Small Things With Great Love

Twenty-ninth Sunday in Ordinary Time
October 20, 2024 — Year B
Readings: Is 53:10-11 / Ps 33 / Heb 4:14-16 / Mk 10:35-45 
by Rev. Nixon Negparanon, Pastor

The readings for this Sunday, the 29th Sunday in Ordinary Time, show us a common theme of sacrificial service and humility as the path to true greatness.  The readings together point to the idea that true greatness and leadership in God’s eyes are marked by humility, compassion, and willingness to sacrifice for the good of others.  The past few Sundays’ gospel readings from Mark and our reflections have gradually developed a consistent theme:  discipleship, humility, and the course of following Jesus.

When you watch a TV series, before the start of the show, you will see a brief recap of the previous episodes.  So, allow me to give you a brief recap of the recent Sundays, and how they connect to this Sunday.

On the 27^th Sunday, Jesus spoke about the sanctity of marriage and welcomed children, emphasizing the need for humility and dependence on God, like a child.  The readings highlighted humility, particularly in terms of recognizing our need for God and others, the openness and trust seen in children, and the servant-hearted attitude that Jesus speaks about this Sunday.

On the 28^th Sunday, Jesus encounters the rich young man and teaches about the challenges of wealth in following Him, saying, “Go.  Sell what you have and give to the poor.”  The focus is on detachment and radical discipleship, putting God first above all possessions.  The theme of detachment continues, as Jesus calls His disciples to detach themselves from the culture of royalty and fame.

Today, the theme culminates in Jesus’ teaching on servant leadership.  The disciples, particularly James and John, are still thinking in terms of worldly power and honor.  Jesus redirects them to understand that His mission and kingdom are based on humility and self-giving love.

Over the past few weeks, Jesus has been preparing His disciples to embrace a life of humility and service, warning them against attachments to wealth, status, or power.  Today’s teaching makes this call really clear and definite.  True greatness in the kingdom is found in becoming a servant, even to the point of sacrifice.

In today’s gospel, we witness an audacious request from the apostles, James and John.  They ask Jesus for positions of honor in His glory.  They want to be seated at His right and left, envisioning power and prominence in a kingdom they imagine Jesus will soon come to reign.  The request shows their misunderstanding of what Jesus is about to accomplish.  They are still thinking in worldly terms of greatness and power, while Jesus is about to demonstrate that His kingdom operates on an entirely different foundation:  self-sacrifice and service.

Jesus responds to the request with a profound lesson: “Whoever wishes to be great among you will be your servant.  Whoever wishes to be first among you will be the slave of all.”  (Mark 10: 43-44) This teaching flips our understanding of greatness upside down.  Instead of power and control, Jesus tells us that true greatness is found in humility and in serving others.

This message is reinforced by our first reading, from the prophet Isaiah, which speaks of the suffering servant, who, through his suffering and offering his life, brings healing and salvation to many.  “By suffering, My servant shall justify many.”  (Isaiah 53:11) Jesus embodies this prophecy. He is the suffering servant who gives his life as a ransom for many, showing us that love reaches its fullest expression in sacrifice.

Our second reading reminds us of the compassionate nature of Jesus as our high priest.  “We do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who has similarly been tested in every way.”  (Hebrews 4:15) Jesus is not distant or aloof from our human condition.  He knows our struggles and our sufferings because He has experienced them Himself.  He knows the cost of service and the pain of sacrifice.

I’d like to quote what Mother Teresa said, which perfectly captures this spirit of humble service and love.  “Not all of us can do great things, but we can do small things with great love.”

In our lives, we may not be called to the kind of great sacrifice that Jesus made on the cross, but we are called to serve in small ways with love and humility.  It is in these small acts of kindness:  listening to someone in pain, comforting a friend, caring for the needy, that we participate in Christ’s mission of love.

The apostles wanted greatness, but Jesus shows them that greatness is not about status or recognition.  It is about serving others without counting the cost.  This call to service is not limited to extraordinary moments or grand gestures; it is lived out in the everyday moments of our lives, when we choose to put others before ourselves, when we act with compassion, and when we seek to love as Christ has loved us.

So, the question for us today is:  How can we live out this call to service in our own lives?  First, we must remember that Jesus calls us to humility.  This means recognizing that we are not above anyone, whether it is your family, friends, or strangers.  We are called to serve them, as Jesus serves.  We can begin by asking ourselves:  How can I serve the people around me?  What small acts of kindness can I offer today?

Second, we can imitate Jesus in His compassion.  As the letter to the Hebrews tells us, Jesus sympathizes with our weaknesses, because He understands them.  In our interactions with others, we should strive to be compassionate and understanding, recognizing that everyone is carrying their own burdens.  Compassion begins by listening and by being present to those who are suffering or in need.

Lastly, let us humbly embrace the opportunities to sacrifice.  Sacrifice doesn’t always mean giving up something big.  It often means putting aside our own desires for the sake of others.  It means being patient when it is difficult, forgiving when it’s painful, and loving when it’s inconvenient.  In a world that celebrates individualism and self-promotion, Jesus invites us to embrace a different kind of greatness, one that is grounded in love, service, and humility.  As we go forth today, may we take to heart His words: “The Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many.”  (Mark 10:45) Let us live this call in our lives, doing small things with great love, knowing that in God’s eyes, they are truly great things.

True Wealth

Twenty-eighth Sunday in Ordinary Time
October 13, 2024 — Year B
Readings: Wis 7:7-11 / Ps 90 / Heb 4:12-13 / Mk 17-30
by Rev. Nixon Negparanon, Pastor

Today’s readings invite us to reflect on the deep and challenging call to follow Christ, especially when it comes to the things we value most in life.

We begin with the first reading, from the book of Wisdom, where King Solomon prays for wisdom.  He says, “I prayed, and prudence was given me.  I pleaded and the spirit of wisdom came to me.  I preferred her to scepter and throne.” (Wis 7:7-8)

Solomon, though a king with great wealth, acknowledges that true wisdom is far more valuable than gold or riches.  It is wisdom that leads us to God and guides our decisions toward the ultimate good.

The second reading, from Paul’s letter to the Hebrews, also emphasizes the power of God’s word: “Indeed, the word of God is living and effective, sharper than any two-edged sword.” (Hebrews 4:12) God’s word penetrates our hearts, revealing our deepest desires, intentions, and motivations.  It uncovers what is truly important and what might be holding us back from fully embracing the Gospel.  It is a call to introspection and transformation.

