Truly I tell you, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.” 16 And he took the children in his arms, placed his hands on them and blessed them.-Mark10:13-16

We are all God's children. Once upon a time, we are little kids. We are easily satisfied and contented with what is given to us. Then, we grew up and lost that child-like gift God has blesses us with. Most people want to be the commander and captain of their own lives, and that no one will tell them what to do even God Himself. God is always reaching out to us, telling us to come home to Him. God is encouraging us to once more regain our child-like quality - loving Him, loving others, loving His creation.

Image courtesy: artist

The Essence of our Mission, Profession and Purpose

Remember the heart of the mission.

13 Once again Jesus went out beside the lake. A large crowd came to him, and he began to teach them. 14 As he walked along, he saw Levi son of Alphaeus sitting at the tax collector’s booth. “Follow me,” Jesus told him, and Levi got up and followed him.

15 While Jesus was having dinner at Levi’s house, many tax collectors and sinners were eating with him and his disciples, for there were many who followed him. 16 When the teachers of the law who were Pharisees saw him eating with the sinners and tax collectors, they asked his disciples: “Why does he eat with tax collectors and sinners?”

17 On hearing this, Jesus said to them, “It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners.”-Mark2:13-17

There are certain individuals who are entrusted with a mission. Some individuals seek a certain profession (i.e. medical doctor), usually and normally with pure intentions. Unfortunately, there are those who forgot or lost the essence as to why there are entrusted with a mission, or why they are professionals. Some religious who ran hospitals originally have pure intentions - to heal the sick. But now, the very religious who promised to heal and care for the sick, refuse the sick if the latter has nothing to pay! In the same way, the leaders that we elect to serve the country are the very ones who corrupt the country! What has happened to us?

Jesus is encouraging us to always remember the heart and essence of our mission and profession. If we are doctors, we do not turn away the sick. If we are government workers, we serve the people. If we are teachers, we teach. If we are clergy members and religious men/women, we do not lose being Christ to others.

Image courtesy: Clipart.com

True Friend

A friend in need is a friend indeed.

2 A few days later, when Jesus again entered Capernaum, the people heard that he had come home. 2 They gathered in such large numbers that there was no room left, not even outside the door, and he preached the word to them. 3 Some men came, bringing to him a paralyzed man, carried by four of them. 4 Since they could not get him to Jesus because of the crowd, they made an opening in the roof above Jesus by digging through it and then lowered the mat the man was lying on. 5 When Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralyzed man, “Son, your sins are forgiven.”

6 Now some teachers of the law were sitting there, thinking to themselves, 7 “Why does this fellow talk like that? He’s blaspheming! Who can forgive sins but God alone?”

8 Immediately Jesus knew in his spirit that this was what they were thinking in their hearts, and he said to them, “Why are you thinking these things? 9 Which is easier: to say to this paralyzed man, ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or to say, ‘Get up, take your mat and walk’? 10 But I want you to know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins.” So he said to the man, 11 “I tell you, get up, take your mat and go home.” 12 He got up, took his mat and walked out in full view of them all. This amazed everyone and they praised God, saying, “We have never seen anything like this!”-Mark2:1-12

A few things struck me. First, the friends of the paralyzed man are true friends indeed. Some friends disappear in times of trouble. There are those who suddenly disappear when their friend loses power, money or influence. But the paralyzed man's friends stood by him in his lowest moment. In fact, it is their faith that contributed to his healing. Whereas the paralyzed man never uttered a word in the gospel (though I believe that deep inside he was crying out loud for mercy and forgiveness), I believe that the actions of his friends successfully sent to Jesus their friend's plea. Their united faith in Jesus' healing mercy was channeled to His heart successfully despite the absence of words. Second, Jesus indeed is a true Friend. Jesus did not just show healing and forgiveness only, but He showed that He is a God-made-man who truly loves us, truly cares for us and is a true Friend to us. How did we treat our friends and neighbors today?

Image courtesy: God's Not Dead

Good News!

God is indeed with us!

