A Promise Fulfilled

Gospel

Luke 1:5-25

5 In the days of Herod, King of Judea, there was a priest named Zechariah of the priestly division of Abijah; his wife was from the daughters of Aaron, and her name was Elizabeth. 6 Both were righteous in the eyes of God, observing all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blamelessly. 7 But they had no child, because Elizabeth was barren and both were advanced in years. 8 Once when he was serving as priest in his division’s turn before God, 9 according to the practice of the priestly service, he was chosen by lot to enter the sanctuary of the Lord to burn incense. 10 Then, when the whole assembly of the people was praying outside at the hour of the incense offering, 11 the angel of the Lord appeared to him, standing at the right of the altar of incense. 12 Zechariah was troubled by what he saw, and fear came upon him. 13 But the angel said to him, “Do not be afraid, Zechariah, because your prayer has been heard. Your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you shall name him John. 14 And you will have joy and gladness, and many will rejoice at his birth, 15 for he will be great in the sight of the Lord. He will drink neither wine nor strong drink. He will be filled with the Holy Spirit even from his mother’s womb, 16 and he will turn many of the children of Israel to the Lord their God. 17 He will go before him in the spirit and power of Elijah to turn the hearts of fathers toward children and the disobedient to the understanding of the righteous, to prepare a people fit for the Lord.” 18 Then Zechariah said to the angel, “How shall I know this? For I am an old man, and my wife is advanced in years.” 19 And the angel said to him in reply, “I am Gabriel, who stand before God. I was sent to speak to you and to announce to you this good news. 20 But now you will be speechless and unable to talk until the day these things take place, because you did not believe my words, which will be fulfilled at their proper time.” 21 Meanwhile the people were waiting for Zechariah and were amazed that he stayed so long in the sanctuary. 22 But when he came out, he was unable to speak to them, and they realized that he had seen a vision in the sanctuary. He was gesturing to them but remained mute. 23 Then, when his days of ministry were completed, he went home. 24 After this time his wife Elizabeth conceived, and she went into seclusion for five months, saying, 25 “So has the Lord done for me at a time when he has seen fit to take away my disgrace before others.” 

Historical Background

Luke situates the story “in the days of Herod, king of Judea,” a period marked by political tension, Roman domination, and spiritual longing among the Jewish people. Herod’s rule was known for grand building projects but also paranoia and brutality. The people longed for God’s intervention.

Zechariah belonged to the priestly division of Abijah, one of the 24 priestly groups established in ancient Israel. Priests served in the Temple twice a year, and being chosen by lot to offer incense was a once-in-a-lifetime honor. This moment places Zechariah at the heart of Israel’s worship, in the sanctuary where heaven and earth symbolically meet.

In Jewish culture, barrenness carried deep social stigma. Elizabeth’s “reproach among people” reflects the pain of being misunderstood and judged, despite her righteousness before God.

Theological Context

God Acts in Hiddenness and Silence. The story echoes Old Testament patterns—Abraham and Sarah, Hannah—where God brings life from barrenness. Luke is showing that the age of prophecy is stirring again after centuries of silence.

John the Baptist’s Mission. Gabriel announces that John will come “in the spirit and power of Elijah” to prepare a people for the Lord. This connects John to Malachi’s prophecy and signals that God’s long-awaited salvation is unfolding.

Zechariah’s Silence. His muteness is not punishment as much as a sign—a sacred pause. His inability to speak mirrors Israel’s long silence awaiting God’s voice. When he finally speaks again, it will be to proclaim blessing.

God’s Faithfulness. The passage emphasizes that God remembers His covenant. Even the name “John” (Yohanan) means God is gracious.

Learning Lessons

The angel tells Zechariah that his prayer has been heard. This reassures us that God listens to our prayers and responds in His perfect timing, even if it takes longer than we expect.

Like John the Baptist who was given a specific purpose before his birth, God has a unique plan and purpose for each of our lives, and we are called to fulfill it. His blessings often bring joy not only to us but also to those around us. Let us live a life of holiness that is dedicated to God, filled with the Holy Spirit, and committed to His ways.

