Category: Uncategorized

• Titus 2:1-8, 11-14
• Psalm 37:3-4, 18 and 23, 27 and 29
• Luke 17:7-10

I am wondering the reason why St. Paul mentioned in his letter to Titus about older women and young men to be reverent in their behavior, to be models of faith and be sound in speech. It simply means that as disciples of the Lord, we must always be a good example to everyone, especially to non-believers. 

In today’s gospel, Jesus tells the parable of the Master and the Servant. There are some points we need to know and learn from this story of Jesus.

First, we believe that God wants all men to be saved.  However, salvation is not to be imposed on God by insisting that we need to be saved because of the good things we do, like financial help we give to the church, alms we give to the poor or how many times we forgive others. Rather, we look at it in the whole concept of relationship between us and God, and between others and ourselves.  This relationship may flourish with our service, commitment, and love.  St. Augustine says, “My weight is my love.  (Pondus Meum Amor Meus) Wherever I am carried my love is carrying me.” (Confessions 13.9.10).

Second, the gospel tells us that the servant in the story is just doing what he is supposed to do.  He is expected to serve despite his hard work in his master’s field.  Being followers of the Lord, we must also recognize that the very act of serving God, our Master, is not only a call of duty, but rather we find meaning and hope to do extra work without requiring God to thank and reward us.  God is by nature generous and loving.  

Third, we don’t want to be called “unprofitable servants, we have done what we were obliged to do.” Following God’s commandments, of course, we are obliged to do; however, we need to do it because we love Him and are being faithful to Him, not to attract people to praise us but through us that they may praise and take delight in the goodness of God.

In doing so, beyond our obligation to keep God’s laws, we too are blessed. Because of our compassion and love for Him and for others, we will surely realize that “the salvation of the just comes from the Lord.” (Ps 37)

With smiles on our faces and joy in our hearts, we will surely be great in Heaven.  Jesus urges us to go beyond the expected of being a servant.  Let us discover and find our way to share our gifts and talents, wholeheartedly do good things and be grateful.

God bless you.

Fr. Arlon, osa

• Titus 1:1-9
• Psalms 24:1b-2, 3-4ab, 5-6
• Luke 17:1-6

I am just wondering about this reality regarding uploading photos on Facebook, and how many people express their liking. However, uploading the “Word of God“ only few people express their approval.  I guess this is the culture right now, to like the “face” they see in the pictures, but to dislike hearing the voice of God.  It is a little bit frustrating, but it is true.  We desire something that is temporal and not eternal.

St. Paul wrote to Titus in today’s epistle, that “he is a slave of God and Apostle of Jesus Christ for the sake of the faith of God’s chosen ones and the recognition of religious truth, in the hope of eternal life that God, who does not lie, promised before time began, who indeed at the proper time revealed his word in the proclamation with which I was entrusted by the command of God our savior.” Paul wants the Church of Crete to be faithful to Christ amidst conflicts.  Paul and Titus shared the firmness of faith in the Lord. As church leaders, they moved onward to greet peace to all for the transformation of Christians in Crete.

In today’s Gospel reading from St. Luke, Jesus reminds us of our responsibility for others.  He makes three points:

First, we do not lead others to sin.  It is our moral responsibility to be models of faith and be able to save others from falling into sin.  We share the very mission of the Lord to act according to what we expect of us as disciples of the Lord.

Second, we must challenge those who do sin.  We rely on the power of faith in us.  Just as we are given the gift of faith, it is fitting that we speak with courage and conviction when knowing our brethren is potentially about to tempt others to commit sin, then let our faith shine by preventing others from committing any wrongdoings that will sadden and displease God.

Third, we must forgive those who sinned, even those who have sinned against us. We need to take risks in having faith in ourselves and others.

Such risks will lead us to become the person that God is calling us to become, that is to be Christ-like, a forgiving person. The good news is that forgiveness is always available, and Jesus loves us forever.  Jesus tells us thru this gospel, forgive, forgive, and then forgive again; with just a little faith, you can do anything.  It is better to pray like the Apostles, “Lord, increase our Faith.”

God bless you.

Fr. Arlon, osa

• 2 Maccabees 7:1-2, 9-14
• Psalms 17:1, 5-6, 8, 15
• 2 Thessalonians 2:16-3:5
• Luke 20:27-38 pr Luke 20:27, 34-38

The Diocese of Reno, spearheaded by the Bishop, Priests and facilitators representing each parish, will gather together on November 17, 2022, to discuss how we would implement in the entire diocese, the process to study together the meaning of the Mass. This would start from a parish base small group discussion which would create the opportunity for a deeper understanding of the Eucharist, promote communion with God, and increase the knowledge of the Sacrament of the Holy Eucharist, as the summit and source of our lives as Catholics.  It is expected that this process will result in an increase of profound love and devotion to the Eucharist. 

