Scriptures Must be Fulfilled
“Did you have to come with swords and clubs to capture me, as though I were an outlaw? Day after day, I was with you teaching in the Temple, and you did not arrest me. But the scriptures must come true.” (Mark 14: 48 – 49)
“But the scriptures must come true.” God’s word is true and must be fulfilled. Christ’s food is to do the will of his Father. His Father’s will for his earthly life is spelt out in the scriptures. Jesus delighted in the will of his Father and embraced his plan for his life. He never opposed his Father’s will even when it is unfavorable to him. His Father willed that he came into the world to save it through suffering and humiliation. Since his Father is all powerful and all wise, his chosen method for saving the world is the best.
The Father also has a plan for my life. That plan is good. The Father’s plan for my life can also be found in the scriptures. Lord Jesus, grant me deep faith and courage to embrace the Father’s plan for my life.
Saturday, July 15, 2006
Friday, July 14, 2006
Your Will and Not Mine
Your Will and Not Mine
“The sorrow in my heart is so great that it almost crushes me. Stay here and keep watch ……. Father, my Father! All things are possible for you. Take this cup of suffering away from me. Yet not what I want, but what you want …… ‘Simon, are you asleep? Weren’t you able to keep awake even for one hour? ….. Keep watch and pray that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.” (Mark 14: 32 – 38)
The hour has come for Jesus to suffer. How did he handle the situation?
“The sorrow in my heart is so great that it almost crushes me. Stay here and keep watch ……. Father, my Father! All things are possible for you. Take this cup of suffering away from me. Yet not what I want, but what you want …… ‘Simon, are you asleep? Weren’t you able to keep awake even for one hour? ….. Keep watch and pray that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.” (Mark 14: 32 – 38)
The hour has come for Jesus to suffer. How did he handle the situation?
- He went to a secluded place, his “closet” and prayed.
- It was a moment when he had to confront reality all alone. He did not waste time being disappointed that Peter, James and John were sleeping.
- He bared his heart to the Father. He was afraid of what he saw coming. But if it is his Father’s will, he will accept it.
- He drew strength and power from the knowledge that his suffering had been sanctioned by his Father.
Thursday, July 13, 2006
Knowing Christ
Knowing Christ
“More than that, I even consider everything as a loss because of the supreme good of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord.” (Philippians 3: 8)
To know Christ intimately, to love him passionately and to follow him everywhere is a goal I work on everyday. To know Christ intimately, I must associate with him frequently through:
To know Christ intimately is a major purpose of my life. It is the 50% of the mission. It is the learning component of the mission. The other 50% deals with the communicating part of my ministry: sharing Christ Jesus.
Lord Jesus, that I may know you and the power of your resurrection. Amen!
“More than that, I even consider everything as a loss because of the supreme good of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord.” (Philippians 3: 8)
To know Christ intimately, to love him passionately and to follow him everywhere is a goal I work on everyday. To know Christ intimately, I must associate with him frequently through:
- Prayer
- Word of God
- Sacraments: Eucharist & Reconciliation
- Visit to the Blessed Sacrament
- Devotion to his Mother
- Writing
- Teaching
- Spiritual Reading
To know Christ intimately is a major purpose of my life. It is the 50% of the mission. It is the learning component of the mission. The other 50% deals with the communicating part of my ministry: sharing Christ Jesus.
Lord Jesus, that I may know you and the power of your resurrection. Amen!
Wednesday, July 12, 2006
Watch and Pray
Watch and Pray
“Then Jesus said to them, ‘All of you will have your faith shaken, for it is written: ‘I will strike the shepherd, and the sheep will be dispersed.’ ……’Amen, I say to you, this very night before the cock crows twice you will deny me three times.” (Mark 14: 27 – 30)
Why did Jesus make this prediction? Was it to intimidate or humiliate the disciples? No! It was to make them prepared for what is to come. He knows his disciples very well. He knows the future. The disciples did not believe him.
Jesus who knows us very well says: “Be sober, be awake, be on your guard. Be vigilant at all times so that you cannot be surprised. I warn you. The enemy is always looking for an opportunity to drag you down. Do not give him any loop hole.”
But what are we to be watchful over? This must be our most precious possessions, our treasures. For the heart will always be where the treasure is. Our treasures are: the Holy Spirit living in us, faith, hope, love, the Eucharist, prayer, the word of God. We watch over them through prayers. We watch over them through using them everyday.
