聖安德肋宗徒慶節

今天在我們之中有很多人能夠從網絡中學習到一些知識，因為互聯網刊載的知識或資源非常廣闊而且很容易找到。但是你們是否知道網絡中的資料不可盡信，有些是不可靠而且不正確的?因此我們要很細心思考與斟酌來閱讀有 關的資料或資訊。

你們是否有參考過網上所刊登有關信仰課題？我們是否可以相信那些資料？從某種程度上來說，的確我們可以學到一些皮毛。然而，我們不可以掉以輕心，最好是查証資料的來源，仔細考慮資料的可靠度或是有爭議性的？所以我建議最好是向受過培訓的傳道員或合格老師學習。聖保祿宗徒在今天的讀經裡提到：“信德始於別人的講道，而道是始於耶穌訓話。”希望每位教友們小心翼翼地分辨資訊的可靠性﹔如有需要盡量尋求合格人選來輔助，因為他們所傳的道理是教會所教導的。

聖安德肋宗徒慶節

放去我們的過去或是以往的處事方法是不簡單的也不容易。畢竟有些事情在一些人來說是那麼投入或是駕輕就熟而突然間要他們更改方法或是開始嶄新的發展，當然是不容易而且困難重重。但是在現實中，確實有很多事情在改變。在過去的時光裡該項方法非常管用且有效，可是到了今時今日它已成了廢物。因此為了不失去良機或挫敗，我們一定要與時並進，勇於改變和創新。

 在今天的福音中，耶穌見到兩位漁夫的兄弟，一個是西滿，也稱為伯多祿和他的弟弟安德肋正在湖中撒網捕魚。耶穌對他們說，“跟隨我吧，我要使你們成為漁人的漁夫。他們立刻舍下漁網跟隨了祂。”今天耶穌也很可能在召喚你，放下你的漁網，改變一下生活方式，再往前走，跟隨祂。那麼你是否願意接受該邀請，從此讓耶穌輔助及做你生命的向導？

Friday of Week 30 Year 2

Is it okay to cure on a Sabbath day? The Sabbath day is supposed to be a day of rest and worship. But in the Gospel, Jesus seems to be not following the rules of the Sabbath day. Throughout Jesus' ministry, we see that Jesus does not choose a special place, occasion or time to help and to heal. Instead, as long as Jesus sees a need, He would do something about it regardless of whether it is a Sabbath day or not.

The lawyers and the Pharisees were those who faithfully observe the Sabbath law. However, by Jesus' action, He simply showed them that there’s an exception; that the law of the Sabbath can be broken, as long as there is a good and valid reason to break it. Jesus is showing the lawyers and the Pharisees that the observance of the Sabbath day should be superseded by a more important need, in this case, the need to heal the man sick with dropsy.

If you were in Jesus' situation, what would you do? Would you simply let the man suffer from his severe sickness even if you could actually do something to help him? Or would you heal the man just like Jesus did? May our faith in God be made more real, alive and dynamic, by living it with acts of love, mercy, compassion and kindness.

Saturday of Week 34 Year 2

I believe most of us would want to keep healthy, especially as we age. We spend a lot of time and effort to ensure that we eat healthily, we go for regular checkups to detect diseases early so that such diseases could be treated early to have a better chance at survival, and we do many other things which concern the health and well-being of our body. But how many of us spend time and effort to keep our soul healthy? Do we go for confession regularly, and build our relationship with God for the health and well-being of our soul?

In today's Gospel, Jesus warns us: "Watch yourselves, or your hearts will be coarsened with debauchery and drunkenness and the cares of life, and that day will be sprung on you suddenly, like a trap." If we are not vigilant; if we slacken in our spiritual health and allow sin to permeate in our soul and neglect to cleanse ourselves from sin by going for confession, we may find ourselves regretting for not taking care of our spiritual health. By then, it may be too late, and we may find ourselves away from God.

While it is good for us to be concerned for the health and well-being of our body, we should also not neglect to be concerned about the health and well-being of our soul, lest we find ourselves suffering physically and even spiritually. Let us remain vigilant and watch ourselves, so that when the time comes, we would be better prepared to meet the Lord.

Saturday of Week 33 Year 2

We sometimes here people saying words like: "you can't put a good person down" or "justice will prevail." Such sayings give us hope and encouragement that, no matter what, a wrong will eventually be made right, though not necessarily the way we expect, but it would be made right by God in His time and according to His plan. We do not know exactly when and how this will happen, so we can only leave it in the hands of the Lord instead of worrying or fretting about it.

In today's reading, we come across an example of how "you can't put a good person down" or "justice will prevail." In the reading, two prophets who have been a plague to the world, were finally killed by the beast that comes out of the Abyss. The people of the world were glad about it, since they thought that they have been finally gotten rid of the prophets. But God had other plans, and "after three-and-a-half days, God breathed life into them and they stood up, and everybody who saw it happen was terrified; then they heard a loud voice from heaven say to them, ‘Come up here’, and while their enemies were watching, they went up to heaven in a cloud." Indeed, "you can't put a good person down" or "justice will prevail", since the prophets could not be silenced or stopped, since God is with them.

What does this mean to us? As Christians, when it comes to doing what is right and just, are we willing to stick with it, knowing that eventually, "you can't put a good person down" or "justice will prevail?" We may face troubles or persecution, or even put to death, but we should not be worried or concerned, and continue doing what is right and just, since what we are doing is not for our own gratification or glory, but for the glory of God.

Saturday of Week 32 Year 2

Among the many tasks that the church needs to do, the one which is paramount is to go forth and preach the Good News. This means that the church is continuously on mission to bring the Good News to all. It also means that, at times, the church needs to send persons to places further away, or even far away, to bring the Good News to others. Thus, to enable the church to fulfil its duty and task in preaching the Good News with less delay or interruptions, it is necessary that the faithful support the mission of the church, especially in funds contributed and other supporting roles, so that those doing mission could focus on their duty.