Today is the 32nd Sunday in Ordinary Time.  The Holy Mass is a sacrament of the real presence of God.  As Catholics, we adhere to the fact that our celebration today is to be one and in union with God thru this sacrament.  Thus, we are happy to recite the responsorial psalm, “Lord, when your glory appears, my joy will be full.” This longing is not remote; it is happening right now with the Lord appearing thru the Liturgy of the Word and in the Liturgy of the Holy Eucharist.

Today, our careful reading of the scriptural passages is an opportunity to savor the sweetness of His words and spend time to digest its message which should not remain in our intellect but in our hearts to challenge us to pay attention. 

The over-all theme of the three readings points to death and resurrection.  The first reading from the Book of Maccabees narrates the story of seven brothers and their mother who are arrested and tortured for their faith in God.  They have lived the laws and customs as a Jewish family.  However, the family resisted the domination of King Antichus IV who wanted them to worship the Greek god of all gods.  The king and his commanders witnessed how the seven brothers were tortured without fear.  They were witnesses of being faithful Jews believing in the true God and, despite the ongoing torture, they recited prayers of hope as they suffered and died. They have forsaken earthly life and chosen life to come with God of their ancestors as their future. They challenge the King’s authority and his own eternal destiny for they believe that they will rise and live after the terror and death.  One of the brothers being tortured expresses his abiding faith by exclaiming: “It is my choice to die at the hands of men with the hope God gives of being raised up by him” (2 Mac 7:14).  St. Paul, in today’s second reading, calls on the Thessalonians and us that we must be delivered from perverse and wicked people for not having faith in the living God. It is only the Lord who will strengthen and guard us from the evil one.

In today’s gospel, St. Luke focuses on the Sadducees who deny there is a resurrection. Maybe some of us are not open to accept faith in the Lord, who promises resurrection after our death.  Let us journey together to understand this passage:

First, let us be honest about ourselves and ask, what is the purpose of life?  If there is no resurrection after death, then we are just like fallen leaves during this time of autumn.  Leaves fall and get dry and what remains is a barren tree.  We believe though that there is hope our garden will be beautiful again when spring comes.  This is simply the message of nature about life’s purpose.  It is in God that we trust, and the very foundation of life is love.  Therefore, our death on earth is truly related to the promise of Christ’s resurrection.

Second, Jesus confronted the Sadducees regarding their wrong teaching. The Sadducees thought they had found an opportunity to trap Jesus by their foolish argument.  Try to contemplate how Jesus was able to answer them directly.  “The children of this age marry and remarry, but those who are deemed worthy to attain to the coming age and to the resurrection of the dead neither marry nor are given in marriage.”  This is a very clear response that in talking about the future life with God, our resurrection completely changes our own perspective.

Third, the end of the gospel has these compelling words; “He is not the God of the dead, but of the living, for to him we are all alive.” Maybe our view of life has been dominated by our material concerns and limited to the idea of this physical world we live in; therefore, we have that difficulty to accept the teaching of Jesus.

Thus, having difficulty to accept the teaching of the “Resurrection”, we have conflicts between the present life and the “after-life,” which we need to address.  What must we do here during our earthly life to be part of the resurrection? We must be open to seek spiritual guidance, get into prayer, meditation, reflection and fully embrace the Spirit of Enlightenment.

God bless you.

Fr. Arlon, osa

El dictado del corazón: Trigésima segunda semana del tiempo ordinario, año C

• 2 Macabeos 7:1-2, 9-14
• Salmos 17:1, 5-6, 8, 15
• 2 Tesalonicenses 2:16–3:5
• Lucas 20:27-38 o Lucas 20:27, 34-38

La Diócesis de Reno, encabezada por el obispo, los sacerdotes y los facilitadores que representan a cada parroquia, se reunirán el 17 de noviembre de 2022 para discutir cómo implementaríamos en toda la diócesis el proceso para estudiar juntos el significado de la Misa a partir de una base parroquial. Discusión en pequeños grupos que crea la oportunidad de una comprensión más profunda de la Eucaristía, para promover la comunión con Dios y aumentar el conocimiento del Sacramento de la Sagrada Eucaristía, como cumbre y fuente de nuestra vida como católicos. El proceso esperará resultados de un aumento de devoción y un amor profundo a la Eucaristía.