In today’s gospel from Mark, we encounter the story of the rich young man who approaches Jesus and asks, “Good teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?” (Mk 10:17) Jesus responds by listing the commandments, but the young man, who has kept these from his youth, still senses that something is lacking.  Jesus tells him, “Go. Sell what you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven.  Then come follow Me.”  (Mk 10:21) This invitation is too difficult for the young man, who leaves in sorrow because he had many possessions.

This gospel challenges us to ask ourselves, what do we truly value in life?  Are there things, relationships, or ambitions that we are holding onto more tightly than our relationship with Christ?  Jesus’ invitation to the rich young man is not about condemning wealth or success, but about removing whatever obstacle that prevents us from fully following Him.  For some, it might be wealth, but for others, it might be pride, ambition, or even fear of change.

Pope Francis, in his Apostolic Exhortation, “Evangelii Gaudium,” speaks to this directly: “The joy of the gospel fills the hearts and lives of all who encounter Jesus…a joy ever new, a joy which is shared.”  The young man in the gospel did not experience this joy because his heart was weighed down by his possessions.  Pope Francis reminds us that true joy, lasting joy, comes only when we are willing to let go of our attachments and follow Jesus with a free and open heart.

An Argentinian entrepreneur, Enrique Shaw, who is on the path to sainthood, exemplifies how one can balance wealth with a deep commitment to faith and social responsibility.  Shaw was a successful businessman, but he did not let his prosperity distance him from the needs of his workers or his faith.  He founded a Christian workers association promoting fair wages and showed he cared deeply for the wellbeing of his employees.  During a financial crisis, instead of laying off his workers, he found ways to keep them employed, showing that his wealth was a means to serve others rather than serving himself.

Shaw’s life echoes the message of the gospel.  True wealth is found in following Christ and using what we have to serve others.  Like the rich young man, we are invited to examine our attachment to material things and ask whether we can let them go to follow Christ more fully.  Unlike the young man, Shaw shows us that it is possible to live generously, using our resources to reflect God’s love in the world.

In both the gospel and Shaw’s example, we see that it is not the possession of wealth, but how we use it and what we prioritize, that defines our discipleship.  Jesus calls us to place our trust, not in earthly treasures, but in the promise of eternal life.

Our readings today first remind us that we must seek wisdom like Solomon.  We should pray for the wisdom to discern what is truly important in our lives.  In a world that constantly pushes us toward material success and fleeting pleasures, we need wisdom to choose what is eternal, to value relationships over riches, and to seek God’s will above all else.

Second, we need to examine our attachments.  Are there things that we hold dear that might be hindering our relationship with God?  This could be our career, our possessions, our status, or even our comfort zones.  Jesus challenges us, like the rich young man, to let go of whatever prevents us from fully embracing the Gospel.

Furthermore, we are called to share our blessings.  Jesus’ invitation to give to the poor is a reminder that the blessings we have received are not meant to be hoarded but shared.  Whether it is material wealth, time, or talents, we are called to be generous and to use what we have to serve others, especially the poor and marginalized.

Finally, we must respond with joy.  The joy of the Gospel is something we are called to live and share.  When we place our trust in God and follow Christ, we experience a deep and lasting joy that no material possession can provide.  It is the joy of knowing that we are loved by God and that we are living out His plan for our lives.

Saint Padre Pio said, “In our spiritual life, he who does not advance goes backward.  It happens, as with a boat, which always must go ahead.  If it stands still, the wind will blow it back.”  This statement powerfully complements the message from today’s readings, emphasizing the necessity of continual growth in our relationship with God.  When we remain stagnant in our faith, we avoid that necessary challenge.  The rich young man was living a comfortable faith, but Jesus called him to something deeper.  Padre Pio’s words remind us that there is no neutral ground in our spiritual life.  We are either progressing toward God or being pushed backward by the forces of complacency, fear, and attachment.

In our lives, this means daily striving to deepen our relationship with Christ, continuously letting go of whatever holds us back and trusting in God’s wisdom to guide us forward.  If we do not advance, the spiritual whims of destruction, temptation, or worldly attachments will slowly pull us away from the path to eternal life.  Just as a boat must constantly move against the current, so too, must we always seek to grow closer to God.

As we reflect on today’s readings, let us ask for the grace to seek true wisdom, to examine our attachments, to be generous with our blessings, and to follow Christ with joyful hearts.  May we, unlike the rich young man, accept the Lord’s invitation with faith and courage, trusting that the treasure He offers us in heaven is far greater than anything this world can give.

Eucharistic Revival – Spiritual Sustenance

Twentieth Sunday in Ordinary Time
August 18, 2024 — Year B
Readings: Prv 9:1-6 / Ps 34 / Eph 5:15-20 / Jn 6:51-58
by Rev. Nixon Negparanon, Pastor

In today’s readings we are invited to a feast: a feast of wisdom, a feast of the spirit, and most profoundly, a feast of light itself in the Eucharist. The theme running through the scriptures is nourishment: not just physical but spiritual, and the choices we make in seeking what truly sustains us.

Our first reading opens with the image of Wisdom, personified as a woman who has prepared a great banquet. She calls out to the simple, the unwise, inviting them to leave behind their foolish ways and dine at her table. This invitation is an echo of something deeper, an invitation to a life that is not merely about survival, but about living with purpose, intention, and understanding.

In his letter to the Ephesians, Saint Paul warns us to live wisely, to make the most of our time, and to be filled with the Spirit rather than indulging in things that dull our senses or lead us astray. This call to wisdom is a call to discernment, to constantly seek what is good, true, and life giving.

Then we come to our gospel from John, where Jesus offers us the ultimate sustenance, Himself. “I am the bread that came down from Heaven,” He says. Here, Jesus is not just offering us wisdom or spiritual insight; He is offering us His very self.

The Eucharist, this Bread of Life, is not a symbol, it is Christ Himself we receive to nourish our souls. When Jesus speaks of giving His flesh for the life of the world, He’s not talking about a symbolic gesture, He’s pointing directly to the Eucharist, the sacrament in which we participate in His sacrifice, and receive His very body and blood. This is not merely a ritual or a remembrance, but a true encounter with Christ himself.

Through the Eucharist, we are invited to share in the divine life to be united intimately with Jesus. The words of Jesus, “Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life,” reminds us that the Eucharist is not a one-time event; it is a continuous invitation to live in communion with Him. Each time we receive the Eucharist, we are nourished spiritually, strengthened in our faith, and reminded of our call to live as disciples.

