Author: dotheartfrarlon

• Ezekiel 2:2-5
• Psalm 123:1-2, 2, 3-4
• 2 Corinthians 12:7-10
• Mark 6:1-6

Today, we celebrate the 14th Sunday in Ordinary Time, Year B.  This is my first time to celebrate mass at this Cathedral of Reno.  I have concelebrated with Bishop Calvo and Bishop Mueggenborg for various occasions, but not as the main celebrant.  It is my joy to be assigned at this Cathedral, the seat of the Diocese of Reno.  I am also familiar with your patron saint, St. Thomas Aquinas, because I studied philosophy and theology at the University of Santo Tomas, the oldest University in the Philippines and in Asia.  Thank you for your warm welcome! We will journey in faith together, and please don’t hesitate to approach me. 

This Sunday’s readings focus on how we accept Jesus as the Incarnate God, and how the Holy Spirit works in us as we continue to know ourselves better so that we can relate to each other as members of God’s family.  Oftentimes, we disregard the Lord speaking to us and are not keen to listen to Him, and we become vulnerable.  We rely on our own power. 

The 1st reading from the book of Ezekiel tells us about the rebellious attitude of the people of Israel to whom God sent a prophet to inform them about the Lord’s instruction.  We remember that all prophets must speak on behalf of the Lord God.  For Ezekiel, though difficult, he has to swallow the Word before speaking to his people, meaning to say that a prophet needs to realize that he is a messenger.  It is his job to remind the people sternly that the Lord has a message for their salvation for He is their God.  A prophet has always been inspired by the Holy Spirit. 

In the 2nd reading from the second letter of St. Paul to the Corinthians, Paul claims that the good Lord says to him, “My grace is sufficient for you, for the power is made perfect in weakness.” (v.9) We learn from St. Paul that as we go through our weaknesses, we put constraints on our will which makes us vulnerable; however, the power of the Holy Spirit guards us not to wear us down.  With the spiritual power of Christ, it can make us stronger.  When persecutions, tribulations and weaknesses come, we can certainly take up our cross, for St. Paul taught us saying, “For when I am weak, then I am strong.” (v.10) 

This is a very clear lesson that we need to reflect on as His disciples, that is, Jesus won’t stop us from receiving trials and sufferings in life.  However, experiencing weaknesses in life, we put everything into God’s hands.  It is a call to humbly submit ourselves, including our weakness; at our lowest point is to experience the absolute power of God. 

The gospel taken from St. Mark narrates to us the story of Christ’s rejection in Nazareth.  We need to open our hearts and minds to seek consolation from this gospel story. 

First, Jesus came to His native place accompanied by His disciples to teach in the synagogue. And “many who heard Him were astonished.”  (v.2) They questioned His authority. Obviously Jesus had experienced continuous rejection which led to His crucifixion and death.   We have been part of that progressive rejection because God intervenes several times in our lives, yet we are tempted to deny, to reject, and to resist the healing we have received to the point of completely forgetting all spiritual blessings from the Lord. 

Second, people asked, “Where did this man get all this?” (v.2) Jesus’ neighbors belittling Him, maybe looking for His credentials or qualifications, and questioning His family and background, being troubled about where He got this wisdom. Jesus, knowing all this, said to them, “A prophet is not without honor except in his native place.” (v.4) Jesus’ townsfolk were not interested in listening to Him and knowing that His power and wisdom come from His divine power as the “Son of God.”  Jesus “did not perform mighty deeds there apart from curing sick people.” (v.5) Thus, Jesus leaves His native place, visits other places, and finds people who are much more willing to embrace Him. 

Third, Jesus was “amazed at their lack of faith.” (v.6) The reason why Jesus left His native town was not to manifest indifference or apathy against them, but they failed to recognize God’s visitation and failed to give honor to the person sent by the Father.  Their unbecoming attitude towards Him, meaning their lack of faith, was the reason to depart from them. 

Our attitude is unacceptable to God when we are too self-centered.  There is no room to know the right thing because we focus on ourselves.  We need to do something positive by changing our own views and behavior towards God and others that would bring us to an intimate encounter with Jesus. 

I pray that we, like St. Paul, can learn to accept our human weakness by the power of God.  We believe that with Jesus Christ, we are strong!   Like the Prophet Ezekiel, we have the Holy Spirit to convert us, being a prophetic person in your life, building up our family and community to take to heart the things we heard as gospel truths.  

God bless you.

 Fr. Arlon, OSA

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El dictado del corazón

Decimocuarto Domingo del Tiempo Ordinario, año B (7 de julio)

• Ezequiel 2:2-5
• Salmo 123:1-2, 2, 3-4
• 2 Corintios 12:7-10
• Marcos 6:1-6

Hoy celebramos el Decimocuarto Domingo del Tiempo Ordinario, Año B. Esta es la primera vez que celebro misa en Catedral de Reno. He colaborado en varias ocasiones con Monseñor Calvo y Monseñor Mueggenborg, pero no como celebrante principal. Es un placer para mí el haber sido asignado a esta Catedral, sede de la Diócesis de Reno. También conozco a su santo patrón, Santo Tomás de Aquino, porque estudié filosofía y teología en la Universidad de Santo Tomás, la universidad más antigua de Filipinas y Asia. ¡Gracias por su cálida bienvenida! Veo caras conocidas, pronto nos estaremos conociendo, caminaremos juntos en la fe y no duden en acercarse a mí. 

Las lecturas de este domingo se centran en cómo aceptamos a Jesús como el Dios encarnado y cómo el Espíritu Santo obra en nosotros, a medida que continuamos conociéndonos mejor a nosotros mismos, para poder relacionarnos unos con otros como miembros de la familia de Dios. A menudo, ignoramos que el Señor nos habla y no estamos dispuestos a escucharlo, y nos volvemos vulnerables confiando en nuestro poder. 

La primera lectura del libro de Ezequiel nos habla de la actitud rebelde del pueblo de Israel, a quien Dios envió un profeta para informarles sobre las instrucción del Señor. Recordamos que todos los profetas deben hablar en nombre del Señor Dios. Para Ezequiel, aunque difícil, tiene que tragarse la Palabra antes de hablar a su pueblo, es decir, que un profeta necesita darse cuenta de que es un mensajero. Su trabajo es recordarle al pueblo con severidad que el Señor tiene un mensaje para su salvación porque Él es su Dios. Un profeta siempre ha sido inspirado por el Espíritu Santo. 

En la segunda lectura de la segunda carta de San Pablo a los Corintios, Pablo afirma que el Dios buen dice: “Te basta mi gracia, porque mi poder se perfecciona en la debilidad”. (v.9) Aprendamos de San Pablo que a medida que atravesamos nuestras debilidades, ponemos limitaciones a nuestra voluntad, lo que nos hace vulnerables; sin embargo, el poder del Espíritu Santo nos guarda para no desgastarnos. Con el poder espiritual de Cristo, puede hacernos más fuertes. Cuando vienen persecuciones, tribulaciones y debilidades, ciertamente podemos tomar nuestra cruz, porque San Pablo nos enseñadiciendo: “Porque cuando soy débil, entonces soy fuerte”. (v.10) 

Esta es una lección muy clara sobre la que debemos reflexionar como discípulos, es decir, Jesús no nos impedirá recibir pruebas y sufrimientos en la vida. Sin embargo, al experimentar debilidades en la vida, ponemos todo en manos de Dios. Es un llamado a someternos humildemente, incluidas nuestras debilidades; en nuestro punto más bajo es experimentar el poder absoluto de Dios. 

El evangelio tomado de San Marcos nos narra la historia del rechazo de Cristo en Nazaret. Necesitamos abrir nuestros corazones y mentes para buscar consuelo en esta historia del evangelio. 

Primero, Jesús vino a su lugar natal acompañado de sus discípulos para enseñar en la sinagoga. Y “muchos de los que le oyeron quedaron asombrados”. (v.2) Cuestionaron Su autoridad. Jesús había experimentado un rechazo continuo que lo llevó a su crucifixión y muerte. Hemos sido parte de ese rechazo progresivo porque Dios interviene varias veces en nuestras vidas, sin embargo, somos tentados a negar, rechazar y resistir la sanación que hemos recibido hasta el punto de olvidar por completo todas las bendiciones espirituales del Señor. 

En segundo lugar, la gente preguntaba: “¿De dónde sacó este hombre todo esto?” (v.2) Los vecinos de Jesús lo menospreciaron, tal vez buscando sus credenciales o calificaciones, y cuestionando a su familia y sus antecedentes, preocupados por saber de dónde sacó esta sabiduría. Jesús, sabiendo todo esto, les dijo: “Un profeta no carece de honor excepto en su lugar de nacimiento”. (v.4) La gente del pueblo de Jesús no estaba interesada en escucharlo y saber que Su poder y sabiduría provienen de Su poder divino como el “Hijo de Dios”. Jesús “no realizó allí milagros aparte de curar a los enfermos”. (v.5) Así, Jesús sale de su lugar natal, visita otros lugares y encuentra personas mucho más dispuestas a abrazarlo. 

En tercer lugar, Jesús estaba “asombrado de su falta de fe”. (v.6) La razón por la que Jesús abandonó su pueblo natal no fue para manifestar indiferencia o apatía hacia ellos, sino porque no reconocieron la visita de Dios y no dieron honor a la persona enviada por el Padre. Su actitud impropia hacia Él, es decir, su falta de fe, fue la razón para apartarse de ellos. 