Tuesday, July 11, 2006
The Eucharist
The Eucharist
“While they were eating, Jesus took a piece of bread, gave a prayer of thanks, broke it, and gave it to his disciples. “Take it,” he said, “this is my body.”
“Then he took a cup, gave thanks to God, and handed it to them; and they all drank from it. Jesus said, “This is my blood which is poured out for many, my blood which seals God’s covenant.” (Mark 14: 22 – 24)
As I reflect on the above passage, I come to realize that for us, the Eucharist represents not just a great mystery but also one of the greatest acts of faith we are called upon to make. I have the great privilege to take part a couple of times a week in the reenactment of this act in obedience to Christ.
In the Eucharist, I receive a piece of white host looking no different from what it looked like before the consecration. It tastes and feels exactly the same before and after the consecration. Then I receive the cup of wine, in every material way similar before and after the consecration. Yet I believe that the host and the wine are the Body and Blood of Jesus Christ.
What is the authority for such an amazing confession? The above passage, Mark 14: 22 – 24 is one. Similar passages in Matthew and Luke is another. A very important authority for this belief is the chapter 6 of the Gospel of St. John. To crown it all, is the constant belief and practice of the Church in the Eucharist in the past 2000 years. The Tradition with regard to the Eucharist is rock solid. Is it possible that the Holy Spirit who has been promised to lead and guide the Church into all truth will deceive the Church in such an important matter? And for so long? If the faith and practice of the Church in this one act is an error, where do we have a guarantee of truth?
Thank you Jesus for the gift of the Eucharist.
“While they were eating, Jesus took a piece of bread, gave a prayer of thanks, broke it, and gave it to his disciples. “Take it,” he said, “this is my body.”
“Then he took a cup, gave thanks to God, and handed it to them; and they all drank from it. Jesus said, “This is my blood which is poured out for many, my blood which seals God’s covenant.” (Mark 14: 22 – 24)
As I reflect on the above passage, I come to realize that for us, the Eucharist represents not just a great mystery but also one of the greatest acts of faith we are called upon to make. I have the great privilege to take part a couple of times a week in the reenactment of this act in obedience to Christ.
In the Eucharist, I receive a piece of white host looking no different from what it looked like before the consecration. It tastes and feels exactly the same before and after the consecration. Then I receive the cup of wine, in every material way similar before and after the consecration. Yet I believe that the host and the wine are the Body and Blood of Jesus Christ.
What is the authority for such an amazing confession? The above passage, Mark 14: 22 – 24 is one. Similar passages in Matthew and Luke is another. A very important authority for this belief is the chapter 6 of the Gospel of St. John. To crown it all, is the constant belief and practice of the Church in the Eucharist in the past 2000 years. The Tradition with regard to the Eucharist is rock solid. Is it possible that the Holy Spirit who has been promised to lead and guide the Church into all truth will deceive the Church in such an important matter? And for so long? If the faith and practice of the Church in this one act is an error, where do we have a guarantee of truth?
Thank you Jesus for the gift of the Eucharist.
Monday, July 10, 2006
Everything happens Just as Jesus Says
Everything happens Just as Jesus Says
“The disciples left, went to the city, and found everything just as Jesus had told them; and they prepared the Passover meal.” (Mark 14: 16)
“I tell you that one of you will betray me – one who is eating with me.” (Mark 14: 18)
The message today is simple: Believe and obey the words of Jesus. In the above passages from Mark, Jesus predicts two events:
What the disciples will see when they went to make plans for the last supper.
The betrayal of Judas.
The disciples found that everything happened “just as Jesus had told them.”
Jesus makes so many promises to me in the Scripture. If I believe in them and act on them in obedience, will everything not happen “just as Jesus had told me?”
Lord, your word is true. Grant me more faith and help me to act on your word.
“The disciples left, went to the city, and found everything just as Jesus had told them; and they prepared the Passover meal.” (Mark 14: 16)
“I tell you that one of you will betray me – one who is eating with me.” (Mark 14: 18)
The message today is simple: Believe and obey the words of Jesus. In the above passages from Mark, Jesus predicts two events:
What the disciples will see when they went to make plans for the last supper.
The betrayal of Judas.
The disciples found that everything happened “just as Jesus had told them.”
