Mass Readings and Reflection for June 5th, 2026

First Reading: 2 Timothy 3:10–17

Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 119: Response: The lovers of your law have great peace, Lord.

Gospel: (Mark 12:35–37)

Reflection:

The Gospel passage of today may seem confusing. How does David, from whose lineage the Savior was to come, call his own descendant “Lord”?

Jesus presents a theological puzzle that reveals the mystery of His identity. He is both truly human and truly divine. He possesses two natures: a human nature and a divine nature.

By quoting Psalm 110, Jesus demonstrates that if the Messiah were merely a human descendant of David, David would not call him “Lord.” In Jewish culture, a father or ancestor was always considered greater than his descendants. Therefore, the Messiah could not be simply another earthly king. He had to be much more.

Jesus is indeed the Son of David according to His human lineage. Yet He is also David’s Lord according to His divine nature. Before David existed, Jesus already was. Before Abraham was, Jesus is. He is the eternal Son of God.

Thus, Jesus is both the root and the offspring of David. He came from David's line in His humanity, but He precedes David in His divinity.

This teaching also silenced the Pharisees and scribes, who expected a merely political or military Messiah who would restore Israel’s earthly kingdom. Jesus reveals that the Messiah is not only David’s Son but also David’s Lord.

By way of analogy, the biological father of a priest may call his own son “Father” because of the priest’s spiritual fatherhood. Yet the priest still calls him “Father” because of his biological relationship. In a similar way, Jesus is David’s Son according to the flesh and David’s Lord according to His divine nature.

The scribes emphasized Jesus’ humanity while rejecting His divinity. Therefore, Jesus used this Scripture to show that David himself acknowledged the Messiah as Lord.

Throughout Sacred Scripture, Jesus demonstrates both natures. He sleeps, eats, becomes hungry, and experiences thirst-signs of His humanity. He performs miracles, forgives sins, and exercises divine authority-signs of His divinity.

Therefore, this Gospel bears witness to the dual nature of Jesus Christ. He is truly God and truly man. He is David’s Son and David’s Lord. He possesses both a human nature and a divine nature united in one Person.

Let us pray that we may always worship Jesus Christ as He truly is: the God-Man, fully God and fully man, our Lord and Savior.

Amen.

Mass Readings and Reflection for June 4th, 2026

Rirst Reading: (2 Timothy 2:8–15)

Responsorial Psalm: (Psalm 25)

Response: O Lord, make me know your ways.

Gospel Acclamation

Alleluia, Alleluia.

Blessed are you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth; you have revealed to little ones the mysteries of the Kingdom.

Alleluia.

Gospel: (Mark 12:28–34)

Reflection:

A young lady, beautifully dressed, was walking to a job interview. Unfortunately, a passing car drove through a pothole and splashed dirty water all over her clothes.

Disappointed and upset, she watched as the car stopped and reversed. A mature woman stepped out and sincerely apologized, pleading with the young lady not to take offense at the driver's carelessness.

Instead of accepting the apology, the young lady lost her temper. She pushed the woman into the muddy water and angrily declared:

"Now it is fifty-fifty."

The woman was shocked.

She gently replied:

"I apologized to you. You should have been patient with me."

But the young lady refused to listen.

The woman got back into her car and drove away.

The young lady then bought another set of clothes and continued to her interview.

To her surprise, when she arrived, she discovered that the same woman was the owner of the company where she had come seeking employment.

At that very moment, she realized that her dream job had slipped away because of one moment of impatience.

Had she accepted her suffering calmly and patiently, the job might have been hers.

One moment of impatience destroyed an opportunity that suffering itself was preparing to bring.

I know suffering is painful and unpleasant. Nobody enjoys it. Yet our response to suffering often determines whether it becomes a blessing or a burden.

St. Paul understood this truth when he wrote:

"I endure everything for the sake of the elect, that they also may obtain the salvation that is in Christ Jesus."

Our suffering can become a source of grace not only for ourselves but also for others.

When we endure suffering patiently—especially suffering that comes through rejection, insults, persecution, misunderstanding, or injustice—our perseverance strengthens the faith of those who watch us.

Unfortunately, many people lose the blessings hidden within suffering because they react with anger, bitterness, complaint, or despair.

Instead of trusting God, they lose patience.

Instead of persevering, they give up.

Instead of blessing God, they curse their circumstances.