Nuestra actitud es inaceptable para Dios cuando somos demasiado egocéntricos. No hay lugar para saber lo correcto porque nos centramos en nosotros mismos. Necesitamos hacer algo positivo cambiando nuestros puntos de vista y comportamiento hacia Dios y los demás que nos lleven a un encuentro íntimo con Jesús. 

Ruego para que nosotros, como San Pablo, podamos aprender a aceptar nuestra debilidad humana por el poder de Dios. ¡Creemos que con Jesucristo somos fuertes! Al igual que el profeta Ezequiel, tenemos el Espíritu Santo para convertirnos, ser personas proféticas en nuestras vidas, edificar a nuestrasfamilias y comunidad para tomar en serio las cosas que escuchamos como verdades del evangelio. 

Dios los bendiga. 

P. Arlón, osa

• Romans 6:19-23
• Matthew 7:15-21

Today is the 7th Sunday after Pentecost.  I moved to St. Thomas Cathedral on July 1st.  This is my first week to assume my new assignment and to continue my ministerial work here at Holy Spirit Mission celebrating the Extraordinary Form Mass.  Fr. Paul McCollum, the Vicar for the Clergy, puts it, “Fr. Arlon, that is a life of a missionary.”   Indeed, this is the way a missionary lives and operates. 

Today’s epistle and gospel present to us many things to ponder in order to experience the divine encounter and to reap spiritual benefits that lead us to holiness. 

The epistle, taken from the letter of St. Paul to the Romans, reminds us of our slavery to impurity and sins from our constant alliance with the wicked one, the devil, who led us to death.  St. Paul stressed offering ourselves to righteousness, leading to holiness and salvation.  So, in Christ Jesus, we have been set free from sin and have become slaves of God.  St. Paul is not condoning slavery per se, but rather Paul encourages us to “remain to God by offering ourselves up to Him.”  Either we must serve sin, or we must serve God, for there is no neutrality.  This has been St. Paul’s conviction and advice for us.  We pray. “Lord, I offer up my life to You to do as You desire.”  We sustain our relationships with God through faith and our enduring love.   

We must choose to live in holiness.  Holiness is an inner state characterized by conformity to the will and character of God.  St. Augustine teaches that the practice of outward godliness is the product of inward godliness; that is, our interior life filled with goodness and the right things which bring a person along the pathway of spiritual growth.   St. Paul again says, “you have fruit unto sanctification, and the end life everlasting.”  Thus, “eternal life” refers to the fruit of a holy and godly life from which we derive our fellowship with God and others.  Our faith expression is not only personal, but communal, for we are brothers and sisters in God’s family we all profess. 

The gospel today speaks about false prophets.  Jesus cautioned us about the existence of so many people claiming to be prophets in our midst.  Our good Lord admonishes His disciples to avoid these “ravenous wolves” who “come in sheep’s clothing.”   Let us again focus on how we would understand this gospel passage. 

First, in Jesus’ days on earth, there were false prophets who existed across the land leading confused souls astray.  Their existence persists even in this modern time. I do understand the danger because no one knows the heart of another.  They believed to be shepherds, but on whose authority had they received it? Some groups printed their version of the bible, maybe giving them the authority to interpret it.   Clearly, we must be vigilant and use all our given faculties to identify them by their frauds, fakes, and make-believe prosperity gospel, claiming a religion through their promise of giving the “best life now.” 

They fascinate their victims with soothing assurances that God wants them to glow as a rosy type of person, encouraging them to put their monies into their congregation and smiling all the way to the bank on a daily basis.  All they do is encourage them to believe that they have a divine spark within them.  Pledges and gifts are also accepted, whether by cash or check or, for the convenience of those huge numbers watching on television, taking advantage of the use of their credit cards.  Millions of dollars are collected by their preaching perverted scriptures which their congregation fails to see because most of these people are busy trying to manage their daily existence.  There is no preaching about equality and proportion. 

Second, Jesus says, “You will know them by their fruits.”  People simply get caught up with therapy and psychoanalysis preaching but having nothing to do with Jesus as a savior. Their mission is to repair damaged self-esteem.  They appear fanatical in their preaching with the guise of “relevance” in the need of the people to feel better for the moment, but not making people connect to Jesus to be reconciled and to seek salvation from Him.  This is the so called “Christless Christianity.”  Where there is no Christ crucified on the cross, there is no true Church. 

Third, these false prophets offer an express lane to heaven that mentions no sin, no guilt, and no encounter with Christ at His cross.  Imagine how many people are persuaded by appealing to their weakest point and attacking on the emotional baggage of these unchurched people. I pity them because they have a confused concept of the Bible, taken out of context and taken piece by piece to make them feel good, but unfortunately taken from the Sunday sermon they go back to being the same old person. Their doctrine of deceit becomes an avenue of this convenient salvation that demands no embracing of the Savior, no confession, no repentance, but merely blind obedience. 

Brothers and sisters, we have been transformed and become fruitful in our lives through our Lord Jesus Christ as evidence of His presence in the Words and the Sacraments, specifically in the celebration of the Eucharist.  This is the fact that we are truly blessed by His grace and gift of salvation in the truest sense of spiritual realm.  We are genuinely identified with hearts that have been redeemed by the love and sacrifice of our Lord Jesus Christ. 

When we feel that salvation arrives when we are filled with encouraging words, spiritual guidance, and an assurance that God has provided a route to eternal bliss, then we proclaim His death on the cross and profess His resurrection until He comes again.  No cross, no salvation.  No salvation, no discipleship.  Where there is no discipleship, the Bible is not being preached.  Those deceived souls would not encounter Jesus, the source of Salvation.  God intends that you and I are sinners in desperate need of salvation thru the grace and mercy that is in Jesus and not from those false prophets of our times.  

God bless you. 

Fr. Arlon, osa

• Wisdom 1:13-15; 2:23-24
• Psalm 30:2, 4, 5-6, 11, 12, 13
• 2 Corinthians 8:7, 9, 13-15
• Mark 5:21-43 or 5:21-24, 35b-43

Today is the 13th Sunday in Ordinary Time.  I always appreciate the liturgy of the Church because it brings us to the amazing stories about Jesus’ miracles.  Jesus doesn’t want us to die but wants us to be saved from death.  In fact, He never rejoices in death because He knows that it is a consequence of sin. Those who are with the devil only experience death.  Thus, our preference of eternal life could be attributed to fostering our good attitudes of staying in love with and being with God, who is life. 

I believe that summer season comes to make us realize the cycle of nature. The season brings to everyone a new perspective of being alive.  So let us always be grateful and not be grumbling about the things we experience while here on earth.  We must understand that unusual increase of heat in the atmosphere is the consequence of negligence and not taking care of our mother earth.  We, in one way or the other, contribute to climate change that is obviously affecting the world.  Can we contribute a little by changing our lifestyle, like proper disposal of waste at home and conservation of water and energy, which are just simple ways to show our love for our environment? Wasteful ways can be avoided. Think of the misery and needs of others and also the next generation to come. 

The first reading taken from the book of Wisdom reminds us that when we choose God, we choose eternal life and, therefore, going against the will of God, we turn towards death.  This book clearly says, “God did not make death, nor does He rejoice in the destruction of the living.” (v.13) 

The second reading from the 2nd letter of St. Paul to the Corinthians focuses on being poor.  St. Paul says, “for your sake He became poor, so that by His poverty you might become rich.” (v.9) To further understand this writing of St. Paul, Jesus became human and exposed Himself to human situations of being inclined to all kinds of vulnerabilities, like death and other sufferings. However, according to Jesus’ example of generosity and the sharing of our material blessings with others, we also share God’s gift to provide for those who have less.  It is of Christ being poor that others learn to be generous. 

Death snatches away from us many things which we cannot hold on to when we die, but our loving relationships with others remain to be the measurement of how good we are here on earth.  Material gains will disappear, but friends and family will be left behind with cherished memories about us, right?   

The gospel from St. Mark narrates to us two separate stories about the woman who suffered with hemorrhages for 12 years and a 12-year-old girl who was raised from the dead by Jesus . In our reflections today, we focus on some important messages which are relevant to understand this gospel pericope. 

First, the story about the woman with profuse bleeding for many years, who maybe got to the point of hopelessness.  She heard about Jesus, and then what she wanted was an intervention from the man who had gained more people by being a miracle worker.  She reaches out to Jesus for healing because she had tried everything and spent much of her money, but nothing happened to her.  She was healed because of her faith in Jesus.  It was a coincidence that the bleeding she was continuously experiencing speaks of two things:  Blood in Leviticus 13:19-29 in Jewish tradition is a participation in the life of God, On the other hand, it can be a call for purification because it refers to impurities and uncleanness.  Going to Jesus in faith is a new purifying experience of believing in Jesus who comes to give life as His mission on earth. 

Second, Jesus journeys to the house of the official for another mission.  There was commotion among the people thinking the little girl was already dead.  However, the faith of the father in Jesus was so strong that it made his daughter came back to life.  When Jesus said these words, “Little girl, I say to you, arise,” the little girl gets up and walks around.  The “people were utterly astounded.” (vv.41-42). Jesus again brought back life, not only to the woman with hemorrhages, but also to the little girl.  Jesus wants us to be saved and have life. 

Third, this gospel story reminds us of the necessity of Faith in Jesus.  I do believe that this is not a story of the past but our present story and our own personal experience with Jesus that we too are recipients of Jesus’ healing miracles.  We are made whole because we have faith like the woman and the synagogue official who approached Jesus about his child. We must be humble to plead help from the Lord in faith.  