Hoy es el Trigésimo Segundo Domingo del Tiempo Ordinario. La Santa Misa es un sacramento de la presencia real de Dios. Como católicos, nos adherimos al hecho de que nuestra celebración debe ser una y en unión con Dios a través de este sacramento. Por eso, nos alegramos de recitar el salmo responsorial: “Señor, cuando aparezca tu gloria, mi gozo será completo”. Este anhelo no es remoto, pero está ocurriendo ahora mismo que el Señor se aparece a través de la Liturgia de la Palabra y en la liturgia de la Sagrada Eucaristía.

Hoy, nuestra lectura, cuidadosa de los pasajes de las Escrituras, es una oportunidad para saborear la dulzura de la palabra de Dios y dedicar tiempo a digerir su mensaje que no debe permanecer en nuestro intelecto sino en nuestro corazón, para desafiarnos a prestar más atención.

El tema general de las treslecturas apunta a la muerte y la resurrección. La primera lectura del Libro de los Macabeos narra la historia de siete hermanos y su madre que son arrestados y torturados por su fe en Dios. Han vivido las leyes y costumbres como una familia judía. Sin embargo, la familia se resistió al rey dominante Antichus IV que quería que adoraran al dios griego de todos los dioses. El rey y sus comandantes presenciaron cómo los siete hermanos fueron torturados sin miedo. Fueron testigos de ser judíos fieles que creían en el Dios verdadero, a pesar de la tortura continua, recitaron oraciones de esperanza mientras sufren y mueren. Han abandonado la vida terrenal y eligen la vida para ir con el Dios de sus antepasados. Desafían la autoridad del Rey y su propio destino eterno porque creen que se levantarán y vivirán después del dolor y la muerte. Uno de los hermanos torturados expresa su fe exclamando: “Vale la pena morir a manos de los hombres, cuando se tiene la firme esperanza de que Dios nos resucitará. (2 Mac 7:14). San Pablo en la segunda lectura de hoy llama a los tesalonicenses y a nosotros a que debemos ser librados de las personas perversas y malvadas por no tener fe en el Dios vivo. Solo en el Señor nos fortalecerá y nos guardará del maligno.

En el evangelio de hoy, San Lucas se enfoca en los saduceos que niegan que haya una resurrección. Quizás algunos de nosotros no estemos abiertos a aceptar la fe en el Señor, quien promete la resurrección después de nuestra muerte. Caminemos juntos para comprender este pasaje:

Primero, seamos honestos con nosotros mismos y preguntémonos, ¿cuál es el propósito de la vida? Si no hay resurrección después de la muerte, entonces solo somos vida y hojas caídas durante esta época de otoño. Hojas secas y lo que queda es un árbol estéril. Pero creemos que hay esperanza de que nuestro jardín vuelva a ser hermoso cuando llegue la primavera. Este es simplemente el mensaje de la naturaleza sobre el propósito de la vida. Es en Dios en quien confiamos, y el fundamento mismo de la vida es el amor. Por tanto, nuestra muerte en la tierra está verdaderamente relacionada con la promesa de la resurrección de Cristo.

En segundo lugar, Jesús confrontó a los saduceos con respecto a sus enseñanzas incorrectas. Los saduceos pensaron que habían encontrado una oportunidad para atrapar a Jesús con su argumento. Pero trata de contemplar lo que Jesús es capaz de responderles directamente. “Los hijos de este siglo se casan y se vuelven a casar, pero aquellos que son considerados dignos de alcanzar el siglo venidero y la resurrección de los muertos no se casan ni se dan en matrimonio.” Esta es una respuesta muy clara de que hablar de la vida futura en Dios, nuestra resurrección, cambia completamente nuestra propia perspectiva.

Tercero, el final del evangelio tiene estas palabras convincentes; “Él no es Dios de muertos, sino de vivos, porque para él todos estamos vivos. Tal vez nuestra visión de la vida ha estado dominada por nuestras preocupaciones materiales y limitada a la idea de este mundo físico en el que vivimos; por lo tanto, tenemos esa dificultad para aceptar la enseñanza de Jesús.

Así, teniendo dificultad para aceptar la enseñanza de la “Resurrección”, tenemos conflictos entre la vida presente y la “vida después de la muerte” que debemos abordar. ¿Qué debemos hacer aquí durante nuestra vida terrenal para ser parte de la resurrección? Debemos estar abiertos a buscar guía espiritual, entrar en oración, meditación, reflexión y abrazar completamente el Espíritu para que nos ilumine.

Dios te bendiga.

