A New Chapter Of My Life

 

As a new year begins, I find myself standing at the starting line once again, armed with a fresh set of goals. I’m leaning into hope this time. Hoping that this year won’t just be a repeat of the last, but a genuine step forward. I want to improve, even if it’s just one small habit at a time.

The Wins: Feeding the Mind

One resolution I actually stuck to last year was diving into books and audiobooks. I managed to finish 10 titles, which feels like a massive accomplishment! In the middle of a hectic daily routine, being able to carve out time for a story or a new perspective is a gift. It’s a relief to know I’ve made my brain work a little harder, choosing a page or a chapter over the mindless and endless scrolling of my phone. This year, I’m aiming to beat that score.

The Struggles: The Creative Block

I went into last year thinking I’d write much more for this blog, but the posts were few and far between. The inspiration just wasn't there. Looking back, there were so many moments and events that would have made for beautiful journal entries, but laziness or perhaps just the slowing down that comes with age won the day. Sometimes, I just want to do nothing. However, I’m wishing for more productivity this year. I want to try writing more, even if it’s just for a change of pace.

The Hurdles: Health and the "Spark"

My biggest "fail" was my health. I started last year at 110kg with a goal to reach 90kg, but I didn't lose a single stone. I’m still 110kg today. It’s a tough pill to swallow, but I have to be honest: how can I expect to lose weight if I didn't truly commit to a diet?

My attempts at physical activity were equally short-lived. I tried Saturday morning workouts with a friend, but after three weeks, I chose sleep instead. Waking up early is a sacrifice I just wasn't ready to make. I told myself I’d go to the gym after work, but my body usually demanded a warm dinner and the comfort of home instead. Even after buying new basketball shoes and hitting the court for a couple of Sundays, the motivation fizzled out.

This year, I’m not making any grand promises. I’m simply looking for a "spark" that extra bit of motivation to get moving. I’m still hopeful it will come.

The Horizon: Travel and Soul-Searching

For some reason, I feel a deep pull to travel this year. We already have some wonderful plans in motion. A pilgrimage to Fatima, Portugal on March, a weekend escape to Wales on April and a family holiday in Croatia on the summer.

I’m genuinely excited. I think my body and soul are calling me to disconnect from the daily grind and explore the wonders of God’s creation. I often wish for a sabbatical year, a time to completely unplug from jobs and bills, but I know that’s a big ask.

Final Thoughts: A Heart Full of Joy

Despite the goals I missed, I know I am incredibly lucky. I am blessed with the miracle of life, good health, a wonderful wife, and lovely children. I have a job that sustains us in an expensive city like London, and a community where God continues to use me to serve others.

I am happy. My heart is filled with joy, and I am hopeful for what this new year has to offer. I’m ready to grab every opportunity that comes my way.

From Tiny Steps to a Cap and Gown

Today is one of the happiest moments of my life. It is my daughter Kayla’s graduation day, and I find myself unable to contain my emotions. I have cried tears of pure joy today because, finally, after all these years of hard work, she has finished her studies.

As I watched her, I couldn't help but remember the days when she was just a little girl. I remembered bringing her to school and picking her up every afternoon. It feels like only yesterday that she was small enough for me to carry on my shoulders. I smiled thinking about the "constant battle" it was to bring her home from her grandparents' house because she loved staying there so much.

One of my favourite memories is racing her and her brother, Keiron, from the nearest Tube station to our house. We would sprint home just to have lunch together, and in those moments, I wished the noon-time races would never end.

Of course, it wasn't always easy. I recall the days I had to scold her for not finishing her assignments or the times her teachers wanted to speak with me. I remember the late nights spent preparing her for the Carnaval—whether it was crafting a bespoke costume or helping her with her makeup. Then there were the calls from the principal about her "little accidents." From bumps on the head and scratched knees to simple ankle sprains, she was always so prone to accidents!

But through all the scrapes and the scoldings, she always shone. I will never forget the way she stood out among the other students, especially when she would sing in front of a crowd. I will cherish those memories as long as I live.

Today, she accomplished her mission. I always told her, “Finish your studies; that is the one task I want you to complete.” It wasn't always a smooth road, but she did it.