What is Jesus telling us? Jesus says, “Do not be afraid; just have faith.”  Several times in the scriptures, we find these words, “do not be afraid.”  My understanding is just like a child when asked by the parents to come to them Without hesitation the child will exert an effort to come to them, with no worry and not being hesitant, but having great confidence.  In the same way, in our Christian life, we need to let go and entrust everything to God.  Miracles happen every day without noticing them.  

Now the challenge is this; when we have faith-experienced healing, it provokes everyone not only to remain in the consolation of believing, but it causes us to be converted, to act in kindness, and to act in love towards others.  If we have faith, it should not be personal, but a communal sharing with God to improve the lives of others and the world.  

God bless you. 

Fr. Arlon, osa

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El Dictado del Corazón

Decimotercer Domingo del Tiempo Ordinario, Año B

• Sabiduría 1:13-15; 2:23-24
• Salmo 30:2, 4, 5-6, 11, 12, 13
• 2 Corintios 8:7, 9, 13-15
• Marcos 5:21-43 o 5:21-24, 35b-43

¡Hola a todos! Puede que les sorprenda verme, ya que ya me había despedido de todos el domingo pasado. Pero el plan de Dios para mi transición de parroquias es diferente de lo que yo tenía planeado. Después de Misa, tengo que ir a subir mis cosas a mi auto y mañana comenzaré mi nueva misión en la Catedral de Santo Tomás de Aquino en Reno.  He mencionado que no se trata de una despedida porque volveré de vez en cuando.  Además, oro por su apoyo a la educación de los seminaristas agustinos en las Filipinas, ya que necesitan mucho de su donación. ¡sean generosos! 

Esta temporada de verano nos hará recuerda del ciclo de la naturaleza. La temporada ofrece a todos una nueva perspectiva de estar vivos. Así que estemos siempre agradecidos y no nos quejemos de las cosas que experimentamos mientras estamos aquí en la tierra. Debemos entender que el inusual aumento de calor en la atmósfera es consecuencia de la negligencia por no cuidar la Tierra. Nosotros, de una forma u otra, contribuimos al cambio climático que está afectando al mundo. Podemos contribuir un poco a cambiar nuestroestilo de vida, como la correcta eliminación de residuos en casa, y la conservación del agua y la energía, son sólo formas sencillas de mostrar nuestro amor por nuestro medio ambiente. Se pueden evitar los despilfarros, pensemos en la miseria de los demás, en las necesidades y en las generaciones futuras. 

La primera lectura del libro de la Sabiduría nos recuerda que cuando elegimos a Dios, elegimos la vida eterna, yendo en contra de la voluntad de Dios, nos volvemos hacia la muerte. Este libro dice claramente: “Dios no hizo la muerte, ni se regocija en la destrucción de los vivos”. (v.13) 

La segunda lectura de la segunda carta de San Pablo a los Corintios se centra en ser pobre. San Pablo dice: “Por nosotros se hizo pobre, para que nosotros con su pobreza nos enriqueciéramos”. (v.9) Para comprender mejor este mensaje de San Pablo, Jesús se hizo humano y se expuso a la situación humana de estar inclinado a todo tipo de vulnerabilidades como la muerte y otros sufrimientos. Sin embargo, según el ejemplo de generosidad de Jesús y de compartir nuestras bendiciones materiales con los demás, también compartimos el don de Dios de proveer para aquellos que tienen menos. Es de Cristo siendo pobre que otros aprenden a ser generosos. 

La muerte nos arrebata muchas cosas a las que no podemos aferrarnos cuando morimos. Pero nuestras relaciones amorosas con los demás siguen siendo la medida de lo buenos que somos aquí en la tierra. Las ganancias materiales desaparecerán, pero los amigos y familiares quedarán atrás con recuerdos preciados sobre nosotros, ¿verdad? 

El evangelio de San Marcos nos narra dos historias distintas: una mujer que sufrió hemorragias durante 12 años y una niña de 12 años que fue resucitada por Jesús de entre los muertos. En nuestras reflexiones de hoy, nos centramos en algunos mensajes importantes que son relevantes para comprender este evangelio. 

En primer lugar, la historia de la mujer que sangraba abundantemente durante muchos años puede haber llegado al punto de la desesperanza. Ella escuchó de Jesús, entonces lo que quería era una intervención de un hombre que había ganado a más personas por ser hacedor de milagros. Ella acude a Jesús en busca de curación porque lo intentó todo y gastó gran parte de su dinero, pero no le pasó nada. Ella fue sanada gracias a su fe en Jesús. Fue una coincidencia que la sangre que experimenta continuamente habla de dos cosas: La sangre en Levítico 13:19-29 en la tradición judía es una participación en la vida de Dios, por otro lado, puede ser un llamado a la purificación porque se refiere a las impurezas y a la inmundicia. Ir a Jesús en fe es una nueva experiencia purificadora de creer en Jesús que viene a dar vida como Su misión en la tierra. 

Segundo, el viaje de Jesús a la casa del funcionario para cumplir otra misión. Hubo una conmoción de gente pensando que la pequeña ya estaba muerta. Sin embargo, la fe del Padre en Jesús fue fuerte lo que hizo que su hija volviera a la vida. Cuando Jesús dijo estas palabras: “Niña, te digo, levántate”, la niña se levanta y camina. La “gente estaba completamente asombrada”. (vv.41-42). Jesús volvió a traer vida no sólo a la mujer con hemorragia sino también a la niña. Jesús quiere que seamos salvos y tengamos vida. 

En tercer lugar, esta historia del evangelio nos recuerda la necesidad de la fe en Jesús. Creo que esta no es una historia del pasado sino nuestra historia presente y nuestra experiencia personal de Jesús de que nosotros también somos destinatarios de los milagros curativos de Jesús. Somos sanos porque tenemos fe como la mujer y el oficial de la sinagoga que se acercó a Jesús. Debemos ser humildes para pedir ayuda al Señor con fe. 

¿Qué nos está diciendo Jesús?: “No temas; solo ten fe.” Varias veces en las Escrituras encontramos la palabra “No temas”. Mi comprensión es como la de un niño cuando sus padres le piden que se acerque a ellos, sin dudarlo, el niño hará un esfuerzo para acercarse. 

dobladillo, no te preocupes, sin dudar, pero con gran confianza. De la misma manera, en nuestra vida cristiana, necesitamos dejarnos llevar y dejar a Dios, confiarle todo a Dios. Un milagro ocurre todos los días sin darnos cuenta. 

Ahora el desafío es este; cuando tenemos experiencia de curación, provoca que todos no sólo permanezcan en el consuelo de creer, sino que nos hace convertirnos, actuar con bondad y amor hacia los demás. Si tenemos fe, no debe ser sólo un compartir personal sino comunitario en comunión con Dios para mejorar las vidas de los demás y del mundo. 

Dios los bendiga. 

P. Arlón, osa

• Acts 12:1-11
• Matthew 16:13-19

Today is the External Solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul, Apostles of Christ.  Both of them labored much to spread the gospel and to establish His kingdom here on earth.  It is with great joy throughout the world to celebrate this feast.  The Church rejoices and gives thanks to God for these two important figures in the whole Church. 

Let us revisit and remember Saint Peter’s and Saint Paul’s identities for the sake of our understanding and appreciating these two pillars of the Christian world.  Peter was part of the original 12 circle of Jesus’ friends.  When Peter first met Jesus, he was given a new name after confessing that “Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the living God.”  Jesus solemnly gave him a new name; from being called Simon, he would then be called Petrus, or Peter, which means the Rock. 

The fact was that he knew Jesus’ identity, but on the night before Jesus’ crucifixion, Peter’s infidelity caused him to deny Jesus three times, but he later redeemed himself through His great confession after Jesus asked him, “Do you love Me?”  Peter answered Him, “Yes, Lord.”   Jesus continues to tell him, “If you love Me, keep my commandments, feed my sheep,” and Peter gives all to Jesus and to His Church.  And so, St. Peter, the first Vicar of Christ on earth, had nothing to give except Jesus.  Peter loves Jesus, still being poor and still an unworthy servant to lead his flock. 

Paul was an enemy of Jesus of Nazareth before his conversion.  On his way to Damascus, he encountered Jesus shining so brightly that he could not glance too long at the immensity of the light, and he became blind.  Paul makes us rejoice to confess, “I live, now not I, but Jesus lives within me.”   His total surrender healed him, and he expressed his gratitude with his great dedication to preach and to do missionary works to proclaim the Goodnews.  We remember this beautiful story of Paul’s conversion.  In the end, St. Paul became the greatest evangelist, bringing Christ’s gospel to thousands of people. 

The epistle today narrates to us that there was a crisis in the early Church, to which God responded to reveal His ways.  God made Peter and Paul be freed from imprisonment through His intervention.  The light of God manifests to penetrate any place and to break through anyone’s heart.  

Both Peter and Paul are also noted for the many sufferings and trials they underwent. Paul was martyred in Rome and was known as the “Apostle of the Gentiles”. Many of the New Testament books are assigned to Paul’s authorship.  I believe that after the offering of their lives, throughout the history of the Church, many Christians were inspired by their lives, and they remain prophetic witnesses of the Holy Church.  From time immemorial God walks with and listens to us in solidarity with the given mission to prosper and succeed in our evangelization. 

