Ur Sunday Dose: EMMANUEL: God with us! (PART TWO)

Dec. 26, 2010
Feast of the Holy Family: Jesus, Mary and Joseph
Si 3,2-6.12-14||Col 3,12-21
Mt 2,13-15.19-23

EMMANUEL: God with us!
(Part Two)

And to prove to you that this is a continuation, here is the last paragraph of yesterday's reflection...

We should never forget this, guys. There should be no other reason of the celebration but Jesus Christ. He is God-with-us! He is Emmanuel! Let us welcome him with open hearts, and joyful spirits!

Let us celebrate this with our family together. Remember, Jesus came in the midst of Mary and Joseph. Likewise it is best if we celebrate this as a family, welcoming the glorious King in all his humble state.

I am walking through the streets of Tanza, and see children accompanied by their parents, going to their godparents to ask for their Aguinaldo. It's good to see such view in our streets, aside from the fact that the parents want their children to be in good condition as they are doing this.

In Christmas, we celebrate the coming of God as man. Today, we celebrate the family, the chosen instrument by God for man to be saved. Jesus did not come in the midst of jungle animals and lived in the obscurity of the forest. He did not came in the sea and lived there with the fishes.

Jesus came as Man, and to the human family he dwelt, there he grew and was formed to be a rightful citizen. He came to know of the Law, the usual household errands and carpentry through his parents, Mary and Joseph. Through the careful eye of these two grateful parents, the Emmanuel truly dwelt within the human confines, living like them in all things except sin.

===

Through the example of the Holy Family, we come to realize that every family - each and every family of the world - is a manifestation of the Emmanuel. God dwells within each and every family which lives in love, trust prayer and peace. (First and Second Reading)

Even to the point that to save him, Joseph took him and Mary to Egypt to live there for some time. Herod that time is furious with the new-born king, fearing that he may overtake the throne sometime soon. This is also the reason why there are the Holy Innocents, offering their juvenile lives for the savior. (Gospel Passage)
But the newborn king is not after the riches of the world; he is after winning the hearts of men and offering it to his Heavenly Father. He is after our conversion, he is after our sanctity in living. And to do this, he willed that he dwell inside the human family, to share with their pains, sufferings, victories and joys.

We look into our own families, and ask ourselves, do we live like the Holy Family of Nazareth? Do we live as one, in humility, simplicity and praise, where the other is Christ? Or like Herod, do we support the actions of the world which are against the family and life?

===

It may be a special coincidence that the Solemnity of Christmas goes one day ahead of the Feast of the Holy Family. As yesterday we celebrate the coming of Jesus, the Emmanuel, today may we be reminded that Jesus lived, and first became Emmanuel in the Family. Through that, we shall always be guided in all our affairs and doings that God is the center of our homes, of our families.

Christmas would never be the same if we share it with the ones that we love. Let us spend the season with the group of people where God first manifested as Emmanuel: nowhere else but the family.

AND SO WE PRAY...

I believe in Jesus Christ and in the beauty of the gospel begun in Bethlehem.

I believe in the one whose spirit glorified a little town; and whose spirit still brings music to persons all over the world, in towns both large and small.

I believe in the one for whom the crowded inn could find no room, and I confess that my heart still sometimes wants to exclude Christ from my life today.

I believe in the one who the rulers of the earth ignored and the proud could never understand; whose life was among common people, whose welcome came from persons of hungry hearts.

I believe in the one who proclaimed the love of God to be invincible:

I believe in the one whose cradle was a mother's arms, whose modest home in Nazareth had love for its only wealth, who looked at persons and made them see what God's love saw in them, who by love brought sinners back to purity, and lifted human weakness up to meet the strength of God.

I confess my ever-lasting need of God: The need of forgiveness for our selfishness and greed, the need of new life for empty souls, the need of love for hearts grown cold.

I believe in God who gives us the best of himself. I believe in Jesus, the Emmanuel, the son of the living God, born in Bethlehem this night, for me and for the world. Amen.

(Christmas Creed)

BïTZëëlöG_122510 :)

Ur Sunday Dose: EMMANUEL: God with us! (PART ONE)

Dec. 25, 2010
SOLEMNITY OF THE BIRTH OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST
Midnight Mass:
Is 9,1-6 || Ti 2,11-14
Lk 2,1-14

Mass of the Day:
Is 52,7-10||Heb 1,1-6
Jn1,1-18

EMMANUEL: God with us!
(Part One)

GLORIA IN EXCELSIS DEO!

VERBUM CARO FACTUM EST, ET HABITAVIT IN NOBIS.

Look around you. What do you see in the smiles of the children? In the bustle of family get-togethers? In the carols sung by the choir? What do you think is the reason behind this?

Do you feel the mystery, the magic, the thrill of this day? What is it that makes this day special from the others?

At last, after four long weeks of joyous preparation, we have arrived to the first Pasch of the liturgical year: the Pasch of the Birth of our Lord. Truly that this day calls for a celebration. From the joyful feast of the Noche Buena to the Filipino Tradition of visiting our godparents, to the mood of this most anticipated day, truly our way of welcoming the Christ Child is beyond compare.

Somehow, we feel the mystery which wraps around this day with our mortal senses. Though we only Christianized this day from the pagans, still the meaning that lies underneath the celebration leads us to the real faith, to what we believe: that Jesus Christ, being God omnipotent, did not cling to his dignity, emptied himself and became man.

