Living a life as a Christian in today's world is certainly not easy. There are things in the world which may cause us to commit sin or despicable acts, but such things in the world is considered normal or part of so called "life" according to the ways of the world. For example, in some countries, abortion has been made acceptable or even legal, and those against abortion or are pro-life could be persecuted or even assaulted. Also, some countries have even permitted mercy killing or euthanasia, even though Christian teaching clearly prohibits such acts. So if we as Christians are in organisations that promote or even conduct such acts, either directly or indirectly, which clearly goes against our Christian faith, what would we do? Would we close our eyes and pretend that such acts is not our problem, and we content ourselves into thinking that we are merely doing our job to make a living, or would we go against such practices, even to the extent of losing our jobs to uphold Christian principles?
In today's gospel, Jesus warns us when He said: 'If the world hates you, remember that it hated me before you. If you belonged to the world, the world would love you as its own; but because you do not belong to the world, because my choice withdrew you from the world, therefore the world hates you.' What does Jesus mean when he says “the world?” The "world" refers to that society of people who are hostile towards God and opposes His will. When Jesus talks of persecutions, He refers to the sufferings and persecutions His disciples, in proclaiming His teachings, would undergo at the hands of such persons in society. Jesus leaves no middle ground for His disciples. We are either for Him or against Him, for His kingdom of light or for the kingdom of darkness.
What about us? It seems convenient and easy when things are fine. But when we have a choice of either following the ways of God, or the ways of the world, and we have no middle ground or option, which would we choose? Are we prepared to choose God's ways each and every time, consistently, wholeheartedly and be willing to face the possibility of persecution or even being put to death?
Showing posts with label Easter 5. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Easter 5. Show all posts
Thursday, 21 February 2019
Monday, 11 February 2019
Saturday of the 5th Week of Easter
One reality about being in mission is that we cannot choose where we want to go or where we want to serve. Ultimately, we are sent according to where the church wants us to serve, where the church finds an urgent or important need, not where we think is urgent or important. This is necessary, since at the end of the day, we are being sent to preach the Good News, and not for our comfort or convenience. Also, our being in mission means we can be taken out of a certain place at any time, and sent elsewhere. This means we need to be prepared to move on, and not be too attached to certain places or persons.
In today's reading, Paul and Barnabas "travelled through Phrygia and the Galatian country, having been told by the Holy Spirit not to preach the word in Asia. When they reached the frontier of Mysia they thought to cross it into Bithynia, but as the Spirit of Jesus would not allow them, they went through Mysia and came down to Troas. One night Paul had a vision: a Macedonian appeared and appealed to him in these words, ‘Come across to Macedonia and help us.’ Once he had seen this vision we lost no time in arranging a passage to Macedonia, convinced that God had called us to bring them the Good News."
From the reading, we see how Paul and Barnabas were told where they were to go, not where they would like to go. Also, the reading shows us how Paul and Barnabas was sent, uprooted, and then sent elsewhere, and they did it without losing any time, instead of grumbling or dragging their feet. This shows us that, when it comes to mission, we should be ready and prepared to do God's will. May we go forth happily and obediently to preach the Good News wherever we are needed, and give glory to God in all our efforts.
In today's reading, Paul and Barnabas "travelled through Phrygia and the Galatian country, having been told by the Holy Spirit not to preach the word in Asia. When they reached the frontier of Mysia they thought to cross it into Bithynia, but as the Spirit of Jesus would not allow them, they went through Mysia and came down to Troas. One night Paul had a vision: a Macedonian appeared and appealed to him in these words, ‘Come across to Macedonia and help us.’ Once he had seen this vision we lost no time in arranging a passage to Macedonia, convinced that God had called us to bring them the Good News."
From the reading, we see how Paul and Barnabas were told where they were to go, not where they would like to go. Also, the reading shows us how Paul and Barnabas was sent, uprooted, and then sent elsewhere, and they did it without losing any time, instead of grumbling or dragging their feet. This shows us that, when it comes to mission, we should be ready and prepared to do God's will. May we go forth happily and obediently to preach the Good News wherever we are needed, and give glory to God in all our efforts.
Friday, 9 March 2018
Saturday of the 5th Week of Easter
Some of us find it difficult to let go of control. We want to be in charge of our destiny and to build our lives according to certain ideals which we may have, some of which may have been influenced by our family, friends, peers and society. However, as followers of Christ, we cannot always have control, especially when it comes to where we are supposed to serve. This is because we are to serve where the Holy Spirit leads us, where we are most needed, not where we would be comfortable in, or where it would be convenient to us.
In today's reading, we are told that Paul and Barnabas "travelled through Phrygia and the Galatian country, having been told by the Holy Spirit not to preach the word in Asia. When they reached the frontier of Mysia they thought to cross it into Bithynia, but as the Spirit of Jesus would not allow them, they went through Mysia and came down to Troas. One night Paul had a vision: a Macedonian appeared and appealed to him in these words, ‘Come across to Macedonia and help us.’ Once he had seen this vision we lost no time in arranging a passage to Macedonia, convinced that God had called us to bring them the Good News."
As we can see from the reading, Paul and Barnabas had no control over where they were being told to preach, and that they had to change course according to the promptings of the Holy Spirit. Yet, Paul and Barnabas were willing to be humble, docile and obedient, going where they were told to go, and not according to where they pleased.
