God in the Entertainment Industry

With one of the Best and Multi-Awarded Film Directors
in the Philippines, Direk Brillante ma. Mendoza.
Photo taken after the Holy Mass offered for the success
of his upcoming movie about the sufferings and hopes
of Super Typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan).

"In everything you do, put God first, and he will direct you and crown your efforts with success." -Proverbs 3:6 (TLB)

I was invited to presided over the Holy Mass being offered for the success of the movie to be filmed by one of the best and multi-awarded film directors in the Philippines, Director Brillante Ma. Mendoza. The film is about the sufferings and hopes of the victims of Super Typhoon Haiyan (Yolanda, local name).

I learned that each time this director will film a movie and after the filming he usually gathers all his staff and the casts for a Holy Mass. Before the filming to ask for God's blessings and guidance and after as a thanksgiving for the graces.

I was touched by his acts. I was touched by his faith.

During the homily, I congratulated him and his staff, the members of his crew and all the cast-artists for putting God first in all they do. I also asked them to continue making films that will enlighten viewers about the reality of life.

With one of the cast-artists, the young actor
Martin del Rosario, after our short chat just
right after the Holy Mass.

I reminded them that they have a bigger role in  forming the conscience and the lifestyle of the society especially the young people who look up at each of them. They happily accepted my challenge and promise to continue invoking God and His guidance.

One of the cast-artists, Martin del Rosario was also present and talked to me and thanked me for the reminder. He said he was happy to see young priests encouraging artists to be God-loving and God-fearing personalities.

I hope and pray, they continue to inspire many by the films they are producing. I hope and pray, they continue to do everything in line with the principle of God.

People in the Entertainment industry has hope!

Prayer:
Lord, bless these people and use them to bring many closer to you. Amen.

Workers of Mercy

The Council of Elders of the Eucharistic Disciples of the Divine Mercy.

"For just as the body without the spirit is dead, so also faith without works is dead." -James 2:26 (NASB)

This page is dedicated to the people whose time, talent and treasures are being offered for the service of the poor, the needy and the neglected.

The Eucharistic Disciples of the Divine Mercy proclaiming God's mercy and Compassion through concrete works of mercy rooted in love. I salute and thanks these wonderful people. 

Sis. Ma. Tita Bauca, Sis. Emerita Alfaro, Sis. Rosario Lo, Sis.Nenita Santiago, Sis. Caroliina Benavidez and Bro. Macario Umali are people true to their calling as Disciples of Mercy.

God bless you and all your works! Thanks, too, to your families' generosity of letting you do your mission. God bless them, too!

Prayer:

Lord, thank you for calling these modern-day disciples to proclaim your love and mercy to all. Bless them with good health and in abundance. Bless, too, their families. Amen.

The Best Speech Ever

Photo Credit: TLF Media and Arts Ministry

"Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you." -Jeremiah 29:12 (NIV)


I remember when I was still a student, we were always asked to write speeches and asked us to deliver them in the class or with other invited visitors. Also, I always join speech contests. Both in contest and in gatherings where we asked to give a speech, there will always be people who are not pleased with our words, grammar of the way we deliver them.

But I discovered a kind of speech that the listener will always listen.

The best speech we could ever deliver in our lifetime is PRAYER! No mistakes, no corrections the way we deliver and it will always be listened to and accepted as long as it is sincere and comes from the heart.

Try Prayer! It works!


Prayer:

Lord, thank you for listening to me. Amen.

Birthday Learning

Photo Credit: TLF Media and Arts Ministry

"Listen, ...accept what I say, and the years of your life will be many." -Proverbs 4:10 (NIV)

I celebrated my 33rd Birthday on August 21, 2014 with a very personal retreat. An intimate day with the Lord. I decided to do it this year as I recognized my need of going back to my experiences with Jesus and looking forward to what the good Lord still want me to do.

In one of the the prayer and reflection moments I had on that day, I realized one thing:

As I grow old, the golden years of my life may not come back but the good relations and memories will stay in our hearts forever.

I should always praise God for the past. I must always be thankful to Him for the present and I shall trust the Lord for the future.

Simple lessons that I should live for!

Prayer:
Lord, thank you for the gift of life. Amen. 

Be Better Than Me

Giving Talk to hundreds of young people. Photo credit: TLF Media&Arts

"Strive for peace with everyone, and for the holiness without which no one will see the Lord." -Hebrews 12:14 (ESV)

In one of the many youth gatherings that I have been invited to give talks, as usual after the event, a somehow meet and greet happened. Many young people are approaching me for photo ops and for pray over. Some thanking me while some just wanted to ask for blessings.

One young fellow as he approached me and full of excitement he said; "Father, you're my idol. I want to be like you!"

I smiled, then soflty told him: "Please be better than me."

Prayer:

Lord, I want to give back to You all the praises and glory. I am nothing without you. May we all strive to be better people, better Christians. Amen.

Praying At The Cab

The hanged plastic-laminated poster of
the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus just
at the back of the driver's seat.

"Lord, teach us to pray..." -Luke 11:1

One day as I took a cab (taxi), for the first time I took the back seat and I was surprised with what I have seen. A plastic-laminated poster of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus with prayer in it is hanging at the back of the driver's seat. The picture with prayer just in front of me or of any passenger taking it. I was so happy to see that. I prayed the prayer, then thank the driver whom I forgot to ask the name.