Now, my prayer is that she continues to dream—and to dream big. This stage of her life isn't the end; it’s just the beginning of something huge. I pray for her happiness, for her success, and that she enters this next chapter with a bright spirit and endless enthusiasm.

May the Lord bless her and keep her always. May He make His face shine upon her and guide her on this new journey. The journey that is life.  

The Call to Serve in CFC: A Journey of Faith and Humility

 

I just want to share with you our sharing in the last CFC Mission Core Group Online Gathering for the month of September. This is our journey as leaders in CFC Couples For Christ.

Francis: Good evening, brothers and sisters! May the peace and love of our Lord be with you all! I am Bro. Francis Chua and my loving wife, Sis. Mavic Chua. We are one of the unit leaders in CFC London A Chapter.

We are here before you tonight to share a journey — one that has spanned over two decades in Couples For Christ. It is a story not of merits or titles, but of a profound lesson that God has etched into our hearts: true leadership is about serving with love and humility. We've learned to silence the voice that seeks recognition and, instead, focus on the one thing that truly matters: deepening our relationship with God and with all of you, our brethren.

Our journey began in 1996 when I completed the Christian Life Program (CLP) for Singles For Christ (SFC) in Batangas City. My future wife, however, became an SFC member two years later in Barcelona in 1998. After graduating from college, I moved to Spain in 1999. It was there, serving in the church choir, that our paths finally crossed.

Mavic: As we became more active in SFC, our roles in the community brought us closer. I was the unit head of SFC that time, and he was one of my household leaders. Our time together led to intimate conversations, and soon, our friendship blossomed into a beautiful romance.

In 2001, we were married and began our service as a couple in Couples For Christ. We started as members, but God had bigger plans. Just one year later, we were called to lead as CFC household leaders.

While serving as household leaders, we were given the opportunity to serve in our youngest ministry, Kids For Christ (KFC), as couple coordinators for five years. We cherished the memories we shared with the kids and the younger generations. We led a team to the European Kids Village (EKV) held in Rome, Italy; Marseilles, France; and Frankfurt, Germany. We also attended several European conferences and leaders' training.

Working with our senior and junior kids required a lot of patience and humility. We learned that to deal effectively with parents and guardians, one must set aside their ego.

Francis: In 2006, we were discerned to be the Chapter Leaders in our area. At that time, CFC in Barcelona was just one area, so I was the Area Head. It was a challenging role. As Chapter Leaders, we were also the mission and support coordinators, handling the finances, the tithes and other administrative tasks for CFC Barcelona. We managed everything well until a storm hit our community in 2007.

That was when CFC was divided into two groups: CFC GLOBAL (our present CFC) and CFC FFL (now MFC, Missionaries For Christ). We had to make a difficult decision: align ourselves with only one group.

During our General Assembly, where we had to make a decision, the governance team recommended that the assembly choose CFC GLOBAL based on a prior vote. The body then voted to decide which group to align with. Out of more than 70 attendees, only four members voted against the recommendation, making it a majority decision to choose CFC GLOBAL. Everything seemed to go well until the closing prayer, when the four members voiced their decision not to join us. They said they had to align themselves with the other group.

It was very hard for me to accept this. My aim was to maintain the unity of the group, and I felt it was my failure that CFC Barcelona was divided. I was heartbroken and cried a lot. However, this experience was a clear reminder that our ways are not always God's ways and that He has other plans. It humbled me to realize that even when we are in a leadership position, the Lord is always in control and will decide what is best for His people. With humility, we were able to accept the reality that we would be two separate groups journeying toward holiness.

Mavic: After our term as Chapter Leaders, we were called to a new mission: serving as the SFC Coordinators for three years. As members of the governance team, our most challenging and humbling task was opening a new area in Girona, a province in Catalunya. We also became the Area Coordinator of Girona, traveling there twice a month to look after our new brethren.

Just one year later, we celebrated a monumental victory for God's kingdom. We convinced three couples — all of whom were Protestants (Seventh Day Adventist) — to take their sacred marriage vows in a "kasalang bayan," or community wedding sponsored by Couples For Christ Barcelona. This wasn't just an achievement; it was a testament to the power of our shared faith. 