What about us? Would we be willing to let go of control and let God lead us? Would we be willing to listen to God's promptings and do His will, not ours? May we, like Paul and Barnabas, be docile and humble enough to go where we are told, so that we could be used as His instruments to bring the Good News to others, and to glorify Him.
In today's reading, we are told that Paul and Barnabas "travelled through Phrygia and the Galatian country, having been told by the Holy Spirit not to preach the word in Asia. When they reached the frontier of Mysia they thought to cross it into Bithynia, but as the Spirit of Jesus would not allow them, they went through Mysia and came down to Troas. One night Paul had a vision: a Macedonian appeared and appealed to him in these words, ‘Come across to Macedonia and help us.’ Once he had seen this vision we lost no time in arranging a passage to Macedonia, convinced that God had called us to bring them the Good News."
As we can see from the reading, Paul and Barnabas had no control over where they were being told to preach, and that they had to change course according to the promptings of the Holy Spirit. Yet, Paul and Barnabas were willing to be humble, docile and obedient, going where they were told to go, and not according to where they pleased.
What about us? Would we be willing to let go of control and let God lead us? Would we be willing to listen to God's promptings and do His will, not ours? May we, like Paul and Barnabas, be docile and humble enough to go where we are told, so that we could be used as His instruments to bring the Good News to others, and to glorify Him.
Sunday, 27 March 2016
Monday of the 5th Week of Easter
It is interesting to observe how some so called preachers behave or act when they claim to be able to heal others in the name of Jesus. Such persons tend to hold huge rallies, inviting many people to come and supposingly be healed. But when one looks at the way some of these preachers behave, it seems like their intention of holding such healing rallies is to boost their ego and increase the number of followers, as well as to increase their wealth and influence. Would such preachers take the trouble and effort to heal the poor, the marginalised, or even the sick in various places which some may think to be lowly or undesirable, instead of holding such big rallies, with possibly hidden intentions? Would such preachers heal at any place, time, or situation, without expecting anything in return?
In today's reading, Paul and Barnabas healed a crippled man. The crippled man was healed not because Paul and Barnabas are gods or some powerful being, but because they saw that the man had the faith to be healed. Paul and Barnabas could have basked in the glory of what they had accomplished through the healing and taken credit for it, but instead, they "tore their clothes, and rushed into the crowd, shouting, 'Friends, what do you think you are doing? We are only human beings like you. We have come with good news to make you turn from these empty idols to the living God who made heaven and earth and the sea and all that these hold.'"
What does this mean to us? It means that, like Paul and Barnabas, the ability to heal is not for us to boost our pride or ego. It is meant for us to be used for the glory of God. If we have the gift of healing, may we used such gifts to build God's Kingdom, and be of loving service to all.
In today's reading, Paul and Barnabas healed a crippled man. The crippled man was healed not because Paul and Barnabas are gods or some powerful being, but because they saw that the man had the faith to be healed. Paul and Barnabas could have basked in the glory of what they had accomplished through the healing and taken credit for it, but instead, they "tore their clothes, and rushed into the crowd, shouting, 'Friends, what do you think you are doing? We are only human beings like you. We have come with good news to make you turn from these empty idols to the living God who made heaven and earth and the sea and all that these hold.'"
What does this mean to us? It means that, like Paul and Barnabas, the ability to heal is not for us to boost our pride or ego. It is meant for us to be used for the glory of God. If we have the gift of healing, may we used such gifts to build God's Kingdom, and be of loving service to all.
Tuesday, 29 December 2015
Friday of the 5th Week of Easter
What sort of love do we have towards others? Do we love only because it is advantageous to us or convenient to us? Do we love because the other person loves us? Do we love because the other person is nice to us or good to us? Do we love because of some other reason? Or could we ever love without needing a reason, that is, unconditionally, with no strings attached?
Perhaps the greatest kind of love we could manifest is mentioned in the Gospel: "A man can have no greater love than to lay down his life for his friends." Just as Jesus laid down His life to save us from our sins, we too are asked to do the same. Jesus loved us, and so we too are asked to love others, even to the point of losing our life. Are we willing to follow Jesus' example in truly and genuinely loving, without counting the costs?
Today, the world is infested with a kind of love that is conditional, a love which is selfish, a "what's in it for me" kind of love. May we free ourselves from such kinds of love, and follow Jesus' example in loving others completely, just as He showed us how to on the cross.
Perhaps the greatest kind of love we could manifest is mentioned in the Gospel: "A man can have no greater love than to lay down his life for his friends." Just as Jesus laid down His life to save us from our sins, we too are asked to do the same. Jesus loved us, and so we too are asked to love others, even to the point of losing our life. Are we willing to follow Jesus' example in truly and genuinely loving, without counting the costs?
Today, the world is infested with a kind of love that is conditional, a love which is selfish, a "what's in it for me" kind of love. May we free ourselves from such kinds of love, and follow Jesus' example in loving others completely, just as He showed us how to on the cross.
Monday, 28 December 2015
Thursday of the 5th Week of Easter
What sort of joy are we looking for in this world? Are we looking for joy which is only temporary? Or are we looking for joy that is complete? Some of you may be thinking: "Of course we would want complete joy." But how do we get complete joy in this world, when we are constantly bombarded with new things or the latest things? For example, some of us may have bought a computer, and initially we are happy with our purchase, but our happiness is short-lived, since a new model or a much more powerful model could have been released shortly after we had bought the computer. Then what happens? Some of us may feel frustrated, since we had purchased too quickly, without waiting for the newer model to emerge. Can we ever attain complete joy from what this world has to offer?