Reflecting on these verses can inspire us to trust in God's timing, seek His purpose for our lives, find joy in His blessings, and live lives dedicated to Him. 

Reflection for the Day

There are seasons when we pray faithfully, walk blamelessly, and still feel barren—whether in dreams, relationships, creativity, or spiritual life. Like Zechariah and Elizabeth, we can feel unseen or forgotten. But Luke reminds us that God is quietly at work even when nothing seems to be happening.

Zechariah’s silence invites you to consider: Where is God inviting you into stillness? What prayers have you stopped believing could still be answered? What “barren places” in your life might God be preparing to fill with unexpected life?

Elizabeth’s hidden five months show that some blessings begin in secrecy, away from public eyes. Growth often starts quietly, gently, almost imperceptibly.

Trust the slow work of God. Stay faithful in your small, daily offerings. Believe that grace is already unfolding, even if you cannot yet speak of it.

"Do not be afraid," the angel said, 

"Zechariah, your prayer is heard. 

Elizabeth will bear a son, 

A joy and delight, for everyone.

Call him John, a name so bright, 

He'll bring rejoicing, day and night. 

Great in the sight of the Lord he'll be, 

Filled with the Spirit, pure and free.

No wine or drink shall touch his lips, 

In holiness, his life equips. 

From before his birth, the Spirit's flame, 

Will guide his path, proclaim his name.

A promise fulfilled, a prayer's sweet song, 

In faith and hope, we all belong. 

Rejoice, for God's great plan is clear, 

In John's birth, His love draws near.

Prayer:

Lord Jesus, 

We come before You with hearts full of gratitude, for Your promises and the fulfillment of our prayers. Just as You heard Zechariah's plea, hear our prayers and grant us Your peace.

We thank You for the joy and delight You bring, for the blessings that fill our lives. Help us to recognize Your hand in all things, and to rejoice in Your goodness and grace.

Fill us with Your Holy Spirit, guide us in Your ways, and help us to live lives that are pleasing to You. May we be a source of joy and blessing to others, reflecting Your love and light in all we do.

Amen.

Pericope:

II: The Infancy Narrative

ANNOUNCEMENT OF THE BIRTH OF JOHN

Luke 1:5-25

Gospel Acclamation

O Root of Jesse’s stem, sign of God’s love for all his people: come to save us without delay!

Reflection Source:

Conversation with Copilot

Published:

December 19, 2024, 7:09 AM

Increase our Faith

 

Gospel

Luke 17:5-10

5 The apostles said to the Lord, “Increase our faith.” 6 The Lord replied, “If you have faith the size of a mustard seed, you would say to this mulberry tree, ‘Be uprooted and planted in the sea,’ and it would obey you. 7 “Who among you would say to your servant who has just come in from plowing or tending sheep in the field, ‘Come here immediately and take your place at table’? 8 Would he not rather say to him, ‘Prepare something for me to eat. Put on your apron and wait on me while I eat and drink. You may eat and drink when I am finished’? 9 Is he grateful to that servant because he did what was commanded? 10 So should it be with you. When you have done all you have been commanded, say, ‘We are unprofitable servants; we have done what we were obliged to do.’”

Historical Background

Jesus is traveling through Galilee toward Jerusalem, teaching His disciples about the cost of discipleship. The apostles, who have just heard Jesus speak about forgiveness (Luke 17:1–4), now ask Him to “increase our faith.”

The image of the mustard seed was familiar—it was proverbially tiny but known to grow into a large plant. The servant imagery reflects the Greco-Roman household structure, where servants were expected to work without reward or recognition.

Theological Context

Jesus emphasizes that even a small amount of genuine faith can accomplish the impossible—not because of the believer’s power, but because of God’s.

The parable of the servant teaches that obedience to God is not about earning favor but fulfilling duty. It’s a call to serve without entitlement. The phrase “We are unworthy servants” underscores that our relationship with God is based on grace, not performance.