40 And a leper[a] came to him, imploring him, and kneeling said to him, “If you will, you can make me clean.” 41 Moved with pity, he stretched out his hand and touched him and said to him, “I will; be clean.” 42 And immediately the leprosy left him, and he was made clean. 43 And Jesus[b] sternly charged him and sent him away at once, 44 and said to him, “See that you say nothing to anyone, but go, show yourself to the priest and offer for your cleansing what Moses commanded, for a proof to them.” 45 But he went out and began to talk freely about it, and to spread the news, so that Jesus could no longer openly enter a town, but was out in desolate places, and people were coming to him from every quarter.-Mark1:40-45

When something good or miraculous happened to a person, s/he cannot help but share this good news to others. When a miraculous event happened to me, I was so animated, joyful and so inspired to share it to others. When my friends heard it, they shared my joy and rejoiced with me. Like the leper, I keep on repeating to myself and to others, "God has shown me mercy and compassion. God truly loves me, all of us. God truly listens to us. God truly gives us the help that we need at the right time. God is with us!" Are we bringer of good news or bad news to others?

Image courtesy: artist

Mission and Purpose

Attach and Detach.

29 As soon as they left the synagogue, they went with James and John to the home of Simon and Andrew. 30 Simon’s mother-in-law was in bed with a fever, and they immediately told Jesus about her. 31 So he went to her, took her hand and helped her up. The fever left her and she began to wait on them.

32 That evening after sunset the people brought to Jesus all the sick and demon-possessed. 33 The whole town gathered at the door, 34 and Jesus healed many who had various diseases. He also drove out many demons, but he would not let the demons speak because they knew who he was.

35 Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed. 36 Simon and his companions went to look for him, 37 and when they found him, they exclaimed: “Everyone is looking for you!”

38 Jesus replied, “Let us go somewhere else—to the nearby villages—so I can preach there also. That is why I have come.” 39 So he traveled throughout Galilee, preaching in their synagogues and driving out demons.-Mark1:29-39

When we found a place that we call 'home,' sometimes it is difficult to let it go. Parents grieve over their children who must leave home to study, or marry or work somewhere else. It pains to leave a good job. It pains to leave a place that we learned to love. As I reflected in today's Gospel, I cannot help but wonder if Jesus felt at home in Simon's town. Remember that Jesus and His disciples are always traveling, perhaps sleeping on the road, eating leftover food. But when they stayed in Simon's house, there was possibly a bed for them, warm food and welcoming people. Perhaps it was nice to stay there, but Jesus was firm and focused in His mission and purpose - He was not born for a selected group of people only but to all mankind. What about us? If we know God's mission and purpose for us, are we willing to embrace and accept it even if it means leaving our comfortable life?

Image courtesy: Perfect Nature

L'amour

Walk the Talk.

21 They went to Capernaum, and when the Sabbath came, Jesus went into the synagogue and began to teach. 22 The people were amazed at his teaching, because he taught them as one who had authority, not as the teachers of the law. 23 Just then a man in their synagogue who was possessed by an impure spirit cried out, 24 “What do you want with us, Jesus of Nazareth? Have you come to destroy us? I know who you are—the Holy One of God!”

25 “Be quiet!” said Jesus sternly. “Come out of him!” 26 The impure spirit shook the man violently and came out of him with a shriek.

27 The people were all so amazed that they asked each other, “What is this? A new teaching—and with authority! He even gives orders to impure spirits and they obey him.” 28 News about him spread quickly over the whole region of Galilee.-Mark1:21-28

How did Jesus teach? Why is it that it is with authority? Can it be imitated? For me, Jesus taught with authority because He did not preach alone but lived out what He taught. He did not pass the 'yoke' and 'burden' to the people, but He helped carry the 'yoke' and the 'burden.' What's great is that Jesus' yoke and burden are easy and light, and can be imitated. The very heart of Jesus' Words, Teaching, Actions and Thought center on Love. And Love is easy for all who are open to it. Love is not about romance only, or the sweetness of it only, or the hardships one experiences for a ladylove. True love forgives, gives, understands, and so much more. Pope Francis said, "Do not scold; heal." Love does not scold, it heals. However, healing, mercy, compassion and understanding does not mean toleration of evil.

