My beloved sisters and brothers,
Praise to you Lord Jesus Christ!
As you know, there were calamities that happened in our world especially this week – wildfires, flash floods, severe storms, droughts, tropical cyclones, and earthquakes. The latest one was a powerful 6.9 magnitude earthquake in the central Philippines that killed an estimated 70 people and injured hundreds. Thus, I ask you my brethren to pray for the victims, and may their faith be strengthened with hope, knowing that God’s enduring love and mercy amidst disaster be with them. And also include in your prayers eternal rest for those who perished, healing for those who were injured, comfort for the grieving and guidance for rescuers. As people of God we are one with these people in prayer, trusting in God who is our constant source of strength and our refuge.
Our readings this weekend talk about faith and remind us about the gifts that God has given us, which is “a spirit of power, of love, and self-discipline.” Jesus taught us not to be ashamed of our tiny amount of faith for even it is powerful enough to accomplish what seems impossible, using an example of a mustard seed-sized faith being able to uproot and plant a mulberry tree into the sea.
So, my brothers and sisters, Jesus encourages us to express our faith through action such as prayer and obedience to God’s commandments. Relying on God’s strength and not our own for a small amount of sincere faith is more than enough to overcome any challenges and trials in life, so have faith in God. “The word of the Lord endures forever; that word is the good news announced to you.” (1 Peter 1: 25)
Amen
God Loves You! ~ Fr. NEIL