I believe that the gospel states the very foundation of the Holy Catholic Church, when Jesus says to St. Peter, “Upon this rock, I will build my Church.” May God grant us the firmness in faith and charity and in remaining faithful to Christ, who is the Head.  Let us contribute in our own little way bearing witness for Him and remaining faithful until death in professing and living out our faith in Jesus, our Lord, and for the exaltation of His Holy Church. 

God bless you. 

Fr. Arlon, osa

• Job 38:1, 8-11
• Psalm 107:23-24, 25-26, 28-29, 30-31
• 2 Corinthians 5:14-17
• Mark 4:35-41

Today is the 12th Sunday in Ordinary Time. The Church reminds and encourages us that Christ is present even in the midst of all of life’s storms. Thus, we are glad that Jesus loves us and is ready to rescue us in the event that we are deeply terrified. In the Philippines, I watched a video of 7 young kids celebrating their friendship in the middle of the river when suddenly the rushing water overtook them. Fortunately, they bonded together and found a submerged big bolder to step on. Since they were little, the water was up to their chest and they were struggling to survive. Their families and neighbors sought help, cried aloud to calm them down and advised them to pray. Surprisingly, another rushing flow of water separated them, and two were pushed to the end of the river where a 7 foot cliff river basin brought these two children, but with God’s grace, all of the children miraculously survived after rescuers arrived.

Many of us are planning where we can enjoy our summer activity. Some wish to go to the beach or lake for a good refreshing swim and to have fun under the sun. Some will plan outdoor activities like hiking and camping with the whole family for bonding. In short, summer gives all of us an opportunity to get out and take advantage of the good and sunny weather.

There are so many things we need to anticipate when we go out there. Extra caution is needed, and safety concern is a must. We don’t want bad things to happen to anyone. All kinds of storms and dangers can be disruptive and scary, so let us be vigilant to secure safety to avoid them.

The readings and the gospel remind us of the many sufferings and storms in life that come unexpectedly. The first reading taken from the book of Job narrates to us the experience of Job in the midst of his life’s storm. He complained to God out of pride. Pride always seizes that moment when we simply only notice our very own selves. However, God brings humility to us, in particular when God said, “Here shall your proud waves be stilled.” This verse exhorted Job by God to take away his “proud waves” and made him a humble person. God is always there to help us for we are not alone.

The second reading from the 2nd letter of St. Paul to the Corinthians explains that Paul experienced great sacrifices and trials in preaching the gospel. However, whatever our life’s situation may be, God’s saving grace completely transforms the entire being of those who firmly believe. In our condition of being dead to sin, Christ raises us up to the fulness of new life. Thus, St. Paul asserts that “whoever is in Christ is a new creation: the old things have passed away; behold, new things have come.” (v.17)

The gospel today is taken from St. Mark and narrates the story about Jesus and His disciples having gotten into the boat to cross the sea of Galilee. Jesus was probably tired from His ministry and works, and he fell asleep unmindful of the terrible storm, strong winds and violent waves that were causing their boat to be in peril. What are the gospel points that we need to think about?

First, His disciples woke Him up saying, “Teacher, do you not care that we are perishing?” This kind of exasperation on the part of His disciples raises the level of His disciples’ trust in the Lord in the midst of finding themselves in danger. Despite the waves and strong winds tossing their boat, the disciples continue to be faithful to what they believe, that they are not alone being with Jesus.

Second, Jesus woke up and rebuked the wind and said to the sea, “Quiet! Be still.” Jesus is the Lord who made heaven and earth. We see in this gospel that Jesus has control over nature, evil spirits, the devil, and sin itself. In Jesus obviously resides the power of God. The evangelist Mark’s intention to write his gospel is to strengthen their faith in Jesus’ teachings, works and miracles which made them accept the kingship of God. Then, Jesus said, “Why are you terrified? Do you not yet have faith?” I believe the crisis is over if our total dependence on Jesus, who manifests God’s coming into our midst, is firm and strong. If we feel deeply in our hearts that by accepting Jesus, our lives can be the same. This is exactly what St. Paul tells us, “The old things have passed away; behold, new things have come.”

Third, His disciples said to one another; “Who then is this whom even wind and sea obey?” After Jesus calmed down the sea, wind and waves, there was that peace and quiet. The disciples were surprised by the display of power that they have witnessed because Jesus lives in total trust of God. They placed themselves in the moment of grace to understand and cherish that Jesus also brings straight to their faces the ability to recognize God’s heart.

We always seek peace and fidelity to God, but oftentimes, trials and personal storms within cause us to become disturbed. It is because of our wrong choices in life. Instead of seeking Jesus for help, we engage in making storms and continue bringing others to those stormy issues in our lives. We drag others to our own divisions and misery. How do we resolve this problem? No matter how experienced we are in maneuvering our personal boat, we cannot do it alone for we need Jesus with us. Is Jesus with you in your boat of life? Even though how much we are aware of battling problems and storms that come our way, we will surely sink, and it is impossible to be saved unless Jesus is present.

Brothers and sisters, Jesus is asking us whether our fears, anxieties and unbelief can be conquered by Him who gives us the real freedom thru faith and by Jesus’ faithfulness to us. It is true that we encounter different storms in life, but as we struggle to get out from that chaos, it is necessary to find God’s love and care first.

God bless you.

Fr. Arlon, osa

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El Dictado del Corazón

Decimotercero Domingo del Tiempo Ordinario, año B

• Sabiduría 1:13-15; 2:23-24
• Salmo 30:2, 4, 5-6, 11, 12, 13
• 2 Corintios 8:7, 9, 13-15
• Marcos 5:21-43 o 5:21-24, 35b-43

Hoy es el Decimotercer Domingo del Tiempo Ordinario. Aprecio la liturgia de la Iglesia porque nos lleva a las asombrosas historias sobre los milagros de Jesús. Jesús no quiere que muramos, sino que estemos a salvos de la muerte. Él nunca se regocija en la muerte porque sabe que es consecuencia del pecado. Los que están con el diablo sólo experimentan la muerte. Así, nuestra preferencia por la vida eterna podría atribuirse a fomentar nuestras buenas actitudes de permanecer en el amor y estar con Dios, que es vida.

Creo que esta temporada de verano nos hará darnos cuenta del ciclo de la naturaleza. La temporada ofrece a todos una nueva perspectiva de estar vivos. Así que estemos siempre agradecidos y no nos quejemos de las cosas que experimentamos mientras estamos aquí en la tierra. Debemos entender que el inusual aumento de calor en la atmósfera es consecuencia de la negligencia por no cuidar la Tierra. Nosotros, de una forma u otra, contribuimos al cambio climático que está afectando al mundo. Podemos contribuir un poco a cambiar nuestro estilo de vida, como la correcta eliminación de residuos en casa, y la conservación del agua y la energía, son sólo formas sencillas de mostrar nuestro amor por nuestro medio ambiente. Se pueden evitar los despilfarros, pensemos en la miseria de los demás, en las necesidades y en la generación venidera.

La primera lectura del libro de la Sabiduría nos recuerda que cuando elegimos a Dios, elegimos la vida eterna, yendo en contra de la voluntad de Dios, nos volvemos hacia la muerte. Este libro dice claramente: “Dios no hizo la muerte, ni se regocija en la destrucción de los vivos”. (v.13)

La segunda lectura de la segunda carta de San Pablo a los Corintios se centra en ser pobre. San Pablo dice: “Por nosotrosse hizo pobre, para que nosotros con su pobreza nos enriqueciéramos”. (v.9) Para comprender mejor este mensaje de San Pablo, Jesús se hizo humano y se expuso a la situación humana de estar inclinado a todo tipo de vulnerabilidades como la muerte y otros sufrimientos. Sin embargo, según el ejemplo de generosidad de Jesús y de compartir nuestras bendiciones materiales con los demás, también compartimos el don de Dios de proveer para aquellos que tienen menos. Es de Cristo siendo pobre que otros aprenden a ser generosos.

La muerte nos arrebata muchas cosas a las que no podemos aferrarnos cuando morimos. Pero nuestras relaciones amorosas con los demás siguen siendo la medida de lo buenos que somos aquí en la tierra. Las ganancias materiales desaparecerán, pero los amigos y familiares quedarán atrás con recuerdos preciados sobre nosotros, ¿verdad?

El evangelio de San Marcos nos narra dos historias distintas: una mujer que sufrió hemorragias durante 12 años y una niña de 12 años que fue resucitada por Jesús de entre los muertos. En nuestras reflexiones de hoy, nos centramos en algunos mensajes importantes que son relevantes para comprender este evangelio.

En primer lugar, la historia de la mujer que sangraba abundantemente durante muchos años puede haber llegado al punto de la desesperanza. Ella escuchó de Jesús, entonces lo que quería era una intervención de un hombre que había ganado a más personas por ser hacedor de milagros. Ella acude a Jesús en busca de curación porque lo intentó todo y gastó gran parte de su dinero, pero no le pasó nada. Ella fue sanada gracias a su fe en Jesús. Fue una coincidencia que la sangre que experimenta continuamente habla de dos cosas: La sangre en Levítico 13:19-29 en la tradición judía es una participación en la vida de Dios, por otro lado, puede ser un llamado a la purificación porque se refiere a las impurezas y a la inmundicia. Ir a Jesús en fe es una nueva experiencia purificadora de creer en Jesús que viene a dar vida como Su misión en la tierra.

