Sunday Homily

27th Sunday in Ordinary Time (October 6th, 2024)

Inseparable love (By Fr John)

Modern society faces many challenges, but there are two issues in particular that warrant special attention. The first issue is that many young people today choose to remain single and are not considering marriage. Recently, I asked five of my friends about their views on marriage; out of the five, four are unmarried and still prefer to live a single life. Their reasoning is that they can spend a large portion of their income on things they enjoy. The remaining friend has been divorced and is currently living a single life as well. The second issue is the increasing divorce rate in many countries and societies today.

Likewise, even for married couples, there are many challenges. Marriage is sometimes compared to a “battlefield,” and maintaining a relationship filled with both love and conflict is not easy. There are various concerns that arise between couples. Each time a problem emerges, they might wonder: “Should I continue like this or should I escape?” “Does my partner still love me?” “What is our financial situation?” “Is my partner cheating on me?” If issues such as personality differences, disparities in daily habits, how to allocate time with the children, and the need for personal space remain unresolved, the relationship may deteriorate, ultimately leading to thoughts of divorce. As a result, we see many singles around us, and those who choose to divorce are not few. How should we address this issue? And how can we keep the freshness in married life?

In today’s First Reading (Genesis 2:18-24), after God created man, He said, “It is not good for the man to be alone.” So, He created a woman from one of his ribs, saying, “I will make a helper suitable for him.” In fact, man was not in a complete state, as he lacked one rib. The woman was created to complete man. She is the rib closest to man’s heart, representing the most precious part. Without a woman, man would live a life of solitude. The meaning of life is in sharing. It is only when man and woman are together that a complete world comes into being. Sharing life is what the Creator desires. Today’s Gospel also states, “Therefore, what God has joined together, let no one separate.”

In today’s Gospel (Mark 10:2-16), the Pharisees ask Jesus a question about divorce. The system of divorce in the Old Testament was meant to protect women’s rights. Throughout history and across cultures, women have often been vulnerable to social discrimination. The sustainability of marriage has always been a challenge for couples. With the development of society and economic progress, marriage faces many new issues.

In our daily lives, we need to find the power of love through marriage. The power of love is nurtured when couples continue to overcome difficulties together and reconcile. Marriage is a journey that requires the effort of both partners; it cannot be sustained by one-sided effort. When a child is born, even though it may be challenging, the sense of happiness it brings is something that a single person cannot imagine. This is the importance of the “family.” The family is a place where one is accepted despite flaws, where one can share thoughts and words, and where love resides.

Therefore, we especially offer our prayers for all families. May God bless all married couples, so they may learn to love, accept each other, and grow in their relationship. The love in marriage is something that frees people from selfishness and directs them toward each other. May our prayers bring peace and joy to all families.

26th Sunday in Ordinary Time (September 29th, 2024)

God’s Love and Grace Are Not Exclusive (By Fr. John)

In today’s first reading, the Spirit of the Lord descends not only upon the seventy elders but also upon Eldad and Medad, who were not chosen. They, too, were able to prophesy. When this was reported to Moses, he responded, “Are you jealous for my sake? I wish that all the Lord’s people were prophets and that the Lord would put his Spirit on them!” This can be understood as the Christian community needing to be open and accepting of one another. In managing the community, we should collaborate rather than centralize power. The Holy Spirit cannot be confined or limited within any structure or system. God is free and can bring forth goodness anywhere, overcoming any barriers. Wherever there is goodness, love, peace, and joy, the Holy Spirit is at work.

Jealousy over power is a constant challenge in communities, families, and companies. If we don’t overcome this issue, unity cannot be maintained, and eventually, everything will fall apart. A similar situation occurs in today’s Gospel. The disciples saw someone casting out demons in Jesus’ name, and they tried to stop him because he was not one of their followers. “Teacher, we saw someone driving out demons in your name, and we tried to stop him because he is not one of us.” But Jesus replied, “Whoever is not against us is for us.” Jesus was never an extreme religious leader. He understood the importance of respecting the different voices, especially those from the weak and the marginalized. This also makes us reflect on the existence of various religions today, but as long as they benefit people, God allows their existence, and people are free to choose their religion.

“Whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in me to stumble, it would be better for them if a large millstone were hung around their neck and they were thrown into the sea.” In many cases, words, rumors, and misunderstandings cause numerous problems and divisions, even within the Church. In families and communities, many people serve their brothers and sisters with generosity and enthusiasm, but jealousy and competition are often unavoidable. When this happens, it shows that a person’s role or work has ceased to be service and has become a means of seeking honor and rights. They become obsessed with protecting their rights and view others’ participation as an intrusion, strongly rejecting them. Any suggestions, changes, or cooperation are met with great suspicion.

