Inspirations at your Fingertips!

Thursday of the 2nd week of Eastertide John 3:31-36 When we mention the word "heavenly", sometimes it connotes something very beautiful and pleasing, like food, "It tastes heavenly".  But the real definition of "heavenly" is one that is holy, coming from above, or "Godly", having the attributes of God.  This can also be contrasted with "earthly", or material.  For example, the threat of financial straits confronts us during this time of covid.  We need food and money to sustain our lives.  These are earthly concerns.  But inspite of financial difficulties, we have become responsible stewards, utilizing God-given gifts, and even in the midst of difficulties, we still do our part to help others and really plan in this time of crisis by planning for the good of all, and assist those who have turned hungry, then the attribute of stewardship becomes a "heavenly" reality. This is what Peter and John said, "It is bet...

Saturday of week 20 in Ordinary Time Matthew 23:1-12  What is described in the first reading is the glory of God, something we hope to see in the future - to be included among the saints in God's kingdom. Unfortunately, the pharisees who are supposed to know this are the ones corrupting the faithful.  They are more concerned with earthly externalities that they forget that the very heart of the faith is not themselves but God and their relationship with him. How do we maintain our focus on heavenly realities?  We can focus on our relationship with Jesus through the following: Rabbi - teacher; take time to learn only from the Master who teaches righteousness, no more, no less.  His teachings are found in the teachings of the Church. Father - this is not to belittle the priests when we call them "Father"; but Fatherhood connotes trusting and loving the Father who provides for his children.  This loving relationship puts peace in our hearts inste...

Friday of week 11 in Ordinary Time Mt 6:19-23 No matter how we put it, evil will not last.  It is always geared towards a certain and definitive end. Athaliah killed the members of the royal household and took over the throne.  But God would not allow injustice to thrive.  He made the surviving son Joash live.  In the end, justice was served, Joash was made king, and Athaliah was killed. The good will always triumph.  The supreme good is Jesus himself; death has no power over him. We can also promote, live out, and share none other than goodness.  Today's gospel gives us a hint on how we can live out goodness: First, subdue inordinate attachments to material things.  Think, live out and share heavenly things, our real treasures.  Think of life as a stepping stone to heaven.  Each day is a step closer to heaven.  We also lead others to heaven, not lead them to obsession to power, fame, or wealth. Second, the truth.  "Th...