Today's reading reminds us that "It is our duty to welcome missionaries and contribute our share to their work." This means that we not only need to encourage and support them, we also need to see to their upkeep and for other works of charity they may endeavour. As we know, doing God's work involves expenses, as nothing is free, and the more we are willing to contribute to missionary efforts, the more people can be sent to reach out to others, especially in areas where some of us may not be able to go ourselves.

The question we need to ask ourselves is this: are we contributing willingly, fairly and generously for the growth of the church and for its missionary efforts? Sometimes the little extra we offer could go a long way towards helping the church to continue in its efforts in bringing the Good News to all. May we be willing to give generously, just as God has been generous to us in many ways.

Saturday of Week 31 Year 2

It is a reality in life that we need money to survive, especially in the modern world we live in. Few things in life are free, and to ensure a decent existence, we need to have some money with us. But needing to have some money does not mean we end up focusing only on money, at the risk or expense of losing our relationship with God. The question we need to ask is this: do we use money or do we serve money?

One good example of how one should use money and not serve money is St. Paul. In today's reading, St. Paul tells us: "I have learnt to manage on whatever I have, I know how to be poor and I know how to be rich too. I have been through my initiation and now I am ready for anything anywhere: full stomach or empty stomach, poverty or plenty. There is nothing I cannot master with the help of the One who gives me strength."

What about us? Are we learning to be like St. Paul and use money for the glory of God? Or have we allowed ourselves to become enslaved by money and serve money? May we come to realise our spiritual situation and what sort of relationship we have with God, and do something while we have the time and opportunity to do so.

Saturday of Week 30 Year 2

A dilemma is a situation in which a difficult choice has to be made between two or more alternatives, especially ones that are equally undesirable. Usually, when one is faced with a dilemma, one would try to choose the option which is less difficult to accept compared to the other choices.

In today's reading, St. Paul spoke of a dilemma. But St. Paul's dilemma was of a different kind, where there were two options or possibilities and both of which were good for him. St. Paul's dilemma was either remaining alive so that he would able to continue guide and strengthen the community, while remaining in Christ; or facing death so that he would be forever with Christ. Though St. Paul would have wanted to be forever with Christ, he also realised that to stay alive on this earth would be better for the sake of the community. So, St. Paul chose to survive and stay, and continue to serve for the good of community and glorify God.

What about us? If we were to face a "happy" dilemma like St. Paul, would we be willing to set aside our personal desire or personal interests to be forever with Christ, and continue to guide the community entrusted to us, for the good of the community? May we continue to humbly walk in God's ways, and help others to do the same.

Saturday of Week 29 Year 2

It is easy and tempting for some of us to get carried away with new teaching by certain church leaders. Such church leaders may have heard such teaching from the internet, or they may have been influenced by their friends or colleagues. But what we need to watch out for is whether such teaching is for the benefit of those who spread such teaching, and not for the glory of God. That is why we need to discern what we hear, remain true to the truth, and continue to grow in love as we grow to become more like Christ, and not for our own glory or benefit.

In today's reading, we are reminded: "Then we shall not be children any longer, or tossed one way and another and carried along by every wind of doctrine, at the mercy of all the tricks men play and their cleverness in practising deceit. If we live by the truth and in love, we shall grow in all ways into Christ, who is the head by whom the whole body is fitted and joined together, every joint adding its own strength, for each separate part to work according to its function. So the body grows until it has built itself up, in love."

The reading reminds us that it is through living by the truth and love that we shall grow in all ways into Christ. The reading also cautions us not to be so easily tossed one way and another and carried along by every wind of doctrine, at the mercy of all the tricks men play and their cleverness in practising deceit. What this means is we should take care to follow the ways of Christ, by making every effort to live by the truth and in love. May we be prudent and walk in Christ's ways, glorifying Him in all we do.

Saturday of Week 28 Year 2

Some of us can become quite animated and agitated when we discuss about a hot present issue such as what is happening in politics and the situation we are facing in the economy. We can spend lots of time trying to prove our point, or to comment with gusto on such matters which affect us. But when it comes to Jesus, do we have the same enthusiasm and zeal to share about Jesus and the Gospel to others, more so especially since Jesus is our saviour, our Lord and God? Do we acknowledge with pride and conviction Jesus' presence in our lives before others? Do we acknowledge the difference that our Lord Jesus has made in our lives? Or have we become shy or fearful to mention about Jesus, even though He is not shy or fearful towards us?

In today's Gospel, Jesus reminds us: "I tell you, if anyone openly declares himself for me in the presence of men, the Son of Man will declare himself for him in the presence of the angels. But the man who disowns me in the presence of men will be disowned in the presence of God’s angels." Are we enthusiastic and joyful in declaring Jesus in the presence of men? May we not falter in sharing the Good News, and while doing so, give God the glory.

St. John Vianney - Memorial 聖若翰維雅納節日

我們常常希望我們的事情完成盡快。然而，作為基督的證人不能這麼快做到。如果我們想成為耶穌有效的證人，我們需要有3個重要的特徵：熱情，耐心和毅力。

今天，我們慶祝聖若翰維雅納的節日。聖若翰維雅納是本堂神父的主保。他用熱情，耐心和毅力關心天主的子民，讓亞爾斯村莊所有的人轉換從惡習到美德。所以，他是一個例子我們應該模仿。

各位教友，我們應該為我們的神父們祈禱，以便他們更熱中他們的聖職，讓他們更熱情履行他們的使命。我們也應該為自己祈禱，我們會更加努力見證基督的福音跟其他的人。願耶穌的聖心激勵我們效法他的榜樣。

We often want things to be done quickly. However, when it comes to being witnesses of Christ, it is often not possible to rush things. If we want to be an effective witness of Jesus, we need to have three important characteristics: passion, patience and perseverance.