Yet Scripture gives us many examples of people who accepted suffering faithfully and were richly rewarded.

Look at Jesus Christ.

When He suffered, He did not threaten.

When He was insulted, He did not return insult for insult.

As St. Peter says:

"When He suffered, He did not threaten."

Isaiah tells us:

"I gave my back to those who struck me, and my cheeks to those who pulled out my beard."

Because of His obedience, God highly exalted Him and gave Him the name above every other name.

Look at Job.

His wife urged him to curse God.

His friends mocked him.

Yet Job declared:

"The Lord gave, and the Lord has taken away. Blessed be the name of the Lord."

In the end, God restored everything he had lost and blessed him abundantly.

Look at Joseph, the son of Jacob.

His brothers sold him into slavery.

Potiphar's wife falsely accused him.

He was imprisoned unjustly.

Yet through every suffering, God was writing a greater story.

Joseph eventually became governor of Egypt.

Dear children of God, St. Paul reminds us:

"If we suffer with Him, we shall reign with Him. If we have died with Him, we shall also live with Him."

Therefore, whenever suffering comes, do not curse.

Do not complain.

Do not lose hope.

Do not lose patience.

That suffering may be the very path God is using to bring you to victory.

Remember the young lady in our story.

She did not know what God was preparing for her.

Had she remained patient, her suffering would have become the doorway to a blessing.

Likewise, when God permits suffering in your life, He is often writing a chapter whose ending you cannot yet see.

Do not give up.

Your perseverance is not only for your own salvation.

As St. Paul says, it is also for the elect-for those who are watching you, learning from you, and drawing strength from your example.

Your story may become the faith booster someone else desperately needs.

Therefore, courage, dear child of God.

Whatever suffering you may be enduring today, God has not abandoned you.

He is still writing your story.

Accept your suffering patiently and faithfully.

Trust Him.

For what seems today like a burden may tomorrow reveal itself as a blessing.

Amen.

Mass Readings and Reflection June 3rd 2026 and the Memorial of the Ugandan Martyrs

First Reading: (Timothy 1:1–12)

Responsorial Psalm: (Psalm 123)

Response:
To you I lift up my eyes, O you who are enthroned in the heavens.

Gospel Acclamation

Alleluia, alleluia.
“I am the resurrection and the life,” says the Lord;
“whoever believes in me will never die.”
Alleluia, alleluia.

Gospel: (Mark 12:18–27)

Reflection:

Today’s readings give us a powerful call to courage, fidelity, and hope.

Saint Paul tells Timothy:

“God did not give us a spirit of fear, but of power and love and self-control.”

And in the Gospel, Jesus reminds us that God is “not the God of the dead, but of the living.”

These words speak beautifully to the witness of the Ugandan Martyrs, especially Saint Charles Lwanga and Saint Kizito.

Before Christianity arrived in Buganda, the people already possessed a rich culture, discipline, courage, and deep communal values. The Gospel did not erase those gifts; rather, it transformed and fulfilled them.

The martyrs were not suddenly made brave. They already knew loyalty, sacrifice, and endurance. But when they encountered Christ, their courage found its deepest meaning.

King Mwanga II viewed their conversion as a threat to loyalty within his kingdom. Yet these young men chose fidelity to Christ above fear of suffering and death.

Saint Kizito, only a young boy, faced martyrdom with extraordinary courage. Tradition tells us he desired to die quickly for Christ. Such courage comes from hearts rooted in truth and strengthened by grace.

The Ugandan Martyrs teach us that faith does not destroy what is good in culture; it elevates and fulfills it.

Like the Sadducees in today’s Gospel, the world often sees life only through earthly limits. But the martyrs believed in the God of the living. They knew that fidelity to Christ was not the end of life, but its fulfillment.

Today we are also asked:
Where is our ultimate allegiance?

The pressures may be different-comfort, fear, success, public opinion-but the call remains the same: remain faithful to Christ.

May the witness of Saint Charles Lwanga and his companions strengthen us to live courageously, love faithfully, and trust always in the God of the living.

Amen.

Have a wonderful day.

The Fate of the Squirrel Crossing the Road on the Morning of June 2nd, 2026

 

A Morning Thought on a Busy Road

This morning, during rush hour on one of Long Island’s busiest roads, my attention was fixed on the traffic ahead-as it always is when the pace is fast and unpredictable. Commuters were doing what they do best: rushing, weaving, focusing intensely on getting to work safely and on time.