I understand why "Frozen" was a major box office hit for animated movies. At first, I thought that a prince charming will save the day, or a hero will save the day, or an act of true love has to be a first kiss just like the other fairy tale stories. I was greatly surprised and truly touched that this time, an act of true love was between the sisters - that is when Anna sacrificed her life for her sister, Elsa. Now that's living out Love!

Image courtesy: Frozen

And the Cost?

Follow Jesus!

14 After John was put in prison, Jesus went into Galilee, proclaiming the good news of God. 15 “The time has come,” he said. “The kingdom of God has come near. Repent and believe the good news!”

16 As Jesus walked beside the Sea of Galilee, he saw Simon and his brother Andrew casting a net into the lake, for they were fishermen. 17 “Come, follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will send you out to fish for people.” 18 At once they left their nets and followed him.

19 When he had gone a little farther, he saw James son of Zebedee and his brother John in a boat, preparing their nets. 20 Without delay he called them, and they left their father Zebedee in the boat with the hired men and followed him.-Mark1:14-20

"Come, follow me." When Jesus called His first disciples, it was clear that they immediately left their boats, nets, father and hired men behind. In short, they left everything for Jesus. However, following Jesus has a certain cost. No, you're not going to pay for it, rather, a follower/disciple of Jesus must "deny himself, take up his cross and follow Jesus." Easier said than done. To deny oneself means saying no to pleasures and desires of life. It means living like Jesus - seeped in poverty, servant of all, celibate, chaste, forgiving even to the unforgivable and so on. If necessary, to live without anything to lay one's head on. To take up one's cross means enduring joyfully the absence of many pleasures and desires of life. Isn't it painful to say no to our favorite food? Isn't it painful to deny one of an addiction? Isn't it painful to reconcile with a sworn enemy?

Isn't it painful to forgive one whom we vowed never to forgive? Denying oneself and carrying one's cross will free us of many baggages and chains in life, and will make us free to follow Jesus. Isn't it easier to walk without any bag to carry around?

Image courtesy: artist and Walking Asturias

Witnesses

The Witness has spoken clearly.

7 And this was his message: “After me comes the one more powerful than I, the straps of whose sandals I am not worthy to stoop down and untie. 8 I baptize you with[a] water, but he will baptize you with[b] the Holy Spirit.”

9 At that time Jesus came from Nazareth in Galilee and was baptized by John in the Jordan. 10 Just as Jesus was coming up out of the water, he saw heaven being torn open and the Spirit descending on him like a dove. 11 And a voice came from heaven: “You are my Son, whom I love; with you I am well pleased.”-Mark1:7-11

Not only did John bore witness to Jesus, but the Father in Heaven also gave witness to Jesus. Why is it so difficult to accept that Jesus is the Messiah? Why is it that some find it difficult to accept that God loves us so much that He gave His only Son for us?

Image courtesy: God's Not Dead

Center Stage

He must increase. I must decrease.

22 After this, Jesus and his disciples went out into the Judean countryside, where he spent some time with them, and baptized. 23 Now John also was baptizing at Aenon near Salim, because there was plenty of water, and people were coming and being baptized. 24 (This was before John was put in prison.) 25 An argument developed between some of John’s disciples and a certain Jew over the matter of ceremonial washing. 26 They came to John and said to him, “Rabbi, that man who was with you on the other side of the Jordan—the one you testified about—look, he is baptizing, and everyone is going to him.”

27 To this John replied, “A person can receive only what is given them from heaven. 28 You yourselves can testify that I said, ‘I am not the Messiah but am sent ahead of him.’ 29 The bride belongs to the bridegroom. The friend who attends the bridegroom waits and listens for him, and is full of joy when he hears the bridegroom’s voice. That joy is mine, and it is now complete. 30 He must become greater; I must become less.”[a]-John3:22-30

The Gospel reading is all about one thing: HUMILITY. The voice of humility easily dies away when one succumbs to greed, power, fame and ambition. "Why should I give it up?" "Why must I go away and give my power to another?" Such are the thoughts of one who cannot let go of worldly prestige.

