Life in Jesus

For we who live are constantly being 

given up to death for the sake of Jesus, 

so that the life of Jesus 

may be manifested in our mortal flesh. 

(2 Corinthians 4:11) 

Our trials and sufferings can serve a greater purpose. It can be a way to reflect Christ’s sacrifice and resurrection, showing others the hope and power of the gospel. Our weaknesses are not something to hide but to embrace, as they highlight God’s power working through us. This teaches us humility and reliance on God rather than our own strength. Let us persevere through difficulties, knowing that God’s power sustains us. We are called to live selflessly, using our experiences to support and uplift those around us. Ultimately, our lives should point to God’s glory. Whether in times of joy or suffering, we can trust that God is using our circumstances to reveal His power and love.

In trials and sufferings, a purpose we find,

Reflecting Christ’s sacrifice, His love intertwined.

Through pain and sorrow, His hope we show,

The power of the gospel, in us, does grow.

Our weaknesses, not hidden, but embraced,

God’s power through us, in every space.

Humility and reliance, on Him we lean,

Not on our strength, but His unseen.

Persevering through difficulties, His power sustains,

In every storm, His love remains.

Called to live selflessly, to uplift and support,

Using our experiences, His grace we report.

Our lives, a testament to His glory and might,

In joy and suffering, His love shines bright.

Trusting in God, through every circumstance,

Revealing His power, in every chance.

Heavenly Father,

In our trials and sufferings, we seek Your greater purpose. May our lives reflect Christ’s sacrifice and resurrection, showing others the hope and power of the gospel. Help us to embrace our weaknesses, knowing they highlight Your power working through us.

Teach us humility and reliance on You, rather than our own strength. As we persevere through difficulties, remind us that Your power sustains us. Guide us to live selflessly, using our experiences to support and uplift those around us.

Ultimately, may our lives point to Your glory. In times of joy and suffering, we trust that You are using our circumstances to reveal Your power and love.

In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Pericope:

II: The Crisis between Paul and the Corinthians

THE PARADOX OF THE MINISTRY

2 Corinthians 4:7-18

First Reading | 2 Corinthians 4:7-15

7 Brothers and sisters: We hold this treasure in earthen vessels, that the surpassing power may be of God and not from us. 8 We are afflicted in every way, but not constrained; perplexed, but not driven to despair; 9 persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed; 10 always carrying about in the body the dying of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be manifested in our body. 11 For we who live are constantly being given up to death for the sake of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may be manifested in our mortal flesh. 12 So death is at work in us, but life in you. 13 Since, then, we have the same spirit of faith, according to what is written, I believed, therefore I spoke,we too believe and therefore speak, 14 knowing that the one who raised the Lord Jesus will raise us also with Jesus and place us with you in his presence. 15 Everything indeed is for you, so that the grace bestowed in abundance on more and more people may cause the thanksgiving to overflow for the glory of God. 

Background:

2 Corinthians 4:7-15 is a passage written by the Apostle Paul to the church in Corinth. This letter, known as 2 Corinthians, was written around AD 55/56 during Paul’s time in Macedonia. The central theme of this letter is the relationship between suffering and the power of the Spirit in Paul’s apostolic life, ministry, and message.

In 2 Corinthians 4:7-15, Paul uses the metaphor of “jars of clay” to describe believers. He emphasizes that the treasure of the gospel is held in fragile, human vessels to show that the surpassing power belongs to God and not to us. This passage highlights several key points:

Human Frailty and Divine Power: Paul contrasts the weakness of human beings with the power of God. Despite being “hard pressed on every side,” “perplexed,” “persecuted,” and “struck down,” believers are not crushed, in despair, abandoned, or destroyed because of God’s power at work within them.

Suffering and Resurrection: Paul explains that believers carry around in their bodies the death of Jesus so that the life of Jesus may also be revealed. This means that through their suffering, the life and power of Jesus are made manifest.

