The love of God is something that only He can give, and just like the rain on a summer day, is a breath of fresh air. His love is there regardless of who we are. In the First Reading, we are reminded of how deep God’s love is, even more intense than the love of a mother. Whenever we see a person in the worst and most difficult of circumstances, people who we think no one loves, we know confidently that despite everything, that person’s mother would love him no less. And yet, the reading says,

‘Even should she forget, I will never forget you.’ (Is. 49: 15)

As if this isn’t enough, this Sunday’s Gospel tells us not to worry, not to be anxious, and to seek the Kingdom instead. God assures us that for as long as we seek His righteousness, all these things will be provided us His children. He tells us not to worry about life, what we’ll eat or drink, or what we’ll wear. He is truly a loving and caring God, only wanting the best for us! Our Parish Priest, Fr. Roy Rosales mentioned that this Sunday’s Gospel reading is one of his favorites in the Scriptures. I certainly agree!

In the Second Reading, we are reminded that the ultimate judge is God. We shouldn’t make any judgment on others, as we really don’t know the circumstances behind their actions and behavior. What we see outside may not reflect the real motives of their hearts and so we better reserve judgment. Anyway, the Lord will bring to light what is hidden in darkness, and will reveal the motives of their hearts. (1 Cor. 4: 5)

As the Lenten Season comes in very soon, we are invited to re-focus and to re-direct our priorities. Doing the things for God like feeding the hungry, clothing the naked, and providing a home for those without shelter are certainly part of the needs of the Kingdom here on earth. Sharing what we have so that the needs of the least will be met should be top-of-mind. We should remember that we are only stewards of our talents and treasures, hence we should be discerning on how these will be put to use. Sharing is one of them.

Let us then respond wholeheartedly, knowing that in doing these to others, we give them a glimpse of the face of Jesus. Trust Him and don’t worry about your own concerns, for He has never failed in His promises.

‘My soul rests in God alone; from whom comes my salvation. God alone is my rock and salvation, my secure height; I shall not fall.’ (Ps. 62: 2)

At the convent of the St. Francis Church along Shaw Boulevard in Mandaluyong City is a painting of our Lord Jesus with a worried expression, where His statement ‘Love your enemy’ is written. This quote is one, if not the most difficult command of Jesus to His followers.

The world today is full of conflict and misunderstandings. It is the most difficult time to be a parent, elder, or leader especially that there is so much confusion and distraction brought about by dishonesty, crime or any wrongdoing in the past and present. When society is besieged by years of doubt and mistrust, frustration can turn into anger and aggression.

When people respond by any act of aggression, more conflict results. The culture of revenge is perpetuated especially when harm has been going on for many years, decades even, such that the original act which started the conflict is even long erased from memory. The conflict becomes an end in itself.

It is therefore timely and refreshing to reflect in this Sunday’s Gospel, as our Lord said,

‘You have heard that it was said,
You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.
But I say to you, love your enemies
and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be children of your heavenly Father…’ (Mt. 5: 43-45)

Jesus offers a fresh approach to conflict that says we should extend forgiveness and offer more than what is taken; we should offer love. This abundant response may not be our first reaction especially in the heat of the moment. Especially if we’ve been hurt for a long time. Indeed, this is very hard to follow, but Jesus gives us the commandments as a guide or map to reach Him and our final destination. The power to forgive — and to love our enemies — is God’s divine power and is free for those who desire it. This is the same power that healed the sick, gave sight to the blind, and raised the dead, among others. This is the power that made Jesus rise from the dead in full majesty and glory.

Growing in holiness involves not just by avoiding sin, but should include doing good. Jesus commands us to do more, ‘magis’, than just the barest minimum to get through. Being a Christian isn’t easy.

In the end, we should ask ourselves, ‘Is Jesus worth it?’ Your answer will determine whether you will ‘love your enemy’ or not.

‘Whoever keeps the word of Christ, the love of God is truly perfected in him.’ (1 Jn. 2: 5)

Before driving to Church, I was making adjustments in the car’s navigation system and then Alma and Alexa were joking why I’m doing it when I already know the way. You see, I was just trying to get familiar with the GPS aside from trying to input the Church as part of favorite destinations for future use.

It’s apt to think of our earthly journey as a spiritual GPS; we know where we came from, and where we’re headed to. Just like the car’s GPS, there’s a guide, and there’s a direction to go. There are even options for routes that avoids expressways, etc. or even high density of traffic. You can tap any of these, it’s your choice. Similarly, in our spiritual journey we need a guide and a teacher to show us the way.

In today’s Gospel, Jesus shows a forcefulness that is quite discomforting. Imagine tearing our eye and throwing it away. (Mt. 5: 29) If we look at what Jesus was saying in its totality, I think what He means is to “take responsibility for our actions”. Whenever we sin, we shouldn’t blame others and make justifications. We shouldn’t blame our enemies and tell them that they should be the first to say “sorry”. It is our duty and responsibility to tell them and to deal with it regardless of who is right or wrong.

Yes, it is very difficult to change especially that we can’t bring this by ourselves. Jesus warned that when He said,

‘I tell you, unless your righteousness surpasses that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will not enter the kingdom of Heaven.’ (Mt. 5: 20)

We should select authentic change and acknowledge that we need the help of God to give us the strength and courage to persevere and not to falter. The most important thing is the intent to grow in the Lord and to bring Him into our relationships. Praying for forgiveness and seeking Jesus help should be sought after. Jesus is the only way, so there should be no better option in our spiritual GPS!

Once in a while, we will fail by nature of original sin but the Lord will be there, just the perfect navigator to get us back on our routes. If we allow Him, He will provide us the spiritual GPS we need in order to get us to our Eternal destination.

‘Lord, teach me the way of your laws; I shall observe them with care. Give me insight to observe your teaching, to keep it with all my heart.’ (Ps. 119: 33-34)

As you go anywhere from around the country, you’ll notice that comparing the prices of seafood with those in Metro Manila markets, you’ll notice that the prices in the metropolis are higher not only due to the demand but from the kind and quality of fish harvested. As you go farther away from the capital, say for example when in coastline Cebu province, you’ll notice that the seafood, aside from being cheaper are also fresher. The fish are mostly from the sea surrounding these areas, while those in Metro Manila are mainly from fishponds and culture farms. One can still buy seawater fish, but you’ll have to reach out deep into your wallet. It is more expensive because it is tastier. Why? The salt content is higher.

The Gospel today talks about being the salt of the earth and light of the world. People in leadership or high-profile positions doing ‘good works’ will likely be noticed more. While the usual insight is on the possible good reaction from others who notice the ‘good works’ being done, there’s also the reaction of others who may feel threatened and envious. God then becomes not the recipient of appreciation, but more on the meanness directed at the person doing good. Instead of the beautiful light emanating from the hill, there’s the negative reaction in others.

Being subjected to such nastiness is not a pleasant experience, and it has the ability to disable our zeal and intention to do good. I know of some people who are capable of doing so much goodness and yet the fear of being noticed limits the ability to get discernment and strength from the Holy Spirit.

Yet, we shouldn’t fear. Despite these difficulties, be comforted by the thought that we are doing this for the Lord and reflecting His light to others who are in need of direction and guidance. The world will definitely be a much better place to live in if we live by Christ’s command,

‘Sharing your bread with the hungry,
sheltering the oppressed and the homeless;
clothing the naked when you see them,
and not turning your back on your own.’ (Is. 58: 7)

We have to remain bold and relentless for the Lord. In the final analysis, what others think will not matter more than what is important in God’s eyes.

‘I am the light of the world, says the Lord; whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.’ (Jn. 8: 12)