An accomplishment like this could have easily led us to seek praise and acknowledgment, but it taught us a more profound lesson: our purpose is not to chase glory for ourselves but to serve others for the glory of God alone.

Francis: In 2016, I made the difficult decision to leave Barcelona for London, seeking what many call "greener pastures." But leaving wasn't just about a new job; it was about leaving behind my service and the community of CFC that I had poured my life into.

The timing made it even harder. The top leadership was in the process of restructuring the national governance of Spain, and I knew I was a strong candidate to become the Country Head. The temptation to stay and to lead was powerful.

Yet, once again, God called me to a deeper level of humility. He asked me to let go of everything I had established and to return to the very beginning. To go back to basics. I had to surrender my plans and the position I could have had. This was a test of faith, a moment where I had to choose God's path over my own.

While I was in London, my wife continued to serve as the coordinator for the Handmaids of the Lord in Barcelona. In 2018, she and our children made the brave move to join me. The transition was a difficult one for all of us, but we eventually settled into our new life and began a new adventure together in London.

Mavic: As a couple in London, we began as members in a new CFC household. After years of juggling countless responsibilities in Spain, this period felt like a "honeymoon" in service — a chance to simply focus on our household and our own spiritual growth.

But our “honeymoon” was short-lived. Just one year later, we were called to become Household Leaders, and a year after that, we took on the roles of Unit Leaders for the London A Chapter. As if that weren't enough, I also now serve as the Chapter Head of the Handmaids of the Lord.

Truly, God has been so good to us. Through every twist and turn of our journey in the CFC community, He has drilled one powerful lesson into our hearts: leadership is about being a servant. This isn't just a role; it's a calling to serve, not to be served. It's a humbling act that strips away the need for recognition and replaces it with a burning desire to know God's will above our own.

Francis: If we were to step back or turn away from the community, someone else would take our place because this is not our work; it is the Lord's work. God’s work will continue, and CFC will continue, regardless of whether we are in or out. Long after we are gone — from this generation to generations yet to come! CFC will continue! God is great, all the time! 

May God be praised!

A Step Back in Time

Last Saturday, my family and I took our first-ever trip to Canterbury. We set out with a simple goal: to dive deep into the roots of one of the UK’s most storied and historic cities.

Walking through Canterbury feels like stepping directly into the Middle Ages. The city’s core is a labyrinth of timber-framed buildings and cobblestone streets that have stood the test of time.

We began our morning at the iconic Canterbury Cathedral. While we opted to admire it from the outside (the entry fee for a family can be a bit steep!), the Gothic facade is nothing short of breathtaking. As a UNESCO World Heritage site, it’s best known as the site of the infamous 1170 AD assassination of St. Thomas Becket, the Archbishop who clashed with King Henry II. Even from the precinct, you can feel the weight of centuries of pilgrimage.

Next, we visited the Catholic Church of St. Thomas of Canterbury. This was a hidden gem—entry was free, and the interior was deeply moving. We were fortunate enough to see the relics of St. Thomas Becket, including a piece of his bone and a fragment of his burial vestment.

Surprisingly, the church also houses a relic of St. Oscar Romero, a garment he wore during Mass. Seeing such significant artifacts in such an intimate setting was a powerful experience for all of us.

After lunch, we took to the water for a River Stour cruise. Floating down the river for an hour offered a unique perspective of the city. Our guide was wonderful, expertly balancing hard historical facts with the local "gossip" and legends that make Canterbury’s past feel alive.

We made sure not to miss Greyfriars Chapel, which holds the distinction of being the first Franciscan monastery built in England (dating back to 1267). It’s a unique structure, famously built right over a branch of the river. Inside we explored a room that had been converted into a prison cell in later years. We ended our historical tour with a peaceful stroll through the surrounding Franciscan gardens.

It was a fulfilling day for the four of us. Between the history, a bit of essential shopping, and some great local food, the trip was a perfect mix of education and entertainment. I’m certain Kayla and Keiron enjoyed the experience just as much as me and my wife did.