Purpose of Suffering: The suffering of believers serves a greater purpose. It works for the benefit of others and ultimately brings glory to God. Paul sees his own suffering as a way to bring life to others and to demonstrate the power of the gospel.

This passage encourages believers to remain steadfast in their faith, trusting that their trials and tribulations are part of God’s greater plan to reveal His glory and power through their lives.

Learning Lessons:

2 Corinthians 4:7-15 offers profound lessons that can be applied to our daily lives and spiritual journeys. 

Embrace Your Weaknesses: Paul reminds us that we are like “jars of clay,” fragile and imperfect. Our weaknesses are not something to hide but to embrace, as they highlight God’s power working through us. This teaches us humility and reliance on God rather than our own strength.

Persevere Through Trials: The passage speaks of being “hard pressed on every side,” “perplexed,” “persecuted,” and “struck down,” yet not crushed, in despair, abandoned, or destroyed. This encourages us to persevere through difficulties, knowing that God’s power sustains us.

Reflect Christ’s Suffering and Resurrection: By carrying the death of Jesus in our bodies, we also reveal His life. Our sufferings can be a way to reflect Christ’s sacrifice and resurrection, showing others the hope and power of the gospel.

Live for Others: Paul’s suffering was for the benefit of others, demonstrating that our trials can serve a greater purpose. We are called to live selflessly, using our experiences to support and uplift those around us.

Glorify God in All Circumstances: Ultimately, our lives should point to God’s glory. Whether in times of joy or suffering, we can trust that God is using our circumstances to reveal His power and love.

Reflection Source:

Conversation with Copilot

Living in God's Eternal Plan

God’s Eternal Plan

In the beginning, life was pure, 

God’s image in us, strong and sure. 

No sin, no death, no darkened stain, 

Just life and light, a perfect reign.

He crafted us with tender care, 

Each breath, each heartbeat, His love’s share. 

Not meant for death, nor for decay, 

But to flourish in His way.

Life, so precious, sacred, bright, 

Meant to shine with holy light. 

In His will, we find our place, 

Living fully by His grace.

Though sin and death may cast their shade, 

God’s love and grace will never fade. 

His victory over death is clear, 

In His embrace, we have no fear.

So let us walk in righteousness, 

With hearts of love and faithfulness. 

For in His plan, eternally, 

We find our true identity.

Pursue the path of integrity, 

In harmony with His decree. 

For life aligned with God’s own will, 

Is life eternal, peaceful, still.

REFLECTION:

God formed man to be imperishable; the image of his own nature he made him. (Wisdom 2:23)

God’s original plan for humanity is one of life and incorruption and made them in His image. Sin and death are not part of God’s original plan for humanity. He did not create death and does not delight in the destruction of the living. Everything He created is meant to exist and flourish. Life is precious and sacred, and that God’s intention is for us to live fully and righteously.

Living a life aligned with God’s will leads to eternal life. Despite the presence of sin and death, we are reminded of God’s ultimate victory over these forces through His love and grace. Let us pursue righteousness and integrity in all our actions, knowing that such a life is in harmony with God’s eternal plan.

Heavenly Father,

We come before You with grateful hearts, acknowledging Your original plan for humanity—a plan of life, incorruption, and divine image. We thank You for creating us in Your likeness, for life that is precious and sacred.

Lord, we recognize that sin and death were never part of Your design. You did not create death, nor do You delight in the destruction of the living. Everything You made is meant to exist and flourish, reflecting Your glory and love.

Help us, Father, to live fully and righteously, aligning our lives with Your will. Guide us to pursue righteousness and integrity in all our actions, knowing that such a life is in harmony with Your eternal plan.

Despite the presence of sin and death in this world, we are reminded of Your ultimate victory over these forces through Your love and grace. Strengthen our faith, Lord, and help us to trust in Your divine plan.