Padre Arlón, osa

• Philippians 4:10-19
• Psalm 112:1-2, 5-6, 8, 9
• Luke 16:9-15

When we labor for God, we expect support and help from others or our community.  Even Jesus appointed the 12 Apostles to collaborate with Him in preaching the Goodnews.  It is not about who is better or popular, but being united with the same goal.  We need to be rich in good works, generous and ready to share in order to keep us on the path to Christ and with Christ.

In today’s reading from the letter of St. Paul to the Philippians, we heard Paul is making an appeal for steadfastness and unity in the Christian community in Philippi. He was praising them for their continued support in his ministry; however, he emphasized that it is not about being self-sufficient but, most importantly, to be grateful to everyone.  His relationship with them is not sustained or defined by just receiving gifts from them. It isn’t just about material exchanges of goods and services in times of need.  It is about the sharing of spiritual gifts, but with the riches in Christ Jesus.  When we give, we give to God and when we receive, we receive from God.  Hence, it is a relationship with utmost respect and encouragement for each other.

In today’s gospel from St. Luke, Jesus instructs His disciples that whatever we have acquired, like material things, we must use it to advance the gospel and the work of God.  It means that our effort is always towards the fulfillment of the Kingdom and our stewardship of service for others.

Jesus could not be silent about making statements for the Pharisees who loved or served material wealth.  Perhaps some of us are blinded too that instead of appreciating the material blessings afforded to us by God, we become greedy and prioritize financial gain and personal comfort without giving thought that all material gain is a sign of God’s reward for our good behavior.

Now, I realize that all material blessings on earth given to us are not to multiply them for our consumption or to make us richer and be justified as someone better than others.  I believe that whatever is entrusted to us should be used in order to serve God. We should not seek success on this earth with material bliss.  True wealth is not money, but what is in our hearts.

Dear Lord, please take from me my pride.  Touch me that I may rely on You, not wealth, because You provide all we need.  Let us do good.  Let us be with God, for “Blessed the man who fears the Lord.” (Psalm 112)

God bless you.

Fr. Arlon, osa

• Philippians 2:1-4
• Psalms 131:1bcde, 2, 3
• Luke 14:12-14

Today ends the month of October, and people are excited to gather this evening celebrating Halloween.  It is a festival which is a big, big deal in the US, a secular celebration with big time commercialization.  Americans spend money for their creepy and scary costumes, making it the largest commercial holiday apart from Christmas. I imagine every American spending over a hundred dollars just to buy Halloween attire. Inside and outside the house is fully decorated with stuff that are inviting to the bad spirits to come.  They are not only spending money for themselves, but they buy costumes as well for their pets.  Children go from door to door in a neighborhood saying, ‘trick or treat,” then they are given candies by the homeowner.  Originally, this festival was also connected to Ireland and Britain to celebrate the Celtic New Year which began on the first of November.  The Catholics then, make it a time to celebrate the feast of All Saints which is more spiritually uplifting because we learn how these holy people were able to reach the perfect eternal salvation by offering themselves to God.

In the first reading today taken from the Letter of St. Paul to the Philippians 2:1-4, he invites us to be “united in heart, thinking one thing.”  We must be united in faith and love to avoid living in utter selfishness.  It is a call to empower us all to change and addresses our weaknesses “by being of the same mind” in order to achieve things for the common good.

The Augustinians have this charism of living out “one mind, one heart intent upon God.”  The act of loving God has to be seen by our selfless acts for others. St. Paul has seen a great balance for he wants us to act in the same spirit.

The gospel today emphasizes much on our generosity, not only to our friends, but also, we need to do the same for the poor.  We need to become Christ to others by our gratuitous love especially for those who cannot repay our goodness.  The same love that we afford to our friends needs to be practiced as well, especially to  those in need.

When we think of “Halloween,” we must remember that we are called to holiness and to extend our generous heart of loving, setting no boundaries.  Jesus will be visiting us tonight knocking for a “Trick or Treat.”  We would be receiving a treat if we are good.  I hope and pray that we won’t be getting a “trick” which is an eternal punishment.  St. Paul says, “Do nothing out of selfishness or out of vainglory; rather, humbly regard others as more important than yourselves.” We treat others more than what we think of ourselves because this is exactly what Jesus wants us to be, a person for others!

Happy “Holy-win!”

God bless you.

