“The Grace of Confession and Holy Communion”

After healing the leper: Jesus said: “See that you tell no one anything…”

The question is: Why did Jesus command people to not tell others of the miracles He performed? … Because - Jesus did not want people to misunderstand who He really was and what His true mission was… what He’s all about.  He did not want to be thought of - only as a mere miracle worker.

The deepest meaning of his Being, his mission, his ministry could be understood only after His Resurrection.

After Jesus’ transfiguration (Matthew 17:2-3) – after Peter, James and John saw a glimpse of Jesus’ glory… As they were coming down from the mountain, Jesus told them, "Do not tell the vision to anyone until the Son of Man has been raised from the dead."

That is why after Jesus’ Resurrection and before ascending to heaven - Jesus said to his disciples, "All power in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go, therefore, (meaning – Now, you can tell all – all about Me) – Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you and behold, I am with you always, until the end of the age." (Matthew 28:18-20)

Meaning - Now, since we know Christ better – since we now have a greater knowledge and understanding of Who Jesus really is - our mission is - to proclaim the Good News of God’s love, grace, mercy and salvation through Jesus Christ - starting with our families.

As has been said; “You cannot give what you do not have.” It is important that we be united first with Jesus – it is important to be in communion with God first… to be in communion with the Body of Christ… to be able to fulfill our mission… to be what we are called to be.

Jesus said: “I am the vine; you are the branches – apart from me – you can do nothing.”

…And as St. Paul said: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”

The   question is:  What is it that separates us from God, from Christ and what breaks our communion with the Body of Christ, what breaks our relationship with one another and therefore causing us not to be able to fulfill our mission?  For some – they have already forgotten about this word - It is SIN - which is spiritual leprosy.

For lepers - In addition to physical suffering and pain, what was worse was that lepers were isolated from their family and excluded from the life of the community.

Like leprosy, sin has both personal and social impact …. Sin breaks the communion between the person and God and it also breaks the communion or the relationship between the person and the rest of the Body of Christ, the community.

And our Gospel story today is a beautiful example…. not just of Jesus healing the leper, but of what happens to us in the Sacrament of Reconciliation, in Confession.  Jesus understood not only leprosy, but he understood also sin. 

And as with leprosy, when Jesus healed the leprosy and sent the person to the priest to allow him to return to the community, the same happens in confession.

Jesus is actually the one who heals us in the sacrament of Reconciliation.  The role of the priest as a confessor is very much the same role as those Jewish priests in the scriptures – which is to acknowledge the forgiveness given by God to the person, and in the name of the Church, in the name of the Body of Christ, to re-admit this lost sheep – so to speak - back into the fold – back into the community. 

We know from the teachings of the Church that if we have committed a mortal or serious sin, that we are NOT to receive Communion until first we have confessed our sins and have been absolved. 

Why? Because - When we celebrate and when we receive the Eucharist, we are – in essence - making a profound public act of faith (before others, before the community) - expressing that we are in complete union with God and with one another.  That is why we call the Eucharist – Holy Communion.

So - if our communion with God and with one another is broken by serious sin - before we would come up and make that public act of faith - we better make sure that we really are in communion with God and with one another… because you commit another more serious sin if you do that – if you receive Communion unworthily.

We make this public expression of faith when we receive Communion - So that the Eucharist is preserved as something that actually signifies what we say it signifies – Holy Communion with God and with one another.

Again - When you come to the table of the Lord and receive Holy Communion – you are actually publicly expressing that you are in union with God and with one another. 

Confession then makes sense when we remember to connect it to Holy Communion – to the Eucharist.  It is when people think of Confession separate from the Eucharist, that is when people begin to wonder or even question why going to Confession is even necessary.  We need to put these two profound sacraments – Confession and Holy Communion - back together again to really understand the WHY of Confession… why we need to go to confession … Why? …so we can receive Holy Communion - Jesus Himself – Body, Blood, Soul and Divinity.

All the other Sacraments also point towards receiving Communion.

There are people who think that they do not have to go to confession.  And, what is really sad - is that they continue to receive the Holy Eucharist - as if it meant nothing to them – but just a Catholic thing to do… that is the extent of why they receive Communion.

Sadly, as Pope Pius XII said and as Popes John Paul II, Benedict XVI, and Francis have all repeated. ... “The greatest sin today is that people have lost their sense of sin.”  That is because – people have lost their sense of identity – they lost their sense of who they belong to - who they are (beloved children of God) – people lost their sense of what they are meant to be… what life is all about.

People do not go to confession anymore… because they think and believe that everything can now be justified and rationalized and explained away based on worldly perspective… therefore, people do not take responsibility for their actions… because there is always something or someone to blame… other than themselves.

You see - SIN is real. Choices we make do impact our relationships… and have eternal consequences.

And it is very important to remember this – when it comes to sin – venial or mortal. If a person has committed a great sin, a serious sin - it lies heavy on his conscience; but if he is truly sorry, goes to Confession - he is forgiven and the guilt is taken away.  But if you are one of those who think – “I only have venial sin” - you see – if a person is constantly doing small things that are wrong, the danger is that he does not feel any more guilt at all, and so is not really sorry, does not go to confession and therefore he remains a sinner.  So you see, it is as important to avoid little sins as big ones.

You see - If you keep committing small sins, it will weaken your resolve and you will and pretty soon - will be committing more serious sin… that is reality check.

We, Catholics, have the great gift of the Sacrament of Reconciliation.  That is where the Lord, through the priest, cures us of all of our spiritual sicknesses.

As in all Sacraments – Going to Confession is an intimate personal encounter with Jesus.  You are actually confessing your sins to Jesus and when the priest absolves – it is actually Christ who absolves your sins.

We should learn from the man with leprosy who, kneeling before Christ, humbly recognized that he was sick and needed to be cured of his sickness.  Our soul also needs to be healed.

I am saying this with all due respect: To those who come to Mass… but do not receive Communion - with all due respect - coming to Mass and not receiving Holy Communion – in a very simplified analogy - is like coming to a banquet but you do not eat… it does not make sense… But it is great that you come here – at least - and hopefully, eventually, you will be able to receive Communion.

To those who do not and cannot receive communion because of your personal reasons - please take this as an invitation to let us help you get over whatever obstacles you might have that prevent you from receiving Holy Communion - the Eucharist – Jesus Himself - the source and summit of Christian life… So – we invite you – let us help you – and come and see and taste the goodness of the Lord… Do not miss out on the amazing grace of the Eucharist.  Jesus is reaching out to you NOW.

 I think the response to our Responsorial Psalm (32) today evokes or expresses what we feel after Confession and after receiving Holy Communion:  “I turn to you, Lord, in time of trouble, and you fill me with the joy of salvation.” Awesome! Beautiful!

 This coming Wednesday is Ash Wednesday… the beginning of Lent – the period when we are all invited again to examine our lives, to examine our consciences and to renew our covenant relationship with God… Who loves us and He is merciful.  

God bless…

Come and See

As we enter into Ordinary Time of the Church Liturgical year, please keep in mind that any Sunday in Ordinary Time is no less important than the other liturgical seasons of Advent, Christmas, Lent and Easter.

In fact, Sundays in Ordinary Time - are devoted to the mystery of Jesus in its fullness – for us to become more familiar with the Person of Christ and His way of living – and - on these Sundays in Ordinary Time - we focus more on various aspects of our faith, especially the mission of the church, our mission in the world… as individuals and as a community.

That is why - as we begin this season of the year, the Church takes us to the beginning of Jesus’ public ministry… For the next two weeks we have various accounts of the calling of his closest disciples… to “come and see” and Jesus is extending the same invitation to each one of us….

Before I continue on our reflection on the Gospel, just side liturgical notes:

As we heard in the Gospel, John said: “Behold, the Lamb of God” – pointing to Jesus - the same words we hear the priest say as he raises the Eucharist…before Holy Communion -  so we are actually invited to gaze upon the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world…

“Behold” means – to look - but I notice people looking down instead of gazing at the Eucharist at that point.

So, I invite you to look with a loving gaze instead of bowing down and imagine Jesus calling you by your name and inviting you to enter into communion with Him… Emmanuel… God with us… either actually receiving Communion or at least Spiritual Communion.

After receiving Communion and partaking of the Body of Christ, as you walk back to your pew – focus on Jesus – NOT up there somewhere – but Jesus being IN you – and enjoy the company… so to speak… and when you get back to your pew - talk to Jesus and listen to what He’s telling you.

To those who do not and cannot receive communion because of certain personal reasons - please take this as an invitation to let us help you get over whatever obstacles you might have that prevent you from receiving Holy Communion  - the Eucharist - the source and summit of Christian life… So – we invite you – let us help you – and come and see and taste the goodness of the Lord.

That is the end of my liturgical notes:

“Come and See” – on that note - Let me continue our reflection with a story:

A young man, a spiritual seeker, once journeyed into the desert to visit an elderly monk. He found the monk sitting by the entrance to his hermitage with his dog sprawled out lazily nearby. 

The young man asked the monk a question, “Why is it, Abba, that some who seek God come to the desert and are zealous in prayer but they leave after a year or so, while others, like you, remain faithful to the quest for a lifetime?” 

The old man smiled and replied, “Let me tell you a story: “One day I was sitting here quietly in the sun with my dog.

Suddenly a large rabbit ran across in front of us.  Well, my dog jumped up, barking loudly, and took off after the rabbit.  He chased the rabbit over the hills with a passion.  Soon, other dogs joined him, attracted by his barking. 

What a sight it was, as the pack of dogs ran barking across stony embankments and through thickets and thorns! Gradually, however, one by one, the other dogs dropped out of the pursuit, discouraged by the harsh terrain and frustrated by the chase. Only my dog continued to pursue the rabbit. 

In that story, young man, is the answer to your question.” 

The young man sat in confused silence. Finally, he said, “Abba, I don’t understand. What is the connection between the rabbit chase and the quest for holiness?” 

“You fail to understand,” answered the old hermit, “because you have not asked the obvious question which is: ‘Why DIDN’T the other dogs continue on the chase?’ 

And the answer to that question is, ‘They had not seen the rabbit.’”

- meaning – the other dogs joined only because they were attracted only by the barking and the running.  By way of analogy, Jesus is the rabbit.

Meaning - My brothers and sisters - with all due respect – Are you Catholic Christians because you are just attracted by the rites and rituals and ceremonies – because you like the Catholic traditions?  Unfortunately – there are people who have religious practices and they are good at it.  They have relationship with religion but NO personal relationship with Jesus, the Risen Christ… but just going through the motions because it is a Catholic thing to do …

So – the question is - How real is the living Jesus Christ in your life?  

The late Pope Benedict XVI said – I quote, “Being Christian is not the result of an ethical choice or a lofty idea, but the encounter with an event, a person, which gives life a new horizon and a decisive direction.” - Unquote.  In other words, the Christian life is about meeting a person – Jesus - rather than just finding answers to theological questions… not just an intellectual pursuit.

God is not a mystery to be solved or concept to be understood, but God is a presence to experience… experiential knowledge of the loving merciful God.

Andrew and his companion had met Jesus, and they spent the remainder of the day with him.  Jesus asked the two disciples one of the most fundamental questions of life and Jesus is also asking each one of us: “What are you looking for in life?”  In other words: “What is the goal of your life?  What kind of person do you want to become? What do you truly desire? Please continue to reflect on these questions even after Mass.

What greater desire is there than to be with the Lord, than to stay with the Lord, than to know and do the will of God.

 In the Gospel reading, the two disciples saw “where Jesus was staying” – which does not mean just His physical place, but more profoundly where Jesus is – at what state of being – His way of living, His way of acting, His way of loving, His way of hoping.

Jesus is addressing each of us today in as personal a way as he addressed the two disciples.

Admittedly - To follow Christ or to be a disciple of Christ is something we know as not easy.  Even the apostles found it difficult to understand the mystery of Christ – they found it difficult to understand the ministry to which the Lord was calling them and that was why, at the beginning they followed Jesus – we can say “half-heartedly”. 

We are like that – we begin to follow Jesus – but when we see or experience difficulties in following him, when we find it difficult to understand and embrace and live by His teachings – Yes - we may continue to follow him - but without much devotion…just half-heartedly… just going through the motion.

But do not give up – the good news is - you see – as the apostles continued to live with Jesus, they began to know him better and they followed him with more devotion.   Like the apostles - as we continue to live our lives in Christ; as our relationship with Christ grows deeper, as our knowledge of Christ grows more and more, we should begin to see our devotion to him grow also more and more, and, with the grace – that the Lord gives us, our spiritual life will continue to be strengthened.  And we then begin – as one popular song goes – to see Him more clearly, love Him more dearly, follow Him more nearly – day by day.

So let us persevere in our faith....  although at times not knowing where God is going to take us – let us continue to trust and follow Jesus the best we can … every day, not only on Sundays …  

Having met Jesus, the first thing that Andrew wants to do is to share this experience with his brother Simon Peter.  When we discover something very important and valuable – it is just but  - natural to want to share it with those closest to us – with those we love… The greatest gift we can give to the people we love – the greatest gift we can give as inheritance to our children – is our faith - Life in Christ… But – you cannot give what you do not have.

So, the question is - do you have life in Christ?  Do you have Jesus in your life? Not only on Sundays.

At the beginning of His public ministry, Jesus said: “The Kingdom of Heaven is at hand.” It is in the here and now.

What then is your response to Jesus’ invitation: “Come and See!”?

God bless…

(2nd Sunday in Ordinary Time  -  Cycle B - January 14, 2024 - John 1:35-42)

Striving to Make Our Families Holy

Today, we celebrate the Feast of the Holy Family of Jesus, Mary and Joseph – a model for us – as we strive to make our own families – also holy.

Holy Family.  These two words – Holy and Family – unfortunately are scorned in our society today. 

When people hear the word Holy - people think - too traditional – too serious – such a kill joy to be holy… and it is so unfortunate because people do not realize that true lasting joy, peace and happiness, fullness of life can be found in a holy life, God-centered life.

And - the word Family – this word is being re-defined now in our society and it now means all kinds of living arrangements or non-traditional families people get into…  They are re-defining marriage… anything goes… nowadays.  Families have been and continue to be greatly challenged and threatened from all fronts.  