Segundo, el viaje de Jesús a la casa del funcionario para cumplir otra misión. Hubo una conmoción de gente pensando que la pequeña ya estaba muerta. Sin embargo, la fe del Padre en Jesús fue fuerte lo que hizo que su hija volviera a la vida. Cuando Jesús dijo estas palabras: “Niña, te digo, levántate”, la niña se levanta y camina. La “gente estaba completamente asombrada”. (vv.41-42). Jesús volvió a traer vida no sólo a la mujer con hemorragia sino también a la niña. Jesús quiere que seamos salvos y tengamos vida.

En tercer lugar, esta historia del evangelio nos recuerda la necesidad de la fe en Jesús. Creo que esta no es una historia del pasado sino nuestra historia presente y nuestra experiencia personal de Jesús de que nosotros también somos destinatarios de los milagros curativos de Jesús. Somos sanos porque tenemos fe como la mujer y el oficial de la sinagoga que se acercó a Jesús. Debemos ser humildes para pedir ayuda al Señor con fe.

¿Qué nos está diciendo Jesús? Jesús dice: “No temas; solo ten fe.” Varias veces en las Escrituras encontramos la palabra “No temas”. Mi comprensión es como la de un niño cuando sus padres le piden que se acerque a ellos, sin dudarlo, el niño hará un esfuerzo para acercarse.

dobladillo, no te preocupes, sin dudar, pero con gran confianza. De la misma manera, en nuestra vida cristiana, necesitamos dejarnos llevar y dejar a Dios, confiarle todo a Dios. Un milagro ocurre todos los días sin darnos cuenta.

Ahora el desafío es este; cuando tenemos experiencia de curación, provoca que todos no sólo permanezcan en el consuelo de creer, sino que nos hace convertirnos, actuar con bondad y amor hacia los demás. Si tenemos fe, no debe ser sólo un compartir personal sino comunitario en comunión con Dios para mejorar las vidas de los demás y del mundo.

Dios los bendiga.

P. Arlón, osa

• 1 Peter 3:8-15
• Matthew 5:20-24

Today is the 5th Sunday after Pentecost. I hope and pray that you are coping well with this summer heat. I grew up in a tropical country, so I thought I was used to this weather, but as I stay longer in the US where we have four seasons, the body has been acclimatized to the weather. That is why I have difficulty to bear the hot weather here. However, speaking of spiritual growth, it is not about what you feel, but what you have learned through the years that made you aware of what is going on in your interior life, which St. Peter says in our epistle today, is indeed a blessing, “For he that will love life, and see good days, let him refrain his tongue from evil, and his lips that they speak no guile.”

The epistle has a clear message that we must live in harmony with one another as brothers and sisters. If we become sympathetic, compassionate, loving, and humble towards others, our good attitude will result in more received blessings. As God’s children, we must turn away from evil and do good. Though God always seeks the sinners, this gives everyone an opportunity to seek God and continue to pursue Him. The mercy of God gives us hope. Let us all be gentle and respectful to each other for the Lord died for our sins and to give us a chance, keeping us with a clear conscience in order to bring us all back to God. It is better to comply with this calling of holiness by doing good than by doing evil. God keeps His eyes on those who are trying to change themselves and become holy and “His ears are attentive to their prayers.”

The gospel taken from St. Matthew is an exhortation of Jesus to His disciples when He said, “Except your justice abound more than that of the Scribes and Pharisees, you shall not enter into the kingdom of God.” This connotes that the strong resolution to justify oneself and one’s actions is by doing them with sincerity of heart displaying the righteousness and grace of God. He wants us, as God’s children, to manifest the heart and character of God in our daily lives. This is Jesus’ desire to establish His kingdom in a new generation as inspired by His life and sacrifices for us all.

Another point that St. Matthew mentioned in his gospel today is about how Jesus interprets and explains the Law of God. It was clear that Jesus was breaking the erroneous interpretations and attests to the fact that the attainment of the Law of God must be practiced with a greater justice, which is Jesus’ commandment of Love. Thus, we should avoid hatred, envy, and jealousy towards others. We need to learn the spirit of forgiveness, love, and acceptance, for God always forgives our sins no matter how grave they are, and so we should do the same towards our neighbors. We need to forgive! For whatever we do to others, we do it to God.

Therefore, what God wants us to understand is that we need to outdo the wrong attitude of the Pharisees and Scribes which, for them, observing the Law is the most important. This is not what Jesus wants to teach us. The words of Jesus on justice come from what God has done for us, which proposes that we too must base on being pardoned and embraced with God’s mercy despite our defects and sins. Before we realize the need to forgive others, God first shows us His forgiveness and pardons and accepts who we are. People are afraid and hesitant to practice these core values of the gospel.

Look not at our failures or mistakes, but look into or examine our hearts and know that we too are recipients of God’s greater love and pardon. Always remember that we are asked to be reconciled with God and others. Reconciliation demands acceptance and understanding.

Today many people seek justice. How do I understand the call on Jesus to practice justice? Is it in accordance with Jesus’ teaching?

God bless you.

Fr. Arlon, osa

• Ezekiel 17:22-24
• Psalm 92:2-3, 13-14, 15-16
• 2 Corinthians 5:6-10
• Mark 4:26-34

Today is the day we remember all fathers.  I give honor and respect to those fathers who render sacrifices to guide and to raise their children with love.  May God bless you and your family always. 

Today’s liturgical calendar is the 11th Sunday in Ordinary Time, Year B. I have observed that the color green has become prominent in my surroundings. Seeds are starting to sprout, and flowering plants are beginning to bloom. Everything adds joy to everyone and to our Mother Earth, but we cannot avoid the unfortunate consequence to our physical condition.  The high count of pollen in the atmosphere from oak trees and other plants cause severe irritation in the eyes and clogged and sneezy noses.  I personally have that summer sickness.  I must accept that summer permits us to stay outdoors; however, we need to be extra careful. 

In our Sunday readings today, we hear beautiful allusions from the many significant events in the history of Israel and from Jesus’ parables.  

The first reading is taken from the book of the Prophet Ezekiel.  To understand the original meaning of this scriptural text, there are many symbolisms we need to familiarize ourselves with, for example, “All that the trees of the field shall know that I, the Lord bring low the high tree and lift high the lowly tree, wither up the green tree and make the withered tree bloom.”  What we hear signifies Israel’s defeat, and so she needs to have a return and be replanted back in Jerusalem.  It is also to announce the coming time when God (messianic prophecy) is going to bring back Israel, a promise where God is going to make valleys raised, and mountains made low.  The lowly tress will branch above the lofty which will wither and be brought low.  “It shall put forth branches and bear fruit,” which signifies those who are faithful and loyal kings who will form the new kingdom.  “Birds of every kind shall dwell beneath it,” refers to its pristine and innocence as in the book of Genesis after the flood.  

The 2nd reading from the second letter of St. Paul to the Corinthians reminds us that we have courage “for we walk by faith, not by sight.”  It means that our faith makes us persevere in walking with confidence.  The word “confidere” in Latin means to believe.  We know that we believe and trust God in the midst of difficult challenges and that it is hard to imagine how we could dare to have hope. We might be tempted to lose courage, but our faith dictates that it’s not the way we think of having the power to be victorious. Rather, we need God alone, believing that He alone can redeem, and besides that, the Lord knows more than we understand. 

The gospel consists of two parables: 

In the 1st parable a farmer is scattering seeds on the land.  The seeds grow and bear fruits even without human intervention.  The farmer can harvest its fruits with God’s grace, which moves mysteriously in ways that we cannot understand.  We plant seeds, maybe with little effort to cultivate them, but we believe that God is in control and not us.   In the same manner, the kingdom of God continues to grow mysteriously, for God is the real builder and we just cooperate with Him.  Therefore, we are called to place ourselves in God’s loving hands and not to be so trusting with our own human capability.  If we are truly committed to living out the gospel values in our lives, then, even though we might not see the results immediately, it is possible that we have no idea of how we are witnessing God’s work in us and influencing others by our fidelity and trust in God.  

The Kingdom of God grows within every person precisely because in human interiority, we seek and find God according to St. Augustine.  Though it cannot be attained in human intellectual pursuits, we search God in the heart.  It has established quietly in our interior life where the heart is attracted to Divine Goodness. It grows when we humbly commit ourselves in prayer and enables us to fertilize our hearts with His Words and Sacraments. 

The 2nd parable is about the kingdom of God as compared to a mustard seed. Though the smallest of seeds, it springs up to become the largest of plants.  It describes to us the humble beginning of the kingdom of God which is likened to a mustard seed.  A mustard seed is the tiniest of all seeds which grows into the largest shrub and gives shade to the birds. 

The kingdom of God parable is identified by the good fruits we produce through the acts of faith, hope and charity.  This is precisely what the early Christians did.  They had terrible experiences of frustrations, desolations, and weak faith, but they cling to Jesus, our Lord, and to each other. And they slowly grow with much dependence in God who called them.  We too might be frustrated and even discouraged by continued deterioration of peoples’ trust in the Church, violence, hatred, and intolerance, but we cannot easily give up. 

I believe that God will make everything the way He wants it to be.  Now, I place my trust in Him, believing that He alone can heal our spiritual interior struggles with His love, mercy, and grace. Lord, please give us courage to sustain this faith and to witness it for others who need it from You and me. Then, we ask You to make our hearts fertile with good soil, so that love would bring more life and growth, not only for me, but for others and the whole Church. 

God bless you. 

Fr. Arlon, osa

Message to the Parishioners

Dear Beloved Brothers and Sisters,

It’s summer!!!  I notice that there is not much spring here in Carson City.  It seems that the season went right from winter to summer with no spring in between. We can’t see the back yard because of so many growing plants and trees with branches covered with green leaves.  It is just like the parable about the farmer sowing seeds and the next morning having big plants and not noticing the overwhelming growth right before his eyes.

