Message from Padre Pio
I end here because the bell is calling me and urging me... I will present you to the heavenly Father in union with his Son, to whom, for whom, and through whom I am totally yours in the Lord.
Reflection
How would I like all of this to end?
Scriptural Reading
John 19:28-30
After this, aware that everything was now finished, in order that the scripture might be fulfilled, Jesus said, "I thirst." There was a vessel filled with common wine. So they put a sponge soaked in wine on a sprig of hyssop and put it up to his mouth. When Jesus had taken the wine, he said, "It is finished." And bowing his head, he handed over the spirit.
Prayer
Father God, I fear the rest of my life, but not what comes after that. Keep me always in your guidance that I may soon hear the endless toll of the bells, the joyous songs of praise of your angels and the eternal prayers of your saints! Amen.
Sabado, Setyembre 23, 2017
Biyernes, Setyembre 22, 2017
IN UNION WITH DIVINE LOVE
Day 121
Message from Padre Pio
Finally, confess sincerely that if God were not your breastplate and shield, you would be imprudently pierced with every kind of sin.
Reflection
Have I sincerely expressed my desire, my heartfelt desire to ask God to be with me ... always?
Scriptural Reading
Ephesians 6:13-17
Therefore, put on the armor of God, that you may be able to resist on the evil day and, having done everything, to hold your ground. So stand fast with your loins girded in truth, clothed with righteousness as a breastplate, and your feet shod in readiness for the gospel of peace. In all circumstances, hold faith as a shield, to quench all [the] flaming arrows of the evil one. And take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.
Prayer
Father God, I fear of what may still happen during the remainder of my life's journey. I am still weak; it is still so easy for me to fall again. Let me cling to you, please my Lord, I beg of you. Do not leave me. I love you! Amen.
Finally, confess sincerely that if God were not your breastplate and shield, you would be imprudently pierced with every kind of sin.
Reflection
Have I sincerely expressed my desire, my heartfelt desire to ask God to be with me ... always?
Scriptural Reading
Ephesians 6:13-17
Therefore, put on the armor of God, that you may be able to resist on the evil day and, having done everything, to hold your ground. So stand fast with your loins girded in truth, clothed with righteousness as a breastplate, and your feet shod in readiness for the gospel of peace. In all circumstances, hold faith as a shield, to quench all [the] flaming arrows of the evil one. And take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.
Prayer
Father God, I fear of what may still happen during the remainder of my life's journey. I am still weak; it is still so easy for me to fall again. Let me cling to you, please my Lord, I beg of you. Do not leave me. I love you! Amen.
Huwebes, Setyembre 21, 2017
IN UNION WITH DIVINE LOVE
Day 120
Message from Padre Pio
Propose to make amends without being presumptuous, but your strength must be in God alone.
Reflection
Have I sincerely expressed in Confession my desire to change? Or do I simply say "sorry" with no clear idea on how to avoid committing the same sin again? Is it because I feel confident I will be forgiven anyway when I confess again?
Scriptural Reading
Luke 19:8-10
But Zaccheus stood there and said to the Lord, "Behold, half of my possessions, Lord, I shall give to the poor, and if I have extorted anything from anyone I shall repay it four times over." And Jesus said to him, "Today salvation has come to this house because this man too is a descendant of Abraham. For the Son of Man has come to seek and to save what was lost."
Prayer
Father God, I want to change. Punish me if you will, but I will still desire to change! I want to believe, I want to care, I want to understand, I want to love! My soul is such a mess; help me to repair it. Amen.
Propose to make amends without being presumptuous, but your strength must be in God alone.
Reflection
Have I sincerely expressed in Confession my desire to change? Or do I simply say "sorry" with no clear idea on how to avoid committing the same sin again? Is it because I feel confident I will be forgiven anyway when I confess again?
Scriptural Reading
Luke 19:8-10
But Zaccheus stood there and said to the Lord, "Behold, half of my possessions, Lord, I shall give to the poor, and if I have extorted anything from anyone I shall repay it four times over." And Jesus said to him, "Today salvation has come to this house because this man too is a descendant of Abraham. For the Son of Man has come to seek and to save what was lost."
Prayer
Father God, I want to change. Punish me if you will, but I will still desire to change! I want to believe, I want to care, I want to understand, I want to love! My soul is such a mess; help me to repair it. Amen.
Miyerkules, Setyembre 20, 2017
99th Year Anniversary of the Receiving of the Stigmata of Saint Padre Pio
Today is the 99th year anniversary of the receiving of the stigmata of Saint Padre Pio.
