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

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

Scripture Struck @ Lk 5:12-16

Act of Kindness

Jesus met an undesirable leper on the road. The man was at the end of his road. Leprosy has driven him to despair. Hope had totally vanished from his life.

Family and friends have forsaken him. His very name had been stripped from memory. Rejection hurt. Loneliness constantly ached. Having no one else in his life is most cruel.

Then Jesus comes to the picture. He becomes the sun that brightened up his life. He is the rain that gave fragrance and freshness. A presence that provided new meaning and dimension to his day.

Jesus' touch transformed him. He becomes a new creation. He rediscovers that God makes all things beautiful inside and out. Kindness is a language God speaks best! 😊

‪#‎scripturestruck‬
‪#‎hagitsapanahon‬
‪#‎randyvouz‬