We’re already looking forward to our next family adventure. Where should we head next? 

Reflections on my 49th Birthday

This past Sunday, I celebrated another year of life in this world. It was a simple but meaningful celebration. My wife, our two children, and I shared a meal at SteakOut, a steak house in Harrow.

I chose steak for my birthday because it serves as a powerful reminder of my journey. I remember 2016, when I lived alone here in London, far from my family. Back then, I could only enjoy a steak when I found one at a "reduced price" at Tesco. I had to strictly limit my expenses as I planned and prepared to bring my family here. I remember one specific time when tears fell as I ate; I was overwhelmed by how good it tasted after so long without it.

Eating steak now is a choice to remember. It brings back those memories of sacrifice and the long road that led us to where we are today.

Kidding aside, I am so grateful for the countless blessings I have received. The Lord has been so generous to me throughout my 49 years on earth. In just one more year, I will reach the milestone of 50.

First and foremost, I thank God for my health and for the gift of life itself. I am in awe of how every part of my body functions as one.

My Heart: It has never failed to beat continuously for 49 years. “Heart, if you hear me, please don’t get tired of beating.” 

My Blood: Flowing through every part and system of my body. “Blood, flow smoothly... no highs... no lows... just smoothly.” 

My Brain: Which allows me to think and do both wondrous and silly things at the same time. “Brain, it's fine to be anxious... just don't be damaged.” 

My Lungs: They never tire of pumping air in and out to keep me breathing. “Lungs, inhale... exhale...”

I thank the Lord for all my internal organs, big and small, each working toward a specific purpose to make my whole being function perfectly. I thank Him for being one of His unique creations. I can proudly say, "I am created in His own image and likeness." Though I am unworthy, I thank God for adopting me as His son and allowing me to share in His divinity. Thank you, Lord!

I am so blessed to have my family. I have a wife who is incredibly loving and caring. My two children, Kayla and Keiron, are my constant inspiration—the reason I continue to move forward and work hard every day.

I am grateful for the job that sustains us and allows me to provide for them. I embrace the role of being a father who protects his family and the "priest" who leads them in worship and our shared Catholic faith. I am truly overwhelmed by these blessings.

As I look forward to my 50th birthday next year, I pray that the Lord will continue to guide me, bless me, and let His face shine upon me.

I love you, Lord, with all my heart, mind, and soul. Keep me strong. Keep me well. Keep me alive. I am yours, and You are mine!

The Little Way: A Big Miracle

 

I have always believed in miracles. To me, they are more than just stories; they are gifts of the Holy Spirit. Yet, for most of my life, I felt like a spectator—waiting for an event that I could truly call my own "miracle." Of course, I know that simply waking up with a functioning body and a beating heart is a miracle in itself, but I was searching for that extraordinary spark—a moment of undeniable divine intervention.

Then came last Sunday.

My wife and I began our morning at our local parish, St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Harrow. There is a specific kind of peace that comes with the Sunday Eucharist; it is a blessing that feels new every single week. After the Mass, a quiet nudge in my heart led me to the parish shop. I was looking for something specific: a small figurine of St. Thérèse of Lisieux, the "Little Flower."

I’ve always felt a deep connection to her. In fact, I even named our Unit Household WhatsApp group after her. Her philosophy—the "Little Way"—has become my own guiding principle: the idea that doing small, seemingly insignificant things with great love can lead to holiness. I wanted a small image of her to keep on my altar as a constant reminder of that humility.

Unfortunately, the lady at the counter shook her head. They didn't have any. I walked out feeling a sting of disappointment, wondering why such a simple request felt so out of reach.

Later that afternoon, duty called again. We are part of the choir at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in West Hendon, and we were scheduled for the 6:00 PM Mass. I’ll admit, a small, tired part of me thought, Two Masses in one day? Is that too much? But we love our service, so we pushed through the fatigue and went.

The moment I stepped through the doors of St. Patrick’s, my heart stopped.

There, on a small table right at the entrance, sat a figurine of St. Thérèse of Lisieux. Beside it was a sign: "Feel free to take the statue. It's complimentary."

