Dictate of the Heart | Fr. Arlon, osa

• Acts 10:34a, 37-43
• Psalm 118:1-2, 16-17, 22-23
• Colossians 3:1-4
• John 20:1-9

Happy Easter to everyone!  Christ has Risen, Alleluia! 

Our Father Saint Augustine proclaimed that, “We are Easter people, and our song is Alleluia.” He is saying that Alleluia is therefore a song of pilgrims, of those en route, who know that this earth offers no permanent dwelling-place and whose desires are towards God for eternal life.    

Today, it is with great jubilation to share “New Life” in Christ Jesus who has risen from the dead.  Easter is a celebration of all God’s creation, enjoying the new life we see around us. Trees are blooming with lovely and colorful flowers, the leaves are turning green, and fruit trees’ small buds are starting to open; thus, new life of nature is bursting forth after the doziness of winter. We sing in unison with angels in heaven rejoicing the solemn event of Easter, for without Christ’s resurrection our faith is futile, and we remain buried inside the tomb.    

We heard from the Book of the Acts of the Apostles, the amazing testimony of Peter to Cornelius.  Peter was summoned by a centurion by the name Cornelius who had a vision while praying. Cornelius answered: “Three days ago I was in my house praying at this hour, at three in the afternoon. Suddenly a man in shining clothes stood before me and said, ‘Cornelius, God has heard your prayer and remembered your gifts to the poor. Send to Joppa for Simon, who is called Peter. Now we are all here in the presence of God to listen to everything the Lord has commanded you to tell us.” (Acts10:30-34) So, Peter related the life of Jesus.  He also mentioned to his listeners Jesus’ suffering, passion, and death, then the proclamation of the true identity of Jesus, who heals all kinds of diseases.  Upon hearing Peter’s testimonies, he interpreted Cornelius’ vision that deeply moved the centurion and others listening to him.  Eventually, Cornelius and others asked to receive baptism.   This is a beautiful story to read for the next two months about the early Church from the Acts of the Apostles.  I suggest that you spend your time reading this beautiful scriptural passage in order to increase your faith through the experience of all new converted disciples of the Risen Lord. 

It is interesting to also read the gospel today.  St. John writes this account beautifully, saying that “Mary Magdala came to the tomb early in the morning, while it was still dark, and saw the stone removed from the tomb.” (v.1) So, indeed Mary Magdala comes to the tomb at dawn, the light is slowly coming, Jesus having risen.  The mentioning of “while it was still dark,” presupposes the state of Mary Magdala’s heart’s disposition being in grief and sad…she is still in the dark about its true meaning. 

Mary Magdala runs towards Peter and the “disciple whom Jesus loved,” moving slowly into something they are wondering about. They both ran but the other disciple ran faster than Peter and arrived at the tomb first. He bent down and saw the burial cloths there, and the cloth that had covered His head, not with the burial cloths, but rolled up in a separate place.” In this particular verse, John just bent down and saw the burial cloths,” which manifests the disposition of his heart that even before coming to the tomb he knew exactly about Jesus’ resurrection because John had a special and faithful relationship with the Lord. Because of John’s profound knowledge, Jesus is not anymore in the tomb.  

Mary Magdala, Peter, and John believe what they see and begin living what they believe. This is exactly how history began becoming the Good News of our Christian Faith. These two runners did not just sit down and try to figure this whole thing out without sharing what they have seen during the first day of that week. They remembered, they believed, and they left Jesus’ tomb and began to walk with the living God after the great resurrection event. 

As disciples of the Lord, we too continue to bring the Good News of the Lord’s Resurrection.  It gives us profound assurance that Jesus is true and a living God who walks with us and offers us new life, not only with Jesus being raised from the dead, but we too have been raised from death and darkness into the “new life” we receive through faith and baptism.   

I therefore conclude this with the words of our Father St. Augustine’s well-known words with which he ended his work, The City of God: “Let us make of these days a symbol of that day without end. Let us make of this mortal place a symbol of time without end. Let us hurry to get to the eternal house. Blessed are those who live in your house, Lord; they will praise you for ever and ever. Thus says the law, the Scriptures, and the Truth: we are meant to arrive at the house of God, that is, Heaven. There we will praise God, not for fifty days but – as it is written- for ever and ever. We will see him, we will love him, and we will praise him; neither shall sight vanish, neither shall love run out, neither shall praise fall silent; everything shall be eternal, nothing shall come to an end”. (s.254,8)  

We will enjoy God and praise Him for all eternity.  In our participation in the Triduum Liturgical activities, we put our time with hope and comfort so that we can continue to love, praise, and contemplate this Easter season about the promise of God’s eternal life. 

Again, happy Easter and may God bless you.

Fr. Arlon, osa

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El Dictado del Corazón

Domingo de Pascua por la Mañana

Lecturas:

• Hechos 10, 34a. 37–43
• Salmo 117, 1–2. 16–17. 22–23
• Colosenses 3, 1–4
• Juan 20, 1–9

¡Feliz Pascua a todos! ¡Cristo ha resucitado, Aleluya!

Nuestro Padre, San Agustín, proclamó una vez: “Somos un pueblo pascual, y nuestra canción es el Aleluya”. Él nos recuerda que el Aleluya es el canto de los peregrinos—de aquellos que están en camino, que comprenden que esta tierra no ofrece un hogar duradero, y que anhelan la vida eterna con Dios.

Hoy, nos alegramos con la Nueva Vida de Cristo Jesús, quien ha resucitado de entre los muertos. La Pascua es una celebración de toda la creación, al ver cómo brota la vida nueva a nuestro alrededor. Los árboles florecen con vivos colores, las hojas verdes regresan, y los brotes de los árboles frutales comienzan a abrirse. Después del letargo del invierno, la naturaleza estalla de nuevo. Nos unimos en un solo coro con los ángeles del cielo, regocijándonos en este evento solemne y triunfante. Sin la resurrección de Cristo, nuestra fe sería en vano, y permaneceríamos sepultados en la desesperanza.

En el Libro de los Hechos, escuchamos el poderoso testimonio de Pedro a Cornelio. Cornelio, un centurión romano, tuvo una visión mientras oraba:

“Hace tres días, a esta misma hora, a las tres de la tarde, yo estaba en mi casa orando. De pronto, se presentó delante de mí un hombre con ropa resplandeciente y me dijo: ‘Cornelio, Dios ha escuchado tu oración y ha recordado tus limosnas a los pobres. Manda a buscar a Simón, llamado Pedro, que está en Jope. Ahora, pues, todos estamos aquí en la presencia de Dios, dispuestos a escuchar todo lo que el Señor te ha ordenado que nos digas.’” (Hechos 10, 30–34)

Pedro comparte entonces la vida, sufrimiento, muerte y resurrección de Jesús, declarando su identidad divina y poder sanador. Cornelio y los que están con él se conmueven profundamente y piden ser bautizados. Esta es una historia hermosa tomada de los Hechos de los Apóstoles, y los animo a leer este libro sagrado en las próximas semanas para fortalecer su fe mediante el testimonio de la Iglesia primitiva y los nuevos discípulos del Señor Resucitado.

El Evangelio de hoy, según san Juan, es igualmente conmovedor. Juan relata cómo “el primer día de la semana, María Magdalena fue al sepulcro muy de madrugada, cuando todavía estaba oscuro, y vio removida la piedra que cerraba el sepulcro.” (Juan 20, 1)

María llega al amanecer, un momento en el que la luz apenas comienza a surgir—simbolizando su tristeza y oscuridad espiritual. Todavía se encuentra en las sombras del dolor, sin comprender aún el significado completo del sepulcro vacío.

Ella corre a contarle a Pedro y al “discípulo a quien Jesús amaba.” Ambos corren hacia el sepulcro, y el discípulo amado llega primero. Se inclina, ve las vendas, y cree. Este gesto refleja su disposición interior—su fe ya sintonizada con el misterio de la Resurrección. La relación profunda y fiel de Juan con Jesús le permite reconocer la verdad incluso antes de entrar al sepulcro.

María, Pedro y Juan ven, creen, y comienzan a vivir lo que ahora saben que es verdad. Desde ese momento, la Buena Nueva comienza a difundirse. No se quedan en el sepulcro tratando de entenderlo todo—salen, caminando con el Señor Resucitado.

Como discípulos de Cristo, también nosotros estamos llamados a proclamar la Buena Nueva de Su Resurrección. Su victoria sobre la muerte nos asegura que Él está verdaderamente vivo, caminando con nosotros, ofreciéndonos nueva vida. No sólo Jesús fue resucitado de entre los muertos, sino que también nosotros somos resucitados—del pecado y la oscuridad hacia la nueva vida que recibimos por la fe y el bautismo.

Concluyo con las hermosas palabras de nuestro Padre San Agustín, del libro La Ciudad de Dios:

“Hagamos de estos días un símbolo de aquel día sin fin. Hagamos de este lugar mortal un símbolo del tiempo sin término. Apresurémonos a llegar a la casa eterna. Bienaventurados los que habitan en tu casa, Señor; te alabarán por los siglos de los siglos. Así lo dice la ley, las Escrituras y la Verdad: estamos destinados a llegar a la casa de Dios, es decir, al Cielo. Allí alabaremos a Dios, no por cincuenta días, sino—como está escrito—por los siglos de los siglos. Lo veremos, lo amaremos y lo alabaremos. No se acabará la visión, no se agotará el amor, ni se silenciará la alabanza. Todo será eterno; nada llegará a su fin.” (Sermón 254, 8)

Nos regocijaremos en la presencia de Dios y lo alabaremos por toda la eternidad. Al participar en el Triduo y continuar durante el tiempo de Pascua, que la esperanza y el consuelo nos llenen, y que crezcamos en amor, alabanza y contemplación de la promesa de vida eterna de Dios.

Una vez más, ¡Feliz Pascua, y que Dios los bendiga!

P. Arlon, OSA

• Isaiah 50:4-7
• Psalm 22:8-9, 17-18, 19-20, 23-24
• Philippians 2:6-11
• Luke 22:14-23:56

We come to the first day of Holy Week, the intense week of meditating and inviting us to remember the Passion of the Lord, who offers Himself for our redemption and salvation.  It is the price of greatness of Christ with much responsibility.  Though we experience joy seeing people enthusiastic to get their blessed palms, there is also profound sorrow because of the reading of the Lord’s Passion. 

