Whenever I am asked what film about Exorcism do I like, for now, my response is Exorcism of Emily Rose. It is based on a true story, most of the scenes are in a courtroom discussing faith and science, and the scenes are not exaggerated.

In talking about scenes, one of the most memorable ones was when Emily Rose asked in a dream why was she being tormented like this. The woman, who was supposed to be Mary, said she has two options. First, this can all stop and you will have eternal peace, or you can continue to suffer and remind the world that evil is real.

In the Gospel, Jesus encountered an evil spirit. In their encounter, three things we can learn.

1. “Have you come to destroy us?” In the end, the devil and his legions will be chained in hell. For now, though, many of them are loose and roam the earth. If there is so much evil in the world, it is only because the devil and his legions know that the time is near. Hence it would like to create as much damage as it can.
2. “I know who you are—the Holy One of God!” The evil recognized both the divinity of Jesus and Jesus being the Son of God. For the apostles, this is one of the experiences that little by little, made them believe that Jesus is both Messiah and the Son of God.
3. “Quiet! Come out of him!” God is in control and evil is no match. In fact in exorcism, we realize that the devil knows they are no match when it comes to the Lord. God is God and they are just spiritual creatures created. In fact, what really irritates the devil is Mama Mary. The devil was proud and he was brought down. Mama Mary was a human who was exalted. “Blessed are you among women.”, “All generations will call me blessed.” Elizabeth even called her. “Mother of our Lord.”

In this Mass, first, very important to look at everything that is happening in the world and in our lives… not only economically, not only politically, but also in the spiritual realm. Why is there no more sense of sin? Why are the values of the world so evil? Why are evildoers very bold?

Second, the devil is very scheming. All it needs is for us to let it enter our lives and we will become a prisoner. Also be very discerning, as evil always mimics the divine.

Third, this is a spiritual warfare. Protect yourself spiritually: Mass, Confession, Praying of the Rosary, and using of sacramentals. We always remember the words of Mama Mary in Fatima, “At the end, my Immaculate Heart will triumph.” In other words, be hopeful. Continue to be light of the world and salt of the earth no matter how difficult. Good will always prevail. God wins indefinitely.