In Memoriam

On top of Mt. Samat in Bataan, looms a large, steel cross measuring 92 meters high. Known as the Shrine of Valor, it is visible even from afar.  It serves as a memorial of the heroic struggle and sacrifices of Filipino and American soldiers who fought and died during the Battle of Bataan in1942. On the two lateral walls of the colonnade is the narrative of the “Battle of Bataan” etched in marble. It ends with the phrase: “Our Mission is to Remember.”

Bataan was the site of the vicious battle against the invading Japanese Imperial Army during World War II. The Filipino and American soldiers retreated to the Bataan Peninsula for a last valiant but futile stand. Sick, starving, exhausted and short in ammunition after three months of fighting, Major General Edward King surrendered to the Japanese on April 9, 1942. This led to the Bataan Death March with about 80,000 soldiers forcibly made to walk 130 km for five days under the heat of the sun, without food or water.

It was my first time to visit its museum underneath and read war stories that recount the courage and bravery of our soldiers. I was touched by their memory whose blood soaked every stone and pavement of the mountain. Pictures of brave war heroes embellish its corridors whose names today are just for history books. I realize they were flesh and blood people whose honors deserve to be enshrined and remembered. In my heart, I felt the tag to tell and re-tell their stories.

We need to recognize our great past. Telling their stories is for connection. Not so much for them but for us and the generation after us. I wonder when our young people hear names such as Leon Kilat, Natalio Bacalso, Florencio Llamas or Tres de Abril? Will it ring a bell in their heart? Maybe they will recognize these names simply as streets of our metropolis. Like many of our heroic stories, they have slipped out of memory. Without this connection with our past, we contribute to their historical poverty. So become a people without a historical sense.

November is a month of remembrance. We are invited to remember our saints and the souls of the faithful departed. The souls of the faithful departed deserve our memory because they are part of our family. Our connection with them does not end in death. We treasure their memory because we love them. We appreciate their legacy because honoring them with flowers and candles express our gratitude. But most of all, our love for them is made concrete through our prayers especially offering the Eucharist for them.

The saints deserve our focus because they are our heroes of the faith. While the souls of the faithful departed are still purified and prepared for eternity, the saints have reached the heavenly Jerusalem. The book of Revelation speaks of a great multitude that no one can count wearing white robes and holding palm branches in their hand. We realize that in our journey of life, we are not alone. So many friends are cheering for us and praying for us. We are always in communion with them.

One of the newest saints we have is the 15-year old martyr Jose Sanchez del Rio. Pope Francis canonized him on October 16, 2016. He joined the Mexican freedom fighters known as the “Cristero” that fought against the Maxist government. Though his mother refused his entry because he was too young, he reasoned: “Mama, do not let me loose the opportunity to gain heaven so easily and so soon.” Captured during a fight, he was imprisoned and tortured brutally. He found strength in praying the rosary daily. In prison, he wrote an emotional letter to his mother declaring that he was ready to fulfill the will of God.

Finally, on the day of his death on February 10, 1928, the soldiers cut the soles of his feet and forced him to walk to the cemetery. They enticed him: “If you shout ‘Death to Christ the King’, we will spare your life. All the more Jose would shout: “Viva Cristo Rey!” When he reached the place of execution, his captors stabbed him with bayonets. Then the commander pulled out his pistol and shot him in the head. As he was dying, he drew a cross in the dirt and kissed it with fervor.”

Stories like this bring out the desire for greatness. Their examples inspire us to be steadfast in the faith. We realize we have a great tradition of holiness. Hence, it is our duty to remember.

                     (Appeared in the Faith Section of Cebu Daily News, November 06, 2016)

Throw-away Culture

Candles burn night and day outside the gate of the Ibona residence. Just a week ago, in broad daylight, brothers Ramonito and Cesario were shot dead right at their home. Until now the perpetrators are still unknown. A 16-year old female victim was part of the collateral damage. Though innocent, she just happened to be in a wrong place and in a wrong time. The killing toll continues to rise. We no longer know whether the operation is legitimate or not. It might just be personal vendetta to stump rivalry.