Today is Palm Sunday, and our focus is about Jesus’ entrance into Jerusalem with the people laying their cloaks on the road and singing “Hosanna, Hosanna.”  The crowd welcomes the Messiah by praising God. Jesus was riding on a colt, and His disciples were following Him. It was a procession with palms in their hands, crying out in unison of jubilation welcoming Jesus, the Son of David in the walled Jerusalem. 

In the first reading from the Prophet Isaiah, we hear of the call from God to stay faithful.  This Suffering Servant will have to endure physical hardships, but He is also called to endure patiently.  This reading expresses the servanthood of Jesus.  Jesus remains humble and innocent, Who walks with  people through shame and guilt which surround Him. Here, we see the contrast between humans’ resistance to purity and truth which resulted in His passion.  And yet Jesus’ gentleness, and  faithfulness to His Father remains to the end.  

The second reading, taken from the letter of St. Paul to the Philippians speaks to us about Jesus’ incarnation, life and ministry, death and resurrection, all integrally celebrated and glorified.  Jesus reflects the outward appearance of God through His obedience and submission.  His death might be construed by others as weakness; however, in this way, He humbled himself.  Many people are unaware of the divine presence in their midst.  Jesus is obedient to the point of death, even death on the cross. 

The gospel is long, and it is about the Passion of the Lord.  Let me try to give you some striking points of the gospel for our reflection: 

First, Jesus’ triumphant entry, amid hosannas and palm-waving, was not with hundred percent approval that the people had for Jesus.  Some of them were not true disciples; however, I believe that most of them had been deeply moved by Jesus’ authority and love. In the movie, The Last Supper, a few weeks ago shown in some of our local theaters, there is that scene on the screen where Jesus, on His way near the gate of Jerusalem, stopped. The spectators were silent and Jesus was staring at the walls, and He said, “even the stones will cry out,” and the camera focused on the blood coming out from those solid walls.

Second, hearing the gospel description of the terrible injustice of the capture of Jesus, the interrogation by Pilate and Herod and, ultimately, the anger of the crowd demanding for Christ’s crucifixion crushes our hearts into the depth of sorrow.  His disciples and His believers were overwhelmed with feelings of powerlessness, frustrations and terror.  They urged Jesus to return to them and continue to lead with compassion, mercy and grace.    

Third, Jesus’ death is meant to clear our minds and hearts from what is distressing and upsetting us. He makes us aware that His temporal death on the Cross paved the way for salvation.  His life’s offering through His passion, death and resurrection is a sacred and whole unity of His redemptive act.   It is so amazing that Jesus’ love from the beginning through His death on the Cross, up to and through His Resurrection, and even to this moment of our living, is the same Jesus who obediently is keeping His mission on earth.  We follow Him most by living receptively, thankfully, and openly to affirm our genuine faith and love for the Savior.  

The lesson of every scene in today’s reading of the Passion of the Lord is to grasp altogether Jesus’ words, gestures, and sufferings, all saying the same thing, that is, He stays faithful to His identity and mission as the Son of God.  He kept on confronting the sinners, religious and political leaders to change, but He finally stepped up on the cross sustaining His final moment of earth’s darkness and giving hope to all those who believe.  And joy and the fulness of life comes from worshipping Jesus.  

Hence, Holy Week has a message of joy and grief intermingled with the promise of salvation. May this first day of Holy Week be our gateway to abundant grace.  May our continuous reflection within this week aid our penitential and sacrificial experiences be the source of peaceful actions of love, compassion and prayer.  We all declare, “Jesus, have mercy on us, Jesus, I trust You.” 

God bless you. 

Fr. Arlon, osa

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El Dictado del Corazón

Domingo de Ramos de la Pasión del Señor, Año C

• Isaías 50, 4-7
• Salmo 21, 8-9. 17-18. 19-20. 23-24
• Filipenses 2, 6-11
• Lucas 22,14–23,56

Llegamos al primer día de Semana Santa—un tiempo intenso de meditación que nos invita a recordar la Pasión del Señor, quien se ofrece a sí mismo por nuestra redención y salvación. Es el gran costo del amor de Cristo, llevado con profunda responsabilidad. Aunque hay alegría al ver a la gente recibir con entusiasmo sus palmas benditas, también hay un profundo dolor al escuchar la Pasión del Señor.

Hoy es Domingo de Ramos, y nuestro enfoque está en la entrada de Jesús a Jerusalén. La gente extiende sus mantos por el camino y clama: “¡Hosanna, Hosanna!” Reciben al Mesías con alabanzas a Dios. Jesús entra montado en un burrito, seguido por sus discípulos. Es una procesión llena de gozo y reverencia, con palmas en alto, mientras celebran la llegada de Jesús a la ciudad de Jerusalén.

En la primera lectura del profeta Isaías, escuchamos el llamado de Dios a permanecer fieles. El Siervo Sufriente soporta el sufrimiento físico, pero responde con paciencia y perseverancia. Esta lectura refleja el espíritu de servicio de Jesús, quien se mantiene humilde e inocente, caminando en medio de la vergüenza y la culpa. Aquí vemos el contraste entre la resistencia de la humanidad a la pureza y la verdad, y la mansedumbre y bondad infinita de Cristo—cualidades que lo llevaron a su Pasión.

La segunda lectura, de la carta de San Pablo a los Filipenses, habla de la encarnación, el ministerio, la muerte y la resurrección de Cristo—todo glorificado en unidad. Aunque refleja la naturaleza divina con su poder, su muerte es vista por algunos como debilidad. Sin embargo, al humillarse hasta morir como cualquier ser humano, Cristo se hace uno con nosotros—Dios oculto a plena vista. Fue obediente hasta la muerte, y muerte de cruz.

El Evangelio de hoy es largo y solemne; relata la Pasión del Señor. Permítanme destacar algunos puntos para reflexionar:

Primero, la entrada triunfal de Jesús a Jerusalén, con las palmas ondeando y los gritos de “¡Hosanna!”, no fue recibida con aprobación plena ni duradera. Algunos en la multitud no eran verdaderos discípulos. Pero muchos habían sido profundamente tocados por Jesús—por su poder, su autoridad y, sobre todo, su amor. En una película proyectada recientemente en cines locales, hay una escena poderosa donde Jesús se detiene en la puerta de Jerusalén. La multitud guarda silencio, y Jesús, mirando las murallas de la ciudad, dice: “Hasta las piedras clamarán.” Luego, la cámara enfoca la sangre que brota de los muros de piedra—un símbolo inquietante del sufrimiento que se avecina.

Segundo, la descripción de la traición, arresto y juicio injusto de Jesús ante Pilato y Herodes, que culmina con los gritos del pueblo pidiendo su crucifixión, llena nuestros corazones de tristeza. Sus discípulos y seguidores fueron vencidos por el miedo, la impotencia y el dolor. Anhelaban que Jesús se quedara con ellos—que siguiera guiando con compasión, misericordia y gracia.

Tercero, la muerte de Jesús no es un final, sino un paso destinado a limpiar nuestros corazones y mentes. Su entrega en la cruz abre el camino para nuestra salvación. Su Pasión, muerte y resurrección son una unidad sagrada—un solo acto redentor de amor. Es sobrecogedor saber que el amor que Cristo mostró desde el inicio de su ministerio hasta su muerte y resurrección permanece intacto incluso hoy. Lo seguimos más fielmente cuando vivimos con apertura, gratitud y un deseo sincero de profundizar nuestro amor por nuestro Salvador.

Cada escena del relato de la Pasión de hoy habla con una sola voz: mantenerse fiel a la identidad y misión de Cristo como Hijo de Dios. Él continuó desafiando a los líderes religiosos y políticos de su tiempo, pero al final, subió a la cruz, abrazando la oscuridad del mundo para traernos la luz de la Pascua. La alegría y la plenitud de la vida provienen de adorar a Jesús.

Así, la Semana Santa une el dolor del sufrimiento con la alegría de la salvación. Que este primer día de Semana Santa sea nuestra puerta de entrada a una gracia abundante. Que nuestras reflexiones a lo largo de esta semana sagrada profundicen nuestro camino penitencial y sacrificial, e inspiren actos de paz, amor, compasión y oración.

Declarémoslo todos con un solo corazón:

“Jesús, ten misericordia de nosotros. Jesús, en Ti confío.”

Dios los bendiga,

P. Arlon, OSA

• Isaiah 43:16-21
• Psalms 126:1-2, 2-3, 4-5, 6
• Philippians 3:8-14
• John 8:1-11

Today is the 5th Sunday of Lent.  There are many times in life that we are confronted with the reality of an encounter with a man called Jesus through prayers, meditations, His Words and Sacraments.  Through this season of Lent, we enter into some sort of a test to check the suitability of receiving God’s mercy and love. 

The readings today remind us about the concept of starting all over again.  It is an opportunity to re-evaluate ourselves, to change and to return to the Lord. 

In the first reading, taken from the book of the Prophet Isaiah, we hear, “Remember not the events of the past, the things of long ago consider not; see, I am doing something new.”  The Prophet Isaiah is giving a reflection that the people tend to forget even the Exodus and all the events of their being created as a nation. However, their new creation will be the new memory-point of their loved identity as chosen.   While they were sitting in Babylon’s exile, they no longer recall that event of their being saved, but the prophet reminded them that something new, something even more, is soon to take place. They are invited to look ahead where the desert will bloom, rivers will flow, and there will be new life for the people God has chosen anew. 

In the second reading, taken from St. Paul to the Philippians, it says, “I consider everything as a loss because of the supreme good of knowing Jesus Christ my Lord.” There is so much goodness we can grasp in the Lord who has made us His own.  It is in the Light of Christ which frees us to live more gracefully in order to continue His mission of redemption. 

The gospel, taken from the gospel of St. John, narrates to us about a woman who was set up by her accusers.  The Pharisees also use her for their purposes.  Let us reflect on how the message of the Lord summons us into action.   

First, this story is about a woman in captivity by her accusers because of her adulterous acts which is against the Law.  They said to Jesus, “Teacher, this woman was caught in the very act of committing adultery.” (v.4) Jesus meets her in the midst of an angry crowd.   Her accuser is wanting to impose the punishment according to what the law requires.  Jesus, being with the people, was not being judgmental unlike the Pharisees whose interests are self-justifying performance of the Law. Jesus invited her and her fellow-sinners in order to keep with the Law by stoning her if her accusers themselves are without sin.  Nobody is left to throw stones against her.   