On September 20, 1918, accounts state that the pains of the transverberation had ceased and Padre Pio was in "profound peace." On that day, as Padre Pio was engaged in prayer in the choir loft in the Church of Our Lady of Grace, the same Being who had appeared to him and given him the transverberation, and who is believed to be the Wounded Christ, appeared again, and Padre Pio had another experience of religious ecstasy. When the ecstasy ended, Padre Pio had received the visible stigmata, the five wounds of Christ. This time, the stigmata were permanent. They stayed visible for the next fifty years of his life.
In a letter to Padre Benedetto, his superior and spiritual advisor from San Marco in Lamis, dated October 22, 1918, Padre Pio describes his experience of receiving the stigmata:
On the morning of the 20th of last month, in the choir, after I had celebrated Mass I yielded to a drowsiness similar to a sweet sleep. [...] I saw before me a mysterious person similar to the one I had seen on the evening of 5 August. The only difference was that his hands and feet and side were dripping blood. This sight terrified me and what I felt at that moment is indescribable. I thought I should have died if the Lord had not intervened and strengthened my heart which was about to burst out of my chest. The vision disappeared and I became aware that my hands, feet and side were dripping blood. Imagine the agony I experienced and continue to experience almost every day. The heart wound bleeds continually, especially from Thursday evening until Saturday. Dear Father, I am dying of pain because of the wounds and the resulting embarrassment I feel deep in my soul. I am afraid I shall bleed to death if the Lord does not hear my heartfelt supplication to relieve me of this condition. Will Jesus, who is so good, grant me this grace? Will he at least free me from the embarrassment caused by these outward signs? I will raise my voice and will not stop imploring him until in his mercy he takes away, not the wound or the pain, which is impossible since I wish to be inebriated with pain, but these outward signs which cause me such embarrassment and unbearable humiliation....the pain was so intense that I began to feel as if I were dying on the cross.
Saint Padre Pio of Pietrelcina, pray for us.
IN UNION WITH DIVINE LOVE
Day 119
Message from Padre Pio
Wash your imperfections and falls with sincere tears of contrition... which will always be greater than your ingratitude.
Reflection
Have I ever cried in Confession?
Scriptural Reading
Psalm 137:1,5-6
By the rivers of Babylon we sat mourning and weeping when we remembered Zion. ... If I forget you, Jerusalem, may my right hand wither. May my tongue stick to my palate if I do not remember you, if I do not exalt Jerusalem beyond all my delights.
Prayer
Father God, I deserve this misery! I deserve all this for having so lazy, so forgetful, so negligent! I deserve all this for refusing to believe, for refusing to care, for refusing to love! I deserve all this for having so insatiable! I deserve to be punished! Please Lord, please Lord, do not forget me! Help me! Amen.
Wash your imperfections and falls with sincere tears of contrition... which will always be greater than your ingratitude.
Reflection
Have I ever cried in Confession?
Scriptural Reading
Psalm 137:1,5-6
By the rivers of Babylon we sat mourning and weeping when we remembered Zion. ... If I forget you, Jerusalem, may my right hand wither. May my tongue stick to my palate if I do not remember you, if I do not exalt Jerusalem beyond all my delights.
Prayer
Father God, I deserve this misery! I deserve all this for having so lazy, so forgetful, so negligent! I deserve all this for refusing to believe, for refusing to care, for refusing to love! I deserve all this for having so insatiable! I deserve to be punished! Please Lord, please Lord, do not forget me! Help me! Amen.
Martes, Setyembre 19, 2017
IN UNION WITH DIVINE LOVE
Day 118
Message from Padre Pio
When you fall, do not stay there prostrated in body and spirit. Humble yourself greatly but without being discouraged. Lower yourself without degrading yourself.
Reflection
When I am inclined to sin, am I more fearful of the social stigma when I am caught than of God's justice? If caught, am I more fearful of not gaining back my reputation, than of trying to gain God's mercy? If caught, am I more preoccupied with making excuses than going to sacramental Confession?
Scriptural Reading
Romans 8:14-17
For those who are led by the Spirit of God are children of God. For you did not receive a spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you received a spirit of adoption, through which we cry, Abba, "Father!" The Spirit itself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, then heirs, heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ, if only we suffer with him so that we may also be glorified with him.
Prayer
Father God, now I understand that humility recognizes your supremacy as well as your loving desire to fill me with what I have lost in disobedience. I need not lose hope and wallow in the mire of self-disintegration because I need not prop myself up. You are always there for me, to make me a precious child again and to lead me to your kingdom where you live forever and ever. Amen.
When you fall, do not stay there prostrated in body and spirit. Humble yourself greatly but without being discouraged. Lower yourself without degrading yourself.