And yet - we still cannot deny that families are a treasure all of us must value and protect and it is a great challenge for all of us to nurture this treasure that God has given us… because our families are God’s gift to us.

The heart of our parish is not this church. The heart of the universal church is not the Vatican 

Second Vatical Council Dogmatic Constitution on the Church states – “the heart of the church is the family” … referring to the family as the “domestic church” - the fundamental building block of the world – the foundation and hope of our society. 

As Saint Pope John Paul II said: “As the family goes, so goes the nation, and so goes the whole world in which we live.”

Pope Francis and Cardinal Luis Tagle both mentioned that we should pay attention to our youth, the young people. And the family is still the single most significant influence to the youth.

The quality of our youth reflects to us the state and quality of our society. The state of the youth reflects to us what is happening in the family.

That is why it is so disturbing to hear and watch in the news cases of teen suicides and crimes being committed by the youth.

This raises the question for all Christian parents as to how to provide a family environment that makes it possible for our children to grow in faith and to grow in wisdom, to seek the will of God for their lives and to learn how to truly love? And the answer, of course, is to follow the example of the Holy Family… our model for Christian living and family life.

But - You might think: “Jesus is God, Mary was born without original sin, and Joseph had to be a saint to be able to deal with everything that happened. How can we possibly be like them?”

We forget that the three of them, including Jesus, were just as human as we are. Theirs was a real family who experienced many of the same challenges each of us experience. At the beginning of their family life, there was talk of divorce when Joseph found out that Mary was pregnant already even before they lived together.   Joseph must have felt so terrible when he had to bring his wife to a stable to give birth to their child.   After Jesus’ birth, they had to escape from Herod’s murderous intention, so they lived in a foreign country, Egypt, away from family.

When Jesus was twelve, His parents searched for him everywhere for three days.  You see, just like any family – they had their share of struggles and occasional tensions and misunderstandings.

Still, the Holy Family made it through the difficulties of their family life – How? - They had great faith and obedience to God’s will. God was at the center of their family life… that is the key… God-centered life.

What makes them holy - Jesus, Mary and Joseph – loved each other – out of obedience to God the Father… they all – individually and as a family - trusted the Heavenly Father – They placed their love for each other – love for their neighbors – within the wider, broader and deeper context of their love for God the Father… simply stated – they loved and cared for each other for the love of God the Father.

We need families like Joseph’s and Mary's -- grounded in faith, sustained by love, nourished by tradition.

Kind of paraphrasing 1st and 2nd readings: Husbands, you're called to serve your wives. Wives, you're called to serve your husbands.  Children, you're called to serve your parents.  Parents, you're called to serve your children… Jesus said "I came not to be served but to serve."   

As Christians, we are all called to serve. The first place we have to serve in - is at home. So, the question is: Are you in your family to serve or are you in your family to be served? Your answer makes a whole world of difference.

Holy families do not just happen. They are something we all consciously create – that every member of the family create – by working together and persevering – even in tough times.

This last Sunday of the calendar year – as we prepare to face the New Year – it is a wonderful time to celebrate the feast of the Holy Family…an ideal time to ask ourselves: How is my own family doing?  Is there peace at home?  Is there understanding and respect? Is there forgiveness? Is there Love? And very important: Do we place God above all? 

Our world desperately needs families - well-formed families whose children can grow and go on to form new, also well-formed, families… Again, the family is foundation and the hope of our society...

Side note: I would like to take this opportunity to extend invitation to couples, living together – and there are those who have children already - but not married, to consider getting married in the Church and to those who are married only civilly, we invite you to have your marriage blessed by the Church… convalidated. Take this as an invitation.

Let us help you to get to the point where you stand at the foot of the altar, as a couple before God and before His Church, and enter into NOT just a marriage contract but enter into covenant relationship with one another and as a couple, as one, enter into covenant relationship with God… believing that it was God that brought the two of you together as a gift to one another.

Couples: Do you believe or think that your spouse or partner is God’s gift to you? That makes a whole world of difference.

Getting married in the Church, inviting Christ to your wedding – so to speak - is a great way to start a family – a holy family.

(End of my side note)

God Almighty, who created us in love, chose to come to us in a family setting. It was in this family setting that Jesus first experienced the presence of God. It was within family that Jesus first knew the joy of being loved. It was in the family setting that Jesus learned His first lessons on how to love.

We heard in the Gospel: “The child grew and became strong, filled with wisdom…” within a family setting.  It is within family life that the new generation first receive the precious gift of faith… making the family vital to the mission of the church and the most fundamental institution in the world.

But parents – remember - you cannot give or pass on or share with your children what you do not have. So, parents, how is your own faith?  How is your own personal relationship with God? How real is God to you?

One last point - One of the worst things you can do and say to your family is how they are compared with other families.

It is NOT JUST, it is NOT WISE – It is WRONG. Yet, many of us think or say something like this: “I am OK compared to that guy …I am not such a bad parent compared to others… so – I am OK -  or my family is OK compared to that family” …. Or  "I wish my children were like theirs.  I wish my husband was like her husband or I wish my wife was like his wife.  I wish my parents were like my friend’s parents. " And so we use others as our standard.

But you see - every family is a unique relationship of unique individuals…. No two families are the same… and, every family has challenges which neighbors usually do not see.  We do not really know everything that happens inside other people’s homes… once they close their doors.  Perception is not always reality.

If we want to compare ourselves – our family -  as individuals and as a family – again, let us look at the Holy Family. The Gospel was born into the family. 

The Word became flesh in the family; and through our families, let the Gospel be proclaimed.

May the peace and joy of Christ and His Holy Family be with all our families and our loved ones today and throughout the New Year and always.

Amen.  God bless…

Rejoice Always!

Today is “Gaudete Sunday.” Gaudete is Latin for “Rejoice.” – that is why the color of our vestments is Rose – which symbolizes JOY. In today’s second reading from St. Paul’s Letter to the Thessalonians: “Rejoice always” … meaning – rejoicing at ALL times and in ALL circumstances…not only when things are going well with us.

But- How can one rejoice when one is sick, when one just lost a job or when one just lost a loved one especially in this coming Christmas?

How could St. Paul say “Rejoice Always”? Always? Yes - You see – St. Paul is not naïve. He is not just a positive thinking guru.  St. Paul was actually shipwrecked, scourged, criticized, blamed, was imprisoned and he had physical ailments.

So - How could St. Paul live a life of peace and joy in the midst of life’s challenges?  What was his secret?  The secret is being totally dependent on God… totally entrusting himself to the hands of God… trusting that God is in control…

Rejoicing always does not mean that you are always on emotional high all the time… It does not mean always feeling like we’re going to a party …but it means there is peace beyond understanding that abides even through the worst of life – because - Christ is in our lives… Emmanuel.

The coming of Jesus – the Incarnation of God – which we celebrate at Christmas - changed everything.  Jesus’ victory over sin and death is so powerful – so complete – that NO negativity, no terrible life experience nor sickness, etc. can overcome what Jesus has accomplished through His dying and rising.

In St. Paul’s letter to the Romans 8:38-39:

“For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.…”

Therefore, there is always ground for hope and there is always cause for joy; and on that basis; Indeed! We can rejoice always… IN THE LORD! That is the key. Rejoice always! … in the Lord.

St. Paul wrote to the Philippians: “…For I have learned to be content with whatever I have… in any and all circumstances… I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. (Philippians 4:11-13)

Of course, admittedly - all of these are much easier said than done.

 It is hard for us to live a life of rejoicing always.  Of course, on our own – we cannot follow this command to rejoice always - but – by the grace of God - the One who calls us to this joyful life is faithful and He will do it in our lives…  He will accomplish it as we heard in the reading.

 There is a difference between faith and trust.  You see - Faith is believing that God CAN bring good out of bad things or bad situations in life… believing that God CAN save us.

Trust is believing that God WILL ACTUALLY do it.

So, rejoice in the Lord always because God’s love is unconditional and unchanging and true.

Meaning – in contrast - our inner peace and joy must not be dependent upon other people… even our loved ones.  For example, we believe people CAN do good things for us but the question is – will they actually do it? At times, even our most trusted friend or family member disappoint us.

Our peace and joy must not be dependent on things we possess; must not be dependent on the circumstances of life.  Our hope, peace and joy must be anchored on something more stable than the shifting sands of life’s fortunes; they must be anchored or grounded on God Himself… again, whose love is unconditional and unchanging and true.

It means being in constant awareness of the loving presence of God.  As we heard in the reading, giving thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you” – as St. Paul said (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18).

As has been said: “It is not being joyful that makes us grateful. It is gratitude; it is being thankful that makes us joyful.” Grateful people are joyful people.

Reality check, we know that life on earth is not always rosy, so to speak. So - Instead of yearning for a problem-free life, rejoice that troubles can actually highlight our awareness of God’s presence and the providence of God.

In the darkness of adversities, we actually can see more clearly the radiance of God’s face and His presence… that is the paradox of Christian life.

As Christians, we believe that there is life after death and life after death is bliss – perfect happiness, perfect joy. Our hope is not in this life only. That is why we are able to rejoice in good times and in bad.

St. Paul wrote to the Corinthians (1 Cor.15:19): “If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are the most pitiable of all people.” … but we are not because we believe in the Resurrection.

So – let us accept the value of problems in this life.

Remember – the Good News is that we have an eternity of trouble-free living awaiting us in heaven. What a joyful hope!

As humans we have a material and a spiritual life. Unfortunately - some of us pay all attention to the material, neglecting the spiritual dimension. You can see it in the way people prepare for Christmas.  They take more care to decorate their homes more than they do to clean up their souls.  People are more concerned with the gifts to give to family and friends than the gift of self we should give to God.

Advent is a time to prepare not only materially but also spiritually for the coming of the Lord: his coming to us sacramentally at Christmas, his coming to us individually at our personal death - at the end of our lives, and his coming to us collectively at the end of time – His Second Coming -  and His coming to our lives every day.

The truth is:  Christ - Whom we are waiting for is already here in our midst… As we heard from the Gospel reading: “There is one among you whom you do not recognize.”

Let me lead you in a simple spiritual exercise:

My brothers and sisters in Christ – Now - look at the people next to you – go ahead - what or who do you see?  Look!  Look at them in the eyes… make eye-to-eye contact.

Would it not be awesome if we can all say: “I see Jesus, I see Jesus, I see Jesus…..”  Now - Tell the people next to you: “I see Jesus.”  Go ahead….

Now, you have to treat them and deal with them accordingly.

Just as we heard in the Gospel reading for the Feast of Christ the King on final judgment, Jesus said : “Whatever you did for one of the least brothers of mine, you did for me.”

Just imagine what our community here will be like if each one of us has this kind of awareness …being truly aware that Christ is living in our midst and everyone has this kind of humble and respectful attitude towards one another.  Christ ministering to Christ.  Would it not be awesome?

And – what is also important is Not only seeing Jesus in others but also seeing Jesus in ourselves. Christ means “the anointed” - and by virtue of our baptism in Christ – we ourselves are also “the anointed ones” – and so we can also say the same words of the Prophet Isaiah – as we heard in our first reading (Is 61:1-2a, 10-11) – which Jesus Himself proclaimed also at the beginning of His ministry:

“The spirit of the Lord GOD is upon me,

because the LORD has anointed me;

he has sent me to bring glad tidings to the poor,

to heal the brokenhearted,

to proclaim liberty to the captives

and release to the prisoners.”

My brothers and sisters in Christ, this is our marching order… the purpose of our lives.

We are all Temples of the Holy Spirit. We are the Body of Christ.

As St. Teresa of Avila said it beautifully: “Christ has no body now on earth but yours.”

We are all called to be other Christs in the world.

Like Mary, we are all called to give birth to Christ in our lives.

God continues His saving work in the world through us.

As St. John wrote in his Gospel: “And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us”.  And so - Rejoice!  Rejoice!… God is with us in joy and in sorrow, in good times and in bad, in sickness and in health. God is with us. God is in us. … Emmanuel.

Amen. 

God bless…

“Wake Up, Keep Watch; Stay Awake”

 Happy New Year!  Today - the Church begins a new liturgical year… and we enter into Advent Season, a time of waiting, longing and hoping…

In today’s Gospel, Jesus tells his disciples to be alert, to be watchful; to stay awake, so to speak.

During these weeks of Advent – we are called to spend more time taking account of our lives, examining our conscience….

In this homily, I will ask several questions and I encourage you to continue reflecting on them during Advent and even beyond Advent… and what they mean to you.

So - what kind of a year have you had?  Take a look back at the last 12 months... What stands out in your experiences?

What is Jesus most wanting you to notice about the year that has gone?  Is there something Jesus wants you to ‘wake up’ to? Or wake up from?

Jesus does not want us to sleepwalk, so to speak, through our lives.  He wants us to be attentive to - what is going on - around us and more importantly – within us.

The late Father Anthony DeMello, a Jesuit priest said: Most people, even though they do not know it, are asleep. They're born asleep, they live asleep, they marry in their sleep, they raise children in their sleep, they die in their sleep without ever waking up – Meaning - People live and die never understanding, the reality, the loveliness and the beauty of living… what life is.

• Meaning - They live and die without really truly loving, without tasting deeply the real joy of living because they are so pre-occupied, so consumed by the busyness and pressures of ordinary life, consumed with eating and drinking, buying and selling… going after worldly concerns and pleasures.

So, people need to wake up, to open their eyes, to see what is real, both inside and outside of themselves…

Being alert, to be awake, to be vigilant in the biblical sense is not a matter of living in fear of the end of the world or fear of death. Rather it is a question of having love and reconciliation as our chief concerns, being grateful at all times, appreciating, affirming, forgiving, apologizing, and being more mindful of the joys of living in human community and being aware that we live within the sure embrace of our loving God.

So - What would you like to say to God about the year that has passed? …

We have another new beginning.  Over the next 12 months, what do you need to be more awake to? What do you need - to do more of, -  or less of?

What is it that you think about the most each day?  To what are you most attentive and watchful?

The Church has designated these weeks of Advent to remind us that our entire lives must be an ongoing watching for ways and opportunities that we can grow more spiritual, and less worldly, less materialistic - for us to grow closer to God… so that God will be our daily guide and focus in all things.

