NO NEED TO FEAR, Jesus IS NEAR

a personal reflection on Luke 1:39-45

"Salamat!" Then I gave the streetkid some coins for guiding me while I was parking the car earlier.

He smiled back.
"Magpakabait ka ha, para makapunta ka ng langit."
"Saan po ba ang langit?"
"Kung nasaan si Jesus, dun ang langit!"

Heaven is where Jesus is but God loves you so much that HE is willing to go where you are. You may feel un-worthy like Elizabeth who asked "And how does this happen to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me?" (Luke 1:43)

Don't feel un-worthy. Jesus loves to meet us wherever we are. Check out these examples.

• Joseph was SLEEPING when God appeared to him in a dream saying "Joseph, son of David, do not fear to take Mary your wife, for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit"(Matthew 1:20)
• The adulterous woman was CAUGHT IN THE ACT OF SINNING when Jesus bent down & told her "Neither do I condemn you; go, and do not sin again." (John 8:11)
• Peter was WORKING when Jesus said to him "Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men." (Matthew 4:19)
• Lazarus WAS DEAD when Jesus asked them to take away the stone & HE cried out "Lazarus, come out." (John 11:43). Then a miracle happened. Lazarus was alive again!

Kahit tulog ka, nasa trabaho, nagkakasala andun si Kristo. Wherever you are, whatever you are doing always remember that God is there. This coming Christmas, we remember how God became man to be with us.

"In this the love of God was made manifest among us, that God sent his only-begotten Son into the world, so that we might live through him." - 1 John 4:9

MAHAL na MAHAL KA NG DIYOS KAYA KUNG NASAAN KA MAN, PUPUNTAHAN KA NIYA.

There is no need to fear because Jesus is near. Remember, going to heaven should be our "end-of-life" goal. But being with Jesus should be our "every moment" goal. This last Sunday of #Advent2018, may we reminded that GOD WILL MEET US WHERE WE ARE!! - alvinfabella@yahoo.com

DO YOU HATE THE WAIT?

Hate the wait?

Just have faith.

Coz God is never late.

That's what makes it great!

So, just wait.

A CLOSER LOOK

a personal reflection on Matthew 1:1-17

Nakakita ka na ba ng snow? Ako hindi pa.

Snow looks like ordinary fluffy, white, frozen rain at first glance. A friend says that you have to look at snow through a microscope, a magnifying glass or take a closer look. Then you will appreciate it's total beauty.

That’s like reading today's Gospel Matthew 1:1-17. The chosen cast of character look questionable. You also feel bored with all “the father of” phrases. This story takes second place in the "dullest story in the bible" category. The gold winner, for me, still goes to the book of Leviticus 🙂

That is until you TAKE A CLOSER LOOK (or read) at the story.

Jacob was a liar,
Rahab was a prostitute,
Ruth was a Moabite, a cursed clan because their patriach Moab was the son of Lot who had an incestuous relationships with his own daughter (Genesis 19),
David was an adulterer & murderer,
& there are more questionable characters mentioned.

But from that not so perfect family tree comes out Jesus. The Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6) & totally sinless God/Man came out from a family of liars, adulterers, murderers & killers!

Isn’t that like the story of our lives also? It’s full of dirt, full of sin & other things that we are not proud of. We have been through a lot of “dark” periods. The events of your life may not look so good but Jesus will come out victorious in the end. Remember what Romans 8:28 says "that in everything God works for good with those who love Him".

This #Advent2018, don't focus on what's "nega" in your life, simply WAIT & BELIEVE in Jesus! - alvinfabella@yahoo.com

APPETIZER PA LANG ULAM NA

a personal reflection on Luke 3:10-18

The FRONT ACT is supposed to be a warm-up or opening act only. He performs before the featured act or "headliner”. Kung baga appetizer o patikim pa lang. John the Baptist was a special front act. In today’s Gospel he gives us three life lessons when the people asked him "What then shall we do?” (Luke 3:10)

1. GIVE NOT GAIN. "He who has two coats, let him share with him who has none; and he who has food, let him do likewise.” (Luke 10:11). Christmas is all about giving. Sometimes, we focus too much on what we will receive that we forget what giving is all about. John 3:16 says "that HE gave HIS only Son, so that everyone who believes in him might not perish but might have eternal life”. True giving is when you give even if you will not getting back. Ano ba pwede mo ibigay sa Diyos na wala Siya? WALA. Yet God gives us “His ONLY Son”. Who are the people that cannot “pay you back” with a gift? They should be the people on your Christmas list.
2. ACKNOWLEDGED GOD so you don’t ABUSE others. "Collect no more than is appointed you" (Luke 10:13). John the Baptist knew what his role was. Alam niya na mas mataas si Hesus. He preached that he baptizes "with water; but he who is mightier than I is coming, the thong of whose sandals I am not worthy to untie; he will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and with fire” (Luke 10:16). What does this teach us? That we should know where we stand so we don’t abuse our power. If we know that God should be above all then we become a more loving people because that is God’s essence. God is love. You will not take advantage of the people that you truly love. Kaya magmahal tayo, huwag mang-abuso.
3. CONTENTMENT OVER CONTEMPT. "Rob no one by violence or by false accusation, and be content with your wages” (Luke 10:11). If you woke up today then you’re blessed! Be satisfied with you what you have. It is futile to always aim on acquiring things because there will always be someone who will be richer than you. Do not treat people as “assets" that can get you more assets. Paano dapat ang trato sa kapwa? RESPECT. Treat everybody with respect. This applies specially if you are a leader & people report to you. Respect your subordinates. You may not agree on religion, politics or if Lebron is the "G.O.A.T" (Greatest Of All Time). The important thing to remember is that every person is valuable in the eyes of God. If God can respect every soul then we should do the same.