And as he emptied himself, he willed that he may be born in a humble estate, there in the stable, witnessed by his parents Mary and Joseph, by the animals and by some shepherds. Unlike what the Jews expected, the King of Glory is born in such poor stature, that he may show us where he really dwells.

The Word came into flesh and dwelt among us... EMMANUEL! He embraced our poor stature, and glorified it through his life, death and resurrection. He never left us alone; he came to save you and me. And to do that, he willed that he may be born within the midst of the common tao, so that from there, he may show his great power over all the principalities of this world, the last one being sin and death.

====

During the last few days, I watched this commercial wherein a teenager, because he was dooped by his girl, grouped himself among the SMP: Samahang Malalamig ang Pasko.

We are somewhat asked by that commercial: Why do we celebrate Christmas? Is it because of the money, the gifts or mundane affairs, such as human love? No, guys. This should not be our reason why we need to celebrate this day. If so, sigurado akong hindi Pasko ang ipinagdiriwang natin. We only celebrate our enjoyment, and not the real reason of the celebration.

We should celebrate this day because God came to be with us. He is indeed with us!

EMMANUEL! God is with us! This is the main reason why we celebrate this day. That is the reason why we spend four weeks lighting four candles in joyful anticipation. This is the reason why we sacrifice for the last nine mornings. This is the reason of Christmas. EMMANUEL!

And never in our lives have we been SMP: Samahang Malalamig ang Pasko. Because Christ came in our midst and never left us empty-handed afterwards, we belong to SMP: Samahang Makabuluhan ang Pasko!

We should never forget this, guys. There should be no other reason of the celebration but Jesus Christ. He is God-with-us! He is Emmanuel! Let us welcome him with open hearts, and joyful spirits! Let us celebrate this with our family together. Remember, Jesus came in the midst of Mary and Joseph...

(To be continued...)

MERRY CHRISTMAS, EVERYONE!
and
HAPPY BIRTHDAY, JESUS!!!

BïTZëëlöG_122410 :)

Ur Sunday Dose: SACRIFICE TODAY, REJOICE TOMORROW!

Dec. 19, 2010
Fourth Sunday of Advent
Is 7,10-14 || Rom 1,1-7
Mt 1,18-24

SACRIFICE TODAY, REJOICE TOMORROW!

So... this is it.

Here comes the last Sunday of the Advent Season; the last weekend before Christmas. People tend to become very busy these days. Some go to malls to buy food for the Noche Buena, or gifts for the loved ones. Others (like me) continue the Filipino tradition of the Simbang Gabi, and go to sleep through the whole day because they would still want to look fresh on Christmas. Others go to the provinces for vacation el grande, because they had already received their 13th Month Pay and Christmas Bonus. Whatever we may be doing these days, one thing is sure... we are busy.

Busy for what? My priest-friend said in his homily, we should not be busy because it is "in"; rather, we should really know that main reason why we are having such haggard preparation: because we are excited for somebody to come, and we tend to sacrifice some of our treasure, even just for this time of the year, for that somebody coming on his way.

And that somebody is Jesus Christ. He is Emmanuel, God-with-us!

True, when Christmas Day comes, we feel such joy that we only experience once in a year, and we feel contented despite the financial crisis that we are undergoing. For us, whatever we spent is not important; what's important are the joy and blessings that's bestowed upon us, and we share with our brothers and sisters. What's important is the thought that we've prepared enough for the coming of Our Lord. And more important, through our sacrifice we experience His presence healing our every pain and completing our gaps in life. We feel that God is really with us!

We see, we really tend to have some sacrifice before we experience God in us. Though we have some hesitation, at the end we still say that we have no regrets that we did it. All these because God does not dwell in hearts of pride, but in hearts of people who give from the heart, and whose life depend on Him.

And besides, if we think that we are the only race in this world that's prone to a lot of sacrificing for Christmas, we are certainly wrong.

Sometime, 2010 years ago, somebody also sacrificed for the Messiah to come. He knows that he is living in a culture who's very conservative and patriarchal. He may take his pride and honor rather than fight for a child who's not literally his son, and so put her girlfriend to death. But he looked beyond the culture, he left behind his masculine ego, and considered that child as a blessing from up above to her girl. He sacrificed a big deal, so as to relish the God-with-us in a more personal manner.

Who is he? Nobody else but the Adoptive Father of the Savior and Patron of the Universal Church. He goes by the name... JOSEPH.

We see the image of Joseph as a silent father in the scriptures. There are no recorded words which come from him. However, his silent role is really a definitive one, for under his tutelage, Jesus grew in wisdom and favor from God and the people of Nazareth. He sacrificed in silence, as we come to see of it; never considering any ill-will for his adopted son, rather, loving him as his real son, and forming him to be a good Jewish citizen, and later, the favored Son of God the Father.

For sacrificing his earthly righteousness, he earned heavenly righteousness. Now, the Church invokes him as its patron, trusting that as he took care of the Savior in his childhood and youth, likewise, he will take care of us, his spiritual children and brothers and sisters in Christ.

Truly, Joseph is considered among the images of Advent, next to Mary and John the baptist. Like the two latter figures, Joseph also waited in holy anticipation for the coming of the Messiah. Though silent, his actions speak very much of the sacrifice which he endured for the coming of the Redeemer. And at the end of it, he also rejoiced in its coming, and further, he was blessed to see the Messiah face-to-face, to hold, care and love him, and to form him into a righteous man.