Second, Jesus said that any of them who had never sinned should throw the first stone. We could imagine, they slowly dropped their rocks like guilty children and left the adulterous woman with Jesus. He was so kind when he told her that he did not condemn her. I could see and feel how relieved she was and also how changed she was. Thus, Jesus’ mission is to let her live as loved.  

Third, “Jesus bent down and began to write on the ground with his finger…. Let the one among you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her.” (vv. 9-11) What did Jesus write? It’s important enough to consult the thought of St. Augustine on this particular issue.  We will not feel frustrated to start with St. Augustine, who preached a series of sermons about the gospel according to St. John.   

According to St. Augustine, he wrote, “What else does He signify to you when He writes with His finger on the ground? For the law was written with the finger of God; but written on stone because of the hard-hearted. The Lord now wrote on the ground, because He was seeking fruit.  You have heard then, Let the law be fulfilled, let the adulteress be stoned. But is it by punishing her that the law is to be fulfilled by those that ought to be punished? Let each of you consider himself, let him enter into himself, ascend the judgment-seat of his own mind, place himself at the bar of his own conscience, oblige himself to confess… Each looking carefully into himself, finds himself a sinner. Yes, indeed. Hence, either let this woman go, or together with her receive ye the penalty of the law…”  (Augustine, Sermon on John Chapter VII. 40–53; VIII. 1–11).  We understand that God the Father writes His commandment on the stone, and the Incarnate Son writes the eternal Law on the ground to fulfill it and continues writing on the ground to shame those who condemn.  Ultimately, Jesus sends the woman back with a sense of relating as one member of the whole community.  At the same time, Jesus invites the crowds to be conscious and be contrite of their sins as well.  

There are other interpretations like this which St. Jerome suggests Jesus was writing out the names of the accusers to fulfill Jeremiah 17:13 “Those who turn away from you will be written in the dust,” is more an allusion to the action of Jesus in today’s gospel.  I also have mentioned on my previous “Dictate of the Heart,” regarding others’ thoughts on this matter; however, St. Augustine’s teaching is more attractive to me, thus far.  

Lent is the season of self-examination and repentance from sins rather than declaring self-satisfied penances and religious strictness which deter ourselves from sincere and genuine conversion.  We are called to rise with Jesus and gather together as a community renewing our baptismal promises, not to utter any condemnation towards others, but to heed the call of our own exodus back to God where we belong.  Let us continue to celebrate life in Jesus, our Lord. 

God bless you.

 Fr. Arlon, osa

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El Dictamen del Corazón

Quinto Domingo de Cuaresma, Año C

• Isaías 43:16-21
• Salmo 126:1-2, 2-3, 4-5, 6
• Filipenses 3:8-14
• Juan 8:1-11

Hoy es el Quinto Domingo de Cuaresma. A lo largo de la vida, a menudo nos enfrentamos a la realidad de encontrar a Jesús a través de la oración, la meditación, Sus palabras y los Sacramentos. Esta temporada de Cuaresma es un tiempo para someternos a una prueba personal, para reflexionar sobre nuestra dignidad de recibir la misericordia y el amor de Dios.

Las lecturas de hoy nos invitan a considerar el concepto de empezar de nuevo. Es una oportunidad para reevaluarnos, para cambiar y para volver al Señor.

En la primera lectura del Libro del Profeta Isaías, escuchamos: “No recuerden lo pasado ni piensen en lo antiguo;

yo voy a realizar algo nuevo. El Profeta Isaías recuerda al pueblo que a menudo olvidan incluso los grandes eventos de su pasado, como el Éxodo, y su creación como nación. Sin embargo, la nueva creación que Dios está trayendo será una nueva memoria definitoria de su identidad como pueblo elegido. Mientras estaban en el exilio babilónico, ya no recordaban los eventos pasados de salvación, pero el profeta les asegura que algo aún más salvador está por venir. Dios los invita a mirar hacia adelante, donde el desierto florecerá, los ríos fluirán y una nueva vida brotará para el pueblo que Él ha elegido nuevamente.

En la segunda lectura de la carta de San Pablo a los Filipenses, escribe: “Todo lo tengo por basura, con tal de conocer a Cristo Jesús, mi Señor.” Hay muchas cosas buenas que podemos alcanzar en la vida, pero es solo a través de Cristo que verdaderamente somos hechos Suyos. A la luz de Cristo, somos liberados para vivir con gracia y continuar Su misión de redención.

El Evangelio de San Juan cuenta la historia de una mujer sorprendida en el acto de adulterio. Los fariseos la usan para sus propios fines, buscando atrapar a Jesús. Reflexionemos sobre cómo el mensaje de Jesús nos llama a la acción.

Primero, la mujer es sorprendida en el acto de pecado, y los fariseos la traen ante Jesús, diciendo: “Maestro, esta mujer ha sido sorprendida en flagrante adulterio.” (v. 4) Ella está de pie ante Jesús en medio de una multitud enfadada, y sus acusadores exigen el castigo prescrito por la Ley. Sin embargo, Jesús no responde con juicio, a diferencia de los fariseos, cuyo interés está en la autojustificación a través de la Ley. Jesús invita a los acusadores y a todos los presentes a considerar su propia pecaminosidad: que el que esté sin pecado, tire la primera piedra. Uno por uno, los acusadores dejan caer sus piedras y se van.

En segundo lugar, Jesús dice: “El que de ustedes esté sin pecado, sea el primero en arrojar la piedra contra ella.” Lentamente, uno por uno, los acusadores se van, sintiéndose convictos. La mujer queda con Jesús, quien le muestra misericordia. Le dice: “Yo no te condeno.” Imaginen cuán aliviada debe haberse sentido, y cómo cambió ella por este encuentro. La misión de Jesús es hacerle saber que ella es amada.

En tercer lugar, Jesús se agacha y comienza a escribir en el suelo con Su dedo, diciendo: “El que esté sin pecado, que tire la primera piedra.” (vv. 9-11) ¿Qué escribió Jesús? San Agustín ofrece una interpretación profunda. Él sugiere que Jesús escribió en el suelo porque la Ley, que fue escrita en piedra por el dedo de Dios, se había endurecido. Ahora, el Hijo de Dios escribe en el suelo, simbolizando una llamada al autoexamen. San Agustín escribe: “Que cada uno de ustedes se considere a sí mismo, que entre en sí mismo, suba al tribunal de su propia mente, se coloque en el banquillo de su propia conciencia, se obligue a confesar…” (San Agustín, Sermón sobre Juan 7:40–53; 8:1–11). Al hacer esto, Jesús invita a la multitud a mirar hacia adentro, a reconocer su propia pecaminosidad y a apartarse de la condena.

Existen otras interpretaciones, como la sugerencia de San Jerónimo de que Jesús escribió los nombres de los acusadores para cumplir con Jeremías 17:13, que dice: “Los que se apartan de ti serán escritos en el polvo.” Aunque he discutido diversas interpretaciones en homilías anteriores, la perspectiva de San Agustín es la que más resuena conmigo.

La Cuaresma es una temporada de autoexamen y arrepentimiento, no de penitencias auto-satisfechas o prácticas religiosas estrictas que impiden la verdadera conversión. Estamos llamados a resucitar con Jesús, a renovar nuestras promesas bautismales y a unirnos como comunidad. No debemos condenar a los demás, sino escuchar el llamado de nuestro propio éxodo de regreso a Dios, nuestra verdadera casa. Sigamos celebrando la vida en Jesús, nuestro Señor.

Que Dios los bendiga.

P. Arlon, OSA

• Joshua 5:9a, 10-12
• Psalm 34:2-3, 4-5, 6-7
• 2 Corinthians 5:17-21
• Luke 15:1-3, 11-32

Today is the 4th Sunday of Lent, and I’m glad to be relieved from celebrating the Extraordinary Form, the Traditional Latin Mass, after over 6 years.  It was indeed a real sacrifice on my part ministering two communities, but I was also blessed to be given this opportunity which helped me change my attitude in celebrating mass with profound devotion and love for the Eucharist.  

The readings today speak about the tenderness of God. Focusing on the gospel, Jesus narrates the story of “a man with two sons,” which we know as the story of the Prodigal Son. Having heard this story many times, it never loses its power to inspire and to move us deeply.  I presume this will help us be able to understand and continue to be conscious that we are on a pilgrimage in this Jubilee Year of Hope.

In the 1st reading from the Book of Joshua, we are reminded about the Israelites’ journey from Egypt into the promised land, the land of Canaan.  There was a celebration of freedom and enjoyment of the produce of this new given land. As a chosen people, their new homeland is filled with abundant blessings in the midst of the fertility of its land and the offspring as signs of God’s care.  God had been faithful to the covenant by granting them freedom and feeding, not the manna, but from their sweat and toil in their new abundant land.

In the 2nd reading, taken from the second letter of St. Paul, the apostle taught repentance and reconciliation to the people of Corinth as related to the newness of life in Christ.  “All this is from God, who has reconciled us to himself through Christ.”  It means that God goes out by providing a bridge between heaven and earth in the person of Jesus Christ. (v.18)  St. Paul proposes this message of conversion.

The gospel, taken from St. Luke, is known as the story of the “Prodigal Son.”  This gospel parable has been captured by the great artwork of Caravaggio in which the repentant son is embraced and welcomed by his father.  The father waited patiently for this moment, not waiting for any words from his son, because the father deeply knows the sorrow of his young son’s heart.  Let us explore the very touching moments of this gospel:

First, I know that Jesus has the heart for sinners, scribes and Pharisees.  They want to listen to Him, but people criticized Jesus, saying, “This man welcomes sinners and eats with them.”  However, I believe it was not going to a party with sinners, but instead it points us towards the very mission of Jesus to call them to the eternal kingdom.  Welcoming sinners back to God’s fold, there could be no better reason for a joyful celebration.  

Second, we heard about the younger son’s story who spent his entire inheritance on pleasure and misery by disobeying his father. He desperately realizes that his condition is far worse than the pigs he is caring for.  They have more to eat than he does. He was confronted by his conscience, shame and regret until he finally arrived at his breaking point.  He rises on his way back to his father, ready to disclaim his sonship and to work for his generous father. Instead his father robed him with fine linen, put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet, symbolizing an immediate restoration of his dignity as son.

