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 Beginning

Once I was talking to an HR personnel of a multinational corporation and he was saying that in his company there was a move for gender classifications, identity, or expressions. Now they are talking about: Bigender – someone’s identity encompasses man and woman Agender – someone’s identity is either man or woman, or any other…

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…

Prophet

Some time ago, I was watching on TV a discussion on “fake news.” It is very disturbing that people can actually do these things without morality anymore. They can do these things without guilt that what they are doing is wrong. Even worse, they will point out other people who are into fake news simply…

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…

Who Is The Favorite?

Among siblings, one of the favorite discussions is who is the favorite of daddy and mommy? Even in the office, who is the favorite of the boss? In the Parish, people observe the priest and also ask who is father’s favorite? In the Gospel, Peter compared himself to John. We know that if not checked,…

The Truth Will Always Prevail

Matthew 10: 24-33 Thanks to technology, it is so easy to obtain information: Is it raining in Baguio? Just text a friend who lives there and you will get your response. How does one go to Mall of Asia fastest? Just go to Waze and it will teach you the way. What is happening in…

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…