As we light the fourth candle in the wreath, the Candle of Love, we pray to Jesus, the Emmanuel, that like Joseph, his adoptive father, who loved him very much and cared for him despite the odds of the Jewish culture, we may continue to persevere in our sacrifice which is being done in anticipation of the coming of the Messiah, not only in Christmas, but more fittingly, in everyday of our lives. May we continually be blessed in this season of sacrifice, in all-hopes that at the each moment of our lives, we see Jesus, the Emmanuel, and at the end of our journey on Earth, we rejoice at being with him in Eternal life!

AND SO WE PRAY...

Lord Jesus, we have now come to the last Sunday of our preparation for your coming on Christmas. We pray that you continue to guide us in the coming days which lead to your birth in that lonely, yet holy stable. Wrap us in the warmth of your divine presence. Fill our empty spaces with the love that only you can provide. Bless us and all our endeavors with your divine graces.

Like Joseph, teach us to sacrifice rightly despite the odds of the world, so as to rejoice at your consolation, and at the end of our lives, we may come to see you in the glories of heaven, our ultimate goal and true home.

Maranatha! Come Lord Jesus! Amen.

Mary, our Queen and Mother, pray for us!

Joseph, Adoptive Father of the Savior, pray for us!

BïTZëëlöG_121710 :)

Ur Sunday Dose: ARE YOU THE ONE?

Dec. 12, 2010
Third Sunday of Advent
Is 35,1-6a.10 || Jas 5,7-10
Mt 11,2-11

ARE YOU THE ONE?

Gaudéte in Dómino semper: íterum dico, gaudéte!

This, the introductory verse of the Third Sunday of Advent, is the same reason why this day has another name: Gaudéte Sunday. With just two weeks away from the celebration of the Lord's birth, we see the rising intensity of joy which we feel in our hearts. We prepare more for his Birthday, and we begin to sacrifice for something which we wish deeply in our hearts (I said this because Simbang Gabi is starting this week, on Thursday, Dec. 16). Truly, the magical flame gets hotter and hotter as the day of our Lord's birth draws near. Let us draw nearer to this flame of joy and excitement, and let the Lord consume us with love that only He can give us.

Okay. Let's move on.

At the turn of the 21st Century, we see different talent searches on the rise. They had raised some of the famous Filipino artists of our day. Their question always goes like this, Are you the next star? Are you the next famous sensation? This, among many others, are the questions that we hear from these TV shows. We feel such excitement when we watch them perform on stage, as we criticize who will be the next big thing on television. And when we come to know of the big winner of that talent search, we usually follow him through his shows, and support him in anyway possible.

That same thing happened to Jesus sometime 2000 years ago. He became a talk of the town because of the miracles he is doing to the people of Judea. Because of this, John the Baptist - another hitmaker of the time - sent his men to ask Jesus, “Are you the one who is to come, or should we look for another?”

Maybe John is in total doubt or something that the Christ has come. We should remember that at that time, Jews are still waiting for the coming of the Messiah, not knowing that he is already there in their midst. False prophets are also around by that time (makes no difference to what we know today. Lots of false witnesses and prophets scattered around the globe.) telling the people that they are the christ.

Little do they know that the real Christ is there, already doing wonders among the people.

Jesus answers, Go and tell John what you hear and see: the blind regain their sight, the lame walk, lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the poor have the good news proclaimed to them. And blessed is the one who takes no offense at me.

Jesus did not tell that He is the one, instead, he told the disciples of John those words which resemble the maxim What you see is what you get. With these signs, the people may come to know that the Messiah has finally arrived, and is now living in their midst. He does not boast his mission of saving the Human Race, but rather shows-off through the graces which he bestows on the people.

While others wait for somebody coming in great power and might to save them from damnation, Jesus comes as a humble worker of the Father's vineyard, born of human estate, lived in poverty and simplicity. And through that, Jesus shows his saving work to the people.

Jesus tells the people which were with him, What did you go out to the desert to see? A reed swayed by the wind? Then what did you go out to see? Someone dressed in fine clothing? Those who wear fine clothing are in royal palaces. Then why did you go out? To see a prophet? Yes, I tell you, and more than a prophet.

We may not admit it, but we are also looking forward to something powerful to "save" us from our trials. Oh yes. I may call you a hypocrite if you never experienced such even once in your life. When the going gets tough, we rely on money, on power, and on other things which may "bring" us happiness and contentment. But brothers! Life does not depend on every temporary thing of this world. These things may make us "the one" for some time, but not forever.

We light the Third candle of Advent, the candle of Joy. We should always remember this: true joy comes from Jesus Christ! He came for our salvation, as well as our joy and contentment. Though he is always disputed and disregarded by all, he is always there for us. He continues to guide us on every step of the way. And we prepare for his coming back in our midst to show us that at the end of the day, life does not depend on the temporary things of the world, but on Christ, and Christ alone.

Let us rejoice now, and always! Jesus is coming, and is here with us. Rejoice! Gaudéte!

AND SO WE PRAY...

Jesus, your coming in our midst impels us to rejoice and be glad. Now, more than ever, you dwell with us to show your glorious power and might among your people. You lead us to your presence, the sole source of our strength. You teach us not to rely on the riches of this world, but to you who came to fill our every need with God's grace.

Help us as we continue to prepare in expectation, that we may look forward to your coming as something which would bring us total joy and contentment. Teach us not to rely on ourselves, nor on the temporary gifts of this world. Fill us with your love, that we may truly appreciate the things which come from you, the real source of man's joy and happiness.

Maranatha! Come Lord Jesus! Amen.

Mary, our Queen and Mother, pray for us!