Today we celebrate the memorial of St. John Vianney. St. John Vianney is the patron of parish priests. With passion, patience and perseverance, he showed great care and concern for God’s people, especially in the village of Ars, gradually converting the entire village from vices to virtue. Therefore, he is a good example for all of us to follow and imitate.

Let us pray for our priests, that they will continue to be faithful to their vocation, and enthusiastic in carrying out their mission. We also pray for ourselves, that we will make even more effort to be witnesses of Christ’s Good News to others. May the Sacred Heart of Jesus inspire us to imitate His example.

Saturday of Week 27 Year 2

One reality in modern society is that, no matter where we go, we would encounter laws and regulations. Such laws need to be observed, for the good of all, otherwise there would be chaos. Such laws are supposed to protect those who follow what is stipulated and also to deter wrong-doing. Thus, the law is like our guardian and it is expressed in the form of law-enforcement officers, and in some cases, the courts may come into the picture.

In today's reading, St. Paul said that the Law was the guardian of the people until Jesus Christ came along and then they could be justified by faith. The Law was there for the people to keep to it and follow it. Yet the problem here is that, by just keeping to the precepts of the Law, people could be doing so without any faith and only out of fear, instead of out of love and out of a desire to grow closer to God. With Jesus, we are justified by faith and are no longer under the law as our guardian, but we become sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus.

The question is: are we still keeping the law out of fear and just to get ourselves out of trouble; or have we grown in faith in Jesus, and keep the law out of love? Are we keeping the law only for the sake of keeping it to protect ourselves from punishment, or have we learnt to let Jesus be our guiding "law," so that we would become more and more like Him? May we learn to follow the law of love, letting Jesus be our help an guide.

Saturday of Week 26 Year 2

How many of us still have a sense of politeness, courtesy and especially humility? Humility is the quality of having a modest or low view of one's importance, but how many of us are able to maintain such humility, especially when it seems as if more and more people are forgetting their humble beginnings, as they become more affluent, or are supposingly having higher education, or they think they have better standing in society?

Today's reading tells us of Job's humility. The reading tells us: "This was the answer Job gave to the Lord: I know that you are all-powerful what you conceive, you can perform. I am the man who obscured your designs with my empty-headed words. I have been holding forth on matters I cannot understand, on marvels beyond me and my knowledge. I knew you then only by hearsay; but now, having seen you with my own eyes, I retract all I have said, and in dust and ashes I repent." Job was willing to remain humble and seek forgiveness from God, instead of sticking to his pride and ego. As a result, the reading tells us that God blessed Job with wealth, property, offspring and other things, much more than Job could ever imagine.

What about us? Are we able to remain humble even though the world is tempting us to become proud, egoistic, and have a sense of entitlement? Have we learnt to become more like Job, willing to humble ourselves and let God be our help and guide? May we be make effort and be willing to walk humbly in God's ways, and glorify God in all we say and do.

Saturday of Week 25 Year 2

I sometimes wonder and ponder whether some of us are aware of the direction we are taking in our lives. We seem to be so busy with earthly pursuits, and we take great effort in making a name for ourselves; or enriching ourselves, thinking that we are doing so for our future happiness and security, and for the happiness and security of our loved ones. But the reality is: at the end of the day, do all these efforts really matter? Will our efforts be long lasting?

In today's reading, we are cautioned that all our earthly pursuits would be scrutinised: "But this you must know: for all these things God will bring you to judgement." Not only that, the reading reminds us: "while man goes to his everlasting home. And the mourners are already walking to and fro in the street; before the silver cord has snapped, or the golden lamp been broken, or the pitcher shattered at the spring, or the pulley cracked at the well, or before the dust returns to the earth as it once came from it, and the breath to God who gave it. Vanity of vanities, the Preacher says. All is vanity."

If we look at what the reading tells us, all our earthly pursuits may eventually be insignificant when we return to the Lord. It does not mean that we should totally disregard our livelihood here on earth, but what the reading is reminding us is to set our priorities right. Are we focusing so much on temporary things here on earth, that we end up neglecting our relationship with God? Let us take caution and not end up regretting later, since all that we have here on earth is impermanent, and our eternal future is at stake.

Saturday of Week 24 Year 2

I sometimes come across people asking me what we would look like or be like after we die. Some begin to wonder whether a loved one would look or be the same. Some are even afraid to know what a loved one would look like or be like, especially when the loved one had gone through much suffering due to disease when the loved one was alive. But the reality is that our appearance would not be the same as when we were alive, since our bodies are perishable.

In today's reading, we are reminded: "Someone may ask, ‘How are dead people raised, and what sort of body do they have when they come back?’ They are stupid questions. Whatever you sow in the ground has to die before it is given new life and the thing that you sow is not what is going to come; you sow a bare grain, say of wheat or something like that, It is the same with the resurrection of the dead: the thing that is sown is perishable but what is raised is imperishable; the thing that is sown is contemptible but what is raised is glorious; the thing that is sown is weak but what is raised is powerful; when it is sown it embodies the soul, when it is raised it embodies the spirit."

The reading reminds us that our bodies will die, decay and eventually turn to dust, but our souls will become better and glorious, especially if we have been maintaining a good relationship with God. This is why we should not be too concerned about how we would look like or be like after we die. We should also not be too concerned about earthly things, since such things are impermanent. Instead, we should make more effort in growing in relationship with God. Are we putting our priorities right, and letting God be our guide and happiness?

Saturday of Week 23 Year 2

Why do some people choose to do evil? It seems strange that some people would do so, but each and every one of us are free to choose. In life, we make many choices, some good, some not so good. But the reality is that we take responsibility for our choices, and face the consequences should such choices turn out to be not so good. Even in our spiritual life, we can choose to grow closer to God, or we could choose to drift away from Him. Eventually, we need to make an ultimate choice, to do good, or to do evil. We call such an ultimate choice a "fundamental option" where we make a choice for keeps, as there is no middle ground.