This passage also challenges us to reflect on the mystery of the Eucharist. How often do we approach the altar with full awareness of the incredible gift we are about to receive? Do we truly understand that in the Eucharist, we are not just receiving bread and wine, but the very life of Christ? Saint Augustine once said, “Our hearts are restless until they rest in you, O Lord.” This restlessness often drives us to seek fulfillment in all the wrong places through material wealth, fleeting pleasures, or the pursuit of success at the expense of our relationships. But today’s readings remind us that true fulfillment comes from feeding on the wisdom of God, living in the Spirit, and most importantly, receiving the bread of life in the Eucharist.

Let me share with you the inspiring story of a young Italian woman who exemplified what it means to live wisely and in the Spirit. Chiara faced immense challenges during her life, including the loss of two children shortly after their births. Despite these hardships, Chiara and her husband Enrico continued to trust in God’s plan. When Chiara became pregnant with her third child, she was diagnosed with an aggressive form of cancer. Choosing to postpone her treatment to protect her unborn son, she lived her final months fully aware of the consequences but filled with peace and joy in the Lord. She often said, “We are born to die, but we die to be born again into eternal life.”

Chiara died at noon on June 13, 2012, after she said her goodbyes to her family and friends. One by one, she told everyone, “I love you.” On July 2, 2018, her beatification process was opened in Rome, naming Chiara Corbella Petrillo as a servant of God.

Chiara’s life is a testament to living out the wisdom of God, even in the face of suffering. She chose the bread of life over everything else, prioritizing her spiritual nourishment and trusting completely in God’s love. Her story challenges us to examine our own lives and the choices we make. Are we living wisely, making the most of the time we have, and seeking the true sustenance that only Christ can provide? In our modern world we are constantly tempted by things that offer temporary satisfaction but leave us spiritually hungry. But like Chiara, we are called to seek what sustains us.

When we prioritize our spiritual nourishment by spending time in prayer, immersing ourselves in scripture, and regularly participating in the Eucharist, we align ourselves with the wisdom of God.

There are a lot of distractions nowadays. It is easy to neglect our spiritual lives. Just as we need physical food to sustain our bodies, we need spiritual nourishment to sustain our souls. This means making time for prayer, reading scripture, and participating in the Eucharist regularly. Let us set aside specific times each day for prayer and reflection. Attend mass, not just on Sundays, but also during the week, when possible, to receive the Eucharist more frequently.

Our readings today also invite us to partake in the banquet of wisdom, which means seeking God’s guidance in our daily decisions. Wisdom is not just about knowledge; it is about applying that knowledge in a way that leads to a good and virtuous life. Before making decisions, especially significant ones, let us pause to pray and ask for God’s wisdom. Let us reflect on whether our choices are leading us closer to God or away from Him. Today, let us ask ourselves, what am I feeding my soul? Am I seeking the bread of life that He offers eternal nourishment? Or am I filling myself with things that leave me empty? Let us turn to the wisdom of the Church, the guidance of the Holy Spirit and the living presence of Christ in the Eucharist to nourish and sustain us on our journey of faith.

Jesus reminds us that true satisfaction comes from a deeper source. The Eucharist is the food that sustains us on our spiritual journey, giving us the grace to overcome the challenges of life and remain faithful to His teachings.

As we continue our Mass today, let us approach the Eucharist with a heart full of gratitude and reverence, recognizing the profound love that God has for each of us. Let us allow this encounter with Christ to transform us so that we may become living witnesses of His presence in the world. Let us recognize the true value of the Eucharist and live each day with the wisdom and intention that leads us to eternal life. By integrating these teachings into our lives, we become more attuned to the guidance of the Holy Spirit, making choices that lead us to live fully in the presence of God, nourished by His wisdom and the Bread of Life.

May Jesus Christ be praised.

The Qualities of Good Shepherds

Sixteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time
July 21, 2024 — Year B
Readings: Jer 23:1-6 / Ps 23 / Eph 2:13-18 / Mk 6:30-34
by Rev. Nixon Negparanon, Pastor

We find a common theme of leadership, compassion, and unity in our readings today. Each passage presents a different aspect of God’s relationship with His people, highlighting the desire for their care, peace and guidance.

Our first reading gives a stern warning to the shepherds who failed in their duties. The leaders of Israel tasked with guiding and protecting the people have instead led them astray, yet this passage is also filled with hope. God promises to gather His scattered flock and raise up new shepherds who will care for them. This prophecy ultimately points to the coming of Jesus Christ, the Good Shepherd who will lead His people with justice and righteousness.

Paul speaks of the profound unity brought about by Christ in his letter to the Ephesians. Through His death and resurrection, Jesus has reconciled humanity with God and with each other. He has broken down the barriers that once separated Jews and Gentiles, creating one new humanity. This message is especially relevant today as we continue to face divisions within our own communities and the world at large. Those words remind us that true peace and unity can only be found in Christ.

In today’s gospel, we see Jesus welcoming back the apostles, who have been sent out on their mission. They were tired, having worked hard, and Jesus recognizes their need for rest. “Come away by yourselves to a deserted place and rest a while,” He tells them. However, when they arrive at the deserted place, they find a large crowd waiting.

Despite His own need for rest, and the disciples’ weariness, Jesus is moved with compassion for the crowd. Because they were like sheep without a shepherd, He begins to teach them many things, attending to their spiritual hunger before anything else.

This scene highlights Jesus’ profound compassion and His role as the Good Shepherd, echoing the imagery from Jeremiah, where God promises to raise up a shepherd who will lead with justice and righteousness. Jesus exemplifies this shepherding by putting the needs of the people before His own, demonstrating the sacrificial love and care that characterizes His ministry. The rest and nourishment He offers are not just physical, but deeply spiritual, addressing the core needs of the human heart.

The connection to the second reading from Ephesians is also significant. Paul speaks of Jesus breaking down the dividing wall of hostility and making peace through His sacrifice. This peace is not just the absence of conflict, but a deep abiding presence of God’s love and grace, uniting us with God and with each other. Jesus as the Good Shepherd invites us into this peace, guiding us towards unity and reconciliation.

There was once a small town known for its high school basketball team. The team had an exceptional coach, Coach Thompson, who was deeply committed to his players. He wasn’t just concerned with their performance on the court, but also their well-being off it. He would often stay late to help them with their homework, listen to their personal struggles and offer guidance and support.

One season the team had a particularly grueling schedule. They practiced hard and played intense games almost every week. By mid-season, the players were exhausted. Coach Thompson decided to give them a break. “Let’s take a weekend off,” he said. “Rest, spend time with your families, and recharge.”