Jesus makes so many promises to me in the Scripture. If I believe in them and act on them in obedience, will everything not happen “just as Jesus had told me?”
Lord, your word is true. Grant me more faith and help me to act on your word.
Sunday, July 09, 2006
Open Doors
Open Doors
“Then Judas Iscariot, one of the twelve disciples, went off to the chief priests in order to betray Jesus to them. They were pleased to hear what he had to say, and promised to give him money. So Judas started looking for a good chance to hand Jesus over to them.” (Mark 14: 10 – 11)
Love of money was the open door through which Satan tempted Judas to betray Jesus. Peter also betrayed Jesus. Fear of the world, fear of suffering and love of security was the open door through which Satan overcame Peter.
All “alien gods” of whatever nature, be they money, health, family, job, tools, food or love of security and comfort could take “take advantage of us” (Psalm 16) and become open doors for the devil to enter our lives. Complacency is also an “alien god” and therefore an open door.
What are the open doors in my life today? O Holy Spirit reveal them to me.
Eternal vigilance is the price of freedom.
“Then Judas Iscariot, one of the twelve disciples, went off to the chief priests in order to betray Jesus to them. They were pleased to hear what he had to say, and promised to give him money. So Judas started looking for a good chance to hand Jesus over to them.” (Mark 14: 10 – 11)
Love of money was the open door through which Satan tempted Judas to betray Jesus. Peter also betrayed Jesus. Fear of the world, fear of suffering and love of security was the open door through which Satan overcame Peter.
All “alien gods” of whatever nature, be they money, health, family, job, tools, food or love of security and comfort could take “take advantage of us” (Psalm 16) and become open doors for the devil to enter our lives. Complacency is also an “alien god” and therefore an open door.
What are the open doors in my life today? O Holy Spirit reveal them to me.
Eternal vigilance is the price of freedom.
Saturday, July 08, 2006
You will not always have me
You will not always have me.
“Leave her alone! Why are you bothering her? She has done a fine and beautiful thing for me. You will always have the poor people with you, and anytime you want to, you can help them. But you will not always have me. She did what she could; she poured perfume on my body to prepare it ahead of time for burial. Now, I assure that wherever the gospel is preached all over the world, what she has done will be told in memory of her.” (Mark 14: 6 – 9)
This woman did “a fine and beautiful thing” for Jesus. Jesus praised her initiative. But men blamed her. The people who blamed the woman appeared on the surface charitable but in fact their motive was suspect. I see in this incident the conflict between the word of God and the word of man. The word of God searches the inner motives of men while men tend to look at the appearances.
Man can never outdo God in generosity. God owns everything and deserves the very best.
What can I do for Jesus today to merit the words: “You have done a fine and beautiful thing for me.” Yes, the poor people are always around me. Lord Jesus, teach me to recognize you this day in the poor.
“Leave her alone! Why are you bothering her? She has done a fine and beautiful thing for me. You will always have the poor people with you, and anytime you want to, you can help them. But you will not always have me. She did what she could; she poured perfume on my body to prepare it ahead of time for burial. Now, I assure that wherever the gospel is preached all over the world, what she has done will be told in memory of her.” (Mark 14: 6 – 9)
This woman did “a fine and beautiful thing” for Jesus. Jesus praised her initiative. But men blamed her. The people who blamed the woman appeared on the surface charitable but in fact their motive was suspect. I see in this incident the conflict between the word of God and the word of man. The word of God searches the inner motives of men while men tend to look at the appearances.
Man can never outdo God in generosity. God owns everything and deserves the very best.
What can I do for Jesus today to merit the words: “You have done a fine and beautiful thing for me.” Yes, the poor people are always around me. Lord Jesus, teach me to recognize you this day in the poor.
Friday, July 07, 2006
The Pains of Labor
The Pains of Labor
“When a woman is in labor, she is in anguish because her hour has arrived; but when she has given birth to a child, she no longer remembers the pain because of her joy that a child has been born into the world.” (John 16: 21)
To be victorious implies a struggle.
When you are able to withstand the pains of the negative cycle in your life, you become mentally and spiritually stronger. Your convictions are more solid. You have overcome by faith and your faith is strengthened. You know that God is reliable and that you can trust him.
What are the pains of the negative cycles or seasons of life? I call them the pains of the 6 war zones: family, health, money, job, food and tools.