In today's reading, St. Paul cautions us: "My dear brothers, you must keep clear of idolatry... I have no desire to see you in communion with demons. You cannot drink the cup of the Lord and the cup of demons. You cannot take your share at the table of the Lord and at the table of demons. Do we want to make the Lord angry; are we stronger than he is?"

St Paul is cautioning us to keep clear of idolatry, since once we walk down that path, there is no turning back and such a choice would lead to our ruin. St. Paul is also cautioning us that, at the end of the day, we cannot share at the table of the Lord and at the table of demons, since we can only make one choice. May we choose wisely, since such a choice is for keeps and our eternal future is at stake.

Saturday of Week 22 Year 2

It is tempting and easy for us to begin interpreting church teaching according to our whims and fancies, or even according to our benefit, preference, convenience and advantage. When a certain church teaching is not to our liking, some of us begin to question why such teachings are there in the first place, and some even begin to try and circumvent such teaching. For example, when it comes to the 10 commandments, how many of us have tried to interpret the 10 commandments according to our liking? For example, you see a mango hanging just slightly outside the fence of your neighour's garden. We are told in the 10 commandments not to covet or steal. But when we see the juicy, ripe and deliciously looking mango, would we adhere to the 10 commandments, or would we begin to make excuses to take the mango?

In today's reading, St. Paul tells us to "Keep to what is written." St. Paul was referring to the Scriptures and to the written teachings that were handed to the Christian community at Corinth, because the Christian community at Corinth were beginning to interpret the teachings for their own convenience and advantage, especially where such teachings seemed too demanding and affected them personally. What St. Paul was doing was to help the Christian community at Corinth to come to their senses and to help them grow spiritually according to what they have been taught.

What about us? Are we willing to stick to the teachings of our Christian faith? Or have we begun to pick and choose what is pleasing or convenient to us, and change or ignore teachings which we do not agree with or find uncomfortable? May we not stray from true and proper Christian teaching, and help others to do the same, as we strive to grow spiritually and grow closer to God.

Wednesday of Week 21 Year 2

Have you ever been lazy in your life? Some could be lazy in doing house work, and this could result in an unkempt appearance or a messy house, which then could attract unwanted creatures such as rats, mice, snakes, cockroaches, centipedes and other nasties. Some could be lazy in office work, and this could cause one to fall behind in their deadlines and workloads, and could even lead to one losing his or her job. Some could even be lazy in caring for their health, thinking that one is in the pink of health, and this could lead to serious complications later in life, and could even lead to an untimely death. Laziness can come in many forms, but it is laziness in our prayer life, in our spiritual life and in our relationship with God which we need to watch out for.

In today's reading,  St Paul cautions us: "In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, we urge you, brothers, to keep away from any of the brothers who refuses to work or to live according to the tradition we passed on to you. You know how you are supposed to imitate us: now we were not idle when we were with you..."

When we are lazy or idle, we begin to neglect many things, including our spiritual life. We think that we are fine, but the truth is we are not that fine. We sometimes hear the saying: "an idle mind is a devil's workshop." When one has too much time in one's hands, is lazy and does not utilise the time properly, one could begin to waste time doing frivolous or unnecessary things, some of which could lead one to commit even more serious sins. Are we guilty of being lazy or idle? Are we using time wisely? Do we realise the consequences of being lazy?

Wednesday of Week 19 Year 2

I believe each of us, at some point of our lives, would have done something wrong to another person, or another person would have done something wrong towards us. When a person has done something wrong towards us, how do we respond? Do we try to deal with the issue in a gradual and amicable way? Or do we go straight away to higher ups, and demand that such higher ups deal with the person? What about if we are the ones who have done something wrong towards others? Would we be humble and willing to make amends, talk things through, seek forgiveness, and move on?

In today's Gospel, Jesus said, "If your brother does something wrong, go and have it out with him alone, between your two selves. If he listens to you, you have won back your brother. If he does not listen, take one or two others along with you: the evidence of two or three witnesses is required to sustain any charge. But if he refuses to listen to these, report it to the community; and if he refuses to listen to the community, treat him like a pagan or a tax collector."

As you can see, dealing with another person who has done something wrong is not an easy or quick matter. It requires patience, persistence, firmness, compassion and mercy towards the other person, instead of taking the easy way out, wash our hands off any effort to dialogue with the person, and get higher ups involved to "kena" or "give it nicely" to the other person. We ought to be against the wrongdoing, not the wrongdoer, and try to help the other person grow and change for the better, instead of belittling or humiliating the other person, possibly to boost our pride and ego. Have we been charitable and loving towards those who have wronged us?

Saturday of Week 18 Year 2

How patient are we in letting God's will be done? We sometimes expect God to answer our prayers quickly, or to help us when we turn to Him for help, but by doing so, are we really letting God's will be done, or are we actually demanding that our will be done? For example, if we are stricken with a serious illness, would we expect God to heal us quickly, or would we be willing to be patient and let God decide what is best for us?

In today's reading, God reminded Habakkuk: "if it comes slowly, wait, for come it will, without fail. ‘See how he flags, he whose soul is not at rights, but the upright man will live by his faithfulness.’" Habakkuk was reminded that God's will would be done, not according to his terms, but according to God's terms, and all that was needed was patience and trust.

What about us? When we pray the Lord's Prayer, we are reminded: "Thy Kingdom come, Thy will be done." Would we be willing and humble enough to let God's will be done, while we remain patient and trust that God would make a way, even though it may take some time? Let us not be so easily disheartened or give up or even despair. Instead, let us remain faithful in God's love and care, and let His will be done.