May we always seek to live in a way that honors You, embracing the life You have given us and striving to reflect Your image in all we do. Let our lives be a testament to Your love and a beacon of hope to others.

In Jesus’ name, we pray.

Amen.

Pericope:

I. The Reward of Justice

EXHORTATION TO JUSTICE / THE KEY TO LIFE

Wisdom 1:1-15 / 2:1-24

First Reading | Wisdom 1:13-15; 2:23-24

13 God did not make death, nor does he rejoice in the destruction of the living. 14 For he fashioned all things that they might have being; and the creatures of the world are wholesome, and there is not a destructive drug among them nor any domain of the netherworld on earth, 15 for justice is undying. 2:23 For God formed man to be imperishable; the image of his own nature he made him. 24 But by the envy of the devil, death entered the world, and they who are in his possession experience it. 

Background:

The passages from the Book of Wisdom (Wisdom 1:13-15; 2:23-24) offer profound insights into the nature of life, death, and God’s intentions for humanity. Here’s a brief background:

Context and Authorship

The Book of Wisdom, also known as the Wisdom of Solomon, is part of the Apocrypha, a collection of ancient texts included in some Christian Bibles but not in the Hebrew Bible. Although traditionally attributed to King Solomon, it was likely written by an anonymous Hellenistic Jew in the late first century BCE or early first century CE. The author aimed to demonstrate the superiority of Jewish wisdom in a context familiar with Greek philosophy.

Key Themes

God’s Creation and Life: Wisdom 1:13-15 emphasizes that God did not create death and does not delight in the destruction of the living. Instead, everything God created is meant to exist and flourish. This passage highlights the inherent goodness and purpose of creation, affirming that righteousness is immortal.

Human Destiny and the Fall: Wisdom 2:23-24 explains that God created humans for incorruption and made them in His image. However, through the envy of the devil, death entered the world, and those who belong to the devil’s company experience it. This reflects the belief that sin and death are not part of God’s original plan but are consequences of turning away from Him.

Relevance and Application

These verses provide comfort and hope, especially during challenging times. They remind believers that God is the author of life and goodness, and that death and destruction are contrary to His will. This understanding encourages a life of righteousness and faithfulness, trusting in God’s eternal plan and sovereignty.

Learning Lessons:

The passages from Wisdom 1:13-15 and 2:23-24 offer profound lessons that can deeply enrich our spiritual journey. Here are some key takeaways:

1. God as the Author of Life. Wisdom 1:13-15 teaches us that God did not create death and does not delight in the destruction of the living. Everything He created is meant to exist and flourish. This reminds us that life is precious and sacred, and that God’s intention is for us to live fully and righteously.

2. The Nature of Righteousness. The passage emphasizes that righteousness is immortal. Living a life aligned with God’s will leads to eternal life. This encourages us to pursue righteousness and integrity in all our actions, knowing that such a life is in harmony with God’s eternal plan.

3. The Origin of Death and Sin. Wisdom 2:23-24 explains that God created humans for incorruption and made them in His image. However, through the envy of the devil, death entered the world. This highlights the spiritual battle between good and evil and reminds us that sin and death are not part of God’s original plan for humanity.

4. Hope and Redemption. These verses offer hope by affirming that God’s original plan for humanity is one of life and incorruption. Despite the presence of sin and death, we are reminded of God’s ultimate victory over these forces through His love and grace.

Practical Applications

Embrace Life: Cherish and respect the life God has given you. Engage in activities that promote life and well-being.

Pursue Righteousness: Strive to live a life of integrity and righteousness, knowing that it aligns with God’s eternal plan.

Resist Temptation: Be aware of the spiritual battle and resist the temptations that lead to sin and death.

Hold on to Hope: In times of difficulty, remember that God’s plan is for life and incorruption. Trust in His love and grace to guide you through.

Reflection Source:

Conversation with Copilot

Your Light Must Shine Before Others

 "Just so, your light must shine before others, 

that they may see your good deeds and glorify your heavenly Father.” 