Health and lack of food cause physical pain and discomfort. Family, money, job and tool problems cause emotional pain, anxiety and unhappiness. All the war zones produce unhappiness and disequilibrium in one’s life.
Have I developed effective scripts on the 6 war zones? Have I fully understood God’s point of view for me in each of the war zones?
In some season, some of the war zones will be more active than others. On other occasions, there will be peace in all my borders.
“When a woman is in labor, she is in anguish because her hour has arrived; but when she has given birth to a child, she no longer remembers the pain because of her joy that a child has been born into the world.” (John 16: 21)
To be victorious implies a struggle.
When you are able to withstand the pains of the negative cycle in your life, you become mentally and spiritually stronger. Your convictions are more solid. You have overcome by faith and your faith is strengthened. You know that God is reliable and that you can trust him.
What are the pains of the negative cycles or seasons of life? I call them the pains of the 6 war zones: family, health, money, job, food and tools.
- Family: No peace; no trust; no happiness.
- Health: Physical pain, discomfort,; no sleep; plenty of anxiety.
- Money: Feeling of lack; inadequacy, humiliation, deprivation, unhappiness.
- Job: no work, feeling of helplessness; feeling of inadequacy, rejection, insufficiency and helplessness.
- Food: No food; pangs of hunger; discomfort.
- Tools: No car, no TV, computer, telephone, etc.
Health and lack of food cause physical pain and discomfort. Family, money, job and tool problems cause emotional pain, anxiety and unhappiness. All the war zones produce unhappiness and disequilibrium in one’s life.
Have I developed effective scripts on the 6 war zones? Have I fully understood God’s point of view for me in each of the war zones?
In some season, some of the war zones will be more active than others. On other occasions, there will be peace in all my borders.
Thursday, July 06, 2006
The Sufficiency of God's Provision
The Sufficiency of God’s Provision
“The Lord is my shepherd; I have everything I need.” (Psalm 23:1)
What I have today is exactly what I need. The money I have now is sufficient. The tools I have today are the tools I need. With regard to money, God tells me: “Be satisfied with what you have.” (Hebrews 13: 5)
The understanding of the truth of the sufficiency of God’s provision is the foundation of my contentment. That God is truly providing everything I need moment by moment is a staggering truth that appears to good to be true. But it is. To believe this and to submit to God’s most loving and powerful providence is to live in boundless joy, peace and contentment.
The Lord renews my youth as an eagle. (Psalm 103:5)
“He guides me in the right paths, as he promised.” Today, I am in desperate need for guidance. What is the next step in the Enterprise? The Lord has promised me guidance and surely he is leading me step by step. This is sufficient for me.
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In everything you do, acknowledge him and he will direct all your paths.” (Proverbs 3: 5)
“The Lord is my shepherd; I have everything I need.” (Psalm 23:1)
What I have today is exactly what I need. The money I have now is sufficient. The tools I have today are the tools I need. With regard to money, God tells me: “Be satisfied with what you have.” (Hebrews 13: 5)
The understanding of the truth of the sufficiency of God’s provision is the foundation of my contentment. That God is truly providing everything I need moment by moment is a staggering truth that appears to good to be true. But it is. To believe this and to submit to God’s most loving and powerful providence is to live in boundless joy, peace and contentment.
The Lord renews my youth as an eagle. (Psalm 103:5)
“He guides me in the right paths, as he promised.” Today, I am in desperate need for guidance. What is the next step in the Enterprise? The Lord has promised me guidance and surely he is leading me step by step. This is sufficient for me.
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In everything you do, acknowledge him and he will direct all your paths.” (Proverbs 3: 5)
Wednesday, July 05, 2006
When will it happen?
When will it happen?
“No one knows, however, when that day or hour will come – neither the angels in heaven, nor the Son; only the Father knows. Be on watch, be alert, for you do not know when the hour will come! …..If it comes suddenly, he must not find you asleep. What I say to you, I say to all. Watch.” (Mark 13: 32 – 37)
In the above passage, Jesus answers one of the most critical questions we ask God: Exactly when will it happen? At what moment will I receive the answer to my prayer? What is the precise minute of my death?