I stood there, completely perplexed. In the morning, I was willing to pay for a tiny, humble version of her. By the afternoon, the Lord was giving me a beautiful, large statue for free.

Some might call it a coincidence. But consider the odds: of all the thousands of saints in the Church, and of all the days someone could have chosen to leave that gift behind, it happened on the very day I was searching for her. It wasn’t a chance; it was a personal message. It was a miracle.

I took a photo of her right then and there. This encounter is now forever engraved in my soul—a tangible manifestation of His love. I went looking for a small reminder of faith, and He gave me something much bigger.

Miracles happen every day, from the moment we open our eyes to the moment we rest our tired bodies. Sometimes, you just have to keep walking until you find the one waiting for you at the door.

St. Thérèse of the Child Jesus has a home now. Please pray for us!

When the Body Slows, the Soul Wakes Up

I've reached a stage in my life where I'm no longer concerned with my career. What matters most to me now is cherishing every moment I have with my family, living in the present, and creating memorable experiences. Time is indeed a precious gift, and it's humbling to realize that it's running out—not in the sense that I'm dying, but in the sense that getting old can be challenging to cope with. I'm starting to feel more frequent toothaches, it's easier to gain weight than to lose it, and I'm becoming tired more often from a simple walk. My body just can't keep up with what my brain wants to do anymore. I think aging is taking a toll on me physically, but mentally, my mind remains strong.

I believe our health is directly proportional to time; when your health fails, your time is up. That's why I feel the need to make the best of the time I have left and not wait until retirement to enjoy life. My dad passed away just four years after he retired, and he spent the last year of his life almost bedridden. Waiting for retirement to start experiencing a quality life is a big mistake. We need to live in the present and cherish the time we have with our family and loved ones. We shouldn't dwell on the past or live with regrets about what we haven't accomplished, nor should we worry about the future and its uncertainties. Instead, we should enjoy our present moments while they last.

To those of you in your late 40s, our prime may have passed, but our minds are still strong and in control. It's never too late. Do what you love to do today and don't delay! There's still time left as long as we have our present. Live to the fullest.

With all this in mind, we must never forget that God is the one who made us. He is the one who gave us this precious time and these moments. He made us who we are today and gave us everything we have in our lives. That's why in all the things that we do, we should offer them to God Almighty. Prioritize Him and spend more time with Him. At the end of our day here on earth, at our very last breath, that will be the start of our very first breath in heaven. Eternal life is waiting for us. That is the goal we should all be striving for: a life with Jesus, the King of Glory, forever!  

English Breakfast Saved the Saturday!

Our Saturday mornings usually follow a very predictable, quiet routine. I’m typically the early bird, waking up around 8:00 AM to prepare my fresh brewed coffee and to sizzle my go-to breakfast: toasties with two sunny-side-up eggs. My wife usually joins the world between 9:00 and 10:00 AM, while our kids, Kayla and Keiron, are sleeping like a log after staying up way too late the night before! It’s our "usual" stuff—a standard, slow Saturday.

But this past Saturday, I decided to shake things up!

I thought to myself, Why not ditch the routine and dive into a massive, traditional English Breakfast as a family? If you aren't familiar, a "Full English" (lovingly known as a fry-up) is the ultimate morning feast. We’re talking fried eggs, succulent pork sausages, crispy back bacon, baked beans, grilled tomatoes, and sautéed mushrooms. Throw in some black pudding, fried bread, buttered toast, and golden hash browns, and you’ve got a meal fit for royalty! Served with a hot cup of tea or coffee, it’s pure comfort on a plate.

I couldn't wait!

I rushed upstairs to wake the kids, telling them to get dressed quickly because we were heading out for a feast. Here’s a pro-tip for parents: if you want to motivate teenagers without any pushback, offer them amazing food! While teens these days can be so focused on their own gadgets and the worlds, the promise of a delicious breakfast is the one thing that guaranteed their attention.

We headed to our local diner and executed the plan perfectly. And let me tell you, it was a massive success! Every single one of us cleared our plates. But the best part wasn't just the bacon and eggs; it was the conversation. We laughed, caught up on their school lives, and chatted about everything they’ve been up to lately. It felt like our family bond was totally renewed, even in just that short hour together.