That’s when I noticed it-a small squirrel darting toward the road, determined to make it to the other side. For a brief moment, it felt like time slowed. But reality caught up quickly. Two cars in front of me struck the poor animal before it could complete its crossing.

As I continued driving, I couldn’t help but reflect on what had just happened before my eyes. Why would the squirrel attempt to cross such a dangerous road at that exact moment? Rush hour is chaotic even for us-people with the awareness and fear of how dangerous traffic can be. Many drivers are already on edge, cautious of reckless behavior from others on the road. Most of us wouldn’t dare take such a risk on foot, let alone in the middle of fast-moving traffic.

Of course, the squirrel doesn’t have the capacity to understand what a vehicle traveling at 70 or 75 miles per hour truly means. It doesn’t recognize the scale of danger the way we do. It simply acts on instinct-moving toward its goal without the ability to weigh the consequences.

Still, witnessing that moment lingered with me longer than I expected. It served as a reminder of how different our worlds can be, even when we share the same space. We move through our routines, focused on our responsibilities and concerns, while small creatures navigate that same environment in ways we can hardly comprehend. 

It was just a brief moment during a routine commute-but one that stayed with me enough to write it down and share.

And for all I know, that poor animal was also commuting to work, it just so happened that it couldn't make it.

Pal Ronnie

Mass Readings and Reflection for June 2nd, 2026

First Reading: (Peter 3:12–15, 17–18)

Responsorial Psalm: (Psalm 90)

Response: O Lord, you have been our refuge from generation to generation.

Gospel Acclamation

Alleluia, alleluia.

Remain in my love, says the Lord; whoever remains in me will bear much fruit.

Alleluia.

Gospel: (Mark: 12:13–17)

Reflection:

Today’s Gospel begins with people approaching Jesus with sweet and flattering words. They praised Him publicly, pretending admiration and friendship, yet their hearts were filled with malice. Their goal was not to honor Jesus, but to trap Him.

They said:
“Teacher, we know you are truthful and teach the way of God honestly.”

Beautiful words-but empty hearts.

Jesus immediately recognized their hypocrisy. He knew that behind their smiles was a hidden agenda.

Beloved, this remains true even in our own lives. Often, those who hurt us most are not strangers, but people who pretend to be close to us. They smile with us, praise us publicly, gather information from us, and later use it against us behind our backs.

This kind of false friendship is painful because it comes disguised as love and loyalty.

The Gospel teaches us two important lessons.

1. Be Wise About the Company You Keep

Not everyone who praises us truly wishes us well. Some people speak kindly in front of us but destroy our name behind us. Over time, their actions reveal their intentions.

Jesus teaches us to be discerning, not suspicious of everyone, but wise enough to recognize hypocrisy when it becomes evident.

At the same time, we must not respond with hatred. Pray for such people. Jesus Himself loved His enemies and prayed for those who persecuted Him.

2. Let our friendships Be genuine.

If we truly care about someone, we do not smile before them and then wound them behind their backs. True friendship is honest, sincere, and charitable.

If correction is needed, love speaks privately-not through gossip, humiliation, or betrayal.

Let our smiles be genuine. Let our words be truthful. Let us never become the hidden cankerworm destroying relationships from within.

Today, let's beware of those who come with flattery. And when we show kindness to others, let it come sincerely from the heart.

Amen.

God bless you 🙏 

Pal Ronnie 

Beware of Hackers: A Warning to Be Safe Online While Using WhatsApp and Others

This is both a warning and a reminder to remain vigilant online.

Just yesterday, someone attempted to hack my WhatsApp account. How do I know? Because, thankfully, I was alert enough to recognize what was happening before it was too late.

At around 9 p.m., I missed a phone call from a number I did not recognize. Normally, I do not answer or return unknown calls. However, because I work with various contractors and often receive work-related calls from unfamiliar numbers, I assumed it might have been someone trying to update me about work come Monday morning. So, I decided to call back.

A woman answered and said, “Oh, this is Pat. Remember me?”

I did not remember any “Pat,” but I continued listening. She then said she was organizing a Zoom prayer meeting for the next morning and needed my help setting it up. She told me she had just sent me a code and asked me to read it back to her.

At that exact moment, I received a text message from WhatsApp containing a six-digit verification code.

Immediately, alarm bells went off in my head.