Answer: The WHEN is God’s secret. It is part of his divine arrangement, his government of the world. The lesson that emerges from the discussion of times and seasons is very clear. If God has said that something will happen, it must happen. We are advised to be sober, alert and watchful and not to worry about the precise time. We prepare for God’s intervention in our lives through prayer, the study of the word of God and through communion with Jesus in the sacraments.
“No one knows, however, when that day or hour will come – neither the angels in heaven, nor the Son; only the Father knows. Be on watch, be alert, for you do not know when the hour will come! …..If it comes suddenly, he must not find you asleep. What I say to you, I say to all. Watch.” (Mark 13: 32 – 37)
In the above passage, Jesus answers one of the most critical questions we ask God: Exactly when will it happen? At what moment will I receive the answer to my prayer? What is the precise minute of my death?
Answer: The WHEN is God’s secret. It is part of his divine arrangement, his government of the world. The lesson that emerges from the discussion of times and seasons is very clear. If God has said that something will happen, it must happen. We are advised to be sober, alert and watchful and not to worry about the precise time. We prepare for God’s intervention in our lives through prayer, the study of the word of God and through communion with Jesus in the sacraments.
Tuesday, July 04, 2006
Signs of the Times
Signs of the Times
“Let the fig-tree teach you a lesson. When its branches become green and tender and it starts putting out leaves, you know that summer is near. In the same way, when you see these things happening, you will know that the time is near, ready to begin ….. Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away.” (Mark 13: 28 – 31)
I am invited to reflect on the signs of the times in my life. Are the branches of the fig-tree turning green and tender or are they becoming dry and withering? About 11 years ago, I experienced the braches of my fig-tree becoming dry and withering. What were the signs? Every vital area of my life was getting dry and withering: family, health, money, tools, job and food. I thank God that I read correctly the signs of the times and was inspired on what to do. I sought the Lord and his mercies intensely and he heard my prayer. Then out of the blues came the idea of the Enterprise. Then the branches started turning green and tender and putting out leaves. I saw the new signs and knew that summer was near.
Lord, teach me to read the signs of the times.
“Let the fig-tree teach you a lesson. When its branches become green and tender and it starts putting out leaves, you know that summer is near. In the same way, when you see these things happening, you will know that the time is near, ready to begin ….. Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away.” (Mark 13: 28 – 31)
I am invited to reflect on the signs of the times in my life. Are the branches of the fig-tree turning green and tender or are they becoming dry and withering? About 11 years ago, I experienced the braches of my fig-tree becoming dry and withering. What were the signs? Every vital area of my life was getting dry and withering: family, health, money, tools, job and food. I thank God that I read correctly the signs of the times and was inspired on what to do. I sought the Lord and his mercies intensely and he heard my prayer. Then out of the blues came the idea of the Enterprise. Then the branches started turning green and tender and putting out leaves. I saw the new signs and knew that summer was near.
Lord, teach me to read the signs of the times.
Monday, July 03, 2006
The Test
The Test
“Pray to God that those things will not happen in the winter! For the trouble of those days will be far worse than any the world has ever known from the beginning when God created the world until the present time …. But the Lord has reduced the number of those days; if he had not, nobody would survive. For the sake of his chosen people, however, he has reduced those days.” (Mark 13: 18 – 20)
“Because you have kept my command to endure, I will also keep you safe from the time of trouble which is coming upon the world to test all the people of the earth.” (Revelation 3: 10)
“The Devil will put you to the test by having some of you thrown into prison, and your troubles will last 10 days. Be faithful to me even if it means death, and I will give you life as your prize of victory.” (Revelation 2: 10)
Message:
“Pray to God that those things will not happen in the winter! For the trouble of those days will be far worse than any the world has ever known from the beginning when God created the world until the present time …. But the Lord has reduced the number of those days; if he had not, nobody would survive. For the sake of his chosen people, however, he has reduced those days.” (Mark 13: 18 – 20)
“Because you have kept my command to endure, I will also keep you safe from the time of trouble which is coming upon the world to test all the people of the earth.” (Revelation 3: 10)
“The Devil will put you to the test by having some of you thrown into prison, and your troubles will last 10 days. Be faithful to me even if it means death, and I will give you life as your prize of victory.” (Revelation 2: 10)
Message:
- Severe test may be coming in the future.
- No one will be spared.
- For the chosen, the test will last for a short time.
- Trust in Jesus Christ and remain faithful.