It turns out that a Full English Breakfast was exactly what we needed!

The Gift of a Mother's Love: A Birthday Tribute

The weight of unspoken words hangs heavy in my heart. I, a man of few words, struggle to express the depth of my love for my mother. Though a simple phone call lies within easy reach, connecting us across the miles that separate Barcelona from my own life, I often find myself hesitant. Is it a fear of uttering empty pleasantries? Am I simply too engaged in the whirlwind of my own existence? Perhaps.

My childhood was a tapestry woven with threads of longing. At the tender age of ten or eleven, I witnessed my mother depart for Spain, leaving a gaping hole in my young heart. The absence of her maternal embrace cast a long shadow over my formative years. I grappled with a sense of detachment, adrift in a sea of unfamiliar emotions. There were periods, I confess, when the very memory of her faded, as if I were a solitary island, forced to weather life's storms alone. My father, God rest his soul, provided an inconstant presence, but it was a different kind of love, a unique story to tell someday if God's willing.

My mother, with a firm determination, toiled tirelessly to pave the way for our education back in the Philippines. Her sacrifices fuelled my academic pursuits, culminating in my college degree – a testament to her tireless hard work. In 2000, she guided my footsteps to Barcelona, a city that would become the backdrop for my own journey of self-discovery, the foundation upon which I built my family and forged a future.

Looking back, I may harbour a few "what ifs," a yearning to alter certain choices along the winding path of my life. Yet, I embrace the totality of my experiences, the triumphs and the missteps alike. This life, with all its imperfections, is the one I chose, the one I was destined to live. And for that, I am eternally grateful to my mother. Without her love and support, my life would be an entirely different, and undoubtedly, a far less fulfilling story.

My mother is not without her flaws. Her spirit, at times, can be a formidable force, challenging to navigate, my siblings can attest to that. But these imperfections are merely facets of her complex and vibrant personality. She sacrificed countless dreams for the sake of her children, her steadfast love extending to my own children and my wife.

Today, on her 71st birthday, I wish to honour the extraordinary woman who shaped my destiny. Words, however fluent, seem inadequate to express the profound gratitude I feel. I simply want her to know that the man I am today is a direct reflection of her enduring love and unwavering support.

Happy Birthday, Mom. May the Lord bless you with an abundance of joy, peace, and good health. May His face shine upon you and grant you His amazing grace. Amen.

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A Day of Health and Hope

Last Monday, I decided to take a much-needed break. A looming GP appointment, scheduled for the afternoon, prompted me to clear my entire day. While the morning might have seemed dull, it was surprisingly productive. I managed to coordinate with the gas engineer for my annual inspection, ensuring a smooth and efficient process.

However, beneath the surface of a seemingly ordinary day, a wave of anxiety was brewing. My primary concern was the rapid spread of eczema on my left ankle. This, coupled with recent episodes of nighttime breathing difficulties, had me worried. Given my history of high blood pressure, I knew that these new symptoms could potentially complicate my health. The added inconvenience of frequent nighttime trips to the bathroom, a possible sign of an enlarged prostate, further intensified my worries. As I prepared for my appointment, I couldn't shake off a sense of unease. But I chose to trust God for divine intervention, hoping for the best.

The appointment itself was brief but comprehensive. I underwent an ECG and provided blood and urine samples for testing. The doctor prescribed medication for my eczema and emphasized the importance of regular exercise and weight loss.

Two days later, I received the results: all clear! A wave of relief washed over me. I was grateful that the tests had revealed no serious underlying conditions. It was a clear reminder that our health is our greatest asset, and we must prioritize it.

I encourage all of you to make regular check-ups a part of your routine. Early detection and timely intervention are crucial in maintaining good health. Let's cherish the gift of life and strive for a healthier, happier future.

God bless!

By the way, I chose this image of Cywen, my sleepy companion, for this blog. She basically turned me into a human cat bed that day after my GP appointment.

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Eleven Years Later... A Resurgence

It feels like a lifetime ago. Eleven long years. A decade and a year of silence. A digital void. Yet, here I am, dusting off the cobwebs of this forgotten corner of the internet. A stroke of luck, perhaps, that this little space I once called my own still exists, untouched by the relentless march of time.