In our families, Church communities, and even in our companies, we must serve one another, communicate properly, and create a good environment. This is what builds our relationship with the world. The Holy Spirit is free, and we should make our faith like living water that brings life to those around us.

25th Sunday in Ordinary Time (September 22nd, 2024)

From Power Struggles to Humble Service (By Fr John)

In our interpersonal relationships, we often encounter setbacks. Many people find it difficult to build relationships with others due to their personalities, family backgrounds, or other reasons and thus choose to avoid or isolate themselves. However, when interacting with others, our primary focus should be on whether we tend to harm others.

On the 23rd Sunday, we discussed that the best way to get along with others is to learn to listen. Listening helps us understand ourselves and others better but also enables us to hear God’s voice more clearly. However, today’s reading from the Letter of James mentions sins such as jealousy and strife, which we must not ignore. These two instincts—jealousy and strife—often control people and are the root of many evils.

In the Gospel, Jesus asks, “What were you arguing about on the way?” (Mark 9:33). The disciples were silent because their vanity had been exposed, and they felt ashamed. They realized they had made a mistake, knowing that Jesus had always opposed pursuing first place. In Jesus’ teachings, inner cultivation is crucial. While the disciples were still arguing about who was the greatest among them, Jesus re-taught them to learn from the example of a child. Only by returning to a childlike state can one truly become a disciple of Jesus and grasp His teachings.

24th Sunday in Ordinary Time (September 15th, 2024)

Where to go?

I remember a young couple getting married, full of expectations for happiness but also facing the uncertainties and challenges of the future. In marriage, no one can guarantee that their love for each other will remain unchanged forever. Naturally, various issues will arise in life. Without good communication and understanding, married life may become rocky and difficult.

When the disciples were invited to follow Jesus, they also faced tremendous challenges. Who is Jesus? Why should we follow him? Are his teachings trustworthy? Can he guarantee security in our lives? Will our endeavors succeed if we follow him? In today’s Gospel, these questions were likely on the minds of the disciples.At the shore of the Sea of Galilee, when Jesus said to them, “Follow me!” (Mark 1:17), the disciples didn’t have time to ask these questions. They were deeply drawn by Jesus’ words and gaze, and immediately left everything behind, following him without any clear goal. As a result, misunderstandings arose later on. They thought they had chosen a successful teacher, but instead found themselves following someone who was condemned and powerless to come down from the cross.

Today’s reading brings us to the heart of the Gospel of Mark, where Jesus begins to reveal his mysteries, answering the questions people had and showing his true identity. On the way, Jesus asked the disciples two questions: the first was, “Who do people say I am?” and the second, more challenging one, was, “But who do you say I am?” These questions were not just about others’ perceptions of Jesus but about how the disciples themselves viewed him. However, Peter did not fully grasp the fate that awaited Jesus; he misunderstood and misjudged the situation. Therefore, Jesus rebuked Peter, saying, “Get behind me, Satan!” (Mark 8:33).

As Christians today, we must clearly understand our faith and the Jesus we follow. We cannot serve Jesus while harboring beliefs in various other deities in our hearts. Peter’s misunderstanding serves as a reminder that we should not try to get ahead of God but must first comprehend the foundation of our faith. Jesus called Peter “Satan” because Peter’s human way of thinking limited his vision, preventing him from understanding God’s plan. Deep within human nature is a tendency to “think for oneself,” putting personal interests at the center while often neglecting the welfare of others. For those who choose to follow Jesus, the first task is to step out of selfishness, abandoning the habit of making decisions centered on personal gain. Following Jesus is not just about seeing him as a model; it is about sharing in his choices, taking on his plans, and, like him, giving one’s life for the happiness of others. If we fail to understand the true meaning of being a Christian in the light of today’s Gospel, Jesus would likewise demand that we remain silent.

23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time (September 8th, 2024)

Attentive listening

22nd Sunday in Ordinary Time (September 1st, 2024)

Cultivating the Inner Self

In our daily lives, many individuals pay great attention to details. For example, before going to work, meeting friends, or attending parties, they carefully dress, wear appropriate clothing, apply perfume, and choose the right tie or shoes. Women especially focus on makeup and hairstyles. This attention to appearance is certainly beneficial in social settings, as it helps us to present ourselves well and engage effectively with others. However, if we become overly focused on our outward appearance, we may lose sight of what truly matters. Whether it’s excessive adornment or an obsession with luxury, it can come across as exaggerated. For instance, a man might own a wardrobe full of branded shoes and sneakers, or a woman might have a vanity overflowing with expensive cosmetics, many of which remain unopened. What I want to emphasize is that if someone spends too much time and energy on their appearance, they often neglect the inner self.