We come to the point in our lives when we too have sinfully squandered the many gifts in our lives as if there was no end of fleeting joy, sexual excess, pride and rejections of God.  However, when we open our heart to the patience of God, diligently opening His hands to reach out to us like the younger son, we return to the Father for forgiveness.  He embraces us with joy and without judgment, though undeservedly.  I pray that we all feel the abiding trust in God’s love and mercy. 

Third, the elder son was not in the mood for celebrating his younger brother’s return.  He does not want to have anything to do with the celebration, and instead he felt envious.  The father said to him, “You were never lost, but your brother was dead and gone, but now he has come to life again, he has been found.”  The father recalls to his elder son that they have always been together and in love have shared in everything.

God is patient and forgiving as represented by the father in the parable.  The teaching point of Jesus expresses that God never separates from even the worst sinner.  We must be receptive to God’s will to reconcile us back to Him.  Our own realization about who we are is already an encounter with God, especially when we go to confession, where the caress of the mercy of Jesus Christ is granted upon all the penitents. 

Everyone who returns to God is cause for rejoicing and celebrating.  “Let us celebrate with a feast, because this child of mine was dead, and has come to life again; they were lost, and they have been found.”  (vv. 23-24) During this Lent return to God, the source of life, and accept the truth that we have received the very lives with joy and gratitude. Though we have wandered, the Eucharist is our Home where we are all welcome. Prodigal children and sinners, though we may be, Jesus embraces us tightly and His love is undivided.   

God bless you. 

Fr. Arlon, osa 

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El Dictado del Corazón 

Cuarto Domingo de Cuaresma, Año C

• Josué 5:9a, 10-12
• Salmo 34:2-3, 4-5, 6-7
• 2 Corintios 5:17-21
• Lucas 15:1-3, 11-32

Hoy, mientras nos reunimos en el Cuarto Domingo de Cuaresma, reflexionamos sobre el tierno amor de Dios y el llamado a regresar a Él. Estoy agradecido por la oportunidad de haber celebrado la Forma Extraordinaria de la Misa por más de seis años. Fue un sacrificio ministrar a dos comunidades, pero al hacerlo, fui bendecido al crecer en mi devoción y amor por la Eucaristía.

Las lecturas de hoy hablan de la profunda misericordia de Dios, especialmente a través del Evangelio. En la Parábola del Hijo Pródigo, Jesús nos muestra el corazón del Padre—paciente, perdonador y siempre dispuesto a abrazar al pecador. Esta historia, aunque familiar, siempre nos conmueve profundamente y nos recuerda de que somos peregrinos en un viaje hacia el corazón de Dios en este Año Jubilar de la Esperanza.

En la primera lectura, escuchamos acerca de los israelitas, que fueron esclavos en Egipto, pero ahora entran en la tierra prometida de Canaán. La tierra fluye con abundancia, marcando un nuevo comienzo para el pueblo elegido de Dios. Ya no dependen del maná del cielo, sino de los frutos de su trabajo, una señal de la fidelidad de Dios. Así como Dios alimentó a su pueblo en el desierto, ahora los nutre en esta nueva tierra fértil.

San Pablo, en la segunda lectura, hace eco del llamado a la reconciliación, instando a los corintios a abrazar la nueva vida que viene a través de Cristo. “Todo esto proviene de Dios, quien nos ha reconciliado consigo mismo a través de Cristo”, escribe. Esta novedad de vida nos invita al abrazo de Dios, ofreciéndonos perdón y un nuevo comienzo.

Y luego, en el Evangelio, escuchamos la familiar pero siempre conmovedora historia del Hijo Pródigo. Hagamos una pausa y reflexionemos sobre los poderosos momentos dentro de esta parábola:

Primero, la misión de Jesús se revela en su relación con los pecadores. Los fariseos lo criticaban por asociarse con los pecadores, pero Jesús no solo estaba socializando con ellos; los estaba llamando al Reino de Dios. Su misión fue, y sigue siendo, acoger a los perdidos, traerlos de vuelta a casa y celebrar su regreso con gran alegría.

Segundo, el viaje del hijo menor es trágico pero transformador. Desperdicia su herencia en placeres y queda despojado, alimentando cerdos en una tierra extranjera. Su corazón se quiebra y su conciencia lo mueve a regresar a su padre, no como hijo, sino como siervo. Pero cuando regresa, su padre corre hacia él, lo abraza e inmediatamente lo restaura a su antigua dignidad—simbolizada por la túnica, el anillo y las sandalias. Este es un hermoso recordatorio de que, sin importar cuán lejos hayamos ido, cuando nos arrepentimos y regresamos a Dios, Él nos recibe con los brazos abiertos y nos restaura a nuestro lugar legítimo como sus hijos amados.

Nosotros también, muchas veces, hemos malgastado los dones que Dios nos ha dado—persiguiendo placeres pasajeros y apartándonos de su amor. Sin embargo, cuando abrimos nuestro corazón a la gracia de Dios, Él espera pacientemente nuestro regreso. Su misericordia es abundante e inquebrantable. Al hacer nuestro camino de regreso a Él, podemos estar seguros de su abrazo amoroso, pues Su amor no se basa en nuestra dignidad, sino en Su misericordia infinita.

Tercero, vemos la reacción del hijo mayor. Él resiente la celebración del regreso de su hermano. Sus celos y amargura le impiden comprender la profundidad de la alegría del padre. El padre le recuerda: “Tú siempre has estado conmigo, y todo lo que tengo es tuyo. Pero tu hermano estaba muerto y ha vuelto a la vida; estaba perdido y ha sido encontrado.” El amor de Dios es infinito, y Su corazón se regocija siempre que los que están perdidos son encontrados. Nosotros también debemos regocijarnos en el regreso de los pecadores, no guardar resentimientos, sino celebrar la misericordia de Dios.

A través de esta parábola, Jesús nos enseña que el amor y el perdón de Dios no tienen límites. No importa cuán lejos nos desviemos, no importa nuestros pecados, Dios siempre está listo para abrazarnos cuando volvemos a Él. La Cuaresma es el tiempo perfecto para regresar a Dios, la fuente de toda vida, con corazones llenos de gratitud. Y al hacerlo, se nos recuerda que la Eucaristía es nuestro hogar, donde siempre somos bienvenidos.

En el Sacramento de la Reconciliación, experimentamos el tierno abrazo de la misericordia de Dios. Así como el padre corre a encontrar a su hijo, así también Dios corre a encontrarnos en nuestra necesidad. Esta es la gran alegría del Evangelio—los perdidos son encontrados, los muertos vuelven a la vida.

Abramos, pues, nuestro corazón a la abundante misericordia de Dios durante esta temporada de Cuaresma. Regocijémonos de que, sin importar cuán perdidos nos sintamos, el Padre siempre nos está esperando, con los brazos abiertos, para recibirnos.

Que Dios los bendiga a todos.

Padre Arlon, OSA

 

• Exodus 3:1-8a, 13-15
• Psalm 103: 1-2, 3-4, 6-7, 8, 11
• 1 Corinthians 10:1-6, 10-12
• Luke 13:1-9

Today is the 3rd Sunday of Lent.  I don’t know how far ahead we make some changes in our lives.  At times, it is hard to admit but we hope that halfway through, by God’s grace, we won’t be discouraged but will continue to persevere.   

The first reading today, taken from the Book of Exodus, gives us an idea that God speaks to Jesus to Moses from a burning bush, and it is amazing that it does not consume the bush. The bush which was not consumed has a significant meaning; it tells us about God’s everlasting love for humanity. 

Moses was aware of what was happening to him, for he was deeply attentive to God’s presence and engaged in listening to His voice.  Moses was open to God to obey as he took off his shoes as he approaches the holiness of God. He heard God’s voice appointing him to do a mission, being chosen to release the Israelites from the slavery of the Egyptians.  This was one of the many conversations of Moses with God, who said to him, “I Am Who Am sent me,” and remembering the “Who Am” who will always be with them.

 In the 2nd reading from the 1st letter to the Corinthians, St. Paul says, “Whoever thinks he is standing secure should take care not to fall.”  We are reminded and animated to engage with others in our pursuit of the truths that we may carry around with us.  We need to work on the conversion of the mind and heart.  If we want to be physically and spiritually healthy and happy ministering to others, we need to fix our minds on the right things.  Thus, St. Paul writes that the Corinthians should be careful. Even when they think they know what they are doing, they may fall, like some of their ancestors did.  

Today’s gospel narrates another parable about a landowner who planted a fig tree that did not produce fruit for three years.  The landowner was very disappointed and willing to give up, instructing his gardener to cut it down.  This gospel has many things to reflect on: 

First, today’s gospel mentions a description of people’s concern about the existence of the suffering in the world.  Jesus’ response was to clarify that their suffering physically is not caused by sin, which was the common religious belief at that time.  Jesus never accepts their idea.  He said, “I tell you, if you do not repent, you will perish as they did.”  However, Jesus is warning them that they have enough to experience the compassion of God. 

Second, in this parable, an owner discovered a fig tree planted in his orchard for three years and he came in search of fruit, but he found nothing, so he requests to have the tree chopped down. The gardener asks for one more year of hard work and then judgment can be made.   Here, Jesus is the gardener who works hard to manifest love for salvation.  He promises to dig around it and fertilize it, and if that does not produce fruit then it can go into the fire. The tree has exhausted the soil and perhaps the patience of the owner.   Jesus reveals that He is the living God who is laboring to bring about the Kingdom of Justice with the fruits of compassion and mercy. 

Third, the parable ends with their being cut away because of their lack of personal response to Jesus’ mission, teaching, and His offering of His very life. This had been proven when Israel brought them out of slavery into a fruitful promise, which many people had forgotten.    

By Jesus’s coming to us, He labored much, not only repentance, but the fruits of repentance.  Through Him, God’s fidelity is reassuring and a blessing to manifest that love in His incarnate presence among us. 

During this third Sunday of Lent, we are invited to repentance and to re-evaluate our attitudes to conform with Jesus Christ’s mercy and love.  

Jesus is directing this parable to all His hearers, inviting us to turn our old ways into the new creation of His kingdom.  He applies God’s works of mercy so that we will be more fruitful.  Jesus is the gardener of our lives who is patiently waiting for us.