I feel sad for them because they were my parishioners. According to the Philippine Barangay Population 2015, Punta Princesa - Cebu City has a population of 22,369. Their demise has now lessened my flock by three. I may not have known them personally but they are not just mere statistics. They are more than nameless numbers. They were fathers, brothers or friends; they have families whom they were responsible for. Each was a person with basic goodness at heart. Each of them was loved by God.

These deaths reinforce what Pope Francis has brilliantly defined as the “throw-away mentality.” In this culture of accumulation, we amass so much that we throw-away what we do not really need as excess. As we throw-away food and things, we now throw-away lives. We see them as problems to be avoided and burdens to be eliminated. It takes great love to see them as persons with dignity and worth. Only by love that we see our lives and that of others as gifts.

In today’s pragmatic lifestyle, one name towers above all of us: Mother Teresa of Calcutta. Recently Pope Francis declared her a saint. This means that she was a true follower of Jesus who witnessed to him in her daily life. In fact, she is described as “the icon of mercy.” She spread the love of God radically to the poorest of the poor that even those who have no faith would see compassion concretely in more than words. She was heroic in her sacrifice and self-forgetfulness.

Mother Teresa was a prophetic voice who championed the cause of the least and the last. It all began with an inspiration; seeing Christ in the poor. It seemed a lost advocacy with nothing and no one to help her. But her faith was as great as her dreams. Her heart was big enough to embrace a dying stranger, a malnourished child or an illiterate youngster. She believed in Divine Providence and the basic generosity of people. Amazingly her work caught the imagination of the world. She became an international star. People started to call her a “living saint.” Among the honors she received were the Ramon Magsaysay Peace Prize in 1962 and the prestigious Nobel Peace Prize in 1979.

In 1950, She founded the Missionaries of Charity with over 4,500 Sisters imbued by her spirit of compassion active in 133 countries. Here in Cebu, the Missionaries of Charity run two institutions, “Gasa sa Gugma Home for the Dying Destitutes” is located at Cabantan, Mabolo and an Orphanage right at the very heart of the slum district of Barangay Pasil. The former is a place called home by the aged, dying and abandoned people. The latter is a hospice for the sick and malnourished children. The primary task of the Missionaries of Charity is to love and care for these people nobody of us is prepared to look after.

I remember a testimony by Fr. Julius Sanchez, Rector of Don Bosco Borongan, Eastern Samar. When typhoon Yolanda struck Samar, all communications were cut. There was no way to contact them; they had no electricity and food. Three days later, the Missionaries of Charity arrived with their collaborators in a convoy of three vehicles bringing food and supplies. Though they themselves depend on the charity of others, they go out of their way to be missionaries of compassion for those who are in greater need.

More than ever, we shall need the heart of a Mother Teresa to inspire us to swim against the current of a disposable culture. In this Sunday’s  Gospel (Lk 16:1-13), Jesus teaches us that we become shrewd servants if we use the goods of this world to help others. Such a mentality fosters a culture of communion. For Jesus everyone is included, each one is a gift.  

(This article also appears in CDN Faith Section's Sharing the Word, September 18, 2016)

Discipleship

Scripture Struck

Lk 14:25-33

A lady doctor is fond of letting little kids listen to their heart beat during their check-ups. She would be amused of their different reactions.

But one boy surprised her and kept her reflecting. When he heard his heart being through the stethoscope, he asked: “Is that God knocking in my heart?”

In today’s Gospel, Jesus is knocking in our hearts. He is calling us; inviting us. Even challenging us: “Come, follow me. Be my disciple!”

The first requirement to be disciple is to fall in love with Jesus. This love comes from knowing Him deeply. Such love will make us courageous not only to die for Him; even more to live for Him! 

