It is easy for us to condemn and complain about certain persons or groups in church who we think are sinning or behaving in an inappropriate way. Not only that, some of us may avoid getting involved in any church activities or even leave the church, because we think that the church is full of hypocrites or is full of sinners. Some of us think that only good people or saintly people should be in church, and everyone else is damned or condemned. But if we understand what being church means, we would realise that the church is for both saints and sinners, and all are called to holiness, all are called to repentance.
In today's Gospel, we come across the parable of the wheat and darnel. Instead of having the darnel removed quickly and in doing so, risk removing the wheat as well, the landowner allowed the wheat and darnel to grow together, until the time of harvest came. Once it was time to harvest, then only was the wheat and darnel separated. In the same way, God allows the church to have both saints and sinners present, and both are given ample chances and opportunities to grow in relationship with Him. But God is not going to wait too long for us to change our ways. When the harvest comes, would we be among the wheat, or would we end up among the darnel? Ultimately, it is our choice to make.
Showing posts with label 16th. Show all posts
Showing posts with label 16th. Show all posts
Tuesday, 12 July 2022
Wednesday, 7 July 2021
Saturday of Week 16 Year 1
Words spoken can be misinterpreted or misheard. Sometimes certain parties could take what is said, and twist or change the words according to their interpretation or for their benefit. This is is especially true when it comes to agreements or contracts, since what is said by one party could be heard differently by another, leading to misunderstandings or even legal action. That is why, no matter what, it is necessary for words to be put in writing, and to further reinforce what has been written, such written words are signed by parties involved, to seal the deal, so to speak.
In today's reading, "Moses went and told the people all the commands of the Lord and all the ordinances. In answer, all the people said with one voice, ‘We will observe all the commands that the Lord has decreed.’ Moses put all the commands of the Lord into writing... Then Moses took the blood and cast it towards the people. This’ he said ‘is the blood of the Covenant that the Lord has made with you, containing all these rules.’ From the reading, we can see that Moses not only told the people the commands of the Lord, he also had the covenant signed on the people with the blood from the bullocks. This means that the people had "sealed the deal" with the Lord in writing, and they had no longer any excuse to misinterpret or misunderstand the terms and conditions of the Covenant.
In our situation, we had "sealed the deal" with God when we were baptised. We even went through catechism classes or RCIA to make sure we understood the terms of God's Covenant. Moreover, we reinforced our Covenant with God when we received Confirmation. This means that we have no excuse to misinterpret or misunderstand the terms and conditions of the Covenant. May we observe all God's Covenant without excuses or neglect, and encourage others to do the same.
Thursday, 18 June 2020
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?
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?
Sunday, 9 June 2019
Saturday of Week 16 Year 1
Over the years, I have come across people who say they do not go to church any more
because they have a problem with certain persons in church, or they
think that the church is full of hypocrites, or they think that the
church is full of sinners. Such persons think that only good people or
saintly people should be in church, and everyone else is damned or
condemned. But if we understand what being church means, we would realise that the church is for both saints and sinners, and all are called to holiness, all are called to repentance.
In today's Gospel, we come across the parable of the wheat and darnel. Instead of having the darnel removed quickly and in doing so, risk removing the wheat as well, the landowner allowed the wheat and darnel to grow together, until the time of harvest came. Once it was time to harvest, then only was the wheat and darnel separated. In the same way, God allows the church to have both saints and sinners present, and both are given ample chances to grow in relationship with Him. But God is not going to wait too long for us to change our ways. When the harvest comes, would we be among the wheat, or would we end up among the darnel? Ultimately, it is our choice to make.
In today's Gospel, we come across the parable of the wheat and darnel. Instead of having the darnel removed quickly and in doing so, risk removing the wheat as well, the landowner allowed the wheat and darnel to grow together, until the time of harvest came. Once it was time to harvest, then only was the wheat and darnel separated. In the same way, God allows the church to have both saints and sinners present, and both are given ample chances to grow in relationship with Him. But God is not going to wait too long for us to change our ways. When the harvest comes, would we be among the wheat, or would we end up among the darnel? Ultimately, it is our choice to make.