Jewish rabbis (teachers) were very particular about external forms and rituals. For example, before entering the temple, they strictly adhered to the rituals of washing hands and feet. Their teachings often divided people into categories of clean and unclean, righteous and sinners. However, such regulations could lead to inequality among people. In God’s eyes, these distinctions do not exist because every person is a child of God. While it is important to observe external rituals, overemphasizing them can create divisions among people. God values the consistency between a person’s inner life and their actions. Yet, we often overlook the importance of our inner selves. Qualities such as trust, faith, compassion, love, empathy, gentleness, generosity, and understanding should be our primary considerations when choosing friends, rather than how much money someone has or how luxurious their lifestyle is. A person carrying a million-dollar handbag doesn’t necessarily reflect their character; it merely shows that they might be wealthy.

In today’s Gospel, Jesus quotes the prophet Isaiah’s declaration: “These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me. They worship me in vain; their teachings are merely human rules.” (6-7) People usually judge others by their appearance, but God cares about the conversion of the heart. He declares that God is not interested in external cleanliness or impressed by formalism and the grandeur of temple rituals. Even if someone appears to be devout and regularly participates in church ceremonies, if they behave differently outside of church, these religious activities are of no real benefit to them. As Christians, we need to grow in our faith through studying the Word and participating in church activities. The Church itself is a place where we can grow spiritually. Jesus said, “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven.” Christians should constantly cultivate their inner life, becoming devout, responsible, and caring individuals. The love God gives us is not something prescribed by law but comes from our continuous listening to God’s Word, allowing it to become the seed of love in our hearts. Only then can we face challenges, speak the truth, and be people of integrity.

Finally, we pray that God grants us the strength and wisdom to become Christians who are true to both our words and deeds.

21st Sunday in Ordinary Time (August 25th, 2024)

When Life Choices Are Required

On the journey of life, we face choices every day. Many people lament that they have failed when things don’t go well, but as long as we are alive, we are constantly making choices at various crossroads, deciding which path to take. The same applies to human relationships. Sometimes, differences in opinion can lead to the end of long-standing friendships. While it is possible to start over after making a wrong choice, there are situations where we are never given a second chance because life sometimes presents us with trials where “there is only one chance.” However, this may be different from God’s perspective.

In today’s First Reading, before his death, Joshua instructs the people of Israel to serve the Lord God and abandon the foreign gods that their ancestors worshiped in Egypt and the wilderness. Joshua demands a decisive choice from the people and asks them to publicly declare which gods they will serve. After completing all his missions, Joshua passed away peacefully at the age of 110 and was buried in the hill country of Ephraim (Joshua 24:29-30). This history teaches us that when humanity stumbles in its choices, it is God showing us His love.

In the Gospel, some of the disciples who had followed Jesus for a while found His teachings hard to accept and faced a choice about whether to continue following Him. They found Jesus’ words to be “a difficult teaching,” and many of His disciples chose to leave Him. This term “difficult” implies discomfort, incompatibility, or even rejection, leading to a rupture in the teacher-disciple relationship: “As a result of this, many of His disciples turned back and no longer followed Him” (John 6:66). Accepting the truth is indeed challenging because it means denying oneself and following a new way of life. Those who cannot accept it have no choice but to abandon it, but accepting the Gospel of Jesus requires relying on God’s grace and faith. Just as Joshua did, and just as the people of Israel who heard Joshua’s instruction and the disciples who heard the Gospel of Jesus did, each of us is walking the path of pilgrimage. This path is filled with various temptations such as money, power, desires, and fame, but God repeatedly gives us the opportunity to make choices.

In our communities and churches, there are many disciples and friends like those mentioned in today’s Gospel. They are not necessarily bad people or traitors, but they tend to be easily swayed by others and may abandon their own thinking. Particularly when they are suddenly confronted with a new way of life in a familiar environment, they struggle to accept it and sometimes even reject it. What Jesus brought is new life, a new way of living. Those who truly wish to accept the Gospel must have the courage to believe in and follow Jesus. Just as participating in the Eucharist is a decision to accept Jesus’ invitation, saying “Yes” to the light and simultaneously rejecting the darkness. Choosing is indeed difficult, but what matters is that we have the courage to accept our shortcomings and weaknesses. The Eucharist is for the healing of sinners, and when we stumble, we must choose to return to God with courage. Before making significant decisions, always pray to God and learn to make the right choices.

20th Sunday in Ordinary Time (August 18th, 2024)

Keeping Hungry for Christ

Life is a precious gift from God, creating a deep connection between the divine and humanity. This gift holds immense value and requires careful nurturing to flourish. Among life’s many challenges, hunger stands out as one of the most persistent and universal. From the dawn of humanity, the concept of eating has been central. In Genesis 3:3, God commands, “You shall not eat of the fruit of the tree that is in the middle of the garden, nor shall you touch it, or you shall die.” This divine instruction underscores the significance of what we consume, both physically and spiritually.