MATTHEW 5 : 16

Your ways O Lord, make known to me. Let the light of Your countenance shine upon us! (Psalm 4:7)

LORD, for every good work, I humbly offer You back all the glory and praise. None of these can ever be possible without Your light of life and love. 

What really brings much joy to me is to see that my love ones most especially my family are happy to receive the good works that You have done in me. 

May You continue to shower us with the abundance of Your grace and blessings so that we may continue to live for the praise and glory of Your Name. 

All these I humbly ask and pray in Jesus Name. Amen.

Published:

June 07, 2023, 6:24 AM

Called Out of Darkness into His Wonderful Light

Just as newborns crave for milk, pure and sweet,

We yearn for God's Word, our spiritual treat.

Reading, studying, meditating, day and night,

Growing in faith, in God's holy light.

Living stones we are, uniquely made,

Into a spiritual house, carefully laid.

Though diverse we are, in unity we stand,

Part of Christ's body, guided by His hand.

Set apart for service, in God's grand plan,

Our identity in Christ, part of His clan.

To represent Him in this world, wide and vast,

Proclaiming His excellencies, first and last.

Sinful desires wage war, against our soul,

Self-control, discipline, make us whole.

Relying on God's grace, in our pursuit of holiness,

Living out our faith, in humble gentleness.

Not just words, but actions speak,

Of God's love, to the strong and the weak.

The impact of our conduct, a beacon so bright,

Guiding others to perceive God's light.

REFLECTION:

You are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people of his own, so that you may announce the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. (1 Peter 2:9)

Just as newborn babies crave milk, we should have a strong desire for the pure spiritual milk of God’s Word by regularly reading, studying, and meditating on the Bible to grow in our faith and understanding of God. 

We are living stones being built into a spiritual house. Each of us, though individually unique and valuable, are part of a larger spiritual structure where unity in diversity exists within the one body of Christ. 

Set apart for God’s service, our identity in Christ and our mission is to represent Him in the world, to proclaim His excellencies and live according to His will. 

Let us abstain from sinful desires that wage war against our soul by way of self-control, discipline, and reliance on God’s grace in our pursuit of holiness and live out our faith through actions, not just words, and the potential impact of our conduct on others’ perception of God.

Dear Heavenly Father,

Just as newborn babies crave milk, we pray for a strong desire for the pure spiritual milk of Your Word. May we commit to regularly reading, studying, and meditating on the Bible to grow in our faith and deepen our understanding of You.

As living stones being built into a spiritual house, remind us that each of us, though individually unique and valuable, are part of a larger spiritual structure. Help us to foster unity in diversity within the one body of Christ.

Set apart for Your service, we acknowledge our identity in Christ and our mission to represent You in the world. Empower us to proclaim Your excellencies and live according to Your will.

We pray for the strength to abstain from sinful desires that wage war against our soul. Grant us self-control, discipline, and a reliance on Your grace in our pursuit of holiness.

Help us to live out our faith through actions, not just words, and may the potential impact of our conduct lead others to a better perception of You.

In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

Pericope:

III: The Christian in a Hostile World / II: The Gift and Call of God in Baptism

GOD'S HOUSE AND PEOPLE / CHRISTIAN EXAMPLES

1 Peter 2:1-10 / 11-12

First Reading | 1 Peter 2:2-5, 9-12

2 Beloved: Like newborn infants, long for pure spiritual milk so that through it you may grow into salvation, 3 for you have tasted that the Lord is good. 4 Come to him, a living stone, rejected by human beings but chosen and precious in the sight of God, 5 and, like living stones, let yourselves be built into a spiritual house to be a holy priesthood to offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. 9 You are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people of his own, so that you may announce the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. 10 Once you were no people but now you are God’s people; you had not received mercy but now you have received mercy. 11 Beloved, I urge you as aliens and sojourners to keep away from worldly desires that wage war against the soul. 12 Maintain good conduct among the Gentiles, so that if they speak of you as evildoers, they may observe your good works and glorify God on the day of visitation. 