Friday, 7 June 2019
Tuesday of Week 16 Year 1
It is easy for us to claim that we are related to Jesus, especially since we call ourselves brothers and sisters in Christ, sons and daughters of God. But being related to Jesus is not enough, since Jesus in today's Gospel reminds us that having a relationship with Him is more than just familial or
blood-relationship. In the Gospel, He says: "'Who is my mother? Who are
my brothers?' And stretching out his hand towards his disciples he said,
'Here are my mother and my brothers. Anyone who does the will of my
Father in heaven, he is my brother and sister and mother.'"
The question we need to ask ourselves is this: Are we claiming "relationship" with Jesus only in name, while we lord it over others or feel proud about being such a relationship? Or have we learnt to be humble, and do the will of God? Relationship with Jesus is more than just words; may we put into action our "relationship" with Jesus through our words and deeds.
The question we need to ask ourselves is this: Are we claiming "relationship" with Jesus only in name, while we lord it over others or feel proud about being such a relationship? Or have we learnt to be humble, and do the will of God? Relationship with Jesus is more than just words; may we put into action our "relationship" with Jesus through our words and deeds.
Thursday, 14 June 2018
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? Do we seek only benefits, perks and advantages when it befits us, and when things are not to our liking or not going our way, we run away or look for alternatives? For example, if our spouse is stricken with a serious disease, would we remain loyal to him or her, or would we start looking elsewhere for gratification? When the company is facing difficult times, do we care only about ourselves and leave, looking for better prospects, or are we willing to stay and weather out the storm? When our country is going through turmoil and corruption, do we stay to do what is right and help rebuild the country, or do we run away and look for greener pastures?
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? Even when it comes to our faith, do we remain loyal when certain teachings or practices are not to our liking? Or do we run away and look for some other faith which benefits us?
In today's reading, we are reminded: "Come back, disloyal children – it is the Lord who speaks – for I alone am your Master." Ultimately, we need to choose where our loyalties lie. If we choose to remain loyal to God, then we need to come back to Him and walk in His ways. May we choose wisely and not end up following the dictates of our hearts, and in doing so, risk our eternal future.
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? Even when it comes to our faith, do we remain loyal when certain teachings or practices are not to our liking? Or do we run away and look for some other faith which benefits us?
In today's reading, we are reminded: "Come back, disloyal children – it is the Lord who speaks – for I alone am your Master." Ultimately, we need to choose where our loyalties lie. If we choose to remain loyal to God, then we need to come back to Him and walk in His ways. May we choose wisely and not end up following the dictates of our hearts, and in doing so, risk our eternal future.
Sunday, 27 May 2018
Saturday of Week 16 Year 2
Over the years, we have come across certain individuals who commit all sorts of evil deeds and at the same time, appear to be pious and holy. Such persons call themselves Christians and even come to church and worship, but they do not live Christian lives. Some even think that God is on their side at all times, and they think that what they say and do outside of the church would not have any consequence to their relationship with God.
But the reality is: God and sin are incompatible. We cannot expect to remain in relationship with God, if we continue to sin and commit deplorable acts. We cannot hide our words and deeds from God, as today's reading tells us: "Yet here you are, trusting in delusive words, to no purpose! Steal, would you, murder, commit adultery, perjure yourselves, burn incense to Baal, follow alien gods that you do not know? – and then come presenting yourselves in this Temple that bears my name, saying: Now we are safe – safe to go on committing all these abominations! Do you take this Temple that bears my name for a robbers’ den? I, at any rate, am not blind – it is the Lord who speaks." God cannot be fooled by our deception and antics, and our coming to church does not mean we would get a free ticket or "get out of jail card" to get our sins cleared and we can continue to do as we please with impunity.
Perhaps we should ask ourselves: are we really following God's ways in our words, attitudes and conduct? Or have we been following the ways of the world, and putting on a front or a show at church. Let us be reminded that God is not blind, and if we continue our charade and masquerade, we do so only at our peril.
But the reality is: God and sin are incompatible. We cannot expect to remain in relationship with God, if we continue to sin and commit deplorable acts. We cannot hide our words and deeds from God, as today's reading tells us: "Yet here you are, trusting in delusive words, to no purpose! Steal, would you, murder, commit adultery, perjure yourselves, burn incense to Baal, follow alien gods that you do not know? – and then come presenting yourselves in this Temple that bears my name, saying: Now we are safe – safe to go on committing all these abominations! Do you take this Temple that bears my name for a robbers’ den? I, at any rate, am not blind – it is the Lord who speaks." God cannot be fooled by our deception and antics, and our coming to church does not mean we would get a free ticket or "get out of jail card" to get our sins cleared and we can continue to do as we please with impunity.