Our daily lives revolve around hunger and eating. Physical nourishment is crucial; eating unhealthy food can lead to illness, while a balanced diet promotes health. Yet, even when our bodies are satisfied, we often find ourselves hungry for more. Humanity hungers for many things beyond mere sustenance. We crave love, friendship, success, emotional support, and wisdom. However, since life originates from God, only heavenly nourishment can truly sustain us.

Jesus addressed this spiritual hunger, saying, “Very truly, I tell you, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his blood, you have no life in you” (John 6:53). To the Hebrew people, drinking animal blood was prohibited, as blood symbolized life itself. In Moses’ time, covenants were sealed with blood. Jesus’ invitation to drink His blood may seem strange, but it emphasizes a crucial truth: “The master of life is not man himself, but God.” This new covenant is sealed by the blood of Christ.

During the Last Supper, Jesus fulfilled this promise by establishing a new covenant between God and humanity through bread and wine. He offers us spiritual food from heaven, declaring, “Those who eat my flesh and drink my blood have eternal life, and I will raise them up on the last day” (John 6:54).

Today, many Christians lack spiritual nourishment. This hunger for God cannot be satisfied by worldly substitutes; only through receiving Holy Communion can we find true sustenance. The challenge lies in allowing Christ’s body to take root in our lives, enabling others to see Him through us. Receiving the Eucharist requires more than a physical act; it demands inner devotion and openness to Christ’s nurturing presence. Before partaking in Communion, we must listen to and reflect on God’s holy word, allowing it to prepare our hearts.

As we navigate our spiritual journeys, let us cultivate a persistent hunger for Christ in our minds, hearts, and spirits. May we continually seek the bread of life, finding nourishment in God’s word and the sacraments. Through this spiritual sustenance, we can grow in faith and reflect Christ’s love to the world around us. Let us remember that our spiritual hunger is a blessing, drawing us closer to the source of all life. May we always remain hungry for Christ, for in satisfying this holy appetite, we find true fulfillment and eternal life.

The Assumption of Blessed Virgin Mary (August 11th, 2024)

19th Sunday in Ordinary Time (August 11th, 2024)

 Eternal Food (By Fr. John)

How do we cope when we are in pain? How do we face the world when we are mentally and physically exhausted? How do we respond when we encounter difficulties in life? Everyone has their own troubles in life and work, and some may choose to escape.

In today’s scripture reading, we see the prophet Elijah fleeing out of fear, journeying to Mount Horeb （the Mountain of God). He walked for forty days and forty nights, eventually conversing　with God in a cave. Isolated, he was then sent to Damascus to carry out his mission. During this journey, Elijah recognized his own fear and weakness and chose to flee. Exhausted, an angel provided him with bread and water to encourage him to continue.　Do you remember Mount Horeb? It was here that God appeared to Moses and sent him to lead the Israelites out of Egypt. Similarly, it was here that the prophet Elijah received food from an angel, symbolizing the power of life. Everyone has a mission and needs a source of strength to keep going. Friends in the Lord, what is your source of strength in life?

In today’s Gospel, the Jews initially refused to accept anything Jesus said and were prejudiced against his birth. They said, “Isn’t this Jesus, the son of Joseph? Don’t we know his father and mother? How can he say, ‘I have come down from heaven’?” We are his fellow townspeople, how can he dare to claim he is the bread of life? Is he mad? Or does he have some special privilege?

Prejudice is an ancient flaw that humans must overcome. Once you have a bias against any person or group, even if they do a thousand good deeds, you will never recognize them. This is like how Jesus performed countless miracles yet was still rejected by the Jews.

This brings me to my second question today: Do you currently harbor any prejudice against anyone or anything? Prejudice blinded the Jews, preventing them from seeing salvation and believing in what they witnessed.We know we cannot understand or see God directly; the only way is through Jesus. By observing what Jesus did, said, and taught, we can see the shadow of God. In the Old Testament, God often revealed Himself through prophets. Today, God has come among us in human form, living and walking with us. We can touch Him, listen to Him. He is Jesus of Nazareth.

Brothers and sisters in the Lord, we must first remove all prejudice and accept Jesus as our Savior. Then, by taking Jesus as the bread of life, we sustain our lives. Even in pain, exhaustion, and trouble, believing in Jesus’ teachings can help us overcome all difficulties. Jesus does not promise to solve all our problems, but He guarantees that those who partake of this bread will have eternal life. Let Jesus’ bread and words become the living water and spring of our lives.

