Gifts: Visible Signs of True Feelings

Why do people give gifts? Because gifts are visible signs---tangible expressions---of the reality of our true feelings and intentions. Sure, we love our loved ones, but it is also in the material and perceptible signs of love---touchable gifts---that clues about how we sincerely feel for the other is hinted, is initially understood. Not that we value more the material expressions; but that we find means to show the truth of our inner dispositions; regardless the monetary cost of the gift. God sent his only begotten Son, Jesus, a sacrificial and redeeming gift---tangible in human history---to show how much He loves us and that He is with us. That same Gift of God Himself is offered to us in the Eucharist, not merely as a sign pointing to Christ but the reality of Christ Himself received as bread and wine -- nourishing and sustaining us in the Divine Truth of God's Love.

Remember Your Destination

Being on a 13-hour trip to the northen tip of the Philippines, Cagayan Valley, it allowed me some time for myself. Travel situates thinking time and more so, a super extended personal prayer time. This is I believe is one of the great blessings of mission. As we journey to our destination, we are led to also journey internally, to the depths of our minds and hearts.

Life is one big journey. Often, many are swayed by the evil one to forget that heaven is our final destination. Everyday, in this journey of life we are to take time for ourselves and be in God's presence. We are to search from within and continually ask Jesus, "Lord am I still on track?" If we feel the peace that we are still on a ride towards heaven, then praise God! But if we are detoured, side tracked, or have made a u-turn to the opposite direction (hell bound), then prayer and God's mercy will open our eyes to heaven's road signs.

By God's grace, we shall reach heaven. May we fix our eyes on Him!