BïTZëëlöG_121010 :)

Ur Sunday Dose: Mightier than I

Dec. 05, 2010

Second Sunday of Advent
Is 11,1-10 || Rom 15,4-9
Mt 3,1-12

MIGHTIER THAN I

Days before I lost my cellphone, I had a text message conversation with a friend. I asked her, Fhudge, ano ang ine-expect mo sa Pasko? She told me, Sana, magkaroon na ako ng bagong magmamahal sa akin.

I was surprised with her reply so I texted back, Sigurado ka? Yun lang ang hinihintay mo sa Pasko? She replied, Siyempre, sana magkasama-sama na ang pamilya ko. I texted back, Ay, tama nga talaga! Nalimutan na talaga ng karamihan ang tunay na dahilan ng Pasko.

Yes, this is the reality of our days. we anticipate Christmas, not because we remember the Birth of our Lord in Bethlehem, but because of the material and commercial worth that it gives us. From the Aguinaldo, to the Festive Noche Buena.

We now have the image of John the Baptist. He begins his baptizing ministry in this Sunday's Gospel Passage, as he preaches throughout the Jordan River, calling the people to conversion and to wait on somebody who is to come. He knows he is not the Messiah, but he comes before him. He invites the people to repent as early as now, and to prepare the way of the Lord, and make straight his paths.

I am baptizing you with water, for repentance, but the one who is coming after me is mightier than I. I am not worthy to carry his sandals. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire.

When we take these words of John, it means that there is a reason for waiting. And that is a person, not a thing, like we usually expect. We see, guys, Christmas is far beyond those gifts or the food, or the socialization that we usually do during the holidays. Christmas is about Jesus Christ. It is about his Incarnation, his coming as man. it is about his dwelling in us.

That is what is Advent all about. We are not to wait for anything that has nothing to do with Christ. We are here to expect, to prepare for our Lord's coming. Christmas is Christ, Mightier and Stronger than our any problems in life.

As we light the Candle of Peace on the Second Sunday of Advent, we ask ourselves, How do we find our expectation in Christ: as a point of peace in our hearts, or as a haggard time to give out gifts to others without preparing ourselves and our souls?

It is never too late to change our ways. That's why Advent is here to prepare us in the right manner. Let us take advantage of this season to rightfully prepare ourselves. Let us listen to John's Voice. Let us prepare the Way of the Lord, for he is Mightier than all of us, and only he can lead us to the Father, just as he did on that night in Bethlehem, and on that lonely afternoon at Golgotha.

AND SO WE PRAY...

Jesus, our Lord and God! You are the humble King who is to come to deliver us from our frailties and many sins. Your reign is one which provokes peace in our hearts, in our families, in our communities. You are Mightier than anyone of us. You are stronger than any problem which we could conceive or even imagine.

Help us, Lord Jesus! Grant that we may truly prepare the way for your coming. May we straighten up our crooked ways, and may we open ourselves to you this Christmas as the real reason for the celebration.

Maranatha! Come Lord Jesus! Amen.
Mary, our Queen and Mother, pray for us!

BïTZëëlöG_120310 :)

Ur Sunday Dose: STAY AWAKE! BE PREPARED!

Nov. 28, 2010

First Sunday of Advent
The Beginning of the New Liturgical Year
Cycle A, Year I
Is 2,1-5 || Rom 13,11-14
Mt 24,37-44

STAY AWAKE! BE PREPARED!

I was writing my rendition of Ur Sunday Dose for the 33^rd Sunday in Ordinary Time (entitled “Is It the End?”) when my friend passed by to see what I was doing. He was startled by the reflection and wondered why I was writing such. He tapped me (since I was facing the computer as I was in an internet café then) and said, “Bakit ka ganyan mag-type? Para saan yan? Si Ama lang ang nakakaalam ng wakas natin.”

At first, I wanted to tell him the real intention of such write-up. But eventually, I opted to zip my mouth and reflect on what the coincidence has to tell me. Yes. God alone knows when the end will be, or how will it happen. Even the thought of it takes us out of our minds, and yet, whatever we have in our minds is not enough to portray that horrific, yet glorious moment when the Son of Man will finally come to judge us, and to take the righteous into the ethereal gates of heaven, and the wicked into the burning realm of hell.

We now open the New Liturgical Year (Cycle A, Year I) with this season of Advent; we hear the voice of Jesus speaking to us, “Stay awake! Be Prepared!” At this time of the year, when we are in expectation of the humble coming of Our Lord on Christmas, we are also called to prepare for his Second Coming, the Parousia. We don’t know how it will happen, or when, what’s important is for us to look beyond what we have right now and prepare ourselves for this event.

In today’s circumstances, we have seen and heard lots of stories how people nowadays thoughtlessly lean toward immorality and continue living in sin. Numerous terrorist attacks have been done, we’re hearing in the news of killings, robbery, and lustful activities every now and then. Our government is trying its best to pass bills which would end life and put more money into their pockets. Even our brothers in the faith are now participating in these worthless acts, putting oneself above the other and putting him in utmost shame. This is our world today, and we may admit it or not, but the planet is at its worst, way more sinful than the people of Sodom and Gomorrah.

Of this, Jesus tells us, “Just as in the days of Noah, so it will be at the coming of the Son of Man.” As we all know, the world of Noah is a world of prostitution, greed and gluttony. After Noah entered the Ark, all the Earth was washed up, with all its inhabitants. But our world today is way more evil than that of Noah’s. And given that situation, will the Son of Man come to judge each one of us.