In today's Gospel, Jesus said to his disciples: "Remain in my love. If you keep my commandments
you will remain in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commandments and remain in his love. I have told you this so that my own joy may be in you and your joy be complete." Isn't it clear that the joy we experience in this world is only temporary? After a while, we would need to find other ways and means to remain joyful. In fact, we may never attain complete joy. However, Jesus is offering a kind of joy which is complete. We can receive this joy which He offers us if we keep God's commandments and remain in His love.
Some of us may say: "But keeping God's commandments is hard! How is it possible for us to do so?" It is a question of trust and dependence on God. If we put our trust and dependence in God, and let Him guide our lives; if we are willing to be detached from worldly attractions and pleasures; if we are willing to truly love God and neighbour, with no strings attached, with no conditions; then perhaps we would be able to remain in Jesus' love and experience complete joy.
In today's Gospel, Jesus said to his disciples: "Remain in my love. If you keep my commandments
you will remain in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commandments and remain in his love. I have told you this so that my own joy may be in you and your joy be complete." Isn't it clear that the joy we experience in this world is only temporary? After a while, we would need to find other ways and means to remain joyful. In fact, we may never attain complete joy. However, Jesus is offering a kind of joy which is complete. We can receive this joy which He offers us if we keep God's commandments and remain in His love.
Some of us may say: "But keeping God's commandments is hard! How is it possible for us to do so?" It is a question of trust and dependence on God. If we put our trust and dependence in God, and let Him guide our lives; if we are willing to be detached from worldly attractions and pleasures; if we are willing to truly love God and neighbour, with no strings attached, with no conditions; then perhaps we would be able to remain in Jesus' love and experience complete joy.
Wednesday of the 5th Week of Easter
When we go to a country for work or studies or some other purpose, we are sometimes advised to follow some of the customs and practices of that country. We may have heard of the saying: "Do as the Romans do." Even though we follow some of such customs and practices, we may not necessarily follow all of them, since some of these customs and practices are peculiar to a certain ethnic group, and has nothing to do with the general public of that country.
In today's reading, we come across some conflict, because certain members of the Pharisees' party who had become believers objected, insisting that the pagans should be circumcised (in other words, "kena potong") and instructed to keep the Law of Moses. Such a custom or practice was peculiar to the Jews, as it was handed down to them from their forefathers. But is such a custom or practice relevant to others, those who are not Jews? Should Christians be subjected to such a custom, which Jesus did not impose or insist upon in His teaching or way of life? Of course not, and later in another part of the reading, we would understand why. This is where we need to be clear about what is actual teaching of faith, and what are practices which appear to be common among Christians of a certain ethnic group, but not common among Christians as a whole. We need to be clear, since although matters of faith and morals are non-negotiable, matters concerning practices and customs can and will differ from place to place. May we discern carefully and know which is which.
In today's reading, we come across some conflict, because certain members of the Pharisees' party who had become believers objected, insisting that the pagans should be circumcised (in other words, "kena potong") and instructed to keep the Law of Moses. Such a custom or practice was peculiar to the Jews, as it was handed down to them from their forefathers. But is such a custom or practice relevant to others, those who are not Jews? Should Christians be subjected to such a custom, which Jesus did not impose or insist upon in His teaching or way of life? Of course not, and later in another part of the reading, we would understand why. This is where we need to be clear about what is actual teaching of faith, and what are practices which appear to be common among Christians of a certain ethnic group, but not common among Christians as a whole. We need to be clear, since although matters of faith and morals are non-negotiable, matters concerning practices and customs can and will differ from place to place. May we discern carefully and know which is which.
Tuesday of the 5th Week of Easter
No matter how challenging of difficult your day has been, when you enter a church to pray or to gaze at the tabernacle containing the Blessed Sacrament, how do you feel? Quite likely you would calm down and feel some peace, isn't it? When you hear a lovely hymn being sung or played from a CD, you would feel some peace right? When you are gazing at the crucifix at home or at the big crucifix in church, or gaze at a holy picture of Jesus, Mary, the Holy Family, or one of your favourite saint, you would also feel some peace right? Notice what is happening? You are experiencing a sense of security and peace, as you know that God is with you.
In today's Gospel, Jesus gives us a message of peace and hope. He tells us: "Peace I bequeath to you, my own peace I give you, a peace the world cannot give, this is my gift to you. Do not let your hearts be troubled or afraid." When we have God with us, when we have Jesus as our guide, then there is no reason to fret, worry or fear. No matter how difficult the circumstances may be, no matter how tough life is treating you, no matter how painful the persecution you may be experiencing, just remember this: God gives us peace, the kind of peace which is sufficient for us. Let us not feel downtrodden or even despair, since God is there to protect us and guide us to our true home.