In the same manner, our dear children have grown so fast.  Time flies so fast that it’s hard to imagine that they already have graduated from Pre-K, Elementary, Senior High, or this year have successfully done their college studies.  To all the graduates of 2024, thank you for your patience, diligence, and perseverance to reach a milestone of your success.  Congratulations to all, especially to the graduates of St. Teresa of Avila Catholic School.  

To the parents and guardians who have journeyed with your children in their search for knowledge, guiding them and supporting their education, your sacrifices are not forgotten.  We thank you. 

To our Principal Peggy, teachers and staff, your tremendous hard work inspires the whole parish with your dedication and exemplary contribution to our students.  You have planted the seed and given the time to teach our students to yield fruits.  Hats off to everyone!

How good it is to thank and honor God, and the goodness of every parishioner is like a bountiful harvest, upright and fruitful and rooted in God. The kingdom of God parable is identified by the good fruits we produce through the acts of faith, hope and charily. This is precisely what contributed to the success of the lives of those early Christians. 

I have witnessed this reality, being with you for almost ten months in the parish of St. Teresa of Avila, I won’t forget how amazing everyone blossomed and grew in faith where I was happy ministering for a while in a forest loving and praising community.  I want to remain with you, in your loving hearts, whispering a blessing for all.  I have gained many friends, whom I cherish in my heart and certainly those memorable experiences together, especially celebrating daily and weekend masses and sharing gospel reflections are a few of the things to remember. They become the very source and strength of true friendships.  As an Augustinian Missionary, building friendship is our charism of life.  I am happy to have many friends here. Thank you for being a part of your faith-community and your faith journey.  St. Thomas Cathedral is just 25 minutes away!  See you there. 

Friends in Christ, when frustrations, desolations, and weak faith come, always call on Jesus and cling to Him.   Then, we can slowly recover from those things and grow with much dependence in God because He loves us.  In spiritual life, it is normal to feel emptiness, dryness, and discouragement by continued deterioration of trust in the Church, hatred, and intolerance, but please don’t easily give up.  God works in mysterious ways. 

I believe that God will make everything the way He wants it to be.  Now, we place our trust in Him, believing that He alone can heal our spiritual interior struggles with His love, mercy, and grace.   Lord, please give us courage to sustain this faith and to witness it for others who need it from You and me. Then, we ask the good Lord to make our hearts fertile with good soil, so that love will bring more life and growth, not only for us, but for others and the whole Church. 

God bless you. 

Fr. Arlon, osa

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 El Dictado del Corazón

Onceavo Domingo del Tiempo Ordinario, año B

• Ezequiel 17:22-24
• Salmo 92:2-3, 13-14, 15-16
• 2 Corintios 5:6-10
• Marcos 4:26-34

Hoy Celebramos a  todos los padres, mi respeto y admiración a aquellos padres que se sacrifican por educar, guiar, enseñar valores y por formar a sus hijos con amor y entrega total. Que Dios los bendiga junto a sus familias hoy y siempre.

El calendario litúrgico de hoy es el Onceavo Domingo del Tiempo Ordinario, Año B. He observado que los colores verdes en mi entorno se vuelven prominentes, las semillas comienzan a brotar y las plantas con flores comienzan a florecer, todo agrega alegría a todos y a nuestra Madre Tierra. Pero no podemos evitar la desafortunada consecuencia de nuestra condición física. El alto contenido de polen en la atmósfera procedente de robles y otras plantas provoca irritación grave en los ojos y nariz tapada y estornudos. Tengo náuseas de verano. Debo aceptar que el verano nos permite estar al aire libre, pero hay que tener mucho cuidado.

En nuestras lecturas de hoy, escuchamos hermosas alusiones a muchos eventos importantes en la historia de Israel y a las parábolas de Jesús.

La primera lectura está tomada del libro del profeta Ezequiel. Para comprender el significado original de este texto de las Escrituras, debemos familiarizarnos con muchos de los simbolismos, por ejemplo, “Todos los árboles del campo sabrán que yo, el Señor, bajo el árbol alto y levanto el árbol humilde”. , seca el árbol verde y haz florecer el árbol seco”. Lo que escuchamos significa la derrota de Israel, por lo que necesita regresar y ser replantado en Jerusalén. También es para anunciar el tiempo venidero en el que Dios traerá de regreso a Israel, una promesa en la que Dios elevará los valles y bajará las montañas. Los árboles humildes se ramificarán sobre los altos, quienes se marchitarán y caerán. “Producirá ramas y dará fruto”, lo que significa aquellos que son reyes fieles y leales que formarán el nuevo reino. “Debajo de él habitarán toda especie de aves”, se refiere a su inocencia prístina como en el libro del Génesis después del diluvio.

La segunda lectura de la segunda carta de San Pablo a los Corintios nos recuerda que tenemos valor “porque por fe caminamos, no por vista”. Significa que nuestra fe nos hace perseverar en caminar con confianza. La palabra “confianza” en latín significa creer. Sabemos que creemos y confiamos en Dios en medio de desafíos difíciles y es difícil imaginar cómo podríamos atrevernos a tener esperanza. Podríamos sentirnos tentados a perder el coraje. Pero nuestra fe dicta que no es la forma en que pensamos en tener el poder para ser victoriosos, sino que necesitamos solo a Dios, creyendo que solo Él puede redimir. Y además, el Señor sabe más de lo que entendemos.

El evangelio consta de dos parábolas:

La primera parábola trata de un granjero que esparce semillas en la tierra. Las semillas crecen y dan frutos incluso sin intervención humana. El agricultor puede cosechar sus frutos con la gracia de Dios que se mueve misteriosamente en formas que no podemos entender. Plantamos semillas, tal vez con poco esfuerzo para cultivarlas, pero creemos que Dios tiene el control y no nosotros. De la misma manera, el reino de Dios continúa creciendo misteriosamente porque Dios es el verdadero constructor y nosotros simplemente cooperamos con Él. Por eso, estamos llamados a ponernos en las manos amorosas de Dios y a no confiar tanto en nuestra capacidad humana. Si estamos verdaderamente comprometidos a vivir los valores del Evangelio en nuestras vidas, entonces, aunque no veamos los resultados, es posible que no tengamos idea de cómo estamos testificando e influyendo en otros a través de nuestra fidelidad y confianza en Dios.

El Reino de Dios crece en cada persona precisamente porque en la interioridad humana buscamos y encontramos a Dios según san Agustín. Aunque no se puede lograr en las actividades intelectuales humanas, buscamos a Dios en el corazón. Se ha establecido silenciosamente, en nuestra vida interior, donde el corazón es atraído por la Bondad Divina. Crece cuando nos comprometemos humildemente a la oración y nos permitimos fertilizar nuestro corazón con Sus Palabra y Sacramentos.

La segunda parábola trata sobre el reino de Dios en comparación con una semilla de mostaza, que aunque la más pequeña de las semillas brota hasta convertirse en la más grande de las plantas y da sombra a los pájaros. Nos describe el reino de Dios. 

La parábola del reino de Dios se identifica por los buenos frutos que producimos mediante el acto de fe, esperanza y caridad. Esto es precisamente lo que hicieron los primeros cristianos. Tuvieron terribles experiencias de frustraciones, desolaciones y fe débil pero se aferran a Jesús, nuestro Señor. Y poco a poco crecen con mucha dependencia de Dios que los llamó. Nosotros también podemos sentirnos frustrados e incluso desanimados por el continuo deterioro de la confianza de la gente en la Iglesia, la violencia, el odio y la intolerancia, pero no podemos rendirnos fácilmente.

Dios hará todo como Él quiere que sea. Ahora pongo mi confianza en Él, creyendo que sólo Él puede redimir este desastre con Su amor, misericordia y gracia. Señor, por favor danos el coraje para sostener esta fe y ser testigos de ella para otros que la necesitan de ti y de mí. Luego, te pedimos que hagas que nuestros corazones sean fértiles con buena tierra, para que el amor traiga más vida y crecimiento, no sólo para mí sino para los demás y para toda la Iglesia.

Dios los bendiga.

P. Arlón, osa

• Romans 8:18-23
• Luke 5:1-11

We are in the 4th Sunday after Pentecost.  I guess we are enjoying the summer weather with many things on our mind, like planning for a good summer vacation or outdoor activities with the whole family.  When travelling, however, always include God in your plans.  Stay connected with God in prayer and fulfill your Sunday obligation. 

We have inspiring readings today from the epistle and the gospel teaching us to hope in the face of humanity and to find comfort and consolation in this present affliction. 

The epistle from the letter of St. Paul to the Romans states that the sufferings of this present time “are not worthy to be compared with the glory that is to come, that shall be revealed to us.”  Human suffering is the consequence of man’s iniquity and sin.  However, there is Goodnews.  Our Lord Jesus Christ and His gospel are the only explanation and solution to our human sufferings.  We need to learn how to be reconciled and to submit ourselves to God.  When there is the great possibility to be reconciled with God and others, then we have a new way of viewing life in the world.  We fix our mind and spirit to that incomparable glory, which is to come as promised to us in Christ.  Are you groaning with creation?  We should not be discouraged and hopeless in finding the promise and plan of God.  We are all adopted children of God and, therefore, cast ourselves in His compassion and love.  

In today’s gospel pericope we find some interesting passages about a fruitful life with Jesus.  We are also challenged about how receptive we are to hear the Word of God.  Jesus is the embodiment of God in the world.   