In another instance, as I took the back seat of a taxi, I saw a prayer hanged also just at the back off it's front seat A Traveler's prayer. As I prayed it, my fear vanished and feel good and safe as we travel. The prayer reminded me to entrust everything to God.

I just thought that these taxis and their owners and drivers are agents of Evangelization. They are reminding us that there is indeed God. Just pray and we will experience His mighty power.

Prayer: 
Lord, thank you very much for using places, people, things and even situations to remind us of your loving presence. Amen.

The Traveler's Prayer in one of the Taxis
I was very fortunate to take in one of my
travels.

The Power Of Christ

"Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made." -John 1:3 (NIV)

I read from somewhere the following about the power of Christ:

Cleansing power.
Healing power.
Restoring power.
Identifying power.
Strengthening power.
Transforming power.

Christ is powerful. Come to Him and experience His power in your life!

Prayer:
Lord, let me experience your power in my life. I come to you in the silence of my heart. Amen.

Michael B. Avelino: Model of Honesty

Mr. Michael B. Avelino, the Honest Taxi (Cab) Driver

"For we aim at what is honorable not only in the Lord's sight but also in the sight of man." -2 Corinthians 8:21 (ESV)

August 8, 2014. I was waiting for a cab along North EDSA for some 30 minutes. I prayed to the Lord to send me a ride for I was trying to bit my time, when suddenly a cab came.

When I was inside it, I noticed the photo frame displayed just infront of me. Recognizing Mr. Tulfo, a Radio Anchor of Wanted sa Radyo Program, I asked the driver if it was he who was with Mr. Tulfo and his co-anchor.Indeed, it was he. He was an awardee of the GAWAD KATAPATAN given by the Radio Program to Taxi Drivers returning valuable things left behind by their passengers.I congratulated him and told him that I am honored that my driver is a man of honesty and honor.

The framed photo of Mr. Avelino inside his cab.

Then he started telling me stories of things he returned to the passengers. One will see in the face of Mr. Avelino sincerity and honesty. Mr. Aveino is indeed worthy of emulation not just by cab drivers but by everyone. We should aim to be honorable not only in the sight of God but even of men.

It was indeed an honor to me to meet this guy, a 23 year old honest Cab driver. Kudos to Mr. Avelino.Let us imitate him. If everyone becomes honest. God will bless us and our nation!

Prayer:
Lord, I ask you t bless Mr. Michael B. Avelino 
and his family with your grace and blessings.
Make us all live in honesty in your sight and in the
sight of our brothers and sisters. Amen.

The medal of Mr. Avelino hanged in his cab together with a Rosary

Freeman: A Reminder from God

Mark Anthony reading the Bible while waiting
for our departure from Hong Kong

"What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?" -Romans 8:31 (NIV)

August 4, 2014. Mark Anthony Tayo known to the FB world as Freeman. As he usually do, he fetched me from the Lord's Flock Heritage Building after I gave lecture to the members of the Mother Household of the Community.

By the way, Mark Anthony is my Pare Ko. He usually accompanies me in some of my missions. He is also an Ambassador of Goodwill of a certain foundation doing outreach programs among the poor children and public schools in provinces.

We go back to my story. After he fetched me from the Heritage Building of the Lord's Flock Community, he took me for dinner and brought me home. While in the car, I shared with him some fears. He is one of the few people whom I trusted with some of the events in my life. I shared to him my thoughts on something.

With that conversation with him. He once again reminded me of a very simple Biblical Principle which somehow I have forgotten because I was to engrossed with the situation. He told me "Huwag kang matakot! Walang bibitiw. Mahaba ppa at marami pa..." (Do not be afraid! No one will let go. It still a long journey and there will still be more...")

I was reminded of the things he always is telling me or texting me whenever I feel some discomforts with situations; "Hindi tayo matitinag basta kasama natin si Lord" or "Hindi tayo matitinag kasi kasama natin si Papa Lord!""Hindi tayo mapaghihiwalay sa pagmamahal ni Papa Lord"

What a wonderful reminder that nothing can separate us from the love of God. And indeed it's true that "If God is with us, who can be against us!"

This simple guy taught me great spirituality. This simple guy doesn't know is teaching me to trust more on God. To have more faith in Him.

Pare Ko Freeman Mark Anthony Tayo, you just don't know that with those little conversations you are teaching me more. You are indeed a reminder of God to me.

Thank you for that!

God is indeed using people around us, He is indeed using those moments to let His presence, His love be felt by us.

Prayer:

Lord, thank you for giving me Freeman, to remind me to trust your love. To trust only you. To fear not because you are with me. You are with us. Bless Freeman with good health and more wisdom. Guide him and grant him his heart's deepest desire. Amen. 

The Love of God Is...

"...God is love." -1 John 4:8 (NIV)

I just realized when I was alone in my room and praying. The Love of God:

is the VOICE when we do not know what to say.

is our STRENGTH when we are tired.

is our HOPE when we are discouraged.

and our JOY when we are sad and in sorrow.

Just feel the love of God and we will be secured. Wow! God Himself really is love!