Sunday, July 02, 2006
Words to Remember
Words to Remember
“Be on guard, and don’t let anyone deceive you. Many men, claiming to speak for me, will come and say, ‘I am he!’ and they will deceive many people ….. you yourself must be on guard. You will be arrested and taken to court. You will be beaten in the synagogues.; you will stand before rulers and kings for my sake to tell them of the Good News ….. And when you are arrested and taken to court, do not worry beforehand what you are going to say; when the time comes, say whatever is then given to you. For the words you speak will not be yours; they will come from the Holy Spirit …….. Everyone will hate you because of me. But whoever holds on to the end will be saved.” (Mark 13: 3 – 13)
The message seems clear:
Lord, thank you for your word.
“Be on guard, and don’t let anyone deceive you. Many men, claiming to speak for me, will come and say, ‘I am he!’ and they will deceive many people ….. you yourself must be on guard. You will be arrested and taken to court. You will be beaten in the synagogues.; you will stand before rulers and kings for my sake to tell them of the Good News ….. And when you are arrested and taken to court, do not worry beforehand what you are going to say; when the time comes, say whatever is then given to you. For the words you speak will not be yours; they will come from the Holy Spirit …….. Everyone will hate you because of me. But whoever holds on to the end will be saved.” (Mark 13: 3 – 13)
The message seems clear:
- Be vigilant, be sober and do not allow anyone to deceive you. People will want to steer you form the path God has chosen for you.
- You will be persecuted because of me. I have warned you. Be prepared for it must come.
- In any emergency, do not panic. The Holy Spirit will be there to tell you what to do.
- Enduring patience and perseverance will win the crown.
Lord, thank you for your word.
Saturday, July 01, 2006
The Sacred and the Permanent
The Sacred and the Permanent
“You see these great buildings? Not a single stone here will be left in its place; everyone of them will be thrown down.” (Mark 13: 2)
I see here a message on how to view the material world. I need to see the difference between the eternal, the temporal and transient. Just as the temple in Jerusalem was destroyed at God’s pre-ordained time, so also will the material world vanish at the appointed time.
When I am in downtown Houston on Smith Street, like the apostles, I admire the “wonderful stones and buildings.” When I do it today, I will ask God to lift my mind to what is permanent and enduring.
What do I know today that is permanent and enduring? I can think of Jesus Christ, who was, who is and who shall ever be. He is the Alpha and Omega.
I thank you Jesus for this light. Grant me the grace to grow in the awareness of the sacred, the divine and the permanent. May I become more aware of your presence in my life today.
“You see these great buildings? Not a single stone here will be left in its place; everyone of them will be thrown down.” (Mark 13: 2)
I see here a message on how to view the material world. I need to see the difference between the eternal, the temporal and transient. Just as the temple in Jerusalem was destroyed at God’s pre-ordained time, so also will the material world vanish at the appointed time.
When I am in downtown Houston on Smith Street, like the apostles, I admire the “wonderful stones and buildings.” When I do it today, I will ask God to lift my mind to what is permanent and enduring.
What do I know today that is permanent and enduring? I can think of Jesus Christ, who was, who is and who shall ever be. He is the Alpha and Omega.
I thank you Jesus for this light. Grant me the grace to grow in the awareness of the sacred, the divine and the permanent. May I become more aware of your presence in my life today.
Friday, June 30, 2006
Spiritual Warfare and the Notion of Strategy
Spiritual Warfare and the Notion of Strategy
“Finally, draw your strength from the Lord and from his mighty power. Put on the armor of God so that you may be able to stand firm against the tactics of the devil.” (Ephesians 6: 10 -11)
A regular army has in its arsenal all types of weapons. This comprises light and heavy armor suited for every type of warfare. Spiritual warfare is one of the dominant themes of Sacred Scripture especially the New Testament.
In Chapter 6 of the letters to the Ephesians, St. Paul urges us to put on the full armor. This means that we must acquire every weapon in the spiritual arsenal and be prepared to use each or all as the situation demands.
The notion of strategy as applied to spiritual warfare asks the questions:
Do I have from my experience weapons that have stood the test of bloody struggles again and again? Do I have in my arsenal weapons that are guaranteed to bring rapid and immediate success no matter the ferocity of the struggle? Are there spiritual weapons that work better in some situations than others? Or are all the weapons uniformly effective in all situations?
When there is peace, prepare for war!
