Inspirations at your Fingertips!

What lies in men's hearts? Mark 2:23-28 In the two readings, it is not through external manifestations that we are judged but by what is inside, for God looks into the heart. What lies in men's hearts? We somehow learned in theology that the root cause of man's sinfulness lies in that pure desire symbolized by the serpent.  Mankind's history is a history of God taming that desire after man disobeyed Him. But desires are neither good nor evil.  It is how man uses them that account for the good or evil in the world. We can use our desires to aim for the true, the good, and the beautiful.  For a saint who desires only what is good has the energy and life to do it. We can use our desires to see God and be created in his image and likeness. Third, we use our desires to lead people to heaven. Use that desire for good, God, and others.

The discerning heart Mt. 4, 12-17, 23-25 As we prepare to shift from Christmas to ordinary time, we prepare for the renewal of our baptism.  The Christmas decors may be kept but real Christmas is flowing in our hearts. The best way for Christmas to remain in our hearts is orient it to the discerning heart of Mary, "pondering all these things in her heart." What makes a discerning heart?  First orient that heart to Christ. Second, you will know in the heart which ones belong to Christ and which ones do not.  Test the Spirit; learn its fruits like the fruits harvested by Jesus - goodness and healing everywhere. Third, orient that heart to follow Christ and offer everything to him.

Experiencing Christmas everyday John 1:19-28 Like Mary, let us continue pondering on the wonders of Christmas. John in the first reading seems to be talking directly to a generation that has not seen Christ and yet have faith him. It may not be eye account of the Jesus but that which was taught to them is enough proof for the faith in Jesus to flourish. There are two sacraments that confirm this fact: baptism and confirmation.  In baptism, we are planted the seed of faith.  In confirmation, we are anointed to give witness to Jesus. Let us start anticipating what would happen to us after Christmas.  Let the graces of these sacraments plus the Holy Eucharist enliven our resolve to see Jesus in the sacraments and in us.  And everyday we shall experience the true meaning of Christmas!