I vividly recall my first encounter with a camel in the Holy Land. The kind owner offered me a complimentary ride on the magnificent creature, and I eagerly accepted. It was an unforgettable experience. However, when I expressed my desire to dismount, the owner suddenly requested a fee of $1.
In today’s Gospel passage (Mt. 9:36-10:8), Jesus imparts a valuable lesson to His disciples: “You have received freely, so freely give.” He emphasizes that discipleship entails selfless service without seeking any financial gain. We need modern-day disciples who wholeheartedly proclaim the Kingdom of God, serving Him and His people with unwavering generosity and joy.
“The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few; therefore, pray to the master of the harvest to send out more workers.” Unfortunately, the number of individuals answering the call to priesthood and religious life continues to decline. Let us join together in prayer for an increase in vocations, for we need modern-day shepherds to lead and care for the flock.
We express sincere gratitude to God for the rise of lay partners and disciples who actively contribute to the church. The Holy Spirit has indeed revitalized the Earth through the selflessness of men and women worldwide who bring life to the church. Our overseas Filipino workers and immigrants play a crucial role in spreading the light of faith through their worship, work, and vibrant communities.
On this Father’s Day, I give thanks to God for my Papa and Mama, who tirelessly encouraged and fervently prayed for my priesthood. Papa hoped that at least one of his three sons would become a priest. By the grace of God, one of us did. On October 25, 1980, after 16 years of dedicated seminary formation, I was ordained as a missionary priest for the Society of the Divine Word at the Divine Word Seminary Tagaytay, a momentous occasion that brought great joy to Papa’s heart. I am immensely grateful to Papa and Mama for their selflessness in offering me to the Lord and for the gift of priesthood that has profoundly shaped my life.
Papa and Mama possessed a strong devotion to the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, seeking solace and strength in times of trials and afflictions. They continuously prayed to the Sacred Heart for the sanctification of their priestly son and for all priests. I humbly request that you continue to pray for us, your priests.
We stand united with you on our journey to the heart of God. As we grow in faith, may we draw closer to our Lord, guided by the example of Mary, our Mother and ultimate model. No one knows and loves Jesus more than our dear Mother Mary, who leads us ever closer to her Son.
I would like to share a prayer with you: “Lord Jesus, enlighten my areas of darkness, strengthen my areas of weakness, mend what is broken and bruised in me, heal what is sick, and revive the peace and love that have waned in my heart. Amen.”
If you are yearning for true happiness, try embracing generosity. The more you give, the more joy will come flooding back into your life. And when you give joyfully and anonymously, you will experience a profound sense of joy that the world cannot give nor take away.
Take a moment to ponder this thought: Are you merely focused on amassing wealth and fame? Or are you actively making a difference in the world? Consider whether you are living a life enriched with love, compassion, and a genuine spirit of sharing. Live in such a way that your presence brings light and positivity to those around you, making the world a better place.
Here’s a lighthearted observation: “Father’s Day may only come once a year, but every day should be Mother’s Day!”
Let us pray that the Lord guides us to live lives of generosity, just as He has been abundantly generous to us. Amen.
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