In today's Gospel, Jesus gives us a message of peace and hope. He tells us: "Peace I bequeath to you, my own peace I give you, a peace the world cannot give, this is my gift to you. Do not let your hearts be troubled or afraid." When we have God with us, when we have Jesus as our guide, then there is no reason to fret, worry or fear. No matter how difficult the circumstances may be, no matter how tough life is treating you, no matter how painful the persecution you may be experiencing, just remember this: God gives us peace, the kind of peace which is sufficient for us. Let us not feel downtrodden or even despair, since God is there to protect us and guide us to our true home.
Tuesday, 9 June 2015
5th Sunday of Easter Year C
Most of us would be quite familiar with the Synoptic Gospels, that is, the Gospel of Matthew, Mark and Luke. One common theme which could be found among these Gospels is the theme of 'love', where the Gospel writers repeat the key teaching of the Old Testament covenant that is to love God and love our neighbour as ourselves. The key point made here is that our love for neighbour must be similar to our love for ourselves. On the other hand, today's Gospel is from the Gospel of John, and we are told: "I give you a new commandment: love one another; just as I have loved you, you must also love one another." Many of us are familiar with God's commandment to love, so what is so 'new' about this commandment as stated in the Gospel of John?
The 'newness' stems from the fact that our love for one another is not based on the criteria that we love ourselves: "love our neighbour as ourselves", but the criteria is now that Jesus loves us: "just as I (Jesus) have loved you, you must also love one another." Our 'love' for ourselves is often inadequate and incomplete, and no longer becomes a standard by which we love others, but Jesus' love for us is what enables us to love. This is because God's love is perfect, since God is love.
If we are to be Jesus' disciples, then we must learn to love the way He loves us. We need to show our love through our words and deeds, taking Jesus' love as our guide and standard. When we do so, then as the Gospel tells us: "By this love you have for one another, everyone will know that you are my disciples." But we realise that Jesus' love is a high standard which is not so simple to attain as it sounds, because we are not God. That is why we must continue to support, encourage and pray for each other, following the example of Paul and Barnabas in the first reading where "They put fresh heart into the disciples, encouraging them to persevere in the faith."
Today, let us pray that we will have the strength, patience, perseverance and courage to love one another as Christ loved us. Love is not a sign of weakness or defeat. It is an act of courage that rejects a culture of hatred, pride and prejudice prevalent in the world today. May we take Christ as our example and learn more and more to be like Him in His love for all of us.
The 'newness' stems from the fact that our love for one another is not based on the criteria that we love ourselves: "love our neighbour as ourselves", but the criteria is now that Jesus loves us: "just as I (Jesus) have loved you, you must also love one another." Our 'love' for ourselves is often inadequate and incomplete, and no longer becomes a standard by which we love others, but Jesus' love for us is what enables us to love. This is because God's love is perfect, since God is love.
If we are to be Jesus' disciples, then we must learn to love the way He loves us. We need to show our love through our words and deeds, taking Jesus' love as our guide and standard. When we do so, then as the Gospel tells us: "By this love you have for one another, everyone will know that you are my disciples." But we realise that Jesus' love is a high standard which is not so simple to attain as it sounds, because we are not God. That is why we must continue to support, encourage and pray for each other, following the example of Paul and Barnabas in the first reading where "They put fresh heart into the disciples, encouraging them to persevere in the faith."
Today, let us pray that we will have the strength, patience, perseverance and courage to love one another as Christ loved us. Love is not a sign of weakness or defeat. It is an act of courage that rejects a culture of hatred, pride and prejudice prevalent in the world today. May we take Christ as our example and learn more and more to be like Him in His love for all of us.
Saturday, 14 February 2015
Friday of the 5th Week of Easter
How encouraging have we been to others around us? Have we noticed people around us who seem to be down in the doldrums, or they seem depressed or sad, or they seem to be keeping to themselves quite a bit? There are many reasons why people are in such a state, but do we notice them at all? Or have we become so busy with our activities or with ourselves that such people end up being ignored, forgotten or set aside?
In today's reading, we are told: "The apostles and elders decided to choose delegates to send to Antioch with Paul and Barnabas; the whole church concurred with this. They chose Judas known as Barsabbas and Silas, both leading men in the brotherhood, and gave them this letter to take with them... The party left and went down to Antioch, where they summoned the whole community and delivered the letter. The community read it and were delighted with the encouragement it gave them." Notice that in the reading, the apostles and elders did not just write a letter to encourage the community at Antioch, they also sent delegates to be present and give encouragement and support. It is easy to just write a letter or a few words of encouragement, but what matters more is when we offer our presence to others and give them our support as best we can. Perhaps we could make more effort to be mindful of people who need encouragement around us, and help strengthen these people with our support and presence.
In today's reading, we are told: "The apostles and elders decided to choose delegates to send to Antioch with Paul and Barnabas; the whole church concurred with this. They chose Judas known as Barsabbas and Silas, both leading men in the brotherhood, and gave them this letter to take with them... The party left and went down to Antioch, where they summoned the whole community and delivered the letter. The community read it and were delighted with the encouragement it gave them." Notice that in the reading, the apostles and elders did not just write a letter to encourage the community at Antioch, they also sent delegates to be present and give encouragement and support. It is easy to just write a letter or a few words of encouragement, but what matters more is when we offer our presence to others and give them our support as best we can. Perhaps we could make more effort to be mindful of people who need encouragement around us, and help strengthen these people with our support and presence.