However, that weekend Coach Thompson received a call from one of his players, Jake, who was going through a tough time at home. His parents were fighting, and he felt lost and alone. Despite the need for his own rest, Coach Thompson didn’t hesitate. He drove to Jake’s house, took him out for a meal, and spent the day with him, listening and offering words of comfort.

Coach Thompson’s actions resonated deeply with the entire team. They saw how he lived out his commitment to their well-being, even at the expense of his own comfort. This compassion and selflessness not only strengthened their bond, but also inspired them to look out for each other, both on and off the court.

This story mirrors Jesus’ response to the crowd in today’s gospel. Just as Coach Thompson put his players’ needs before his own, Jesus prioritized the spiritual and emotional needs of the people, exemplifying the true Shepherd’s heart. Both coach Thompson and Jesus demonstrate the transformative power of compassion and sacrificial love, reminding us of our call to care for one another in our journeys.

Reflecting on these readings, we are called to examine our own roles as shepherds in our families, communities, and workplaces. How are we guiding those entrusted to our care? Are we living in compassion, justice, and righteousness as Christ exemplified?

In a world often marked with division and hostility, Paul’s message in Ephesians challenges us to be instruments of peace and reconciliation. We must strive to break down the walls that divide us, fostering unity through our common faith in Christ.

Finally, we learn from Jesus’ example in the gospel: Even in times of weariness, He prioritized the needs of others, teaching us the importance of compassion and selflessness. As followers of Christ, we are called to be attentive to the needs around us, offering guidance, support, and love, even when it demands personal sacrifice. May we take these lessons to heart, embodying the qualities of good shepherds in our daily lives and striving for the peace and unity that Christ has won for us.

May Jesus Christ be praised.

Bearers of God’s Kingdom

Fifteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time
July 14, 2024 — Year B
Readings: Am 7:12-15 / Ps 85 / Eph 1:3-14 / Mk 6:7-13
by Rev. Nixon Negparanon, Pastor

In today’s readings, we encounter themes of divine calling, mission, and the power of God’s grace working through us.  Each passage invites us to reflect on how we are called and sent forth as disciples in the modern world.

The prophet Amos is confronted by the priest of Bethel, who tells him to stop prophesying in Israel and to go back to Judah.  Amos responds by affirming that he did not choose this path for himself but was called by God.

“I was no prophet, nor a prophet’s son, but I was a herdsman, a dresser of sycamore trees.  And the Lord took me from following the flock, and the Lord said to me ‘Go.  Prophesy to my people of Israel.’”

This passage reminds us that God calls ordinary people to do extraordinary things.  Saint Therese of Lisieux summarized this beautifully when she said, “The Lord needs from us neither great deeds nor profound thoughts, neither intelligence nor talents.  He cherishes simplicity.”  Amos’s call from a humble background reflects the simplicity and obedience that God cherishes.

In his letter to the Ephesians, Paul writes about our spiritual blessings in Christ, emphasizing that God chose us in Christ before the foundation of the world to be holy and blameless in love.  He speaks of our adoption as God’s children through Jesus Christ, the redemption through His blood, and the inheritance we have obtained.  Paul highlights the mystery of God’s will, revealed in Christ, and the sealing of believers with the Holy Spirit as a guarantee of our inheritance.

In today’s gospel, we read about Jesus sending out the twelve apostles, two by two, giving them authority over unclean spirits, and instructing them to take nothing for their journey except a staff: no bread, no bag, no money in their belts.  They were to wear sandals and not put on two tunics.  He also told them, “Whenever you enter a house, stay there until you leave that place.  If any place will not welcome you, and they refuse to hear you, as you leave, shake off the dust that is on your feet as a testimony against them.”  The apostles went out and told the people they should repent. They cast out many demons, anointed with oil many who were sick, and cured them.

Jesus’ instructions to the apostles are strikingly simple and direct.  He emphasizes the need for trust in God’s providence and the importance of humility and detachment from material possessions.  The mission of the apostles was to proclaim the Kingdom of God, call for repentance, and bring healing, both physical and spiritual.

The theme of trust and reliance on God is a timeless message that resonates deeply in our contemporary world, where self-reliance and material security are often prioritized.  This gospel passage challenges us to reflect on our own dependencies and consider how we might deepen our trust in God’s providence.  In a world where success is often measured by wealth, power, and self-sufficiency, the gospel invites us to reassess our priorities.  How often do we rely on our resources, rather than on God’s guidance?  The call to take nothing for the journey is a powerful reminder that our true security lies in God alone.

Moreover, the mission of the apostles to bring healing and proclaim repentance is as relevant today as it was in Jesus’ time.  We are surrounded by spiritual and physical suffering, and the need for repentance and transformation is ever present.  By living out our faith through acts of love, service, and healing, we become instruments of God’s grace in the world.

There are four things that Jesus reminds us of today.

First:  Trust in God’s providence.  Just as the apostles were called to trust in God’s provision, we, too, are invited to place our trust in Him, especially in uncertain times. This trust can manifest in various ways, such as relying on God’s guidance in making decisions or believing that He will provide for our needs when we are in distress.

Second:  Simplicity and detachment.  The apostles’ journey with only a staff calls us to reflect on our own attachment to material possessions.  In a society driven by consumerism, this message encourages us to find contentment in simplicity and to prioritize spiritual wealth over material wealth.

Third:  Community and hospitality.  Jesus instructs the apostles to depend on the hospitality of others, highlighting the importance of community.  In a more modern context, we are reminded to be open to giving and receiving help within our communities. This fosters a spirit of solidarity and mutual support, which is vital in a world where many feel isolated and disconnected.

Fourth:  Mission and weakness.  The apostles were sent out to preach repentance, cast out demons, and heal the sick.  We are called to continue this mission by being witnesses of Christ’s love and mercy in our daily lives.  Whether through acts of kindness, advocating for justice, or sharing our faith, we participate in God’s mission to bring hope and healing to the world.

In embracing these lessons, we echo the words of St. Francis of Assisi: “Start by doing what is necessary, then do what is possible, and suddenly you are doing the impossible.”  By responding to God’s call with trust, simplicity, and a commitment to community, we become instruments of His grace, capable of transforming the world around us.  As we reflect on these readings, let us be inspired by the faith and trust of Amos, the assurance of our blessings in Ephesians, and the mission of the apostles.  May we, too, become bearers of God’s kingdom in our world today.