We are called to spend more time in prayer and sacrifice and to confess our sins to prepare for Christmas just like during Lent to prepare for Easter.

The question is:  Are you a better person – better yet – are you a better Christian now than you were a year ago?

The season of Advent is not just to prepare for Christmas Day to celebrate the birth of Christ – His first coming… AND when we speak of the second coming of Christ – it does not necessarily mean only the end of human history, it could also mean for us the end of our own individual lives – our own personal death;

Reality check - we are all going to die someday – sooner or later. We are just passing through. Our true home is in heaven. It’s a great time to ask some tough questions. Questions like, “Am I ready to die anytime?” and “Where will I go when my life is over?”

We need to be awake spiritually. The end of the world should NOT concern us, nor should we worry excessively about when we will die. What we should worry about is in what state our dying will find us.

 the coming of Christ in our lives could also mean - His becoming present - in our daily lives… Emmanuel meaning “God is with us”.

We say - “we wait for Jesus’ final coming to judge the living and the dead”. We speak of “Christ’s coming into our daily lives” – but, if you really think about it, actually - it is Christ who is always present and always waiting for us to open our hearts and for us to let Him come into our lives… every day.

As Christians, we believe that without Christ in our lives, our lives become a chaos, a mess. Without the Lord - away from God’s path, away from God’s ways – we are like the people mentioned in the first reading from Isaiah…they wandered aimlessly. They got themselves into all sorts of trouble…because possessions, selfishness, arrogance, worldly concerns and pride all dominated their lives and destroyed them.

Throughout Hebrew Scriptures, the Old Testament – one thing is clear – that people - if left to their own devices – if left to exercise their free choice - people can easily become self-destructive. This applies to all people of all ages, including us… Our society is no different… which is becoming more and more atheistic.

In our society – people are demanding their rights to do whatever they want to do, whenever they want to do…without regard to other people’s rights. People say: “my choice, my body, my life, my family, my marriage, my home, my way”. As the great St. Pope John Paul II warned:  Freedom must be guided by moral truth.  Freedom must be grounded on moral law which is grounded on Divine Law because freedom outside of moral law leads to self-destruction.

 We need the Lord in our lives to guide us... Jesus said: “I am the Way and the Truth and the Life.”   We need God to be in our lives… Otherwise – we wander from God’s ways…therefore, we will make a mess of our lives… and we lose our capacity to love which is the very purpose of our lives because we were created in the image of God who is Love.

But - with the Lord, even in the midst of our most difficult struggles in life – and a lot of people are struggling nowadays – but with the Lord - we find peace and hope and joy and continue to grow in love… regardless of the circumstance we might find ourselves in.

 advent calls us to realize and acknowledge how much we need a Savior…

… to realize we cannot make it on our own.   We need Jesus to save us.  

The name Jesus in Hebrew means: “God saves”…  We need Jesus in our lives.

And so - We long for His presence in our lives.   That is Advent.

 Jesus calls us to stay awake and to be alert. And so - Jesus is waking us up - so we do not miss out on the real depth and joy of life - that is happening all around us.  Jesus said: “I have come that you may have life and have it to the full…”  (John 10:10)  - meaning – for us to have fullness of life! – lasting joy, peace and happiness which the world cannot give.

 Jesus calls us not just to “get through” life; but to plunge into life…. Not just to “get over” failures; but to learn from our failures… Not just to endure challenges; but to face and embrace them… because if we do – our lives will be much richer and that is the paradox.  This is the active waiting Jesus calls us - to prevent us - from aimless wandering and to prevent us from having meaningless lives.

Whatever this coming year will bring us, all will be well, all will be wonderful, exciting, beautiful and full of love, as long as our hope is in the Lord.

AND - If our hope is in the Lord, we will be ready when He comes however and whenever that might be.

God bless…

What You Do With What You Have

Turn to the person next to you and take turns telling each other: “You will be a saint”… Go ahead and tell each other (WAIT for people to finish)…

How does it feel to be told that you are going to be a saint? For some – you may have felt glad - but for others – it might be quite an uncomfortable thought and feeling and so you might have thought “Me, a Saint?” - but that is our calling – to be a saint.

Being a saint is the ordinary goal of the Christian life. French Catholic novelist Leon Bloy said: "The only real sadness, the only real failure, the only great tragedy in life, is not to become a saint."In other words: The only real sadness is not to be the person God wants us to be.  To be a saint... to be holy is to fulfill the will of God… for our lives…

If you really think about it - Only perfect people – only saints can go to heaven… For most of us – when we die- we will not be perfect – and so we will not go straight to heaven - but God loves us so much – we will be purified in Purgatory to prepare us for heaven…our true home… so we can see God face to face…

As we reach the end of the liturgical year - in fact, we will celebrate the Feast of our Lord Jesus Christ the King next Sunday - the readings today and during the past few weeks remind us of the end of our earthly lives - be it the end of the world, the final coming of Christ or our own individual death - when we will be judged as to what we have done with our lives - what we have done with what God has given us.

The Gospel reminds us that God entrusts each of us with his gifts and grace and he gives each of us a particular work – unique for each of us … in our section of the world – in our particular times – and so we are responsible to God for what He has given us.  So, what is your unique mission in life?

Admittedly - we all do not have the same “talents” – so to speak… we were not given the same gifts and we were not given the same amount of gifts… but it does not mean God has favoritism. He loves us all equally.

Yes - some people have a lot more ability than others. Some people have been given a lot more opportunity than others. Some have more physical beauty than others…Some people have a lot more money than others. All of us would probably like to have more than what we have. But, the important question is this: What are we doing with what we have, be it much or be it little?

And that is how our Lord will judge you and me… based not simply on what we accomplished, but we will be judged based on what we accomplished with what we had or had been given… again, be it much or be it little.

To those who are rich or powerful or those who have more abilities or more beautiful physical attributes or given more opportunities than others – including spiritual gifts - Before you feel so proud or before you look down on others – Remember this: “Much more has been given to you, much more is expected of you…”

Stewardship is not only in terms of time, talent and treasure. Stewardship is also about sharing our faith which is also a gift from God entrusted to us… for us to share our faith.

With all the violence and all kinds of crises in the world – plus also our own personal and family problems - Is there hope for the future – Is there hope for humanity? And what will this future be like? The late Pope Benedict XVI addressed this question and he said: “Christ is our future….. only in Christ can humanity find redemption and hope.”

It means - it is urgent that we proclaim the promise of life in Christ Jesus, Who is our Hope.

The greatest gift we can give our children - our loved ones and others - is a Life in Christ… so that with a personal relationship with Christ – others will also see and value things in this world in right perspective…what really matters…

… what life is all about…and therefore that they will also find joy, peace and hope… regardless of the circumstances they may find themselves in.

Saint Mother Teresa said: “Jesus said: I am the truth.”  And it is your duty and mine to speak the truth.  Then it is up to the person who hears it whether to accept or reject it.” … In other words: We have the obligation to speak the Truth but we do not have to convince anyone… We just have to do our part.

People are so uncomfortable sharing their faith because they are worried that they will fail. Admittedly - we know - that often - people do not accept the gospel truth and values… but we should not feel that we have failed when people do not accept the gospel values, because – actually - it is only through God's grace, only by the power of the Holy Spirit – and NOT through our own efforts, that someone may convert and be saved… BUT, we are called to do our part and cooperate with the grace of God; we are called to participate in the saving mission of Christ…

St Mother Teresa said: We are called not to be successful but we are called to be faithful… - even by just simply sharing our faith and giving someone - something to think about - (planting a seed, so to speak), we may help change the course of their lives – and to bring them one step closer to knowing the living God.

We do not have to talk about doctrines.  We do not need to be theologians. We do not have to re-tell the entire story of Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection.

The perfect strategy can be summed up in two simple words: “Be yourself”. It means simply talk about your own experiences of God’s love… how good the Lord has been to you. Talk about how having Christ in your life made a difference in your way of life… as a source of true happiness, peace, joy and hope and courage and strength. For example, you can share an insight you received in prayer or at Mass. Talk about an answered prayer or an unexpected little miracle.

The Gospel speaks about investing our talents – investing our faith –There is this principle – that our faith grows in the measure we share it…. the more we share our faith – the deeper and stronger our faith becomes.  Just as money will not grow if not invested, if it is not risked. Similarly, in the very act of sharing, our own faith grows stronger.

Yes, it is not easy to share our Christian faith in our secular and even atheistic society and times we live in. It is dangerous… a “risky business”… to share our faith.

Our faith is under constant attack from a lot of different angles… including social media. For many of us, we find ourselves defending our faith…Our society tells us to keep our faith to ourselves… to keep it private… But our Holy Father, the Pope, said: “Any tendency to treat religion – our faith - as a private matter must be resisted.”

If we keep our faith to ourselves, we will lose it…as the Gospel says: “For to everyone who has, more will be given and he will grow rich; but from the one who has not, even what he has will be taken away.”

Life is not made for hoarding- accumulating treasures or wealth or knowledge or abilities just to benefit ourselves….to “get” the most out of life… Life is not for us to be just comfortable… Everything is by the grace of God and everything God has given to you and me is intended to be shared… to love people…. to be invested in people.

In Pope Francis’ Apostolic Exhortation  – The Joy of the Gospel – Evangelii Gaudium -  In response to the question - - Why do Catholics NOT share their faith and therefore why do Catholics NOT lead others to Christ? -  The Pope says:  because Catholics lack joy: because if we have joy, then no one needs to tell us to share and spread the faith, as we will do so naturally and spontaneously, the same way that we share anything that we are passionate about.

So, the question is: Are you joyful about your faith? Are you joyful being a Christian or is it a burden for you to be a Christian?

Our lives – like the Eucharist – must be blessed, broken, poured out and shared… that is how and when we will truly be happy.

 God bless…

Fighting Against Hypocrisy

Children love Halloween because they like to pretend.  Putting on a mask and pretending is perfectly acceptable for a child; but putting on a mask and pretending is not acceptable for a follower of Jesus. God is not satisfied with people pretending that they are great followers of Christ.

 St. Paul wrote to the Corinthians (1Cor 13:11): “When I was a child, I spoke like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child; but when I became a man, I gave up childish ways.”

 We are not called to appear to be a holy people. We are called to really be a holy people… to take off our mask, so to speak, and let the glory of God and His light shine forth through us so that we can be like the Saints we are all called to be…. We are all called to be saints. Fittingly enough that we celebrated the Feast of All Saints the day after Halloween.

 In the gospel Jesus gives the example of the Pharisees. He says they wear all the holy costumes; these Pharisees went to all the important banquets so that everyone else could see them; but, they were just putting on a show. They knew how to hold their arms up in prayer. They said the proper pious platitudes. They pretended to be holy, but they were not holy.

 In the Gospel of Matthew 23:27 – Jesus addressed them: "Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You are like whitewashed tombs, which look beautiful on the outside but on the inside are full of dead men's bones and everything unclean.”

 That is why Jesus said: “Do whatever they teach you and follow it; respect their position - but do not do as they do, for they do not practice what they teach.”

 Humility begins by seeing ourselves in the light of truth… seeing ourselves as God sees us. So, how does God see us?

 My brothers and sisters in Christ, with all due respect, if God were to look at you and me – Would He see religious people wearing a nice pious costume and saying all the proper things, but actually living an immoral life?  Would He see a mother or a father, who quickly proclaims being a Christian, but in reality is really someone who is not open to God in his or her life.

 It is important to say the right things, but it is equally important to do the right things.  It does little good for a parent to teach a child to be truthful if the child hears the parent tell a lie.  It is useless to teach a child work ethics if the parent is lazy.

 It is useless to teach the kids faithfulness to the Church if the parent does not even go to Mass regularly.  All of us must keep in mind: “People – especially the kids - would rather see a good sermon than hear one!”

 A father was giving a sermon, reprimanding his teen age son who got in trouble. At the end, the son told his father: “What you are speaks so loudly, I cannot hear what you are saying.”

 Hopefully, you will not give your children reason to say that to you.

 Personally - What I really find helpful for me – in trying to be true to what I am called to be is when my wife, my two sons and daughters-in-laws are in the pews when I preach or give homilies... Reminding me that even if I could say all these nice eloquent words up here, what really matters is if my family can see consistency in me in what say up here when I preach and the consistency in what they experience with me at home… when I am with them in private… meaning – there is no duplicity.

 So my family will not roll their eyes…while I am giving the homily.

 Just imagine what my family would be thinking or feeling if I say all these nice words up here but if my family know that I am really a horrible person to live with at home, but only dressed in deacon’s costume … if I am not walking the talk, so to speak.  My family actually constantly reminds me to be consistent.  Of course, I fail every now and then.

 The Gospel tells us to fight against our own hypocrisy. How can we do this? For one, we cannot demand more from others than we demand from ourselves.  I cannot preach or demand that others fulfill their worship obligations if I do not fulfill mine.

 All of us have people looking up to us.  People look up to us as role models or for guidance. 

 I cannot demand that others fight against immorality if I live an immoral life. You cannot demand that others to be kind and caring, if you are mean – for example - to your in-laws you've never liked from the start of the relationship.

 If you are young, you cannot claim to be a Christian if you are nasty or disrespectful to other people especially to the elders. 

 For students, you cannot claim to be a Christian if you join those kids who bully or hurt other kids at school.  You cannot demand that others be good Christians if you destroy people's reputations by gossiping. You cannot tell people to forgive if you yourself do not forgive the person who has hurt you.

… Things to think about.

 How else can we avoid being hypocrite?  - By taking responsibility for our own lives rather than entrusting our lives to others.  

 As we heard in the Gospel, “Call no man "father" or "rabbi" or "teacher"” which means do not call anyone your master or guru, because if we have a master or guru for our lives, then we tend to NOT take responsibility for what we do because we can say that we are just following what we were told to do.  

 We call our priests “father” in that they are to be the head of our faith family in our parishes, but we should not give them the responsibility for our lives.

 We cannot be content with saying we are a follower of this or that person, be it a priest or a great inspirational or motivational speaker or whomever and let that person determine our lives. We have our intellect, our free will and the ability to set the course of our own lives. We must take responsibility for our own faith lives.  We cannot have a second-hand faith, so to speak.  We must have our own personal intimate relationship and encounter with the living God.