Prayer:

Lord, thank you for loving me. I want to love you more. Amen.

Are We Holy?

"He has saved us and called us to a holy life..." -2 Timothy 1:9 (NIV)

A preacher was searching for a solution to his Sunday problem which was that half of his congregation left during his sermon. Then he hit on this idea.

One Sunday, he started his sermon saying:
"Dear sisters and brothers, my sermon will be divided into two parts, first for holy people and second for sinners."

Then he requested those who believe themselves as sinners to leave. Nobody left. All stayed for the whole sermon.

Prayer:
Lord, we are sorry for our sins. Lead us to a life pleasing to you. Amen.

Inspired by The Pangasinan Auto Enthusiasts

The members of Pangasinan Auto Enthusiasts.

"But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well." -Matthew 6:33 (NIV)

I was invited by the members of the Pangasinan Auto Enthusiasts to join them during their second meet and greet event after they were organized. The Organization was organized to unite all auto groups in the whole of Pangasinan Province.

When I arrived at their meeting place, I was quite hesitant to join the group. An all-men group thinking who will listen to me from among them. But my adopted brother Allan introduced me to them. They were so warm and hospitable.

The members a they listened to my short message.

They were happy in welcoming me to the gatherings All of them shook my hand and smiled at me.  

What inspired me most, when I started praying over them and blessing them, they really showed respect to God. They put God first in their foundation, they put God first in their activities..

I see hope. As long as there are men acknowledging their need of God, we will have families that are connected to God! Families that will become beacon of light and that will become inspiration to many. As long as there are auto enthusiasts that respect and love God above all our hi-ways will be safe!

Prayer:

While blessing the members.

Lord, bless these Auto Enthusiasts, may many be inspired by them and through them. Keep them safe always. Amen.                                                                                                                                        

Sacramentals Are Not Charms

The Virgin of Manaoag in Pngasinan, Philippines

"Get these things out of here. Stop turning my Father's house into a marketplace!" -John 2:16 (NLT)

Last July 19, 2014 I went to Pangasinan with justa friend with me. We paid a visit to Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary of Manaoag. Since we were not rushing, I was able to go around the vicinity. I have nothing against those selling foods outside the the Church compound. Actually I bought a lot of "puto kutchinta", "kornik", and "tupig". But what called my attention when some vendors of I thought religious articles approached us and selling us small images. I am about to buy because I wanted to give some friends back in Manila pocket image of Our Lady. But seeing those packs of images with inscription "LUCKY CHARMS" I told them I do not believe in Lucky Charms.

Each pack contains miniature images of the Holy Family with Inscription for "For Good Family Relationships", an image of Our Lady of Manaoag  with "For Safe Travel", a Benedictine Cross with an inscription "For Successful Business" and another small image which I wasn't able to recognize with an inscription "For Successful Lovelife".

As I have said, I have nothing against those vendors but I am very much against those sacramentals treated as luck charms.This is very much rampant not just within the vicinity of Manaoag, but also so some other Chruches. I hope we priests can do something about this. I pray that informed and evangelized lay workers and leaders of these churches can do something. We catholics are being accused by other religions to be so supertitious and we are if we will never stop this. They can sell sacramentals, or religious articles, why not? But please do not treat them as charms or amulets.

While offering and lighting some candles in honor
of Our Lady of Manaoag.

For everyones information; Our crucifix, icons and other articles are examples of what we call sacramentals. According to the Catechism of the Catholic Church, sacramentals are sacred signs instituted by the Church to prepare us to receive the fruit of the sacraments and to sanctify different circumstances of our lives (no. 1677).

I hope that all of us Catholics be informed and evangelized with the truth. We treat Holy Articles as Holy and not as charms or amulets.

Prayer:
Lord, forgive us our trespasses. Help to remain in your truth. Keep us Holy. Amen.

The Grass

Beautiful morning dew on the very green grass.

"Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” -Joshua 1:9 (NIV)

I remember when I was the rector of the seminarians, we usually have the afternoon manualia (we work together to clean the seminary and its grounds). Even I was the formator, I see to it that I joined the seminarians in most of their activities even with cleaning. I was once assigned to cut the grass and burned them. While doing the assigned work, It just came into my mind something.

The grass I was cutting taught me something:

God wants us to live like grass. Even if it's stepped on, crushed, burned and cut, it always persists and grows back even greener.

In life, we sometimes feel that we are stepped on because of trials and persecutions and even of false accusations. Just be like the grass. Go back to life and be stronger. Be back to life and trust the Lord who knows the truth! Who knows everything about you!

Prayer:

Lord, thank you for those moments that I feel you loving embrace in the midst of all those trials. Make me strong, O Lord. Amen.

In Life...

With the group of young people finding joy in giving their time, talent and
even their limited treasures for the greater glory of God by serving as
young missionaries. They are the members of the New Generation, a youth
group of The Lord's Flock Catholic Charismatic Community.

"Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect." -Romans 12:2 (ESV)


In my life experiences, with all the places that I have been and with many people that I met. I knew I will still have many places to go, people to meet and experiences to have. But I can say that somehow those taught me something:

That it's by LOVE that we SACRIFICE and SERVE.

It's by PATIENCE that we UNDERSTAND and FORGIVE.