Mothers are Like Jesus

Solemnity of the Ascension of the Lord
May 12, 2024 — Year B
Readings: Acts 1:1-11 / Ps 47 / Eph 1:17-23 / Mk 16:15-20
by Rev. Nixon Negparanon, Pastor

A story is told about a priest, who in talking about heaven in his homily said, “We bring nothing with us when we die; there is no money in heaven. People in heaven have no money.” The whole congregation was quiet until a little girl whispered to her mother loud enough for all to hear, “Mama, Mama, we’re already in heaven!”

As we come together to celebrate the Solemnity of the Lord’s Ascension, coinciding with Mother’s Day, we are presented with a unique opportunity to reflect on the profound love and sacrifice embodied in both events. Just as Jesus ascended into heaven, entrusting His disciples with the mission to spread the Gospel. mothers exemplify selfless love and nurturing care in guiding their children towards their purpose in life.

In the passage from Acts, we witness the disciples gazing upward as Jesus ascends into Heaven, leaving them with a profound sense of awe and wonder. Similarly, mothers often look upon their children with a sense of awe, marveling at their growth and potential. Just as Jesus entrusted His disciples with the mission to spread the Gospel, mothers nurture and empower their children to fulfill their God-given potential, instilling in them values of love, compassion, and faith.

In the letter of Paul to the Ephesians (Eph 1:17-23), we are reminded of the immeasurable power of God at work within us. Through the ascension of Christ, He is exalted above all things and His authority transcends earthly limitations. Mothers, too, embody a divine strength and resilience as they navigate the challenges of motherhood, drawing upon faith and inner grace to guide their children towards the path of righteousness. The prayer of Saint Paul echoes our longing for spiritual enlightenment and wisdom. Reflecting the aspirations of mothers, they impart wisdom and guidance to their children as they embark on their journey of faith.

The gospel reading from Mark encapsulates the Great Commission, in which Jesus instructs His disciples to go forth and proclaim the Gospel to all creation. This was not merely a suggestion, but a mandate for all believers to actively participate in the mission of evangelization. Similarly, mothers play a vital role in nurturing the faith of their children, serving as primary witnesses and teachers of God’s love and truth in the home.

What is the command of Jesus for us today? The first is that we should preach. What are those things that we should preach to others? The good news of salvation, that we are loved by God. Even if we are sinners, that we are brothers and sisters to each other, that life has dignity and meaning, and we too have dignity. That is the only way to eternal life. That is why all of us are called in order to preach and to teach. Busy people are not exempted from this mission. Let us not be afraid to tell the truth. Preaching is not only to be done within the church, but also in the office, in the workplace, in homes and many more.

Let me share with you a story about Radell Norris. He was a conscientious young man, but he was also a shy young man. He found it hard just to talk to people, much less to discuss religion with them. Then one day he got an idea. Radell did a lot of reading, and he was aware of the many pamphlets about the Catholic faith. So, he decided to set aside part of his weekly allowance to buy pamphlets. Radell placed his pamphlets in places where he thought people would pick them up and read them. For example, he placed them in waiting rooms and in reception areas.

One day, a young woman who was a friend of his family told his parents how she became a convert and how her husband returned to the Church. It all started with a pamphlet. She said, “I found it in the hospital waiting room.” You can imagine the boy’s excitement when he learned of the impact of just one of his pamphlets.

The story of Radell Norris points to an important point about proclaiming the Good News; there are many ways to do it. We can proclaim it directly as Radell did. Today, many people use the new technology of the internet, Facebook, websites, and cell phones to spread the Good News. Or we can proclaim it less directly. For example, by praying and giving financial support to the missionary activity of the Church.

The second is, we should heal. All of us are called to become healers. Not only as physical healers, but also as psychological and spiritual healers. Not tomorrow, but today.

Lastly, we should be witnesses, not just in words, but also most especially in action. As Saint Augustine had said, “Believe what you preach, teach what you believe, and live it.”

Brothers and sisters, as we reflect on the Solemnity of the Lord’s Ascension and celebrate Mother’s Day, let us express gratitude for the mothers in our lives who have guided us with unwavering love and sacrifice. May we honor their legacy, embracing our mission with courage and zeal, knowing that Christ’s Ascension marks the beginning of a new chapter in salvation history. Just as mothers selflessly devote themselves to the well-being of their children, let us strive to live in accordance with God, guided by the wisdom and grace bestowed upon us through Christ’s exaltation.

As we continue to celebrate our Mass today, may we ascend towards our true purpose, united with Christ in mission and empowered by the Holy Spirit to be instruments of His peace and love in the world.

May Jesus Christ be praised.

Love Without Condition

Sixth Sunday of Easter
May 5, 2024 — Year B
Readings: Acts 10:25-26, 34-35, 44-48 / Ps 98 / 1 Jn 4:7-10 / Jn 15:9-17
by Rev. Nixon Negparanon, Pastor

There is a story told about a devastating famine in Russia that had brought great misery.  A beggar had become weak and emaciated and almost starved to death.  He approached the novelist Leo Tolstoy and asked him for assistance.

Tolstoy searched his pockets for money but discovered that he didn’t even have as much as a single coin.  However, he took the beggar’s worn hand between his own and said, “Don’t be angry with me, my brother.  I have nothing with me.”

The thin, lined face of the beggar lit up as if from some inner light.  The beggar whispered in reply, “But sir, you called me ‘brother.’  That was the greatest gift that you could give me.”

Jesus said in our gospel today, “This is my commandment:  Love one another as I have loved you.”

As we gather on this Sixth Sunday of Easter, the readings invite us into a deeper understanding of love, unity, and the transformative power of the Holy Spirit in our lives.  The Easter season is drawing to a close, yet the spirit of renewal and hope remains vibrant within us.  This Sunday offers a moment for reflection on the journey we’ve undertaken since Easter Sunday and the profound teachings shared during this sacred time.

In the reading from the Acts of the Apostles, we witness the radical inclusivity of God’s love, as Peter proclaims to Cornelius and his household that God shows no partiality.  This passage challenges us to expand our understanding of community and embrace the diversity of God’s creation.  It reminds us that the love of God knows no boundaries, and extends to all people regardless of race, ethnicity, or background.

The passage from the First Letter of John reinforces this message of love, emphasizing that love is not merely a human emotion, but the very essence of God’s being.  As beloved children of God, we are called to love one another for love is from God, and whoever loves has been born of God and knows God.  This love is not based on merit or worthiness but is freely given to all who open their hearts to receive it.

In the Gospel of John, Jesus speaks to His disciples about the profound nature of love, and the call to abide in His love.  He reminds them that they are not merely servants but friends, chosen and appointed to bear fruit that will last.  This passage challenges us to deepen our relationship with Christ and to live lives rooted in love, compassion, and service to others.