Reflection
When I am inclined to sin, am I more fearful of the social stigma when I am caught than of God's justice? If caught, am I more fearful of not gaining back my reputation, than of trying to gain God's mercy? If caught, am I more preoccupied with making excuses than going to sacramental Confession?
Scriptural Reading
Romans 8:14-17
For those who are led by the Spirit of God are children of God. For you did not receive a spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you received a spirit of adoption, through which we cry, Abba, "Father!" The Spirit itself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, then heirs, heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ, if only we suffer with him so that we may also be glorified with him.
Prayer
Father God, now I understand that humility recognizes your supremacy as well as your loving desire to fill me with what I have lost in disobedience. I need not lose hope and wallow in the mire of self-disintegration because I need not prop myself up. You are always there for me, to make me a precious child again and to lead me to your kingdom where you live forever and ever. Amen.
Lunes, Setyembre 18, 2017
IN UNION WITH DIVINE LOVE
Day 117
Message from Padre Pio
Place your heart in the open side of the Savior and unite it with the King of the hearts who is within it as on a royal throne, in order that he might receive homage and obedience from all other hearts.
Reflection
How can I be a true martyr, an effective witness of the love of God?
Scriptural Reading
2 Corinthians 12:9-10
But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for power is made perfect in weakness." I will rather boast most gladly of my weaknesses, in order that the power of Christ may dwell with me. Therefore, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and constraints, for the sake of Christ; for when I am weak, then I am strong.
Prayer
May I be pierced with vile words, be stoned with false gossip, and be nailed with evil acts, but may I beseech you to grant me this one grace, that I love those who would harm me because of you. Amen.
Place your heart in the open side of the Savior and unite it with the King of the hearts who is within it as on a royal throne, in order that he might receive homage and obedience from all other hearts.
Reflection
How can I be a true martyr, an effective witness of the love of God?
Scriptural Reading
2 Corinthians 12:9-10
But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for power is made perfect in weakness." I will rather boast most gladly of my weaknesses, in order that the power of Christ may dwell with me. Therefore, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and constraints, for the sake of Christ; for when I am weak, then I am strong.
Prayer
May I be pierced with vile words, be stoned with false gossip, and be nailed with evil acts, but may I beseech you to grant me this one grace, that I love those who would harm me because of you. Amen.
Linggo, Setyembre 17, 2017
IN UNION WITH DIVINE LOVE
Day 116
Message from Padre Pio
Speak to, pray to, and embrace the Beloved of souls, better than if you had been able to receive him in the sacrament.
Reflection
Isn't it delightful to be able to embrace the newborn baby Jesus? Isn't taking Holy Communion like embracing our Beloved Savior?
Scriptural Reading
Luke 2:28-31
He took him into his arms and blessed God, saying: "Now, Master, you may let your servant go in peace, according to your word, for my eyes have seen your salvation, which you prepared in sight of all the peoples..."
Prayer
Dearest Savior, as I bloom to the prime of my health, I long to hold you in my arms and kiss your fragrant holy breath. As I wither to the dusk of my years, I long to be held in your arms and to be kissed by the lips that breathes life. Amen.
Speak to, pray to, and embrace the Beloved of souls, better than if you had been able to receive him in the sacrament.
Reflection
Isn't it delightful to be able to embrace the newborn baby Jesus? Isn't taking Holy Communion like embracing our Beloved Savior?
Scriptural Reading
Luke 2:28-31
He took him into his arms and blessed God, saying: "Now, Master, you may let your servant go in peace, according to your word, for my eyes have seen your salvation, which you prepared in sight of all the peoples..."
Prayer
Dearest Savior, as I bloom to the prime of my health, I long to hold you in my arms and kiss your fragrant holy breath. As I wither to the dusk of my years, I long to be held in your arms and to be kissed by the lips that breathes life. Amen.
Sabado, Setyembre 16, 2017
IN UNION WITH DIVINE LOVE
Day 115
Message from Padre Pio
Fly in spirit before the tabernacle, when you cannot go there with the body and there, express your ardent desires.
Reflection
Do I still spend time to think about or at least talk with my heart to the Prisoner of Love?
Scriptural Reading
Psalm 23:1-3
The Lord is my shepherd; there is nothing I lack. In green pastures you let me graze; to safe waters you lead me; you store my strength. You guide me along the right path for the sake of your name.
Prayer
Noble Prisoner of Love, thank you for being such a good Shepherd, for being here for me who, in spite of my intellect and free will, is always lost in the pastures of secular society. Amen.
Fly in spirit before the tabernacle, when you cannot go there with the body and there, express your ardent desires.