Perhaps we should ask ourselves: are we really following God's ways in our words, attitudes and conduct? Or have we been following the ways of the world, and putting on a front or a show at church. Let us be reminded that God is not blind, and if we continue our charade and masquerade, we do so only at our peril.
Tuesday, 25 July 2017
Wednesday of Week 16 Year 1
The Word of God is like soil, special nourishment which enables our soul to grow so that we could bear good fruit. But for us to benefit from the
Word of God, we need to examine ourselves and change our ways, so that we would benefit from such special nourishment. Today's Gospel speaks about
seeds falling on different types of environments with different soil
conditions. Each environment could be linked to our condition and the
condition of our soul.
The first environment (edge of the path) is like people who are not the least bit interested in the Word of God. They come late for Mass, or sometimes come only for certain major occasions like Christmas and Easter. These people seem more interested in other things and come to church just to fulfil the Sunday obligation (with great difficulty at times). The second environment (patches of rock with little soil) is like people who have superficial or shallow faith. They select only bits and pieces of the Word of God which suit them, while avoiding or ignoring those parts which are unpleasant or that which they think are not relevant to them. When some challenge occurs or when they face some difficulty, their faith withers away.
The third environment (among thorns) is like people who listen and accept the Word of God, but so many other things, worries, pressures and distractions cause them to lose focus. As a result, they feel as if God has abandoned them and they fall away, when in actuality, it is they who have abandoned God. They lack trust, perseverance and patience to press on and finish the race. I suppose many of us hope and pray that we will be like the fourth environment, where we gain access to rich soil. People who are in this fourth environment thrive and flourish, producing good fruit and giving glory to God.
So which environment are we presently in? Are we stuck in a particular environment? With God's Grace and providence, we can make effort and do our part to make a change and begin producing good fruit. Let us not delay or procrastinate any longer. and let the rich soil from God transform us into something better, for His glory.
The first environment (edge of the path) is like people who are not the least bit interested in the Word of God. They come late for Mass, or sometimes come only for certain major occasions like Christmas and Easter. These people seem more interested in other things and come to church just to fulfil the Sunday obligation (with great difficulty at times). The second environment (patches of rock with little soil) is like people who have superficial or shallow faith. They select only bits and pieces of the Word of God which suit them, while avoiding or ignoring those parts which are unpleasant or that which they think are not relevant to them. When some challenge occurs or when they face some difficulty, their faith withers away.
The third environment (among thorns) is like people who listen and accept the Word of God, but so many other things, worries, pressures and distractions cause them to lose focus. As a result, they feel as if God has abandoned them and they fall away, when in actuality, it is they who have abandoned God. They lack trust, perseverance and patience to press on and finish the race. I suppose many of us hope and pray that we will be like the fourth environment, where we gain access to rich soil. People who are in this fourth environment thrive and flourish, producing good fruit and giving glory to God.
So which environment are we presently in? Are we stuck in a particular environment? With God's Grace and providence, we can make effort and do our part to make a change and begin producing good fruit. Let us not delay or procrastinate any longer. and let the rich soil from God transform us into something better, for His glory.
Tuesday, 3 May 2016
Friday of Week 16 Year 1
Why do we come for Mass on Sunday? Some of us do so to fulfil the Sunday obligation. Some of us do so because we want to receive Holy Communion and be nourished by Jesus. How many of us come because we want to listen to God's Word, listen to the homily, and also receive Holy Communion? Do we pay attention while the readings are being read, the Gospel is being proclaimed and the homily is being preached? Do we recall what was the homily preached last Sunday? Or have we been day-dreaming, reading some Catholic publication, looking at the church bulletin, looking at our handphone (cellphone), getting distracted by some other thing, or doing something else while the Liturgy of the Word is being proclaimed?