The gospel also brings us into the intimate discourse between Jesus and His disciples, a conversation rich with profound meaning and enduring relevance.  In these verses, Jesus speaks of love, friendship, and the essence of discipleship.

Jesus begins by commanding His disciples to abide in His love, just as He abides in the love of the Father.  This call to abide in love is not passive; it requires an active commitment to remain connected to the source of all love, which is God.  Through this connection, we find our strength, our purpose, and our identity as followers of Christ.

The depth of Jesus’ love for us is revealed in His willingness to lay down His life for our sins, a sacrifice that exemplifies the greatest expression of love.  In this act of selflessness, we see the true nature of love – love that is sacrificial, unconditional, and boundless.

As Jesus continues, He invites His disciples into a deeper relationship with Him, calling them friends, rather than servants.  This shift in language underscores the intimacy of their connection and the trust that exists between them.  It is a relationship built, not on fear or obligation, but on mutual love and respect.

Central to Jesus’ message is the commandment to love one another as He has loved us.  This commandment is not merely a suggestion or a request; it is a mandate that lies at the heart of Christian discipleship.  To love as Jesus loves is to embody the very essence of His teachings, to extend compassion, forgiveness, and grace to all those we encounter.

There was a story about two little boys who were brothers and went to school for enrollment.  The teacher asked these little brothers about their age and birthdays, so she could place them in the registration form.

The older of the two replied, “We’re both seven.  My birthday is April 8 and my brother’s birthday is April 20.”  The teacher replied, “But that’s not possible, boys.”

The quieter brother spoke up.  “No, it’s true.  One of us is adopted.”

“Oh!” said the teacher, “Which one is adopted?”

The two brothers looked at each other and smiled.  The older brother said, “We asked Dad that same question a while ago, but he just looked at us and said he loved us both equally and he couldn’t remember anymore which one of us is adopted.”  What a wonderful analogy of God’s love for us.  It is a love without condition; it does not discriminate.

Finally, Jesus reminds His disciples that they did not choose Him, but He chose them, and appointed them to go and bear fruit that will last.  This commissioning is both a privilege and a responsibility, calling us to live lives that reflect the love and grace we have received.

As we reflect on these words of Jesus, may we be inspired to abide in His love, to embrace our identity as His friends and disciples, and bear fruit that will bring glory to God.

May we strive to love one another with the same selfless love that Jesus has shown us, and may our lives be a testament to the transformative power of God’s love at work in the world.

May Jesus Christ be praised.

He Lays Down His Life

Fourth Sunday of Easter
April 21, 2024 — Year B
Readings: Acts 4:8-12 / Ps 118 / 1 Jn 3:1-2 / Jn 10:11-18
by Rev. Nixon Negparanon, Pastor

Perhaps you are already very familiar with Psalm 23, the most popular psalm, on the Good Shepherd. Jesus, in our gospel today, tells us that He came precisely so that we may live with that life, peace, and happiness described in Psalm 23. Part of it I will read to you:

“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.
In verdant pastures He gives me repose.
Beside restful waters He leads me.
He refreshes my soul.
He guides me in right paths for His name’s sake.
Even though I walk in the dark valley, I fear no evil.
For You are at my side with Your rod and Your staff that give me courage.”

As we ponder upon our readings this Sunday, our hearts are drawn to the profound imagery of Jesus as the Good Shepherd. In this beautiful passage from the Gospel of St. John, we are reminded of the tender care and unwavering love that Jesus, our Shepherd, extends to each of us.

As we reflect on this imagery, we are invited to contemplate our relationship with Jesus. Just as a shepherd knows his sheep by name and lays down his life for them, Jesus knows each of us intimately, and selflessly offers Himself for our salvation. It’s a comforting thought, knowing that amidst life’s uncertainties and challenges, we have a shepherd who guides, protects, and sustains us.

This middle Sunday of Easter season is traditionally celebrated as Good Shepherd Sunday. We lift up the particular image of Jesus and the way of thinking about God’s care for us. We hear the deeply comforting words of Psalm 23. We are reminded that Jesus not only protects us in our darkest hour, but that He freely laid down His life for us. What greater love can be imagined?

This image of Jesus as the Good Shepherd is one that is well-known, and so it should be. When we think of Him in this image, it brings to our mind all kinds of images which recall the ways in which Our Lord cares for us. As stated in Psalm 23, God Himself is depicted in lovely ways as the shepherd of His people.

Perhaps most significantly are the promises that God makes through His prophets that, since no one else is worthy or able to assume the responsibility, He will Himself come and be His people’s shepherd. In His care, people will be safe, and they will be content.

With this in mind, we hear Jesus’ claim, and we cannot help but be struck by the significance of it. His claim is that He is God, come to His people as promised, to be their shepherd. He is the fulfiller of the long hopes of God’s people.

Why did Jesus use this image of the Good Shepherd? In Palestine, the shepherd brought the sheep into the sheepfold every night. It was a circular stone wall with an opening or door where the sheep entered. Once the sheep were inside for the night, the shepherd slept in that opening or door all night. The sheep could not get out without stepping over the shepherd’s body, which meant they would not get out at all during the night.

Jesus is the gate, and anyone who enters through Him will be safe and will go freely in and out and be sure of finding pasture. Others steal, kill, and destroy, but Jesus is the Good Shepherd.

The Church calls us to reflect on our role as sheep in Jesus’ flock. Do we listen attentively to His voice, trusting in His guidance, even when the path ahead seems unclear? Do we allow ourselves to be led to the green pastures of spiritual nourishment and the still waters of His peace? Or do we wander off, entangled in the destructions and temptations of the world?

Moreover, the image of Jesus as Good Shepherd challenges us to consider our own role as shepherds to others. How do we extend Christ’s love and compassion to those around us, especially to those who are lost, vulnerable, or in need of care? Are we willing to emulate Jesus’ sacrificial love, laying down our lives for the sake of others?

This Sunday is also known as Vocation Sunday, and vocations to the priesthood and the religious life are highlighted. There is something that we are asking of the Lord. There is something that we want of the Lord. We are asking the Lord to send more men and women to serve in His vineyard and especially more men to serve as shepherds as priests and deacons in the Church. Yet the fact is that many are called, but few have responded.

So let us ask the Lord to open the hearts of those He has called, so that they will follow the Good Shepherd in laying down their lives to serve God and His people. On our part, let us pray, and let us also encourage those who are discerning the call of the Lord, that may the Eternal Shepherd send us good shepherds who will serve with love and lead the people of God to green pastures and peaceful waters as well as through the valleys of darkness and distress.