Fr. Arlon, osa

• Wisdom 11:22-12:2
• Psalms 145:1-2, 8-9, 10-11, 13, 14
• 2 Thessalonians 1:11-2:2
• Luke 19:1-10

Today is the 31st Sunday in Ordinary Time, year C.  Our first reading from the Book of Wisdom has aided us to understand the goodness of God. Here God is presented as the Creator of the whole universe.  God is seen as the lover of all things and could never hate anything due to His goodness; He created everything out of love.  There is only one thing He did not create, and that is evil, because evil is totally oppose to His divine nature which is Good.  Our being sinful is our own creation, but it doesn’t mean that God has abandoned us because we are sinners.  We must be confident that God, our Creator, loves all that was created, even sinners.  All things are signs of God’s love and all things belong to God.

The second reading from the Letter of St. Paul to the Thessalonians says that as disciples, we should earnestly love to pray. Our prayer is that we become worthy of our calling to God’s kingdom and glory. We pray also that God would fulfill in us the work of faith with power so that we shine before men so others may glorify Him. We would then be glorified in and with Him.

Today’s gospel from St. Luke presents to us the interesting story of Jesus’ meeting with the tax collector, Zacchaeus, which is unique in the gospel of St. Luke. Hearing about the coming of Jesus, he climbed a sycamore tree in order to have a better view of the Lord, the Messiah, the Healer.  Because of the crowd, Zacchaeus cannot come closer to Jesus probably to avoid contact with his countrymen, for being a friend of Roman power, collecting tax from them. Aside from this, he was also short in height.  Consequently, he was up in a tree, not hiding, but he was conscious of being above the others.

He was not actually expecting Jesus to approach him and command him to get down from the tree.  Zacchaeus never expected anything extraordinary would happen when he voluntarily followed the words of Jesus. He thought he would remain incognito and one of the spectators, but now he was the center of attention and an actor amidst the huge crowd.

There are many good points to ponder on the unexpected event in the life of Zacchaeus.

First, Jesus invited Himself to dine with Zacchaeus. I believe that Jesus is again revealing His true identity as a merciful and a loving incarnate God. He comes to that place where He found a great sinner.  We know that He comes, not only for righteous people, but for sinners as well.

Second, when Jesus says, “Today I must stay at your house,” the “house” in this particular verse would mean, the universe He created, to effect true conversion initiated by Him. Jesus calls him back to His house, to God’s abode, after Zacchaeus admitted his wrongdoings.  Zacchaeus desires to live a new life and has a willingness to change from a notorious tax collector to his real self in order to serve and to be generous to others.

Third, Zacchaeus says, “I give half of my possessions to the poor, and if I happen to extort somebody, I make it up fourfold.”  By understanding his words, it clearly implies behavior that is sincere and a willing heart to repay fourfold for extortions.  I understand that he extorted many people and now has decided to make up with abundant restoration to those people he fooled.

Fourth, Zacchaeus seeing and welcoming Jesus, he sincerely made amend of his sinfulness.  He exploited people to maintain his position to the Roman Empire, so that he would not lose his status and position as chief tax collector.  He used and abused himself for helping this foreign power. However, seeing Jesus in person has led him to a profound change of heart.

Fifth, the grumbling bystanders make a prophetic announcement: “He has gone to stay at the house of a sinner.” This is like our own experience when we think that coming to church is indeed against all odds because we feel that we are ridiculed by others.  Remember that another’s comment against our willingness to come back to Christ is a grace and a gift.  We remember that the One, our Lord Jesus, who came and found Zacchaeus, who was lost, is the same Lord and Jesus who is inviting and calling us today to come to take up friendship and fellowship with Him.

This beautiful and heart-warming story ends with Jesus restating his mission of seeking and saving the “lost”. Many of us cannot remember the opportunity to see and meet the Lord in our lives. Think of how Zacchaeus, a rich tax collector who occupied a high position in the community, acted in a strikingly childlike behavior climbing a tree just to see Jesus.

Today God calls us all to seek the truth with childlike openness, so that we are ready to encounter the Lord Jesus and respond to His surprising initiatives in our lives. He might invite Himself to enter into our lives to show His goodness and love.  Therefore, after our conversion, St. Paul reminds us to glorify God and in turn we shall be glorified in and with Him which is exactly what Zacchaeus did.

God bless you.