The caller kept insisting that I read the code aloud, but I pretended not to understand what she was talking about. If I had given her that code, she would have gained access to my WhatsApp account. From there, they could have taken control of my contacts, impersonated me, and used my account for all kinds of fraudulent and malicious activities.

This is why I am sharing this story as a warning.

Scammers are becoming increasingly sophisticated. They know how to target people emotionally and psychologically. In this case, they used the idea of a prayer meeting because they know prayer is a soft spot for many of us. Prayer connects people to God, to hope, and to community. Unfortunately, there are individuals willing to exploit even faith and spirituality for criminal purposes. Dear God, have mercy. 

Please be careful.

Never share verification codes sent to your phone with anyone, no matter how convincing they sound. Legitimate companies like WhatsApp will never call and ask you to read back a verification code. Don't open random text with links. Attachments with PDFs. They are risky for PC viruses and scams. 

Stay alert. Stay safe online. And do not let anyone manipulate your kindness, your faith, or your trust.

Have a wonderful day.

I remain,
Pal Ronnie

Mass Reading and Reflection for June 1st, 2026

First Reading: (2 Peter 1:2–7)

The Word of the Lord.
Thanks be to God.

Responsorial Psalm: (Psalm 91)

Response:

O my God, I trust in you.

Gospel: (Mark 12:1–12)

Reflection

Today’s Gospel presents the parable of the wicked tenants. The owner of the vineyard entrusted his property to tenants, expecting them to care for it and render fruits in due season. Instead, they refused accountability. They beat the servants sent to them and eventually killed the owner’s beloved son.

Jesus used this parable to describe the attitude of those who reject God and desire to live life on their own terms.

The vineyard represents life itself. God is the owner, the true landlord. We are only tenants. Life does not belong to us; it is entrusted to us by God. One day, we shall render an account of how we used this gift.

The tenants in the Gospel behaved as though the vineyard belonged to them. They wanted complete control. In the same way, many people today live as though they are the owners of their lives, forgetting God completely.

When people reject God’s commandments, ignore prayer, refuse repentance, or silence those who preach the truth, they imitate the wicked tenants. God sent prophets, apostles, and finally His own Son, Jesus Christ, yet many rejected them because they did not want correction or accountability.

But beloved, a tenant is not the landlord.

We cannot live however we please and expect no accountability. The time will come when the landlord will ask for an account of His property. That moment is death and judgment.

This life is God’s gift. Therefore, we must bear fruits worthy of Him:

• fruits of love,

• peace,

• forgiveness,

• kindness,

• generosity,

• holiness,

• and obedience to the Gospel.

Whenever we sin deliberately and refuse God’s ways, we act as though we own our lives. But the truth remains: we are only caretakers of what belongs to God.

May his example inspire us to live faithfully and responsibly as good tenants in God’s vineyard.

Let us pray for the grace always to remember:

• that God is the owner of life,

• that we are only tenants,

• and that one day we shall render an account before Him.

May we therefore live according to the instructions of the true Landlord-God.

Amen.

God bless you.

Hempstead Village Is Money-Hungry: I Got Three Tickets at the Same Time

Last week, I was a guest at 64 Ingraham Blvd in Hempstead Village. On the very first day I arrived, I asked the host directly about the parking rules. She told me the only day I could not park there was Thursday from 8pm to 12pm. Simple, clear, and straightforward. So I parked legally-or so I thought.

The next day, Wednesday, I walked out to my car and found not one ticket, not two tickets, but three tickets issued at the exact same time. Three. In this economy, that level of punishment is beyond excessive. It feels predatory.

I am a law-abiding citizen and a travel clinician who came here from Rockland County to work. I do not cause trouble, I do not break rules, and I do not intentionally ignore regulations. My car currently does not have inspection because I have a documented reason. There is paperwork inside the vehicle explaining why it did not pass and that I am actively in the process of getting it fixed.

I tinted my car because, after long shifts, I am sometimes too exhausted to drive home safely, and I sleep in my car for protection and rest. I have never been ticketed or even warned for any of this anywhere else-not in Rockland, not in New Jersey, not in Connecticut, and not at any of the hospitals where I have worked throughout the region.

But the moment I arrived in Hempstead Village, suddenly I was treated like a criminal. Three tickets at once. No warning. No courtesy. No proportionality.

It feels less like public safety enforcement and more like revenue extraction-a village balancing its budget on the backs of working people who are simply trying to do their jobs and rest safely.

