NOVENA TO GOD'S LOVE

NoVENA To GoD’S loVE

 

“How happy are those who have no doubts about me.” – Luke 7:23

 

Early in January 2007, Bo Sanchez, founder of the Light of Jesus, announced that he was planning to make the Feast, the community’s monthly prayer meeting, a weekly gathering. In March that year, it happened. And in another couple of months, the weekly gathering was being held in two sessions. Also early in January, Bo dared the Feast attendees to write down their seven dreams for the year. He composed the Novena to God’s Love, printed it into a small pamphlet where you can write down your dreams and distributed the novena to the attendees. And he led the attendees in praying the novena week after week.

By January 2008, many attendees were already testifying that their dreams were coming true. So Bo had the small Feast Bulletin enlarged so that the miracles could be printed to inspire others to believe that their dreams can come true.

Only God knows what Bo will dare do next. But we all know he sure is one happy guy and he has made so many happy because, as Jesus says in today’s Gospel, you will be happy if you have no doubt about Him.Cynthia Santiago

 

REFLECTION:

Do you still doubt that Jesus can do wonders for you?

 

Jesus, grant me the grace to believe and have steadfast faith in You!

 

 

JOy At the stARt Of the misA de gAllO

 

A surge of joy and cheer greets us today — since early dawn in fact, thanks to the start of the Misa de Gallo today. Not only that, but today is also the National Youth Day for the Catholic Church in the Philippines. Ever young at heart, we therefore shift to higher gear starting today in our Advent preparation. This is such a lovely tradition, the Misa de Gallo or Aguinaldo Masses, quite unique to our country. In fact, special concessions have been made for the Catholic Church here in the Philippines, as far as the liturgy is concerned. Truly it is one of our most cherished traditions and a very impressive expression of Filipino Catholic faith.

Joys and wonders are all around us; we just have to look around and open our eyes. Nay more, we just have to be more aware. As narrated in our Gospel episode today, even John the Baptizer, no less, fell to “missing the point” about Jesus the Messiah, as he sent two of his disciples to Jesus (for them to verify the identity and mission of Christ). Was it because of some doubt or disillusionment on the part of John the Baptizer? But even if it were so, we can only admire him even more for his candor and sincerity.

And Jesus was equally honest and sincere as well. He told John’s emissaries to go back and report to him the various signs and wonders taking place through Christ’s ministry, in fulfillment of the Old Testament prophecies. That should be proof or evidence enough to erase John’s doubts.

As we partake in the many opportunities for cheer and merriment around us these days (as well as in a deeper bliss and blessedness — not just partying and fun!), let all of them be positive indicators of God’s joyful presence. And finally, we take advantage today to renew our commitment in the Faith, through our active and ardent participation in the liturgy. If even the extra effort in waking up early at dawn will spur us, then let it be so. Fr. Martin Macasaet, SDB

 

Reflection Question:

What is the source of my joy these days? Is it because of God’s presence in my life?  Or is it because of the mad rush for Christmas?

 

Lord Jesus, I open myself to the real joy and peace that can only come from You.

 

St. Adelaide, Widow, pray for us.