In today's Gospel, we come across the parable of the sower, where the seed is the Word of God. What happens to the seed depends on how we have allowed it to be sown. Have we allowed the seed to be sown in rich soil, and let it grow in our hearts and in our soul? Or have we allowed other factors to distract us, and cause the seed to be lost, or taken away, or unable to grow? May we come to realise the importance of both the Liturgy of the Word and the Liturgy of the Eucharist, and give our utmost attention to both, so that we may be like the one "who received the seed in rich soil and yields a harvest and produces now a hundredfold, now sixty, now thirty."
In today's Gospel, we come across the parable of the sower, where the seed is the Word of God. What happens to the seed depends on how we have allowed it to be sown. Have we allowed the seed to be sown in rich soil, and let it grow in our hearts and in our soul? Or have we allowed other factors to distract us, and cause the seed to be lost, or taken away, or unable to grow? May we come to realise the importance of both the Liturgy of the Word and the Liturgy of the Eucharist, and give our utmost attention to both, so that we may be like the one "who received the seed in rich soil and yields a harvest and produces now a hundredfold, now sixty, now thirty."
Thursday of Week 16 Year 1
When we are invited to a banquet by the king or sultan or some VIP (Very Important Person), we would surely make extensive preparations. We would make sure that we have decent and clean clothes to wear, we would bathe and use perfume to ensure our bodies do not release any odour, and we would rehearse any necessary protocol so that we would know how to speak and behave in front of such persons.
In today's reading, God told Moses that He is coming to His people, and Moses was told what were the necessary preparations. The people were to wash their clothing and hold themselves in readiness for the third day, because God will descend on the mountain of Sinai in the sight of the people. On the third day, there were peals of thunder and lightning flashes, a dense cloud, and a loud trumpet blast, and inside the camp all the people trembled. There was smoke and fire and the mountain shook violently as God came to His people. The people experienced God, but it was an experience that required preparation on the part of the people.
What about us? What sort of preparation have we made should God decide to come to our midst? Would we be ready for Him should He come? Have we observed the necessary preparations, such as keeping our souls clean? Or have we been procrastinating, thinking that we have plenty of time to get ready? May we not be caught off-guard, and be ready to meet our loving God at all times.
In today's reading, God told Moses that He is coming to His people, and Moses was told what were the necessary preparations. The people were to wash their clothing and hold themselves in readiness for the third day, because God will descend on the mountain of Sinai in the sight of the people. On the third day, there were peals of thunder and lightning flashes, a dense cloud, and a loud trumpet blast, and inside the camp all the people trembled. There was smoke and fire and the mountain shook violently as God came to His people. The people experienced God, but it was an experience that required preparation on the part of the people.
What about us? What sort of preparation have we made should God decide to come to our midst? Would we be ready for Him should He come? Have we observed the necessary preparations, such as keeping our souls clean? Or have we been procrastinating, thinking that we have plenty of time to get ready? May we not be caught off-guard, and be ready to meet our loving God at all times.
Monday, 2 May 2016
Wednesday of Week 16 Year 1
Every once in a while, we hear of people migrating from one place to another, because they have heard wonderful stories about the other place, and they think that they would benefit much from the other place. Some even migrate from one country to another, because they think that the other country would offer better opportunities for them. People migrate in this way because they think that "the grass is always greener on the other side." But the reality is, the other side is not always as wonderful as it seems.
In today's reading, the Israelites had their freedom from slavery in Egypt. But now out in the wilderness, they began to complain about hunger and the lack of food, and they were saying that slavery in Egypt was better than freedom in the wilderness.But is slavery really better? God brought the Israelites out from Egypt after they had endured much suffering and hardship, and now that the Israelites were free, they were still complaining about what they lacked. But despite how difficult, obstinate and stubborn the Israelites were, God did not give up on them. He gave them food even though they were ungrateful. Even though the Israelites still had much to learn about God's love and generosity, God was patient with them.
What about us? Do we still think that "the grass is always greener on the other side." May we not be so easily duped by what others say or what we read, because sometimes, the other side may not be so wonderful after all. Sometimes the other side may lead us to slavery, while we may have some or even much more freedom at where we are. May we come to discover how loving and patient God is to us, and let Him be our help and guide.