18th Sunday in Ordinary Time (August 4th, 2024)

 Bread of Life (By Fr. John)

For thousands of years, despite the passage of time and the changing of generations, one thing has remained constant: humans age and eventually pass away. As we grow older, witnessing the departure of our grandparents and then our parents, we become more aware of this unchanging reality. However, people often avoid confronting these most fundamental truths. Today, many refuse to believe that they will eventually die. Whenever I see birds, especially crows, lined up on power lines, I often wonder if they are happier than us humans because they don’t have to worry about work yet still manage to survive.

Jesus once comforted his followers with these words from the scriptures: “Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?” Yet today, many people feel they are living less well than birds. The pressures of family and society make us forget our worth in the eyes of the Heavenly Father. Humans crave life and everything that nourishes and benefits life. However, in the pursuit of material things, people are often deceived because material possessions can never satisfy the human heart. Thus, people live in a constant state of pursuit, focusing more on material superiority. In this competitive and challenging society, life becomes increasingly intense and anxious, as we continuously strive for a better life, even comparing ourselves with those around us.

In the Gospel, we see a similar scene. The crowd followed Jesus with the simple aim of getting bread. When they realized Jesus and his disciples were not there, they got into boats and went to Capernaum in search of him. Jesus said to them, “Very truly I tell you, you are looking for me, not because you saw the signs I performed but because you ate the loaves and had your fill.” We must understand that food is not only for satisfying the body but there is also a kind of food that is the bread of eternal life. Most people focus their energy on perishable food, forgetting that the life they are trying to sustain will eventually pass away. Jesus teaches us to accumulate eternal food, meaning that this life will not die. Both food and miracles will pass away and cannot bring eternal life. Moses performed many miracles on the way to Egypt, but the Israelites still forgot them.

Jesus’ words remind us that life is not merely about pursuing material satisfaction but more importantly about seeking rest and balance for the soul. Jesus’ invitation is filled with love and care. He knows that each of us needs to find time for rest and reflection in our busy lives. He hopes that through our connection with him, we can find inner peace and strength. As he said, “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” Therefore, let us learn to pause in our busy lives, walk with Jesus, and find inner tranquility and satisfaction. Through his teachings, we can find true rest and balance in a hectic world and live a meaningful and fulfilling life.

17th Sunnday in Ordinary Time (July 27th, 2024)

Life is about Sharing (By Fr. John)

Dear brothers and sisters,

Today, I want to ask: Do you have dinner with your family? Do you chat and share your lives during dinner? In our busy lives, dining with friends is a relaxing way to unwind. Sharing a meal, having a drink, and talking about life’s joys and challenges can be wonderful. When everyone cooks their favorite dish, the variety creates a warm and harmonious atmosphere. Dining together is a sign of trust and a way to strengthen relationships.

In Genesis, Abraham’s story of entertaining guests is unforgettable: “Since you have come to your servant, let me bring you a little bread so that you may refresh yourselves, and then go on your way.” He then prepared a tender calf (Genesis 18:5, 7). Sharing a meal symbolizes friendship, trust, and acceptance. Often, awkward conflicts can be resolved through a shared meal. However, today’s concern is the silence at many family dinner tables. Many families avoid eating together, which is a significant issue. Understanding the importance of dining together can help us cherish the time spent with family and friends.

Today’s first reading is set during a severe drought. People were so hungry that they ate roots, leaves, and even poisonous things. In the Old Testament, “hunger” appears 134 times. Ancient Middle Eastern famines were frequent, and people struggled for food. Some followed Jesus just to fill their stomachs. Jesus blessed and multiplied the loaves and fishes, collecting twelve baskets of leftovers. 

The core message is about “sharing” rather than “increasing.”

We often focus on increasing material things: money, health, success, but this pursuit often leaves us feeling empty. Realizing that material things cannot solve all problems leads us to consider spiritual values. Happiness, friendship, and emotions come from sharing with others. In the miracle of the loaves, Jesus highlighted God’s gift, likening it to sharing His own life. This is another meaning of the Eucharistic celebration. When we share God’s Word, we are no longer hungry, and everyone is satisfied (Isaiah 25:6).

Abandoning selfishness and sharing generously can lead to miracles: everyone will be full, with leftovers. John tells us that the issue of material bread is closely related to the Eucharist. Sharing the Eucharistic bread without sharing material bread is hypocritical.

I hope today’s message inspires you to dine more with family and friends, share your lives, deepen your relationships, and experience and pass on love and trust.

May God bless each and every one of us.

Amen.

16th Sunday in Ordinary Time (July 21st, 2024)

Busyness (By Fr. John)

How long has it been since you spent time doing outdoor activities with your children? How long has it been since you spent time with your spouse making dinner or having dinner together? Have you ever read a book together? Have you ever prayed together? Have you ever gone to church together? Have you ever done household chores with your family? Have you ever taken a walk with your family?