 We need to have our own belief and our own personal knowledge and intimate personal relationship with Christ… NO longer a second-hand faith.

 Maybe from your younger years into teenage years, you maybe were just a follower but we all need to get to the point in our lives when we can say personally: “I believe in God not because my parents told me, not because the church told me… I believe in God because I have experienced God’s goodness and mercy myself in my life.” … that is first-hand experience of the loving presence of God, the reality of God. So, how real is God to you?

 One time I was watching EWTN show entitled Journey Home and it was about a protestant pastor who converted to Catholicism.   The former protestant pastor said that his conversion to Catholic faith was actually out of obedience to Christ and not because someone convinced him – intellectually.

 Christ must be our guide in every aspect of our lives and if our lives reflect the presence of Jesus in the world, then we would really and truly be followers of Christ… actually, we are called to be more than just followers… but to really be other Christs in the world.

 St Paul said: “It is no longer I who live but it is Christ who lives in me.” (Gal. 2:20)

 May the grace of Christ, whom we receive in the Eucharist, give us the grace, the ability to live our Christianity…to live and practice the faith we profess…

 - Because people are watching….and most important of all, because God is watching.   

God bless…

Give to Caesar what belongs to Caesar; Give to God what belongs to God

October is Respect Life month. While we thank God that the terrible reign of Roe vs Wade case has ended, we also recognize that abortion still continues in most states and is aggressively promoted at the federal level.

As stated by United States Conference of Catholic Bishops Committee on Pro-Life Activities - this year – the Respect Life month theme is "Living Radical Solidarity".

While ending legalized abortion remains our pre-eminent priority, the most immediate way to save babies and mothers from abortion is to thoroughly surround mothers in need with life-giving support and personal accompaniment. This is radical solidarity. 

St. Pope John Paul II first defined “radical solidarity” in this way: “In firmly rejecting ‘pro-choice’ it is necessary to become courageously ‘pro woman,’ promoting a choice that is truly in favor of women. … The only honest stance, in these cases, is that of radical solidarity with the woman. It is not right to leave her alone.” 

The USCCB states that being in radical solidarity with women who are pregnant or raising children in difficult circumstances means putting our love for them into action and putting their needs before our own. Pope Francis reminds us that solidarity “refers to something more than a few occasional acts of generosity.”

This new mindset requires that we come alongside vulnerable mothers in profound friendship, compassion, and support for both them and their preborn children. It means addressing the fundamental challenges that lead an expectant mother to believe she is unable to welcome the child God has entrusted to her. 

This includes collective efforts within our dioceses, parishes, schools and local communities, engagement in the public square, and pursuit of policies that help support both women and their preborn babies.

We are the hands and feet of Christ in the world today and we each have a personal responsibility to care for one another. 

With that in mind – We reflect on the Gospel reading "Then repay to Caesar what belongs to Caesar and to God what belongs to God."

Jesus’ reply makes an important point for both first-century Jews and for us today: - meaning - we can, and we should, meet both our civic and religious obligations.

So - What “belongs to Caesar”? In other words, what are our civic duties?

According to the Catechism of the Catholic Church, “It is the duty of citizens to contribute . . . to the good of society in a spirit of truth, justice, solidarity, and freedom” (2239). This includes a moral obligation “to pay taxes, to exercise the right to vote, and to defend one’s country” (2240).

… In other words - It is for us to observe which we need to obey to ensure a civilized, peaceful and orderly society….  and in that sense - we give to Caesar what belongs to Caesar.

So - What belongs to God?

You see - Even as we render to Caesar, so to speak – what is legitimately his, we still need to acknowledge – that Caesar, all law - has to do with God…  Everything belongs to God.  God is the creator and He sustains the whole universe… God touches on everything in existence… and so people cannot say that certain aspects or areas of their lives do not belong to God…. The bottom line - Everything belongs to God… including Caesar… and that we are called to be stewards of God’s creation – a privilege to share in His divine life that comes with responsibility.

So - When the things of Caesar conflict with the things of God, the primary loyalty of the human heart belongs to God.  God’s laws are primary.

Peter and John when they stood before the Sanhedrin Court, they were charged with the crime of preaching in the name of Jesus, and their only defense was: “We must obey God rather than man.”  … meaning - when the decrees or laws of any government or any organization conflict with the dictates of conscience… we must obey God rather than man.

Everything is by the grace of God and everything is a free gift from God and the sin of Adam and Eve – the sin of people of today - is that instead of trusting God and submitting to God’s will,  they grabbed the fruit of the knowledge of good and evil – meaning – they grabbed, they took the prerogative that belongs to God alone - people do not want to leave it to God to decide as to what is right and what is wrong – and in modern pro-choice language – they say: “This is MY life; this is MY body”  - and I can do whatever I want -

– It is my choice whatever I want to do with my body – I decide what is right and what is wrong for me – I choose and decide when life begins (abortion) and when life must end (euthanasia).

People and the government are now even re-defining what marriage is… and people are saying – take God out of our bedroom.

People wanting to be God…  that is the root cause of the Fall of Man… the deadliest of sin - pride.

The purpose of God’s divine law, His commandments which are being taught/proclaimed by the Church are not to restrict or limit our freedom but to lead us to true freedom – ultimate freedom – sharing in God’s divine life – for us to be what we were created to be and meant to be … which leads to true lasting joy and peace within our hearts no matter what circumstances we might find ourselves in.

A simple analogy is a train.  A train is made to run on its track (like the laws and the commandments of God; they are like tracks) and the train will never be more free than when it is on its track.  Take the train off the tracks – yes – it will still move forward and it might be free to go in all directions – but it will not be truly free – because it will never reach its destination… where it is intended to be.

God is the giver of life.  Human life is a spiritual, moral issue, and when the laws of men are immoral, when they are attacking the laws of God and the sacredness and dignity of human life, then Godly men and women, the People of God should speak out and even protest…

The Church is therefore not venturing too far into politics, not venturing/not meddling in medical profession – in our bedrooms - because they are not areas of our lives absolutely separate from the practice of our faith.

Let us keep in mind the encouraging words of the Holy Father: “Any tendency to treat faith or religion as a private matter must be resisted. Only when their faith permeates every aspect of our lives, do Christians become truly open to the transforming power of the Gospel.”

As we share our faith more publicly, we will be opposed.  Jesus said: “If they persecuted me, they will also persecute you.” 

We all have the same right as anyone else  ... we can express our opinions in private and in public.  We have the same rights as those who oppose God’s teachings but, so often, we are afraid to express His truths for fear that we will be ridiculed or for fear of the consequences.  Jesus says it very plainly .... stand up and demand that God be given what is His! Give to God what belongs to God!

If the apostles and the many men and women before us suffered trying to spread the word of God, we too in the words of St. Paul must bear our share of hardship for the sake of the Gospel.

We were created in God’s image - in his own likeness (Genesis 1:26-27).  Therefore - We rightfully belong, not to ourselves, but to God who created us and redeemed us through our Lord Jesus Christ (see 1 Cor. 6:19-20).  St. Paul said that we are to present our bodies as a living sacrifice to God (Romans 12:1). 

We should find courage and strength in what Jesus said (at the conclusion of Matthew‘s gospel): "All power in heaven and on earth has been given to me . . . make disciples of all nations. . . . and behold, I am with you always, until the end of the age" (Mt 28: 18-20).

Jesus said: “In this world, you will have troubles; but do not be afraid, I have overcome the world.”

We are all called to be faithful citizens and we have dual citizenship – so to speak – we are citizens of this nation and more importantly – ultimately - we are citizens of heaven… our true home.

God's Invitation

Today’s Gospel continues the theme of the parables we heard these past few weeks. There is again God’s invitation and people’s refusal to respond. 

Grace is getting what we do not deserve. Mercy is not getting the punishment we deserve. That is how God loves us. All is grace. Everything is free. We have already been saved in Christ Jesus. We cannot earn our way to heaven… and the only proper response to God’s grace and love is faith – entering into a personal relationship of love and trust with Him. 

God continues to invite us.   He does not force us.  He respects our freedom. He knocks into our hearts.  We can ignore or refuse that love.  But God is always there, inviting us to share in his joy and his divine life.

It is important to note that Jesus compares the joy of responding to God’s love in faith - to enjoying a banquet – a wedding feast - a party filled with warm laughter, rich food, choice wine as described by Isaiah in our first reading.

For our reflection - I would like to focus – not on those who did not respond but on those who responded and came – referring to us who are here.

We heard in the Gospel: “And when the king came to see the guests, he saw a man not dressed in wedding garment… and he was thrown out of the house.”  That seems strange and unfair.  He responded but somehow he was treated like that just because he was not dressed properly – literally.

Well - It means that we cannot only say that we believe in God. Even the devil believes in God but he just does not obey. We cannot only say we love God and that we accept Jesus as our Lord and Savior ... we have to prove it by the way we live.  We must dress appropriately – so to speak - meaning we need to clothe ourselves with righteousness – filling our minds with good things – and practicing and living our faith.

You are here because you believe - but  - Are your hearts and minds really here? Do you really rejoice in your faith? Or is being a Christian a burden for you? Is coming to mass every Sunday a pure obligation – something to meet and fulfill and after that you are done. Being a Christian, having faith in Christ means more than good behavior and securing a place in heaven later on when we die...  A true Christian life means joyous living – in the here and now – regardless of the circumstances we might find ourselves in - even in the midst of pains and troubles in this life – living a life that is rich and deep and full of peace, experiencing peace which Paul describes as "the peace which surpasses all understanding"…

In our second reading (Philippians 4:12-14, 19-20):   St. Paul found consolations in his faith in the worst of times and the best of times.  St. Paul found strength in Christ in every situation. 

(Philippians, Chapter 4:11) St. Paul said, "…Whatever situation I find myself in I have learned to be content…I have learned to cope with every circumstance .” Paul experienced weakness in his life – (2 Corinthians 12:10) – being shipwrecked - being beaten many times…being imprisoned for the sake of the Gospel.

2 Cor –12:10, "Therefore, I am content with weakness, with mistreatment, with distress, with persecution and difficulties for the sake of Christ." Here's the key: "For when I am powerless, it is then that I am strong." As we heard in the second reading: “I can do all things through Christ Who strengthens me.”  Can you truly honestly say that for yourself?

He's talking about his experience, his glorious experience of God ‘s presence and the reality of God’ power in his life.  Philippians 4:4. - "Rejoice in the Lord, always. I say it again. Rejoice." – It means that even when we're confronted with bad news, with our own weaknesses, with misfortunes; Paul says, "Rejoice! Be content!" Why? Again - Because when we're powerless, God is strong within us.  God is not out there. God is within us.

In other words – when we respond to God in faith – if we are in personal communion loving relationship with God through His Son Jesus Christ - we will discover for ourselves the joy of the Christian life, a life that has richness to it, a life that shines and gives comfort and joy also to others, much in the same way a wedding feast gives to everyone – that feeling of blessedness of life – even in the midst of pain and struggles in life.

… And that is how and why - one will not be able to help it - but proclaim and share the Good News of God’s love in Christ with others so they, too, can experience the fullness of life as beloved sons and daughters of God…. Meaning God’s grace, and joy and peace and hope and love flowing through us… not just for our sake but for the sake of others… for the love of God and for the love of our neighbor.

In Pope Francis’ Apostolic Exhortation  – The Joy of the Gospel – Evangelii Gaudium -  In response to the question - - Why do Catholics NOT share their faith and therefore NOT lead others to Christ? -  The Pope says:  because Catholics lack joy: because if we have joy, then no one needs to tell us to share and spread the faith, as we will do so naturally and spontaneously, the same way that we share anything that we are passionate about.

So, are you joyful about your faith?

Pope Francis said and I quote: “I invite all Christians, everywhere, at this very moment, to a renewed personal encounter with Jesus Christ, or at least an openness to letting Him encounter them; I ask all of you to do this unfailingly each day. No one should think that this invitation is not meant for him or her, since “no one is excluded from the joy brought by the Lord”.

The Pope continues: I quote: “How good it feels to come back to the Lord whenev­er we are lost! Let me say this once more: God never tires of forgiving us; we are the ones who tire of seeking His mercy. Time and time again He bears us on His shoulders. No one can strip us of the dignity bestowed upon us by this boundless and unfailing love.”

“Let us not flee from the resurrection of Jesus, let us never give up, come what will. May nothing inspire us more than His life, which impels us onwards!”

It is so beautiful - in the Gospel acclamation before we read the Gospel – about hope - this is the source of our hope – the love of God – which bring us joy, peace and courage to face whatever life may bring us.

My brothers and sisters in Christ:  As we prepare ourselves to come to the banquet feast table of the Lord, let us pray that we are truly appropriately clothed – so to speak - worthily to receive and partake of the Lamb of God….  With truly grateful, joyful and hopeful hearts.  Amen.

When Life Is Not Fair

In the kingdom of God, there is family, there is community – not just a society or group of individuals. In a society – there is this “we-and-them”, there is rivalry - survival of the fittest. But, in a family, there is only “all of us - we – us” - and NO them. There is the spirit of cooperation rather than competition.

In the Gospel parable, the workers in the vineyard complained because they saw each other not as family members but as rivals, as competitors. If the latecomers in the vineyard were seen as family members of the early workers, the early workers would have rejoiced with them at their good fortune rather than grumbling. There is one popular “oldies” song that goes: “He ain’t heavy, he’s my brother.”\

We need to expand our concept of family beyond our blood relatives - because we are all members of the same Body of Christ, of one Spirit, with one heavenly Father… who is so generous … who loves us - who sees all of us as His sons and daughters… and so we are brothers and sisters.

Whether we convert at the end of our lives after living sinful lives or whether we have spent our whole lives serving the will of God, the bottom line is - all is a gift, In the end, all is grace. Everything is by the grace of God.

You see - The Gospel parable is really about God’s generosity, His grace, His goodness and mercy and His invitation to us into a more intimate relationship and that is what we call faith – relationship with God – the only proper response to God’s grace…. The parable is not so much about fairness- but about relationship.

 This parable is not just revealing to us information about God but it also shines light, reveals to us certain darkness in us that resists God or it reveals to us our misunderstanding of how God works.

From our first reading, the Lord says and I am paraphrasing: “My thoughts, my ways are infinitely above your thoughts, above your ways.”