It's by TRIALS that we become STRONG and GAIN WISDOM.

And, it's only by SHARING that we BECOME BLESSINGS to others.

Get it? I hope you catch me!!!


Prayer:
Lord, Thank you. Help me to love, to be patient, to be strong and be able to share. Amen.

True Friends

Friends from UPSIV and EDDMI together.

"The godly give good advice to their friends; the wicked lead them astray." 
                                                                                             -Proverbs 12:26 (NLT)

In my life I experienced having many trials. I cried most of the times.But one thing I realized:

TRUE FRIENDS cry when you leave. FAKE FRIENDS leave when you cry.

Yes in those moments, I lost many whom I thought were my friends. But I found some who very true to me.

In your life, in your relationship with people, what kind of friend are you?

Prayer:

Lord, thank you for the gift of true friendship. Make me one to others. Amen.

Consumed to Be Holy

The young men and women gathered to be consumed by Fire of God's love.

"Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it." -Proverbs 22:6 (ESV)

My first time to join the team of young men and women volunteers from The Lord's Flock Catholic Charismatic Community in their Singles and Youth Faith on Fire Conferences in Davao and in Metro Manila. I saw in these young people their willingness to be used by God for His greater glory despite their limitations and their age.

For many of them, just to be able to join the team of volunteers to Davao, they sold their shoes, some were selling goodies and others just for them to raise some amount for the airfare and allowance while in Davao. 

I am inspired by these young workers, going out of their comfort zones, sacrificing things just to be able to work for the Lord. I am convinced that, as long as there are young people like them, there is hope for the Church. There is hope for humanity.

May I ask parents to support the good cause of their children. Teach them to be holy as our Father in heaven is holy.

May I as a priest continue to inspire them by my own witnessing and by my willingness to be used by God, to be sent by God even to paces where my comfort will be sacrificed. For God's greater glory!

Prayer:

Lord, thank you for these young people. Thank you for inspiring me through them. Continue to bless them. Amen.

Christmas in June

Turbo Jet stationed at Macao Ferry Terminal which brought me to Hong Kong.

"...and they will call him Immanuel, which means 'God is with us.'" -Matthew 1:23

I was travelling from Macao to Hong Kong on June 6, 2014 to attend the Pentecost Sunday Celebration organized by the Service Committee of the Diocese of Hong Kong on Charismatic, Renewal and Covenanted Communities. While filling up my departure card, I heard music being played. They were Christmas songs such as "Joy to the World" and "Noel". I asked Mark Tayo, my companion if it is really being played by the Ferry personnel or maybe one of the travelers who was just playing it through his mobile gadgets. He confirmed, it was being played from the Ferry and not from someone's gadgets.

I stopped for a moment, then I smiled at my realization. It was a wonderful reminder to me that Christmas must always be celebrated. Christmas is not just a specific season of the year. Christmas is forever! Everyday must be a Christmas day!

I am reminded to live the spirit of Christmas. The spirit of Christ's birth. He is the Immanuel, through me may God be felt always. His presence must be manifested in the way I deal, talk and be with people.

If God will be felt through us, if God can be with us through our words and actions, indeed, every day is Christmas day!


Prayer:
Lord, thank you for reminding us that loving and giving must be done at all times. Thank you for your presence. May people feel your love and mercy through me. Amen.

Faith Unlocks The Door

"Have faith in God." -Matthew 11:22

A story was told about a little girl who was talking to her teacher about whales. The teacher said it was physically impossible for a whale to swallow a human because even though it was a very large mammal its throat was very small.

The little girl stated that Jonah was swallowed by a whale.

Irritated, the teacher reiterated that a whale could not swallow a human; "It was physically impossible!" she exclaimed once more.

The little girl said, "When I get to heaven I will ask Jonah."

The teacher asked, "What if Jonah went to hell?"

"Then, you ask him ma'am." The child replied.

We can learn from the little girl, faith unlocks the door of heaven!

Prayer:
Lord, forgive us as we doubts your works. The possibility of everything in you. Grant us the faith now and forever. Amen.

School Bag

"Do to others as you would have them do to you." -Luke 6:31

I was told of a story which goes like this:

A Plane was about to crash in; there were 5 passengers on board, but only 4 parachutes.
The first passenger said, "I am President of this country, the chosen one. This country needs me, I can't afford to die." So he took the first parachute and left the plane.
The second passenger, said, "I will be the next president of this country, so people for sure don't want me to die." He took the second parachute and jumped out of the plane.
The third passenger, said, "I'm the Secretary of Social Welfare Department, a lot of people depend on me." So she grabbed the parachute next to her and jumped.
The fourth passenger, a good-hearted man, a former politician who really served well with honesty, said to the fifth passenger, a 10-year-old Boy, "I have lived a full life, and served my country the best I could. I will sacrifice my life and let you have the last parachute."
The Boy said, "That's okay, Sir. There's a parachute left for you. The President grabbed my SCHOOL BAG."

Doing good is making the greatest sacrifice for others to live!

Prayer:

Lord, thank you for giving us life by making the greatest sacrifice of all, the giving of your life on the Cross. Amen.