These questions might make you feel confused, but their purpose is simple: to make us slow down. Many people neglect their families because they are busy. However, is “being busy” really an excuse to neglect our families? In modern society, technological advancements have made us busier. Social media, emails, instant messaging—these tools were meant to make our lives more convenient but have instead consumed our time. I see some parents give their children an iPad or phone to play with so they can have time for themselves. Sometimes, I see a family of three sitting together, each looking at their own phone, with almost no interaction. In fact, sharing everyday stories from school or work with your family is a form of enjoyment. Listening and sharing are the best ways to enhance emotions.

To achieve this, we first need to quiet our hearts, understand our life situations, and share them with those around us when necessary. Personal growth begins with self-reflection. When Jesus’ disciples returned from their work, eager to report their experiences, Jesus emphasized their need for rest—not just physical rest, but also rest for the heart and spirit. Evangelization is not about how many people get baptized or listen to sermons; it’s about planting the seed of faith and nurturing it to grow gradually. Rushing is very dangerous because faith without a foundation is easily shaken. Evangelization is not a quick training but a gradual growth process.

In the Gospel, the disciples’ enthusiasm stands out: they eagerly shared what happened and whom they met. But Jesus said, “Go to a quiet place and rest for a while.” In the wilderness, people naturally slow down, which is a time to listen to God. Maintaining a good relationship with God is very important. Here’s the key point: we see Jesus moved with compassion. Quiet times make us reflect on the original purpose and current state of our evangelization. If the disciples lose their compassion, all evangelization is meaningless. Keeping a compassionate heart is maintaining the initial enthusiasm; compassion is the greatest driving force for evangelization.

Dear brothers and sisters in Christ, each of us needs to slow down, occasionally pause, and reflect on the differences between now and our original intentions. If something is wrong, should we think about our initial selves? Let us learn to find peace in busyness and direction in peace. In our busy lives, learning to pause, reflect, and adjust not only helps us regain balance but also strengthens our relationships with our families and with God. May each of us find our moments of peace amid the busy times, and feel God’s grace and love.

15th Sunday in Ordinary Time (July 14th, 2024)

“Subtraction” By Fr. John

Modern people’s sense of happiness often comes from “I will be happy if I have this,” “I will be happy if I can afford that,” or “I will be happy if that person is my partner.” However, when Jesus chose his disciples, his teachings adopted a method of “subtraction”: “Take nothing for the journey except a staff—no bread, no bag, no money in your belts. Wear sandals but not an extra shirt.” (Mark 6:8). We might be surprised: Didn’t Jesus worry that his disciples would go hungry while working?

When we look at the life of the prophet Amos in the first reading, we can understand this. Amos was just a shepherd and a dresser of sycamore-fig trees. If Amos were to be a prophet, what basis would there be? The cost Amos brought to his preaching was a life of poverty. A life of poverty is more convincing because, in a sense, a poor person is freer and not subject to any king. If you take someone else’s possessions, can you still criticize them? When the disciples were sent out to preach the Gospel, they adopted “subtraction,” taking fewer things, whether it be wallets or clothes. This lifestyle taught them that what they needed to rely on in preaching was not the superiority brought by material possessions but the sincerity of their hearts and their trust and dependence on God. Whether in religion or society, corruption begins with the desire and pursuit of material things. Simply put, we need to balance our attitudes towards life because excessive pursuit of material things makes people lose their trust in the Lord and think that everything in the world comes from their efforts, leading to moral decay in life.

During Amos’s time, the king’s luxurious lifestyle filled the temple with injustice and deceit, and privilege. All religious ceremonies became transactions. The Lord chose Amos because he was a poor man without any weaknesses, able to preach boldly without considering the king’s face. From the life of Amos to the disciples who had nothing, a theme emerges, which is “freedom.” Someone once said that freedom is not doing whatever you want, but not having to do what you don’t want to do. Amos could preach boldly without accommodating anyone.Dependence is a common problem for everyone today. Many people find it hard to leave their phones. This does not mean that phones are bad, but we consume too much time on the internet. Phones were initially meant for better communication, but due to their presence, we gradually lose communication with our family members in real life. Another form of dependence is on others, feeling unable to be independent or live without a particular person, which is also a common problem.

Jesus’s disciples needed to be independent in both spirit and material aspects because what they truly needed to rely on was the word of God. If the disciples only liked to stay in the homes of wealthy people, enjoying good food and drinks, they might always long for a superior lifestyle and forget their mission. The dispatched disciples often went to preach about the God they firmly believed in who sent them. Because of their trust in God, they were willing to follow and share the gifts given by God with everyone. “Take nothing for the journey except a staff.” The staff symbolized trust in God. In the time of Moses, the staff represented authority and power. By preaching with authority, freeing people from the bondage of evil, this was Jesus’s message.