In today's reading, the Israelites had their freedom from slavery in Egypt. But now out in the wilderness, they began to complain about hunger and the lack of food, and they were saying that slavery in Egypt was better than freedom in the wilderness.But is slavery really better? God brought the Israelites out from Egypt after they had endured much suffering and hardship, and now that the Israelites were free, they were still complaining about what they lacked. But despite how difficult, obstinate and stubborn the Israelites were, God did not give up on them. He gave them food even though they were ungrateful. Even though the Israelites still had much to learn about God's love and generosity, God was patient with them.
What about us? Do we still think that "the grass is always greener on the other side." May we not be so easily duped by what others say or what we read, because sometimes, the other side may not be so wonderful after all. Sometimes the other side may lead us to slavery, while we may have some or even much more freedom at where we are. May we come to discover how loving and patient God is to us, and let Him be our help and guide.
Monday of Week 16 Year 1
A man was trapped on the roof of his house and all around there were flood waters. A helicopter came and beckoned the man to climb up the ladder into the helicopter to safety, but the man said: "I trust that God will give me a sign that He will rescue me. I shall wait for the sign." The helicopter left, as it was dangerous to remain hovering in the area for too long. A speed boat came by and beckoned the man to hop onto the boat to safety, but the man said: "I trust that God will give me a sign that He will rescue me. I shall wait for the sign." Eventually, the flood waters rose up to the roof and the man drowned. When the man appeared before God, he complained: "Lord! Why didn't you give me a sign that you would rescue me?" God replied: "My dear son. I gave you 2 signs: the helicopter and the speed boat. Why didn't you recognise the signs?"
In today's Gospel, the scribes and Pharisees knew who Jesus was, but they were so stubborn and refused to admit who Jesus was, and still asked for a sign from Jesus. Jesus responded with harsh words: "It is an evil and unfaithful generation that asks for a sign!" When we are stubborn, obstinate, proud, conceited and egoistic, no matter how many signs are given to us, we would still refuse to accept the signs. May we come to realise our attitude and behaviour, and change our ways while we have opportunities to do so.
In today's Gospel, the scribes and Pharisees knew who Jesus was, but they were so stubborn and refused to admit who Jesus was, and still asked for a sign from Jesus. Jesus responded with harsh words: "It is an evil and unfaithful generation that asks for a sign!" When we are stubborn, obstinate, proud, conceited and egoistic, no matter how many signs are given to us, we would still refuse to accept the signs. May we come to realise our attitude and behaviour, and change our ways while we have opportunities to do so.
Tuesday, 26 January 2016
Thursday of Week 16 Year 2
We sometimes take for granted what God has done for us. We may have received many blessings and gifts from God, but how many of us are truly grateful or thankful to God for His providence? When times are good, some of us may even begin to think that all the blessings and gifts we received are from our own effort. But when times are bad, then only some of us may turn to God and beg for His help. Why do we behave in this way? Do we not realise where all our blessing and gifts are really coming from?
In today's reading, the Israelites had become too full of themselves, even to the point of forgetting God. The reading tells us: "The priests have never asked, "Where is the Lord?". Those who administer the Law have no knowledge of me. The shepherds have rebelled against me; the prophets have prophesied in the name of Baal, following the things with no power in them." Even though the Lord had brought His people out of slavery into a fertile country to enjoy its produce and good things, they took it all for granted and even abandoned and rebelled against God who provided for them. Because of this, the Israelites eventually lost all these gifts and blessings, and ended up in exile.
In a way, we too could be in the same situation as the Israelites, if we take for granted God's blessings and gifts. Let us never forget that what God has given is could be lost or taken away, and let us always be grateful and thankful for His generosity and bounty.
In today's reading, the Israelites had become too full of themselves, even to the point of forgetting God. The reading tells us: "The priests have never asked, "Where is the Lord?". Those who administer the Law have no knowledge of me. The shepherds have rebelled against me; the prophets have prophesied in the name of Baal, following the things with no power in them." Even though the Lord had brought His people out of slavery into a fertile country to enjoy its produce and good things, they took it all for granted and even abandoned and rebelled against God who provided for them. Because of this, the Israelites eventually lost all these gifts and blessings, and ended up in exile.
In a way, we too could be in the same situation as the Israelites, if we take for granted God's blessings and gifts. Let us never forget that what God has given is could be lost or taken away, and let us always be grateful and thankful for His generosity and bounty.