Learning Lessons

Faith is not measured by size but by sincerity: A mustard seed-sized faith, when rooted in God, is powerful. 

True discipleship includes humble service: We serve not for applause but because it is our calling. Obedience is not optional: Following Jesus means doing what He commands—even when it’s hard or unnoticed.

God owes us nothing yet gives us everything: Our posture should be gratitude, not entitlement.

“Mustard Seed and Apron”

Lord, I asked for faith to rise,

You spoke of seeds, not mountain size.

A mustard grain, so small, so slight—

Yet moves the earth with heaven’s might.

You told of servants, worn and spent,

Who labor long without lament.

No throne, no feast, no grand applause—

Just quiet hearts that heed Your cause.

So teach me, Lord, to serve unseen,

To wear the apron, not the crown.

To trust Your will in fields between,

And sow my faith where grace is found.

Lord Jesus, 

You see my heart and hear my cry: “Increase my faith.” Not for signs or wonders, but for strength to obey. Teach me to trust You with mustard seed faith— To believe even when I cannot see, to serve even when I am weary, to love without seeking reward.

Make me a faithful servant, content to do what You command, joyful in the hidden places, grateful for Your grace alone. Let my life echo Your humility, and my heart reflect Your mercy. In Your name I pray, 

Amen.

Pericope:

V: The Journey to Jerusalem: Luke's Travel Narrative

SAYING OF FAITH / ATTITUDE OF A SERVANT

Luke 17:5-6 / 7-10

Gospel Acclamation 

The word of the Lord remains forever. This is the word that has been proclaimed to you. 

Reflection Source:

Conversation with Copilot

Increase Your Faith!

Then His disciples came to Him and awoke Him, saying, 

"Lord, save us! We are perishing!" 

But He said to them, 

"Why are you fearful, O you little faith?" 

Then He arose and rebuked the winds and the sea, 

and there was a great calm.

(Matthew 8:25-26)

Lord Jesus, you are the peace and calmness that is in my heart.  I am always amazed whenever I see the power of your great works done in me. Indeed, You are in full control. Thank You so much for providing me with the necessary resources and the best and lasting solutions to fully settle all my debts. 

Please forgive me for having little faith most especially in times when I am caught in a stormy situation. In the midst of any great storm, I claim your great calm O Lord. You alone can command everything to be still and with utmost faith, I depend upon Your grace and protection. Always be with me so that I will never fear any storm of life that comes my way and will always be at peace.

Truly, there is nothing impossible to what You can do. May your hand be upon me always so that all plan of actions will be in accordance with Your will. 

As always, I completely surrender everything to you, believing in faith that amidst any storm or diffulties in life, you are always there to give us comfort and peace. May the financial freedom, abundance, and prosperity You have brought upon us continue to grow and flourish each day. 

I give You back all the glory and praise now and forever. Amen.

Published:

July 01, 2025, 9:37 AM

July 02, 2024, 4:23 AM

July 4, 2023, 9:55 AM

Faith in God's Promise

"Know that I am with you; 

I will protect you wherever you go, and bring you back to this land. 

I will never leave you until I have done what I promised you.” 

(Genesis 28:15)

Father in heaven, 

You are my God, the source of all that I am and all that I have. You hold my future in your hands and only you knows what I will become. Praise be to Your Name now and forever!

As You have promised, You have given me the land that I have longed and wish for. Today, You speak of further increasing or expanding the land that You will give me. I may not still know what this means since I am not yet fully settled in our own land but I am excited to see where You will truly bring me and my family. 

Only you can give the land that I seek and desire. You have promised to give me a land and I just rest upon your will and perfect time. May my faith in you grow stronger each day as I journey towards the land you have promised. I just continue to rest upon Your grace and protection, fully surrendering my faith and destiny into the palm of Your hands. 

 

Make me a channel of your blessings, a living witness of your love and greatness and a good example of a child of God who is richly blessed in every way. Thank you so much for giving me your Son, my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ in whom all good things come. 