Jesus is indeed a wise gardener who suggests, “I shall cultivate the ground around it and fertilize it; it may bear fruit in the future.” Jesus says that there is something deeper to which we should attend. Every day we should be preparing for a more fruitful life.  He understands our hearts and knows that our instinct is to give up on the tree that bears no fruit.  Please never give up on our Lent halfway through.  Today Jesus tells us not to give up hope that we can be better.  He offers us His love, care and His help.  May our growing relationship with God lead us to a conversation of heart. 

God bless you, 

Fr. Arlon, osa

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El Dictamen del Corazón

Tercer Domingo de Cuaresma, Año C

• Éxodo 3:1-8a, 13-15
• Salmo 103: 1-2, 3-4, 6-7, 8, 11
• 1 Corintios 10:1-6, 10-12
• Lucas 13:1-9

Hoy es el Tercer Domingo de Cuaresma. Cuántos cambios estamos haciendo en nuestras vidas en esta cuaresma? A veces, es difícil admitirlo, pero esperamos que, a mitad del camino, por la gracia de Dios, no nos desanimemos, sino que sigamos perseverando.

La primera lectura de hoy, tomada del Libro del Éxodo, nos muestra que Dios habla a Moisés desde una zarza ardiente. Lo sorprendente es que la zarza no se consume con el fuego. La zarza, que no se consume, tiene un significado profundo; nos habla del amor eterno de Dios por la humanidad.

Moisés estaba consciente de lo que le sucedía, porque estaba profundamente atento a la presencia de Dios y dispuesto a escuchar Su voz. Moisés estaba abierto a Dios y dispuesto a obedecer, pues se quitó los zapatos al acercarse a la santidad de Dios. Escuchó la voz de Dios que lo designaba para una misión: liberar a los israelitas de la esclavitud de los egipcios. Esta fue una de muchas conversaciones entre Moisés y Dios, quien le dijo: “Yo Soy el que Soy me envía”, recordándoles al “Yo Soy” que siempre estará con ellos.

En la segunda lectura, de la Primera Carta a los Corintios, San Pablo dice: “El que crea estar firme, que tenga cuidado de no caer”. Se nos recuerda y anima a comprometernos con los demás en nuestra búsqueda de la verdad que llevamos con nosotros. Necesitamos trabajar en la conversión tanto de la mente como del corazón. Si queremos ser físicamente y espiritualmente sanados y felices mientras ministramos a los demás, necesitamos fijar nuestra mente en lo correcto. Así, San Pablo escribe que los corintios deben tener cuidado. Incluso cuando piensan que saben lo que están haciendo, pueden caer, como algunos de sus antepasados lo hicieron.

El Evangelio de hoy relata otra parábola sobre un dueño de una tierra que plantó una higuera la cual no dio fruto durante tres años. El dueño estaba muy decepcionado y dispuesto a rendirse, instruyendo a su jardinero que la cortara. Este Evangelio tiene varios puntos en los cuales podemos reflexionar:

Primero, el Evangelio de hoy menciona la preocupación de la gente sobre la existencia del sufrimiento en el mundo. La respuesta de Jesús fue aclarar que el sufrimiento que experimentaban no era causado por el pecado, que era la creencia religiosa común en ese momento. Jesús rechazó esa idea y les dijo: “Les digo que, si no se arrepienten, perecerán de la misma manera que ellos”. Sin embargo, Jesús les advierte que tienen suficiente para experimentar la compasión de Dios.

Segundo, en esta parábola, un dueño descubrió una higuera plantada en su huerto durante tres años. Buscó frutos, pero no encontró ninguno. Entonces, pidió que se cortara el árbol. El jardinero pide un año más de trabajo arduo antes de que se pueda hacer un juicio. Aquí, Jesús es el jardinero que trabaja arduamente para manifestar el amor por la salvación. Él promete cavar alrededor de ella y abonarla, y si eso no da frutos, entonces podrá cortarse. El árbol ha agotado la tierra y quizás también la paciencia del dueño. Jesús revela que Él es el Dios vivo que está trabajando para traer el Reino de la Justicia con los frutos de la compasión y la misericordia.

Tercero, la parábola termina con el árbol siendo cortado debido a su falta de respuesta a la misión de Jesús, a su enseñanza, y a ofrecer Su propia vida. Esto se probó cuando Dios condujo a Israel fuera de la esclavitud hacia la promesa fructífera, una promesa que muchas personas han olvidado.

La venida de Jesús a nosotros no fue solo acerca del arrepentimiento, sino de los frutos del arrepentimiento. A través de Él, la fidelidad de Dios es reconfortante, y Su bendición se manifiesta en Su presencia encarnada entre nosotros.

Durante este tercer domingo de Cuaresma, se nos invita al arrepentimiento y a reevaluar nuestras actitudes, conformándolas a la misericordia y al amor de Jesucristo.

Jesús está dirigiendo esta parábola a todos Sus oyentes, invitándonos a convertir nuestros viejos caminos en la nueva creación de Su reino. Él aplica las obras de misericordia de Dios para que podamos ser más fructíferos. Jesús es el jardinero de nuestra vida, que espera pacientemente para que demos fruto. Él es, de hecho, un sabio jardinero que sugiere: “Cavaré alrededor de él y lo fertilizaré; tal vez dé fruto en el futuro”. Jesús dice que hay algo más profundo a lo que debemos atender. Cada día, debemos prepararnos para una vida más fructífera. Él entiende nuestros corazones y sabe que nuestro instinto es rendirnos con el árbol que no da fruto. Por favor, nunca se rindan a mitad de su Cuaresma. Hoy, Jesús nos dice que no perdamos la esperanza de que podemos ser mejores. Él nos ofrece Su amor, cuidado y Su ayuda. Que nuestra relación creciente con Dios nos lleve a una conversión de corazón.

Que Dios los bendiga,

P. Arlon, OSA

• Genesis 15:5-12, 17-18
• Psalm 27:1, 7-8, 8-9, 13-14
• Philippians 3:17-4:1
• Luke 9:28b-36

Today is the 2nd Sunday of Lent, year C. I have some derailment in our journey towards renewal and conversion, yet God understands each of our limitations as we continuously envision God who walks with us. We desire to see God and live to love Him and know Him even as He knows us. We try reaching our Lenten goal to get rid of our faults and bad habits as we continue to usher in towards this Jubilee Year of Hope. We need to be comforted by the guidance of the Holy Church.

The first reading from the Book of Genesis reminds us of God’s covenant with Abraham. Though Abram wants to see God, instead God speaks to him. He heard His voice promising him more blessings like fertility of body and land, except the blessing of seeing God. Abram’s act of faith is an important condition for him to have a son and his descendants would be plentiful. That is why he put his trust in the promise of God. Abram believed profoundly that what he heard was indeed real. God has told him that he will possess great land and riches which were visible signs for the fulfillment of God’s voice.

In the 2nd reading, taken from the Letter to the Philippians, St. Paul encourages us not to focus on material blessings but to live worthy of God. St. Paul says, “But our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we also await a savior, the Lord Jesus Christ. He will change our lowly body to conform with his glorified body by the power that enables him also to bring all things into subjection to himself.” This is a spiritual promise that when we live in all its glory, Jesus is truthful to give us a new and glorified body when we are intentionally conscious of loving Him, and by our faithfulness we shall see the face of God.

The gospel, taken from the gospel of St. Luke, narrates to us the beautiful story of Jesus’ transfiguration. This is how the three disciples were able to witness that Jesus allowed God, The Father, to touch His human nature and be transformed. The cloud enveloped Him, and the Divine voice said, “This is my chosen Son, listen to Him”. It is the Father’s command to encourage humanity to heed and abide by Him. The disciples see His face and clothes as dazzling white. This experience of dazzling brightness became the state of Peter, James and John’s hearts and minds being so differently. The three apostles understand that following Jesus will involve suffering, yet are transfigured to an intense attraction to their Master. They were tempted to remain there putting up three tents for their own selfishness.

Let us reflect on three important points in the story of Transfiguration:

First, Jesus’ invitation to His three apostles is a moment of comfort in order to prepare for what is ahead. In the liturgy of the Church, it says, that during Jesus’ transfiguration “He revealed his glory in the presence of chosen witnesses … that the scandal of the Cross might be removed from the hearts of his disciples and that he might show how in the Body of the whole Church is to be fulfilled what so wonderfully shone forth first in its Head.” That was a teaching point of Jesus to His apostles, who understood that His impending death on the Cross should not cause them fear but a manifestation that His glory with the testimony of Moses, representing the law, and Elijah, representing the Prophet, is to be listened to. This also would give us a clearer understanding that Christ’s passion will finally result in Jesus’ Resurrection and that glory is ours too.

Second, His disciples wanted to build three tents for their pleasure to remain there on top of the mountain. I would be a greater scene of seeking personal glory. The disciples have this sense of requesting selfish possession of Jesus’ glory and truth. Just like some of us, we have an increasing “entitlement” which flows from a sense that we deserve only the glorious intimate experiences of relationships because we have power and wealth. We believe that life is owed to us and not from God. We must accept that by Jesus’ coming down from that mountain and heading towards Jerusalem, we cannot escape His walk towards Calvary. Rather, we are encouraged to live more with Jesus faithfully.

Third, the story of the transfiguration of Jesus enlightened us that in the midst of our struggles to overcome criticism, slander and hate, we must listen to Jesus. Through Jesus, we have seen God’s presence, not anymore God who hides but God who came in the flesh, who has destroyed death and promises the power of the Resurrection. We are empowered to see Him thru our eyes of faith that truly see.

This is the Goodnews which is comforting. We should never stop giving thanks to God, who keeps us faithful ascending to the Mount of Transfiguration. He has shown us His majesty of His glory, in faith without wavering and being renewed in a sense of Jesus’ love for us.

With deep renewal, I am forgiven, and I am better being loved, and with the company of others together we climb the mountain of the altar of the Eucharist.

God bless you.

Fr. Arlon, osa

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El Dictado del Corazón

Segundo Domingo de Cuaresma, Año C

• Génesis 15:5-12, 17-18
• Salmo 27:1, 7-8, 8-9, 13-14
• Filipenses 3:17-4:1
• Lucas 9:28b-36

Hoy es el segundo domingo de Cuaresma, Año C. Puede que experimentemos algo de desviación en nuestro camino hacia la renovación y la conversión, pero Dios entiende cada una de nuestras limitaciones mientras continuamos visualizando a un Dios que camina con nosotros. Deseamos ver a Dios y vivir, amarlo y conocerlo, así como Él nos conoce. Mientras nos esforzamos por alcanzar nuestra meta cuaresmal de despojarnos de nuestros defectos y malos hábitos, seguimos nuestro camino hacia este Año Jubilar de la Esperanza. Necesitamos consuelo por medio de la orientación de la Santa Iglesia.