Background:

The book of 1 Peter was written by the apostle Peter, who was once a fisherman but became a disciple and a “witness of the sufferings of Christ” (1 Peter 5:1). The letter was likely written from Rome (referred to as “Babylon”) around AD 62–63 during Nero’s reign. It is addressed to Christians scattered in “Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia”, areas north of the Taurus Mountains in Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey).

The main theme of the book is that those who persevere in faith while suffering persecution should be full of hope. They will certainly enjoy end-time salvation, since they already enjoy God’s saving promises through Christ’s death and resurrection. Peter wrote this letter to encourage his readers to endure suffering and persecution by giving themselves entirely to God. They are to remain faithful in times of distress, knowing that God will vindicate them and that they will certainly enjoy the salvation that the Lord has promised.

In Chapter 2, Peter paints a metaphor of believers as living stones, being built into a spiritual house for a holy priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices through Jesus Christ. He references Old Testament prophecies to describe Jesus as the cornerstone, precious to those who believe, but a stumbling block to those who do not. This chapter is filled with allusions to Isaiah 53 as Peter describes the redemptive suffering of Christ.

The specific verses you mentioned (1 Peter 2:2-5, 9-12) emphasize the growth of believers through the word of God, their role as a holy priesthood, and their conduct among the Gentiles. The believers are urged to desire the pure milk of the word, that they may grow thereby. They are described as living stones being built up into a spiritual house. The believers are also called a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, and God’s own special people. They are encouraged to abstain from fleshly lusts and to have honorable conduct among the Gentiles.

Learning Lessons:

Certainly, these verses from 1 Peter 2:2-5, 9-12 offer several spiritual lessons for believers:

Desire for God’s Word (1 Peter 2:2): Just as newborn babies crave milk, believers should have a strong desire for the pure spiritual milk of God’s Word. This verse teaches us about the importance of regularly reading, studying, and meditating on the Bible to grow in our faith and understanding of God.

Living Stones and Spiritual House (1 Peter 2:4-5): Believers are described as living stones being built into a spiritual house. This metaphor emphasizes that each believer, though individually unique and valuable, is part of a larger spiritual structure. It teaches us about unity in diversity within the body of Christ and the importance of community in our spiritual journey.

Royal Priesthood and Holy Nation (1 Peter 2:9): As believers, we are called to be a royal priesthood and a holy nation. This means we are set apart for God’s service, to proclaim His excellencies and live according to His will. It’s a reminder of our identity in Christ and our mission to represent Him in the world.

Abstaining from Sinful Desires (1 Peter 2:11): Peter urges believers to abstain from sinful desires that wage war against the soul. This teaches us about the ongoing struggle with sin and the need for self-control, discipline, and reliance on God’s grace in our pursuit of holiness.

Honorable Conduct (1 Peter 2:12): Believers are encouraged to maintain good conduct among non-believers, so that even if they speak against them, they may see their good deeds and glorify God. This verse underscores the importance of living out our faith through actions, not just words, and the potential impact of our conduct on others’ perception of God.

These lessons remind us of the transformative power of God’s Word, our identity and purpose in Christ, and the importance of personal holiness and godly conduct. They encourage us to pursue spiritual growth, community, service, and witness as integral aspects of our Christian walk.  (Conversation with Copilot)

Receive Your Sight

"Receive your sight; 

your faith has made you well."

LUKE 18:42

These words resonate with hope and healing. They evoke a moment when darkness gives way to light, when clarity pierces through obscurity. Imagine standing on the threshold of sight, the world unfolding before you in vivid detail.