#scripturestruck

#hagitsapanahon

San Roque

I received an invitation to attend the installation rite of Rev. Fr. Mhal Vincent Balili as the new Parish Priest of the Archdiocesan Shrine of San Roque on August 17. There was Archbishop Jose Palma who presented him to his parishioners along with four other Bishops of Cebu. He caused quite a stir with such a cast of big-time visitors and friends as well. It augurs for better things to come for the people of Mambaling.

It is not surprising since this prelate has been the private secretary first to Ricardo J. Cardinal Vidal and then to Archbishop Palma. Trained in Rome, he was the Chairman of the IEC 2016 Committee on Liturgy. He also holds the post as vice postulator for the cause of beatification of Archbishop Teofilo Camomot.

When he was standing in front of his flock as to be their new pastor, I felt it was a historic moment. Like me, he was also a neophyte caretaker of souls. The heart of the installation rite was the profession of faith of Fr. Mhar. Through it, he pledged to be a firm believer even dedicating the whole of his ministry to be a true teacher and custodian of the faith entrusted to him from the apostles. I was privileged to witness the event since he would now become part of the Sto. Nino Vicariate, our group of neighboring parishes united for the purpose of collaboration and common pastoral action.

Being there, also introduced me to San Roque (also St. Roch or Rocco), the parish patron. I took time to read and learn about his life. Many parishes in Cebu have been dedicated to this saint. In my parish alone, there are five out of forty-eight chapels with San Roque as their protector. He is invoked against plagues and pestilence. Moreover, he is patron of dogs and falsely accused people.

He was actually French, born probably in the 14^th century in Montepelier, France. Some say he was the son of the governor. At one point of his life, he made a pilgrimage to Rome. It was at the height of a plague. Out of compassion for the sick, he decided to stay and offer help.

There are many versions of his death. Some believed that he contracted the dreaded disease and died. Another account says that he was infected but went to the woods alone in order not to give inconvenience to people. A dog would come to supply his food. Eventually he was cured and was able to go home to France. However, upon arriving he was accused as a spy and died in prison.

I find his life still relevant today. First, because he was a man of faith. Such faith moved him to make a pilgrimage. St. Paul reminds us that we are pilgrims; in this world “we walk by faith not by sight” (2 Cor 5:7). In his encyclical “Lumen Fidei,” Pope Francis writes: “faith illumines the whole of our life.. in the daily experiences of life, in the cycle of the season, in the movement of the cosmos.”

Second, San Roque was helpful and compassionate. He cared less if he would be infected. He was more other-looking than obsessed with himself. This trait is strange for some people today. Few years ago, Time Magazine 2013 came out with a front page describing the millennial generation as the “me me me” generation. “They are lazy, entitled narcissists who still live with their parents.” But the article ends with a positive note saying: “they’re earnest and optimistic; pragmatist idealists, tinkerers more than dreamers, life hackers; not into going to church, even though they believe in God because they don’t identify with big institution; informed but not active; they’re financially responsible.” It’s a generation full of potentials and promise. The challenge is to reach out to them and present them with pragmatic ideals they can connect.

Finally, he was courageous in embracing the hard circumstances of life. Though falsely accused, he rose above his hurts and died with nobility. It might have been a case of mistaken identity. Yet he accepted it as “God’s discipline” to make him worthy of heaven. Today, we have a terrible plague, a deadly drug menace affecting the very fiber of our society. We need the inspiration and protection from above to solve this complicated issue. Hence we turn to God, through the intercession of San Roque, to liberate us from this present social plague! 

San Roque, pray for us. 

(This article appears in the Faith Section of Cebu Daily News, August 21, 2016)

Scripture Struck @ Lk 15:1-32

Mercy and Compassion

The story of the prodigal son is the best known and most loved of Jesus' parables. It is the most touching and inspiring. Though told more than 2,000 years ago, it remains relevant and fresh.