With much hope and faith I pray, in Jesus Name.

Amen

Published:

July 10, 2023, 7:35 AM

Faith Through the Wounds

 

Gospel
John 20:24-29

24 Thomas, called Didymus, one of the Twelve, was not with them when Jesus came. 25 So the other disciples said to him, “We have seen the Lord.” But Thomas said to them, “Unless I see the mark of the nails in his hands and put my finger into the nail marks and put my hand into his side, I will not believe.” 26 Now a week later his disciples were again inside and Thomas was with them. Jesus came, although the doors were locked, and stood in their midst and said, “Peace be with you.” 27 Then he said to Thomas, “Put your finger here and see my hands, and bring your hand and put it into my side, and do not be unbelieving, but believe.” 28 Thomas answered and said to him, “My Lord and my God!” 29 Jesus said to him, “Have you come to believe because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and have believed.”

This passage occurs shortly after Jesus’ resurrection. The disciples are gathered in a locked room, fearful of the Jewish authorities. Thomas (called Didymus, meaning “Twin”) was not present when Jesus first appeared to the other disciples (John 20:19–23). His absence sets the stage for his famous declaration of doubt.

In Jewish tradition, physical evidence was often required to confirm truth claims. Thomas’ demand to see and touch Jesus’ wounds reflects this cultural norm. The Gospel of John emphasizes firsthand witness (cf. John 21:24). Thomas’ eventual confession—“My Lord and my God!”—becomes a powerful affirmation of Jesus’ identity.

Faith Through the Wounds

Behind locked doors, the silence grew, 

The breath of fear, the scent of rue. 

The risen Christ had walked unknown, 

To hearts once shattered, now overthrown.

But Thomas came with reason's shield, 

His doubts like thorns refused to yield. 

“Unless I touch His hands and side,” 

He vowed, “I will not let faith abide.”

A week did pass, and grace returned, 

Through solid walls, the Savior churned. 

“Peace be with you,” He softly said, 

And bore the wounds from which He bled.

“Reach out your hand,” He beckoned slow, 

“Believe and let your spirit grow.” 

And Thomas—frozen in the light— 

Confessed aloud what once felt trite.

“My Lord, my God”—his soul unbound, 

No longer lost, now truly found. 

For faith is not in sight alone, 

But trust in what is still unknown.

Lord Jesus, my Savior and my God, 

You stepped into a room shut tight with fear and brought peace where doubt had lingered long. I come like Thomas—not to challenge but to seek, longing to see Your wounds, to touch Your love, to feel the truth of Your resurrection pulse within me.

Forgive me, Lord, when I’ve demanded signs More than trusted Your promise. Forgive the times I’ve let the weight of the world Overshadow Your light. Come through the locked doors of my heart, And speak peace to my restless soul. Let Your hands, pierced by grace, Be the balm to my wounds and worries.

Bless me, Lord, though I have not seen, That I may believe—not by sight, but by faith. Not by proof, but by the power of Your love. Let me cry out like Thomas, Not in doubt, but in reverent awe: “My Lord and my God.”

You are alive, and I am renewed. You are present, though unseen. You are faithful, even when I falter. Keep me close to You, O Christ, that my life may echo Your peace, my voice may declare Your truth, and my heart may never forget the grace that meets me in my uncertainty.

Amen.

Pericope

III: The Book of Glory

THOMAS

John 20:24-29

Gospel Acclamation

You believe in me, Thomas, because you have seen me, says the Lord; blessed are those who have not seen, but still believe!

Theological Background

Christology: Thomas’ exclamation is one of the clearest affirmations of Jesus’ divinity in the New Testament. He calls Jesus both Lord and God, echoing the language used for Yahweh in the Old Testament.

Faith vs. Sight: Jesus responds, “Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed” (v. 29). This introduces a theological shift: faith is no longer dependent on physical proof but on trust in divine revelation.