Fr. Arlon, osa

El dictado del corazón: Trigésimo primer domingo del tiempo ordinario, C

• Sabiduría 11:22-12:2
• Salmos 145:1-2, 8-9, 10-11, 13, 14
• 2 Tesalonicenses 1:11-2:2
• Lucas 19:1-10

Hoy es el Trigésimo Primer Domingo del Tiempo Ordinario, año C. Nuestra primera lectura del Libro de la Sabiduría nos ayudado a comprender la bondad de Dios. Aquí se presenta a Dios como el Creador de todo el universo. Dios es visto como el amante de todas las cosas y nunca podría odiar nada debido a Su bondad, él creó todo por amor. Solo una cosa que Él no creó es el mal. Porque el mal se opone a Su naturaleza divina que es el Bien. El hecho de que seamos pecadores es nuestra propia creación, pero eso no significa que Dios nos haya abandonado porque somos pecadores. Debemos estar seguros de que Dios, nuestro Creador, ama a todo lo creado, incluso a los pecadores. Todas las cosas son signos del amor de Dios y todas las cosas pertenecen a Dios.

La segunda lectura de la Carta de San Pablo a los Tesalonicenses que, como discípulos, debemos amar fervientemente la oración. Nuestra oración es que seamos dignos de nuestro llamado para

el reino y la gloria de Dios. Y también, por los discípulos, incluyéndonos a nosotros, que Dios cumpla en nosotros la obra de la fe con poder. Que debemos brillar ante los hombres para que otros lo glorifiquen, y entonces seremos glorificados en el y con Él.

En el evangelio de hoy de San Lucas nos presenta la interesante historia del encuentro de Jesús con el recaudador de impuestos Zaqueo que es único en el evangelio de San Lucas. Al enterarse de la venida de Jesús, se subió a un árbol sicómoro para tener una mejor vista del Señor, el Mesías, el sanador. Por la multitud, Zaqueo no puede acercarse a Jesús o probablemente evitar el contacto con sus compatriotas, por ser amigo del poder romano para cobrarles impuestos, además de ser bajo de estatura. En consecuencia, estaba arriba del árbol, no se escondía pero era consciente de que su imagen estaba por encima de los demás.

En realidad, no esperaba que Jesús se le acercara y le ordenara que bajara del árbol. Zaqueo nunca esperó que algo extraordinario sucediera cuando voluntariamente siguió las palabras de Jesús. Pensó que permanecería de incógnito y uno de los espectadores, pero ahora era el centro y un actor en medio de la gran multitud.

Hay muchos buenos puntos para reflexionar al ver el evento inesperado en la vida de Zaqueo.

Primero, Jesús se invitó a sí mismo a cenar con Zaqueo. Creo que Jesús está revelando nuevamente su verdadera identidad como un Dios encarnado misericordioso y amoroso. Él viene a ese lugar donde encontró a un gran pecador. Sabemos que Él viene, no solo por los justos sino también por los pecadores.

Segundo, cuando Jesús dice: “Hoy debo quedarme en tu casa”. La “casa” en este versículo en particular significaría el universo que Él creó, para efectuar la verdadera conversión iniciada por Él. Jesús lo llama de regreso a Su casa, a la morada de Dios después de que Zaqueo admitió sus malas acciones. Zaqueo desea vivir una nueva vida y está dispuesto a cambiar de un recaudador de impuestos notorio a un yo real para servir y ser generoso con los demás.

En tercer lugar, Zaqueo dice: “Doy la mitad de mis bienes a los pobres, y si extorsiono a alguien, se lo cuadruplicaré”. Por entender claramente sus palabras implican una conducta que es sincera, su corazón dispuesto a pagar cuatro veces las extorsiones, lo cual entendería que extorsionó a muchas personas y ahora decidió compensar con abundante restauración a aquellas personas a las que engañó.

Cuarto, Zaqueo explotó regularmente a la gente para mantener su posición en el Imperio Romano, para que no perdiera su estatus y posición como principal recaudador de impuestos. Se usó y abusó de sí mismo por ayudar a esta potencia extranjera. Sin embargo, el encuentro con Jesús lo ha llevado a un profundo cambio de corazón.

Quinto, con los transeúntes quejumbrosos haciendo un anuncio profético: “Se ha ido a vivir a la casa de un pecador”. Esto es como nuestra propia experiencia cuando pensamos que ir a la iglesia es realmente contra viento y marea porque sentimos que los demás nos ridiculizan. Recuerda que el comentario de otros en contra de nuestra voluntad de volver a Cristo es una gracia y un regalo. Recordemos que Aquel que vino y encontró a Zaqueo, que estaba perdido, es también una invitación de que Jesús ha venido a tomar amistad y comunión con nosotros.

Esta hermosa y conmovedora historia termina con Jesús reafirmando su misión de buscar y salvar a los “perdidos”. Muchos de nosotros no podemos recordar la oportunidad de ver y conocer al Señor en nuestras vidas. Piense en cómo Zaqueo, un rico recaudador de impuestos y que ocupaba un alto cargo en la comunidad, actuó de manera sorprendentemente infantil al subirse a un árbol solo para ver a Jesús.