The problem is we often get caught up on issues of fairness – comparing ourselves with others, with one another.

We often feel discontented - because we often compare our lives with those who are doing better, with those who have more or seem to be treated better than we are in life. You see - there will always be someone richer, more talented, or luckier, so to speak.

So, when it seems life is unfair - we need to take a fresh look at the good things in our lives – the things we often take for granted. When we “feel cheated in life”, let us just think of those with less – the less fortunate - and not those with more.

The workers in the parable did not feel they were mistreated when they were hired - first. It is only when the owner extended his generosity to the workers hired late in the day. You see - We usually do not have problems with people’s generosity, with God’s generosity to us - when we are the ones receiving it – when others are envious of us - because we feel special.

All of us are like the workers in the parable who were hired later in the day… and so, we can say that we are all “latecomers.”

If we want to compare ourselves with others – let us compare ourselves with the saints who are as ordinary people as we are. Compared to the countless martyrs and saints who served God faithfully and who gave up their lives for the sake of the Gospel, serving others, how do you think we are - compared to them? - But God is equally generous and compassionate with the saints as He is with us. He offers us His divine life, He loves us, as much as He loves the saints and sinners alike – No Less…

So, when we feel cheated in life, treated unfairly; when it seems life is so unfair – when bad things happen even to good people and when the bad people seem to be the ones enjoying life and the ones prospering – we need to continue to trust God – His goodness, that He is just…that God is fair and He is in control….even when things do not make any sense and even when we cannot understand.

As it has been said: “Life is not fair; but God is good!”

In the grand scheme of things, we can see only a very tiny portion of the big picture… of God’s plan…

We need to be in a relationship of love and trust with our God instead of on the basis of “What is in it for me, Lord?

Here’s the big question for all of us: Why do we follow Jesus, why do we obey his teachings? Why do we obey the Ten Commandments? Why are we here – why do we come to Mass?

– Is it because we want to go to heaven – and because we are afraid to go to hell?

Do we follow Jesus so He will bless us? … so that he'll make our family happy? So that bad things will not happen to us? Do we pray the rosary or the novenas or go to pilgrimages or first Fridays because of the promises - that no misfortune will come to us… that we will receive all the “indulgences”.

I am not saying those are bad motivations. But we are invited to go beyond those motives. Because – in a way we can say – with all due respect – those motives are basically the same as saying: “What is in it for me, Lord, if I do all those things?

Again, everything is by the grace of God. We cannot earn our way to heaven.When we go to confession – one of the versions of the Act of Contrition – we say: “I detest all my sins because I fear the loss of heaven and the pains of hell – and here’s the most important part - but most of all - because I offended thee my God who are all good and deserving of all my love…”… out of love…relationship of love…. that we are afraid to offend God.

All of the parables that Jesus told - always have - as the core purpose - to teach us something about our relationship with God.From that perspective - we can understand Paul’s letter to Philippians (1:21) – we heard from our second reading. Paul is not focusing on himself but on his relationship with Christ – with God.

Basically - St. Paul was saying and I am paraphrasing: "For me life means Christ. Even if I die, it doesn't matter. If I live – thanks be to God! - there' so much more I want to give. If I die - thanks be to God! – that means I will be with God! If I live, I can continue to bring others to God. I am not going to live for what I can get out of life.”

 That is how he found contentment in whatever circumstances he found himself in – even in prison… where he wrote this letter of encouragement.

… and so – for us - What happens now if after doing all our devotions – faithfully coming to Mass on Sundays or even on weekdays. God forbid – what if bad things would happen to us? – What happens when we feel cheated by life? Unfortunately, that is when people lose faith and they begin to doubt. They no longer see God as good but unfair. God does not seem to be real anymore.

Salvation is really when following Christ is no longer about us – no longer about ME, MY, OURS… Salvation is about Jesus and our love for our neighbor and the life that we give – the life that we share…

Mark Twain said: The two most important days in our lives are: First, the day we were born. Secondly, is the day when we find out or discover or realize why… why we were born.

My brothers and sisters in Christ, let us examine our reasons why we do what we do, why we follow Christ. Let us be honest with ourselves.

Let us continue to pray for the Lord to purify our intentions, to increase our love for God for who God is and our love for our neighbors and desire that God would also generously bestow His infinite grace and mercy upon everyone who turns to Him in repentance.

Let us pray that we may serve God and our neighbors - with joyful, grateful and generous hearts, not looking for how much we can get - but rather looking for how much more we can give, how deep we can love.

At the end of our lives, that is all we can take with us – how much we have given of ourselves – how much we have loved; we can take only what we carry in our hearts….

God bless…

On Forgiveness and Love

We live in a world where human failure is a fact of life, and some of those failures are uncorrectable.

Try to imagine what this world would be without a working, functioning principle of forgiveness. 

The fact is - None of us can live or none of us can do anything with another person for very long without it becoming necessary for one of us to forgive the other.  We all make mistakes.  And sometimes we are even deliberately unfair or maliciously unkind to others. At that point - forgiveness becomes an absolute necessity.

Think about these: How could a married couple make a success of marriage without a willingness to forgive and be forgiven? It would be impossible. How could two people build a friendship and sustain it across the years without a working principle of forgiveness. That would be impossible.

How could a father and mother raise children and keep family together - without constant use of forgiveness.  The answer is simple and absolute – they could not. All human relationships would be virtually impossible without forgiveness… without the healing touch of forgiveness.

Here is the greatest irony of all: We cannot even live with ourselves unless we are willing to forgive our own sins and weaknesses. All of us have made uncorrectable mistakes. We have said and done things we are not proud of. We cannot unsay or undo them. We cannot entirely forget them. The only thing we can do is forgive them, and that is not easy but it is absolutely necessary.

None of us can ever be a whole and healthy person until we have learned to forgive ourselves.

All of us are sinners, even the ones we perceive to be saintly people. That leaves God two choices: God can either destroy us or he can redeem us.

Human nature being what human nature is, fallen and broken - if God is going to work with us and relate to us, God must preserve the principle of pardon or forgiveness. 

Not that God owes it to you or to me or to anyone. It is just that there is no other way for God to relate to us and work with us… except with mercy. Grace is getting what we do not deserve; all is grace; everything is by the grace of God. Mercy is not getting the punishment we deserve. That is how God relates to us.

In other words - What else could the Lord do with human iniquity besides pardoning it?

We are all sinners, enslaved by sin and we cannot redeem ourselves and so we need a Savior.  So, God has stepped in and wiped the slate clean in Christ Jesus.  He has forgiven us. Nothing can separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus, our Lord. (Romans 8:39)

 Now, in turn – we are all called to do for one another what God has done and continues to do for us.  Just as we have been forgiven, so must we forgive. And we will never get through with that. We will always need forgiving, and we will always need to forgive.  Forgiveness is a fact of life and it is absolutely necessary.

As we heard in the Gospel acclamation: (2 Cor 5:19)

God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ and entrusting to us the message of reconciliation.

Why should we forgive at all? To mention just two very definite answers to that question.

First, we should forgive because we need forgiveness ourselves. As we pray in the Our Father as the Lord has taught us – Jesus included “forgive us as we forgive those who sinned against us…” or “trespassed against us”.

As much as we have been forgiven in the past and as much as we will need forgiveness in the future, we have no right to place a limit on our forgiveness of others.

Secondly - We should forgive because if we do not forgive, it will hurt us more than the one who hurt us. Not to forgive is like an infection – in the soul – spreading poison through the entire life. The person who refuses to forgive inevitably becomes sour, cynical and sad.

The process of forgiving is fulfilled when you can want or desire good for the person who has wronged you instead of wishing evil to fall upon him or her… The good of the person then will be your intention for reconciliation, as we heard in our readings today, to help the person grow and become a better person… not to get even.

Then you can say you fulfilled the commandment “Love your enemy”.. “Love your neighbor as you love yourself” because love – true love is willing the good of the other… even if the person is unloveable.

The problem is: when we come before God for our sins, we ask for Mercy but when it comes to other people’s sins or faults against us, we demand justice.

If you cannot forgive, maybe you need to examine your own relationship with God and your own experience of forgiveness, of being forgiven.

As Thomas Merton said: “We are not at peace with others because we are not at peace with ourselves, and we are not at peace with ourselves because we are not at peace with God.

Forgiving someone falling short of our expectations does not mean glossing over sin, or justifying it - but it DOES mean always trying to treat people with the respect and honor they deserve as beloved children of God – as our brothers and sisters  in Christ who have great dignity in God's eyes.

Admittedly – all these are much easier said than done. On our own, it is impossible… but by the grace of God – everything is possible.

 Mercy is not about pretending that something has not happened, that sin does not matter.

Mercy is about accepting to love as one is… as God is LOVE.

God created us in His own image and likeness - which is LOVE - and so our very nature is to love.

As we heard in the second reading from St. Paul’s letter to the Romans:

“Brothers and sisters:  Owe nothing to anyone, except to love one another”.

I will close with this story which some of you may have heard before but it is fitting:

There was this man who saw a scorpion floundering

around in the water. He decided to save it by

stretching out his finger, but the scorpion stung him.

The man tried again to get the scorpion out of the

water, but the scorpion stung him again.

Another guy nearby told him to stop saving the scorpion that kept

stinging him.

But the man said:

"It is the nature of the scorpion to sting.

It is my nature to love. Why should I give up my nature to love

just because it is the nature of the scorpion to sting?"

Meaning -

Do not give up loving.

Do not give up your goodness.

Even if the people around you sting.

God bless…

Great is Your Faith

The New Testament is full of incidents where individuals had a face-to-face encounter with Jesus.  But - in all those incidents, there is probably none as moving or as difficult – even as confusing - to understand as the encounter with the Canaanite woman - as we heard in our Gospel reading.

 People might get the impression that Jesus seemed to be unsympathetic and even rude, degrading to the woman - a Gentile – an outcast. It is just unfortunate that we cannot hear the tone of Jesus’ voice as he spoke or we cannot see his facial expression as he talked of “giving that which belonged to the children to the dogs.”

 But - the woman - evidently, saw in it not a rejection or a snub but an invitation to persistence.

 Jesus’ words about dogs and children are a kind of a saying or a cliché that Jesus probably heard all his life: “Let the children first be fed, for it is not right to take the children’s food and throw it to the dogs.”

 And so – the woman, understanding Jesus’ intent, the woman says, “Yes, Lord, yet even the dogs eat the children’s crumbs or scraps that fall from the table.”  What a wonderful exchange between Jesus and the woman.

 The woman understood what Jesus meant when He said: "I was sent only to the lost sheep of the house of Israel."

 Meaning – The woman accepts the priority of Israel in God’s plan of salvation but she also says, in so many words: 

 “​You are Israel’s Messiah.  You are the one through whom God will bring salvation to the whole world – not only to the Jews.  But - Please, allow God’s plan for the future of the whole world to break into this present moment, and bring healing to my daughter now.”

 Meaning - She believes that Jesus has so much power that he will have more than enough left over from what Israel does not need or want. 

 The woman lived in a culture where women were meant to be seen and not heard, but she could not keep quiet because of her love for and her concern for her daughter.

 Her faith was not shaken by the attitude of the disciples who wanted Jesus to send her away.

 So - Jesus is moved and responds to such striking faith: “O Woman, great is your faith!  Let your wish be granted.”  Jesus’ words give voice to what the woman’s words have already demonstrated: her faith.

 Faith life – Christian life is such a paradox in the sense that true believers in God are born in hard times .,,  not when things are going well.   Great faith grows in times of doubt and despair.

 In the hardest times, faith reaches its greatest height.  It is strange but true.  Until we have known great despair, we cannot know great faith – personally. Great faith has always come out of situations of despair, of hopelessness.

 But – it does not mean that we pray or look for misery or desolation or trials - so that we will grow in faith.  Life will bring them to us and they will transform us.

 The saints - down through the centuries – gave us wonderful examples of faith even in the midst of despair and darkness. 

 So, let us never lose faith even when we often experience delay in God’s answers to our prayers. Being delayed is not being denied.

 The silences of God often refine our desires. Meaning - They help us - they give us a better understanding of the God from whom we seek help.  We often come to God for physical or material needs but later find out God meets even our even bigger or greater needs – more than we asked for.

 The reward for our faith is not always having our prayers answered.  In this case in the Gospel story, the woman received what she asked for. But there are many times when the things we want most are not given to us.  And even then, we are assured of God’s love and concern.

 It is the strength of our faith that takes us through the greatest challenges of life.

The Gospel story presents us with ideal way to pray and to have humble interior disposition we must have - when approaching God – with humility and persistence and utmost trust in God.

Some of you may be living with a quiet kind of desperateness or hopelessness that is destroying your happiness and peace.  You may not be able even to express it. You may not even want to discuss it with anyone.  And - hopefully NOT – you may even be considering – something very foolish.

 Let me urge you to do what the Canaanite woman did. Turn to God who loves you and cares for you…

 In the Gospel, Jesus said: "I was sent only to the lost sheep of the house of Israel."

 Yet, after Jesus’ resurrection, He told his disciples: “Go into all the world and proclaim the good news to the whole creation.”  (Mk 16:15).

• Meaning - Even to the Gentiles… Meaning - to us.

• By virtue of our baptism in Christ, we are now Beloved Sons and Daughters of God – Children of God… co-heirs to the Kingdom of Heaven.

We do not need to settle for “crumbs falling from the Master’s table”, so to speak. Those are for dogs!  Jesus’ death on the Cross – our being baptized into His death - has promoted/adopted us and made us children of the Master.

 The Master invites us to the table and feeds us with the finest spiritual food.

 In the Eucharist, Jesus not only gives us food and drink – He gives us very Himself – His Body and Blood, Soul and Divinity. You know what – the truth is - Every Mass is actually a Healing Mass. You do not have to look for or wait for a Healing Priest.

 But remember - We separate ourselves from His table when we go back to sinful life.

 Jesus sees all that is good within the human heart.  He saw the faith of the Canaanite woman.  He sees your faith. He sees my faith.  Jesus knows how hard we are trying our best to be faithful to Him and to serve Him.

 How wonderful is that?! We have such an awesome God!

He knows us better than we know ourselves.  He loves us more than we love ourselves.

