Destined to die | Mortui

You were dead through the trespasses and sins in which you once lived, following the course of this world, following the ruler of the power of the air, the spirit that is now at work among those who are disobedient (Ephesians 2:1-2).

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Reflecting on the pastoral writings of St. Paul in Ephesians 2:1-10, I’m reminded that apart from the mercy & grace of God, I was destined to die in my sins. St Paul summed up his theology of God’s Grace in verses 8-10: For by grace you have been saved through faith, and this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God—not the result of works, so that no one may boast. For we are what he has made us, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand to be our way of life. 

My only right response to the infinitely wonderful grace & mercy shown to me is a heart full of gratitude, expressed through this familiar hymn: Give Thanks (With a Grateful Heart) 

Give thanks with a grateful heart 

Give thanks to the Holy One 

Give thanks because He's given Jesus Christ, His Son 

Give thanks with a grateful heart

Give thanks to the Holy One 

Give thanks because He's given Jesus Christ, His Son

And now let the weak say, "I am strong" 

Let the poor say, "I am rich 

Because of what the Lord has done for us" 

And now let the weak say, "I am strong" 

Let the poor say, "I am rich 

Because of what the Lord has done for us" 

Give thanks with a grateful heart  

Give thanks to the Holy One 

Give thanks because He’s given Jesus Christ, His Son 

Give thanks with a grateful heart 

Give thanks to the Holy One (to the Holy One) 

Give thanks because He’s given Jesus Christ, His Son 

And now let the weak say, "I am strong" 

Let the poor say, "I am rich 

Because of what the Lord has done for us" 

And now let the weak say, “I am strong” 

Let the poor say, “I am rich (I am rich) 

Because of what the Lord has done for us” 

Give thanks. 

YouTube Link: https://youtu.be/Bk_7wUR2Wdg?si=dVoNjz6eVGx-Kz3J

Author: Henry Smith © Copyright 1978 by Integrity's Hosanna! Music.

Reflection on Ephesians 2:1-10 by Chris Tan

Bread

Jesus therefore, lifting up his eyes and seeing that a great multitude was coming to him, said to Philip, “Where are we to buy bread, that these may eat?” - John 6:5

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The feeding of the five thousand, beyond its miraculous nature, imparts profound lessons on intentionality, community, faith, and stewardship. This Biblical narrative begins with Jesus' deliberate movement to the Sea of Galilee, teaching us that significant events often require thoughtful preparation and positioning. The large crowd following Him highlights the draw of genuine compassion and the power of community built on trust and shared experiences.

The interactions between Jesus and His disciples—questioning Philip about buying bread and discussing the available resources with Andrew—underscore the importance of recognizing challenges while trusting in divine provision. These moments illustrate how facing difficulties can deepen understanding and foster growth, emphasizing proactive problem-solving and the value of initiating discussions around needs.

The core miracle of multiplying loaves and fish encapsulates the virtues of gratitude and generosity. Jesus' act of giving thanks before distributing the food teaches us that acknowledging our blessings, no matter how small, can lead to abundant provision. This act, coupled with the collection of leftovers, serves as a powerful reminder of mindful stewardship and the importance of valuing our resources, ensuring nothing is wasted.

In essence, the story transcends its religious context to offer timeless insights into living with purpose, fostering community, embracing challenges with faith, and practicing gratitude and stewardship. It encourages us to be intentional in our actions, engage deeply with our communities, trust in the possibility of miracles from our meager offerings, and always act with mindfulness towards our resources. 

This synthesis of lessons from the feeding of the five thousand calls us to reflect on our lives, urging us to cultivate a deeper trust in the unfolding of divine plans and to participate actively in creating a world marked by generosity, compassion, and abundance.

Reflection on John 6: 1-21 by Marlon Bobier Vargas, SVD

Johannes | John

He asked for a writing tablet, and wrote, “His name is John” – Luke 1:63.

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Today's reading, it is a Biblical passage that speaks about the birth of John the Baptist and the song of Zechariah, who is John's father. The main message that we may get from this passage is the several aspects of the Faith and our relationship with God.

One of the key points in this reading is how Elizabeth gives birth to a son. A son that she named John, just as the angel had announced previously. Although Zechariah was surprised upon receiving this news, he was embraced by the Holy Spirit and made a song. A song from which it expresses gratitude to God, for how He accomplished His word for the promises He made to His people. Zechariah also prophesizes how John the Baptist will be playing his part in God's plan.

Fidelity to God and obedience to His will are always rewarded. They always get us nearer to Him and to many blessings. That is the key message of this passage.

Reflection on Luke 1:57-80 by Christobal Alvarez.

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Humilis corde (Mt. 11:29)

In Today’s Gospel, we heard that Jesus expressed his gratitude to the Father. From this expression of gratitude, we understand that if we want to become good disciples of Jesus and real children of God, we should have humility. God does not need a clever person, but God needs a humble person because the humble ones could listen to the Word of God and they could cooperate with God in doing the work that was entrusted to them.

Nowadays, men have the temptation to defeat God and keep God away from their lives. Even, men create their own gods and rely on them. With all machines and tools that are created by them, men think that they can manage everything. And because of that, men become so arrogant before God. But when men believe in their own power, God always shows that He has more power than all men.

We must understand that God will always reveal himself only to those who are humble and faithful. Those who are arrogant and too proud will not find God in their lives. And if we do not have the humility that means that we are not disciples of Jesus and true children of God. Keep in our mind that those who are always grateful and humble before their God and Creator will be saved. Amen, – 

By Fr. Risco Batbual, SVD.