First, Jesus saw two ships on the shore, and he went into one of the ships which belongs to Simon Peter.  He requested to move the ship a little closer to the shore, and then sitting He started to teach the multitude. (v3) I believe that people participated in Jesus’ spiritual teaching and He consoled so many people, but are we in the same boat where Jesus is? 

Following the example of Jesus, our task is to evangelize in order to spread the seed of the Good News.  We share the Word of God thru good deeds and actions toward everyone we encounter.  Jesus never promises us that we will see the fruit of our work for evangelization in our lifetime, but it is nice to talk about it or try coming to mass for a better understanding of our faith. 

Second, the disciples were frustrated about having no catch after a long night fishing.  Simon said, “Master we have labored all night.”   It was Simon’s honest answer to Jesus.  It is normal to be frustrated when at times we can hardly realize some of our expectations in life.  What happened to Simon Peter was that he was probably losing hope that day. It was difficult for him as he was trying to catch fish for his family, but after fishing all night he came up empty handed.  

We encounter many people in the same situation.  Though we are fortunate to walk with them on their journey, have we understood the condition they are in at their lowest moment? Probably, their spiritual life is dry and been dormant for years, just looking for someone who can lift up their downtrodden spirit.  Like Jesus who has been sensible towards others, we too must keep an eye out for those who are willing to find out a little more out of an act of charity and fraternal accompaniment.   

Third, Jesus says to Simon, “Launch out into the deep.” (vv.4-5) This is Jesus’ words of opportunities.  The challenge for Simon and the other disciples is to do what Jesus’ commands.  Following what is in Jesus’ heart for them is to achieve and to fulfill right here and right now.   What is Christ calling us to do? 

I think our readings today present a unique challenge. Perhaps, God is telling you something, maybe you have even felt something, but you have not followed through with it.  Are you willing to see for yourself if Jesus is real and if He is trying to speak with you in your solitude in prayer?   Maybe we are just lazy to explore, so take a little time to listen. 

Jesus says, “Fear not.”  “Do not be afraid.”   These words assure us that Jesus is giving us the grace to hope by submitting ourselves to His divine plan….we can work together in faith and journey together as brothers and sisters following Jesus, for He has an abundant promise if we just leave everything and faithfully follow Him. 

Ask the Holy Spirit to be with you and to help understand what God is telling you. When a word or phrase comes to you, let it sink into your heart.  Ask Jesus what he wants you to do about it. Let His word bear fruit in your life.    

God bless you.

Fr. Arlon, osa

• Genesis 3:9-15
• Psalms 130:1-2, 3-4, 5-6, 7-8
• 2 Corinthians 4:13-5:1
• Mark 3:20-35 

Today, we celebrate the 10th Sunday in Ordinary Time, Year B. We reflect on the readings today where the Holy Church makes us aware of our human condition that we are prone to and struggle against evil every day. However, the good news is that it is through Christ and in Christ that we are victorious because it is Jesus Christ, who is the true Messiah and the Son of God, who has the power over evil, and we obtain victory through Him.

The first reading from the book of Genesis narrates to us that Adam and Eve sinned against God by eating the fruit of the forbidden tree. They realized their own pride and sinfulness towards God that they were ashamed of being naked. Their disobedience resulted in the tainted and broken relationship with God, which unfortunately this holds up to our own maliciousness. There is that cycle of blaming one another without accepting their faults. Both of them never realize their faults and the consequences of their disobedient action. In the same manner, if we have done something wrong, it is hard to take ownership, and no one says sorry, or I was wrong. Our own excuses never erase the consequences of our actions. Instead we must humbly accept our mistakes which leads to an easy way to ask forgiveness.

In the 2nd reading from the letter of St. Paul to the Corinthians, St. Paul delivers to them a letter of encouragement and expresses his full support to the community of Corinth and for us who listen. St. Paul brings into the right perspective how essential it is to live a life of faith. He preaches with much conviction of a life with active participation in the resurrection of Jesus, which gives us new life and “our inner self is being renewed day by day.” He also reminds us that “as we look not to what is seen but to what is unseen, for what is seen is transitory, but what is unseen is eternal.” (v.18)

Applying these words to our life, when we accept that we are physically, spiritually, mentally, and emotionally dwindling because of age, we change our perspective about life. We choose to have more peace and strive to work with less anxieties and stress because we have a greater understanding of the truth. Thus, the inner self-being has been slowly renewed by God, if only we allow Him to do something for our integral transformation and conversion.

The gospel from St. Mark narrates to us about Jesus’ homecoming, not to his native place which is Nazareth, but his adopted place Capernaum. It was a place where people converge to listen to Him preaching. Just imagine how Jesus managed his time. Maybe from sunrise to sunset He was committed to fulfill His mission, to be with so many people teaching them up to the point that He had no more time to eat.

Let us meditate on the four important views in this gospel pericope.

First, Jesus was busy doing His mission for so many people. When His relatives heard about His presence, they said, “He is out of His mind.” (v.21) This is an expression of frustrations demonstrating their own rejection of Him, like the pharisees and scribes denying that Jesus was sent to fulfill His divinely given role by the Almighty Father for man’s liberation and salvation. This was outright rejection by the people and His relatives to do away with His miraculous works and powerful preaching. Despite this insulting remark, Jesus continued to remain committed to, and focused on, His ministry.

Second, Jesus is being accused of driving out demons because He’s in a league with evil. It is outrageous, but it does show how some religious people rebelled against him. Jesus speaks to them “How can Satan drive out Satan. If a kingdom is divided against itself, that kingdom cannot stand.” (v.23) Jesus was accused of casting out demons by the power of Satan rather than God. It is clear for Jesus to raise His points that “Satan can’t cast out Satan.” It is not something Satan would do because it would be essentially working against Satan himself. How could his kingdom flourish if Satan opposes himself? In reality, Jesus actually liberates the possessed by His power, being God. Having divine power to subdue anything that opposes His goodness is a sign of Jesus’ divinity.

Third, Jesus says, “Amen, I say to you, all sins and all blasphemies that people utter will be forgiven them. But whoever blasphemies against the Holy Spirit will never have forgiveness but is guilty of an everlasting sin.” What does this mean? In order to understand this verse, think of the Scribes and Pharisees who had witnessed all the good things Jesus had done; however, they continued denying the goodness of Jesus. They cannot accept the Truth, even though they had the knowledge because they don’t want to accept the truth and tried to manipulate the truth; therefore, they lied big time.

God is Truth, and telling a lie is contrary to the very nature of God. He cannot handle lying, where many people lie to the point of believing their own lies. Lying eventually warps our consciences where we cannot distinguish between the truth and falsehood.

Therefore, despite all the revelations and signs indicating Jesus as the Messiah, like the Pharisees and Scribes, some of us continue to reject Him. This is what is being referred to as the unforgivable sin against the Holy Spirit. The sin cannot be forgiven, not because God doesn’t want to forgive it, but because we reject God and no longer want to be forgiven.

Fourth, Jesus was told that His mother and His brothers arrived. Jesus asked them, “Who are my mother and my brothers?” He looked around and said, “Here are my mother and my brothers. For whoever does the Will of God is my brother, my sister and mother.” (v.34) Jesus teaches an important lesson today that through faith and obedience to God’s will, we all have the opportunity to become members of God’s family. Hence, if we are brothers and sisters of Christ, we must go through a dynamic process of personal encounter with Christ. We must prove it through our faithfulness and obedience to God’s Will. We must work for real intimacy with Jesus which is about communion with Him. It happens when our hearts becomes more like His.

Finally, as brothers, sisters or mother of Christ means that it goes beyond family and blood relation because our vital life is centered on God that is our absolute priority. Let us return to God. Even though God is being marginalized by a modern world, our society continues to promote general indifference to the Christian faith. Let us be submissive to God’s Will. Our total surrender and obedience to God is necessary for us and the world to survive.

God bless you.

Fr. Arlon, osa

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El dictado del corazón

Décimo Domingo del Tiempo Ordinario, Año B

• Génesis 3:9-15
• Salmos 130:1-2, 3-4, 5-6, 7-8
• 2 Corintios 4:13-5:1
• Marcos 3:20-35 

Hoy celebramos el Décimo Domingo del Tiempo Ordinario, Año B. Reflexionamos sobre las lecturas que hoy la Santa Iglesia nos hace conscientes de nuestra condición humana. Somos propensos a luchar contra el mal todos los días. Sin embargo, la buena noticia es que es a través de Cristo y en Cristo, que saldremos victoriosos, porque es Jesucristo, quien es el verdadero Mesías y el Hijo de Dios, quien tiene poder sobre el mal y obtendremos la victoria por medio de Él.

La primera lectura del libro del Génesis narra a Adán y Eva pecando contra Dios al comer del fruto del árbol prohibido. Se dieron cuenta de su orgullo y pecaminosidad hacia Dios. Les dio vergüenza al darse cuenta de que estaban desnudos. Su desobediencia resultó en que su relación con Dios ya no fuese igual y que lamentablemente resiste nuestra malicia. Existe ese ciclo de culparnos unos a otros sin aceptar nuestras faltas. Ambos nunca se dieron cuenta de sus faltas y de las consecuencias de sus acciones desobedientes. De la misma manera, si hemos hecho algo mal, es difícil responsabilizarnos y nadie dice “lo siento” ni admite su error. Nuestras excusas nunca borran las consecuencias de nuestras acciones. Es necesario ser humildes y aceptar nuestros errores, lo que lleva a pedir perdón y poder sanar.