Thursday of the 5th Week of Easter
Meetings and discussions can sometimes turn out to be quite a frustrating activity. This is especially so when people begin to talk and argue over a topic which is essentially not a big deal. At times, such meetings and discussions could turn out to be quite a rowdy affair, especially when people begin to lose their cool and start behaving like only their opinion or point of view matters. In the midst of all these monkeying around, with some clashes of the gong and thundering voices here and there, we need someone to snap us out of our "temporary insanity" and get us back on our true purpose. That someone is what we call a moderator.
In today's reading, we have Peter who ended up being the moderator. The apostles and elders had been discussing about an issue which so incensed and consumed them (they were Jews and it was part of their upbringing). What was the issue all about? It was about whether the gentile Christians should be circumcised as part of the "salvation package," so to speak. Peter finally had had enough and he told all present: "In fact God, who can read everyone’s heart, showed his approval of them by giving the Holy Spirit to them just as he had to us. God made no distinction between them and us, since he purified their hearts by faith. It would only provoke God’s anger now, surely, if you imposed on the disciples the very burden that neither we nor our ancestors were strong enough to support? Remember, we believe that we are saved in the same way as they are: through the grace of the Lord Jesus." After Peter had said this, there was silence. You could almost hear a pin drop (if there was one at that time). It was clear to all present that they had been arguing about something which was really not big deal.
Then, to further strengthen Peter's argument, James added: "I rule, then, that instead of making things more difficult for pagans who turn to God, we send them a letter telling them merely to abstain from anything polluted by idols, from fornication, from the meat of strangled animals and from blood. For Moses has always had his preachers in every town, and is read aloud in the synagogues every sabbath." Wonderful! Case closed.
Just like the apostles and elders, we too sometimes end up arguing over the smallest matters concerning our faith, and we forget the bigger picture and the more important issues that we should be addressing instead. Let us learn from this dramatic episode and open our eyes, ears and hearts, so that we could learn to love and serve others better, while giving glory to God.
In today's reading, we have Peter who ended up being the moderator. The apostles and elders had been discussing about an issue which so incensed and consumed them (they were Jews and it was part of their upbringing). What was the issue all about? It was about whether the gentile Christians should be circumcised as part of the "salvation package," so to speak. Peter finally had had enough and he told all present: "In fact God, who can read everyone’s heart, showed his approval of them by giving the Holy Spirit to them just as he had to us. God made no distinction between them and us, since he purified their hearts by faith. It would only provoke God’s anger now, surely, if you imposed on the disciples the very burden that neither we nor our ancestors were strong enough to support? Remember, we believe that we are saved in the same way as they are: through the grace of the Lord Jesus." After Peter had said this, there was silence. You could almost hear a pin drop (if there was one at that time). It was clear to all present that they had been arguing about something which was really not big deal.
Then, to further strengthen Peter's argument, James added: "I rule, then, that instead of making things more difficult for pagans who turn to God, we send them a letter telling them merely to abstain from anything polluted by idols, from fornication, from the meat of strangled animals and from blood. For Moses has always had his preachers in every town, and is read aloud in the synagogues every sabbath." Wonderful! Case closed.
Just like the apostles and elders, we too sometimes end up arguing over the smallest matters concerning our faith, and we forget the bigger picture and the more important issues that we should be addressing instead. Let us learn from this dramatic episode and open our eyes, ears and hearts, so that we could learn to love and serve others better, while giving glory to God.
Wednesday of the 5th Week of Easter
A leaf cannot survive on its own. It needs to be part of a shrub or a tree so that it can grow and prosper. When a leaf falls from the shrub or the tree, what happens? It slowly dies and eventually it becomes compost or fertiliser for other plants. It could also end up as food for insects and animals. In some cases, the leaf could end up as part of a nest or part of shelter for insects and animals. Whatever the outcome may be, the leaf is dead, finito.
In today's Gospel, Jesus reminds us: "As a branch cannot bear fruit all by itself, but must remain part of the vine, neither can you unless you remain in me. I am the vine, you are the branches. Whoever remains in me, with me in him, bears fruit in plenty; for cut off from me you can do nothing. Anyone who does not remain in me is like a branch that has been thrown away – he withers; these branches are collected and thrown on the fire, and they are burnt." Just as a leaf cannot live and prosper for long if it is cut off from the shrub or tree, we too will not be able to live and prosper for long if we are are cut off from Jesus.
That is why Jesus is inviting us, beckoning us to "make your home in me, as I make mine in you." When we do so, we would then be able to live and prosper, and bear fruit in plenty. When we allow ourselves to be pruned by Jesus, when we make effort to seek forgiveness for the sins we have committed and do our best to avoid sinning, we would bear even more fruit. Ultimately, we have a choice: to be happy, grow and prosper in Jesus; or to go our own way and bear the consequences. Let us choose wisely, for our eternal future is at stake.
In today's Gospel, Jesus reminds us: "As a branch cannot bear fruit all by itself, but must remain part of the vine, neither can you unless you remain in me. I am the vine, you are the branches. Whoever remains in me, with me in him, bears fruit in plenty; for cut off from me you can do nothing. Anyone who does not remain in me is like a branch that has been thrown away – he withers; these branches are collected and thrown on the fire, and they are burnt." Just as a leaf cannot live and prosper for long if it is cut off from the shrub or tree, we too will not be able to live and prosper for long if we are are cut off from Jesus.