Macau, Hope For China and All The World

Ruins of St. Paul

"You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden." -Matthew 5:14 (ESV)

As I am in Macau for another visit and as I usually do, as I pray for Macau and for all those who live here I was so engrossed and saw a vision that one day, Macau will shine. Yes, she will shine as a light for the whole of China that will bring the light to all nations.

Macau is a city set on a hill. Macau becomes the seat of all missionary efforts for the whole of China. This is the entry point for missionaries who wanted to enter China and evangelize. Many convertions will happen in China, the Gospel will be brought to the Mainland China. Then China will be converted and it will be powerful not in ammunitions but in witnessing to the beauty of the Gospel. To the beauty of living in accordance with the principle and righteousness of God.

Filipinos working in Macau will witness to the faith. Many Chinese in Macau will become Missionaries (mostly members of the laity) to their own beloved Chinese land. We thank the Portuguese Missionaries and people for planting the seed of faith in this wonderful City.

The Flag of Macao

Many young people from this City will be called to be in love with the Christ and His Church that will bring witness to their new-found friendship with Him.

The Missionaries, the Religious based in Macau will be working much for it, but their labor will never be wasted.

I continue to pray for the fulfillment of this prophesy. In the name of the Risen Lord and with the witnessing of all who have found and experience His power in their lives. Macau will be converted and from here the whole of China and the world!


Prayer:
Lord Jesus, I continue to lift up to you this City, bless her and her wonderful people. Bless the efforts of your Church with her missionaries. Bless the labor of Bishop Jose Lai Hung-seng and his clergy. Bless our Filipino Workers here that they may be witnesses to their faith. Bless all those who have experienced the power of your resurrection that they may be empowered by the Holy Spirit to stand frim for the faith. Bless Oh, Lord the whole Chinese Nation. Oh, Mary, Help of Christians, pray for us. Saint Joseph, protector of the Church, be with us. Amen and Amen!

Giovanni Rubeo: Standing Firm for The Faith

Young Giovanni Rubeo holdinghis Bible. Photo from Google Search.

"Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong."
                                                                                  -1 Corinthians 16:13

The story of a young boy, a fifth grader at Park Lakes Elementary School in Laurendale Lakes, South Florida was so inspiring.

The young Giovanni Rubeo stood up for his faith when on April 8, 2014 while reading his Bible during the free time in School was asked by his teacher not to read it and asked to put it away from his desk. The teacher said that it was not allowed in the school as it is opposed to the curriculum for public schools. But young Giovanni refused. He stood up for his faith, for the word of God, for Jesus Christ.

Today, we need as many as Giovanni that even at a tender age never ashamed of his faith. Ready to fight for his religious rights.

Prayer: 
Lord, bless your people. Be with Giovanni. May many young people and even us who were once young be able to stand up for our faith in you. Amen.

What Is Christianity?

Christianity is not limited inside the Church.

"Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ." -Philippians 1:27

I read of an article somewhere in my researches. I forgot also the author. But I can't stop myself in sharing with you the article which is worthy of our reflections. This was the answer to my prayer when I asked God one time "What is Christianity? How can I be a Christian at all times?"

In home it is kindness,

in business it is honesty,

and in society it is courtesy.

Toward the unfortunate it is compassion,

toward the weak it is help,

toward the wicked it is resistance,

toward the strong it is trust,

toward the fortunate it is congratulations,

toward the penitent it is forgiveness, 

and toward God it is reverence and love.

Prayer:

Lord help me live my Christianity at all times, anywhere. Amen.

The Four R's in Prayers

 "The LORD is near to all them that call on him." -Psalms 145:18

Sharing with you the four R's in prayers. They are Recognition, Request, Reconciliation and Reliance.

When we pray, Recognize that everything comes from the Lord. We Request all we need in this life. We Reconcile everything with God, especially when we fail or fall. And we Rely on God's power and providence.

Remember this! 

Prayer:

Lord, let me always recognize your loving presence in prayer. Amen.

The Experience of You

Spending quality time with family is a great experience of you.

"Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord." -Ephesians 6:4 (NIV)

In one of the Lenten Recollections I gave, I will never forget a father who shared his realizations. He is a businessman. He narrated that he worked for almost 18 hours everyday. He even bring home his works at home.

Because of so many workloads, he lost communications and rapport with his own family. He went to bed with his wife sleeping already. He do not have time to play with his children. 

He said that he did all those because he just wanted to buy everything for his family. The luxurious things in life he wanted to offer them. "I have always dreamed of giving them anything that the money can buy." He said.

He added, "I got so involved in so many works that I forgot about one essential thing they wanted most. It was me, it was a father who was always there when they needed me most, to experience my love and support."

To all of us and to all parents, most of the time yes, we are working for our families. For them to have everything, but we also need to be reminded that spending quality time with them is a great experience of you whom they wanted most. Our presence, our love, the playing of games, the stories to tell are the things they needed most.

Prayer:

Lord, help us and be with us always. May we continue to fill the need of us of our loved ones. Amen.

The Burning Ember

The Blazing Embers

"For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I among them.” 

                                                                                      -Matthew 18:20 (ESV)

I heard of a story shared by our Retreat Master in one of the retreats that I attended. 

A member of a certain church, who previously had been attending services regularly, stopped going. After a few weeks, the pastor decided to visit him. It was a chilly evening. The pastor found the man at home alone, sitting before a blazing fire.