Wednesday of Week 16 Year 2
The world that we live in today is full of different kinds of noise and attractions. People are being enticed with pleasure, fame, recognition, wealth, and many other things. This causes some nations to experience a drop in vocation, as fewer people are answering God's call to the priesthood or religious life. When so many distractions persist, it is indeed difficult to listen and recognise God's call. Sometimes, a person may have heard the call, but the person may feel inadequate or not worthy of answering the call.
This is where today's reading assures us. In the reading, the prophet Jeremiah felt inadequate and said: "Ah, Lord; look, I do not know how to speak: I am a child!" But God assured him by responding: "Do not say, “I am a child.” Go now to those to whom I send you and, say whatever I command you. Do not be afraid of them, for I am with you to protect you – it is the Lord who speaks!" When you have God as your help and guide, there is no reason to feel inadequate or fearful, since God will take care of things. We just need to trust Him and let Him be our providence and strength. If God is calling you today, don't be afraid, since God does not call the qualified, but qualifies the called.
This is where today's reading assures us. In the reading, the prophet Jeremiah felt inadequate and said: "Ah, Lord; look, I do not know how to speak: I am a child!" But God assured him by responding: "Do not say, “I am a child.” Go now to those to whom I send you and, say whatever I command you. Do not be afraid of them, for I am with you to protect you – it is the Lord who speaks!" When you have God as your help and guide, there is no reason to feel inadequate or fearful, since God will take care of things. We just need to trust Him and let Him be our providence and strength. If God is calling you today, don't be afraid, since God does not call the qualified, but qualifies the called.
Monday, 25 January 2016
Tuesday of Week 16 Year 2
Some of us seem to think that "blood is thicker than water." What that means is family members are more important than others, and one should do all one can to bring happiness, peace and prosperity to one's immediate family. But what sort of attitude should us Christians have towards family? Of course we are reminded to honour our parents, as stipulated in the ten commandments. But is that all, or is there more to family?
In today's Gospel, Jesus shows us that there is more to family than what we think. To Jesus, being family means "Anyone who does the will of my Father in heaven, he is my brother and sister and mother." This means that as Christians, being a member of God's family means doing God's will. The question is, are we really doing God's will? Are we loving and serving others with humility, for the glory of God? May we remain as part of God's family, and help others to do the same.
In today's Gospel, Jesus shows us that there is more to family than what we think. To Jesus, being family means "Anyone who does the will of my Father in heaven, he is my brother and sister and mother." This means that as Christians, being a member of God's family means doing God's will. The question is, are we really doing God's will? Are we loving and serving others with humility, for the glory of God? May we remain as part of God's family, and help others to do the same.
Monday of Week 16 Year 2
We live in a world where more and more unjust deeds are being committed in different ways. For example, we see discrimination in different forms happening, where certain groups get certain privileges, just because they claim to be the original settlers of the land, but in actual fact they are not. In some situations, we see people loving for a reason, sometimes for selfish reasons or personal gain. Once they have gotten what they wanted, these people may not love the same way as before, or even run away to seek other ways to achieve their ambitions and goals. Also, we see some folks behaving as if they are the smartest, brightest, cleverest, or even richest. Some of such folks proudly flaunt their abilities and wealth, thinking that no one can measure up to them. Sometimes, such folks even put others down, to prevent others from becoming like them. Are some of us guilty of doing such deeds?
In today's reading, we are reminded: "What is good has been explained to you, man; this is what the Lord asks of you: only this, to act justly, to love tenderly and to walk humbly with your God." All our wealth and achievements are merely illusions, temporary things that come and go. But what matters most is whether we are in right relationship with God and with others, and whether we are prepared to meet the Lord. May we not be caught off-guard, and make more effort to grow closer to Him.
In today's reading, we are reminded: "What is good has been explained to you, man; this is what the Lord asks of you: only this, to act justly, to love tenderly and to walk humbly with your God." All our wealth and achievements are merely illusions, temporary things that come and go. But what matters most is whether we are in right relationship with God and with others, and whether we are prepared to meet the Lord. May we not be caught off-guard, and make more effort to grow closer to Him.