A surge of nostalgia washes over me as I sit down to craft these words. The familiar hum of the keyboard, the blank page beckoning me to fill it with thoughts and dreams. It's as if an old friend has returned, inviting me to rekindle a passion long thought vanished.

The satisfaction of creating something from nothing is a feeling I had almost forgotten. To weave together fragments of my thoughts, experiences, and emotions into a coherent narrative is a relieving experience. Each keystroke is a brushstroke, painting a picture of my soul onto the canvas of the digital world.

A part of me hopes that these words will linger long after I'm gone, a testament to my existence, a piece of my spirit captured in time. Perhaps, a future reader will stumble upon these pages, finding comfort, inspiration, or simply a moment of connection.

To those of you who have chosen to accompany me on this journey, I am eternally grateful. Your presence, your silent understanding, and your occasional feedback have been a source of immense encouragement. By sharing a piece of yourself with me, you've become a part of my story.

May these words inspire you to live life to the fullest, to chase your dreams, and to embrace every moment, no matter how swift. Let's journey together, hand in hand, through the labyrinth of life, leaving a positive impact on the world around us.

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A Leap of Faith

Daily Gospel: Matthew 9:27-31

As Jesus passed by, two blind men followed him, crying out, “Son of David, have pity on us!” When he entered the house, the blind men approached him and Jesus said to them, “Do you believe that I can do this?” “Yes, Lord,” they said to him. Then he touched their eyes and said, “Let it be done for you according to your faith.” And their eyes were opened. Jesus warned them sternly, “See that no one knows about this.” But they went out and spread word of him through all that land.

Reflection: A Leap of Faith

Today's gospel reading, from Matthew 9:27-31, recounts the story of two blind men who cry out to Jesus for healing. It's truly inspiring their unwavering faith, despite their disability. They believed in Jesus' power to heal them, and their belief was rewarded.

On a personal level, I can relate to this story. There have been many times in my life when I've felt lost and unable to see clearly, much like the blind men in the gospel. During these difficult moments, I've turned my eyes to Jesus, looking for guidance and strength.

It reminds me of the profound importance of faith. A faith so deep that it abides in the trust of Jesus' power to heal. This kind of faith that is essential to guide us through the stormy seas and to anchor us to the ground amidst many challenges and trials in our life.

I'm also grateful for the gift of sight, both physical and spiritual. May we all strive to have the faith of the two blind men, and to trust in God's love and divine intervention.

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A Silent Prayer and a Childlike Faith

Daily Gospel: Luke 10:21-24

Jesus rejoiced in the Holy Spirit and said, "I give you praise, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, for although you have hidden these things from the wise and the learned you have revealed them to the childlike. Yes, Father, such has been your gracious will. All things have been handed over to me by my Father. No one knows who the Son is except the Father, and who the Father is except the Son and anyone to whom the Son wishes to reveal him."

Turning to the disciples in private he said, "Blessed are the eyes that see what you see. For I say to you, many prophets and kings desired to see what you see, but did not see it, and to hear what you hear, but did not hear it."

Reflection: A Silent Prayer and a Childlike Faith

Earlier today, a touching scene unfolded before my eyes. An elderly woman, tears streaming down her face, sat a few rows behind me on the bus. She tapped her bus pass, her fingers trembling slightly. I hesitated, unsure if I should offer comfort or if it would be an intrusion. In the end, I chose silence.

Instead, I offered a silent prayer, asking God to ease her pain and provide the solace she needed. This brief encounter, though silent, resonated deeply with the Gospel reading for the day.

Jesus' words in Luke 10:21-24 struck within my soul. He praises His Father for revealing divine truths to the "little ones," those who are humble and open to God's grace. It’s a powerful reminder that true wisdom doesn’t stem from intellectual pursuits or worldly achievements. It comes from a humble heart, open to God's grace and mercy.

I often find myself caught in the trap of seeking answers and knowledge, relying on my own understanding to navigate life's challenges. However, in doing so, I neglect the most important thing: listening to God's voice and trusting in His divine plan.