Guessing the reason for his pastor’s visit, the man welcomed him, led him to a comfortable chair near the fireplace and waited. The pastor made himself at home but said nothing. In the grave silence, he contemplated the dance of the flames around the burning logs.

After some minutes, the pastor took the fire tongs, carefully picked up a brightly burning ember and placed it to one side of the hearth all alone. Then he sat back in his chair, still silent. The host watched all this in quiet contemplation. As the one lone ember’s flame flickered and diminished, there was a momentary glow and then its fire was no more.

Soon it was cold and dead. Not a word had been spoken since the initial greeting. The Pastor glanced at his watch and realized it was time to leave, he slowly stood up, picked up the cold, dead ember and placed it back in the middle of the fire. Immediately it began to glow, once more with the light and warmth of the burning coals around it.

As the pastor reached the door to leave, his host said with a tear running down his cheek, “Thank you so much for your visit and especially for the fiery sermon. I shall be back in church next Sunday.”

Two lessons I learned. First, the greatest sermon will always be a silent sermon. The words that can be heard from my actions as a priest. The greatest evangelization is by silently witnessing to the Gospel of Christ. Second, we need a community where we can be with in praying and worshiping God. We need a community whom we can journey with.

Prayer:

Lord, thank you for using simple actions in waking us up and in warming up our faith in you. Amen.

The Wiper and The Rain

The wiper clears the windshield.

"Who gave Himself for us to redeem us from every lawless deed, and to purify for Himself a people for His own possession, zealous for good deeds." -Titus 2:14 (NASB)

One rainy evening when Mark Tayo was driving me home and as I was watching the movement of the wiper as it clears the windshield, I suddenly thought of something.

The rain is like sin and the wipers are like God wiping away our sins. As the rain kept on coming, I also thought that indeed man keeps on sinning, too, but God keeps on forgiving us.

May this truth encourage us not to be afraid to ask God's forgiveness. WE avail of the Holy Sacrament of Confession and there we will experience the love of God that wipes away our sins.

Prayer:

Lord, thank you for always forgiving us. For always embracing us with your love and mercy. Amen.

Archbishop Tang Yee Ming and the Holy Mass

The Coat of Arms of Archbishop Dominic Tang Yee-Ming

"Do this in remembrance of me." -Luke 22:19 (NIV)

The tomb of the Holy and Eucharistic Archbishop of Canton

at the Mission Sta. Clara de Asis in Sta. Clara, California

where he was buried upon his death in Stamford, Connecticut

at the age of 87.

When in Macau, SAR China, in one of my many visits there, I got the chance of talking a very devout Catholic old lady. She was from Canton in the Mainland China and she was just in Macau also for a short visit. Thanks to a Chinese friend who translated our conversation. The lady told of of a story about a certain Jesuit Archbishop named Dominic Tang Yee Ming. He was born in Hong Kong on May 13, 1908.

She said that this Holy and Eucharistic Archbishop inspired most of them to love Jesus in the Holy Mass. This is her story about the late Archbishop of Canton.

Archbishop Dominic was arrested on February 5, 1958 and was imprisoned for twenty-two years, the charges were his loyalty to the Catholic Church and the Pope and his faith in Jesus Christ.

He was in put for five years in a solitary cell. A dark and windowless cell. After five years of confinement in his prison cell, the guards told him that he was free to do whatever he wanted. He could also leave the prison cell for some few hours. The guards then asked the good Archbishop what he wanted.

"Would it be hot food or a hot shower?" He was asked. "Or would it be a telephone call to priests or family members?" "Do you want to read news papers?", were the other questions. They wanted to know what he wanted to do.

But the good Archbishop replied, "I would like to celebrate Holy Mass."

The Archbishop, despite being imprisoned because of his faith in Jesus, still wanted to show how much he loved Him. May like him, we be able to celebrate the Holy Mass with all our hearts to show our love and our faith in Christ, our Lord.

Prayer:

Lord, thank you for your loving presence in the Holy Eucharist. May we continue celebrating your love in the Holy Mass. Amen.

Love Your Parents

Mark Anthony Tayo embracing Mama Irene on Mothers' Day.
Offering her flowers with a greeting on his arms.

"“Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be long in the land that the Lord your God is giving you." -Exodus 20:12

As I was reading posts on my Facebook Page, I was touched by a photo posted by Mara Clarisse N. Tayo. A photo of his Kuya Mark embracing Mama Irene, offering her flowers and inscribing "Happy Mothers' Day" on his arm. What a very touching scene. A son with much love for his mother. A son who despite his shortcomings was able to make "bawi" for everything to his mama. A son whom at first glance seems to be so tough was able to show and express his love for his mother with a tender kiss and a tight embrace.

Dear friends, I am sharing this to all for us to realize that indeed, we need to do all these, we need to express our love, we need to offer them flowers, we need to make then feel loved, we need to take care of them while they are still with us. We need to show them respect. We need to make them happy.

I saw some problems with many of us. WE are afraid to express our feelings towards our parents, we are afraid or sometime ashamed to say "I love you", or give them gifts. Then when they are gone, we make all the efforts to give them the beautiful things that they do not have while they were still with us.