Wednesday, 1 July 2015
Housekeeping - Week 16 Year 2
For your easy reference, the following is a list of weeks and years with their corresponding date:
17 July 2016 - 16th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C
18 July 2016 - Monday of Week 16 Year 2
19 July 2016 - Tuesday of Week 16 Year 2
20 July 2016 - Wednesday of Week 16 Year 2
21 July 2016 - Thursday of Week 16 Year 2
22 July 2016 - St. Mary Magdalene, Memorial
17 July 2016 - 16th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C
18 July 2016 - Monday of Week 16 Year 2
19 July 2016 - Tuesday of Week 16 Year 2
20 July 2016 - Wednesday of Week 16 Year 2
21 July 2016 - Thursday of Week 16 Year 2
22 July 2016 - St. Mary Magdalene, Memorial
16th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C
Some of us seem to have the urge to do lots of things in church. Some seem to have the need to be involved in many different ministries, and help out in many different projects and activities, thinking that without their help or involvement, the ministry, project or activity may collapse or be less successful. But is being Christian only about doing, doing and doing?
In today's Gospel, we come across two sisters who had contrasting views about what doing and being is all about. Martha had been working very hard to make Jesus feel welcomed in her home. She's the sort of person who cannot sit down and must always be working because there is always someone to take care of or some task to be completed. She's doing her very best thinking that that her very best is what the Lord wants of her. But it's not what Martha can do that matters. What really matters is what Jesus can do for her. And this is what Mary had allowed Jesus to do. Mary sat at the feet of Jesus, which to some may seem to be useless and doing nothing. But she was actually allowing Jesus to be Jesus, as her Teacher, as her Guide, and as her Lord. Likewise, in the first reading, Abraham thought that he was extending hospitality to the three men, not knowing that God was in his midst. He thought that he was doing his guests a favour by being hospitable, but it would be his guest, God, who would be doing a favour for him. Abraham, who had been childless for so many years, would now have a child, a gift from God.
We sometimes forget that God invites us to participate in His work of salvation. Whatever our contribution, it is always still God’s work, not ours, and we should not be taking credit for all the people that we've helped, since God has chosen us as His instruments to help them. If we fail to recognise this, then we would be building our own kingdom rather than God's kingdom. This is why St. Paul in the second reading can speak with such hope and joy, because he realises that he is only a servant of God, and merely one small piece in that whole plan of God for the salvation of mankind. Ultimately, Paul knew that all that he had been doing is for the glory of God.
What about us? Are we still focused in only doing things for God, without spending time being with Him and listening to His promptings? Are we doing things to show how great, clever, capable or important we are, or have we learnt to give God the glory for all that we do? Let us always remember that we are not the master but merely servants, and that we are building God's kingdom, not our own.
In today's Gospel, we come across two sisters who had contrasting views about what doing and being is all about. Martha had been working very hard to make Jesus feel welcomed in her home. She's the sort of person who cannot sit down and must always be working because there is always someone to take care of or some task to be completed. She's doing her very best thinking that that her very best is what the Lord wants of her. But it's not what Martha can do that matters. What really matters is what Jesus can do for her. And this is what Mary had allowed Jesus to do. Mary sat at the feet of Jesus, which to some may seem to be useless and doing nothing. But she was actually allowing Jesus to be Jesus, as her Teacher, as her Guide, and as her Lord. Likewise, in the first reading, Abraham thought that he was extending hospitality to the three men, not knowing that God was in his midst. He thought that he was doing his guests a favour by being hospitable, but it would be his guest, God, who would be doing a favour for him. Abraham, who had been childless for so many years, would now have a child, a gift from God.
We sometimes forget that God invites us to participate in His work of salvation. Whatever our contribution, it is always still God’s work, not ours, and we should not be taking credit for all the people that we've helped, since God has chosen us as His instruments to help them. If we fail to recognise this, then we would be building our own kingdom rather than God's kingdom. This is why St. Paul in the second reading can speak with such hope and joy, because he realises that he is only a servant of God, and merely one small piece in that whole plan of God for the salvation of mankind. Ultimately, Paul knew that all that he had been doing is for the glory of God.
What about us? Are we still focused in only doing things for God, without spending time being with Him and listening to His promptings? Are we doing things to show how great, clever, capable or important we are, or have we learnt to give God the glory for all that we do? Let us always remember that we are not the master but merely servants, and that we are building God's kingdom, not our own.