That is why Jesus is inviting us, beckoning us to "make your home in me, as I make mine in you." When we do so, we would then be able to live and prosper, and bear fruit in plenty. When we allow ourselves to be pruned by Jesus, when we make effort to seek forgiveness for the sins we have committed and do our best to avoid sinning, we would bear even more fruit. Ultimately, we have a choice: to be happy, grow and prosper in Jesus; or to go our own way and bear the consequences. Let us choose wisely, for our eternal future is at stake.
Friday, 13 February 2015
Tuesday of the 5th Week of Easter
We live in a world full of uncertainty. Sometimes what may seem to be a peaceful, prosperous, or happy situation could change at the blink of an eye. Extremism, terrorism and other forms of violence, suppression and persecution could just appear all of a sudden, bringing misery, suffering and even death to many. We have seen how people who were once allies or friends have turned on each other for the smallest reasons. Considering what is happening around us, how would we respond? What should we do as Christians?
In today's Gospel, Jesus gives us a message of hope. He tells us: "Peace I bequeath to you, my own peace I give you, a peace the world cannot give, this is my gift to you. Do not let your hearts be troubled or afraid." When we have the peace of Christ in our hearts, nothing should shake us or distract us from doing the will of God. No matter how hopeless or challenging the situation may be, the peace that Jesus embeds in our hearts will help us ride the storm. This same message of peace is also for us to encourage others and help them experience and promote such peace in their own way. As Christians, we know that God will not abandon us to an uncertain fate, so we should also help others take courage and be confident that God and goodness will always triumph in the end.
In today's Gospel, Jesus gives us a message of hope. He tells us: "Peace I bequeath to you, my own peace I give you, a peace the world cannot give, this is my gift to you. Do not let your hearts be troubled or afraid." When we have the peace of Christ in our hearts, nothing should shake us or distract us from doing the will of God. No matter how hopeless or challenging the situation may be, the peace that Jesus embeds in our hearts will help us ride the storm. This same message of peace is also for us to encourage others and help them experience and promote such peace in their own way. As Christians, we know that God will not abandon us to an uncertain fate, so we should also help others take courage and be confident that God and goodness will always triumph in the end.
Monday of the 5th Week of Easter
Many of us are gifted with certain talents or capabilities which make us unique and different. Some of us are good at academic pursuits, some are good at art, some are good at music, some are good at using their hands to make or fix things, some are good at singing or dancing; but whatever it is we are good at, are we thankful for such talents God has given us? Do we glorify God when we use such talents or capabilities? Or are we using such talents or capabilities to boost our ego and pride?
In today's reading, Paul healed a man who was crippled from birth. The reading tells us: "When the crowd saw what Paul had done they shouted in the language of Lycaonia, 'These people are gods who have come down to us disguised as men.' They addressed Barnabas as Zeus, and since Paul was the principal speaker they called him Hermes. The priests of Zeus-outside-the-Gate, proposing that all the people should offer sacrifice with them, brought garlanded oxen to the gates." Of course, Paul had healed the man with the help of God, but the crowd did not know about this and thought that Paul had some sort of divine power in him. Paul and Barnabas could have basked in the glory of what they had accomplished through the healing and taken credit for it, but instead, they "tore their clothes, and rushed into the crowd, shouting, 'Friends, what do you think you are doing? We are only human beings like you. We have come with good news to make you turn from these empty idols to the living God who made heaven and earth and the sea and all that these hold.'"
When we look at the kind of attitude Paul and Barnabas had, we can learn that though we have certain capabilities or talents, such capabilities or talents are meant to be used to give glory to God. In some ways, the capabilities and talents we have could also be used to preach the Good News. Are we using our capabilities and talents for such purposes?
In today's reading, Paul healed a man who was crippled from birth. The reading tells us: "When the crowd saw what Paul had done they shouted in the language of Lycaonia, 'These people are gods who have come down to us disguised as men.' They addressed Barnabas as Zeus, and since Paul was the principal speaker they called him Hermes. The priests of Zeus-outside-the-Gate, proposing that all the people should offer sacrifice with them, brought garlanded oxen to the gates." Of course, Paul had healed the man with the help of God, but the crowd did not know about this and thought that Paul had some sort of divine power in him. Paul and Barnabas could have basked in the glory of what they had accomplished through the healing and taken credit for it, but instead, they "tore their clothes, and rushed into the crowd, shouting, 'Friends, what do you think you are doing? We are only human beings like you. We have come with good news to make you turn from these empty idols to the living God who made heaven and earth and the sea and all that these hold.'"
When we look at the kind of attitude Paul and Barnabas had, we can learn that though we have certain capabilities or talents, such capabilities or talents are meant to be used to give glory to God. In some ways, the capabilities and talents we have could also be used to preach the Good News. Are we using our capabilities and talents for such purposes?
5th Sunday of Easter Year B
What do we mean when we say we love? Do we really love others? Do we love our brothers and sisters? Do we show our Christian faith by living a life of love in our families, BEC, community, housing area, and at church? Besides people in our Christian community, do we also show love towards others who are not Christians? It is easy to say we love, but do we mean what we say by our actions, or are our words nothing more than mere words? St. John in today’s second reading reminds us: “Our love is not to be just words or mere talk, but something real and active."
