May 24, 2013

First Reading – Sirach 6:5-17

True friends are difficult to find.  The scripture tells us not to put our trust to someone we just knew because there are friends in name only.  True friendship are tested with time and difficulties.  You can’t rely on many friends to be happy.  You have to be on guard and reserve in choosing the people you confide with.

One booklet that I chanced upon stated, “When Adam was lonely, God did not give 10  friends, but one wife”.  It was funny but for happily married couple, this is so true.  A great spouse is a partner and friend in one.

What then, for single people?  Often times I suggest single people to find a community to participate in.  A good cause to be a member with, where they would meet like-minded people who are trustworthy and have the same ideals in life.  People in the community are not perfect, but they share the same beliefs to stay true and focus their energy on helping others.

I strongly suggest The Feast.  It’s a weekly gathering of Light of Jesus Community in different parts of the country and the world, to celebrate and give witness to God’s mercy and glory.  If it’s difficult to find your purpose in life as a single or married person, attending a nearby The Feast may help you discern it.  The Feast volunteers, organizers, and attendees are people who wants to find good in this world where different standards are overwhelming.

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Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 119: 12, 16, 18, 27, 34, 35

Guide me, Lord, in the way of your commands.

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Gospel: Mark 10:1-12

think…we should always respect the wisdom and learning of our elders.

Reflection…When I was a little child I despise being told what to do all the time.  I didn’t understand the adult ways.  I criticize how I was brought up, thinking how imperfect and undisciplined grown-ups can be.  When I matured and had my own family, I began to understand.  It wasn’t that easy as it looks.  If there is a word stronger than difficult, it would be used to describe raising children.  I often realized my mistakes and imperfection as a parent.  How is it that we don’t appreciate our parents when we were younger?  Now that our time has come, we find ourselves in the same situation they were in and not having any clue on how to go about it.

When I find myself confused and overwhelmed by the standards of the world, I would open only one book – the Bible.  The absolute truth is there.

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God our Father, Jesus gave us a better understanding of the truth.  Not the rigid legality of the law, but the real truth of the universal law.  Help us to set our thoughts, words, and deeds according to your Words and not to be overcome by the standards of this world.