Reflection
Do I still spend time to think about or at least talk with my heart to the Prisoner of Love?
Scriptural Reading
Psalm 23:1-3
The Lord is my shepherd; there is nothing I lack. In green pastures you let me graze; to safe waters you lead me; you store my strength. You guide me along the right path for the sake of your name.
Prayer
Noble Prisoner of Love, thank you for being such a good Shepherd, for being here for me who, in spite of my intellect and free will, is always lost in the pastures of secular society. Amen.
Biyernes, Setyembre 15, 2017
IN UNION WITH DIVINE LOVE
Day 114
Message from Padre Pio
He will come to stay united to your soul always, through his grace and holy love.
Reflection
Why should I ever despair of having no friends in the world?
Scriptural Reading
Psalm 34:19-20
The Lord is close to the brokenhearted, saves those whose spirit is crushed. Many are the troubles of the just, but the Lord delivers from them all.
Prayer
My Friend, thank you for being a shoulder to cry on, for having the Heart to listen to my petty complaints, for keeping your strong arms around me, for giving your lap for me to rest on. Thank you! Amen.
He will come to stay united to your soul always, through his grace and holy love.
Reflection
Why should I ever despair of having no friends in the world?
Scriptural Reading
Psalm 34:19-20
The Lord is close to the brokenhearted, saves those whose spirit is crushed. Many are the troubles of the just, but the Lord delivers from them all.
Prayer
My Friend, thank you for being a shoulder to cry on, for having the Heart to listen to my petty complaints, for keeping your strong arms around me, for giving your lap for me to rest on. Thank you! Amen.
Huwebes, Setyembre 14, 2017
IN UNION WITH DIVINE LOVE
Day 113
Message from Padre Pio
During the course of the day, when you are unable to do anything else, call on Jesus, even in the midst of all your occupations...
Reflection
Am I familiar with the beautiful practice of making short ejaculatory prayers during the day?
Scriptural Reading
Psalm 104:30-31,33-35
When you send forth your breath, they are created, and you renew the face of the earth. May the glory of the Lord endure forever; may the Lord be glad in these works! ... I will sing to the Lord all my life; I will sing praise to my God while I live. May my theme be pleasing to God; I will rejoice in the Lord. May sinners vanish from the earth, and the wicked be no more. Bless the Lord, my soul! Hallelujah!
Prayer
Mighty Savior, in honor of you and our Blessed Mother, may I pray frequently for myself and for the poor souls in purgatory: Lord Jesus, Mother Mary, I love you, save souls! Amen.
During the course of the day, when you are unable to do anything else, call on Jesus, even in the midst of all your occupations...
Reflection
Am I familiar with the beautiful practice of making short ejaculatory prayers during the day?
Scriptural Reading
Psalm 104:30-31,33-35
When you send forth your breath, they are created, and you renew the face of the earth. May the glory of the Lord endure forever; may the Lord be glad in these works! ... I will sing to the Lord all my life; I will sing praise to my God while I live. May my theme be pleasing to God; I will rejoice in the Lord. May sinners vanish from the earth, and the wicked be no more. Bless the Lord, my soul! Hallelujah!
Prayer
Mighty Savior, in honor of you and our Blessed Mother, may I pray frequently for myself and for the poor souls in purgatory: Lord Jesus, Mother Mary, I love you, save souls! Amen.
Miyerkules, Setyembre 13, 2017
IN UNION WITH DIVINE LOVE
Day 112
Message from Padre Pio
If you are not granted the ability to stay a long time in prayer... you must not be discouraged. As long as you receive Jesus every morning, you must consider yourself extremely fortunate.
Reflection
Have I come to the point of despising others for disturbing my prayer time?
Scriptural Reading
Romans 8:38-39
For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor present things, nor future things, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Prayer
Great Lord, guard me from being swayed from true homage; let me realize that I still have to spend some time to live in this world, but let me also realize that now I am not of the world. Amen.
If you are not granted the ability to stay a long time in prayer... you must not be discouraged. As long as you receive Jesus every morning, you must consider yourself extremely fortunate.
Reflection
Have I come to the point of despising others for disturbing my prayer time?
Scriptural Reading
Romans 8:38-39
For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor present things, nor future things, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Prayer
Great Lord, guard me from being swayed from true homage; let me realize that I still have to spend some time to live in this world, but let me also realize that now I am not of the world. Amen.
Martes, Setyembre 12, 2017
IN UNION WITH DIVINE LOVE
Day 111
Message from Padre Pio
I approve of your work for gaining souls for Jesus. By all means, receive Holy Communion for the Holy Father's intentions.