GIVE, ACKNOWLEDGE, CONTENTMENT. Appetizer pa lang yan mga kapatid, busog na tayo. Finally, WE REJOICE! That is what the 3rd Sunday of Advent tells us. We rejoice because we have an awesome front act in the person of John the Baptist. We rejoice because Jesus is coming soon. Christmas is near but not yet. Have a blessed #Advent2018! - alvinfabella@yahoo.com

GRABE SIYA OH!

a personal reflection on Matthew 11:16-19

• God warned them not to eat it. But maybe the temptation was too much that "she took of its fruit and ate; and she also gave some to her husband, and he ate." (Genesis 3:6).
• Moses told them there was only One God. Pero ng mawala si Moses ng saglit, inipon nila ang mga ginto at gumawa sila agad ng mga diyos nila. Then they said "These are your gods, O Israel, who brought you up out of the land of Egypt!” (Exodus 32:4).
• John the Baptist preached "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” (Matthew 3:2). The people were supposed to rejoice & follow what he proclaimed. Sadly, eleven chapters after, we read that he was "beheaded in the prison.” (Matthew 14:10).
• Jesus became man, healed the sick, fed the hungry & forgave sins. He loved everyone & "they could charge him with nothing deserving death, yet they asked Pilate to have him killed.” (Acts 13:28).

Grabe noh! This creature called man looks like a totally hopeless case. I refer to all of us when I say "man". Wala na yata tayong pag-asa. Ginawa na ng Diyos ang lahat pero ganun pa din tayo. Man has done bad things in the past. We continue to do bad things throughout the generations.

"But to what shall I compare this generation? It is like children sitting in the market places and calling to their playmates,” - Matthew 11:16

Grabe talaga! Di tayo nakikinig sa Diyos. Nowadays, we still prefer to do evil over good. We love to call out the mistakes of others but we don’t see our faults. We judged others but we don't know the full picture. We asked for God's pardon yet we cannot forgive our family or friend.

May pag-asa pa ba tayo?

Yes! But we need Jesus in our lives. Because despite our brokenness HE comes to save us. Matthew 11:19 says that "the Son of man came eating and drinking, and they say, 'Behold, a glutton and a drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and sinners!’”.

That’s us. The glutton, the drunkard, the tax collectors and the sinner! But do not focus on what's wrong with us. Focus on what's right with God.

Because that is who God is. We are REJECTS but HE REPAIRS US. We are BROKEN yet HE BUILDS US UP. We do EVIL but for God we are EVERYTHING to HIM.

So, if you want to give up already think about this truth first - GOD WILL PURSUE YOU NO MATTER HOW MUCH DIRT YOU HAVE IN YOUR LIFE! Kaya huwag ka muna sumuko. Remember, God has not given up on you.

Take time to listen to God this Season. Prepare your hearts for HIM & have a blessed #Advent2018! - @alvinfabella alvinfabella@yahoo.com

NOW NA!

a personal reflection on Luke 1:26-38

Paalis na sana ako pero bigla siya lumapit sa akin. 

“Sir, pwede mo ba ako tulungan?”

“Oo naman. Ano ba ang concern?”, I replied to the middle aged man who attended the talk I just gave.

“I always procrastinate. Sana magbago na ako. Can you pray-over me?”

“Sure! I would love to. Let's find a quiet corner…..”

He suddenly raised his hand to cut me off. He paused, then said “Ay, next time na lang. Thanks.”

The Season of Advent reminds us about the importance of waiting. In waiting, we realized that God blesses. In waiting, God forms us. God calls us to wait in faith. But when God asked you to do something, then you do it immediately. 

Why? Because God's plan is always the best plan. Sumunod ka kahit hindi mo masyado naiintindihan. 