Saturday of Week 17 Year 2

It is never easy to tell it as it is, or to tell the cold hard truth. I believe most people prefer to say or hear good news, and try as much as possible to avoid bad news. But the reality is that at times, bad news is necessary to help us grow, or to wake us up on certain realities, or even to protect us from possible harm. Also, at times, bad news could actually turn out to be good news after all, if one were to look at it from a different point of view.

In today's reading, the priests and prophets wanted to get rid of the prophet Jeremiah, as he had prophesied against the city. But Jeremiah was prophesying bad news not because he enjoyed saying bad things or for the fun of it, but to warn the people of the consequences of not amending their actions and listening to God's voice. The priests and prophets were not willing to listen to bad news from Jeremiah, but ironically, it was the city officials and the people who chose to do so, since they were convinced that such bad news was necessary and a wake up call for all to buck up and change their ways. Because of this, the city officials and the people refused to get rid of Jeremiah.

What about us? How would we treat bad news? Would we, like the priests and prophets, try to prevent bad news from circulating, or would we, like the city officials and the people, accept such bad news and change our ways? Sometimes bad news could actually save us from mortal danger, or even spiritual danger; and help us become better persons. May we learn to accept news, both good and bad, act upon such news for our own spiritual good, and continue to walk in His ways.

Friday of Week 16 Year 2

How loyal are we in our lives, when it comes to our family, our spouse, our workplace, in society, and even in a country? Are we loyal only when it befits us, and when things are not to our liking or not going our way, we run away or look for alternatives? It is easy for some of us to become disloyal, especially when we are more concerned only about ourselves, and perhaps our loved ones. But how many of us are willing to set aside our ego, our pride, our need for personal gratification, and remain loyal, come what may?

In today's reading, we are reminded: "Come back, disloyal children – it is the Lord who speaks – for I alone am your Master." The question we need to ask ourselves is this: are we willing to be loyal at all costs, through thick and through thin, and continue remaining loyal even when we face persecution or even death? When it comes to our relationship with God, would we remain loyal to Him, knowing that He will guide and help us no matter how tough the situation may be?

Saturday of Week 15 Year 2

In today's reading, we see examples of persons who "plot evil, who lie in bed planning mischief! No sooner is it dawn than they do it – their hands have the strength for it. Seizing the fields that they covet, they take over houses as well, owner and house they confiscate together, taking both man and inheritance." Such persons don't think about God, and they don't even bother about Him. But to these evil doers, God has this to say: Woe to those who plot evil" and "your necks will not escape; nor will you be able to walk proudly."

When we hear of such evil persons, some of us may condemn them or even shun them, but while it seems easy for us to condemn such persons for doing evil, what about us? Have some of us also committed such evil at some point of our lives? Are some of us persisting in doing evil and committing despicable acts, even after hearing such warning from God? May we examine our lives carefully, and avoid falling into evil, for the betterment of our eternal future.

Saturday of Week 14 Year 2

Have some of us become more and more complacent or taking things for granted when it comes to sin? For example, I have noticed that when it comes to Lent and Advent, the number of faithful who come for the Sacrament of Reconciliation suddenly increases or surges, sometimes to a point where the priests present find it difficult to cope. But what about other times of the year? Do people only have sins to confess at certain times of the year, and they are sinless at other times?

Today's reading tells us of the prophet Isaiah who had a mystical vision of the holiness of God. The prophet confessed his sinfulness, and subsequently he was cleansed and healed of his sinfulness, because he experienced the overwhelming glory of God. Not only that, the mystical experience also made him readily and willingly respond to God's call to be His messenger.

If the prophet Isaiah Isaiah could recognise the magnitude of God's holiness, and how incompatible sin is to God, then what about us?. Have some of us become so lax or have a "tidak apa" or "don't care" attitude when it comes to sin? Or do some of us think that sin should be accumulated into a longer list or litany, before seeking confession? May we come to realise the seriousness of sin, and go for the Sacrament of Confession as soon as possible, to mend our relationship with God, and for the betterment of our eternal future.

Saturday of Week 13 Year 2

In today’s Gospel we could see fasting in two different perspectives: The first perspective is that of John’s disciples and the second perspective is that of Jesus. According to the first perspective, fasting is viewed as an obligation, or something which has to be done, whether one likes it or not. This is why John's disciples questioned: “Why is it that we and the Pharisees fast, but your disciples do not?" The second perspective, that of Jesus, tells us of a deeper meaning of fasting. Jesus responded to John's disciples by saying: “Surely the bridegroom’s attendants would never think of mourning as long as the bridegroom is still with them? But the time will come for the bridegroom to be taken away from them, and then they will fast."

Jesus wanted to show to John's disciples that fasting is not merely a legal demand or done just to fulfil a law; instead it is a way of becoming closer to Him. In other words, we could come to an understanding that with Jesus, no fasting is necessary or needed; but away from Him, no amount of fasting suffices. When we fast just to follow the law, such fasting lacks merit and lacks meaning, whereas fasting by observing the spirit of the law brings fullness to our sacrifice, and guides us closer to Jesus. Perhaps we should re-examine our view of fasting and see whether it is something imposed on us or forced upon us, or an avenue and opportunity for us to restore and build our relationship with the Lord.

Saturday of Week 12 Year 2

I still remember at one parish I served: there was this man who had been ill for quite sometime. His family and he were non-Catholics and not even Christians. I was quite surprised when his family came to ask me to pray over him because they believed that prayers are very powerful for his recovery. It was indeed an expression of faith. While praying over him, I saw in them the calmness and surrender not expected from a non-Catholic family. The man got better, and the family eventually attended RCIA and got baptised.

In today's gospel, Jesus was amazed at the deep faith of the centurion who was a Gentile. Even though the centurion was not a follower of Jesus, he still believed that Jesus can heal. Because of such faith, Jesus healed the centurion's servant.