Reflection
Is it not a beautiful devotion to receive Holy Communion with the prayer that the blessings intended for the communicant be given for the spiritual needs of others?
Scriptural Reading
Mark 1:16-17
As he passed by the Sea of Galilee, he saw Simon and his brother Andrew casting their nets into the sea; they were fishermen. Jesus said to them, "Come after me, and I will make you fishers of men."
Prayer
My sweet Lord Jesus, may it be my passion to win souls for you, just as you have always found a way to win my soul. May it be my mission to care for them, just as you are always here to look after me. Amen.
I approve of your work for gaining souls for Jesus. By all means, receive Holy Communion for the Holy Father's intentions.
Reflection
Is it not a beautiful devotion to receive Holy Communion with the prayer that the blessings intended for the communicant be given for the spiritual needs of others?
Scriptural Reading
Mark 1:16-17
As he passed by the Sea of Galilee, he saw Simon and his brother Andrew casting their nets into the sea; they were fishermen. Jesus said to them, "Come after me, and I will make you fishers of men."
Prayer
My sweet Lord Jesus, may it be my passion to win souls for you, just as you have always found a way to win my soul. May it be my mission to care for them, just as you are always here to look after me. Amen.
Lunes, Setyembre 11, 2017
IN UNION WITH DIVINE LOVE
Day 110
Message from Padre Pio
...what a good thing it is to stay close to him on the mount of his glory! ... Contrary to our every merit, we are on the steps of Tabor; and we must have a firm determination to love and serve his divine goodness well.
Reflection
Is it not more tranquil now?
Scriptural Reading
Matthew 17:2,5-7
And he was transfigured before them; his face shone like the sun and his clothes became white as light. ... While he was still speaking, behold, a bright cloud cast a shadow over them, then from the cloud came a voice that said, "This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased; listen to him." When the disciples heard this, they fell prostrate and were very much afraid. But Jesus came and touched them, saying, "Rise, and do not be afraid."
Prayer
My Lord, many of us may be bewildered by your Transfiguration, by your holy countenance suddenly becoming pure light. But I rejoice in you, for you have shown us, by your most compassionate Heart, the true glory that is to come. Amen.
...what a good thing it is to stay close to him on the mount of his glory! ... Contrary to our every merit, we are on the steps of Tabor; and we must have a firm determination to love and serve his divine goodness well.
Reflection
Is it not more tranquil now?
Scriptural Reading
Matthew 17:2,5-7
And he was transfigured before them; his face shone like the sun and his clothes became white as light. ... While he was still speaking, behold, a bright cloud cast a shadow over them, then from the cloud came a voice that said, "This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased; listen to him." When the disciples heard this, they fell prostrate and were very much afraid. But Jesus came and touched them, saying, "Rise, and do not be afraid."
Prayer
My Lord, many of us may be bewildered by your Transfiguration, by your holy countenance suddenly becoming pure light. But I rejoice in you, for you have shown us, by your most compassionate Heart, the true glory that is to come. Amen.
Linggo, Setyembre 10, 2017
IN UNION WITH DIVINE LOVE
Day 109
Message from Padre Pio
I never cease to implore blessings for you from Jesus, and to beg the Lord to transform you totally in him.
Reflection
After having prayed so much for myself, is it not time I now pray for others?
Scriptural Reading
Luke 11:5-10
And he said to them, "Suppose one of you has a friend to whom he goes at midnight and says, 'Friend, lend me three loaves of bread, for a friend of mine has arrived at my house from a journey and I have nothing to offer him.' and he says in reply from within, 'Do not bother me; the door has already been locked and my children and I are already in bed. I cannot get up to give you anything.' I tell you, if he does not get up to give him the loaves because of their friendship, he will get up to give him whatever he needs because of his persistence. And I tell you, ask and you will receive; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks, receives; and the one who seeks, finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened."
Prayer
Almighty Lord, may you give us all—my family, friends, and even those who to this day abuse your love—the gift of your grace and light, that every day we may see clearly the depth of your love. Amen.
I never cease to implore blessings for you from Jesus, and to beg the Lord to transform you totally in him.
Reflection
After having prayed so much for myself, is it not time I now pray for others?
Scriptural Reading
Luke 11:5-10
And he said to them, "Suppose one of you has a friend to whom he goes at midnight and says, 'Friend, lend me three loaves of bread, for a friend of mine has arrived at my house from a journey and I have nothing to offer him.' and he says in reply from within, 'Do not bother me; the door has already been locked and my children and I are already in bed. I cannot get up to give you anything.' I tell you, if he does not get up to give him the loaves because of their friendship, he will get up to give him whatever he needs because of his persistence. And I tell you, ask and you will receive; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks, receives; and the one who seeks, finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened."