Jesus continues, “Therefore, stay awake, for you do not know when the Son of Man will come.” Like a thief in the night, these things would take place. While everyone is sleeping, or awake enjoying their lives, Jesus would come and visit us. On that day, for sure, everyone will be of awe, repent for their sins but it may just be too late. Those who are found wearing the armor of light and living properly as in the day (Second Reading) will be with God to enjoy His graces as the fulfillment of their good deeds on Earth. All these things on that day and time we do not know, or even expect.

We now light the first candle of Advent, the candle of Hope. We wait for Jesus’ coming with hope in our hearts. We prepare ourselves for remembering his First coming as man there in the manger on that night; likewise, we prepare ourselves for his Second Coming as a merciful judge. We may not know when he will come to judge us, and for sure it will happen, but we are called to prepare for this event. We are to live a very holy life, and to shun the deeds of the night. We are to wake up from our sleep, to rise from our sins, and to hope for the coming of the Real Sun of salvation, which is Jesus Christ.

Yes, it is hard nowadays to live according to God’s will. That’s why we are to dwell ourselves into prayer, to converse with Him. I always say, not on my own strength, but on God’s grace. Yes, He is the only one who could help us live in the right path. Without his inspiration, everything we do would all be in vain. From him comes the grace, for us to use and share with others.

Once again, we begin our journey as Christians in this New Liturgical Year. His call is always fresh and new! Let us heed His call… “Stay Awake! Be Prepared!”

PRAYER

Lord Jesus, as we once again open ourselves to welcome you in this Season of Advent, help us to always stay awake for your coming, not only as a little infant at Bethlehem, but as a Powerful King at the end of time. We do not know when, or how, but we know that you would come in your full power to judge us as our Merciful God.

Jesus, come and enkindle in us that flame of living hope which would help us work untiringly and pray unceasingly as we wait for you. Never leave us in vain, but in your strength and grace, may we always stay awake and be prepared for your coming into our midst. May we always wear the armor of light, which is nobody else but You, and hope on that day when you will come to bring us to eternal happiness with You.

Maranatha! Come Lord Jesus! Amen.

Mary, our Queen and Mother, pray for us.

BïTZëëlöG_112410 :)

===
Nov. 28, 2010

To all our friends at 100% Katolikong Pinoy, and to all the Madlang Faithful, thank you very much from the bottom of my heart for giving me the chance of lighting the first candle of Advent of the Fanpage.

I would also want to thank my Professor, Mrs. Julianne S. Domingo, for the support that she conveyed to me, and for patiently examining my rendition of USD today for possible grammatical errors. You are certainly the Mother of All! Thanks, ma'am!

A chance like such comes once, that's why I would like to thank you all for your continued trust and support. This is something that I cherish and care for, through giving you posts that continue to shape and inspire us.

At the end, I am still the Lord's unworthy writing machine. I entrust all these to our God, the Emmanuel, the powerful King born in a stable for our salvation, with a prayer that he would continue to bless us and guide us especially at our down times.

Once again, thank you, 100% Katolikong Pinoy, and to all who read and support JEM@ Blogger. KUDOS TO ALL OF US!!!

May God bless us now and always! Amen!

Something New with Ur Sunday Dose...

Ever since I began rendering Gospel Reflections last July, Ur Sunday Dose has gained enough, if not much, credit from people, known or not. The comments and praises which I received from the whole blogosphere gave me the inspiration each and every Friday to continue serving you as God's humble writing machine.

I have nothing to say but Thank You! Maraming Salamat! To God, and to you all! For the support that you gave from the first post. For being my inspiration and critic. I said on the launching post, I'm not a master in giving Gospel Reflections, and I know I have a long way to go, but with you as my viewers and supporters, and with the Lord God as my guiding light, I know that I could carry on every Friday posting inspiring reflections which are words of hope for the despaired, and encouragement for those who are in their down moments.

Continue praying and supporting not only Ur Sunday Dose, but also the other post series of JEM@Blogger. Thank you guys!

And so, as we begin the New Liturgical Year in a few days, something new would also be added to the usual reflections that you see every Friday in Ur Sunday Dose. Watch out for it!

BïTZëëlöG_112510 :)

Ur Sunday Dose: Remember Me, My Jesus...

Nov. 21, 2010
34th Sunday in Ordinary Time
SOLEMNITY OF THE KINGSHIP OF
OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST
2Sm 5,1-3 || Col 1,12-20
Lk 23,35-43

REMEMBER ME, MY JESUS...

And so, here comes the end of the year.

All throughout the Church, we celebrate the last Sunday of Ordinary Time as the Solemnity of Christ the King. We observe this day through Solemn Eucharistic Celebrations, Vigils, and Solemn Processions of the image of Christ the King, and the Blessed Sacrament.

This day is full of awe and sacredness for its religious nature. Even for just a day, we acclaim Christ as the King and Center of the whole human race. While we spend 364 days of the year committing sin and evil acts, still we allot a day to celebrate Christ as the victor King of all who are saved by His blood.

Among the 3-cycle Gospels of this solemnity, the Gospel of the Year C (that is, this year) is the one which I like the most, because of its very humble ambiance. Though it is sorrowful in form, we can still see some light through it.

We go back to the Cross. Jesus is that great King nailed and died for our salvation. We can never acclaim Him as king, if he never did offer his life for us. Every drop of blood, every scourge on his body, he accepted for the love of his brothers and sisters, for his Father's sons and daughters, for US!