La primera lectura del libro de Génesis nos recuerda la alianza de Dios con Abraham. Aunque Abram desea ver a Dios, en cambio, Dios le habla. Él escucha la voz de Dios, prometiéndole más bendiciones, como la fertilidad del cuerpo y de la tierra, aunque no la bendición de ver a Dios. El acto de fe de Abram es una condición importante para tener un hijo, y sus descendientes serán numerosos. Por eso confió en la promesa de Dios. Abram creyó profundamente porque lo que escuchó era realmente real. Dios le dijo que poseería grandes tierras y riquezas, que eran signos visibles del cumplimiento de la palabra de Dios.

La segunda lectura, tomada de la carta a los Filipenses, encuentra a San Pablo animándonos a no centrarnos en las bendiciones materiales, sino a vivir de manera digna de Dios. San Pablo dice: “Pero nuestra ciudadanía está en los cielos, y de allí también esperamos un Salvador, el Señor Jesucristo. Él transformará nuestro cuerpo humilde para que sea semejante a su cuerpo glorioso, por el poder que le permite sujetar todas las cosas a sí mismo.” Esta es una promesa espiritual: cuando vivimos en Su gloria, Jesús nos dará cuerpos nuevos y glorificados. Cuando somos intencionalmente conscientes de amarlo, nuestra fidelidad nos permitirá ver el rostro de Dios.

El Evangelio, tomado del Evangelio de San Lucas, narra la hermosa historia de la transfiguración de Jesús. Aquí es cuando los tres discípulos son testigos de cómo Jesús permite que Dios Padre toque Su naturaleza humana y la transforme. La nube lo envuelve, y la voz divina dice: “Éste es mi Hijo, mi escogido; escúchenlo”. Es el mandato del Padre para alentar a la humanidad a seguirlo y obedecerlo. Los discípulos ven Su rostro y ropa deslumbrantemente blancos. Esta experiencia de un brillo deslumbrante se grabó profundamente en los corazones y mentes de Pedro, Santiago y Juan. Los tres apóstoles entendieron que seguir a Jesús implicaría sufrimiento, pero se vieron transfigurados por una intensa atracción hacia su Maestro. Estuvieron tentados a quedarse allí, queriendo construir tres tiendas para sus propios fines egoístas.

Reflexionemos sobre tres puntos importantes en la historia de la Transfiguración:

Primero, la invitación de Jesús a Sus tres apóstoles es un momento de consuelo para prepararlos para lo que les espera. En la liturgia de la Iglesia se dice que durante la transfiguración de Jesús, “Él reveló su gloria en presencia de testigos escogidos… para que el escándalo de la Cruz fuera eliminado del corazón de sus discípulos y para mostrar cómo en el Cuerpo de toda la Iglesia se debe cumplir lo que primero brilló tan maravillosamente en su Cabeza.” Este fue un momento de enseñanza para los apóstoles de Jesús, quienes comprendieron que Su inminente muerte en la Cruz no debía causarles miedo, sino ser vista como una manifestación de Su gloria. Con el testimonio de Moisés (que representa la ley) y Elías (que representa a los profetas), los discípulos son animados a escucharle. Esto también nos da una comprensión más clara de que la pasión de Cristo dará finalmente lugar a Su Resurrección, y esa gloria también será nuestra.

Segundo, los discípulos querían construir tres tiendas para permanecer allí en lo alto de la montaña. Esto habría sido un intento mayor de buscar gloria personal. Los discípulos tenían un sentido de “derecho”, deseando poseer la gloria y la verdad de Jesús para sí mismos. Al igual que algunos de nosotros, podemos sentir un creciente “derecho” que proviene de la creencia de que merecemos solo las gloriosas e íntimas experiencias de las relaciones debido a nuestro poder y riqueza. Creemos que la vida nos pertenece, en lugar de ser un regalo de Dios. Debemos aceptar que el hecho de que Jesús baje de la montaña y se dirija hacia Jerusalén significa que no podemos escapar de Su camino hacia el Calvario. Más bien, se nos anima a vivir más fielmente con Jesús.

Tercero, la historia de la Transfiguración de Jesús nos ilumina en el sentido de que, en medio de nuestras luchas para superar las críticas, la calumnia y el odio, debemos escuchar a Jesús. A través de Jesús, hemos visto la presencia de Dios: no un Dios oculto, sino un Dios que vino en carne, que destruyó la muerte y prometió el poder de la Resurrección. Estamos empoderados para verlo a través de los ojos de la fe, los cuales nos permiten ver la verdad.

Esta es la Buena Nueva, que es reconfortante. Nunca debemos dejar de dar gracias a Dios, que nos mantiene fieles mientras ascendemos al Monte de la Transfiguración. Él nos ha mostrado la majestuosidad de Su gloria, y a través de la fe, permanecemos firmes, renovados en el sentido del amor de Jesús por nosotros.

Con profunda renovación, soy perdonado. Soy mejor por ser amado, y en compañía de los demás, subimos juntos la montaña del altar de la Eucaristía.

Que Dios los bendiga.

P. Arlon, osa

• 1 Thessalonians 4:1-7
• Matthew 17:1-9 

Today is the 2nd Sunday of Lent. We are all invited to reflect on the readings today which speak of our journey together from July 1, 2019 until today…for over 6 years. Together we climb the mountain of the Altar of God as we celebrate the Traditional Latin or Extraordinary Form mass every Sunday.

Do you remember at the main altar next to the crucifix at the Holy Spirit Mission Church, what were the two words written on that altar mural? Those two inspiring words are the most significant reminder which make me able to walk with you and persevere as your priest. Those words impact me so much every time I offer mass for you. I stared with passion as I raised the host and the chalice during the consecration. No doubt that is just like Abraham who wants to see God, yet God instead revealed to him His spoken words of promise. Abraham received a son and numerous blessings from the land, except to see God in person, but only see through His words.

God has given me these two words: Grace and Mercy. It is sentimental to uncover the meaning of the words so that you may understand.

Coming here at Holy Spirit Mission, God has given me the Grace. No doubt that among the many priests, Bishop Randolph Calvo, DD appointed me to this special ministry. I have relied on God’s grace to celebrate the Latin Mass with such beauty and dignity worthy of the eyes of God. I have struggled to learn and to memorize all those Latin prayers which I never thought as a priest to start learning Latin words, the rubrics of the Extraordinary Form, which is the “Traditions Custodes.” I know I have made some mistakes, but I always find consolation in what my professors told me, “Ecclesia Supplet”, which means “The Church supplies.” Everything is grace from God who sustains me through all the years of my ministry and service.

Mercy is a magic word to remind me as I lead my flock, that I need to have mercy in my heart, like the Heart of our Merciful God. A call to mercy is “to be gracious and show favor.” It is God’s gracious gift and at the same time a favor that is shown to me. I believe I cannot be merciful unless God granted me some favor to change my personal way of looking at myself and others. This “mercy” which I always contemplate or reflect on gives me a sense of power, that is the power to be merciful.

These words erased from our sight create for me an image of Israel’s God, who I believe deserves more attention than myself and from whom I gain enormous help, love and support.

The gospel today, taken from the gospel of St. Matthew, narrates to us the beautiful story of Jesus’ transfiguration. This is how the three disciples are able to witness that Jesus allowed God, The Father, to touch His human nature being transformed. The cloud enveloped Him and the Divine voice said, “This is my chosen Son, listen to Him”. It is the Father’s command to encourage humanity to heed and abide by Him. The disciples see His face and clothes as dazzling white. This experience of dazzling brightness became the state of Peter, James and John’s hearts and minds so differently. The three apostles understand that following Jesus will involve suffering, yet transfigured to an intense attraction to their Master. They were tempted to remain there putting up three tents for their own selfishness.

Let us reflect on three important points in the story of Transfiguration:

First, Jesus’ invitation to His three apostles is a moment of comfort in order to prepare for what is ahead. In the liturgy of the Church, it says that during Jesus’ transfiguration, “He revealed his glory in the presence of chosen witnesses … that the scandal of the Cross might be removed from the hearts of his disciples and that he might show how in the Body of the whole Church is to be fulfilled what so wonderfully shone forth first in its Head.” That was a teaching point of Jesus to His apostles, who understood that His impending death on the Cross should not cause them fear but a manifestation that His glory with the testimony of Moses, representing the law, and Elijah, representing the Prophet, is to be listened to. This also would give us a clearer understanding that Christ’s passion will finally result in Jesus’ Resurrection, and that glory is ours too.

Second, His disciples wanted to build three tents for their pleasure to remain there on top of the mountain. I would be in a greater scene of seeking personal glory. The disciples have this sense of requesting selfish possession of Jesus’ glory and truth. Just like some of us, we have an increasing “entitlement” which flows from a sense that we deserve only the glorious intimate experiences of relationships because we have power and wealth. We believe that life is owed to us and not from God. We must accept that in Jesus’ coming down from that mountain and heading towards Jerusalem, we cannot escape His walk towards Calvary. Rather we are encouraged to live more with Jesus faithfully.

Third, the story of the transfiguration of Jesus enlightened us that in the midst of our struggles to overcome criticism, slander and hate, we must listen to Jesus. Through Jesus, we have seen God’s presence, not anymore God who hides but God who came in the flesh, who has destroyed death and promises the power of the Resurrection. We are empowered to see Him thru our eyes of faith that truly see.

This is the Goodnews which is comforting. We should never stop giving thanks to God, who keeps us faithful ascending to the Mount of Transfiguration. He has shown us His majesty of His glory in faith without wavering and renewed in a sense of Jesus’ love for us.

With deep joy and gratitude to God, I sincerely hand upon you those two eternal words in my heart, that wherever you are, always be reminded of God’s Grace and Mercy. May these two lasting words create reverberating sounds in everyone’s heart and mind. Until we meet again, let us keep one another in prayer, especially your new priest Canon Moreau.

God bless you.