I do not deserve this kind of punishment, and neither does anyone else.

Trust No Politicians

 

For Laughter Only

 

Mass Readings and Reflection for the Solemnity of the Most Holy Trinity Sunday, May 31, 2026

First Reading: (Exodus 34:4–6, 8–9)

Responsorial Psalm: (Daniel 3)

Response:

You are to be praised and highly exalted forever.

Second Reading: (2 Corinthians 13:11–13)

Gospel: (John 3:16–18)

Reflection:

Today in Church, we celebrates the Solemnity of the Most Holy Trinity, the Sunday after Pentecost. On this great feast, the Church celebrates God as He is in His very being: one God in three divine Persons, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

Our understanding of the Trinity comes through Jesus Christ Himself. If Jesus had not revealed it, we would not know this mystery. Throughout His ministry, Jesus spoke clearly about the Father and the Holy Spirit.

He said:

“The Father and I are one.” (John 10:30)

And again:

“To have seen me is to have seen the Father.” (John 14:9)

Jesus also spoke about the Holy Spirit, the Counselor and Advocate who comes from the Father. In John 16:7, He tells His disciples that when He goes, He will send the Holy Spirit from the Father.

At important moments in the life of Jesus, the three Persons of the Trinity were revealed together. At His baptism, the Holy Spirit descended upon Him, while the voice of the Father was heard from heaven. Before His ascension, Jesus commanded His apostles:

“Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.”

Notice that He did not simply say, “in the name of God,” but specifically named the three divine Persons.

In today’s second reading, St. Paul concludes his letter with these beautiful words:

“The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ,
the love of God,
and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit
be with you all.”

This is the same greeting used at every Holy Mass. It reminds us constantly of the presence and communion of the Blessed Trinity.

The Father is God.
The Son is God.
The Holy Spirit is God.
Yet there are not three gods, but one God.

This remains a mystery beyond the complete understanding of the human mind. We can only grasp it partially because God is infinitely greater than our understanding. Jesus reveals this mystery to us, and faith allows us to enter into it.

But beyond understanding the Trinity intellectually, today’s feast teaches us something very important about how we are called to live.

The Trinity is a perfect communion of persons, united in love, purpose, peace, and mission. Though distinct, the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit live in complete unity.

That is why St. Paul encourages us today:

“Agree with one another, live in peace, and the God of love and peace will be with you.”

The Trinity becomes the model for our families, communities, friendships, and the Church itself.

Do we live in unity?
Do we accept one another with love?
Do we embrace differences peacefully?
Do we build community?

The Blessed Trinity teaches us that true life is found in communion, not division; in love, not hatred; in peace, not conflict.

As we celebrate this solemnity, may we strive to imitate the life of the Trinity, a community of persons bonded in love and unity.

May the Blessed Trinity, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, always remain with us and help us to live in peace, love, and communion with one another.

Amen.

Big Three

 

Mass Readings and Reflection on Saturday, May 30th 2026

First Reading: (Jude 17, 20–25)

Responsorial Psalm: (Psalm 63)

Response: My soul is thirsting for you, O Lord my God.

Gospel Acclamation:

Alleluia, alleluia.

“I am the way, the truth, and the life, says the Lord.”
-John 14:6

Alleluia.

Gospel: (Mark 11:27–33)

Reflection

Today’s readings centers on truth, responsibility, and spiritual integrity, especially in how we relate to one another.

In the First Reading, St. Jude gives a direct and practical command: the Christian life is not meant to be lived alone. We are responsible not only for our own faith, but also for helping one another grow closer to God.

He outlines three important responses toward others:

• showing mercy to those who doubt,

• rescuing those who are spiritually in danger,

• and exercising discernment and caution when necessary.

This teaches us that love is not passive. Genuine Christian love does not ignore sin, avoid difficult conversations, or pretend everything is fine. True love seeks the eternal good of another person.

As Scripture says:

“Faithful are the wounds of a friend.”-Proverbs 27:6

A faithful friend is not simply someone who comforts us, but someone who helps lead us toward truth and holiness.

The Gospel presents the opposite attitude. The religious leaders questioned Jesus, but they were not sincerely seeking truth. Instead, they were trying to protect their position and reputation. Their hearts were closed, and because of this, they could not recognize the truth standing before them.

This connects directly to our relationships and daily interactions.

Some people are open and willing to listen-they can be guided gently.

