30/08/2026
22nd Sunday Reflection
Readings:
Jeremiah 20:7-9
Psalm 63:2, 3-4, 5-6, 8-9
Romans 12:1-2
Matthew 16:21-27
“Whoever wishes to come after me must deny himself, take up his cross, and follow me. For whoever wishes to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will find it.”
— Matthew 16:24-25
These verses bring me back to lessons under Fr. Nick Yatco, SJ, where I once got a grade of 65! That experience pushed me to exert greater effort until my final exam was almost perfect.
Reflecting on today’s Gospel calls us to a life of following Jesus, to deny ourselves, take up our cross, and put the good of others before our own. For me, this is also what service and leadership are all about.
As I mark my 9-day countdown to 60 years old, I find myself spending more time reflecting on my life and praying to God. With Mama Mary, I look back on the past and remember painful experiences, including the time when so much joy had to be set aside because the world was facing the global pandemic.
Yet I am also brought back to the many ways God has saved me. These memories bring tears, but they are tears of thanksgiving—for life, for His mercy, and for the grace to continue serving.
As I write this, we have just ended a day of Liturgical Formation of the Western Vicariate. It was such a joy to have our priests instruct us and to see lay people, both young and old, gathered together in faith.
I am reminded of Sacrosanctum Concilium, which we learned from Fr. Jeff, which teaches us about our participation and service in the sacred liturgy. At the end of the formation, we had our photos taken by parish. I could not help but admire how Fr. Armand took care of everyone, especially through our meals and his generous support, together with Fr. Marsh, Fr. Elmer, Fr. Jeff, Fr. Matt, Fr. Jun-jun the other priests, and all those who helped.
In their simple way, they showed what it means to deny personal comfort for the growth and good of others.
What an inspiring gesture of service.
May we also learn each day to deny ourselves, take up our cross, and follow Jesus.
Gracias a Dios!
(Photo: Thanks Sis Estelita)