In the vales of the world, often fraught with division and uncertainty, the image of the Good Shepherd offers us hope and reassurance. It reminds us that we are never alone, that we are cherished and protected by a Shepherd who will never abandon us. As we journey through life, let us strive to follow the voice of our Shepherd, trusting His guidance, and seeking to share His love with all whom we encounter.

May Jesus Christ be praised.

Can I Get a Witness?

Third Sunday of Easter
April 14, 2024 — Year B
Readings: Acts 3:13-15, 17-19 / Ps 4 / 1 Jn 2:1-5a / Lk 24:35-48
by Rev. Jay Biber, Guest Celebrant

Some of your fellow parishioners are away on a Cursillo weekend.  If you are not familiar with that word, it’s a Spanish word which means “a short course.”  In Christianity, it began almost a hundred years ago as a way of revitalizing the Faith among lay people.

And so, this is a women’s Cursillo going on this weekend, and like all Catholic stuff, there’s a specific order to it.  There’s reason behind it.  It’s ordered so it exposes the core elements of the Faith in an ordered way, but it’s also very personal.  There’s a lot of witnessing to people’s own experiences.  One of the things that happens is what they call the Emmaus Walk.

What we begin the gospel with today is the end of that walk.  Two discouraged disciples encounter Christ on the way to Jerusalem, on the road.  They are so discouraged and heartsick.  They think that everything they hope for is gone.  They meet the risen Christ, but they don’t recognize Him, and He explains it all.  He lays it all out to them – this is how it had to happen.  And then at the end, when did they recognize Him?  This is the breaking of the bread; that’s when they recognize Him.

The women on Cursillo this weekend are from as far Charlottesville, Harrisonburg, Waynesboro, Roanoke, this whole part of the state.  On this Emmaus Walk, two participants are paired with each other; they go out and walk for half an hour.  They are a couple of days into this experience already, and it’s probably begun to shake up their hearts a little bit.  This is the time when they’re saying, “This is the time; what’s going on in there?”  They get a chance to talk; and they know they won’t be judged.  They probably don’t know the other person to start with.  But they know that God is at work, and it’s a good opportunity to put their faith into words.

At the core of our Faith is the capacity to take into the world, sort of like charity.  It begins at home, but it doesn’t end there.  The giving of witness, a testimony is a way of doing that.  Telling the stories begins at home, but it doesn’t end there.  The allusions to witnessing are strong.  If you believe you have a gift to give, a gift around which you can organize your whole life, a gift that echoes through the ages, that gift can be shared with simple people, complicated people, rich people, poor people, educated, not educated people.  We can give that gift to our children by telling them here’s where you are, you’re a member of this family, you belong here, you’re not just some piece adrift in the universe.  As you’re at this table, you’re part of a great family, and it goes way, way back in time and every place on Earth.

Think about Peter in the Acts of the Apostles.  He says the author of life you put to death, but God raised him from the dead.  Of this we are witnesses.  That’s what the apostles were doing – being witnesses and giving a testimony.  And then of course in the gospel, it is Jesus himself.  Thus, is it written – He’s laying out what you can do with your children and tell them the stories that say that Christ would suffer and rise from the dead.  So, you don’t have to panic or run away.  No – He said this was going to happen and that repentance for the forgiveness would be preached in his name.  Where?  To all the nations.  And you are witnesses of these things.

In the summer of 1983, I had completed my seminary studies but had declined ordination in 1972.  I went into the business world, enjoyed the heck out of it, and thought I’d be married with a family by 1982.  But it didn’t happen, and I began to consider ordination.  People asked if it was the hand of God, and I said no, I think it was the foot!  He was nagging me.  I thought I had a better idea, but long story short, I was in Boston at the time, and happened to meet the bishop; he asked if I wanted to go to school.  I said no, I need to decide if I have enough faith for something like this, and I don’t know if I’d be any good at it.  I needed to know if people would think I was any good at it.  I said I don’t know what I think; you’ll have to throw me in the pool.  So, he did; I started off at six months at St. Vincent DePaul by the shipyard in Newport News.  That was a special blessing because it was way ahead of its time in a lot of ways.  It was a very integrated parish.  I sang with the folk group and a gospel choir both.

When summer came, I knew this would be a real test because I worked up at what was then called Medical College of Virginia in Richmond.  I liked it, because it was a combination of the hospitals I had known in Boston, a little of Mass General, and a little bit of Boston City Hospitals – Mass General being the high-end teaching place for all the exotic stuff, and Boston City being a tough hospital in the inner city.  MCV (now VCU Medical Center) was both.  I spent ten weeks there in the summer of ’83.  And I was a wreck at the end of it – we were on call two nights a week and saw all that comes in in the course of a night.  My special unit was the burn unit in which people come from all over.  I also had general surgery which included a lot of gunshot and knife wounds. These are tough places to be.  I wondered if I could bring faith to this whole world, not just to Catholics.  It was awful at the time, but it did the trick, and I decided that I could go on.

At the same time, I realized that I was going to benefit from being there.  Broad Street in Richmond is a great dividing line between white and black neighborhoods.  And there I was on campus at VCU staying in one of the dorms.  And somebody recommended that I visit a Baptist Church right near here – Cedar Street Baptist.  So, I would go to Mass at St. Peter’s (the original Cathedral for our diocese) near the state capital, and then I’d go to Cedar Street Baptist, and there I experienced my introduction into this brilliant black culture, where the whole idea of witnessing is very important.  The gospel choir and the preaching are very important, and they would say that it’s not even a prayer until you break a sweat.  There’s an energy to it; ours is beautiful but much more modest.  There are so many beautiful ways to pray.  So, we’d be singing and then there was a quiet, beautiful ritual to it.  As it warmed up, you’d hear the Amen Corner.

We have our own Amen Corner; we have the back and forth which is a core of our worship.  “The Lord be with you.”  “And with your spirit.”  “Lift up your hearts.”  “We lift them up unto the Lord.”  We do that throughout the whole liturgy.  The antiphon is the back-and-forth prayer.  In the black churches, there was a time when the church was the only place they could legally meet.  The church was where everyone was at home, and as the preacher would warm up, people would say, “Come on now, preach!” to encourage.  At some point, he would ask, “Can I get a witness?”  They recognized the depth.  Of course, this is a witness that’s gone through things that you can’t imagine.  This is a witness that goes back how many generations?  A witness where the only one was God; the only one was Christ.