What can we learn from this? When we have faith in God, God can make many things possible. All we need to do is to trust and believe that God will help us, not according to our time and our way, but in His time and His way. May we have faith like that centurion, a faith that continues to rely and trust in God’s power even if things do not happen the way we want and the time we expect.

Friday of Week 12 Year 2

How many of us can really rely on our leaders or even kings and royalty in our country? If there is trouble and our country is on the verge of being overrun or conquered by enemy forces, would our leaders, kings or royalty be willing to stick with us and defend our country to the very end? Quite likely, our leaders, kings or royalty would flee, leaving others to defend our country as best we can. It seems as though one's own survival and personal interest takes precedence over the interest of the country, as far as some leaders, kings or royalty are concerned.

In today's reading, we see an example of a king who took more interest in his own survival, and not so much on the interest of the kingdom. In the reading: "...the king made his escape under cover of dark, with all the fighting men, by way of the gate between the two walls, which is near the king’s garden – the Chaldaeans had surrounded the city – and made his way towards the Arabah. The Chaldaean troops pursued the king and caught up with him in the plains of Jericho, where all his troops deserted. The Chaldaeans captured the king and took him to the king of Babylon at Riblah, who passed sentence on him. He had the sons of Zedekiah slaughtered before his eyes, then put out Zedekiah’s eyes and, loading him with chains, carried him off to Babylon."

From the reading, we see two examples where one's personal interest takes precedence. Firstly, King Zedekiah was not bothered about the city and more concerned about his own survival, and he made his escape with his fighting men. Then when the Chaldaen troops caught up with him in the plains of Jericho, his own troops deserted him, leaving him to his fate. This shows that at the end of the day, not everyone who claims to be our leaders have the interest of our city or country at heart, since at times, personal interest takes precedence. However, we do have a leader or king who would not desert or abandon us. That King is our loving God. Shouldn't we then pay more attention and hope on our loving God, knowing that He would protect and care for us, and not abandon us?

Immaculate Heart of Mary

I believe many of us would have tried our level best to remember by heart the many things we learnt at school, such as certain phrases in a language, or certain mathematical formula, or some other matter, especially when we were told that such things may come out during the exams. However, more often than not, such things would only be remembered, but not really pondered upon or questioned. Then when we leave school upon completing our studies, how many of us would still remember all those things we had tried to remember by heart?

Our mother Mary, whose feast of the Immaculate Heart we celebrate today, did not just remember things; she pondered over the events and experiences in her life. Mary would have pondered over the joy of the first Christmas, and also the sorrow and grief at Calvary. In today's Gospel, it was the worry and anxiety of looking for Jesus and after finding him at the temple, the surprise at the answer He gave, that Mary also pondered in her heart. Mary remembered and pondered in her heart all these events and experiences and much more.

Today, as we celebrate the feast of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, we are invited to have a contemplative heart and ponder about the many times we have experienced God in our lives. When we remember and ponder in our hearts, we become more aware of God's presence in our lives, and we begin to deepen our hope and confidence in God, come what may.

Saturday of Week 10 Year 2

One of the challenges we face when dealing with persons of different cultures is that in some cultures, speaking plainly and clearly is expected; whereas in other cultures, the 'face' is so important that persons of such cultures would try their level best not to cause another to 'lose face.' When the 'face' is important, some persons would try to break the news, whether good or bad, in such a way that the other person would not be 'embarrassed', so to speak. Such an approach has led to misunderstandings and even ill-feelings, when different cultures clash.

As Christians, we too have a 'Christian culture' as shown in today's Gospel. The Gospel tells us: "Do not swear: All you need say is “Yes” if you mean yes, “No” if you mean no." When we swear, we may be trying avoid another from 'losing face' but in doing so, we may sometimes find ourselves unable to fulfil what we swore; or we may even end up telling lies. May we come to realise the importance of saying what we mean and meaning what we say, and all that we say and do, we give glory to God.

Saturday of Week 9 Year 2

One thing we need to be careful about is when we come across certain church teachings which seem too good to be true, or sound strange. When we come across such teachings, we need to discern whether such teachings end up appealing to our needs, wants and desires, instead of what the church actually teaches. This is because those who teach such so-called church teachings often have got a hidden agenda, and not for the good of the church. Perhaps one key question we need to ponder is this: are such so-called church teaching really what Jesus taught us?

In today's reading, we are reminded: "I put this duty to you, in the name of his Appearing and of his kingdom: proclaim the message and, welcome or unwelcome, insist on it. Refute falsehood, correct error, call to obedience – but do all with patience and with the intention of teaching. The time is sure to come when, far from being content with sound teaching, people will be avid for the latest novelty and collect themselves a whole series of teachers according to their own tastes; and then, instead of listening to the truth, they will turn to myths. Be careful always to choose the right course; be brave under trials; make the preaching of the Good News your life’s work, in thoroughgoing service."

The reading cautions us not to be so easily duped or led astray by such teachings, but remain steadfast to the truth, with patience and with the intention of teaching. May we always choose to preserve the truth, and help others do the same.

Friday of Week 9 Year 2

Being a Christian is never easy. Anyone who claims that being a Christian is easy is either not really living a Christian life, or they may be lying. This is because as Christians the ways of Christ quite often do not agree or do not comply with the ways of the world. For example, as Christians, we are told to love, even to love our enemies; but the world tells us to hate others, or try to put others down to lift ourselves up, and only love ourselves and be concerned only about ourselves.

When we do not follow the ways of the world, and instead follow the ways of Christ, what happens? Today's reading tells us: "You are well aware, then, that anybody who tries to live in devotion to Christ is certain to be attacked; while these wicked impostors will go from bad to worse, deceiving others and deceived themselves You must keep to what you have been taught and know to be true; remember who your teachers were, and how, ever since you were a child, you have known the holy scriptures – from these you can learn the wisdom that leads to salvation through faith in Christ Jesus."