Dear friends, when our parents are gone, even we put all the beautiful flowers around their coffin, they won't appreciate its beauty. Even we shout how much we love the, they won't hear it anymore. Even we give them the tightest hug and the most tender kiss, they won't feel them anymore.

But more than anything, more than material things, showing them that we are taking our lives seriously and doing thins to better our future are the greatest show of our love and respect to our parents. No parents want to die seeing their children without the best life. No parents want to leave without seeing or without any assurance that their children will be secured.

Let us learn from Pareng ko Mark Anthony Tayo. Express your love to your parents.

Prayer:

Lord, continue to inspire us through people with a great big heart for their parents. Teach us to be more expressive in our love towards our parents. Amen.

A Mothers' Day Prayer

With my beloved Nanay, Mrs. Vicky Berber-Manabat

"Who can find a virtuous woman? She is far more precious than jewels... 
Strength and honor are her clothing, and she can laugh at the time to come. 
She opens her mouth with wisdom, and loving instruction is on her tongue. 
She watches over the activities of her household and is never idle. 
Her sons rise up and call her blessed. 
Her husband also praises her: 
Many women are capable, but you surpass them all! 
Charm is deceptive and beauty is fleeting, but a woman who fears the Lord will be praised." -Proverbs 31:10, 25-30

I would like to share with you a prayer for Mothers on the day we honor them. I would like to offer this prayer for my own mother, my beloved Nanay, Mrs. Vicky Berber-Manabat. I would like to invite you all to pray this prayer for your own mothers, too.

 Let us pray:

I thank you God for the gift of my mother.

I thank you that she gave me life and nurtured me all those years.

She gave me my faith, helping me to know you and your ways.

She taught me how to love and how to sacrifice for others.

She taught me that I was just okay to cry and that I should always tell the truth.

Bless her with all the graces that she needs and which you want to give her today as I honor her.

Help her to feel that she is very precious in your eyes especially today and to know that I lover her very much.

Please give her strength and courage, compassion and peace.

Bless her , O Lord on this very special day dedicated to her with your love. In Jesus' mighty name. Amen.

What's In Your Heart?

"Your word I have hidden in my heart..." -Psalm 119:11

I heard of a story about two friends who were walking on a busy streets of the metropolis. One was showing the place to his friend from the province.
Suddenly the guy from the province said, "Listen my friend, I can the birds chirping. Wow! How beautiful!"

"Oh, that's crazy!", the city guy said. "People here do not hear birds singing. Especially with this noise."

The friend from the province pulled out his handkerchief and some coins from his pocket fell to the ground. Immediately people scrambled to pick up the coins.
People really do hear what is in their hearts. 

What's in your heart my friend? Is it the words of God? Or something? If we have God's words in our hearts, we will always be able to listen to Him despite the noise of sin.

Prayer:

Lord, may your Divine Word remain in me and in my heart. Amen.

Kuyang Johnson and Ate Jhacky Manabat: Christian Parents

Kuyang Johnson and Ate Jhacky Manabat with son Inigo Ezekiel.

“Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.” –Proverbs 22:6

When I became active in the Social Media specifically in Facebook, I started knowing people, much more I became interested in meeting relatives who are unknown to me. I barely knew Kuya Johnson Manabat, the only thing I knew about him was he is a news anchor over DZMM Teleradyo. Whenever people ask me how I am related to him, I always answer the we just have the same surname and we just both came from the same province--Nueva Ecija.

Kuyang Johnson became a friend in FB and he is very accomodative, then Ate Jhacky his wife became my friend, too. To be honest, Ate and I communicated much than Kuyang because of his very hectic schedules in reporting.

We became somehow familiar to each other and at last we were able to see and meet each other last May 3, 2014, during the anticipated celebration of my 7th Sacerdotal Anniversary.

After the Holy Mass, Inigo, their son approached me and make "mano" in which I blessed him and called him by name. He smiled at me saying "Kilala nyo po ako?". During the short program, Inigo went to me, we shared stories, I asked him questions and he asked me, too. Inigos' gestures and responses with "po" and "opo" made me think that Kuyang and Ate must be  good parents. They must be teaching Inigo all those things.

In another incident while looking at my FB account, as I usually answer messages, prayer requests and inquiries I came across an album of Inigo giving foods to people along the streets. "It is something", I told myself. The whole family doing what I am also doing. The "Street Presence Apostolate" as I called it.

Kuyang Johnson and Ate Jhacky Manabat are very silent persons. They do things as parents in quiet. But they are parents to be emulated. They are true christian parents worthy of emulation. I hope, many parents will be inspired by this wonderful couple leading their child in doing good. God bless you Kuyang and Ate! Kudos to both of you! Inigo will be somebody in the future because of a very good training you are giving him!

Prayer:

Lord, I thank you for the gift of Kuyang and Ate with Inigo. They are inspiration to me. Lord, continue to bless them. Embrace them and be their protection. Keep them in love and in your peace. May all families be a seedbed of goodness. Amen.

Jesus and I: A Reflection

"And so we know and rely on the love God has for us. God is love. Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in them." -1 John 4:16

One time when I donated blood for a friend, something came into my mind and I am sharing it because I found it good to be reflected upon:

I gave blood, Jesus gave His. I gave a pint, He gave His all.