Hoy Dios nos llama a todos a buscar la verdad con una apertura infantil, para estar preparados para encontrar al Señor Jesús y responder a sus sorprendentes iniciativas en nuestra vida. Podría invitarse a sí mismo a entrar en nuestras vidas para mostrar su bondad y amor. Por lo tanto, después de nuestra conversión, San Pablo nos recuerda que glorificamos a Dios ya su vez seremos glorificados en y con Él, que es exactamente lo que hizo Zaqueo.

Dios te bendiga.

Padre Arlón, osa

• Philippians 1:18-26
• Psalm 42:2, 3, 5
• Luke 14:1, 7-11

One of the hardest things in life is to remain humble.  Sometimes we are so much into pushing ourselves to be given importance by others.  It is true that we struggle a lot. However, Jesus and all of the saints set an example to live out our calling to be humble in order to be effective disciples to carry out our calling to serve God in others and not ourselves.   Seeking humility is actually setting a balance in our Christian living, remaining humble despite our accomplishments and successes.

In today’s epistle, St. Paul says, “And this I know with confidence, that I shall remain and continue in the service of all of you for your progress and joy in the faith.” (Philippians 1:25) St. Paul wrote these words when he was captured and languished in prison.  Though he was not afraid, he knew that his future was uncertain.  However, deep in his heart, he was determined to fulfill his mission. We too, like St. Paul, must also remember that our mission as Christians remains the same up to the present, i.e., to serve others to enable their progress and joy in the faith.

Today, as I am reflecting on today’s gospel, I remember my experience with my parishioner who has been involved in charity works but, because of her simplicity and humility, she doesn’t want to share on social media or with others or publicize it because she doesn’t want recognition.  She silently does her charitable works without exulting herself because she believes God knows what we do and God receives the glory.

Some people want a sense of entitlement.  They expect the best seat and like to be treated well at work or public places.  Nevertheless, the gospel reminds us of the dangers of thinking too highly of ourselves and thinking everything revolves around us. Here Jesus is very direct in teaching us the important virtue, that is to humble ourselves always. Humbling ourselves by serving others is not about helping them to be served but to gain the grace of God and not to be exalted but keeping the attitude of “other-centered” solely for God’s name to be glorified.

Thus, let us work on living out God’s mission and keeping Jesus’ words, “For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but the one who humbles himself will be exalted.”

God bless you.

Fr. Arlon, osa

• Ephesians 6:10-20
• Psalm 144:1, 2, 9-10
• Luke 13:31-35

Last Sunday, October 23rd, the Catholic Church celebrated World Mission Sunday.  I have preached about Jesus’ mandate to all who are baptized, to participate in the challenging task of proclaiming the message of God to the whole world, even in the midst of difficulties, where this modern world is hostile to receive the message of Christ.  The mission work is not just limited to bishops, priests, religious and missionaries, but to all followers of the Lord. We must carry the Goodnews so that, through us, others may know God.  I have been a missionary for 27 years, and I am blessed for being “Sent.”  I am aware that this mission work is not only for myself, and I am always happy to bring up the name of the Order of St. Augustine, of which I am an active member

On October 25, 2022, one of my Augustinian confreres, Fr. Alfredo Jubac, OSA, visited me for the first time from the Philippines. He will stay with me for a few days, and he wants to be immersed in my work in the diocese.  Of course I am happy with his visit, for it renews our Augustinian fraternity. His presence is indeed a support, living out our charism of “being one mind and heart.”  In addition, having a brother visiting gives us time for sharing our challenging works and our battles dealing with many interior thoughts and feelings that invade our hearts.  As we listen to each other, we have realized the value of brotherhood and bonding, which actually leads us always to God.

In today’s first reading from the Letter of St. Paul to the Ephesians, he says, “Draw your strength from the Lord and from His mighty power.  Put on the armor of God so that you may be able to stand firm against the tactics of the Devil.” This is what we must learn from St. Paul, that our weight and strength is when we call on God.

Every time we read the scriptures, we are inspired and so often it rouses us to do something good and even change ourselves for the better.  We always look for the path to perseverance.

In today’s gospel, some Pharisees came to Jesus to warn Him to go away because Herod wants to kill him.

Everywhere and every time, we are exposed to the danger of dying or being killed. The Pharisees and religious leaders were targeting Jesus in order to silence Him.  Why? It is because He speaks the truth, and these people, hearing His voice, instead of walking towards the light, they continue to protect their self-interest, power and pride.