Jesus encourages us to embrace a childlike faith, a faith that is pure, innocent, and totally reliant on God. It's a faith that doesn't question, but simply trusts. A faith that doesn't seek to understand, but accepts God's will without reservation.

As I reflect on this experience, I am reminded of the power of prayer and the importance of a childlike faith. The elderly woman on the bus, and countless others like her, are seeking God's love and guidance. Let us pray for them, and for ourselves, that we may always turn to God in times of trouble and trust in His loving care.

NRSV Catholic Edition Holy Bible, Brown Leather soft

The Sacred Pit: A Place of Suffering and Hope

Daily Gospel: Luke 21:12-19

Jesus said to the crowd: “They will seize and persecute you, they will hand you over to the synagogues and to prisons, and they will have you led before kings and governors because of my name. It will lead to your giving testimony. Remember, you are not to prepare your defence beforehand, for I myself shall give you a wisdom in speaking that all your adversaries will be powerless to resist or refute. You will even be handed over by parents, brothers, relatives, and friends, and they will put some of you to death. You will be hated by all because of my name, but not a hair on your head will be destroyed. By your perseverance you will secure your lives.”

Reflection: The Sacred Pit: A Place of Suffering and Hope

The Sacred Pit, a dimly lit chamber beneath the Church of St. Peter in Gallicantu in Jerusalem, is believed to be the very place where Jesus was imprisoned the night before his crucifixion. We had the privilege of visiting this historic site in the summer of last year.

I chose this image as a reminder of the Gospel reading for today from St. Luke 21:12-19. While Jesus warned his disciples of the trials and tribulations they would face, including persecution, betrayal, and even death, He Himself experienced first-hand the harsh conditions of this small and dark chamber before His own crucifixion.

Jesus explicitly stated that his followers will be persecuted and betrayed and it will come from within, with family members and friends turning against them. But, amidst this forecast, He offers a message of hope and endurance. He assured them that not a hair on their heads will be lost, suggesting divine protection and ultimate victory.

While we may not face the same level of physical persecution as Jesus and His disciples, we still encounter trials and tribulations in our daily lives. These can range from workplace discrimination and family disagreements to social exclusion based on our beliefs.

This calls us to embrace our own cross, sharing in Christ's suffering and trusting in God's control, even in the darkest of times. With God's grace, we can overcome any obstacle. By reflecting on these verses, we can draw strength and inspiration to face whatever challenges may come our way.

A Lesson in True Generosity

Daily Gospel: Luke 21:1-4

When Jesus looked up he saw some wealthy people putting their offerings into the treasury and he noticed a poor widow putting in two small coins. He said, “I tell you truly, this poor widow put in more than all the rest; for those others have all made offerings from their surplus wealth, but she, from her poverty, has offered her whole livelihood.”

Reflection: A Lesson in True Generosity

Today's Gospel reading from St. Luke paints an intense picture of a poor widow who, with humble faith, offered two small coins to God at the temple. As Jesus observed this act of selfless devotion, He praised her offering, declaring that she had given more than all the wealthy people who had cast large sums into the treasury. These wealthy individuals, with their abundant resources, had merely given a fraction of their wealth. In contrast, the widow had given her all. Her offering, born from a heart overflowing with love and faith, was a testament to her unwavering trust in God's providence.

This story has made me reflect deeply on my own relationship with God. Am I truly generous with Him? Do I give Him my best, or do I merely offer the scraps that are left over after I've taken care of myself? The widow's sacrifice challenges me to examine my own heart and to consider the true meaning of generosity. She, despite her poverty, gave everything she had to live on. Her act of faith was a powerful statement, a testament to the depth of her love for God. It's an absolute contrast to my own offerings, which often feel more like a token gesture rather than a heartfelt sacrifice.

This story calls me to a deeper level of commitment. It challenges me to re-evaluate my priorities and to make God the centre of my life. I'm inspired by the widow's example and I'm determined to follow her lead. I want to give my best to God, no matter the cost. I want to offer Him my 4 T's (time, talents, treasures and testimonies). I want to love Him with all my heart, mind, and soul.