Prayer
Almighty Lord, may you give us all—my family, friends, and even those who to this day abuse your love—the gift of your grace and light, that every day we may see clearly the depth of your love. Amen.
Sabado, Setyembre 9, 2017
IN UNION WITH DIVINE LOVE
Day 108
Message from Padre Pio
Know that the saints were always mocked by the world and the worldly, but even so they placed the world and its maxims under their feet.
Reflection
Am I prepared to follow the hard path of the saints?
Scriptural Reading
Psalm 15:1-3
Lord, who may abide in your tent? Who may dwell on your holy mountain? Whoever walks without blame, doing what is right, speaking truth from the heart; who does not slander a neighbor, does no harm to another, never defames a friend.
Prayer
O my kind Jesus Christ, may humiliation for your sake be sweeter than the praises of the world! Amen.
Know that the saints were always mocked by the world and the worldly, but even so they placed the world and its maxims under their feet.
Reflection
Am I prepared to follow the hard path of the saints?
Scriptural Reading
Psalm 15:1-3
Lord, who may abide in your tent? Who may dwell on your holy mountain? Whoever walks without blame, doing what is right, speaking truth from the heart; who does not slander a neighbor, does no harm to another, never defames a friend.
Prayer
O my kind Jesus Christ, may humiliation for your sake be sweeter than the praises of the world! Amen.
Biyernes, Setyembre 8, 2017
IN UNION WITH DIVINE LOVE
Day 107
Message from Padre Pio
Always be faithful to God in observing the promises you made him, and pay no attention to the mocking of the foolish.
Reflection
Who do I think is more foolish: he who tries hard to savor a life that lasts sixty or seventy years; or he who tries hard to be worthy of the gift of a life that lasts forever?
Scriptural Reading
Psalm 39:6-8
You have given my days a very short span; my life is as nothing before you. All mortals are but a breath. Mere phantoms, we go our way; mere vapor, our restless pursuits; we heap up stores without knowing for whom. And now, Lord, what future do I have? You are my only hope.
Prayer
Loving Father, you know it is easy for me to make promises but you also know that I am too weak to keep them. Make me strong to do my best, for I know that you are happy with one weak soul trying to do his best than a hundred strong souls who hardly make an effort to become a little better. Amen.
Always be faithful to God in observing the promises you made him, and pay no attention to the mocking of the foolish.
Reflection
Who do I think is more foolish: he who tries hard to savor a life that lasts sixty or seventy years; or he who tries hard to be worthy of the gift of a life that lasts forever?
Scriptural Reading
Psalm 39:6-8
You have given my days a very short span; my life is as nothing before you. All mortals are but a breath. Mere phantoms, we go our way; mere vapor, our restless pursuits; we heap up stores without knowing for whom. And now, Lord, what future do I have? You are my only hope.
Prayer
Loving Father, you know it is easy for me to make promises but you also know that I am too weak to keep them. Make me strong to do my best, for I know that you are happy with one weak soul trying to do his best than a hundred strong souls who hardly make an effort to become a little better. Amen.
Huwebes, Setyembre 7, 2017
IN UNION WITH DIVINE LOVE
Day 106
Message from Padre Pio
You are not unaware of the fact that I desire to die and to love God; either death or love, given that life without this love is worse than death.
Reflection
How is it that I can go on living a life decrepit of love? love that thrives not on pleasure, but on sacrifice?
Scriptural Reading
Psalm 42:2-4
As the deer longs for streams of water, so my soul longs for you, O God. My being thirsts for God. When can I go and see the face of God? My tears have been my food day and night, as they ask daily, "Where is your God?"
Prayer
My Master of love, either a life in your love or death to a life that cannot nurture it! Amen.
You are not unaware of the fact that I desire to die and to love God; either death or love, given that life without this love is worse than death.
Reflection
How is it that I can go on living a life decrepit of love? love that thrives not on pleasure, but on sacrifice?
Scriptural Reading
Psalm 42:2-4
As the deer longs for streams of water, so my soul longs for you, O God. My being thirsts for God. When can I go and see the face of God? My tears have been my food day and night, as they ask daily, "Where is your God?"
Prayer
My Master of love, either a life in your love or death to a life that cannot nurture it! Amen.
Miyerkules, Setyembre 6, 2017
IN UNION WITH DIVINE LOVE
Day 105
Message from Padre Pio
We should make a great effort to become holy, and render great service to God and our neighbor.
Reflection
What greater service can I render than to be a minister providing spiritual direction and formation for my spouse and for my children?