In our local town, a family dynasty was thriving. The mother or the son was elected to be the town mayor. Some say that they are not really "working" but are just passing their work to a "little mayor" who did everything for them. The mayor promised a supporter that she is willing to pass on the power to this supporter since she has held on to the position for a great many years already. Then, quite suddenly, the mayor changed her mind. Rather than giving the power to the supporter, she forced her son to replace her as mayor. Yes, honor is lost. Giving others a chance to serve, is lost. There is only greed, power, fame, money, prestige and ambition to be considered.

John the Baptist reached the "rock star" status also. Once upon a time, he was thought of as a Messiah or The Prophet. But he remained humble. Then Jesus came. Instead of John holding on to his followers and not giving up his position, he humbly submitted himself and was willing to bow out and decrease so that Jesus will increase. John was willing to exit so that Jesus - The Bridegroom - will take the center stage. When did we show true humility in our lives?

Image courtesy: artist

The Lord's Wish and Will

It is the Lord's will.

12 While Jesus was in one of the towns, a man came along who was covered with leprosy.[a] When he saw Jesus, he fell with his face to the ground and begged him, “Lord, if you are willing, you can make me clean.”

13 Jesus reached out his hand and touched the man. “I am willing,” he said. “Be clean!” And immediately the leprosy left him.

14 Then Jesus ordered him, “Don’t tell anyone, but go, show yourself to the priest and offer the sacrifices that Moses commanded for your cleansing, as a testimony to them.”

15 Yet the news about him spread all the more, so that crowds of people came to hear him and to be healed of their sicknesses. 16 But Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed.-Luke5:12-16

Jesus made many healings and miracles. I believe many accounts of these wonderful acts were still unknown to this day. The story of the healing of the leper is not just any ordinary curing of leprosy. What makes it standout from so many healing stories of leprosy is that the leper (in some way) asked Jesus' will. When we are in dire circumstances, we immediately make a list of what we want God to do for us. We immediately make known to God about OUR will. I had encounters with sick people and hospital patients and most of them would say, "I want to be healed" or "I want the pain to go away." When was the last time we asked God about His will? When was the last time we listened to Him? to what He wants from us or what He wants us to do to be better persons?

Image courtesy: artist

Ministry continues

Love God and one's neighbor.

14 Jesus returned to Galilee in the power of the Spirit, and news about him spread through the whole countryside. 15 He was teaching in their synagogues, and everyone praised him.

16 He went to Nazareth, where he had been brought up, and on the Sabbath day he went into the synagogue, as was his custom. He stood up to read, 17 and the scroll of the prophet Isaiah was handed to him. Unrolling it, he found the place where it is written:

18 “The Spirit of the Lord is on me,

because he has anointed me

to proclaim good news to the poor.

He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners

and recovery of sight for the blind,

to set the oppressed free,

19 to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor.”[a]

20 Then he rolled up the scroll, gave it back to the attendant and sat down. The eyes of everyone in the synagogue were fastened on him. 21 He began by saying to them, “Today this scripture is fulfilled in your hearing.”

22 All spoke well of him and were amazed at the gracious words that came from his lips.-Luke4:14-22

Jesus shares the ministry on us all. The Spirit of the Lord is upon us too, and has bestowed us with gifts necessary to do the work He entrusted to us. Yes, we too must proclaim good news to the poor. And the poor is not only found in the streets, but is also found everywhere like in broken families. Jesus sends us to proclaim freedom for the prisoners. And the prisoners are not only found behind bars, but are also seen everywhere like those who were prisoners of addiction, or those trapped in an abusive and/or violent relationships. Jesus sends us to recover and restore the sight of the blind. And the blind is not only those without eyesight, but also found everywhere like those who lost sight of what is good and bad. Jesus sends us to free the oppressed. And the oppressed can be the men and women who toil hard for meager pay. Yes, 2015 is a year of the Lord's favor on us all. The Lord's favor, however, may come in different forms and guises. Are we open to receive God's favor in our life?