Despite the jeers of the world, one sees God's mercy to him. We see the image of Saint Dimas, the repentant thief on the Cross. While everyone, including the other thief, threw words of remorse to our Lord, Dimas shouts out, "Have you no fear of God, for you are subject to the same condemnation? And indeed, we have been condemned justly, for the sentence we received corresponds to our crimes, but this man has done nothing criminal."

The thief "stole" the Kingdom on that frightful moment. While everyone stands there disgracing Jesus, one comes to Him in confidence. When no more recourse is to be found, Dimas shouts out, "Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom." He lays his full trust to the Lord, somebody whom he has heard a little of, being a criminal in jail for so long. Yet this little acquaintance did not stop him from asking Jesus a very special request.

In the Crucified, St. Dimas saw God's glory! From the cross, and as if He wants to reach Dimas, Jesus answered his second last word, "Amen, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise."

How sweet is this scenario! Despite all the odds, the repentant thief comes to Jesus asking him Life. On the brick of death, Jesus did not refused the request of the repentant thief. Now, Dimas is among the Numerous saints who sing God's praises every now and then.

We ask ourselves, when do we ask Jesus to remember us? Whenever we are in our darkest? At the point of despair? When the world does not have the solution to our problems? This may seem very much odd, but this is true. We always point out that we only pray to God when we are at our problems, and seldom when we are at the happy times.

We should have no fear of coming to Jesus. He always remembers us. Especially at times when we feel no security of riches, fame and power, we may come to Him, and ask him to remember us! I have never known of such a time when Jesus refused a request of a man in full recourse to him. He always remembers us at every place and every time. He looks after our every word and deed. He guides us continually. He loves us and listens to us. Why fear? If the repentant thief could steal the Kingdom of God, how much more can we do it?

In the Eucharist, Jesus reigns as the eternal King of all Creation. He wiped out the curse of sin from the Cross (Second Reading). At the Eucharist, he continues to offer his Body and Blood for us to be in full union with him. We continually acclaim him as King, especially at this Sacrament of love.

As the Liturgical year ends this week, we pray to Christ our King, that like St. Dimas, we may be able to snatch paradise for us to cherish at the end of our days, through our deeds and words. Like St. Dimas, we ask Jesus to always remember us, especially at the times when we are down on the trials of this world. Let Jesus Christ reign as the King and Center of all our Lives.

Remember me, my Jesus... AMEN!!!

BïTZëëlöG_111910 :)

Ur Sunday Dose: IS IT THE END?

Nov. 07, 2010

33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time
Mal 3,19-20a || 2Thes 3,7-12
Lk 21,5-19

IS IT THE END?

And so we join the people who ask, Is it the end? After every war, plague, typhoon and earthquake, we tend to ask, is it the end of the world?

We watched the movie 2012 and made ourselves horrified by the terror which will be brought about by the supposed end of the world. We see the earth's crust break before our very eyes, with the buildings atop of it shatter to the endless ground. We see a big asteroid fly its way towards earth swallowing everything in water and dust. People go nowhere in terror. Everyone dies in great devastation...

... and we ask, Is it the end? Will we experience it exactly on 2012, or sometime soon?

Jesus answers: When you hear of wars and insurrections, do not be terrified; for such things must happen first, but it will not immediately be the end... Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be powerful earthquakes, famines, and plagues from place to place; and awesome sights and mighty signs will come from the sky.

Yes, these things will take place according to God's plan, but for us to ask if this is it, well my answer would be one with Jesus': Such things must happen first, but it will not immediately be the end.

Is it our right to know when will it be? No, absolutely not! It is under the watchful, yet omniscient eye of God who knows when, and how. We are to stay watchful and awake, like the ten virgins somewhere in the Gospel. We are to see to it that we do everything according to God's will. We should continue to work, and pray, for the coming of God's Kingdom here on earth.

Such things require a lot of sacrifice and suffering, yet we will persevere the fight in good intentions. We have nothing to fear when we face our end, for as Christ said, You will be hated by all because of my name, but not a hair on your head will be destroyed. By your perseverance you will secure your lives.

This may be a little complicated reflection, because the passage this week covers a lot of things which the human mind tries to comprehend, yet does it in vain. Yet, we do it in God's grace, knowing that He has something in store for us this Sunday.

And we see this: Yes, the end is near, very much near; and we have to prepare for its coming through living a holy life. For all those who live God's will will be sure to experience the glory of Heaven where he reigns as Eternal King.

One final tip for those guys out there who believe in 2012: STOP BELIEVING IN SUPERSTITIONS! TRUST IN GOD INSTEAD!

BïTZëëlöG_111210 :)

Ur Sunday Dose: HOPE for the Life to Come

Nov. 07, 2010
32nd Sunday in Ordinary Time
2Mc 7,1-2;9-14 || 2Thes 2,16-3,5
Lk 20, 27-38

HOPE for the Life to Come

In three weeks time, we will have the start of a brand new liturgical year. As we go forward to this occurrence, we see our passages talk about the life to come. Though there may be sufferings and persecution (first reading), the Lord continues to sustain us and give us the strength we need to continue life all for the love of God and His will. (second reading). All this until the ultimate end of our life on Earth, towards the eternal joys of heaven.

Actually, the first idea that came into my mind was to talk about marriage, since that is what the sadducees brought up to Jesus. According to them, Moses had written a law stating thus, If someone's brother dies leaving a wife but no child, his brother must take the wife and raise up descendants for his brother.

They asked Jesus this situation: Now there were seven brothers; the first married a woman but died childless. Then the second and the third married her, and likewise all the seven died childless. Finally the woman also died. Now at the resurrection whose wife will that woman be?For all seven had been married to her.