As we read this gospel, we need to resist the enticement of the devil.  We are under siege by the forces of darkness in this present world.  We must be prepared to fight off the evil one. We need to protect our entire being so that we can continue to run the race, like St. Paul, faithful to his calling to preach about peace and love for those who do not know God yet.

Let us be shielded by His truth in His word. We cannot fight off the evils without knowing the word of God. “ Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.”

God bless you.

Fr. Arlon, osa

• Ephesians 6:1-9
• Psalms 145:10-11, 12-13ab, 13cd-14
• Luke 13:22-30

Two weeks ago as I walked in the neighborhood, I saw houses decorated with scary skeletons, spiders, witches, coffins, etc….I think people are so much into bad spirits which could give them an opening to bad spirits’ infestations.  They never realize that some welcome the prince of darkness in disguise.  To knock on the door, like “trick-or-treaters,” the unknown power of darkness could molest them.

Our readings today remind us to be obedient to our parents and to our superiors and, at the same time, believing in the faithfulness of the Lord so that we can enter into the kingdom of heaven for our salvation.

The first reading starts with a directive to obey and honor our parents.  In fact, in the Old Testament, it was promised that those who are respectful and loving towards their parents will be abundantly rewarded, especially with a long life.  The parents, on the other hand, should not provoke their children in anger but make them happy to connect with God. Parents must also be loving and kind reflecting the whole family as faithful followers of the Lord. So, no matter what, we should always serve the Lord in all we do.  We should serve Him in our actions and attitudes and keep Him as the center of our family.

The gospel today narrates to us about someone from the crowd asking Jesus,  “Lord, will only a few people be saved?” Jesus answered using the image of a “narrow gate”, saying many will attempt to enter but will not be strong enough, and many others will be turned away when they knock on the door.  What is the “narrow gate? It can be a metaphor for many things, or it may be challenging and difficult.  Maybe, we should not be careless in our faith in the Lord.  There must be a commitment on our part, like making critical decisions and free choice so that in having serious discernment we can arrive at this narrow gate, then finally be led to salvation.  I believe that in this desire and longing to enter the “narrow gate,” we should truly place much attention on the present moment and not be defined by our resentments from the past or fears and anxieties of the future.

Let us pray that Jesus will lead us on the right path to arrive at, and be able to enter through, the right door. Let us strive hard until the path is completely right and the door is open wide enough that we may enter. Jesus is knocking at the door of every heart; let us never lack in hope.

God bless you.

Fr. Arlon, osa

• Ephesians 5:21-33
• Psalm 128:1-2, 3, 4-5
• Luke 13:18-21

I have encountered people who seem happy from outside appearance, but inside they carry so much pain and anguish in life.  They have tried in life to overcome them without people noticing their own pretentions. I guess it is really hard for them to keep everything inside their hearts, seemingly building up their own kingdom.

Today’s reading from the letter of St. Paul to the Ephesians tells us that we must, “Be subordinate to one another out of reverence for Christ.”  The passage is also an admonition to husbands and wives.  Maybe this advice for wives to be, “subordinate to their husbands in everything for the husband is head of his wife just as Christ is head of the Church,” becomes taboo in this period of modern history.  Couples fight for equality in their vows and commitment in marriage.  I definitely don’t see life-giving marriage in the Church where one is inferior and the other is superior.

What is essential in marital covenant is when both work to make the marriage or family work. I believe what St. Paul wants to convey is that, to live godly lives starts first with our love and respect for each other, especially in the ways we assume responsibility for others, especially to children, spouses, family, and neighbors.

When we live according to the principles of life and keep the commandment of love, for sure it is a clear path to heaven amidst this imperfect world.  Why try to think that our immediate mission is to strive to create a world in which everyone feels that the Kingdom of God may be easily found here on earth.  This Kingdom of God is primarily centered in love and respect for each other in view of God’s calling for all.

The kingdom of heaven is beyond what we can humanly expect. It would be a good help to focus on things that God wants us to accomplish, lest we become frustrated.  After all, frustration is the direct result of being an independent and individualistic person.  What matters most is for oneself rather than for the common good.

I pray today that we can also see the Kingdom so clearly when we all submit ourselves to Christ who is the head and the way to the real kingdom.  St. Paul is inviting husbands and wives to be self-giving and self-emptying, and for the whole Church to offer to each other genuine service.

Dedicated and loving service is the key in this perspective as we concretize our common aspiration building the kingdom here and now.

God bless you.

Fr. Arlon, osa