Resurrection Theology: The passage affirms the bodily resurrection of Jesus. His wounds are visible and tangible, yet He appears in a locked room—highlighting both continuity and transformation in His resurrected body.

Johannine Themes: The Gospel of John often contrasts seeing and believing. Thomas’ journey from doubt to faith encapsulates this theme and prepares readers for belief without physical sight.

Learning Lessons

Honest Doubt Is Not Condemned: Jesus meets Thomas in his doubt, offering him the evidence he seeks. This shows divine compassion and patience toward those who struggle with belief.

Faith Is a Gift: True faith is not merely intellectual assent but a relational trust in Jesus. Thomas’ transformation illustrates how encountering Christ leads to deeper conviction.

Blessing for Future Believers: Jesus’ words in verse 29 extend a blessing to all who believe without seeing—encouraging generations of believers to trust in the testimony of Scripture and the Spirit.

Personal Encounter Matters: Thomas’ confession is deeply personal—“My Lord and my God.” Faith is not abstract; it’s a lived relationship with the risen Christ.

Reflection Source:

Conversation with Copilot

Dawn of Grace: A Call to a Deeper Faith

 

She went and told 

his companions who were mourning and weeping. 

When they heard that 

he was alive and had 

been seen by her, 

they did not believe. 

(Mark 16:10-11)

The dawn of grace has come, and we are called to a deeper faith. Instead of having doubts, let us believe.

Faith requires trust, even when things seem unbelievable. Jesus does not abandon us in our struggles but instead calls us to deeper faith. True encounter with Jesus leads to transformation in our lives.

Sharing the Good News is a responsibility for all believers. Our personal testimonies can inspire and strengthen others in their faith.

Early morn, the stone rolled wide, 

Mary wept, yet hope denied. 

In her sorrow, light broke through— 

Jesus stood, alive and true.

She ran to tell, with trembling heart, 

But doubt and fear kept faith apart. 

Still, He came in mercy deep, 

To wake the souls that grief did keep.

He rebuked their hardened sight, 

Yet bathed them in His saving light.

 “Go,” He said, “to every land, 

Speak My truth, let love expand.”

Now we rise, as they once did, 

With faith proclaimed and doubts forbid. 

His story lives in hearts made free, 

Christ alive—eternally.

Lord Jesus, 

You rose in glory and appeared first to Mary Magdalene, showing that your love reaches all who seek you. Yet doubt clouded the hearts of your disciples, and you called them to a deeper faith.

Help me, Lord, to believe in your presence even when I cannot see. Strengthen my trust in you, that I may never waver in faith. Remove the hardness of my heart, so that I may embrace your truth with open arms.

You commanded your followers to proclaim the Gospel to all creation. Give me the courage to share your love boldly, to be a witness of your mercy and grace. Let my life reflect your truth, that others may see and believe.

Lord, transform me through your risen power. Make me a vessel of your light, so that in my words and actions, your glory may shine. May I go forth, as you have sent your disciples, spreading hope, faith, and the joy of your resurrection.

Amen.

Pericope:

The Longer Ending

THE APPEARANCE TO MARY MAGDALENE/TO TWO DISCIPLES/COMMISSIONING OF ELEVEN

Mark 16:9-11/12-13/14-18

Gospel Acclamation

This is the day the Lord has made; let us be glad and rejoice in it.

Gospel | Mark 16:9-15

9 When Jesus had risen, early on the first day of the week, he appeared first to Mary Magdalene, out of whom he had driven seven demons. 10 She went and told his companions who were mourning and weeping. 11 When they heard that he was alive and had been seen by her, they did not believe. 12 After this he appeared in another form to two of them walking along on their way to the country. 13 They returned and told the others; but they did not believe them either. 14 But later, as the Eleven were at table, he appeared to them and rebuked them for their unbelief and hardness of heart because they had not believed those who saw him after he had been raised. 15 He said to them, “Go into the whole world and proclaim the Gospel to every creature.”

Reflection Source:

Conversation with Copilot

God is Faithful to His Promises

"I will give to you and 

to your descendants after you 

the land in which 

you are now staying, 

the whole land of Canaan, 

as a permanent possession; 

and I will be their God.” 