Yet we cannot genuinely and truly love others unless we are rooted in Christ. Today's gospel reminds us that Christ is the Vine and we are the branches, and “whoever remains in me, with me in him, bears fruit in plenty; for cut off from me you can do nothing.” It would be not possible for us to love unconditionally, genuinely and wholesomely on our own, since we can only love in such ways if we are rooted in God's love.
There are some who think that they can love without God, but more often than not, such love would merely be an ineffective or inadequate attempt. We come across friendships, relationships and marriages that end up failing or breaking down because of the absence of God in our love and in our lives. This is because the kind of love that we humanly profess is imperfect, we love because we expect to receive love or something else in return. Genuine love is when we are able to love totally, without expecting anything in return. Could we ever accomplish such genuine love on our own? No. Only God is able to love totally, and we can only love the way God loves us when we are connected and rooted to Him.
Love does not mean we will be living in some sort of utopia or some fantasy place, where there is no conflict or problems. Love does not mean that others will like us or appreciate our love. Take for example St. Paul in today's first reading. In the first reading, Paul, then known as Saul, went around with the disciples, "preaching fearlessly in the name of the Lord." Not everyone was happy with him and some even tried to kill him, but because he was rooted in Christ and had experienced God's love, he was willing to endure challenges and hardships to bring the Good News of God's love to all. Love does not mean we must become popular, rather it means we must do what is right, what is true, what is just, and what is loving, even if it means we would become unpopular or not liked.
Today, some of us may be experiencing difficulties and trials as we try to show our love towards others. But as Jesus reminds us: "every branch that does bear fruit he prunes to make it bear even more." We are being pruned, so that we will grow and remain closer to Jesus. In this way, we would become stronger and be better witnesses of God's love to all.
Yet we cannot genuinely and truly love others unless we are rooted in Christ. Today's gospel reminds us that Christ is the Vine and we are the branches, and “whoever remains in me, with me in him, bears fruit in plenty; for cut off from me you can do nothing.” It would be not possible for us to love unconditionally, genuinely and wholesomely on our own, since we can only love in such ways if we are rooted in God's love.
There are some who think that they can love without God, but more often than not, such love would merely be an ineffective or inadequate attempt. We come across friendships, relationships and marriages that end up failing or breaking down because of the absence of God in our love and in our lives. This is because the kind of love that we humanly profess is imperfect, we love because we expect to receive love or something else in return. Genuine love is when we are able to love totally, without expecting anything in return. Could we ever accomplish such genuine love on our own? No. Only God is able to love totally, and we can only love the way God loves us when we are connected and rooted to Him.
Love does not mean we will be living in some sort of utopia or some fantasy place, where there is no conflict or problems. Love does not mean that others will like us or appreciate our love. Take for example St. Paul in today's first reading. In the first reading, Paul, then known as Saul, went around with the disciples, "preaching fearlessly in the name of the Lord." Not everyone was happy with him and some even tried to kill him, but because he was rooted in Christ and had experienced God's love, he was willing to endure challenges and hardships to bring the Good News of God's love to all. Love does not mean we must become popular, rather it means we must do what is right, what is true, what is just, and what is loving, even if it means we would become unpopular or not liked.
Today, some of us may be experiencing difficulties and trials as we try to show our love towards others. But as Jesus reminds us: "every branch that does bear fruit he prunes to make it bear even more." We are being pruned, so that we will grow and remain closer to Jesus. In this way, we would become stronger and be better witnesses of God's love to all.
Friday, 18 April 2014
Friday of the 5th Week of Easter
Do we truly and really love? Or do we merely "like" or "enjoy" under the appearance of love? Sometimes we come across people who genuinely love others and just as today's Gospel tells us, they would even be willing to "lay down his life for his friends." Other times, we come across individuals who love because it is convenient or advantageous to them, or provides self-gratification, but deep down in their hearts there is no love. What about you? Where do you stand?
In today's Gospel, Jesus tells us that we are His friends if we do what He commands us. What did He command us to do? Jesus tells us in the Gospel: "What I command you is to love one another." Moreover, Jesus has chosen us; and commissioned us to go out and to bear fruit, fruit that will last. Are we loving others and sharing Jesus' love with others, just as Jesus loves us? Or are we hoarding love only for ourselves? Is our love genuine? Or has our love become more and more selfish or self-centred? We may appear to be able to hide our true intentions or true self, but we cannot run away from the "fruit" of our "love."
In today's Gospel, Jesus tells us that we are His friends if we do what He commands us. What did He command us to do? Jesus tells us in the Gospel: "What I command you is to love one another." Moreover, Jesus has chosen us; and commissioned us to go out and to bear fruit, fruit that will last. Are we loving others and sharing Jesus' love with others, just as Jesus loves us? Or are we hoarding love only for ourselves? Is our love genuine? Or has our love become more and more selfish or self-centred? We may appear to be able to hide our true intentions or true self, but we cannot run away from the "fruit" of our "love."
Thursday, 17 April 2014
Thursday of the 5th Week of Easter
Being a Christian in this world is not easy. On the one hand, we want to succeed and prosper. On the other hand, we are reminded time and time again to keep God's commandments. Sometimes the things we are asked to perform in the world may be in conflict with God's commandments. If we choose to perform the task, we would be breaking a commandment of God. If we choose not to perform the task, we may lose our status, our popularity, our financial security, our prosperity, and even our lives. If faced with such a situation, what would you do?