 Hopefully, may we all get to the point in our lives, when we can say:   “We, not only believe - we know.” Amen.

 God bless…

Christ is in the Storm of Life With Us

Being a Christian in our society, in a very secular and even atheistic world, holding on to our faith - is hard – to say the least.  Like the disciples in the Gospel reading, it is like rowing a boat against a strong wind.  And so often - we are torn between our faith and our fears.

At times, we are like Simon Peter.  Our faith is strong, and it seems that we could walk on water.  At other times, our fear is stronger than our faith.  And it seems that we will surely sink.

Some days, we truly believe in Christ…. that He is real…. That He is with us…we believe that His love will finally conquer the world, and there will finally be peace… and therefore we are ready to give our lives for the sake of the Gospel…

But there are other days when the only thing that seems real is trouble. We are surrounded by struggles, aches and pains and sufferings… and we are afraid.  So, we give in to fears and doubts, thinking we have no choice but to rely solely on our own power and resources… because it seems God is silent and has forgotten about us.

Waves and wind – such a powerful metaphor for all those that cause fear and doubt in our daily lives... the stresses and responsibilities of our daily lives.

How often when a crisis comes in our life, we concentrate on the crisis instead of on God…. We take our eyes off of God.

When troubles come our way - often - we forget that God is still with us.  We feel and so we think God has abandoned us.  But our faith tells us that God is always with us. We cannot always rely on our feelings.  The truth is that God is with us always, whether or not we feel His presence…no matter what our feelings tell us.

Faith life – Christian life is such a paradox in the sense that true believers in God are born in hard times.  Great faith grows in times of doubt and despair.

In the hardest times, faith reaches its greatest height.  It is strange but true.  Until we have known great despair, we cannot know great faith.  Great faith has always come out of situations of despair.

But – it does not mean that we pray or look for misery or desolation or trials - so that we will grow in faith.  Life will bring them to us and they will transform us.

The saints - down through the centuries – gave us wonderful examples of faith even in the midst of despair and darkness. 

Cardinal Basil Hume wrote of St Thérèse’s of Lisieux – the Little Flower – “Even when she experienced nothing but absence, emptiness, darkness, she held on to the assurance of being loved and carried in Jesus’ arms….that is trust, clinging to God when everything in our experience would seem to contradict His very existence, or at least His love for us.”

The Lord knows that we are not saints, not yet anyway.  He knows that we are weak.  He accepted Peter with his failures and weaknesses, and turned him into the Rock of the Church.  The Lord takes us as we are and He walks with us on the water…in the storms of life.

God did not say that there will be no storms in our lives but He promised that He will be with us in our storms…  and so when a storm hits, we are asked to take the hand of Jesus and let him lift us to safety… so to speak. Peter gave us a good example - He cried out to Jesus, and he re-focused.  He said: “Jesus – save me! Jesus – save me! What saved Peter when he was sinking? - He reached out in faith.  And Christ saved him.

Jesus challenges us to keep our eyes on Him, to depend on Him, to believe in Him no matter what is going on in our daily lives.

Christ is in the storm of life with us.  Jesus is peace in the midst of the storm. Of course, this is much easier said than done…but our faith tells us to not give up… because the alternative is despair – which consumed Judas and we do not want to go there.   So - keep trying, keep trusting… sinking in life begins when we take our eyes off of God… when we forget and do not trust in the love and grace and mercy of God.

God only asks us to have the courage to put our faith in Him…and to not be afraid.”  It is a matter of the will, a matter of choice.  We have our free will.  We have to decide… whether or not to make that leap of faith in God.

In the Gospel reading, Peter began to sink when he concentrated too much on the threat of the wind and the waves instead of focusing on the presence of Jesus right there in front of him.

May the Lord increase our little faith so that in all the storms of life we shall have our eyes and our trust constantly fixed on Jesus and his power and not on the crisis, not on ourselves and not on our weaknesses.

With all the news of Maui fires, of hard times many people are going through, violence, all kinds of sickness, natural disasters, etc., everyone of us here has crisis or storms in our lives in one form or another.  Some of us here may be in the midst of a storm and on the verge of sinking in fear, into despair and hopelessness.

We have three choices – either to look at the crisis, or to look at our weakness, or to look at Jesus.

Jesus gave us an example in the Gospel of how we can prepare for and manage in the midst of the storms or chaos of life.

 We heard in the Gospel – Jesus went up on the mountain by himself to pray.

We need to be people who go alone by ourselves to be alone with the Lord every day of our lives in order to have peace even in the midst of crisis.

Yes -We are all busy to some extent or another.  People and responsibilities are pulling us a thousand ways!

That is why the busier we get, the more reason we must spend quality times with the Lord every day.

If coming to Sunday Mass is the only time you pray during the week – that is not good! You and I have to be alone with the Lord – our God - every day… even for a few minutes.  

 This is the most necessary thing in our lives, that we be still in the presence of God every day – so that we can continue to have peace even in the midst of the conflicts of life, even in the midst of weaknesses and darkness.

In prayer, we will be given the wisdom and the courage and the peace and we will know what to do, when to do it and how to do it, to whom to do it.

If we continue to focus and re-focus our eyes on God… If we keep our eyes on the Lord, the Good News is - we, too, can walk on water.

Jesus Be My Everything

Admittedly, at times - we can get so bogged down by struggles in this world and therefore we need to be reminded that this troubled world is not our final destiny.  The Gospel story of the Transfiguration of Christ gives us a glimpse that there is another world that is just as real as this world we live in….

As we heard in the Gospel: “Moses and Elijah appeared to them, conversing with Jesus.”  Moses and Elijah lived and departed from earthly life centuries before and there they were living and conversing with Jesus…sharing in His glory… giving us a glimpse of the eternal dimension… that there is life after death… with transfigured or resurrected body.

The transfiguration experience boosted the faith of Jesus’ apostles. An occasional glimpse of the other world can bring meaning and strength and hope to this present world.

 How about us - can we somehow expect a Transfiguration-like experience, to prepare us – to encourage us to carry our crosses daily in our lives to follow Jesus?  to boost our faith?... to strengthen us and give us hope?

 The answer is, yes; that is what Jesus is preparing for us at this very Mass we are celebrating. Our experience might be greatly different from what Peter, James or John experienced.  There will not be any blinding light nor voice speaking from the clouds; but, our experience can certainly be just as powerful…

 Of course, that will not happen by some kind of magic.  Our own transfiguration experience will depend on how much faith we bring to the experience… meaning, depending on if our hearts are open.  The Catechism of the Catholic Church teaches that the efficacy of the sacrament – meaning - the grace we receive in the sacraments – like the Eucharist - depends on our disposition – depending on our openness, our willingness to cooperate with the grace of God.

 There is a common phrase – “You get out of it what you put into it.”  

Those who get bored during the Mass….Those who say that they get nothing out of the Mass…. They should ask themselves this question… What are they bringing into this celebration?  What kind of attitude do they have coming into Mass?  How much thought and how much preparation did they have or how did they prepare themselves for the Eucharistic celebration? Again, “you get out of Mass what you put into it.”

In just a few minutes, we will offer to God the bread and wine – along with our offerings of ourselves, our struggles, our hopes, our dreams – through Christ, with Christ and in Christ – WHO makes our offerings acceptable to God, our Father.

 At the consecration, the Holy Spirit will change our gifts - into the Body and Blood of Jesus.  Then - at Communion, when we receive the Body and Blood of Christ - Jesus will fill us with his glorious presence.  In that moment we, ourselves, can be transfigured, if you will.  We become what we partake; we become what we eat – We become the Body of Christ… As St. Teresa of Avila said:  Christ has no body now on earth but yours. Yours are His eyes, yours are His hands and yours are His feet.

That is why at the end of the Mass, we are sent – in the peace of Christ – to be other Christs in the world. …to be the living witnesses and sacraments of God’s love, grace and mercy…

Peter wanted to stay or extend the stay up in the mountain because “it is good to be here.”  The same thing with us, after our Eucharistic celebration - we need to go down into the valley, so to speak, of our day-to-day existence – into the ordinariness of our lives - because the Mass must be lived. 

Meaning - Our faith must be expressed in action, in living out the Gospel values… – proclaiming and sharing the message of salvation in Jesus Christ… by the way we live.

As St. Augustine puts it in one of his sermons on the Transfiguration, Elijah and Moses are there as “servants and ministers. Meaning - they are vessels: Christ is the fountain.” So, on the Feast of the Transfiguration, it is time for us to examine the focus of our mission as Church. Do we, as God’s church, also point to Christ without any ambiguity in all that we do and say?

Meaning - Think of all that we do: our worship, fellowship, Bible studies, feeding the homeless, advocacy for social justice, and all of our good works towards our neighbors and outreach, etc. The question, in light of the Transfiguration, is this: Do all the works - everything that we do - point clearly and plainly to Jesus Christ, the Son of God in whom the hopes of the world and the longings of every human heart are brought to peace beyond understanding? If not, then something must change.

From the Catechism of the Catholic Church – the Eucharist is the source and summit of our Christian life… meaning - all the other sacraments, and indeed all ecclesiastical ministries and works of the apostolate, of the Church - are bound up with the Eucharist and are oriented toward it.

 The Eucharist is all about Christ – His presence in us, among us, with us.

 For us Christians, “Life is about Jesus Christ. Anything and everything that matters flows from Him and returns to Him.”

This is the fundamental message of Christianity. It is exemplified in today’s feast: The Transfiguration of the Lord.

To put more perspective, Moses was the great Law Giver. Elijah was the greatest of the prophets. Meaning – Jesus is the fulfillment of everything foretold in the Old Testament.

Jesus is the center of history. Jesus is the center of the universe. Everything that matters flows from Jesus and points to Him. Jesus is the one who fulfills God’s plan for mankind.

So, we have to listen to Jesus because we also have a role in God’s plan for mankind. That meeting with Moses and Elijah had transcended time. Moses  lived about six hundred years before Elijah, and Elijah lived about eight hundred years before the birth of the Lord.

 But on that mountain of the Transfiguration, they were united in time. It was as though all that Moses gave, all that Elijah prophesied, was happening in the eternal now of the Word Become Flesh, Jesus. We are part of that Eternal Now.

From the clouds, they heard: “This is my Beloved Son. Listen to Him.” Those words are directed to us as well as to Peter, James and John.

Each of us has a role to play in God’s Plan for mankind. The late great pope, Pope Benedict XVI said: “The world offers you comfort, but you were not made for comfort, you were made for greatness.” We were created for greatness, to share in the Triumph of the Kingdom of God.

 How? How do we share in the Triumph of the Kingdom of God? We do this by living our lives in such a way that we reflect the presence of God in that unique way that we were created to do… that people whose lives we touch - experience the love, grace and mercy of God through us. Each of us can uniquely provide the world with an image of God the world never saw before and the world will never see again. We can and must do this. That is why we need to be united to God in every aspect of our lives and at every moment of our lives.

Again, as I have said at the beginning, at times - we get so bogged down by struggles and temptations in this world and we lose perspective of what life is all about and what really matters, therefore, we do not and cannot hear the voice of God anymore with all the worldly noises – and so - we need to get away from the world, so to speak – spend more time in prayer every day – to listen to the voice of God… even for a few minutes each day…

Yes - so many people are now living in seemingly hopeless desperate situations… and we are called to trust in God even without knowing how God is going to care for us, even though we have no idea how God could possibly help us.  But - as the Pope said:  Only in Christ can humanity find redemption and hope.

So, let us love Jesus with all our hearts, with all our mind and with all our might and let Jesus love us.

And so we pray – in the words of a popular song – please repeat after me: “Jesus, Be My Everything!”  AMEN.

May You Rest in the Peace of Christ

So - How are you feeling?  If you say or think you are tired, or sleepy - you are not alone.  Studies confirmed the fact that people are not getting enough rest, not enough sleep, not enough relaxation to stay healthy.  The stress of life is wearing us out, body and soul.  No wonder, with all due respect, at times, we come to Mass, our job, or school, without much energy and enthusiasm and eagerness.  It is not that we are bad or lazy.  It is just that we are just plain tired.

How come?  For example - We carry our cell phones - everywhere we go - all the time; we want to multi task, talking to relatives and friends or clients while working, even while driving.  We drink more caffeine and energy drinks so we can stay awake longer to catch up on the pressing list of things to do. 

And what is worst - This constant running around, multi-tasking is exhausting not only our bodies, but also our souls.  Yes - We need a nap, or a vacation, certainly.  But even more, we need a word of grace from God for our weary souls to re-assure us.  Because, if we are not careful, all this running around causes us to neglect our inner lives, distracting us from the nourishment and care of our souls.  And as a result, even a good nap or even a good long vacation does not really quite heal us.

In fact - It is funny and quite ironic – and you probably can relate to this- people come back from vacation more tired than they were before they went on vacation… right?

Our readings today have a message and good news for those who are not only physically tired but especially for the weary, troubled…withered souls… pretty much - all of us.

Jesus offers us the rest we need to refresh our souls… “Come to me, all you who are heavy laden, weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”  The good news is: Jesus knows, and cares, about our weariness.  We are not alone.

When you are worn out, what you do not want to hear is someone who dismiss or make it sound like what you are feeling is not important. 

Jesus does not make us feel our weariness is less important.  He invites us to find rest in Him.  He does not accuse or blame us.  Jesus simply offers us himself, like a strong shoulder, to lean against.  He gives us permission to admit the truth--we are tired and feeling burdened. 

We have been working and living too hard, too long.  And so consequently, we have exhausted our inner lives by neglecting our spiritual life, by neglecting the primary relationships that give us peace and joy… which are our relationships with God and with one another.

 St Augustine said: "You have made us for yourself, O Lord, and our hearts are restless until they rest in you."

That is why Jesus continues to invite us: “Come to me, and I will give you rest.”  It is what we all need, all of us.  We need to set aside our burdens and worries so we can sit at the feet of Christ, in the presence of a wise and loving God, and to catch our breath again… to give us opportunity to examine / re-examine our way of life and see if some of that weariness is of our own making.That is why it is very important to pray everyday… to commune with God every day. The busier we become, the more challenges we face, the more time we have to spend in prayer – every day - talking and listening to God… we need to step away from the busyness of life, to re-focus our lives on what really matters in life… to let Jesus enter deeper into our lives and to put our trust in God … who is our hope not just for the future but God is our hope for the present… Only in Christ can we find hope.