Image courtesy: artist

Don't be afraid

Jesus will be there for us.

45 Immediately Jesus made his disciples get into the boat and go on ahead of him to Bethsaida, while he dismissed the crowd. 46 After leaving them, he went up on a mountainside to pray.

47 Later that night, the boat was in the middle of the lake, and he was alone on land. 48 He saw the disciples straining at the oars, because the wind was against them. Shortly before dawn he went out to them, walking on the lake. He was about to pass by them, 49 but when they saw him walking on the lake, they thought he was a ghost. They cried out, 50 because they all saw him and were terrified.

Immediately he spoke to them and said, “Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.” 51 Then he climbed into the boat with them, and the wind died down. They were completely amazed, 52 for they had not understood about the loaves; their hearts were hardened.-Mark6:45-52

The Gospel reading today is a continuation of yesterday's reading. Jesus gave a bigger-than-life challenge to His disciples - feed five thousand men (not counting the women and children) right on the spot. It was not His disciples who solved it, it was Jesus Himself who did the wonderful miracle of feeding thousands of men, women and children out of five loaves and two fishes only. Not only that, there were twelve wicker baskets of leftover, enough for Jesus and His disciples' journey ahead. Today, another challenge came to Jesus' disciples - fear. I am not sure if they were fearful of the wind and the waves, but they were definitely afraid of a ghost (it was actually Jesus walking at them). We all face many fears - fear of getting old, fear of being poor, fear of being alone, fear of failures, fear of making a new start, fear of new relationships, fear of getting hurt again, and so forth. But Jesus' words continue to ring today and until the end of time. "Take courage. It is I. Don't be afraid." Jesus is inviting us all not to be afraid. What is past belongs to the past. New beginnings do not have the same ending. Adventures are always new and they are never the same. Every venture has a different story and a different ending. Let not our hearts be troubled by fears and problems. Jesus will always be there to help us. He will even be the One to solve it for us.

Image courtesy: artist

God solves all problems!

Everything is possible with God. 

34 When Jesus landed and saw a large crowd, he had compassion on them, because they were like sheep without a shepherd. So he began teaching them many things.

35 By this time it was late in the day, so his disciples came to him. “This is a remote place,” they said, “and it’s already very late. 36 Send the people away so that they can go to the surrounding countryside and villages and buy themselves something to eat.”

37 But he answered, “You give them something to eat.”

They said to him, “That would take more than half a year’s wages[a]! Are we to go and spend that much on bread and give it to them to eat?”

38 “How many loaves do you have?” he asked. “Go and see.”

When they found out, they said, “Five—and two fish.”

39 Then Jesus directed them to have all the people sit down in groups on the green grass. 40 So they sat down in groups of hundreds and fifties. 41 Taking the five loaves and the two fish and looking up to heaven, he gave thanks and broke the loaves. Then he gave them to his disciples to distribute to the people. He also divided the two fish among them all. 42 They all ate and were satisfied, 43 and the disciples picked up twelve basketfuls of broken pieces of bread and fish. 44 The number of the men who had eaten was five thousand.-Mark6:34-44

How indeed could Jesus' disciples face the challenge to feed five thousand men - not counting the women and children? It is but normal for anybody to cringe before a bigger-than-life challenge. But notice that Jesus did not leave His disciples alone in feeding a multitude. It was still Jesus Himself who solved the challenge. Sometimes, we find ourselves before a bigger-than-life challenge. We cower, we cringe, and sometimes we collapse before a problem as evident in so many suicide cases around the world. But today's Gospel is an encouragement for us to be not afraid, for Jesus knew our problems before it even became a reality. Jesus has a solution ready for all our problems, difficulties and challenges long before it came to be, all we need to do is to be open to Him.

Image courtesy: Goodsalt

Where to?