14th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B (July 7th, 2024)

“Thorn” By Fr. John

In 2 Corinthians 12:7, Paul mentions, “Therefore, to keep me from being too elated,  a thorn was given to me in the flesh.” This passage reveals Paul’s inner pain and struggle. He metaphorically describes this pain as a thorn, which, though unseen, pierces deeply into his heart, causing him immense suffering. Some believe this thorn refers to Paul’s illness, but from his description, it is more likely to be the friction and rejection he encountered within his missionary community.

Maintaining interpersonal relationships is the hardest, especially in Paul’s situation, dealing with many Corinthian brothers and sisters. He was rejected and even faced personal attacks. However, admirably, Paul did not defend himself with harsh words but said, “For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong.”

Dear brothers and sisters in Christ, each of us has a thorn. I like to think of this thorn as our “Achilles’ heel” or weakness. For example, when you are single, you have no worries, but once you have someone you like, that person becomes your weakness because they affect you. When you have a family, your children become your weakness.

To put it simply, for an internet celebrity with many followers, their weakness might be the limitations imposed on their online reach, which can result in losing their voice. Similarly, if someone is otherwise perfect but gets very angry when a personal topic is mentioned, that topic is their weakness—the thorn Paul mentioned.

 a thorn is not necessarily a bad thing, and it is hard to remove this thorn. It can only help you to grow. In today’s Gospel of Mark, we also see Jesus encountering obstacles, being mocked, and rejected by his own townspeople. When Jesus preached on the Sabbath, he faced great criticism and resistance, leading to resentment among his fellow townspeople. The main reason was that Jesus’ teachings were different and compared to the traditional teachings they had received for years, making them hard to accept. The Israelites focused only on strictly observing the law but lacked acts of love.

In summary, the “thorn” Paul mentioned and the rejection attitude of the Nazarenes towards Jesus both reveal some issues in human nature. People generally like to learn about others but rarely reflect on themselves. The Nazarenes were full of prejudice; their adherence to dogmatism gave them a sense of superiority and arrogance, which are the thorns. The thorn Paul mentioned also reflects the issues between the Corinthian community and Paul, highlighting human nature problems. The Israelites in Ezekiel’s time were unwilling to listen to the prophet and rejected God’s advice.

If we maintain a closed mentality, always keeping a rejecting new things we may, like the Nazarenes, view new things with prejudice and be unable to accept God’s word. Each of us has a thorn that often makes us uncomfortable and painful but also reminds us to trust in God no matter what. Let this thorn become a turning point for your growth. May we all find the source of faith and strength in the thorn and its pain, thereby truly growing.

13th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B (June 30th, 2024)

Your faith has saved you by Father John

Dear brothers and sisters, today I would like to talk about a powerful story from the Gospel of Mark. It is the story of a woman who had been suffering from bleeding for twelve years. She had seen many doctors and spent all her money, but her condition only worsened. This story speaks not only of physical healing but also of faith, hope, and the power of Jesus. In ancient Jewish society, her condition was considered ritually unclean, isolating her from normal social and religious life. Despite her suffering and setbacks, she did not give up hope. When she heard about Jesus, she saw a glimmer of hope. Driven by faith, she moved through the crowd and touched the edge of Jesus’ cloak. Immediately, she felt her body being healed. This act was not just a physical touch but a profound expression of faith. She believed in the power of Jesus when all other means had failed.

Jesus immediately felt power go out from him and turned around in the crowd, asking, “Who touched my clothes?” The disciples responded, “You see the people crowding against you, and yet you can ask, ‘Who touched me?'” But Jesus knew this touch was different; it was a touch of faith. Realizing she had been discovered, the woman came forward, trembling with fear, and told Jesus everything. Jesus’ response was gentle yet powerful: “Daughter, your faith has healed you. Go in peace and be freed from your suffering.” He not only acknowledged her healing but also praised her faith and restored her dignity by calling her “daughter.”

Today’s Gospel Teaching

Persistence in Faith:This woman’s story teaches us the importance of maintaining faith even in desperate situations. Her unwavering faith brought her healing.

The Power of Faith:Faith is not passive but actively trusts in God’s power and love. Her bold and proactive faith drove her to overcome obstacles and seek Jesus.

Jesus’ Compassion:Jesus’ response to the woman shows His compassion and willingness to heal those who seek Him with faith.

Dear brothers and sisters, encouraged by the faith of this courageous woman, let us also approach Jesus with the same faith, knowing that He will always respond to our faith, providing not only physical healing but also peace and assurance in our hearts. Let us experience how Jesus heals us and renews us in His love.