In this simple phrase, there lies a profound invitation—to open our eyes, not merely in the physical sense, but to perceive life’s deeper truths. Perhaps it’s an inner awakening, a revelation that transcends the ordinary.

May we all receive our own moments of sight—whether through faith, compassion, or self-discovery.  (Microsoft Bing)

As He drew near to Jericho, a blind man was sitting by the roadside begging; and hearing a multitude going by, he inquired what this meant. They told him, "Jesus of Nazareth is passing by." And he cried, "Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!" And those who were in front rebuked him, telling him to be silent; but he cried out all the more, "Son of David, have mercy on me!" And Jesus stopped, and commanded him to be brought to him; and when he came near, he asked him, "What do you want me to do for you?" He said, "Lord, let me receive my sight." And Jesus said to him, "Receive your sight; your faith has made you well." And immediately he received his sight and followed him, glorifying God; and all the people, when they saw it, gave praise to God. (Luke 18:35-43)

Lord Jesus, only You can open my eyes and show me the way towards the fulfillment of my heart desires. Thank You so much Lord for always guiding me towards the right way. 

I believed in faith that those that I cannot see will be brought to light by You who alone knows what is best for me. All I have to do is follow You all the way. Please forgive me for the countless times I have been blind to see the truth. Times when I chose to set my sight on other things that made me sin. Have mercy on me and let me see you clearly in my heart, in my mind, in my body and in my soul. May Your love and mercy reach its fullness in me so that my joy will be made full and complete. 

You alone can make me clean from inside and out and I need You to be my strenght and shield against anything that would lead me to sin. I am helpless without You for you are everything to me. You know my thoughts and deeds and I lift them all to You. I humbly surrender everything to You my Lord, use me for the greater glory and praise of the Father. 

In a very special way, I also pray for all those who are still living in darkness, those who think that they can do things without You, and those who are in dire need of hope to see the light and  bright future. Make them see the truth that only You are the way and solution to all their problems and concerns. 

You have opened my eyes to see the wonders of Your love. Truly, I am helpless and blind without You and only You can bring light to the fulfillment of all my dreams and aspirations. Please accept my humble offering of praise and thanksgiving for providing all the things that are needed in order to bring color and brightness to our home. Truly, Your love for us knows no bounds and only You can make us live joyfully each moment of our lives. 

With much love and thanksgiving, I pray. Amen.

Pericope:

V: The Journey to Jerusalem: Luke's Travel Narrative

THE HEALING OF THE BLIND BEGGAR

Luke 18:35-43

Walk in the Light of the Lord's Countenance

Blessed the people who know the joyful shout; 

in the light of your countenance, O Lord, they walk.

PSALM 89 : 16

Father in heaven, in the light of Your countenance, O Lord, I walk. Praise be to You O God for not looking upon my sins but on Your great and unconditional love for me.

Today, I humbly ask and pray for Your grace and wisdom regarding my faulty behavior, pride bearing, and self-control. Help me dear Lord to live a live that is worthy of You. Maintain in me the value of humility and simplicity yet full of peace and prosperity. Let Your face through Christ Your Son shine upon me for the praise and glory of Your Name. It is not about me but it is all about You.

As always, hold us all together. Keep us all together, and keep us all under Your full guidance and control. Do not allow us to be lost and go astray. Please protect us from any form of harm and evil that my come our way.

All these I humbly ask and pray in Jesus Name. Amen.

DUTY TO LIVE IN THE LIGHT

 8  You were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light, 9 for light produces every kind of goodness and righteousness and truth. 

10 Try to learn what is pleasing to the Lord. 11 Take no part in the fruitless works of darkness; rather expose them, 12 for it is shameful even to mention the things done by them in secret; 13 but everything exposed by the light becomes visible, 14 for everything that becomes visible is light. 

Therefore, it says: “Awake, O sleeper, and arise from the dead, and Christ will give you light.”

Pericope:

IV: Daily Conduct, and Expression of Unity - Ephesians 5:8-14