Do you give justice to the goodness of God?

(January 30, 2012 Reflection, re-posted)

In the Philippines, there's an association of Religious Brothers.  As a religious brother before, I attended a national convention of this association in Bacolod sometime in the late 1990s.  One of the speakers was a brother from Davao. Since he had knowledge that I can play musical instruments, he asked me play the guitar while another brother sang a song as part of his speech.  While practicing, he asked to compose a song about the life of brothers.  I just smiled.  But this brother was so serious that he jokingly commented, but I think he was really serious, that I am not giving justice to the talent God has given me.  Boom!!! It was long time ago but I could still remember his words. 

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I remember this incident in relation to the gospel reading of today (Mark 4:21-25)  .  Jesus asked this question, "Is a lamp brought in to be put under a bushel, or under a bed, and not on a stand?"  Jesus was telling us that if you are given a gift you should not just hide it but share.  It is like goodness.  An act of charity can never be charity at all when not extended to others. 

Our gospel today is a command, not a reminder.  The world needs people who will be models, not just preachers.   The culture of death is pulling down the spirit of goodness.  It is not enough that as Christians we remain hidden in our own shell.  We cannot just ignore the injustices that are happening around.   We need witnesses who will become lights to the world.

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The Church needs Christians who will put their lambs outside so that many people will be enlightened to the values of the gospel.  In Mindanao, Philippines, the Basic Ecclesial Communities (BECs) are growing.  This is the hope of the Church.  On the other hand, there are also other groups within the Church which provide spiritual nourishment to the people.  

We can count some of these like the Couples for Christ, Bukas Loob ng Diyos, Focolare, Charismatic Group, Parish Renewal Experience, and many more.  Moreover, another group is gaining support and drawing more and more people.  It is The Feast.  Founded by Bo Sanchez, the feast is a gathering of people from all walks of life.  This is a gathering of sinners and saints.  So many people are blessed because of this community.  The Feast is done every Sunday with the biggest group meeting at PICC, Manila.  To date there are already 70 Feasts all over the world.

Bo Sanchez puts his light outside so that many people will see God.  So that there will be more lights, Bo multiplies himself by developing leaders, preachers and feast builders.  His vision is to build 1,000 feasts all over the world.

In our individual lives, we are also called to be the light for others.
Do you have talents?  Share.
Do you have unlimited load?  Forward nice quotes or Bible verses.
Do you possess writing skills?  Write about God, love, kindness, charity and compassion.  Write about good news.
Do you like talking?  Preach.
Do you have a family? Love
Do you follow God's will?  Be the light for others.
Give justice to God's goodness to you.

May your dreams be blessed.

Randy T.