In 1962, Christianity was removed from the public schools in the United States. 50 years later, a study was made on the effects: Criminal arrests of teens were up 150% according to the US Bureau of Census Teen suicides, in ages 15-19 years old, were up 450% according to the National Center of Health Services…
Category: Trust in God
Giving
Luke 14: 12-14 Jesus would always see things from the heart: He lambasted the Pharisees and Scribes because they were holy on the outside with their titles, places of honors, and vestments. However, God saw what was in their hearts. Despite the town willing to punish her, Jesus did not judge or punish a woman…
In the Eyes of Eternity
There is a car bumper sticker that says, “He who dies with the most toys, wins!” At first, this may sound funny, but on deeper reflection, one may think, “Is the purpose of life all about accumulating material things?” In the Gospel, Jesus was asked a question by the Sadducees about money and heaven. A…
Perseverance
I love watching the many talent shows on TV. Often a contestant walks in, we think, “Why is she there?”, “The nerve”, or “He will never make it.” Then the person does his well and we are stunned. We ask ourselves, “Unbelievable! Where did he/she get that talent?” My dear friends, the Gospel tells us…
The Word of God and Family
A friend of mine once shared this reflection about the life of a priest: Before he entered the seminary, people in the Parish would not mind him. When he became a seminarian, suddenly people knew him. In fact, he would now be invited to the parties and fellowships. Then he became a deacon, and this…
Travel Light
Luke 9:1-6 Whenever I am blessed with the opportunity to go on a pilgrimage, I cannot help but notice what is the strength of the Filipino and what needs to be improved. Our best strength is that we are warm. Once the bus driver asked me if the group that I was with are all…
Birth and Death
Just the other day, I had a very surreal experience. I celebrated Mass for a family in their mausoleum to remember and pray for their loved ones who moved on to the next life. During the final hymn, the choir sang “Happy Birthday.” Although it would be my birthday the next day, I said to…
David and Goliath
Aside from fairy tales, many of us grew up listening to bible stories: Samson and Delilah, Adam and Eve, and one of the most popular, David and Goliath. How fascinated are we, that with a slingshot, a small boy can bring down a powerful, huge giant! Against all odds… My dear friends, how many times…
Having A Life
“What would you do with your life if money were no object?” was a question posted on the internet. At initial thought, the responses were: to go on a grand vacation, to shop, to live a stress-free life. Upon deeper reflection though, the responses all boiled down to one thing: TO SERVE. To serve in…
Like Father, Like Son
For any son who adores and loves his father, one of the greatest compliments he can receive is “You are like your dad”, “You look like your dad”, “You talk like your dad”, “You have mannerisms like your dad,” or “I am reminded of your dad when I see you.” Since time immemorial, the Jews…
3 Ways 2 Your 1 God 