My needle is short and sharp, His nails were large and dull;

My cot was soft and restful, His cross was rough and hard;

My med-techs were kind and gentle, the soldiers were cruel and mean;

The crowd applauded my sacrifice, those who passed by reviled Him;

Mine was type A (I think positive, I just forgot), His was positive for all;

Mine, at best, will prolong life fr a while, His, without doubt, will SAVE us all for eternity!

Mine is nothing, Jesus' is more than anything!

Prayer:

Lord, thank you for giving up your life for us to live in eternity. Amen.

Akala Mo Lang: Isang Pasasalamat

"Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another." -Proverbs 27:17

Sometimes, thoughts of our hearts must be expressed in words. and here it is:

Madalang akong sumulat ng mga ganito para sa mga tao...sa totoo lang iilan pa lang kayo.
Madalas para sa Nanay ko at ilang mga kakilala. Mga taong talagang itinuturing kong malaki ang anging bahagi sa buhay ko. Kung sino ako at kung nasaan man ako ngayon.

May taglay kang karisma na wala sa iba. Sasabihin ko sa'yo sa kabila ng mga pagkakaiba nating dalawa bilang tao nahatak mo ako. Oo, nahatak mo ako na gawin ang mga bagay na akala ko ay hindi ko kaya. Ang pag utot ng malakas, ang pagsinga sa damit, ang pagtatali ng sintas sapantalon, ang pagsimot sa ketsup ng mcdo at jollibee na minsan nakakasama na ang tinta ng pouch sabay sabing "hmmm...saaaraaaappp...". Ito ang mga bagay na nagpakilala sa akin na tao pa din pala ako. Nag paalala sakin na kahit na sa mga simpleng bagay at pagkakataon, pwede pala maging masaya.

Agapay ang bigay mo sa aking paglalakbay. Akala mo lang siguro na wala kang nagawa, ngayon sasabihin ko sayo, ikaw ang siyang naging kaagapay ko sa aking paglalakbay. Yes, maraming mga pagkakataon na lingid sa iyo at hindi mo alam na may mga mabibigat akong pinagdadaanan, pero ang iyong presensya, ang iyong mga encouraging and inspiring texts, ang iyong mga tapik sa balikat, hawak sa kamay at ang iyong mga akbay ay nagsasabing, kaya natin to...kasama natin si Papa Lord!

Rakista! Yes, Your rock my life! Ano ibig kong sabihin? ah, nananhimik ako tapos binulabog mo. Hehe, in a positive way. Ipinamulat mo sa akin ang tunay na mundo, napalabas mo ako sa aking comfort zones. BUhay kalye, buhay labas nakita at naappreciate ko. Masaya naman pala. Nabago ang pagtanaw ko sa mga taong may tattoo. Nabago pagtingin ko sa mga taong nagkukwentuhan sa kalye. Nabago lahat, dahil itinuro at ipinakita mo ang mga ito. Binulabog mo, kasi mas tinuruan mo din akong umunawa ng mga kahinaan ng tao. Na walang perpekto, pero kapag ginamit ang puso makikita na sa kabila ng lahat ay pwedeng mahalin, tanggapin at patwarin ang isa't isa.

Kahinaan ay hindi dapat pala maging hadlang sa isang masaya at mapayang pagsasama. Hindi pala ito dapat maging sanhi ng pagkasira ng tunay na sinimulang maganda. Hindi pa ito dapat maging hadlang para ipagpatuloy ang nasimulang tunay na pagkakaibigan. Yes, ikaw na ang lahat, kaibigan, kaagapay, kapatid, tagapagturo, inspirayon, kapartner sa lahat ng bagay (partner in crime sabi nila, ahehe), ang maganda pa lagi nating kasama si papa Lord. Grabe naman yun, prayer partner pa tayo, taga salo, tagapagtanggol. Lahat na yun!

Akala mo lang na walang magandang naidulot sa akin ang mga panahong ito, meron, kaya isang pasasalamat ang sa iyo ay hanog ko. Maraming salamat kasi sa kabila ng lahat nandito pa din tayo kasama ang ating mga mahal na pamilya at mga kaibigan...ang KUsh Clan na walang iwanan...Maraming bagay ang aking natutunan, promise!

Kahit may mga alitan, hindi pagkakaunawaan, tampuhan, wala pa namang bangayan at away talaga, ahehe...eh nakatutuwang hanggang ngayon eto pa din tayo solid kasama ang mga kaibigan at pamilyang tunay na nagmamahal...Dalangin ko ang katatagan at ang magandang kalusugan para sa lahat. Nawa ay mamayani ang kapayapaan at pagmamahalan sa puso ng bawat isa. Salamat papa Lord sa biyaya ng taong ito.

 Mark Anthony N. Tayo isa kang regalo ng Diyos sa iyong mga kaibigan, sa iyong mahal na pamilya at sa akin...isa kang inspirasyon sa marami, nawa'y magpatuoy ka sa paggawa ng tama, mabuti at akma, nawa'y tuloy tuloy ang pag abot mo sa iyong mga pangrap. Maraming salamat sa iyo Pareng ko.

Prayer:
Lord, bless my inspiration, my beloved Pareng Ko. Amen.