Fr. Arlon, osa

• Deuteronomy 26:4-10
• Psalm 91:1-2, 10-11, 12-13, 14-15
• Romans 10:8-13
• Luke 4:1-13

Today, we celebrate the first Sunday of Lent, Year C.  This Lenten journey invites us to bring our hearts and lives before the Lord, who saves.  This loving God loves us unconditionally.  Thus, hearing these three scriptural readings, they provide us with guidance to plan out our Lenten season so that we can respond to that love every moment of our life.  Let us keep this Lenten season meaningful to reflect on God’s presence, love and His acts of redemption.   

The first reading from the Book of Deuteronomy reminds us of what our saving God had done for the Israelites throughout the history.  God brought them out through Moses from the oppressive Egyptians by His powerful hands “with signs and wonders and He gave them land flowing with milk and honey.” 

We must remember and reflect that God has shown many opportunities for us to be freed from struggles, difficulties and ultimately, triumph from all adversities in life.  God has journey with us, something that we cannot forget and to be grateful.  God’s manifestations to save us is worthy to ponder in our hearts. 

The second reading from the letter to the Romans, St. Paul teaches us about the Word.  He says that “The word is near you, in your mouth and in your heart.” This first Sunday of Lent, we are invited to focus upon God’s Word, the written and spoken Words which inspire us to contemplate in mind and heart the amazing love of God.

The gospel today from St. Mark has always been about the event of Jesus’ being tempted by the devil during the first Sunday of Lent.  It shows to us that He is fully human.   There are three temptations with corresponding affirmations by Jesus that He knew well Himself.  

First, the devil tempted Jesus.  “If you are the Son of God, command this stone to become bread.”  Jesus was hungry because He fasted and abstain food those days. Jesus resisted by saying, “As it is written, One does not live on bread alone.”  Jesus is exhorting us that we need to consider denying ourselves from our bodily desires during this Lent.  Not that we must continue to satisfy our appetite but depriving ourselves from food and inadvertent desires and pleasures, we become strong to resist all bodily gratification.  Furthermore, we have to spend a large amount of time meditating on God’s Word during Lent would definitely seem to be a worthy use of our time.

Second, the devil insisted and took Jesus up and showed Him all the kingdom of the world, the devil said to Him, “I shall give you all this power and glory for it was handed over to me, and I may give it to whomever I wish.”  He was tempted to possess the power of domination.  This is how we too are tempted by offering ourselves to dominate and control others.  We oftentimes took that opportunity to let others kneel down before us to manifest our controlling and domineering impulse. It has been done between spouses to assert their power and even to some towards their children, whom they left them with too little choices. 

The true worship and service we can render to God alone is not through power, prestige and manipulation of others but rather genuine service resulting to the building up of that kingdom.

Third, the devil tempted Jesus for the last time, “If you are the Son of God throw yourself and let angels rescued you.  Jesus says, “you shall not tempt God.” This is the so called temptation of “showing glory and prestige.”  However, the Lord was so humble by living out who He is, being faithful and beloved Son of God.  It is a lesson for us to be humble like Him.  Whatever we attain in life, we cannot just tempted to be like little gods.  God alone is our God and no other.  No amount of material possessions, material abundance and achievement could make ourselves powerful than our loving God.   Thus, we surrender to Him and we should never test the Lord.  

As long as we live, temptations will be real, and ours today where it seems as if the devil is constantly seeking to overpower us.  We need continue to fight and to be strong in our spiritual battles.  Like Jesus, we have to process our self-acceptance that we are children of God, trusting in the One who has called us.  How do we focus our mind and heart during our 40 days of Lent.  Through our Lenten discipline, of prayer, fasting and almsgiving, we let go of our egos, and let God to conquer us and make room for God inside our core being.  Let the Spirit of God lead us into the dessert of forty days of Lent and not to allow the devil to destroy our relationship with God.  

God bless you.

Fr. Arlon, osa

——————

El Dictado del Corazón

Primer Domingo de Cuaresma, Año C

• Deuteronomio 26:4-10
• Salmo 91:1-2, 10-11, 12-13, 14-15
• Romanos 10:8-13
• Lucas 4:1-13

Hoy celebramos el primer Domingo de Cuaresma, Año C. Este camino cuaresmal nos invita a llevar nuestro corazón y nuestra vida ante el Señor, quien nos salva. Este Dios amoroso nos ama incondicionalmente. Así, al escuchar estas tres lecturas bíblicas, nos brindan una guía para planificar nuestra temporada de Cuaresma, para que podamos responder a ese amor en cada momento de nuestra vida. Mantengamos esta temporada de Cuaresma para que sea significativa y para reflexionar sobre la presencia de Dios, Su amor y Sus actos de redención.

La primera lectura, tomada del libro de Deuteronomio, nos recuerda lo que nuestro Dios salvador ha hecho por los israelitas a lo largo de la historia. Dios los sacó por medio de Moisés de los opresivos egipcios con Su mano poderosa “con señales y prodigios, y les dio una tierra que fluye leche y miel”.

Debemos recordar y reflexionar que Dios ha mostrado muchas oportunidades para que seamos liberados de luchas, dificultades y, en última instancia, para triunfar sobre todas las adversidades de la vida. Dios ha caminado con nosotros, algo que no podemos olvidar y por lo que debemos ser agradecidos. Las manifestaciones de Dios para salvarnos son dignas de ser meditadas en nuestro corazone.

La segunda lectura, de la carta a los Romanos, San Pablo nos enseña acerca de la Palabra. Él dice: “La palabra está cerca de ti, en tu boca y en tu corazón”. Este primer domingo de Cuaresma, se nos invita a centrarnos en la Palabra de Dios, las Palabras escritas y pronunciadas que nos inspiran a contemplar con mente y corazón el increíble amor de Dios.

El evangelio de hoy, tomado del evangelio de San Lucas, siempre ha tratado del evento de la tentación de Jesús por parte del diablo durante el primer domingo de Cuaresma. Nos muestra que Él es completamente humano. Hay tres tentaciones con las correspondientes afirmaciones de Jesús que Él conocía bien por sí mismo.

Primero, el diablo tentó a Jesús: “Si eres el Hijo de Dios, manda que esta piedra se convierta en pan”. Jesús tenía hambre porque había ayunado y se había abstenido de comer esos días. Jesús resistió diciendo: “Está escrito: No solo de pan vive el hombre”. Jesús nos exhorta a considerar negarnos a nuestros deseos corporales durante esta Cuaresma. No es que debamos seguir satisfaciendo nuestro apetito, sino que al privarnos de comida y de deseos y placeres inadvertidos, nos volvemos fuertes para resistir toda gratificación corporal. Además, debemos pasar un buen tiempo meditando sobre la Palabra de Dios durante la Cuaresma, lo cual sería un uso digno de nuestro tiempo.

Segundo, el diablo insistió y llevó a Jesús, mostrándole todos los reinos del mundo. El diablo le dijo: “Te daré todo este poder y gloria, porque me fue entregado a mí, y puedo dárselo a quien quiera”. Fue tentado a poseer el poder de la dominación. Así también nosotros somos tentados a ofrecernos para dominar y controlar a los demás. Muchas veces aprovechamos esa oportunidad para dejar que otros se arrodillen ante nosotros y manifestar nuestro impulso controlador y dominante. Esto ha ocurrido entre esposos para afirmar su poder, e incluso hacia los hijos, a quienes se les deja con muy pocas opciones.

El verdadero culto y servicio que podemos rendir a Dios solo es a través del servicio genuino que resulta en la edificación de Su reino, y no a través del poder, el prestigio y la manipulación de los demás.

Tercero, el diablo tentó a Jesús por última vez: “Todo esto será tuyo, si me adoras”. Esta es la tentación de la posesión. Sin embargo, Jesús le respondió: “Está escrito: Adorarás al Señor tu Dios, y a Él solo servirás”. Jesús vivió como quien es: fiel y amado Hijo de Dios. Es una lección para nosotros: no importa la cantidad de posesiones materiales y abundancia, no debemos sucumbir fácilmente a la tentación de adorar cualquier posesión que tengamos, porque solo a Dios debemos servir.

Mientras vivamos, las tentaciones serán reales, y las nuestras hoy en día parecen como si el diablo estuviera buscando constantemente dominarnos. Debemos seguir luchando y ser fuertes en nuestras batallas espirituales. Al igual que Jesús, debemos procesar nuestra aceptación de que somos hijos de Dios, confiando en Aquel que nos ha llamado. ¿Cómo enfocamos nuestra mente y corazón durante los 40 días de Cuaresma? A través de nuestra disciplina cuaresmal de oración, ayuno y limosna, dejamos ir nuestros egos, permitimos que Dios nos conquiste y haga espacio para Él en lo más profundo de nuestro ser. Que el Espíritu de Dios nos guíe hacia el desierto de los cuarenta días de Cuaresma y no permitamos que el diablo destruya nuestra relación con Dios.

Dios los bendiga.

Padre Arlon

• 2 Corinthians 6:1-10
• Matthew 4:1-11

Today, we begin our journey through Lent.  It is the first Sunday of Lent where we take advantage of this opportunity to keep the discipline of prayer, fasting and almsgiving.  This is a moment of grace inviting everyone to focus on God’s loving presence as we journey together along the path of personal soul searching, renewal of mind and heart and genuine conversion in this season of Lent.  We are being prepared to have this solemn event to attentively listen and ponder the Word of God in the Scriptures and unceasingly pray to heed the call of true repentance. 

In the first epistle, taken from the 2nd letter to the Corinthians, St. Paul says, “Brethren, we exhort you that you receive not the grace of God in vain.”  These inspiring words from St. Paul make us remember Jesus’ suffering, death and resurrection, which is extended to us as the greatest grace from our loving God. Paul quotes the Prophet Isaiah that he announced to them that God was bringing His people out of exile, and yet the people in Corinth were passive and not reacting to it.  Therefore, on our part, how can we receive God’s grace in a fruitful way?  This is the challenge that we need to know.  On our part we need to repent of our sins, turning away from sins, acknowledging our sins thru confession and entering into this new relationship with God.  Unfortunately, many people receive God’s grace in vain. They read the bible and think that what Jesus did was great, and yet it makes not much difference in their life.  They haven’t actually surrendered to God despite the freely given gift of transformation because our spiritual life is flat and lifeless.  It is obvious that we are not acting on what we have received.  

Is there something to rejoice in? To pray about? To believe? There is always a specific way to respond to God’s Word and invitation to eternal salvation.  We now enjoy a day of grace; then let’s all be careful not to neglect it.  St Paul, the apostle of the Gentile did so, by much patience in afflictions, by acting from good principles, and by due temper and behavior.  We need to diligently employ our time to useful purposes.  