• God tested Abraham by asking him to sacrifice his son Isaac. Sounds crazy, right? Did Abraham hesitate? Nope. Abraham immediately followed the next day. In Genesis 22:3 is says that “EARLY THE NEXT MORNING Abraham saddled his donkey, took with him two of his servants and his son Isaac.” (***Words in caps are my own emphasis)
• Peter was busy working when Jesus said "Come after me, and I will make you fishers of men” (Matthew 4:19). Did Peter say “Lord, let me finish this first. Sunod po ako mamayang 5 PM, after work”? Nope. Verse 20 says “AT ONCE they left their nets and followed him."
• Mary was pregnant with Jesus when she learned that her aged relative Elizabeth was also six months pregnant. Mary could easily make an excuse not to serve her. She could say “sorry I have morning sickness” or “it’s not safe for me to travel” or “mahal ang manggang hilaw sa Judah" :-). She could say any excuse & people would understand. But what does Mary do? In Luke 1:39 it says that "Mary SET OUT and traveled to the hill country IN HASTE to a town of Judah"

The inspired author of the above stories used the following key words “early next morning”, “at once” & “set out in haste”.  The main point of this post is this - WHEN GOD CALLS YOU, DON’T MAKE GOD WAIT. You do it right away, at once, no hesitation, "now na”! 

Are you a “WAIT LANG” type of a person? Be a "NOW NA!” person…….& don’t start tomorrow :-)

Have a blessed #Advent2018! - @alvinfabella alvinfabella@yahoo.com

DON’T JUST BE MERRY, BE LIKE MARY

a personal reflection on today's Gospel Luke 1:26-38 (December 8, 2018)

“Alvin, ganda ng mga posts mo! Christian ka pala?”Di ko alam kung matutuwa ako dun sa part na “…christian ka pala?” :) 
So I just smiled & replied back, “Yup, I’m #Catholic”
“Ohh, I thought you were a christian.”
“Oo nga, christian nga. I am a christian-Catholic”

That conversation with my friend did not end there. Don't get me wrong. I love friendly & reasonable discussions about my #Catholic faith. So, I decided to continue the conversation with my friend. I want to link that discussion with today's feast which is one of the more controversial teachings in the Catholic church. December 8 is the Feast day of The Immaculate Conception.

“How can Mary be sinless?”
“How much time do you have?”, I replied back to my friend.
"Not much. I have to go back to work."
"Ok, let me give it a shot."

We sin because we lack God's grace. There are a lot of ways for us to receive His grace. If you're #Catholic, receive the Sacraments as often as possible to get God's grace. So if we received grace regularly, why do we still sin?

Because we are like the poorly maintained roof of our ancestral house. We leak. We received grace but grace leaks out from us. Thus, we sin regularly because of lack of grace. But I know someone who does not lack grace. Her name is Mary.

She's always been full of grace. From her conception onwards. The angel Gabriel confirms this when he said, “Hail, full of grace! The Lord is with you.” (Luke 1:28)

Not partially full. Not probably full. Simply full. 100% full. When you're filled with grace there's no room for sin. There are other ways to explain the Immaculate Conception but my friend had to rush back to work. My friend asked for a part 2 of our discussion & we agreed to set a date.

Friends, this post is not meant to focus on the Immaculate Conception only. More importantly, the Gospel today encourages us to be like Mary. We are called to be saints like her. But how can we be like Mary? We are not sinless like her.

We can be like Mary by doing what she did. WE CAN SAY YES TO GOD.

In Luke 1:38 Mary said, “Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord. May it be done to me according to your word.”

Beautiful words indeed! Those words can be summarized in two - “YES, LORD". Maybe she did not fully understand the consequence of her “YES” but she agreed in faith. And because of that “YES”, God was able to save us through Jesus Christ! Wow!

This is what today's Gospel is telling us. THAT WHEN WE SAY “YES” TO GOD, AWESOME THINGS HAPPEN! The impossible becomes possible because "nothing will be impossible for God” (Luke 1:37).

May we be like Mary. May we be always ready to say “YES” to God no matter what it takes.

Have a blessed first Saturday of #Advent2018 ! - Alvin Fabellaalvinfabella@yahoo.com

"PAG DI MO NAKITA, MAKIKITA MO!”

a personal reflection on Matthew 9:27-31, the Gospel today December 7

Mahirap mag-intay. Sabi nga nila "patience is a virtue". I think the two blind men in today's Gospel waited for a long time. Because when they realized that Jesus arrived by they cried out aloud - "Have mercy on us, Son of David." (Matthew 9:27)

Then they approached to Jesus. Jesus asked them "do you believe that I am able to do this?" (Matthew 9:28)

Kapatid, yan din ang tanong ni Hesus sa iyo ngayon. Do you believe that God can do something in your life?

• That Jesus is able to change a person no matter how hopeless that person looks. Pwede pa yan!
• That God can make you love the un-loveable. Tayo nga minahal ng Diyos di ba?
• That God will heal you or your sick friend even if the doctor says otherwise. Believe & be well!
• That Jesus can teach you humility & move you to apologize to the people you offended. Forgive & be forgiven!
• Do you think God can help you stop that habitual sin? Stop the sin now!