Jesus said: “My yoke is easy, my burden is light”. The image of the yoke is an image familiar to Jesus’ first century audience. A yoke allows a person or an animal to carry a huge amount of weight by distributing the weight evenly on both shoulders. 

 In today’s Gospel, Jesus speaks to those “who labor and are burdened”.  As a background and to put things in perspective – to better understand why Jesus said what He said: Actually, Jesus is referring to the fact that the scribes and Pharisees had so distorted the Law of Moses that the practice of the Jewish faith had become a burden that was too difficult to carry and the religious leaders did nothing to ease the weighty burden.  (Matthew 23:4).

The religious leaders had developed many customs, false doctrines and religious practices which Jesus condemned – for example, their Sabbath Law… which they used against Jesus because Jesus healed on a Sabbath.

And so, Jesus – using the image of the yoke - was actually offering to relieve the heavy burden of the system of works that the Pharisees in His time laid on the backs of the people. And so, Jesus invites them to carry the light and easy yoke that Jesus will give them. In other words, in contrast, Jesus’ New Law of love, grace and mercy is actually liberating, freeing, light, and easy.

But you might think – Jesus’ new commandment of love – especially loving your enemy; especially His call to moral perfection and His many teachings are also not that easy to follow and can even be overwhelming.

But we have to trust that since Jesus Himself says that “my yoke is easy, and my burden light,” then we can be certain that they are…light and easy.

Why and how we can say that? - Jesus gives us His Spirit; Jesus gives us the means by which we can fulfill His commandment. When we find some moral obligation to be difficult or even overwhelming, we can rely upon the grace that God will give us to fulfill His command.

God not only calls us to the heights of holiness, He also provides us with the grace to fulfill His commandment.

To better understand – you see – instead of imagining of an animal with a yoke carrying a heavy burden all by himself – imagine this better image of a yoke - two animals side by side with a yoke over their shoulders – and they are yoked together - meaning – Jesus Himself is yoked with us – Jesus is with us - Jesus promised to shoulder our burdens with us – to carry the yoke with us, so that we in turn - could also bear the burdens of others.

Jesus said that His yoke is easy… meaning - Having Jesus at the center of our lives - as we discern the will of God for us and how to live our lives, with Christ in our life – we need to remember this: More work, more grace. In other words: The will of God will not take us where the grace of God cannot sustain us.

In other words, God’s grace is always enough for us whatever circumstances we might find ourselves in.

 On the other hand - If you feel you are so blessed… Remember: Blessings come with a mission:  in other words: if you get more grace, expect more work…much has been given to you, much is expected of you. So, put together - More work, more grace. More grace, more work. All by the grace of God… which is always enough for us.

Jesus invites all those who find life burdensome to come to him for rest.  Jesus did not promise to do away with our burdens but rather to help us carry them.

Jesus wants us to learn - with the gifts of the Holy Spirit – to have a wiser way to go about our daily activities - a wiser way to live… and so face the burdens and challenges of life - wisely.  The rest that Jesus promises is actually a joyful refreshment in the midst of the burdens of life… refreshing our soul… with peace beyond understanding.

So, my brothers and sisters in Christ- as we heard in our first reading: Rejoice heartily, rejoice heartily all you people of the Lord, Shout for joy, for our Savior has come… who is inviting us: “Come to me, all you who are heavy laden, weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”  Trust me.

And so, on that note and in that sense, I say to you my brothers and sisters: “May you all rest in peace – May you all rest in the peace of Christ, on earth as it is in heaven.”

Amen.

God bless…

Preparing for Our Own Death- Funeral Homily

Yesterday, I was also at another funeral.  The man died unexpectedly. The family – which is a very closely-knit family - had gatherings and parties – celebrations - two weekends in a row right before he passed away… In fact, I saw a video of him singing and dancing with his lovely wife…. Having a wonderful lovely time. So – his death brought total shock.  The family is heart-broken to say the least. My understanding is that Brother Rey – we can say – also died quite unexpectedly – so soon. In the Scriptures, our Lord warned us to stay awake for we do not know when He will be coming for us. I know – and I acknowledge - in my own life - the few times I could have died - came as a surprise to me. In fact, I was in a car accident about two weeks ago. 

 Death is not something people like to talk about – especially the youth… who look forward to a bright future. That is great but it is also healthy to talk about death in moments like this as a reality check.

 It was said: “Not everyone is given the chance to grow old. So, appreciate and thank God for every single day of your life.”

 Why do we fear talking about death? I think it is because it reminds us of our own death. And this reminder, far from being a negative experience, has been a great source of conversion of people’s hearts and minds throughout the centuries.  There's an old saying, "Remember death." If only we meditated on, prayed about, and accepted the fact of the reality of our own death how different our lives might be!  Death can be a great source or motivation for us to "get our act together."

… for us to learn to appreciate the greatness of life, and see things in a whole new perspective… greater and deeper awareness of what really matters in life… relationship with God and with one another…

 We need to examine the way we worry and struggle and relate to one another.

 We need to examine why are we bearing grudges against one another... Why are we trying so hard to outdo one another, manipulate one another, control one another, even humiliate one another?... Why are we being so judgmental toward one another?

 At a family reunion, the discussion turned to the subject of "Living each day as though it were your last." When it was the grandmother's turn to speak, she said, "I think it's a fine idea to live each day as though it were your last.”

 She continued: “But I've always tried to live by one idea that is slightly different. It is this: 'Treat all people – especially your family – treat all people you meet each day as though it were their last day.' Wow!

 Those people who died suddenly – unexpectedly – if they could speak, they would tell us to live in the now. – meaning that it is indeed all the time we have – there is only today.  We have no guarantees beyond this day in which we are living.

 Therefore, the things we would do, need to be done today, if at all possible.

 The gifts that we would give need to be given today, if at all possible.

 The words of appreciation that we would speak, need to be spoken today, if at all possible.

 That compassion that we feel - needs to be shown today, if at all possible.

 The strained or broken relationships – conflicts among family members and friends – grudges and hatred and contempt - that need to be reconciled, that need to be healed - need to be worked on starting today, if at all possible.

 As one first century monk said: “Repent one day before your death.”  Since we do not know when that will be, it is therefore wise to repent – to turn our hearts to God - every day.

 If you have any bad or unhealthy habits or sinful lifestyle that you need to stop or avoid, well, you know what you need to do today.

 Our lives are very fragile, aren’t they?  Tomorrow may never come. Life is unpredictable. Our lives are like a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. We have no guarantees beyond this day in which we are living.

 My brothers and sisters in Christ, life is too unpredictable and too brief to live it without God at the center of our lives. The truth of the matter is that all of us are just one heartbeat away from eternity.

 So - Don’t put off this decision: Decide today to give your life to Jesus… who is the Way, the Truth and the Life…Jesus is the answer to all of life’s questions… Jesus is the key to all of life’s struggles.

 He is the Resurrection, Who exchanged His life for yours, and who, in the next life, will greet you -- if you receive Him into your life in this life.

 Scripture says: “You also must be prepared, for at an hour you do not expect, the Son of Man will come.”

 In the words of St. Pope John XXIII: “If we are deeply rooted in our faith in Christ, if we live a true Christian life, then any day is a good day to die.…” because our true home is in heaven. Unfortunately, people tend to forget this or ignore this: We are just pilgrims, travelers in this earthly life – just passing through in this life.

 If we live in Christ, if we die in Christ, we will rise in Christ.

 For a Christian, dying is the most sacred event of life. Our dying is not simply a ‘systems failure’. The medical staff may say’ ‘He didn’t make it’ but – at death - God in fact is making us his own. God hurries towards us like the father who runs toward his prodigal son and catches him up in a loving hug (Luke 15:20). God comes to us at our death as a bridegroom comes for his bride, and guides us through ‘the dark valley’ of death (Psalm 23:4)

 At death, as we heard in the Scriptures, Jesus fulfils his promise: ‘I will come again and will take you to myself, so that where I am, you also may be. (John 14:3). (Sacred Space)

 Having Jesus in your daily life is not going to cause you to miss out on the fun and good things of life.

Jesus is not a kill joy. The truth is – with Jesus in your life, you will enjoy fullness of life… peace beyond understanding, lasting joy and happiness - if you live your life according to God’s will.

 So – build your life, your career, your family – on Christ… Have Jesus as the center of your life… as the center of your family life.

 As a spiritual exercise, a suggestion – When you find the time and the courage:  Write your own obituary…. choose a date of death…

…Summarize in a few short paragraphs, who you were and what you did before you died…

 For example: Brother Rey’s Obituary states (just excerpt):

“… He leaves behind a legacy of loving, cheerful, and cherished memories that will forever remain etched in our hearts…”

“… We remember that bright light that encompassed his being each time he walked into a room…” – beautiful!

 So - What do you think people will remember about you or what will people say – especially your family – when they give the Eulogy - when the time comes – which will surely come.

 Most importantly – If God is looking at you right now as you see Him – Is He smiling at you or is He shaking His head. And - when you die - what will God say to you? 

God bless…

“Peace Be With You"

Pope Francis has announced that the Church will celebrate a Jubilee Year in 2025, with the theme of “Pilgrims of Hope”.

You know my last name is Peregrino which literally means pilgrim meaning a person who travels to a holy place. So, we are actually all Peregrino’s journeying on our travel towards heaven, our true home.

Every now and then - this question is asked; "Will the Catholic Church continue to survive?" 
We might as well ask ourselves that same question and, of course, the answer is and always will be; YES! The Church will survive without any doubt. 

If we examine the first reading and the Gospel today, the same question could have been asked.  We find the apostles and others behind locked doors in the upper room out of fear.  They were afraid that if they ventured out they might be arrested and suffer the same fate of Jesus. 

Would this small group of frightened followers of Jesus survive?  From a worldly point of view, the answer would be a resounding NO.  Yet we know what happened.  The Holy Spirit came upon those men and women who made up the Church and with His sevenfold gifts they were able to go out and spread the Gospel to the four corners of the world, so to speak.

Will the Church continue to survive?  Of course, it will!  It will survive and prosper because it is the Church of Jesus.  It will survive because He promised to be with us always.  The Catholic Church will survive because the Holy Spirit continues to dwell with us and to guide us today just as surely as on that day in the upper room when He came upon Mary and the apostles in the form of tongues of fire. 

You will notice that in every single Catholic Church you will find a confessional, a place for the Sacrament of Reconciliation.

For those of you who have not gone to confession in a while, do you still remember what it is? When was the last time you went to Confession. There is a confessional; there is a Sacrament of Reconciliation because we are a Church of sinners, who seek the mercy and forgiveness of God.  I do not know about you, but for me personally, that is such a great consolation for me because I am a sinner and I seek the mercy and forgiveness of a loving and merciful God. 

To know that Jesus gave the Keys of the Kingdom to His Church to forgive our sins – again, personally, is such a great comfort for me.  Jesus calls us in our sinfulness to reform our lives and live by the Gospel message and He has given us - the Church with all the Sacraments - to guide us and assist us in our journey of life towards heaven, our true home.

The Catholic Church will survive… as the Body of Christ.

Now – on a personal level - The question is – Are we – personally – as individuals – will we be able to persevere in faith and survive – even in the midst of the trials and temptations in this life?

In our Gospel reading today, we see the apostles at a time when they were very much like you and me. They were behind locked doors because they feared the Jews.  In a very real sense, they were in prison so to speak. The doors were locked but they were locked from the inside – meaning – they were behind locked doors simply because they did not have the courage and strength to go out and face up to life.

Aren’t we like that sometimes – imprisoned by fear, intimidated by life? Often times – it is not so much fear of harm from our enemy - but – often times it is just a haunting uneasiness, restlessness – a recurring anxiety that something bad is waiting to happen. A man fears for his job. A mother fears for the future of her children. A young person fears the rejection of his peers. A woman fears for her health. A father with heavy responsibilities fears for his financial stability.

Thus, we find ourselves virtual prisoners, held hostage by our own fears. And it is not all imagination because the truth is – life can really be a dangerous and difficult journey…. We live in such a very secular and even atheistic society and we often hear or see violence and sufferings.

The apostles ran from life and barricaded themselves behind closed doors… not so much because of the danger that surrounded them but the storm that was raging within them – because they felt themselves to be utterly incapable of coping with the circumstances of life… Aren’t we like that more often than not?

Here’s the Good News:  After His Resurrection - Even though the doors were locked because the apostles were gathered in fear - - Jesus walked in –– and addressed the apostles’ deepest and most desperate need…

First of all – Jesus greeted the apostles with: “Peace be with you.”  Jesus did not blame them for abandoning him but instead - He said “Peace be with you” .... because the apostles needed to hear those words of forgiveness for themselves for their own failures as disciples….  So that – in turn – having experienced the mercy and forgiveness of God - they can announce the Good News of God’s mercy – the Good News of the forgiveness of sins – so that forgiveness will flow through them - to others – to the world.

Jesus turned their attention from themselves to others… Now, they can love even their enemies…  calling them to share in His work of redemption …. and we – my brothers and sisters in Christ – the People of God – the Church - we are all called to share in the mission of Christ by virtue of our baptism IN Christ.  We already have everything we need by the power of the Holy Spirit to fulfill our mission.

What the apostles needed above and before anything else was peace, someone or something to calm the troubled waters within, a sea of tranquility at the center of life that no external storm could disturb.

And who among us does not recognize that same need in his or her own life? – The need for that inner peace regardless of what we are going through.

Again – life these days is no picnic – there are dangers that are very real, disappointments that are inevitable, responsibilities that are unrelenting, and admittedly – sad to say, some dreams that will never come true.

 And so how wonderful it would be if each of us possessed an inner peace to which we could turn – in good times and bad, and know that it would always be there. We all need – some serenity of soul to come to at night and go out from in the morning. 

 But how do we get it? Where is it found? The Good News, the Gospel tells us that Jesus breathed upon them and said: Receive the Holy Spirit… - simply speaking – meaning – “Receive the life-giving loving presence of God.”

We already received that same Holy Spirit at our baptism and confirmation.  God already dwells within us, so we can share in the very life of God and so it is now a matter of constant awareness of God’s presence in our lives and to continually walk with God, conversing with God everyday - not from the head but from the heart… from within.