Some are spiritually struggling or in danger-they require courage and intervention.

Others may resist truth completely-and in those situations, wisdom and discernment are necessary.

Christian maturity means knowing how to respond with both charity and prudence.

The Responsorial Psalm gives us the foundation for all of this:

“My soul is thirsting for you, O Lord my God.”

Only when we are rooted in God can we:

• help others without pride,

• correct others without harshness,

• forgive without bitterness,

• and protect our own spiritual lives without fear.

A true Christian friendship is not based merely on comfort or approval. It is built upon helping one another grow in holiness.

Christian friendship means:

• encouraging what is good,

• correcting what is harmful,

• supporting one another in weakness,

• and always seeking the eternal good of the other person.

When our hearts truly thirst for God, we become people who lead others not toward ourselves, but toward Christ.

Amen.

Mass Reading and Reflection on Friday May 29th, 2026: Our Lord vs. The Money Changers

First Reading: (1 Peter 4:7–13)

Responsorial Psalm: R. The Lord comes to judge the earth.

Gospel: (Mark 11:11–26)

Then he taught them, saying,
“Is it not written, My house shall be called
a house of prayer for all peoples?
But you have made it a den of thieves.”

Reflection:

Today Gospel is one of those. Very heavy, the fig tree was cursed to death and the money changers in the temple area drove out. Powerful. We can reflects on the call to live with an eternal outlook, reminding us that “the end is at hand” urges us to focus on what truly matters, prayer, love, and service.

The themes today are:

1. Sacrificial Love
   Loving others deeply unites the Body of Christ and covers a multitude of sins.

2. Stewardship
   Each person receives gifts from the Holy Spirit and is called to use those gifts in service to others.

3. Endurance in Trials
   Suffering is part of discipleship. By sharing in Christ’s suffering, we prepare to rejoice in His glory.

There: We are called to live daily with

• Prayerful hearts
• Selfless service
• Forgiving spirits

Amen!

Have a wonderful weekend.

Pal Ronnie

Mass Readings and Reflection for Thursday May 28th, 2028

First Reading: (1 Peter 2:2–5, 9–12)

Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 100- “Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth.”-Psalm 100:1

Alleluia: (John 8:12)

“I am the light of the world, says the Lord; whoever follows me will have the light of life.”-John 8:12

Gospel: (Mark 10:46–52)

Reflection:

Today’s Gospel presents one of the most moving encounters in the ministry of Jesus: the healing of blind Bartimaeus.

Bartimaeus was physically blind, poor, and dependent on others. He sat by the roadside begging, overlooked by society. Yet despite his blindness, he saw something many others failed to see: he recognized who Jesus truly was.

While the crowd saw merely “Jesus of Nazareth,” Bartimaeus cried out:

“Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!”
- Mark 10:47

By calling Jesus “Son of David,” Bartimaeus acknowledged Him as the promised Messiah.

Many people tried to silence him. They considered him unimportant, inconvenient, and unworthy of attention. Yet Bartimaeus refused to remain silent. In fact, the more people tried to stop him, the louder he cried out.

There is a lesson here for all of us.

Sometimes life itself tries to silence our faith:

• disappointment,

• suffering,

• unanswered prayers,

• failures,

• criticism from others,

• or even our own sins and fears.

But Bartimaeus teaches us perseverance in prayer. True faith keeps calling upon the Lord even when answers seem delayed.

As Scripture says:

“Ask, and it will be given you; search, and you will find; knock, and the door will be opened for you.”
-Matthew 7:7

When Jesus stopped and called Bartimaeus forward, He asked him a powerful question:

“What do you want me to do for you?”
- Mark 10:51

At first this question seems obvious. Surely Jesus already knew the man was blind. Yet Jesus wanted Bartimaeus to express his desire personally and honestly.

God also asks us that same question today.

What do we truly desire from the Lord?
Do we seek healing? Peace? Forgiveness? Purpose? Freedom from sin? Greater faith?

Bartimaeus answered with humility and clarity:

“My teacher, let me see again.”
- Mark 10:51

And Jesus replied:

“Go; your faith has made you well.”
- Mark 10:52

Faith opened Bartimaeus not only to physical sight, but also to spiritual sight.

One of the most beautiful moments in this Gospel is what happens after the miracle. Bartimaeus did not simply walk away and return to his old life. Scripture says:

“Immediately he regained his sight and followed him on the way.”
-Mark 10:52

Once he encountered Christ, he became a disciple.