Lahat yan ay depende sa iyo. When the two blind men told Jesus that they believed "their eyes were opened." (Matthew 9:30). Because your faith can move mountains (Matthew 17:20). Your faith will open your "eyes" & heal your "blindness". Your faith will open your life to miracles! Jesus says "according to your faith let it be done to you." (Matthew 9:29)

But it all starts with WAITING. The two blind men WAITED. Then at the right time they APPROACHED Jesus, BELIEVED & then they experienced a MIRACLE.

If you are able to WAIT, that's the a sign of FAITH!

Have a blessed first Friday of Advent! - alvinfabella@yahoo.com

THROUGH GOD’S EYES

“Many prophets and kings wanted to see what you see but did not see it.” – Luke 10:24

Michael was born in the Philippines but moved to the U.S. when he was only five years old. He worked with Habitat for Humanity and helped open their first ReStore shop that sells preloved, donated items. He loves helping others, and his work allowed him to do that. But deep inside, he felt that God wanted him to do more. Some people questioned his decision to leave his career that allowed him to earn and help others at the same time.

Michael wanted to take some time off so he decided to travel to the Philippines in 2014. He bought a round-trip ticket because he had no plans of staying. But he fell in love with the country and decided to stay. He applied for a position in resource development at Habitat Philippines. During his interview, he was surprised to hear that they were looking for a manager to start the first ReStore shop in the Philippines. It happened to be the same job he had in the U.S.! He was hired.

Today, ReStore Philippines is doing well through the efforts of Michael and his team. He’s back to doing what he loves in his own native land. Michael followed his heart and it allowed him to see and accomplish God’s plan for his life. -  alvinfabella@yahoo.com

http://kerygmafamily.com/modules/dailyreadings/read.php?date=2018-12-04

"DON’T WORRY, JUST WORSHIP”

a personal reflection on today's Gospel Luke 21:25–28, 34–36 (December 2, 2018)

Mabilis ka ba mag-panic? Are you the type who worries too much?

You see what’s happening around & then you start to worry. That's what the Gospel today says.

“And there will be signs in sun and moon and stars, and upon the earth distress of nations in perplexity at the roaring of the sea and the waves, men fainting with fear and with foreboding of what is coming on the world; for the powers of the heavens will be shaken.” - Luke 21:25-26

Our worries may affect your decision making. So,

• You stop eating chicken after you heard about bird flu. Pero pag “eat all you can” sa Max’s una ka sa pila.
• You avoided all flights since Malaysia Airlines MH370 went missing. Pero pag Piso fare puyat ka mag-intay sa website.
• You shun away from high rise buildings since the 911 incident. Pero pag andun ka na sa may building may selfie ka agad. Sayang naman e.
• You can’t sleep because Dr. Google says that the symptoms you have point to cancer. Baka ubo lang yan :)

Is worry really worth it?

• Forty (40) percent. That’s how much percentage of the things you worry about never happen. 
• Thirty (30) percent. Things in the past that can't be changed by all your worrying.
• And the real & legitimate worries are only eight (8) percent.

The Christian approach calls for total trust in God. 

Don’t WORRY, instead WORSHIP. Don’t PANIC, instead PRAY MORE. Don’t FEAR, instead be FAITHFUL!

“But watch at all times, praying that you may have strength to escape all these things that will take place, and to stand before the Son of man." - Luke 21:36

MAHAL KA NG DIYOS! That alone should remove all your fears. Because “there is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear.” (1 John 4:18). And God alone can give you that PERFECT love that you need.

May you have a blessed 1st Sunday of Advent! - alvinfabella@yahoo.com

#Advent2018

"HARI, POTTER"

a personal reflection on John 18:33-37 (November 25, 2018)

Pilate asked Jesus in John 18:33 “Are you the King of the Jews?"

Baka yan din ang tanong na dapat natin sagutin - “Are you the King?" Because sometimes we act like kings. We think that,

• ....we need to collect things because a king owns a lot. That’s materialism.
• ....we are always right because whatever a king declares is the law. That’s a narcissist.
• .....we are superior over others. That’s being egotistical.
• ....the world revolves around us. Bakit araw ka ba? 😁

Sino ba ang tunay na hari?

Jesus tells us in John 18:37, "You say that I am a king. For this I was born, and for this I have come into the world, to bear witness to the truth.”

What’s this truth that Jesus declare?

That God fulfills the promise He made to David in 2 Samuel 7:12 “When your days are fulfilled and you lie down with your fathers, I will raise up your offspring after you, who shall come forth from your body, and I will establish his kingdom.”

God always fulfills His promise. God was speaking about His Son Jesus in that verse. 

Pagkat SI KRISTO LANG ANG TUNAY NA HARI!

Anong ibig sabihin niyan?

We are all his subjects. God should reign in our lives not anything else. We should listen to Him because "every one who is of the truth hears my voice" (John 18:37). Let him mold you to what you were meant to be. Let Him mold you to be holy. Let His Church transform you into a saint!