What does this mean to us? It means that following the ways of Christ is not going to be a bed of roses or a walk in the park. We will face many trials and tribulations, and as the reading tells us, we are certain to be attacked in some way. It also means that we must not let ourselves go astray, or give up and end up following the ways of the world. Instead, we must have faith in Christ Jesus, and remain steadfast in such faith. Are we willing to endure much challenges in the world, with hope and trust that Jesus will save us?

Friday of Week 9 Year 2

Among the Jews, the most common title for the 'Christ' was, 'Son of David.' In today's Gospel, the purpose why Jesus then said "The Lord said to my Lord: Sit at my right hand and I will put your enemies under your feet." (which is actually Psalm 110:1), is to show to the crowds and the Pharisees that the Christ was more than a descendant of David because David calls this descendant of his, “my lord.” This is to show that David views the Christ as his Lord and superior.

So what does it mean to acknowledge Jesus as Lord? To acknowledge Jesus as Lord means that we should owe our full submission and loyalty to Him. If we owe our full submission and loyalty to Him, then He is our Lord and the Master of our lives instead of the many earthly things such as: our passions, the love of money, alcohol, drugs, and so on; which may distract us or which we may pursue as if these things matter more and may have become like our "lord" instead of Jesus. The question we need to ask ourselves is this: do we really give to Jesus our loyalty? Or have we allowed ourselves to divert our loyalty to other 'lords'?

Tuesday of Week 9 Year 2

Growing in holiness is not something we can do in an instant. We may be used to getting so many other things done instantly; such as withdrawing money from an ATM, or making a cup of coffee; but when it comes to growing in relationship with God and growing in holiness, it takes time and effort. We may experience temptations along the way, and some of us may commit sin; but we are constantly reminded to get up, seek forgiveness, move on and use such experiences to help us grow spiritually, as we let our loving God help us and guide us.

In today's reading, we are reminded: "You should be living holy and saintly lives while you wait and long for the Day of God to come... So then, my friends, while you are waiting, do your best to live lives without spot or stain so that he will find you at peace. Think of our Lord’s patience as your opportunity to be saved. You have been warned about this, my friends; be careful not to get carried away by the errors of unprincipled people, from the firm ground that you are standing on. Instead, go on growing in the grace and in the knowledge of our Lord and saviour Jesus Christ."

As the reading clearly tells us, we need to be patient and long for the Day of God to come, and while doing so, we should be living holy and saintly lives. Of course, living holy and saintly lives is not easy, especially when we face so many challenges and temptations in the world. This is why our focus should be on Jesus, and let him take control of our lives. While it is necessary for us to live and survive in the world, we should not let worldly attractions overwhelm us or distract us from our ultimate goal. May we stay focused in our quest to be with Jesus, and help others to do the same.

Friday of Week 6 Year 2

It is easy for us to give a lot of comments and suggestions for improvement or changes in church. But sometimes, such comments and suggestions are just that: merely comments and suggestions, without any commitment to take action or to offer oneself to see such comments and suggestions through. For example, some people like to comment or suggest that churches these days should have a funeral parlour, since more and more people these days live in flats, apartments or condominiums, where facilities for a wake may not be available. But when such persons are asked to form a committee and help raise funds, so that a funeral parlour could be constructed somewhere in the church grounds, such persons suddenly give all sorts of excuses, or back down from their suggestions. Are some of us all talk and no action?

In today's reading, we are told that "Faith is like that: if good works do not go with it, it is quite dead." Also, the reading tells us that "A body dies when it is separated from the spirit, and in the same way faith is dead if it is separated from good deeds." We say that we have faith; we believe in God; we recite the creed every Sunday; we call ourselves Christians; but is our faith merely words? Is our faith all talk but no or little action? Are we willing to do something about what we say, or are we merely blowing hot air?

Thursday of Week 6 Year 2

How do we treat others in church? Do we treat all as equal, as brothers and sisters in Christ; or do we treat others according to the way they dress, or their appearance, or according to the their status or rank in society? In some churches, I have noticed that when a person is well dressed or has got a title or something, some treat such a person like a VIP. But when a beggar or shabbily dressed person comes to church, some may begin to form all sorts of thoughts and assume all sorts of scenarios, whether good or bad.

Today's reading warns us: "Can’t you see that you have used two different standards in your mind, and turned yourselves into judges, and corrupt judges at that?" Today's reading also tells us that "the right thing to do is to keep the supreme law of scripture: you must love your neighbour as yourself; but as soon as you make distinctions between classes of people, you are committing sin, and under condemnation for breaking the Law."

The question we need to ask ourselves is this: Are we segregating and treating people differently in church? Are we not all brothers and sisters in Christ, regardless of how we look or who we are? If we are continuing to treat people in such a manner, how different are we compared to the world? Are we followers of Christ, or have we allowed the ways of the world to corrupt us?

Wednesday of Week 6 Year 2

When we say something, are we saying things based on our perception, feelings or emotions, without verifying the facts? Are we aware of what we are saying, or are we blindly saying things? Do we realise that words, once said, cannot be taken back?

In today's reading, we are cautioned to "be quick to listen but slow to speak and slow to rouse your temper; God’s righteousness is never served by man’s anger." God gave us two ears and one tongue, possibly to remind us that we should listen carefully and speak only when necessary, since sometimes we end up saying more than we should. Sometimes we say faster than we think, and that could only make us look foolish at the end. May we use words with caution, and use words for the glory of God.

Saturday of Week 5 Year 2

I believe most of us know that God's commandments, as well as Jesus' commandments of loving God and neighbour, are the basis for church rules and practices, whereas customs are traditional and widely accepted ways of behaving or doing something in the church community. Such rules, practices and customs did not materialise overnight, and they are meant for the good of the entire Christian community, not just for the good of a few. However, we sometimes come across certain persons or groups who are against such rules, practices and customs, because such persons or groups want things their way and for their benefit.

