Inspirations at your Fingertips!

Monday of week 6 in Ordinary Time Mark 8:11-13 The skeptics asked for a sign from Jesus in order to test him.  Jesus retaliated by saying, "No sign shall be given." The real sign is already in their midst, Jesus Christ, Incarnate Son of God.  But the skeptics weren't able to detect the miracle infront of them. Pray that we may recognize the sign in our midst.  In the first reading, James expounded on the world of trials as tickets to discovering God's presence.  We abhor trials, but they could serve as opportunities to deepen our faith and commitment to God.  If in the midst of trials, we remain faithful to God then, trials become graces. Second, trials are given to us so we may discern God's action.  This too is a sign if we opt to stay close to Jesus and discern his will. Thirdly, trials help us to be humble.  This too is a sign. God prunes our hearts according to his own heart. Reflect:  How do we treat the trials in our lives?...

Remedies to violence Matthew 10:17-22 A day after Christmas and we are exposed to violence: the death of Stephen and the warning of Jesus.  It shows us that this is the world Jesus entered and saved from sin.  It would entail also the offering of his life.  This is our Christmas as well. In the face of violence and in front of non-God-fearing people, the best remedies are trust in the Lord, commitment to serve him, and perseverance in faith. Trust in the Lord because when the time comes, it is the Lord who will speak through us. Be committed to serve him despite all odds, so that when we face our accusers, we can face them with clear consciences. Last but not the least, persevere in faith; in time, we will reap the fruits of this perseverance: the conversion of our brothers and sisters.