Isaiah 64:8 declares "Yet, O LORD, you are our Father; we are the clay, and you are our potter; we are all the work of your hand."

Always remember that God is KING. God is the POTTER. We are only clay. May you have a blessed CHRIST THE KING Sunday! - alvinfabella@yahoo.com

PAALISIN ANG MGA SQUATTERS!

a personal reflection on today's Gospel Luke 19:45-48 (November 23, 2018)

Hindi po ito tungkol sa mga illegal settlers ng Metro Manila. I just want to use it as an analogy to present a point from today’s Gospel.

The gospel says that "Jesus entered the temple area & proceeded to drive out those who were selling things" (Luke 19:45). Wala ng tanong-tanong, action agad. He immediately drove them out. Bakit nga ba?

DAHIL ANG TEMPLO AY HINDI TIANGGE!

The traders did not respect the temple. They sold "oxen, sheep, and doves, as well as the money-changers seated there.” (John 2:14). Yes, they were traders but they were also illegal settlers in that place. Squatters. They did not belong in the temple. This is why Jesus drove them out. Wala silang "K" doon. Hindi sila nararapat doon.

Now, check this out. YOU TOO ARE GOD’S TEMPLE!

1 Corinthians 3:16 says "Do you not know that you are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwells in you?”

Reflect on this, if Jesus enters your heart today, what do you think will He find there? Do you also keep "illegal settlers”?

Anger, envy, lust, revenge, habitual sins or being unforgiving.

There are more of these "squatters" & they do not belong in your heart. Acknowledge them, yes. Accept that you will always experience or have them, yes. But not allow them to stay too long and prosper in your life. These squatters should not thrive within you. Get rid of them.

Start by saying this prayer with me.

Lord, my desire is that you occupy my life.
Invade my heart and every area of my life.
Cleanse me soul & make me holy.
Make me a loving person.
Make me the saint that you want me to be.

May you have a blessed & restful weekend! - alvinfabella@yahoo.com

SHORT KA BA?

a personal reflection on Luke 19:1-10 (November 20, 2018)

Kahit may kapangyarihan o kayamanan parang kulang pa rin. That’s how Zaccheus felt. That’s how most of us feel.

Zacchaeus had both power & money as Luke 19:2 says "he was a chief tax collector, and rich.” Yet, he felt a void in his life. Parang bitin. Maybe that's why we wanted to "see who Jesus was" (Luke 19:3).

Try lang. Baka Siya ang sagot. Baka Siya ang magpupuno kung ano man ang kulang.

Zacchaeus knew that he had to see Jesus but could not because "of the crowd” & "because he was small of stature.” (Luke 19:3)

• What is that “crowd” that is blocking you from seeing the Lord?
• More importantly, are you the “crowd” that is keeping the other “Zacchaeus” of this world from seeing Jesus?

These “Zachs” feel that they are short. Maybe they feel un-worthy. Maybe it’s because of their past. Maybe it’s because of sin. But aren’t we all "Zachs”? The bible says "all have sinned and are deprived of the glory of God." - Romans 3:23

What should we do then?

Luke 19:4 has the answer. It says "So he ran on ahead and climbed up into a sycamore tree to see him, for he was to pass that way."

1. Don’t let others block you from experiencing Jesus even if it requires you to run & climbed up. Be persistent!
2. Don’t be part of the “crowd”. Instead, be a sycamore tree and allow others to see Jesus!

May you have a blessed Tuesday! - alvinfabella@yahoo.com

"HUWAG NA TAYO MAGSIMBA!"

Why go to church when you can pray alone in your own room?

Oo nga naman. If God is everywhere & He is all powerful then He can hear my prayers wherever I am. True. So why don’t we just skip church & pray in our own houses. There is always a deeper reason to the things we do. We need to eat to live but should we just eat anything? There are a lot of reasons why we NEED go to Church. Here are my personal favorites.