“Finally, draw your strength from the Lord and from his mighty power. Put on the armor of God so that you may be able to stand firm against the tactics of the devil.” (Ephesians 6: 10 -11)
A regular army has in its arsenal all types of weapons. This comprises light and heavy armor suited for every type of warfare. Spiritual warfare is one of the dominant themes of Sacred Scripture especially the New Testament.
In Chapter 6 of the letters to the Ephesians, St. Paul urges us to put on the full armor. This means that we must acquire every weapon in the spiritual arsenal and be prepared to use each or all as the situation demands.
The notion of strategy as applied to spiritual warfare asks the questions:
- What type of warfare are we facing?
- What is the most appropriate and proven weapon to use?
Do I have from my experience weapons that have stood the test of bloody struggles again and again? Do I have in my arsenal weapons that are guaranteed to bring rapid and immediate success no matter the ferocity of the struggle? Are there spiritual weapons that work better in some situations than others? Or are all the weapons uniformly effective in all situations?
When there is peace, prepare for war!
Thursday, June 29, 2006
Our Mother of Perpetual Help
Our Mother of Perpetual Help
“Before, by yourself, you couldn’t. Now, you have turned to Our Lady, and with her, how easy it is.” Way 513
I wrote the following reflection in 1996.
“My experience with the Enterprise has proven the above saying of St. Josemaria d’Escriva very accurate. I can say definitely that with Our Lady, the Enterprise has become so far an easy experience. I have no doubt that it will continue to be so. Almost at the very inception of the Enterprise, I entrusted it to Mary, Queen of the Apostles. And not much later, I identified the spiritual weapons I needed in order to win the struggle with ease. These are: faith, patience, wisdom and humility. I flew to the Blessed Virgin Mary and asked her to obtain these graces for me.
Let me now witness to the fact that the faith and patience I exercise in this project amaze me. I realize that on the natural level, I am just not capable of it. Everyday I become more and more convinced that I am lead and guided by the Holy Spirit. And more and more I depend on God for even the minutest detail in each step of the Enterprise.
Our Blessed Mother is certainly helping me in the Enterprise.
“Before, by yourself, you couldn’t. Now, you have turned to Our Lady, and with her, how easy it is.” Way 513
I wrote the following reflection in 1996.
“My experience with the Enterprise has proven the above saying of St. Josemaria d’Escriva very accurate. I can say definitely that with Our Lady, the Enterprise has become so far an easy experience. I have no doubt that it will continue to be so. Almost at the very inception of the Enterprise, I entrusted it to Mary, Queen of the Apostles. And not much later, I identified the spiritual weapons I needed in order to win the struggle with ease. These are: faith, patience, wisdom and humility. I flew to the Blessed Virgin Mary and asked her to obtain these graces for me.
Let me now witness to the fact that the faith and patience I exercise in this project amaze me. I realize that on the natural level, I am just not capable of it. Everyday I become more and more convinced that I am lead and guided by the Holy Spirit. And more and more I depend on God for even the minutest detail in each step of the Enterprise.
Our Blessed Mother is certainly helping me in the Enterprise.
Wednesday, June 28, 2006
Giving All
Giving All
“I tell you that this poor widow put more in the offering box than all the others. For the others put in what they had to spare of their riches; but she, poor as she is, put in all she has – she gave all she had to live on.” (Mark 12: 43 – 44)
Jesus praised the poor widow. The poor widow gave everything she had. If she had more, she would have given that too. Jesus gave this lesson to his disciples and not to everybody. Those who are close to Christ should learn to give everything like the poor widow. Jesus wants a total and massive commitment.
God does not look at the size of the gift, he looks at the heart. The poor widow gave all because she loves much. I am reminded of the parable of the talents. Everybody receives a talent. Generous contribution is expected from everybody. The talents are God’s gifts to us. By giving back this gift with generosity, we exercise faith and love. Today, one of my great talents is abundant time. How am I using it? Lord, I know that I cannot rival you in generosity. Teach me to give all. Amen.
“I tell you that this poor widow put more in the offering box than all the others. For the others put in what they had to spare of their riches; but she, poor as she is, put in all she has – she gave all she had to live on.” (Mark 12: 43 – 44)
Jesus praised the poor widow. The poor widow gave everything she had. If she had more, she would have given that too. Jesus gave this lesson to his disciples and not to everybody. Those who are close to Christ should learn to give everything like the poor widow. Jesus wants a total and massive commitment.