Scriptural Reading
Psalm 128:1-4
Happy are all who fear the Lord, who walk in the ways of God. What your hands provide you will enjoy; you will be happy and prosper: like a fruitful vine your wife within your home, like olive plants your children around your table. Just so will they be blessed who fear the Lord.
Prayer
Father of families, may I be always reminded of my primary task: to serve with love and sacrifice for the material and spiritual development of the souls you have chosen to give me. May I die that they may live! Amen.
We should make a great effort to become holy, and render great service to God and our neighbor.
Reflection
What greater service can I render than to be a minister providing spiritual direction and formation for my spouse and for my children?
Scriptural Reading
Psalm 128:1-4
Happy are all who fear the Lord, who walk in the ways of God. What your hands provide you will enjoy; you will be happy and prosper: like a fruitful vine your wife within your home, like olive plants your children around your table. Just so will they be blessed who fear the Lord.
Prayer
Father of families, may I be always reminded of my primary task: to serve with love and sacrifice for the material and spiritual development of the souls you have chosen to give me. May I die that they may live! Amen.
Martes, Setyembre 5, 2017
IN UNION WITH DIVINE LOVE
Day 104
Message from Padre Pio
Do your best to conform always, and in everything, to the will of God, in all eventualities and do not fear. This is the sure path to heaven.
Reflection
When I suffer for any reason, do I still feel that this suffering is the will of God?
Scriptural Reading
Psalm 42:11-12
It shatters my bones, when my adversaries reproach me. They say to me daily: "Where is your God?" Why are you downcast, my soul, why do you groan within me? Wait for God, whom I shall praise again, my savior and my God.
Prayer
I am always tempted to think that suffering can never be your will, my Lord; why would you let someone you love suffer so much? But I understand that suffering is gradual detachment from the world and all its attractions and distractions; suffering is the gradual realization that you alone are my ultimate destiny! Amen.
Do your best to conform always, and in everything, to the will of God, in all eventualities and do not fear. This is the sure path to heaven.
Reflection
When I suffer for any reason, do I still feel that this suffering is the will of God?
Scriptural Reading
Psalm 42:11-12
It shatters my bones, when my adversaries reproach me. They say to me daily: "Where is your God?" Why are you downcast, my soul, why do you groan within me? Wait for God, whom I shall praise again, my savior and my God.
Prayer
I am always tempted to think that suffering can never be your will, my Lord; why would you let someone you love suffer so much? But I understand that suffering is gradual detachment from the world and all its attractions and distractions; suffering is the gradual realization that you alone are my ultimate destiny! Amen.
Lunes, Setyembre 4, 2017
IN UNION WITH DIVINE LOVE
Day 103
Message from Padre Pio
Remember what took place in the heart of our heavenly Mother at the foot of the cross. She was turned to stone before her crucified Son, due to excessive suffering, but you cannot say she was abandoned.
Reflection
When I suffer for the faith, do I feel abandoned?
Scriptural Reading
John 19:26-27
When Jesus saw his mother and the disciple there whom he loved, he said to his mother, "Woman, behold, your son." Then he said to the disciple, "Behold, your mother." And from that hour the disciple took her into his home.
Prayer
Lord of the destitute and the forsaken, of the suffering and the mourning, I feel the pain of trying to do what is right and I feel the pain of being left alone. You are my refuge, my Lord, you are my only support! Amen.
Remember what took place in the heart of our heavenly Mother at the foot of the cross. She was turned to stone before her crucified Son, due to excessive suffering, but you cannot say she was abandoned.
Reflection
When I suffer for the faith, do I feel abandoned?
Scriptural Reading
John 19:26-27
When Jesus saw his mother and the disciple there whom he loved, he said to his mother, "Woman, behold, your son." Then he said to the disciple, "Behold, your mother." And from that hour the disciple took her into his home.
Prayer
Lord of the destitute and the forsaken, of the suffering and the mourning, I feel the pain of trying to do what is right and I feel the pain of being left alone. You are my refuge, my Lord, you are my only support! Amen.
Linggo, Setyembre 3, 2017
IN UNION WITH DIVINE LOVE
Day 102
Message from Padre Pio
Let your will always be contrary to his suggestions, and live tranquilly...
Reflection
Why have we made life so complicated?
Scriptural Reading
Psalm 127:1-2
Unless the Lord build the house, they labor in vain who build. Unless the Lord guard the city, in vain does the guard keep watch. It is vain for you to rise early and put off your rest at night, to eat bread earned by hard toil—all this God gives to his beloved in sleep.
Prayer
O Lord, we have pushed our humanity to the limits. We have pushed our intellect, our passions, our freedom, and our sanity to the brink, in our desire to live a life which we think is the only one that exists. I know now, my dearest, that there is a better life, a more beautiful life that lasts forever. Keep me in peace. Amen.