Bakit ba dapat tayo mag-S-I-M-B-A? Dahil,

1. "S" -ABI NG DIYOS. If you're a true Christian then you follow whatever God says. Hebrews 10:25 says "We should not stay away from our assembly, as is the custom of some, but encourage one another.” The verse encourages us to always meet together because God says "where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them" (Matthew 18:20). If you are #Catholic, Jesus' TRUE PRESENCE is there in the Eucharist body, blood, soul & divinity. Remember, God did not write a single book during His earthly ministry. But He tells Peter that he "will build my Church" (Matthew 16:18) to guide His people. So ask yourself this question - if an imperfect man tells you not to go to Church but a perfect God tells you to go to Church, who should you follow? Remember "we must obey God rather than men" (Acts 5:29).
2. "I" - CANNOT DO IT ALONE. Mahirap maging kristiyano lalo na pag mag-isa ka. I realized that it is pride that kicks in whenever I think that I don't need God & the Church. Ironically, when you start to think that way that's exactly the moment when you need both God & Church more. You might ask "Why do I need the Church? I can read the bible & do self study?" I agree. Read the bible often, reflect on it & memorize the verses. But we still need the Church to teach us the right interpretation of the Word of God. The book of Acts says that "Philip ran up and heard him reading Isaiah the prophet and said, “Do you understand what you are reading?” He replied, “How can I, unless someone instructs me?” So he invited Philip to get in and sit with him.” (Acts 8:31). A modern tagline says "You don't need go to church, you are the church." True, we are the temple of God & the Holy Spirit dwells in us once we are baptized. But we cannot use "I am the church" as a reason for "not going to church”. If we are "the Church," then we should get together with fellow Christians regularly. You cannot "be the church" & "don’t go to church". Today, we have access to a lot of resources like books, podcasts, live streaming talks & Christian conferences. They will enhance our spiritual lives. Pero iba pa din ang pagsamba kasama ang ibang kristiyano. Nothing compares to worship done in the Church.
3. "M" -AKER OF SAINTS. You can say all you want about the defects of this institution but I think you have to agree with me when I declare this truth - THAT THE CHURCH HAS PRODUCED A LOT OF GOOD PEOPLE. The Church is a non-stop saint-making machine! Read the stories in the the bible about drunkards, prostitutes, tax collectors & other sinners who became holy. Lives were transformed. Marami pa din ang mga kwentong ganyan ngayon. Some of them have been declared as saints. But a lot of them are simple men & women who love & serve God & his people silently. You just have to look closer to meet people who changed their lives for God through His Church. It’s always easier to find the fault in anything or anybody. It’s harder to find the blessing. The early Christians met regularly. Read Acts 2:46 "Every day they devoted themselves to meeting together in the temple area and to breaking bread in their homes. They ate their meals with exultation and sincerity of heart,”. If going to Church was just a fad then why are Christians still doing it till now? There has to be something more in the Church than just being a 2,000 year old fad.
4. "B" -ODY OF BELIEVERS. What is the definition of a Church aside from a physical building or a religious service? Church refers to a particular Christian group. You need to be part of the Church. You cannot be a solo Christian. St. Paul compares loving the Church to a wedding. In Ephesians 5:25 it says "Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ loved the church and handed himself over for her.” Church & God are inseparable. You cannot say “I believe in God but I don’t want to go to Church.” Imagine a man declaring to his fiancee “I love you & I want to marry you BUT I don’t want to live with you.” That would be totally weird, right? That means you want the benefits of marriage but not the relationship. Ano ka suwerte? Ok, maybe your next concern is this - “I don’t want to go to Church because it’s filled with hypocrites!” Let's go back to the wedding analogy. When you marry someone, do you accept your spouse only? NO. You have to accept EVERYTHING about your partner. You accept your in-laws, the siblings of your spouse, their family traditions, their beliefs & even their family’s pet. Part of the Christian experience is having a relationship with fellowship believers. Even if you don’t like them. You attend Church not to notice the defects of the institution or those attending. You attend Church so you can see how good God is that despite the defects of everyone, including yourself, God chose to love all of us.
5. "A" -CCEPTANCE. We were designed for relationships. We need each other. Admit it or not, we have this desire to be accepted by others. This is why I love the Church. Because the Church is always open to accept everybody. Others say that the Church discriminates against “bad” people of our society. That’s totally wrong! Hindi lang mali, maling-mali! The Church will do whatever Jesus would do. Jesus accepted the adulterous woman but wanted her to change her ways. Jesus said to her “Neither do I condemn you. Go & from now on do not sin any more” (John 8:11). That's how the Church will treat anybody too. Do you want to feel accepted? Go to the nearest Church & feel God’s embrace in everything that’s in the Church.

There are more reasons why you should attend Church. Always remember that attending Church is not a burden but a blessing. Maybe you still have an excuse in your mind right now. "The traffic is terrible, it’s hot in Church, the sermon is boring, the music is old, etc. etc".

Recall what Jesus did for you.

Philippians 2:6-8 " ...though he was in the form of God, did not regard equality with God something to be grasped. Rather, he emptied himself, taking the form of a slave, coming in human likeness, and found human in appearance, he humbled himself, becoming obedient to death, even death on a cross."

How does your excuse compare to what Jesus did for you?

Tara na at tayo’y mag-S-I-M-B-A! Hope to see you in Church soon, fellow sinner. Be blessed! - alvinfabella@yahoo.com

"MAY BUKAS PA"

a personal reflection on today's Gospel Mark 13:24-32 (November 18, 2018)

Life is difficult. 

That's a fact. 

Problems are part of life. Baka katatapos mo pa lang sa isang problema, baka andyan pa ang problema mo o may parating pa lang na problema. 

It's a sad reality but we have to accept it. Here's the Good News. Lahat ng bagay sa mundong ito as lilipas. Mark 13:31 says "Heaven and earth will pass away"

Kasama na dyan ang mga problema mo. Lilipas din yan! Wag ka na ma-stress masyado.