Many people want blessings from God, but not necessarily a relationship with God. Bartimaeus desired both healing and closeness to Jesus. His encounter with Christ changed the direction of his life.

Often, we too cling to things that give us false security-our “walking sticks.” These may be pride, comfort, money, unhealthy habits, bitterness, or dependence on worldly approval. Yet real healing begins when we trust Jesus enough to let go.

As Saint Paul reminds us:

“For we walk by faith, not by sight.”
-2 Corinthians 5:7

The Gospel also challenges us to reflect on how we treat others. Some people in the crowd tried to silence Bartimaeus, while others helped lead him to Jesus.

Every day we make the same choice:

• we can discourage people,

• ignore their suffering,

• and judge them,

or we can become instruments that bring others closer to Christ.

Jesus reminds us:

“Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.”
-Matthew 25:40

Today, let us ask the Lord for the faith of Bartimaeus:

• faith that perseveres,

• faith that cries out for mercy,

• faith that trusts completely,

• and faith that follows Jesus wholeheartedly.

And may we never be afraid to pray with confidence:

“Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me.”
-Mark 10:47

Amen.

Help When You Can

 

The Day a Stranger Reminded Me About Our Common Humanity

I walked into CVS the other day with a simple plan: grab a few items and get out. Nothing special. But the moment I stepped inside, something unusual happened, something so rare now that it almost startled me.

A woman waiting at the cashier looked up, met my eyes, and gave me one of the warmest smiles I’ve seen in a long time. Not distracted. Not half‑present. A real smile.
Like humans do, I returned it and said hello. And just like that, a conversation erupted, naturally, effortlessly, the way it used to before the world got swallowed by screens.

I told her how refreshing it was to see someone not glued to a phone. Then I shared my two recent “experiments”,  how I went into two different stores, intentionally leaving my phone in the car, hoping to talk to anyone who wasn’t staring at theirs. Both attempts failed.

She laughed, then admitted she had to “confess.” She lifted her hand and showed me her phone, which she had been hiding behind her.
“It died,” she said, smiling again.

We both burst out laughing. It was honest, human, and real.

In that small moment, we acknowledged something bigger than the two of us, how far we’ve drifted from each other, how much we’ve surrendered to these devices, and how strange it feels to meet someone who is actually present.

We ended our conversation with a simple agreement:
We have to strive, daily, to detach ourselves from these phones and talk to each other again.

A small encounter.
A warm smile.
A reminder that humanity isn’t gone, it’s just waiting for us to look up.

Zscaler Didn't Have a Good Day Today

 

Mass Readings and Reflection for May 27th 2026

 

First Reading: (1 Peter 1:18–25)

Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 147

Response: Praise the Lord, O Jerusalem.

Gospel Acclamation:

Alleluia, alleluia.
The Son of Man came to serve and to give His life as a ransom for all.
Alleluia.

Gospel Mark: (Mark 10:32–45)

Reflection:

Reflecting on today’s Gospel, one striking moment stands out:

“When the ten heard this, they began to be angry with James and his brother John.”

Why were they upset? Was it because James and John asked for something inappropriate, or because the others had not thought to ask first?

It brings to mind a familiar childhood experience. Perhaps many of us remember a family outing when one sibling quickly shouted, “Shotgun!” to claim the front seat in the car. The others became upset-not necessarily because the seat itself mattered, but because someone else got there first.

Ironically, everyone was still heading to the same destination.

In the same way, Jesus teaches that what matters most is not where we sit in glory, but that we are with Him. Even more important is the path that leads there. The road to greatness is not paved with privilege, superiority, or power over others. It is paved with service.

Jesus says:

“Whoever wishes to become great among you must be your servant.”

The Son of God Himself came not to be served, but to serve. Jesus demonstrated this through His entire life, washing the feet of His disciples, healing the sick, comforting the brokenhearted, and ultimately offering His life on the Cross.

Jesus does not merely preach service; He lives it.

To follow Christ means embracing servant leadership. Service often requires sacrifice. We cannot truly help another person without giving something of ourselves, our time, energy, comfort, patience, or attention.

The measure of greatness in the Kingdom of God is humility, self-sacrifice, and unconditional love.

Many people look to saints like Saint Teresa of Calcutta for inspiration in serving others. Yet most of us are not called to extraordinary public missions. Perhaps we are called instead to the “Little Way” of Saint Thérèse of Lisieux.