It teaches that no one of us is beyond redemption. Mercy is always available in the Father's House. The most amazing character in this tale is the Father. He is most wasteful and extravagant in his loving.

It is the assurance of acceptance and love that moves the son to return. He experienced a spiritual awakening when he saw his real, miserable self. Hunger and extreme poverty made him come to his senses.

This parable continues to speak to us today. Pope Francis declares that the name of God is mercy. But returning to the Father's House is a personal choice. In life we either choose the right or the left. But whichever way we choose, we have a merciful and compassionate God awaiting us with open arms. 😊

‪#‎thinkdeeperduringlent‬
‪#‎scripturestruck‬
‪#‎hagitsapanahon‬
‪#‎randyvouz‬

Scripture Struck @ Mt 20:17-28

Counting the Cost

Jesus and his disciples were journeying from Galilee to Judea. They traveled on foot. The walk was not pleasant and comfortable. The most difficult part is the last lap to reach Jerusalem.

From here on, the journey will be continuously uphill. They will be climbing slowly to arrive towards Zion. This will also be Jesus' worst human experience soon. He will be condemned to carry a heavy cross to Calvary.

This journey is a metaphor of our Christian life. Following Jesus has a cost. It is a call to a deeper sharing in his life. It is a challenge to embrace our cross in daily life.

Today the tendency is to avoid sufferings at any cost. If we can skip pain, the better. But in the process we end up soft and selfish. It is pain that measures the depth of our love because there is no love without enduring. The cost of unconditional love is sacrifice. 

😊

‪#‎thinkdeeperduringlent‬
‪#‎scripturestruck‬
‪#‎hagitsapanahon‬
‪#‎randyvouz‬

Scripture Struck @ Gen. 15:5-18

God Experience

Abraham was a pagan. He used to have many gods until one day God Most High, the creator of heaven and earth, talked to him. From here on he started the tradition of a monotheistic faith.

It was not illusion. God was not only a talking Being. He was also powerful and mighty. No one else is like Him! He was a God who disclosed Himself and His ways to Abraham.

In one low moment of Abraham, God consoled him. When he felt discourage that he could never have a child, God promised him an heir. "Fear not, I am your shield. Your descendants will be as numerous as the stars in the sky."

When things look bad and confusing, think back of Abraham. Think of God's promises to him. Recall his words: I will be with you. They are not mere promises. In Jesus, we have God's promises fulfilled. Jesus is the closest we can ever be with God Almighty! 

😊

‪#‎thinkdeeperduringlent‬
‪#‎scripturestruck‬
‪#‎hagitsapanahon‬
‪#‎randyvouz‬

Scripture Struck @ Mt 5:43-48

Love your Enemies

Jesus was a Jew. Neighbor for them signify their countryman or those who share their faith. The view is restrictive; even elitist. Yet Jesus goes beyond. For him, a neighbor means anyone who needs your love and goodness.

His call to love our enemies is a radical one. It is a foundational Christian thought. If applied in concrete living, it has far-reaching consequences. But if it remains only as a concept, the world stays the same: indifferent and cold.

There is great power in love. Loving only those who love us has already an overwhelming effect. Loving even our enemies can be transformative. It adds greater nobility to our human life.

Today there is so much intolerance, bitterness and hatred among ourselves. This hinders us in living harmonious and peaceful lives. It creates division and conflict that add unnecessary stress. But it is love that raises us from our pettiness. It is love that makes us children of God.

 😊

‪#‎thinkdeeperduringlent‬
‪#‎scripturestruck‬
‪#‎hagitsapanahon‬
‪#‎randyvouz‬

Scripture Struck @ Isaiah 58:1-9

Essence of Fasting

One of the disciplines of Lent is fasting. This practice goes back to the people of Israel. Moses required fasting only on the Day of Atonement. When they were in Exile from their homeland, they fasted also out of grief.