All of us face all kinds of uncertainty which can cause anxiety and restlessness, and even distress… The Good news is - only in the presence of God – we can face uncertainty with perfect Peace… and even joy.

Jesus said: In this world, you have tribulation, but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.

Peace is a personal awareness and conviction of one’s ability to cope with whatever life may bring.  Peace is awareness of deep wells and reserves from beyond ourselves – so that our power is not so much in us but through us… allowing the Spirit of God to live in us and work through us in faith and trust in God.

St. Paul gave us his personal testimony to this effect in his letter to the Philippians: “I have learned to be content whatever circumstances may be…. I have strength for anything through Christ who strengthens me.”

We always have the nourishment of the Lord’s Word in Scriptures and in the Eucharist… to strengthen us.

Together with Mama Mary and the apostles – May we all continue to take comfort in the words of Jesus, "Peace be with you!  Receive the Holy Spirit.  Be not afraid, I am with you always until the end of the age.

Amen. 

God bless…

God’s Love, Our Love, A Mother’s Love

John’s Gospel – Chapters 14 to 16 including today’s Gospel, are known as Jesus’ “farewell discourses” after the Last Supper. Jesus prepares his followers for the time when he will be present among them in a new and different way, with the coming of the Holy Spirit.

 Jesus speaks about making his home in us, and about us “abiding” in him.  He talks about giving us a kind of peace which the world cannot give and which the world cannot take away – even in the midst of life’s struggles – with sufferings and fear of death all around us.

 Jesus tells us – in fact, commands us – to love one another.

 What we need to understand is that when Jesus spoke of love, it was not in terms of emotions.  For Christ, love is primarily a matter of the will, of the attitude and action.  There is no virtue in liking someone.  There is also no sin in not liking someone.  It is what we do with those feelings that results in sin or in virtue. 

 For example, it is not sinful to be angry… but the command is “Do not sin in your anger.”

 We can speak of our love for the poor. We can shed tears of compassion for the poor, for those who are suffering. But unless we are willing to put some time, effort, and money to help the people in need and suffering, all our talk about how bad we feel for other people really means nothing. 

 The important thing about love is not what we feel, not what we say, but what we do.  We show our love primarily by the things that we do. Love requires self-sacrifice. Love is self-giving… dying to self.

 The important thing is not about saying we are Christians – but the question is – are we living, are we being Christians? We have Marian devotions particularly during the month of May.  The question is – do we have Marian way of living – Life of total surrender and trust in God and love of Jesus.

 Jesus said that by our love for one another, people will know that we are His disciples.

 Anyone can say, “I will do good to that person, because I like him.” But - It takes strength of character to say, “I really do not like that person, but as a Christian, I will do good to him and wish him well anyway.”

 Again, for Christ, love is primarily a matter of attitude and action.  The attitude is: regardless of how I feel about a person, I will treat him as I want other people to treat me. And this is where we start to get real. 

 We may not be able to control how we feel, but we can control what we do. Of course – this is much easier said than done and therefore many people are quick to say and conclude that Jesus’ commandment of love – especially love of our enemies - is unrealistic. It is just nice church talk; but not in real life, it just won’t work.

 Of course, admittedly, on our own, if we rely just on our own effort, we are doomed for failure from the outset.

 With all due respect, unlike Buddha, Mohammed and other leaders of non-Christian religions, Jesus did not just leave his followers with teachings or values and concepts and principles to live by - Jesus left his disciples – us - with His abiding and intimate presence through the Holy Spirit.  Jesus said: “Behold – I am with you always until the end of the age…”

 Jesus said: “And I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Advocate to be with you always, the Spirit of truth.” – the Third Person of the Trinity.

 Jesus left us with a special connection to Himself through the gift of the Holy Spirit.  Jesus is Risen, He is alive - is still present among us, within us, around us.  We know Him through the Spirit of God deep within our hearts…

 No leader can teach his followers how to anticipate every possible event or crisis the future might bring.  So - it is NOT enough just to learn how the leaders met their challenges by reading history…

 Case in point, at the start of Covid19 pandemic in 2020 – everyone was at a loss – even government leaders, scientists and even doctors admitted that the medical school and previous experiences did not prepare them enough for the Covid pandemic crises.

 The Good News is - Jesus knew we would face different challenges in the 21st century – which are quite different from 2000 years ago or even 100 years ago or even 10 years ago or even a few days ago… So - the Church – us - We – need to rely on the guiding presence of the Holy Spirit.  

 How? By loving Jesus – by keeping our eyes focused on Jesus and keeping His commandments, by observing them, by being open to the promptings of the Holy Spirit…

 The first thing you should do each morning is what? PRAY. It is like plugging yourself into the wall to get your batteries charged for the day. Praying is much more important than doing your hair, that’s more important than anything else you do in the morning. What’s important is that we pray - that we enter into this intimacy with Jesus, that we enter into prayer that we might have the Spirit of Christ, that we might have life in Christ every day.

 They are necessary in order to activate so to speak the gifts of the Holy Spirit – like wisdom and understanding - poured unto us at baptism and confirmation in order for us to live in the presence of Jesus – Jesus is the answer to all of life’s questions… Jesus is the answer to all of life’s problems.. the key to peace beyond understanding even in the midst of problems, pains and sufferings …

 Jesus said: “Those who has seen me has seen the Father.” Jesus is the sacrament of the Father…similarly - those in whom the Holy Spirit lives most fully – those who are in communion with Christ – are the living sacraments of Jesus - people see Christ in them.

 They do not even need to speak of it… because when the beauty of Christ is reflected in us, it speaks more effectively than the most eloquent words.

 The simple point is – with the Holy Spirit as our Advocate and Helper and Guide - if we are one with Christ – if we have the mind and heart and attitude of Christ, the evidence of our union with Christ – of being Christians - is seen in our daily lives.

 St. Francis of Assissi said: Preach the Gospel at all times, if necessary, use words.

 With all the troubles, violence and sufferings in the world - more than ever, people really need now to experience the loving, gracious and merciful presence of God through us who claim to be Christians. So – my brothers and sisters in Christ - the question to us is this: Can people see Christ in us? Can people experience the loving, gracious, merciful presence of God through us – as individuals and as a community?

 On that note: In the Spirit of Celebrating Mothers’ Day:

From Jewish Proverbs: “God could not be everywhere, so He created mothers.”

Another proverb: “A mother understands what a child does not say.” Wow!

 St. Therese of Lisieux said that the loveliest masterpiece of the heart of God is the heart of a mother.

 All of these meaning - Mothers are the embodiment – Mothers are the living sacraments of God’s love.

 A mother’s love is unconditional. Our mothers love us whether we are beautiful or ugly, smart or dull, able-bodied or handicapped; our mothers love us whether we are a success or a failure in society, whether we are grateful or ungrateful.

All these qualities of a mother’s love are for us a foretaste of God’s tender and untiring love for us. And this is what we are celebrating… on Mothers’ Day.

 We are celebrating Mothers’ Day because through our mothers’ hands, God cares for us when we are in need; through our mothers’ mouths God speaks to us words of consolation when we are heartbroken; through our mother’s heart God pours out to us His unconditional love that never gives up on us.

 So, we acknowledge and appreciate all mothers and we say, “God bless you all mothers.”  We thank and praise God for you, mothers.

 But of course, we cannot and should not forget spiritual mothers because it is a fact that there are women who cannot literally or physically be mothers – because of one reason or another… but they are also so motherly in their own way.

And so I say to all of you: Happy Mothers’ Day! God bless…

“The Way to Heaven is Heaven”

Jesus said – “I am the Way, the Truth and the Life." Jesus is the way to God. He is the way to Heaven.  St. Teresa of Avila said it so beautifully: "All the way to Heaven is Heaven, because Jesus said, ‘I am the Way."  When Jesus says, "I am the Way" that means that we need to enter into a personal relationship with Christ Himself. He’s not just an example for how we live our life so we can enter Heaven. If we do that, if we just follow rules and regulations, we can easily become like the Pharisees.

The Pharisees took the commandments and they took all the revelation of God, and they said, "Ok, this is how I’m going to live my life."  They thought they achieved their salvation because they just followed the pattern laid out for them… the rules and regulations; the ten commandments became 613 commandments. 

Christians do not simply follow a set of rules or just believe in some doctrines. As the late Pope Benedict XVI said: Christianity is not just an intellectual pursuit; we follow a Person.  Non-Christian believers live by the teachings of their leader… like the Muslims, the Buddhists, with all due respect. They live their lives following the teachings of their leaders. But – we Christians – we live IN the Risen Christ… Christ lives and so we live…The Spirit of Christ is IN us by virtue of our baptism… We go to the Father through Christ, with Christ and in Christ.

Jesus said: I Am the Way, the Truth and the Life… Jesus is the answer to all of life’s questions. Jesus is the answer to all of life’s problems. That is why the Pope said: In these troubled times, only in Christ can humanity find hope. Since Jesus is fully God and fully man, He is the perfect mediator between God and man – perfect bridge between heaven and earth. It is in following Christ that we find our way. It is in believing in Christ that we discover truth. It is in accepting Christ in our life that we gain life… not just temporary life but eternal life.

 Jesus is not just a mystery to be solved – but Jesus is a Person, a Being to encounter – a loving presence to experience – that with Jesus, we already start experiencing Heaven inside of us.  Thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in Heaven.  The kingdom of heaven is at hand. You do not need to physically die to experience heaven. Especially in the Eucharistic celebration, the Body of Christ gives us a foretaste of heaven.

 Jesus said, "I am the Truth." We need to follow what is true.  We hear people talk about leaving the Catholic Church, or going to some other Church or religion, or that they go to a certain church because it makes them feel good, or that they are leaving the Catholic church because they are not being fed. 

 The question is: "What is true?" Don’t go for feelings, because feelings are deceptive. You might go to a church or a community and think, "Oh, this is great because everyone loves me and that’s so good." But, is it TRUE? You may join a cult and or a church and everyone may love you and it may feel good for you, or you feel good about it but - is what they teach - true?

 What’s TRUE, and what ISN'T TRUE??  Truth is truth - It’s not a matter of opinion.  Truth is truth whether we believe it or not; whether we understand or not and accept it or not.  Again, truth is truth.

Are you in search of Truth, or are you just in search of a good feeling or a feel-good relationship? Because, ultimately, the only thing that matters is what is true. Truth will always lead you to God… to true happiness, to true peace, true joy.  All truth leads to God, Who is the Source of all that is good… because God is true. 

Jesus said - "I am the Life."  During Easter Season we talk a lot about life – life after death, life before death, an abundant life.  Jesus said "I have come that you might have life, and have it to the full." 

Meaning – it does not matter whether you are young or old or even if you are in your senior years. The best is yet to come.  Just because you are advanced in age, it does not mean that life is over and that we are just waiting for our time to die and go to heaven. Yes, of course we need to find hope and joy in the life to come but we can still live life joyfully peacefully here.

To live in Christ is not only to live life to its fullest but also because of Christ, we can see beyond death.  (John 14:19) – “Because I live, you also will live.”

In his prologue to the Gospel, St. John says, “In Jesus was life, and His life was the light of all people.  The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not overcome it.”

If you want to be a person of life, the first thing you should do each morning is PRAY. It is like plugging yourself into the wall to get your batteries charged for the day. That’s much more important than doing your hair, that’s more important than anything else you do in the morning. What’s important is that we pray - that we enter into this intimacy with Jesus, that we enter into prayer that we might have LIFE in Christ every day.

There was a dialogue between a recent convert and an unbelieving friend:

The friend asked the convert: So you have been converted to Christ?

Yes… said the convert.

Then you must know a great deal about him.  Tell me: What country was Jesus born in?

I do not know… replied the convert.

What was his age when he died?

I do not know.

How many sermons did he preach?

I do not know.

The friend finally said: You certainly know very little for a man who claims to be converted to Christ!

The convert finally replied: You are right. I am ashamed at how little I know about Christ.  But this much I do know: Three years ago, I was a drunkard. I was in debt.  My family was falling to pieces.  My wife and children would dread my return home each evening.  They do not want to be in the same room as I am. But now I have given up drink; we are out of debt; ours is now a happy home.  All these Christ has done for me.  This much I know of him!

To really know Christ is to be transformed by what one knows… into Christ…

So, the challenge for us is to be people who know that Jesus is the Way, to be people who search for Truth and to be people who have Life in Christ. When that happens - This is the Promise of Jesus as mentioned in the Gospel. "I solemnly assure you, the one who has faith in Me will do the works that I do..."

..."And will do greater ones than these."

And with that we truly become the Body of Christ. When we receive communion, we become what we partake.  We become the living sacraments of Christ – the presence of Christ on earth… so that others also experience the loving gracious merciful presence of God through us.

We are called to be Christ to one another.

Many Catholics are afraid of the word evangelization.  To evangelize is simply this – you do not need a degree in theology.  To evangelize – to proclaim the Good News, you just need to tell your story – what difference Christ makes in your life.

To proclaim the Good News is like a beggar telling another beggar where to find food… We are all beggars of God’ love, grace and mercy … when you know where to find food, then you tell others where to find food; where to find the way to heaven, the truth about who and whose we are, and the life…. the meaning of life… what life is all about… how to live life to its fullest.

Let me close with this:  Father Glenn gave the homily this morning and I just want to close with this; he said it so beautifully as a summary:

 “Christianity is so much more superior to all other religions, with all due respect, however sublime and noble they maybe in themselves.  In our religion, in Christianity, our way of life is not a philosophy, or a system or a ritual. Our faith, our religion is an encounter with a person.  Why is Jesus the Way? Because He is the Truth, the perfect revelation of God given to us in human form, and because He is the Life, He shares with us the very life of God.

Finally, Jesus does not give us complicated doctrines to follow, doctrines capable of making us lose our way.  Simply, Jesus takes our hand and walks with us in our journey through life.  He gives us one very important commandment.  He says: “Love one another as I have loved you.” Nothing more. With that, who can get lost when Jesus is the Way, when Jesus is the focus of our lives, when the directions are so simple? There is only one guide in our life: Jesus, the Way. And there is only one map: LOVE. All the rest is secondary.

God bless.