(Genesis 17:8)

God is faithful to His promises. Everything belongs to God and He gives according to His will. While God’s promises are sure, there is also a call for us to uphold our end of the covenant. We have a responsibility keep His covenant as we live the new life, new identity and destiny that He has given us. Faith and obedience to God’s word is important even when it seems impossible.

In the realm where divine love resides,

Where God's faithfulness to His promises abides,

Everything belongs to Him, in His hands it all lies,

He gives according to His will, under His watchful eyes.

His promises are sure, as steady as the tides,

Yet, a call echoes for us, a spiritual guide,

To uphold our end of the covenant, side by side,

A responsibility we carry, in our hearts it's tied.

A new life, a new identity, a destiny wide,

All these gifts He has given, in us they confide,

Yet faith and obedience to His word must coincide,

Even when it seems impossible, in His truth we confide.

Dear Heavenly Father,

We come before You, acknowledging Your sovereignty and grace. We recognize that You are faithful to Your promises, and everything belongs to You. You give according to Your will, and Your promises are sure.

Lord, we understand that while You have made a covenant with us, there is also a call for us to uphold our end of this covenant. As we live the new life, new identity, and destiny that You have given us, we have a responsibility to keep Your covenant.

We pray for the strength and wisdom to fulfill this responsibility. We acknowledge that faith and obedience to Your word are important, even when it seems impossible. We ask for Your guidance and support in our journey of faith.

In Your name, we pray. Amen.

Pericope:

II. The Patriarch Abraham

COVENANT OF CIRCUMCISION

Genesis 17:1-27

First Reading | Genesis 17:3-9

3 When Abram prostrated himself, God continued to speak to him: 4 “My covenant with you is this: you are to become the father of a host of nations. 5 No longer shall you be called Abram; your name shall be Abraham, for I am making you the father of a host of nations. 6 I will render you exceedingly fertile; I will make nations of you; kings shall stem from you. 7 I will maintain my covenant with you and your descendants after you throughout the ages as an everlasting pact, to be your God and the God of your descendants after you. 8 I will give to you and to your descendants after you the land in which you are now staying, the whole land of Canaan, as a permanent possession; and I will be their God.” 9 God also said to Abraham: “On your part, you and your descendants after you must keep my covenant throughout the ages.”

Background:

This passage is from the Bible, specifically from the Book of Genesis in the Old Testament. This is a significant moment where God makes a covenant with Abram and changes his name to Abraham, which means “father of many nations”.

In this covenant, God promises Abraham that he will be exceedingly fertile, his descendants will form many nations, and kings will come from him. God also promises to give Abraham and his descendants the land of Canaan as a permanent possession. In return, God asks Abraham and his descendants to keep His covenant throughout the ages. This covenant establishes a special relationship between God and Abraham’s descendants, marking a significant moment in the biblical narrative.

Learning Lessons:

Faith and Obedience: Abraham’s faith in God’s promises is a central theme. Despite his old age, Abraham believes in God’s promise that he will become the father of many nations. This teaches the importance of faith and obedience to God’s word, even when it seems impossible.

God’s Faithfulness: God’s covenant with Abraham shows His faithfulness. He promises to make Abraham exceedingly fertile, to make nations of him, and that kings shall stem from him. This demonstrates that God is faithful to His promises.

The Importance of Names: The change of Abram’s name to Abraham signifies his new identity and destiny as the father of many nations. This teaches us about the significance of names and how they can reflect our identities and destinies.

Responsibility: God also places a responsibility on Abraham and his descendants to keep His covenant throughout the ages. This teaches us that while God’s promises are sure, there is also a call for humans to uphold their end of the covenant.

God’s Sovereignty: God’s promise to give the land of Canaan to Abraham’s descendants shows His sovereignty over the earth. It teaches us that everything belongs to God and He gives according to His will.

Reflection Source:

Conversation with Copilot