They may think that through the question, which is actually a boobie-trap, they may see a hole in Jesus' teachings, so that they may take him to the authorities and condemn him of faulty teaching.

But Jesus is leading us to another truth. The Gospel for today is not about marriage, which the sadducees want to pose on to us; rather, it is about the life to come, on how shall we cherish God's glory sometime soon.

We just finished celebrating the Solemnity of All the Saints, and the Day of our faithful departed. We have reflected well and good on the glory of the Saints in Heaven and the suffering of the souls in Purgatory. We prayed to the Saints for intercession, and likewise, we prayed for the souls for their eternal repose and peace.

We may ask ourselves, what would happen after we die? Sa langit kaya ako o sa impiyerno? It all depends on our way of life here in this world, if we follow Christ's words, then we are surely to enter Heaven, we are sure to be with God someday.

I think the words of Jesus is clear this week: "They can no longer die, for they are like angels; and they are the children of God because they are the ones who will rise." Yes! Those who followed God's will, even until death, will have a taste of what it is to be rewarded by God after their earthly sojourn. They suffered a lot in this world; surely, they will see the beatific vision with all the Army of Saints.

We always remember that due to sin and evil that we die in this world. But, in the eyes of God, there is no such thing as death. Everything - and all things - live in Him and for Him, that's why he is "not God of the dead, but of the living, for to him all are alive."

Remember that what we do today will be counted tomorrow. We should always pray and work for the glory of God here on Earth. Yes, it is hard, it is full of persecutions. But as we say in Filipino, kung may itinanim, may aanihin. Don't be afraid to face every trial for God. We are sure that after ever obstacle, every hindrance, there will surely be a life of greater glory in Heaven.

HOPE for the Life to come! Don't be afraid to live, and pray for God's Kingdom in this world!

BïTZëëlöG_102710 :)

Ur Sunday Dose: Like Zacchaeus... (31st Sunday - OT)

Oct. 31, 2010

31st Sunday in Ordinary Time
Wis 11,22-12,2 || 2Thes 1,11-2,2
Lk 19,1-10

LIKE ZACCHEUS...

Another coincidence today, eh!

The 31st Sunday in Ordinary Time falls on the 31st day of October. In popular culture, it is widely known as the Halloween. The next two days are by-far the most celebrated Christian Holidays at this time of the Year: the Solemnity of all the Saints (Nov.01) and the Commemoration of all the Faithful Departed (Nov.02).

Let's focus on Oct. 31, since it's a Sunday.

HALLOWEEN, or All Hallows' Eve, is the day which falls before the Solemnity of All the Saints, on Nov. 01. It may come from this Celtic Tradition of Samhain. In it, the Celts believe that the barrier between this world and the other world (May I speak of the afterlife on this?) becomes thin, thus allowing spirits to pass through, both harmful and harmless. The people of the said culture welcome back their ancestors to their homes and ward off the harmful away.

In these times, while the devout Christians celebrate this day, and the following two days with prayers and visit to their departed loved ones in the Cemetery, others observe this very much pagan tradition through trick-or-treats, Halloween parties, devilish costumes, and pagan offerings.

This day has a very solemn meaning, which was very much demoralized by the present culture. What was supposed to be a day of reflection on the glory of God's White-robed Army of the Saints, and His compassion and Mercy on those souls waiting for their purification in Purgatory, turned-out to be a celebration for the wicked triumph of Satan and his fallen angels. This is a proof that even those who consider themselves saved by the Death of the Lord still make some honor to the Prince of Darkness.

Awkward, eh? But this is the reality. Something which must be broken off.

But look at this, my brothers! At this time of the year, we see once again the glory of God's Army, those Saints who gave their lives for the sake of the Gospel. They were never ashamed to proclaim the Gospel, and even if they have a thousand lives, they would offer it all for its sake.

We see the image of Zacchaeus in today's proclamation. He is a chief publican (remember the publican last Sunday?), and is very rich in money and property. But when he heard that the Lord is passing by, he was curious to see him. Though he was small on height, he managed to see him climbing through a Sycamore tree. Jesus, upon seeing him, said, "Zacchaeus, come down quickly, for today I must stay at your house."

At the house, delighted at having the Lord in his own House, Zaccherus said his faith in this manner: "Behold, half of my possessions, Lord, I shall give to the poor, and if I have extorted anything from anyone I shall repay it four times over." Jesus affirmed this faith: "Today salvation has come to this house"

Like Zaccheus in today's Gospel, we see the Saints as people having their dark history, yet glorified upon letting Jesus come into their lives...

Like Zaccheus, they also lived in sin, some are living in prostitution, gambling, and other worldly vices.

Like Zaccheus, Jesus called them to let him enter into their lives. Some hesitated at first, yet welcomed him with great joy. Upon welcoming Him, they felt like a great transformation is happening in their lives, to the point that they are converted.

Like Zaccheus, they offered their lives to God, and to the service of the needy brothers. We see some Saints renouncing their riches and giving it to the poor. Others do miracles through God's grace in order to transform other lives.

Like Zaccheus, Jesus gives salvation to these people. They are now with Jesus at Heaven, cherishing the Glory that is with God alone. And as of now, we ask their intercession for the many petitions we ask of God through them.

Like the Saints, we are also called to be like Zaccheus. From a dark life of sin, Jesus knocks. We are challenged to let Him in. As we offer our life to Him and to the Church, we could see a vast transformation occurring in our lives. It is never too late to be holy, in all means. But we should not slumber or give a deaf ear to this call.