En la segunda lectura de la carta de San Pablo a los Corintios, San Pablo les entregó una carta de aliento y expresó su total apoyo a la comunidad de Corinto y a nosotros que la escuchamos. San Pablo aporta la perspectiva correcta, esencial para vivir una vida de fe. Predica con mucha convicción que una vida con participación en la resurrección de Jesús puede darnos vida nueva y “nuestro ser interior se va renovando día a día”. También nos recuerda que “no miramos lo que se ve sino lo que no se ve, porque lo que se ve es transitorio, pero lo que no se ve es eterno”. (v.18)

Al aplicar estas palabras a nuestras vidas, cuando aceptamos que estamos física, espiritual, mental y emocionalmente disminuidos debido a la edad, cambiamos nuestra perspectiva de la vida. Elegimos tener más paz y esforzarnos por trabajar con menos ansiedad y estrés. Porque tenemos una mayor comprensión de la verdad. Así, el ser interior ha sido renovado lentamente por Dios, si tan sólo le permitimos hacer algo por nuestra transformación y conversión total.

El evangelio de San Marcos nos narra el regreso de Jesús, no a su lugar natal que es Nazaret sino a su lugar de adopción Cafarnaúm. Era un lugar donde la gente se reunía para escucharlo predicar. Imagínense cómo Jesús administró su tiempo, tal vez desde el amanecer hasta el atardecer estuvo comprometido a cumplir su misión, a estar con tanta gente enseñándoles hasta el punto de que no tuvo tiempo para comer.

Meditemos en cuatro puntos de vista de del evangelio:

Primero, Jesús estaba ocupado cumpliendo su misión para tanta gente, y cuando sus familiares se enteraron de su presencia, dijeron: “Está loco”. (v.21) Esta es una expresión de frustración que demuestra su rechazo hacia Él, como los fariseos y los escribas negaban que Jesús fuera enviado a cumplir una misión divinamente otorgado por el Padre Todopoderoso para la liberación y salvación del hombre. Este rechazo total por parte del pueblo y de Sus familiares acaba con Sus obras milagrosas y su poderosa predicación. A pesar de este comentario insultante, Jesús continuó comprometido y enfocado en Su ministerio.

En segundo lugar, se acusa a Jesús de expulsar demonios porque está aliado con el mal. Es indignante, pero muestra cómo algunas personas religiosas se rebelaron contra él. Jesús les habla: “¿Cómo puede Satanás expulsar a Satanás? Si un reino está dividido contra sí mismo, ese reino no puede subsistir”. (v.23) Jesús fue acusado de expulsar demonios por el poder de Satanás y no por el poder de Dios. Es claro para Jesús plantear sus puntos de que “Satanás no puede expulsar a Satanás”. No es algo que Satanás haría porque esencialmente estaría trabajando contra el mismo. ¿Cómo podría florecer su reino si Satanás se opone a sí mismo? En realidad, Jesús libera a los poseídos por su poder, siendo Dios. Tener el poder divino para dominar cualquier cosa que se oponga a su bondad, es signo de la divinidad de Jesús.

En tercer lugar, Jesús dice: “En verdad les digo que todos los pecados y todas las blasfemias que los hombres pronuncien serán perdonados. Pero quien blasfemia contra el Espíritu Santo nunca tendrá perdón, sino que es culpable de un pecado eterno”. ¿Qué quiere decir esto? Para entender este versículo, piensen en los escribas y fariseos que habían sido testigos de todas las cosas buenas que Jesús había hecho, sin embargo, continuaron negando la bondad de Jesús. No pueden aceptar la Verdad, a pesar de que tienen el conocimiento porque no quieren aceptar la verdad y tratan de manipularla, por lo tanto, mintieron mucho.

Dios es Verdad, y decir una mentira es contrario a la naturaleza misma de Dios. No puede soportar la mentira, algo que muchas personas mienten hasta el punto de creer sus mentiras. Mentir eventualmente deforma nuestra conciencia y no podemos distinguir entre la verdad y la falsedad.
Por lo tanto, a pesar de todas las revelaciones y señales que indican que Jesús es el Mesías, al igual que los fariseos y los escribas, algunos de nosotros seguimos rechazándolo. Esto es lo que se conoce como el pecado imperdonable contra el Espíritu Santo. El pecado no puede ser perdonado, no porque Dios no quiera perdonarlo sino porque nosotros rechazamos a Dios y ya no queremos ser perdonados.

Cuarto, a Jesús le dijeron que habían llegado su madre y sus hermanos. Jesús les preguntó: “¿Quiénes son mi madre y mis hermanos? Miró a su alrededor y dijo: “Aquí están mi madre y mis hermanos. Porque quien hacen la Voluntad de Dios es mi hermano, mi hermana y mi madre”. (v.34) Jesús enseña hoy una lección importante: a través de la fe y la obediencia a la voluntad de Dios, todos tenemos la oportunidad de convertirnos en miembros de la familia de Dios. Por tanto, si somos hermanos y hermanas en Cristo, debemos pasar por un proceso dinámico de encuentro personal con Cristo. Debemos demostrarlo a través de nuestra fidelidad y obediencia a la Voluntad de Dios. Debemos trabajar por una verdadera intimidad con Jesús, que se trata de comunión con Él. Sucede cuando nuestro corazón se vuelve más parecido al suyo.

Finalmente, ser hermanos, hermanas o madres de Cristo significa que va más allá de la relación familiar y consanguínea porque nuestra vida vital está centrada en Dios que es nuestra prioridad absoluta. Volvamos a Dios. Aunque Dios está siendo marginado por el mundo moderno, nuestra sociedad continúa promoviendo una indiferencia general hacia la fe cristiana. Seamos sumisos a la Voluntad de Dios. Nuestra total entrega y obediencia a Dios son necesarias para que nosotros y el mundo sobrevivamos.

Dios los bendiga.

P. Arlón, osa

• Ephesians 3:8-19
• John 19:31-37

Today we celebrate the External Solemnity of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus. I remember an icon of the Sacred Heart of Jesus hung in our family altar, a beautiful image of Jesus lovingly pointing to His heart as a gesture of Love and His invitation to adore and worship Him. Every time I glanced at that image, I felt joy, love, and peace. My mother had a great devotion to the Sacred Heart. She wore a scapular of the Sacred Heart, and every Friday she did the consecration to the most Sacred Heart of Jesus. Maybe because of her deep spirituality and devotion, the Lord granted her mercy and love and rewarded her with two Augustinian priest-sons.

The most Sacred Heart of Jesus was introduces to St. Margaret Mary Alacoque, a Visitation nun in France in the year 1670s with several apparitions of Jesus to her. It was an apparition that convinced St. Margaret to propagate the devotion throughout the world to express Jesus’ pure love for humanity. Jesus offered himself on the cross to show His mercy and redemption; thus, we too in return have to offer allegiance and love for God. We have countless devotions in the church, but we must always understand only one common message, that is, God emphasizes His love and mercy. This devotion to the Sacred Heart manifests joy and love. When we look at the icon, it summons us to enter into the divine source of charity. St. Margaret Mary described her experience of the Lord: “My Divine Heart is so passionately fond of the human race and of you.” It is our responsibility to reveal God’s love throughout the world by our good works, mercy, love, and kindness, for these are treasures of His heart. We must unite ourselves with Jesus’ mystical Heart that loves and makes our joy complete. It is the heart, the core of our humanity, with love, emotions, desires, and the force of the human will. The heart that is open will have that ability and the capacity to absorb Jesus’ Heart. In the Heart of Jesus, we experience His mercy and His infinite wish to be in a relationship with us.

The gospel of St. John reminds us that Jesus is the One who empties himself out for others, desiring our eternal salvation, seeking out the lost and, ultimately, offering His life on the cross. Every word, action, attitude, and ministry of Jesus manifests a perfect, pure, and selfless love for humanity. Jesus manifests His unconditional, infinite, and divine love of His Heart which is the power to heal the world of its hatred, sin, and rejection of God. This is the radical act of love and redemption.

Jesus’ death on the cross and resurrection is the gentle yet powerful absorption, refraction, and transformation of violence into love, sin into grace, hatred into forgiveness and death into life. The triumph of the Sacred Heart is the ultimate victory of love. With what is happening all over the world, our contemporary society must end violence of terrorism, mass shootings, abuse of children and the vulnerable, and defend human life and dignity so that we may find hope, healing, and peace through the Sacred Heart of Jesus Christ.

Sacred Heart devotion is not magic, but it is a sacred path for us to encounter the fullness of the Gospel which is simply God’s saving love poured out for us in Jesus Christ.

As we steadily progress in our knowledge and communion with the Lord, we will fall ever more deeply in love with Jesus and live out that transforming and redemptive relationship in every detail of our lives. This devotion unites our minds, hearts and wills in one great act of oblation — a total gift of self to the One who has first offered himself completely to and for us.

Lastly, Bishop Baron in his book on the Eucharist, wrote that Jesus is “breaking His heart in compassion.” When we receive Jesus’ Body during communion, what conscious thought does this bring to your heart? Do you accept it as a visible image of Jesus’ Sacred Heart? In the Eucharist, Jesus completely gives himself to us, literally entering into our bodies, souls, and lives. It is for us to encounter the love of the Lord.

Every First Friday, please consider consecrating your marriage, family, home, and life to the Sacred Heart in a formal way. It makes a big difference.

God bless you.

Fr. Arlon, osa