12th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B (June 23rd, 2024)

Trust in Lord you will overcome all fear

11th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B (June 16th, 2024)

The Sower – by Father John

At that time, Jesus said to the crowds,”this is how it is with the kingdom of God; it is as if a man were to scatter seed on the land and would sleep and rise night and day and through it all the seed would sprout and grow, he knows not how.”— Mark 4:26-27

In today’s Gospel, Jesus uses the parable of the seed to help us understand the truths of life. For a farmer, this parable is easy to grasp. First, the seed is very small and insignificant, but when sown into the ground, it grows into a very large plant. This illustrates that all great things start from small beginnings. A small seed holds immense potential, and the growth within the seed is astonishing. An ordinary-looking person may have rich talents hidden inside. However, society often ignores the ordinary and weak, and instead, chases after those with power.

Next, the growth of the seed is slow and requires time and patience. Progress happens little by little every day. This may also mean learning to wait. Sometimes, we need to learn to wait quietly. It is necessary to calmly watch as the seed sprouts and grows. Patiently waiting can yield a harvest beyond expectations. However, in modern society, people tend not to like waiting. They want to see results immediately. Impatience has become a common psychological issue, and people constantly expect immediate gratification to ease their restless feelings. The anxiety while waiting for a bus or the impatience to receive online orders quickly are typical examples of this. The fast food culture emphasizes results and ignores the process. Such a mindset can lead to mental illness. Many people need medication to sleep.

In today’s Gospel, Jesus uses the characteristics of a small and slowly growing seed to describe the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven. Indeed, the parable of the seed spoken by Jesus refers to the seed of the Gospel. By hearing God’s word, we can understand how to live our lives. God’s word brings hope, joy, and eternal life. Sometimes, Jesus’ words teach us that it is necessary to wait quietly. It is important to calmly watch as the seed sprouts and grows. Such waiting brings a harvest beyond expectations. Silence, meditation, and prayer are essential for waiting. We need to create a spiritual atmosphere to have time for dialogue with Christ and to accept the guidance of the Holy Spirit. We can incorporate this parable into our way of life.

We must learn to slow ourselves down in the fast-paced rhythm of life. In a slower rhythm of life, we may discover the truths of life. In short, it is not the results but the process of life that we truly need. If we do not savor life slowly, we may leave this world with nothing left. As someone once said, the beauty of life lies in the accumulation of small good experiences. Today, in particular, Jesus invites us to accept God’s word. Let this seed of the Gospel take root in our hearts, grow, and let us live and grow under God’s light, like the birds of the air nesting in its shade.

11th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B (June 16th, 2024)

The Sower – by Father John

10th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B (June 9th, 2024)

Self-Contradiction – Father John

“If a kingdom is divided against itself, that kingdom cannot stand. And if a house is divided against itself, that house will not be able to stand.” Mark 3:24-25

We have all heard the term “self-contradiction.” We experience it in ourselves and in others; there is a sense of discomfort, a feeling that something is not quite right. Our feelings and thoughts do not align within ourselves or with others. There is a disconnect. Often, we live in such an environment of self-contradiction, struggling to decide what to choose and how to live. Making the right choice is difficult. For instance, a young man and woman meet through a matchmaking arrangement and get married after a short courtship, without really knowing each other. The man, due to age and other pressures, reluctantly marries. The woman also initially feels resistance towards the man and wants to decline the marriage, but accepts it due to various reasons. As a result, within a few years, they divorced and both regretted their decision.

These feelings of resistance, rejection, contradiction, and exclusive attitudes are challenges that many people face today. This is particularly important for personal growth. Forcing oneself to do something one does not like is highly contradictory. Inner resistance and opposition prevent us from willingly accepting things. Yet, due to various external pressures, we sometimes sacrifice ourselves to accept something.

In today’s Gospel, the scribes claim that Jesus is casting out demons with the power of the devil, but their statement is self-contradictory. The devil is an evil being whose work is to create evil and contradiction. Jesus, on the other hand, brought hope, truth, beauty, and joy. Jesus indeed came into this world from the Father in heaven.

Each one of us is a child of God, born of God. Our lives should be filled with hope, joy, light, and truth. When we face choices in our daily lives, we need to listen to our inner voice. The inner voice can hear God’s voice and keep us away from contradictory feelings and choices. It is important to have the courage to say “no” to choices that do not bring joy to our hearts. This is the beginning of spiritual growth. Therefore, at the end of today’s Gospel, Jesus speaks about who his true mother, brothers, and sisters are. They are those who hear God’s word and do God’s will. Let us sincerely listen to God’s word, remove contradictions from our lives, and pray for God’s grace so that we can grow as children of God.

Contradiction (June 9th, 2024)