Following the destruction of Jerusalem, every Israelite fasted in the 5th and 7th month annually for 70 years. They mourned for their loss; they lost their homeland and their temple.

But as years dragged on, their fasting became empty. They became more concerned of the ritual observance of the law neglecting ethical demands like sharing bread to the hungry, rescuing the oppressed or defending orphans.

Today fasting can also be empty if done for mere health reasons. The essence of fasting is to seek a deeper relationship with God. Its aim is personal conversion and soul cleansing. It can create a new awareness that more than food, our need for God is greater! 

😊

‪#‎scripturestruck‬
‪#‎hagitsapanahon‬
‪#‎randyvouz‬

Scripture Struck @ Deut. 30:15-20

Choose Life

The book of Deuteronomy gives us a different side of Moses. He was the leader of the Israelites from Egypt to their desert wanderings. While Exodus showed us his quick temper, forty years in the wilderness softened him. Here we see his humility and kindness.

Now Moses is old. After years of witnessing God's closeness and unbounded care, he reminds them that they were about to enter the Promised Land. There is sadness in his voice knowing he would not join them there.

Like a parent, he makes a plea to stay loyal to the Lord. The land they will enter is full of enticements: seduction of other cultures, exotic religions, glittering wealth. But to practice their faith means choosing life and living in prosperity.

Today God continues to remind us to stay loyal to our faith. The world seduces us with so many "idols" that mesmerize our eyes and our heart. Yet let us be brave by following the way that leads to Life! 

😊

‪#‎scripturestruck‬
‪#‎hagitsapanahon‬
‪#‎randyvouz‬

Scripture Struck @ 1 Kings 8:22-30

Solomon's Temple

David was once inspired to build a House for the Lord. He saw how comfortable he was in his residence while God's Ark was simply in a tent.

The Ark of the Covenant was a tangible symbol of God's abiding presence. It was a golden box that contained the 10 Commandment Tablets given by God to Moses. With its handle, the priests were charged of carrying it allowing God to journey with the Israelite Community in their wanderings.

Yet it was Solomon's task to construct the Temple because David's hands were too violent from the wars he waged. After careful planning and years of building, now he comes to consecrate the new Temple for God's purpose. Its beauty and majesty made it one of the wonders in the ancient world.

Today, God's Temple is the Church. Here God is honored and loved. It houses the tabernacle of Jesus' Eucharistic presence. More than a structure, God's Temple is the heart of every baptized man and woman. In every believing heart God is felt and worshiped in spirit and in truth.

 😊

‪#‎scripturestruck‬
‪#‎hagitsapanahon‬
‪#‎randyvouz‬

Scripture Struck @ Isaiah 6:1-8

Send Me

God chose Isaiah to be His prophet. A prophet is one who speaks for God. His words are God's words. He becomes God's mouthpiece; His representative.

When God appeared, he saw Him seated on a high throne. He was in full control. Everything about Him was glorious and majestic. Isaiah experienced the immensity of God.

In contrast, he saw himself so small and frail. Compared to God's grandeur and glory, he was mere dust and dirt. He needed cleansing to stand before God. Yet when God was looking for a messenger, he was empowered to say: Here I am. Send me!

Today, we see ourselves big and tall. We fail to see God's grandeur on his throne. We think we are in control. It is grace that allows us to see our real worth. Though small, we are loved. His love makes us dare to say: Send me Lord!

‪#‎scripturestruck‬
‪#‎hagitsapanahon‬
‪#‎randyvouz‬

Scripture Struck @ 1Kings 3:4-13

Understanding Heart

David was succeeded by his son Solomon as king. His were shoes too big to fill. The new king was young and inexperienced. With kingship comes great responsibility.

In his great need Solomon sought the Lord. He prayed to the God of his ancestors. To Him he asked for wisdom. In his humility he beg the Lord to grant him an understanding heart.

This greatly pleased God. In answer to his prayer Solomon was granted an extraordinary gift to discern right from wrong.