The full verse of Mark 13:31 says "Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away." Ang Diyos as walang katapusan. He has no expiry. So, you have two choices. You either trust this world that will eventually end. Or you can trust God who created this world & will lasts forever.

This is why I love the traditional Jewish day. It starts from sunset instead of sunrise. Nagsisimula sa dilim pero kasunod ay liwanag. It teaches us to be hopeful. It inspires us to look forward to a brighter day.

KAYA KAHIT GAANO KADILIM ANG MUNDO MO NGAYON, MAY LIWANAG PA DIN NA PARATING.

Trust and believe in the true light of the world. Jesus says in John 8:12 "I am the light of the world; he who follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life."

May you have a blessed week! - alvinfabella@yahoo.com

"BARYA LANG PO SA UMAGA"

a personal reflection on Mark 12:38-44 (November 11, 2018)

It's always better to give than to receive. Alam natin lahat yan. St. Paul says that "each one must do as he has made up his mind, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver." (2 Corinthians 9:7). Maging masaya ka kung nakakapagbigay ka!

Madami sa atinn ang handang magbigay o tumulong. Pero iba-iba ang dahilan natin. What motivates your to give?

1. Do you GIVE-TO-GET?  St. Francis of Assisi says that "it is in giving that we receive." But we should remember that Christian giving is not a business transaction. Sana'y nagbibigay tayo bilang pasasalamat sa mga biyaya na galing sa Diyos. If you receive a blessing after giving something then be thankful. If you don't get anything in return, be thankful also. Because if you can afford to give then that means you are blessed.
2. Do you GIVE-FROM-EXCESS? In Mark 12:41".. the multitude putting money into the treasury. Many rich people put in large sums." Marami ang malaki mabigay pero malaki pa din naiiwan sa kanila. When it comes to Christian giving it's not how much you give but how much is left. The poor widow gave only a little but Jesus says she gave more. In Mark 12:43-44 Jesus says "Truly, I say to you, this poor widow has put in more than all those who are contributing to the treasury. For they all contributed out of their abundance; but she out of her poverty has put in everything she had, her whole living." 
3. Do you GIVE-YOUR-ALL? if you want to be a winner give your all in everything. Yan ang tatak ng tunay na champion - TODO BIGAY. Jesus calls you to make a choice. Its either you give 100% to Him or don’t be a Christian at all. Aim to give God your all. Why? Because He gave us His all.  Remember John 3:16, "For God so loved the world that he GAVE his only begotten Son". 

Give God the best & that means giving your life to Him in total surrender. May you have a blessed week! - alvinfabella@yahoo.com

MGA PANYERO

Sometimes when life is filled with TRIALS, we JUDGE God's action or lack of action. 

Are you GUILTY of this?
Then OVERRULE that mentality. Change your VERDICT. Instead of guilt, be excited to WITNESS God's coming miracle
That's the best REBUTTAL to anyone who says that God does not care.

Trials are part of life & everyone experiences it. No exemptions. So change your perspective about trials.

What’s the right attitude? Carry them. Carry your Cross & Follow Christ. Today’s Gospel says it clearly "Whoever does not bear his own cross and come after me, cannot be my disciple.” (Luke 14:27)

The NBA’s Philadelphia 76ers basketball slogan says "TRUST THE PROCESS”. God says the same to you today. Trust him, carry your trials and follow Jesus. Because trials are part of the process in becoming a saint someday. #Kapitlang mga kapatid!

Have a blessed Wednesday! - alvinfabella@yahoo.com

HELLO FUTURE SAINT!

Yes, ikaw nga. I'm talking to you. Today is the feast day of what you are meant to be. You were designed by God to be a saint.

That's kinda hard to believe right? Me, a saint? Every production batch has 'rejects'. Baka ako yun. If you feel too righteous you might say "I know someone who's part of the rejects."

Here's the truth - YOU ARE MEANT TO BE A SAINT. That's your destiny! You can't believe because the world, the devil & and your own self says otherwise. They tell you lies like,

1. "Ikaw? Saint? Impossible!" But GOD SAYS "With men this is impossible, but with God all things are possible." Matthew 19:26
2. "Ikaw? Santo? You're too weak to be one". But GOD SAYS " My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." 2 Corinthians 12:9
3. "Ikaw? Holy? Check your family tree. It's filled with sinners." Yes, our earthly family members are all sinners. We all are sinners. But GOD SAYS that we're also "all sons of God, through faith." Galatians 3:26. That means your have "holy" blood running on your veins.

So don't believe the lies. Believe the Word, the Word of God because that's the truth. Life is hard but we are called to persevere. Magtiyaga at magtiwala ka lang sa Kanya. Dahil sa dulo ng lahat ng ito ay may gantimpala na naghihintay para sa iyo.

"Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven" - Matthew 5:12a

Celebrate your destiny. Live to be a saint each day. Happy Feast day FUTURE SAINT! - alvinfabella@yahoo.com

"CLOSE-OPEN, CLOSE-OPEN"

a personal reflection on today's Gospel Mark 10:46-52 (October 28, 2018)

Kulang ang buhay pag wala ang Diyos. Because everyone needs God in their lives. They might not admit it. They might even deny God exists but deep in their hearts they are crying out "Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!" (Mark 10:47)

Sadly, we sometimes choose to CLOSE the door to those who are seeking. Maybe we are too righteous so we tend to shut the door on them. Like in Mark 10:48 ".. many rebuked him, telling him to be silent". We should be more OPEN so we can lead them to Christ. We encourage them to "take heart; rise, he is calling you." (Mark 10:49)

Buti pa nga ang bulag nakakakita! That's the scene in today's Gospel when Bartimaeus cried out "Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!" (Mark 10:47). He "saw" Jesus while others questioned if Jesus was the saviour.

That's faith! His eyes were CLOSED but his heart was OPEN for God. Because of his faith, Bartimaeus "saw" God. We don't see God because we are spiritually blind. What causes this blindness? Our very own M-A-T-A.

• M-ATERIALISM. When focus too much in material things we become too self-sufficient. Money becomes our security. "Ok lang huwag magsimba kasi may pera" becomes our mantra. That's the concern of rich young man in Matthew 19. He followed all the commandments but he could not let go of his possessions.
• A-CTIONLESS. When we fall into the sin of omission. When we become indifferent. Prayer coupled with action is what God teaches us. When Jesus heard Bartimaeus he immediatelty 'stopped and said, "Call him."' (Mark 10:49). That's love in action.
• T-HEOLOGY over CHARITY. Anesthesia is use to block us from physical pain. As Christian, we sometimes use "spiritual" anesthesia. Ano yun? When we use spiritual matters to block ourselves from helping others. The priest & the Levite in Luke 10 failed to help the man who was robbed because they prioritized their role in the temple. Let us follow the example of the Good Samaritan who took time to help out the man.
• A-KO MUNA SYNDROME. When we put our interests or problems above everything else. "Pag di umikot ang mundo sa akin ayoko na sa mundo!" John the Baptist said "He must increase, but I must decrease." (John 3:30). Jesus, hanging on the cross, did not focus on his condition. He ignored all the pain in HIS body so HE can talk to the robber & save him.

M-A-T-A. These four things make us blind. Be cautious about your M-A-T-A. Because when we are blind we cannot #ShareAboutJesus to everybody.

God asked Bartimaeus - “What do you want me to do for you?” Jesus is asking us the same today. Why don't we ask HIM also - "Lord, what do YOU want me to do for YOU?"

May you have a blessed week! - alvinfabella@yahoo.com

"WAG TAYONG PABIDA"

a personal reflection on the Gospel of Mark 10:35-45 for October 21, 2018

We all have a natural desire to be "Numero Uno". That's what this world encourages. Even the apostles, James & John, expressed this desire.

In Mark 10:37 they said to Jesus, "Grant us to sit, one at your right hand and one at your left, in your glory."
May good at bad point sa dialogue nila.

Here's the good point. The request showed that James & John truly believed that Jesus was the Top Guy, the Saviour, 2nd Person of the Trinity, The Word & other divine titles.

Here's the not so good point. They asked Jesus to share that distinction with them. They wanted to be credited as one of the top guys also.

Di ba ganyan din tayo? Ilang waiting shed ba ang nakita niyo na may nakasulat na

"THIS WAS DONATED BY MAYOR/CONGRESSMAN/ETC....."

Jesus warned them in Mark 10:38 - "You do not know what you are asking. Are you able to drink the chalice that I drink, or to be baptized with the baptism with which I am baptized?"

Then Jesus said to them "but to sit at my right hand or at my left is not mine to grant, but it is for those for whom it has been prepared." (Mark 10:40)

Simply put, Jesus was saying, "I am sorry but that position is RESERVED."

The next thing that happened was not good. Because after that conversation there was friction between James & John & the other apostles.

"And when the ten heard it, they began to be indignant at James and John." - Mark 10:41

My reflection on today's Gospel is this - GULO AT AWAY ANG NAIDUDULOT KAPAG INUNA NATIN ANG ATING SARILI.

What should be our focus instead? SERVE ONE ANOTHER. Para maging Numero Uno ka sa mata ng Panginoon magsilbi ka. We should SILENTLY serve one another. No billboards, no signs, no credit grabbing.

"But it shall not be so among you; but whoever would be great among you must be your servant, and whoever would be first among you must be slave of all." - Mark 10:43-44

Be like Jesus. Serve like Jesus.

"For the Son of man also came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many." - Mark 10:45

If we want our lives, our country & our world to be better we need to serve one another. May you have a blessed week! - alvinfabella@yahoo.com