God does not look at the size of the gift, he looks at the heart. The poor widow gave all because she loves much. I am reminded of the parable of the talents. Everybody receives a talent. Generous contribution is expected from everybody. The talents are God’s gifts to us. By giving back this gift with generosity, we exercise faith and love. Today, one of my great talents is abundant time. How am I using it? Lord, I know that I cannot rival you in generosity. Teach me to give all. Amen.
Tuesday, June 27, 2006
Inspired Word
Inspired Word
“How can the teachers of the law say that the Messiah will be the descendant of David? The Holy Spirit inspired David to say: ‘The Lord said to my Lord: Sit here on my right until I put your enemies under your feed. ‘ David himself called him Lord; so how can the Messiah be David’s descendant?” (Mark 12: 35 – 37)
I am reminded that all scripture is inspired by the Holy Spirit. All scripture is good for teaching, instructing and reprimanding. Scripture is the word of God.
Thank you Jesus for impressing this lesson once more upon me. I thank you for my growing love for your word. Open my eyes to the beauty of sacred scripture. I am also struck by these words: “Sit here on my right, until I put your enemies under your feet.” Isn’t this scripture similar to my rhema: “Be still and know that I am God.” (Psalm 46: 10). It is an invitation to deep faith and patience. Deep faith, patience, wisdom and humility are my greatest needs today.
“How can the teachers of the law say that the Messiah will be the descendant of David? The Holy Spirit inspired David to say: ‘The Lord said to my Lord: Sit here on my right until I put your enemies under your feed. ‘ David himself called him Lord; so how can the Messiah be David’s descendant?” (Mark 12: 35 – 37)
I am reminded that all scripture is inspired by the Holy Spirit. All scripture is good for teaching, instructing and reprimanding. Scripture is the word of God.
Thank you Jesus for impressing this lesson once more upon me. I thank you for my growing love for your word. Open my eyes to the beauty of sacred scripture. I am also struck by these words: “Sit here on my right, until I put your enemies under your feet.” Isn’t this scripture similar to my rhema: “Be still and know that I am God.” (Psalm 46: 10). It is an invitation to deep faith and patience. Deep faith, patience, wisdom and humility are my greatest needs today.
Monday, June 26, 2006
That I may see you in the scriptures
That I may see you in the scriptures
“Jesus answered then, ‘How wrong you are! And do you know why? It is because you don’t know the scriptures or God’s power. For when the dead rise to life, they will be like the angels in heaven, and will not marry…… ‘He is God of the living, not of the dead. You are completely wrong!”
(Mark 12: 24 – 27)
The scriptures reveal God’s plans and ways. The scriptures also reveal God’s power. Ignorance of scripture is ignorance of God’s ways and plans, therefore ignorance of God himself. Jerome said: “Ignorance of Scripture is ignorance of Christ.”
Today, I yearn to know the heart of Jesus intimately. I have the light today that the number one means is the Eucharist, the Sacrament of his love. Number 2 is Sacred Scripture.
Thank you Jesus for your message today. I will remember it. Lord Jesus, grant that I may see! See you clearly in the scriptures. Dearest Jesus, I pray you open my eyes to the beauty and wonder of scriptures. Yesterday, you asked what I want from you. Lord, that I may see you clearly in the scriptures.
“Jesus answered then, ‘How wrong you are! And do you know why? It is because you don’t know the scriptures or God’s power. For when the dead rise to life, they will be like the angels in heaven, and will not marry…… ‘He is God of the living, not of the dead. You are completely wrong!”
(Mark 12: 24 – 27)
The scriptures reveal God’s plans and ways. The scriptures also reveal God’s power. Ignorance of scripture is ignorance of God’s ways and plans, therefore ignorance of God himself. Jerome said: “Ignorance of Scripture is ignorance of Christ.”
Today, I yearn to know the heart of Jesus intimately. I have the light today that the number one means is the Eucharist, the Sacrament of his love. Number 2 is Sacred Scripture.
Thank you Jesus for your message today. I will remember it. Lord Jesus, grant that I may see! See you clearly in the scriptures. Dearest Jesus, I pray you open my eyes to the beauty and wonder of scriptures. Yesterday, you asked what I want from you. Lord, that I may see you clearly in the scriptures.
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