Today we need to be wise: to always have the sense of wonder; gain insights and new paradigm; be sensitive to the needs of people and trends in society; capacity to easily understand and grasp every situation. Lord, grant us wisdom! 😊

‪#‎scripturestruck‬
‪#‎hagitsapanahon‬
‪#‎randyvouz‬

Scripture Struck @ 1Kings 2:1-12

David's Legacy

The colorful days of King David finally came to an end. It was a glorious conclusion of a great life. He served the Lord well.

David had a bigger-than-life personality. He was a supremely gifted individual. But his greatness did not come from his talents. His greatness came from the goodness of his heart and his faithfulness to the Lord until the end.

He left two beautiful legacies to his son: his faith and his good name. He handed down to Solomon his unshakable faith. His good name became the basis of his uninterrupted dynasty.

Our lifetime is short. The memory we leave behind depends on the contribution the we give. The legacy of faith and goodness are, most often, those that remain. 😊

‪#‎scripturestruck‬
‪#‎hagitsapanahon‬
‪#‎randyvouz‬

Scripture Struck @ 2 Sam 16:5-13

David's Misery

Life is like a wheel. We are familiar with the reality of Gulong ng Palad. Sometimes you're up; sometimes you're down. Life changes like the weather.

David had his glory days. There were times when he was basking with success. All lights were turned on him. He was the center of pomp and praises.

But times change. His favorite son usurped his power. His loyal soldiers turned traitors. Now he is a fugitive in a kingdom he built. He is in fear for his life.

Times of crisis are times of testing. In fire, gold is tested. Here David's faith shines. His greatness is manifested. When insulted, he takes no offense; when humiliated he forgives. The real mark of greatness is bearing the miseries of life with faith and courage! 😊

‪#‎scripturestruck‬
‪#‎hagitsapanahon‬
‪#‎randyvouz‬

Scripture Struck @ Mk 2:23-28

Love over Law

Sabbath Rest was significant for the Jews. It required them to cease from all manual labor. It was meant to focus on God's goodness and his work of redemption.

It was a remembrance of what God did to them. He liberated them from Egyptian slavery. Now they were to use their gift of freedom to honor him. Sabbath rest was a sacred day of worship.

The idea of the Sabbath was also meant to give dignity to the human person. It affirmed that man is more than a machine. Rest allowed him time for higher pursuits.

There is always the danger that our rituals precede over relationships or the commandment over compassion. Jesus reminds us that respecting the dignity of the human person is the highest rule. Love must lead over the law!😊

‪#‎scripturestruck‬
‪#‎hagitsapanahon‬
‪#‎randyvouz‬

Scripture Struck @ Lk 2:41-52

Jesus Grew in Spirit

The Father sent his divine Son as a Holy Child, as the Santo Nino. He was the Promised-fulfilled; the presence of God in our midst. He is God personified.

But he was not alone to fend for himself. Jesus had to learn how to be human. He grew up in a simple yet faith-filled family. Joseph gave it stability and security, while Mary immersed him in the stories and traditions of his people.

The family atmosphere of Nazareth was nourishing. His parents nurtured both Jesus' mind and spirit. As his mind grew wiser, his capacity for spiritual experience deepened. He found strong connections with his heavenly Father both at home and in the Temple.

Our experience of God will set the tenor of our life. It will greatly define our lifestyle. Pope Francis affirmed: 'take care of your spiritual life, your relationship with God, because this is the backbone of everything we do and everything we are.' 😊

Viva Pit Senyor! Prititit!

‪#‎scripturestruck‬
‪#‎hagitsapanahon‬
‪#‎randyvouz‬

Scripture Struck @ Mk 2:13-17

Concerns of Jesus

When Jesus began his Public Ministry he led an out-going lifestyle. He became a public figure. He went everywhere to meet people where they are found.

He focused his time on relating with others. He was often on the road. This young Rabbi was chacterized by his self-giving. He had a welcoming heart.