Holiness is our Challenge. Christ is our Model. The Saints are our Inspiration.

As we celebrate the Day of the Lord on Halloween, we continue to ask the intercession of the Saints. We always ask them to pray for us in all our undertakings. As they lived Holy lives on Earth, of which its reward they are now experiencing in Heaven, we ask their guidance that like them, we too may live in total Holiness, in obedience to Christ and His divine Providence.

... And no to Halloween Parties!

BïTZëëlöG_102710 :)

Ur Sunday Dose: Prayer and Vocations (Special Edition)

Oct. 24, 2010

30th Sunday in Ordinary Time

(Special Edition for the Vocation Week of the 100% Katolikong Pinoy! Online Ministry)

Sir 35, 12-14; 16-18 || 2Tm 4, 6-8;16-18

Lk 18,9-14

PRAYER and VOCATIONS

Vocation is a very important gift came from God. Though it comes in different forms, in different circumstances, and to different persons, nevertheless, it has but one goal: Our Sanctification and His glorification.

I've often heard of lots of seminarians and sisters who had their share of how they were called. Some heard it as they were serving in their parish as a lay minister - Altar Server, Choir member, Legionary, or the like. Their service in the community nourished their desire to serve Christ in a deeper way.

While that is the common manner of the Call for some, others hear this "voice from within" on the most extraordinary moments of life. some hear it when they have an encounter with the poor and needy brothers. Others when they feel converted from a dark past. Still others when they have sleepless nights. And others have a jive of these three. They are a proof that you don't really need to be inside a Parish ministry to hear His call.

On all these circumstances, they hear this "voice from within," and realize that they have this special mission to the Church. They can feel certain doubts, but this voice succeeds their fears, until that certain time that they respond to this mysterious voice with a very big YES. Some enter the seminary or the convent. Others find their one true love and get married.

Nevertheless, this call to Vocation overshadows every personal attribute that we have, and I mean everything - our feelings, desires, circumstances, even our problems. When we hear this call, and respond to it with Mary's FIAT, it is as if with God's help, we can outdo everything! And when we hear this call, there is this urge to follow it wherever it may lead us. This is "the road less taken, the narrow door" which only the just and the worthy may take.

And so, we need to nourish this call with Prayer, lots of it. Prayer is one of the keys in a better vocation discernment. We may never know what may be Jesus' plan for each one of us, but there certainly is one. We just need to have an intimate communication with Him, as we always ask for His help in knowing this "great plan," and striving hard to reach it.

Now, as we hear Jesus speak today, we are asked, How do we pray to God? Do we boast like the Pharisee, or ask for His mercy like the Publican? We are all sinners in this world, and yet we strive to follow Christ in any way possible. We need his strength to continue fighting for our sanctification.

It's just that some pray for their discernment in the wrong way, always boasting himself and his achievements. God cannot enter our hearts if it is filled with ourselves. And if that happens, our vocation is not an authentic one, and it may be an abuse of God's will. It may lead to our ill-luck in our spiritual life.

Jesus calls us to be like the publican in praying, and discerning for that "great plan" in our lives. Not thinking of himself, standing at a distance, with eyes down, he prays: "My God! Have mercy! I am a sinner!" Like him, we are likewise called to ask mercy of Jesus. His heart is open to those who would want to confide their lives and everything that comes with it to Him.

And when we are truly rested in Christ's heart, that's the time when Christ communes with us in a deeper manner, and the sacred magic begins. As the Venerable John Paul II says of it:

In the hidden recesses of the human heart the grace of a vocation takes the form of a dialogue. It is a dialogue between Christ and an individual, in which a personal invitation is given. Christ calls the person by name and says: "Come, follow me." This call, this mysterious inner voice of Christ, is heard most clearly in silence and prayer. Its acceptance is an act of faith.

Taking the great pope's words, we can see that Vocation is a two-way communion between Christ and his Confidanté. We talk to Christ and he listens; He speaks and we listen. We can never reach this intimate relationship if we are full of pride. We should always remember that while we work for the Kingdom of God here on earth, we are still his laborers, and we are to listen to his Voice at all times.

Do not be afraid to listen to the signs of the times. Do not be afraid to talk to God of his plan for your life. And if you discover what that plan may be, do not be afraid of following what you feel is God's call. Ask his strength when feeling doubts on your vocation. In other words, do not be afraid to ask and follow Christ in every way. At the end of everything, you will be contented with what you will receive as the fruit of this grace.

Finally. We hear Jesus' call somewhere in the Gospel, "Pray, therefore, to the Lord of the Harvest, that He may send laborers to the Harvest." We continually pray to God in this Sunday Eucharist for our own intentions, but we should also make it a point to add into our prayers that for vocations into the Church. We pray that the youth of today may respond truthfully to Christ's call to be fishers of men. We pray for those who have responded already to this call that they may continue to bear witness to Christ's undying love for us. We pray for each other that we may altogether live in harmony and Christian Unity under the great Sun which never fades... Jesus Christ!

Rogate!!!

KuyaZeke_102310

(BitZeke's Note: This is a special post of Ur Sunday Dose, in-line with the celebration of 100% Katolikong Pinoy's Vocation Week which would end on Sunday, Oct. 24.

For my regular Sunday Reflection, Pray what you Live, Live what you Pray, you can go to the next post, or click HERE.

Special thanks to 100% Katolikong Pinoy Online Ministry on Facebook.com for the support that I've been receiving from Lit-tie Monday to this post! May God continue to bless you guys!)