In today's reading, we come across Jeorboam who did not like certain rules, practices or customs among the Israelites; and Jeroboam thought to himself, ‘As things are, the kingdom will revert to the House of David. If this people continues to go up to the Temple of the Lord in Jerusalem to offer sacrifices, the people’s heart will turn back again to their lord, Rehoboam king of Judah, and they will put me to death.’ And so, Jeroboam created his own gods, by making two golden calves; he got the people to worship such false gods; "He set up the temple of the high places and appointed priests from ordinary families, who were not of the sons of Levi"; and even had the audacity to "institute a feast in the eighth month, on the fifteenth of the month, like the feast that was kept in Judah." Jeroboam did all these because he did not like certain rules, practices or customs among the Israelites, and he wanted to save his own skin. As a result, "such conduct made the House of Jeroboam a sinful House, and caused its ruin and extinction from the face of the earth."

What about us? When we are faced with certain church rules, practices or customs, would we change or discard such rules, practices or customs as we please, just because they are inconvenient to us or we feel uncomfortable towards them? Is faith like changing clothes, where we discard things which we are unable to accept? May we continue to be faithful, and walk in God's ways.

Saturday of Week 4 Year 2

One of the many realities in life is that we cannot do everything. There are some things which we can do; some things which we can do really well, as we have the gift or talent for it; and there are also some things which we just cannot do, or are able to do with some difficulty. Some things can be learnt, but learning to do such things has its limits, since we may not be naturally adept or gifted in doing such things. This is where we need to learn to let go and let others do other things which we may not necessarily be good at, or depend on God's providence to get things done.

In today's reading, king Solomon acknowledged before the Lord that he was a young man and unskilled in leadership. He asked the Lord for wisdom so that he could understand how to discern between good and evil; and to be a good king following the ways of the Lord. Because of this, king Solomon was not only given wisdom, but blessed by the Lord with power, wealth and victory over his enemies. King Solomon knew his abilities and limitations, and chose to depend on God's providence, instead of trying to do things on his own.

What about us? Are we willing and humble enough to acknowledge our abilities and limitations just as King Solomon did, and seek wisdom from the Lord, so that we could do His will? May we come to realise that ultimately, our help is in the Lord, and may we glorify Him in all we do.

Saturday of Week 3 Year 2

What sort of response do we have when we commit sin or do something wrong? Are we willing to own up to the sin committed or the wrong done? Or would we go through great lengths to deny any wrongdoing or sin, even though the sin or wrongdoing is so evident beyond reasonable doubt? Have we allowed ourselves to become blinded by pride and ego, and think that we are never wrong or never guilty?

Today's reading shows us how King David responded when the prophet Nathan confronted him with the many sins he had committed. Instead of trying to worm his way out, or make all sorts of excuses, or deny his guilt, King David was docile and humble enough to admit his guilt and merely said: "I have sinned against the Lord."

What about us? Would we be willing to own up to our wrongdoing, our mistakes, our sins? Let us not allow pride and ego get the better of us and be humble and docile, just like King David showed us, and admit our wrongdoing, our mistakes, our sins. Let us not allow the stain of wrongdoing or sin remain, lest we end up ruining our relationship with God.

Saturday of Week 2 Year 2

How generous are we towards others? Are we generous to all, regardless of who they are and where they come from, or are we generous only to certain persons who may be beneficial to us in some way? Are we generous in our time and wealth, even to the point where it hurts, or are we calculative in giving what we are comfortable in giving, or only what we can spare?

In today's Gospel, Jesus was home. A crowd had gathered and Jesus could have been calculative in giving his time towards the crowd, since some would have thought that Jesus ought to have some privacy and rest. However, to Jesus, being generous knows no bounds or limits, especially when it comes to doing the will of God. Instead of being calculative, Jesus was generous even to the point where it hurts.

What about us? would we be willing to be generous like Jesus, even forgoing our personal needs or comfort? Are we willing to put others before self, and follow Jesus' example, who showed us the true meaning of being generous? May we learn to be more like Jesus, who came to serve, not to be served, and in all we say and do, give glory to God.

Saturday of Week 1 Year 2

It is easy for us to condemn or ostracise a person, especially if the person has committed a serious crime; but how many of us are willing to give the person a second chance, especially if the person is genuinely remorseful and wanting to change his or her ways? What if we are the ones who have done something wrong and are asking for a second chance? Would we then be compassionate and merciful towards others and give them a second chance as well, just as we have been given a second chance?

In today's Gospel, Matthew, a tax collector was called by Jesus to follow Him. As a tax collector, Matthew was condemned and ostracised by his countrymen because he sold his services to the Romans to collect taxes and profited in the process. However, Jesus was willing to give Matthew a second chance by inviting him to follow Him.

What about us? Jesus gives us plenty of chances to start again. Would we be willing to set aside our prejudice, pride, self-righteousness and ego, and give others a chance, just as God has given us many chances to turn back to Him?

Saturday after Epiphany

Whose will are we trying to follow? Are we following God's will, or are we following our own will? If we say we are following God's will, then surely we should be praying for His will to be done, just as we do when we pray the Lord's Prayer. But sometimes we pray that our needs and wants are met, instead of leaving it to the Lord, and trusting that His will would be sufficient. Are we willing to refocus our prayers so that God's will be done?

In today's reading, we are reminded: "We are quite confident that if we ask the Son of God for anything, and it is in accordance with his will, he will hear us; and, knowing that whatever we may ask, he hears us, we know that we have already been granted what we asked of him." Ultimately, the reading reminds us that God listens to our prayers in accordance with His will, not ours, and that if we ask for something in accordance with His will, then we can be confident that He will hear us. Are we willing to ask in accordance with His will, trusting and knowing that He will do what is best for us, for His purposes and glory?