The ministry continues.

12 When Jesus heard that John had been put in prison, he withdrew to Galilee. 13 Leaving Nazareth, he went and lived in Capernaum, which was by the lake in the area of Zebulun and Naphtali— 14 to fulfill what was said through the prophet Isaiah:

15 “Land of Zebulun and land of Naphtali,

the Way of the Sea, beyond the Jordan,

Galilee of the Gentiles—

16 the people living in darkness

have seen a great light;

on those living in the land of the shadow of death

a light has dawned.”[a]

17 From that time on Jesus began to preach, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near.”

23 Jesus went throughout Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, proclaiming the good news of the kingdom, and healing every disease and sickness among the people. 24 News about him spread all over Syria, and people brought to him all who were ill with various diseases, those suffering severe pain, the demon-possessed, those having seizures, and the paralyzed; and he healed them. 25 Large crowds from Galilee, the Decapolis,[b] Jerusalem, Judea and the region across the Jordan followed him.-Matthew4:12-17,23-25

I cannot help but compare the way Jesus withdrew and how we - ordinary people of the world - withdraw. When Jesus withdrew to Galilee, the ministry continues. He preached, taught, proclaimed the Good News, healed the sick, freed the demon-possessed, and so many miracles and wonders. But what about us? When we withdraw from the world or from loved ones because we are pained or hurt, who benefited from it? Did we also learn how to forgive? Does moving on mean carrying the anger and hatred to the grave? Does moving on mean forgetting the circumstances but remembering the pain always? Jesus is teaching us the right way to withdraw - and it doesn't mean shutting everybody out of our life. Rather, it is facing the present with Him to help us.

Image courtesy: artist

See and Hear

When there's smoke, there's fire.

2 After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi[a] from the east came to Jerusalem 2 and asked, “Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.”

3 When King Herod heard this he was disturbed, and all Jerusalem with him. 4 When he had called together all the people’s chief priests and teachers of the law, he asked them where the Messiah was to be born. 5 “In Bethlehem in Judea,” they replied, “for this is what the prophet has written:

6 “‘But you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah,

are by no means least among the rulers of Judah;

for out of you will come a ruler

who will shepherd my people Israel.’[b]”

7 Then Herod called the Magi secretly and found out from them the exact time the star had appeared. 8 He sent them to Bethlehem and said, “Go and search carefully for the child. As soon as you find him, report to me, so that I too may go and worship him.”

9 After they had heard the king, they went on their way, and the star they had seen when it rose went ahead of them until it stopped over the place where the child was. 10 When they saw the star, they were overjoyed. 11 On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh. 12 And having been warned in a dream not to go back to Herod, they returned to their country by another route.-Matthew2:1-12

The Gospel reading is beautiful, simply beautiful. Except for one thing - no one else followed the star except the magi who followed it right from the start. Most people are alert when something or someone disturbs the peace, even if it is a rumor, gossip or indeed a tangible fact. In the olden times, when a person comes and challenges a king's or queen's right to rule, it spells disaster and chaos. Aren't we all familiar with the War of the Roses? Aren't we all familiar with Mary Stuart's claim to the English throne during Elizabeth the First's rule? Surely Herod was more than disturbed when magi came looking for a newborn king of the Jews - a rightful heir to the throne - considering that he (Herod) doesn't have royal blood or any little legitimate claim to the throne of Israel save for his marriage to Mariamne. What to do then with the baby? But what's saddening the most is the seemingly oblivious state of the chief priests and teachers of the Law. Surely they wondered who these magi are. "They came looking for a newborn king of the Jews?" "A star led them here?" "Can we not join them to see this newborn infant king of the Jews?" If they have been waiting for the Messiah, why then did they not express enthusiasm for the Messiah's birth or a little bit of joy or a little curiosity as to what the whole affair was all about? Why did they not follow the magi?

The Gospel's invitation for us is to look upon ourselves and ask how ready are we to respond to the invitation of God. Do we delay? Do we respond immediately? Are we oblivious to it?