Moreover, he was willing to give people new chances. He saw them as a "work-in-progress." He brought out their best potentials by not labeling them. Jesus' concern was to show that God truly cares; He was not their rival.

Life can be more fulfilling if we form deeper and better relationships. Life can be more satisfying if we can be more welcoming and open. Life can be more exciting if we decide to see others as co-pilgrims rather than competitors. Just like Jesus! 

Pit Senyor everyone! Prititit!!

‪#‎scripturestruck‬
‪#‎hagitsapanahon‬
‪#‎randyvouz‬

Scripture Struck @ Mk 2:1-12

Forgiveness Heals

People were coming to Jesus because he had healing powers. But when four friends brought him a paralytic, they were unprepared to witness the unexpected. Jesus forgave the man before freeing him from paralysis.

The scribes were scandalized. They quickly condemned him. God alone can dispense mercy. Forgiveness was beyond the capacity of Jesus. Such were their thoughts.

Yet Jesus showed them he was more than who they think he is. Mercy was his birthright. By this act of forgiveness he did not only prove his authority. Jesus is the very face of the Father's mercy.

Life can be so stressful. We experience negative emotions like anger, hatred, bitterness or anxiety stemming from neglectful parents, unfaithful spouse or rude neighbors. But forgiveness raises us to higher grounds. It heals us from small-mindedness. Mercy adds nobility and dignity to our life. 😊

‪#‎scripturestruck‬
‪#‎hagitsapanahon‬
‪#‎randyvouz‬

Scripture Struck @ Mk 1:29-39

Hectic Day

Jesus lived a busy life. It was all work. Action from sunrise to sunset. Mission from dawn to dusk. There was so much to do. But so little time to accomplish them.

Yet Jesus did not live to work. He lived to give glory to God. Whether he was healing or teaching or praying, his life was a constant offering to his Father.

His life was a prayer. It was a life lived in the presence of God. For Jesus, there was never a moment his Father was not looking. Every minute was a union of closeness and intention.

Despite our hectic life we have to pause and pray. This need is not only physical but existential. Our prayer defines our life. It gives our day more depth and dimension. It gives our work worth and and meaning. 😊

‪#‎scripturestruck‬
‪#‎hagitsapanahon‬
‪#‎randyvouz‬

Scripture Struck @ Mk 1:21-28

The Teaching of Jesus

By profession Jesus was a carpenter. He learned the trade from Joseph. As a boy he was trained to master the skill for a living. He was a carpenter's son.

But Jesus decided to teach. More than a career, it was his real calling. He wanted to teach people how to live. He had no previous experience or training. Who he is, was sufficient credential. Jesus was the Apostle of the Father.

His words carried full authority. Words were enough to effect what he wanted. Jesus healed. Jesus preached. Jesus was a man of power and wisdom. Even demons trembled.

Yet when it comes to the human heart, Jesus has to knock. Patiently. Continually. He has no authority over me unless I willingly submit. Faith is that willingness to surrender. It is love that disposes us to obey! 

😊

‪#‎scripturestruck‬
‪#‎hagitsapanahon‬
‪#‎randyvouz‬

Scripture Struck @ Mk 1:14-20

Kingdom of God

Jesus' baptism was a moment of decision. He was convinced that the time has come. He closed down his carpentry shop to start a new life.

From this point on he would be an itinerant preacher. The Holy Spirit empowered him to do amazing and extraordinary things. He would become the Rabbi from Nazareth.

The aim of his three-year teaching was to build the kingdom of God. It was a spiritual kingdom growing imperceptively but begins by accepting Jesus as Lord.

It is a kingdom characterized by unlimited love, absolute loyalty to God and living a hope-filled existence. The kingdom of God is a transformative force that changes the world from within. But this change must start from you and me! 

😊

‪#‎scripturestruck‬
‪#‎hagitsapanahon‬
‪#‎randyvouz‬