In today's Gospel, Jesus said to his disciples: "Remain in my love. If you keep my commandments you will remain in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commandments and remain in his love. I have told you this so that my own joy may be in you and your joy be complete." What do we want? Eternal joy or eternal sadness? The joy we experience in this world is only temporary. After a while, we would need to find other ways and means to remain joyful. In fact, we may never attain complete joy. However, Jesus is offering a kind of joy which is complete. We can receive this joy which He offers us if we keep God's commandments and remain in His love. If that is so, why do we still stubbornly insist in seeking temporary things of this world while slacking in seeking eternal things out of this world? Don't we value and want the joy Jesus offers us?
In today's Gospel, Jesus said to his disciples: "Remain in my love. If you keep my commandments you will remain in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commandments and remain in his love. I have told you this so that my own joy may be in you and your joy be complete." What do we want? Eternal joy or eternal sadness? The joy we experience in this world is only temporary. After a while, we would need to find other ways and means to remain joyful. In fact, we may never attain complete joy. However, Jesus is offering a kind of joy which is complete. We can receive this joy which He offers us if we keep God's commandments and remain in His love. If that is so, why do we still stubbornly insist in seeking temporary things of this world while slacking in seeking eternal things out of this world? Don't we value and want the joy Jesus offers us?
Wednesday, 16 April 2014
Wednesday of the 5th Week of Easter
Are we part of Jesus' vine? Or have we drifted away from Him. Some of us think that we are part of Jesus' vine, but the reality is that some of us have chosen to be apart from Him, or we have drifted away from Him due to our neglect, or due to our attitudes and behaviour. In today's Gospel, Jesus reminds us: "Whoever remains in me, with me in him, bears fruit in plenty; for cut off from me you can do nothing." We may appear to be doing good or charitable things, but we could still be apart from Jesus. We could appear to be respectable people, but we could still be cut off from Jesus. How so? By looking at the fruits and motivation of what we are doing and why we are doing such things. Some of us are doing things for our own glory or for our own personal gratification, under the pretence of appearing helpful, respectable, good or charitable.
Ultimately, whether we are remaining in Christ or otherwise can be summed up in what Jesus tells us: "It is to the glory of my Father that you should bear much fruit, and then you will be my disciples." The glory is to God, not to ourselves. The question is: are we really remaining in Jesus?
Ultimately, whether we are remaining in Christ or otherwise can be summed up in what Jesus tells us: "It is to the glory of my Father that you should bear much fruit, and then you will be my disciples." The glory is to God, not to ourselves. The question is: are we really remaining in Jesus?
Tuesday, 15 April 2014
Tuesday of the 5th Week of Easter
Suffering and hardship are some of the many things we may experience as Christians. Some of us may not necessarily experience major suffering or hardship in our lifetime, but we may experience some sort of suffering and hardship, especially in countries where Christians are persecuted or mistreated. Some countries may not necessarily cause suffering and hardship explicitly or directly, but through various subtle ways and means, Christians in those countries may still experience suffering and hardship.
In today's reading, Paul and Barnabas "put fresh heart into the disciples, encouraging them to persevere in the faith. ‘We all have to experience many hardships’ they said ‘before we enter the kingdom of God.’" Despite the many difficulties, sufferings and hardship we may face, are we willing to persevere in the faith as Paul and Barnabas encouraged all of us to do so? It is tempting and seems easy to just run away or abandon our faith. But let us not lose heart; let us remain strong and hopeful for God will care for us.
In today's reading, Paul and Barnabas "put fresh heart into the disciples, encouraging them to persevere in the faith. ‘We all have to experience many hardships’ they said ‘before we enter the kingdom of God.’" Despite the many difficulties, sufferings and hardship we may face, are we willing to persevere in the faith as Paul and Barnabas encouraged all of us to do so? It is tempting and seems easy to just run away or abandon our faith. But let us not lose heart; let us remain strong and hopeful for God will care for us.
Monday, 14 April 2014
Monday of the 5th Week of Easter
Are we all the same? Some of us think that we are better or smarter than others, and we differentiate among ourselves according to status, rank, the amount of wealth we have, etc. When we go to a function or to a store, do we see equal treatment? More often than not, we see those who are in power or who have influence or wealth receiving special or VIP treatment. However, when we go down to the basics, aren't we all the same?
Today's reading tells us that "when the apostles Barnabas and Paul heard what was happening they tore their clothes, and rushed into the crowd, shouting, ‘Friends, what do you think you are doing? We are only human beings like you...'" Barnabas and Paul shows us that, despite all the wealth, power, capabilities, intellect, etc. we may have, ultimately we are only human beings. All that we have, all that we are, all that we value here on earth are only temporary and there will come a time when we could lose all these, especially when we die. Thus, shouldn't we be focusing more of what is permanent or eternal?
Today's reading tells us that "when the apostles Barnabas and Paul heard what was happening they tore their clothes, and rushed into the crowd, shouting, ‘Friends, what do you think you are doing? We are only human beings like you...'" Barnabas and Paul shows us that, despite all the wealth, power, capabilities, intellect, etc. we may have, ultimately we are only human beings. All that we have, all that we are, all that we value here on earth are only temporary and there will come a time when we could lose all these, especially when we die. Thus, shouldn't we be focusing more of what is permanent or eternal?
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