Let your will always be contrary to his suggestions, and live tranquilly...
Reflection
Why have we made life so complicated?
Scriptural Reading
Psalm 127:1-2
Unless the Lord build the house, they labor in vain who build. Unless the Lord guard the city, in vain does the guard keep watch. It is vain for you to rise early and put off your rest at night, to eat bread earned by hard toil—all this God gives to his beloved in sleep.
Prayer
O Lord, we have pushed our humanity to the limits. We have pushed our intellect, our passions, our freedom, and our sanity to the brink, in our desire to live a life which we think is the only one that exists. I know now, my dearest, that there is a better life, a more beautiful life that lasts forever. Keep me in peace. Amen.
Sabado, Setyembre 2, 2017
IN UNION WITH DIVINE LOVE
Day 101
Message from Padre Pio
Temptations against faith and purity are the merchandise offered by the enemy...
Reflection
Am I tempted to abandon in reason what I have accepted in faith? Am I tempted to love by taking for myself what I desire in pleasure rather than to love by giving myself, what I am, and what I have in sacrifice?
Scriptural Reading
Tobit 8:5-10
She got up, and they started to pray and beg that deliverance might be theirs. He began with these words: "Blessed are you, O God of our fathers; praised be your name forever and ever. Let the heavens and all your creation praise you forever. You made Adam and you gave him his wife Eve to be his help and support; and from these two the human race descended. You said, 'It is not good for the man to be alone; let us make him a partner like himself.' Now, Lord, you know that I take this wife of mine not because of lust, but for a noble purpose. Call down your mercy on me and on her, and allow us to live together to a happy old age." They said together, "Amen, amen," and went to bed for the night. But Raguel got up and summoned his servants. With him they went out to dig a grave, for he said, "I must do this, because if Tobiah should die, we would be subjected to ridicule and insult."
Prayer
My dearest Jesus, may you always bless me to believe what you taught me to believe; and to love you as you taught me to love. Amen.
Temptations against faith and purity are the merchandise offered by the enemy...
Reflection
Am I tempted to abandon in reason what I have accepted in faith? Am I tempted to love by taking for myself what I desire in pleasure rather than to love by giving myself, what I am, and what I have in sacrifice?
Scriptural Reading
Tobit 8:5-10
She got up, and they started to pray and beg that deliverance might be theirs. He began with these words: "Blessed are you, O God of our fathers; praised be your name forever and ever. Let the heavens and all your creation praise you forever. You made Adam and you gave him his wife Eve to be his help and support; and from these two the human race descended. You said, 'It is not good for the man to be alone; let us make him a partner like himself.' Now, Lord, you know that I take this wife of mine not because of lust, but for a noble purpose. Call down your mercy on me and on her, and allow us to live together to a happy old age." They said together, "Amen, amen," and went to bed for the night. But Raguel got up and summoned his servants. With him they went out to dig a grave, for he said, "I must do this, because if Tobiah should die, we would be subjected to ridicule and insult."
Prayer
My dearest Jesus, may you always bless me to believe what you taught me to believe; and to love you as you taught me to love. Amen.
Biyernes, Setyembre 1, 2017
IN UNION WITH DIVINE LOVE
Day 100
Message from Padre Pio
As long as he makes an uproar, it is a sign that he has not yet possessed the will. Don't be upset by what you experience through the work of this rebellious angel.
Reflection
Was there a time that I had to face severe criticism or ridicule because I refused to do what clearly is against my conscience?
Scriptural Reading
Matthew 7:13-14
Enter through the narrow gate; for the gate is wide and the road broad that leads to destruction, and those who enter through it are many. How narrow the gate and constricted the road that leads to life. And those who find it are few.
Prayer
Amidst the noise of a world that cannot understand you, I can still hear your calm voice calling me to follow the straight but narrow way. Please be here with me always to guide me and comfort me. Amen.
As long as he makes an uproar, it is a sign that he has not yet possessed the will. Don't be upset by what you experience through the work of this rebellious angel.
Reflection
Was there a time that I had to face severe criticism or ridicule because I refused to do what clearly is against my conscience?
Scriptural Reading
Matthew 7:13-14
Enter through the narrow gate; for the gate is wide and the road broad that leads to destruction, and those who enter through it are many. How narrow the gate and constricted the road that leads to life. And those who find it are few.
Prayer
Amidst the noise of a world that cannot understand you, I can still hear your calm voice calling me to follow the straight but narrow way. Please be here with me always to guide me and comfort me. Amen.
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