The gospel, taken from St. Matthew, narrates to us about Jesus being tempted by the devil.   What do you think is Satan’s goal in coming to tempt Jesus?  How did Jesus respond? 

The Spirit led Jesus to the wilderness.  It was part of the sovereign plan to allow Satan to tempt Jesus.  This encounter happened in order to serve as an example for us of how to face temptation and which shows how victorious Jesus was over Satan as evidence of His faithfulness to His Father and to show as evidence of Jesus’ sinlessness.   

In moments of temptations, the Lord is our model that we should pray and ask God for greater strength in order not to fall into temptations and to rely on God more.  In the book of Job, God allows Satan to tempt Job severely. At the same time, He uses it as an opportunity to teach Job and his friends more things about God.  Temptations come and we should do our best to avoid them because it is possible that we can overcome them, not trusting ourselves, but trusting solely on God’s intervention.

The first temptation, Satan asked Jesus, “If you are the Son of God command that these stones be made bead.”   Jesus responded, “It is written, not in bread alone that man live but in every word that proceeded from the mouth of God.”  Satan wanted Jesus to use His power for selfish reasons, that is to go outside of God’s desire for man to focus on spiritual satisfaction rather than bodily satisfactions. Jesus fasted forty days and forty nights to prepare Himself for this rigorous mission to begin His three-year public ministry which would change the world.  He put aside worldly distractions and desires so that He can rely on the strength from God and His Word to defeat those temptations.  

The second temptation, Satan brought Him to the top of the temple saying, “If Thou be the Son of God, cast Thyself down.”  Jesus replied, “Thou shall not tempt the Lord thy God.”  I believe that through His own conviction, He would not ask His Father to send angels to catch Him because Jesus doesn’t want to test the power of His almighty Father.  Throwing Himself off the temple is actually demonstrating a lack of faith and the power of His Father’s promise as revealed in the Scriptures.  Now, we do understand that the real faith doesn’t need any proof or signs. 

The third temptation, Satan took Jesus to a very high mountain and showed Him all the kingdoms of the world.  Then Satan told Him, “All these will I give Thee, if falling down Thou wilt adore me”.  Jesus said, “Begone Satan, for it is written, The Lord Thy God shalt thou adore, and Him only shalt thou serve”.  We see Satan’s true heart of pride for he wants to be worshipped.  However, at the end of the story Jesus showed His true power and authority.  He commands Satan to obey because Jesus is stronger, and Satan cannot stand up to Him. Jesus again is giving us an example that we should always respond to lies and temptation with truth. 

Today, we make the decision to meditate on the truth of God’s Word and use it to defend yourself against all temptations and evil attacks.  We should spend lots of time in prayer, meditation and focusing on God’s Word.  Not only to think how long we could fast and abstain from food or from other things such as internet, movies, alcohol, sexual excess, or social media, but instead, during this season, we intensify improving on building good and loving relationships with God and others.  Whatever help or any charitable contribution for those who are in dire need, we do them not only for our needy neighbors, but for God.  Whoever you do to the least of your brothers, you do it unto me. 

All those temptations that come along our way would surely be conquered when we focus on Jesus, who is victorious and walks with us along the path to holiness.  

God bless you. 

Fr. Arlon, osa

• Sirach 27:4-7
• Psalm 92:2-3, 13-14, 15-16
• 1 Corinthians 15:54-58
• Luke 6:39-45 

Today is the 8th Sunday in Ordinary Time, Year C.  We are in the 1st Sunday of the month of March 2025. We never realize how time flies seemingly unnoticed.  We are sometimes in denial that we are growing old as time passes, and oftentimes we just don’t realize our own blindness on things like the fleeting moments.  On this Sunday, it is Ordinary Time, but this coming Wednesday is the beginning of the 40 days of the liturgical calendar called Lent.    

Today’s 1st reading, taken from the Book of Sirach, exhorts that we cannot judge a person until one speaks.  We praise a person only when one utters to disclose what is in his heart and mind.  Words are necessary to be heard to know if a person is truly reliable and can be trusted. The proverbs from the Book of Sirach always provide us with a thought provoking message. 

In the 2nd reading from the first letter to the Corinthians, St. Paul’s words prepare us to enter into our Lenten journey in order to focus on our interior life.  St. Paul says, “Be firm, steadfast, always fully devoted to the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain.” 

The gospel today, taken from the gospel of St. Luke, narrates the teachings of Jesus contained in this parable.

First, Jesus says, “Can a blind person guide a blind person?” This is a difficult and dangerous situation, and it would surely result nowhere if a blind man is leading another blind person.  Jesus is actually talking in a figurative manner, rather than a literal way. Jesus makes us understand that our attitude towards our spiritual life is consistent with the fact that we simply admit how far we can be able to sustain our pretentious attitude.  It is the biggest danger when we presume we can fix other’s faults but, honestly, we can’t even fix our own blindness.  

Second, Jesus says, “Why do you notice the splinter in your brother’s eye, but do not perceive the wooden beam in your own.”  I guess this is the worst attitude, which is our being judgmental.  Judgmental people tend to see only other’s mistakes and flaws without being aware of and admittedly not trying to take their own wooden beam from one’s own eye.  It elevates all kinds of prejudices against others, when they themselves cannot see clearly.  Thus, people shouldn’t be criticizing others for faults they have themselves.

Third, Jesus says, “A good person, out of the store of goodness in his heart produces good, while an evil person, out of a store of evil produces evil; for from the fulness of the heart the mouth speaks.”  This is how Jesus teaches us that the quality of our heart determines the quality of our words and actions.   If we live according to the words of Jesus, our words and actions would be guided by His gospel message.  Consequently, it will affect others positively.  Therefore, we should avoid uttering words and doing actions that will scandalize and lead others to nothingness.  

Today, Jesus wants us to be careful speaking unkind words, judging others, and to show the goodness of your heart by being humble enough to look inwards before criticizing others.  Truly, our actions flow easily from the goodness within, for we believe that “From the fulness of the heart the mouth speaks.”  Our way of seeing, speaking, hearing and doing all flow from the heart.  Let us develop a sound heart which is important in our Christian life.  Jesus invites us to examine ourselves.  

God bless you.

Fr. Arlon, osa

—————–

El Dictado del Corazón 

Octavo Domingo del Tiempo Ordinario, Año C

Sirácides 27:4-7 Salmo 92:2-3, 13-14, 15-16 1 Corintios 15:54-58 Lucas 6:39-45

Hoy es el Octavo Domingo del Tiempo Ordinario, Año C. Estamos en el primer Domingo del mes de Marzo de 2025, y a veces no nos damos cuenta de cómo el tiempo pasa rápidamente, casi sin notarlo. A veces estamos en negación de que estamos envejeciendo, ya que el tiempo pasa, y a menudo ni siquiera nos damos cuenta de nuestra propia ceguera ante cosas como los momentos fugaces. Este Domingo, es Tiempo Ordinario, pero este próximo Miércoles comienza la Cuaresma de 40 días, el comienzo del calendario litúrgico conocido como Cuaresma.

La primera lectura de hoy, tomada del Libro de Sirácides, nos exhorta a no juzgar a una persona hasta que esta hable. Alabamos a una persona solo cuando expresa lo que tiene en su corazón y mente. Las palabras son necesarias para ser escuchadas si una persona es realmente confiable y se le puede confiar. Los proverbios del Libro de Sirácides siempre nos dejan un mensaje que nos hace reflexionar.

La segunda lectura, de la primera carta a los Corintios, las palabras de San Pablo nos preparan para entrar en nuestro camino cuaresmal, para enfocarnos en nuestra vida interior. San Pablo dice: “Manténganse firmes, inquebrantables, siempre abundantes en la obra del Señor, sabiendo que en el Señor vuestro trabajo no es en vano”.

El evangelio de hoy, tomado del evangelio de San Lucas, narra las enseñanzas de Jesús contenidas en esta parábola.

Primero, Jesús dice: “¿Puede un ciego guiar a otro ciego?” Esta es una situación difícil y peligrosa, y seguramente no llevaría a nada si un ciego guiara a otro ciego. Jesús, de hecho, está hablando de manera figurada, no literal. Jesús nos hace entender que nuestra actitud hacia nuestra vida espiritual está relacionada con el simple hecho de admitir hasta dónde podemos sostener nuestra actitud pretenciosa. Es el mayor peligro cuando presumimos que podemos corregir los defectos de los demás, pero honestamente, ni siquiera podemos corregir nuestra propia ceguera.

En segundo lugar, Jesús dice: “¿Por qué ves la paja en el ojo de tu hermano, y no te das cuenta de la viga en tu propio ojo?” Creo que esta es la peor actitud, el juzgar a los demás. Las personas que juzgan tienden a ver solo los errores y defectos de los demás, sin ser conscientes de que no intentan ni siquiera quitar la viga de su propio ojo. Esto eleva todo tipo de prejuicios contra los demás, cuando ellos mismos no pueden ver claramente. Por lo tanto, no deberíamos criticar a los demás por los errores que tenemos nosotros mismos.

En tercer lugar, Jesús dice: “El hombre bueno dice cosas buenas, porque el bien está en su corazón, y el hombre malo dice cosas malas, porque el mal está en su corazón, pues la boca habla de lo que está lleno el corazón”. Así es como Jesús nos enseña que la calidad de nuestro corazón determina la calidad de nuestras palabras y acciones. Si vivimos de acuerdo con las palabras de Jesús, nuestras palabras y acciones estarán guiadas por su mensaje evangélico. En consecuencia, afectarán positivamente a los demás. Por lo tanto, debemos evitar decir palabras y realizar acciones que escandalicen y conduzcan a los demás a la nada.

Hoy, Jesús quiere que tengamos cuidado al hablar palabras crueles, al juzgar a los demás y al mostrar la bondad de nuestro corazón, siendo lo suficientemente humildes para mirar hacia adentro antes de criticar a los demás. Verdaderamente, nuestras acciones fluyen fácilmente de la bondad que tenemos dentro, porque creemos que “de la abundancia del corazón, habla la boca”. Nuestro modo de ver, hablar, oír y hacer todo fluye del corazón. Desarrollemos un corazón sano, que es fundamental en nuestra vida cristiana. Jesús nos invita a examinarnos a nosotros mismos.

Dios los bendiga.

Padre Arlon, osa