Image courtesy: artist

God's Not Dead

I testify to God's Chosen One.

29 The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him and said, “Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world! 30 This is the one I meant when I said, ‘A man who comes after me has surpassed me because he was before me.’ 31 I myself did not know him, but the reason I came baptizing with water was that he might be revealed to Israel.”

32 Then John gave this testimony: “I saw the Spirit come down from heaven as a dove and remain on him. 33 And I myself did not know him, but the one who sent me to baptize with water told me, ‘The man on whom you see the Spirit come down and remain is the one who will baptize with the Holy Spirit.’ 34 I have seen and I testify that this is God’s Chosen One.”-John1:29-34

In the Gospel reading, John testified to Jesus as God's Chosen One. Jesus' disciples and followers continued what John started, and up to this time, continue in being Jesus' witnesses. There are instances when we need to be strong and firm in our faith. And if necessary, be a strong voice for God, for truth and for what is right and good. Are we willing witnesses of Jesus as the Messiah and God's Chosen One? Are we confident to stand by God even if we are surrounded by people who do not believe in Him?

Image courtesy: God's Not Dead

Make the Lord's way straight

"Make straight the way of the Lord."

19 And this is the testimony of John, when the Jews sent priests and Levites from Jerusalem to ask him, “Who are you?” 20 He confessed, and did not deny, but confessed, “I am not the Christ.” 21 And they asked him, “What then? Are you Elijah?” He said, “I am not.” “Are you the Prophet?” And he answered, “No.” 22 So they said to him, “Who are you? We need to give an answer to those who sent us. What do you say about yourself?” 23 He said, “I am the voice of one crying out in the wilderness, ‘Make straight[a] the way of the Lord,’ as the prophet Isaiah said.”

24 (Now they had been sent from the Pharisees.) 25 They asked him, “Then why are you baptizing, if you are neither the Christ, nor Elijah, nor the Prophet?” 26 John answered them, “I baptize with water, but among you stands one you do not know, 27 even he who comes after me, the strap of whose sandal I am not worthy to untie.” 28 These things took place in Bethany across the Jordan, where John was baptizing.-John1:19-28

The voice of John the Baptist still rings at present, "Make straight the way of the Lord." As the new year starts, we can make straight the way of the Lord by making our lives straight through true repentance and change. The promise of change doesn't happen only during Lent or Advent or Christmas alone, but a day-today "Yes" to the will of God, a day-to-day living out of Love of God and neighbor. But Love shouldn't be equated to toleration all the time or understanding all the time. Sometimes, Love means cutting the wrongs in our lives so that the new "man" or "woman" shall emerge as Jesus said, "Pour new wine into new wineskin."

Image by: artist

A grace-filled New Year to us all!

... glorifying and praising God ...

16 So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. 17 When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, 18 and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. 19 But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. 20 The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told.

21 On the eighth day, when it was time to circumcise the child, he was named Jesus, the name the angel had given him before he was conceived.-Luke2:16-21

A grace-filled New Year to us all! May God's blessing be on us!

Image by: artist

The Word became flesh

The Word became flesh and dwelt amongst us.

1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 He was with God in the beginning. 3 Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made. 4 In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind. 5 The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome[a] it.

6 There was a man sent from God whose name was John. 7 He came as a witness to testify concerning that light, so that through him all might believe. 8 He himself was not the light; he came only as a witness to the light.

9 The true light that gives light to everyone was coming into the world. 10 He was in the world, and though the world was made through him, the world did not recognize him. 11 He came to that which was his own, but his own did not receive him. 12 Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God— 13 children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband’s will, but born of God.

14 The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth... -John1:1-18

"The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us." The Word may be enough for some, but the Word became flesh isn't it? As the Word became flesh in Jesus, He left us tangible acts in memory of Him primarily through the Eucharist. And through the Eucharist, Jesus is made alive, the Cross became real, the Sacrifice was relived again. What is the Word without the Eucharist, and what is the Eucharist without the Word?

Image by: alwayscatholic.com