What a lesson.  You know, the centrality of the witness that would tell the story and break out into a testimony.  I had an event this past week in Lexington where there were a lot of college kids.  There was free pizza – what’s not to love?  The program was on loss and joy and included a bunch of kids from W&L and VMI and also parishioners.  I told them that I look at them differently than their professors do, because I look at you and I say, I want you to be ready to be able to your 3-year-old seven years from now, to be able to give a witness to your 10-year-old, to your 16-year-old, to put the story of your faith on your own lips, and learn how to do it with great confidence.  I want to say that you want to have children, that you are not afraid, and I have the big story of our Faith to tell them, and the personal stories that go with it – the personal stories that illumine the big story.  And I said that’s what I like to see.  Of course, giving a witness is a little bit like dancing – you’re scared stiff because you move one foot and you don’t know what the other is going to do yet.

But what a beautiful gift to give – it’s how the faith gets spread to the corners of the earth.  Our way of looking at things, telling the big story, as those women are doing on their Cursillo this weekend, telling their stories as well.  It becomes an enormous gift, because I know that whatever happens to my child, in success or in moments of difficulties, Christ will be there.  I’ll have words on my lips to say that we don’t have to run from anyone.

How to Have Happiness and Life

Holy Thursday
March 28, 2024 — Year B
Readings: Ex 12:1-8, 11-14 / Ps 116 / 1 Cor 11:23-26 / Jn 13:1-15
by Rev. Nixon Negparanon, Pastor

In Jesus’ ministry, what is the first miracle that He performed? I’m sure that many of you, especially those who pray the rosary, know the answer. The first miracle that Jesus did is the second mystery of the Mysteries of Light: the wedding at Cana, where Jesus transformed the water into wine. And after Jesus transformed water into wine, everybody in that wedding party remained happy. They were joyful, continuing to drink.

The second question I would like to ask is: What is the last miracle that Jesus did before He died? This also has something to do with wine. At the Last Supper, Jesus took the wine and transformed it into His own blood, which brought life to the world.

So two miracles that Jesus did, at the very beginning and at the end. First, when Jesus performed that miracle, He turned the water into wine and brought happiness to the people. Then Jesus turned the wine into His body, which brought life to the world. Happiness and life. That’s what the Lord wants us to have as we follow Him. He wants us to have happiness and to have life.

Brothers and sisters, let us try to reflect on this, because not all happiness will lead us or will bring us to life or everlasting life. There are happinesses that lead us to death. There are happinesses that kill.  For example, drinking too much alcohol will make the drunkard happy, but along the way, it will harm his health, and in the end, it will ruin his life.

Or cheating. Cheating makes the cheater happy. But it kills, not only the relationship with the family, but also the love, the trust, of the husband or wife and the children, because they are being betrayed. It kills relationships; it kills trust; it kills love.

Or perhaps gambling. Gambling makes the gambler happy, but in the end, it drains the pockets, and it leads to death. Death in the relationship or death in many other things.

Or perhaps drugs, the same thing. It makes the drug addict, the user, the pusher happy, but we know that, in the end, it kills life. It ruins life.

That is why, brothers and sisters, on this evening of Holy Thursday, the Lord wants to remind us of the two things that will give us happiness and life – happiness and life everlasting. What are these two things?

First is service: serving one another. In our gospel today, we hear that Jesus washed the apostles’ feet. He set them an example on how to serve. That’s why He said: “Do you realize what I have done for you? You call me Teacher and Master, and rightly so, for indeed I am. If I, therefore, the Master and Teacher have washed your feet, you ought to wash one another’s feet (Jn 13:14-15).”

Here in our gospel today, Jesus gives us an example of true service. He serves with humility and out of love. That’s the kind of service that Jesus is teaching not only His disciples, but all of us who desire to experience true happiness and true life. If we want to be happy and to gain eternal life, we need to serve with humility and love.

If we follow this instruction of Jesus, to serve others with humility and love, then we will surely experience happiness, not only within ourselves, but also, we experience happiness in our family and in our community. But if we do not follow the instruction of Jesus, if a person is proud and not willing to serve, then it causes a lot of suffering and pain in the community, the family, and within ourselves.

That is why, brothers and sisters, if the world wants to experience that happiness and life eternal, then it needs to shift from exploitation to service. It needs to shift from arrogance to humility, and from selfish cruelty to compassion.

What is the second thing that the Lord gave us in order for us to attain happiness and life? The second is the Eucharist. On the night before Jesus suffered, He took bread and a cup filled with wine, and He said to His disciples: Eat this. Drink this. This is my body. And do this in memory of me.

This is very important. This is a very important commandment that Jesus left for all of us. Before He died, He said, “Do this in memory of me.” That is why the Church is built, first and foremost so that we can remember those last words of Jesus at the Last Supper, when He said, “Do this in memory of me.” Jesus is telling us He wants us to attend Mass always and to receive Him in the Eucharist. That’s why Jesus said in Jn 6:54, “Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life, and I will raise him up on the last day.”

Attending Mass is very important, because we remember the sacrifice of Jesus. That is why the Eucharist is the very sacrifice of the body and blood of Christ, which He instituted to perpetuate the sacrifice of the cross.

That is our faith. Every time we attend Mass, we remember the sacrifices that Jesus did for each one of us. Every time you attend Mass, you have that big crucifix there, and that small crucifix on the altar is for the priest, so that we also are reminded that, every time we say Mass, we are reminded the kind of sacrifice that Jesus did for each one of us.

Brothers and sisters, perhaps the next question is: Do we really want to experience happiness and life everlasting? If we do, we need to do these two things: service and the Eucharist. Serve and go to church every Sunday or every day.

We cannot do only one. You cannot say, I only want to serve and not go to Mass. Or, I’d just rather go to Mass and not serve. Both must go together. That is what Jesus is showing us in our gospel today. The importance of service and His command to remember Him every time we celebrate the Eucharist. We need to serve and go to Mass at the same time, because we cannot say, I only serve and not go to Mass, because our service will have no meaning if we don’t receive Jesus in the Eucharist.

Going to Mass and receiving Jesus in the Eucharist is also our guide; we will be encouraged, and we will be enlightened to serve as Jesus serves: with love and with humility. Going to Mass will strengthen the grace we receive from the Lord. The Holy Spirit will continue to guide us in our service for His Church and for others. Without God, we will not be able to serve Him with all our heart and with pure intentions and no concern for motives.  Every time we go to Mass, we are reminded that every time we serve, we need to serve with humility and love, like that of Jesus.