Thursday, 2 April 2015
Friday of Week 16 Year 1
As children, we would have learnt about the ten commandments at some point of our lives at Religious Education or catechism classes. Our teachers may have come up with creative ways for us to try and remember the ten commandments by heart, and many of us would have been able to recite the ten commandments with ease after a while. But did we understand what we were reciting? Perhaps to some degree, but as we grew older, some of us may have begun to forget the ten commandments.
In today's reading, we are reminded once again of the ten commandments. Jesus summarised the ten commandments to two: love God and love neighbour. For many of us, loving God seems easier as we do not need to deal with Him directly face to face. But Jesus has also reminded us that we cannot love God if we do not love our neighbour. Loving our neighbour is certainly not easy, especially since we often encounter difficult people, or people who have hurt us or have been hurt by us, or people who seem so unlovable. But if we consider and ponder for a while, Jesus came and died on the cross for all of us and to save us from our sins. That is why we need to be constantly reminded of how we should live our lives by observing faithfully the ten commandments, which is basically the law of love. Are we able to put aside our pride, ego, self-centredness and selfish ways, and love all, God and neighbour alike, the way God loves us all?
In today's reading, we are reminded once again of the ten commandments. Jesus summarised the ten commandments to two: love God and love neighbour. For many of us, loving God seems easier as we do not need to deal with Him directly face to face. But Jesus has also reminded us that we cannot love God if we do not love our neighbour. Loving our neighbour is certainly not easy, especially since we often encounter difficult people, or people who have hurt us or have been hurt by us, or people who seem so unlovable. But if we consider and ponder for a while, Jesus came and died on the cross for all of us and to save us from our sins. That is why we need to be constantly reminded of how we should live our lives by observing faithfully the ten commandments, which is basically the law of love. Are we able to put aside our pride, ego, self-centredness and selfish ways, and love all, God and neighbour alike, the way God loves us all?
Wednesday, 1 April 2015
Thursday of Week 16 Year 1
Every once in a while, we come across people who call themselves Christians, but they live lives quite contrary to a Christian way of life. Some of these people seem to think that being a Christian merely means accepting Christ as a personal saviour, but beyond that, how they behave, how they conduct themselves, how they treat others, is irrelevant to them. They claim that once they have accepted Christ as a personal saviour, they can do as they please and behave as they like. But is this what being a Christian all about? Is it so simple as that?
Being a Christian basically means we are following the ways of Christ. This means that we must love God and love neighbour, not just to put on a show, but with genuineness and integrity. But when people begin to interpret Christianity according to their own ways and for their own covenience, then perhaps they may be like what Jesus said in today's Gospel concerning the prophecy of Isaiah: "You will listen and listen again, but not understand, see and see again, but not perceive. For the heart of this nation has grown coarse, their ears are dull of hearing, and they have shut their eyes, for fear they should see with their eyes, hear with their ears, understand with their heart, and be converted and be healed by me." If we are so stubbornly holding on to our views, beliefs and understanding of what we think Christianity is all about, then we may be missing the point of Christianity's true meaning, since our ears have become dull, our heart has grown coarse and our eyes are shut.
Today, if we realise and readily admit that we have gone off course as Christians, then let us come back to its true meaning. Let us not be afraid to see with our eyes, hear with our ears, and understand with our hearts, so that we could truly be healed by Christ and follow His ways faithfully.
Being a Christian basically means we are following the ways of Christ. This means that we must love God and love neighbour, not just to put on a show, but with genuineness and integrity. But when people begin to interpret Christianity according to their own ways and for their own covenience, then perhaps they may be like what Jesus said in today's Gospel concerning the prophecy of Isaiah: "You will listen and listen again, but not understand, see and see again, but not perceive. For the heart of this nation has grown coarse, their ears are dull of hearing, and they have shut their eyes, for fear they should see with their eyes, hear with their ears, understand with their heart, and be converted and be healed by me." If we are so stubbornly holding on to our views, beliefs and understanding of what we think Christianity is all about, then we may be missing the point of Christianity's true meaning, since our ears have become dull, our heart has grown coarse and our eyes are shut.
Today, if we realise and readily admit that we have gone off course as Christians, then let us come back to its true meaning. Let us not be afraid to see with our eyes, hear with our ears, and understand with our hearts, so that we could truly be healed by Christ and follow His ways faithfully.
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