Her spirituality focused on doing small things with great love. She believed even the smallest action could become holy when done for God. She once spoke about carefully folding napkins at the dinner table as though Jesus Himself were coming to dine.

That is the heart of Christian service.

Every day presents opportunities to serve:

• letting someone with only a few groceries go ahead of us in line,

• showing patience to an overwhelmed waitress,

• holding an elevator door open,

• sincerely listening to a spouse, child, or friend,

• sharing food with a neighbour,

• praying for someone quietly carrying a burden.

These acts may seem small, but in God’s eyes they are powerful expressions of love.

Peter reminds us in today’s first reading to “love one another deeply from a pure heart.” A pure heart is a servant’s heart, a heart like Christ’s.

True greatness does not consist in what we possess or in what position we hold. Greatness is found in how we love and serve others.

Amen 🙏 

Insomnia Cookies, Will You Eat That?

 No thanks to insomnia cookies 

Mass Readings and Reflection on Tuesday May 27th 2026

 

First Reading: (1 Peter 1:10–16)

Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 98

“The Lord has made known His victory.”

Gospel Acclamation

Alleluia, Alleluia.
Blessed are You, Father, Lord of heaven and earth;
You have revealed to little ones the mysteries of the kingdom.
Alleluia.

Gospel: (Mark10: 28–31)

Reflection

Today’s Gospel focuses on the cost and reward of discipleship. Peter reminds Jesus that the disciples left everything behind to follow Him. Jesus does not deny the sacrifice involved in following Him; instead, He promises a deeper life and eternal reward.

True discipleship requires letting go of comfort, control, ego, sinful habits, and sometimes even personal expectations. Following Christ is not merely about receiving blessings, but loving and serving God because He is Lord.

How Many Dots?

 

Look Closely

 

Seen It All

 

In Memory of All Who Lost their Lives for Nation

 

Mass Readings and Reflection for May 25th 2026

First Reading: (Revelation 21:1–5a)

Responsorial Psalm: 

Response: Among you is the great and holy One of Israel.

Gospel: (John 19:25–34)

Reflection

Today the Church honors the Blessed Virgin Mary as Mother of the Church. At the foot of the Cross, Jesus entrusted His mother not only to the beloved disciple, but to all who would follow Him. In that sacred moment, Mary became the spiritual mother of every Christian.

Mary’s life reveals complete trust in God. She accepted the Father’s will at the Annunciation, lovingly raised Jesus, and remained faithful even in suffering beneath the Cross. She was also present at Pentecost, praying with the apostles as the Holy Spirit descended upon the early Church.

As Mother of the Church, Mary continues to guide believers toward her Son. She teaches us obedience, humility, courage, and perseverance in faith. Like Mary, we are called to stand firm in difficult moments, trust God’s promises, and serve others with love.

The vision from Revelation reminds us that God is making all things new. Through Christ, sorrow and death do not have the final word. Mary, our mother, walks with the Church as we journey toward that heavenly Jerusalem where God will dwell fully with His people forever.

May we follow her example, remain faithful to Christ, and seek her loving intercession each day.

Amen.

For the Time Capsule ⏲️

 

Do We Have a Deal?

 

Happy Pentecost

 

Mass Readings and Reflection Sunday, May 24, 2026

First Reading: (Acts 2:1–11)

Responsorial Psalm: (Psalm 104)

Response: Lord, send forth your Spirit and renew the face of the earth.

Second Reading: (1 Corinthians 12:3–7, 12–13)

Gospel: (John 20:19–23)

Reflection

Today, the church celebrates Pentecost Sunday, the birthday of the Church. Fifty days after Easter, the Holy Spirit descended upon the apostles, transforming them from fearful men hiding behind locked doors into bold witnesses of Christ.

The Spirit gave them courage, wisdom, and strength to preach the Gospel. Through Peter’s first sermon, thousands were converted and baptized. Pentecost reminds us that the Church is alive because the Holy Spirit is alive within her.

The Holy Spirit united people from many nations and languages into one family of faith. This is the beauty of the Church: though we come from different backgrounds, we are united by the love of Christ.

The Holy Spirit is invisible, yet His presence is seen through His fruits: love, peace, unity, joy, kindness, goodness, and forgiveness. Wherever these are found, the Spirit of God is at work.

The Spirit is symbolized in many ways: wind, fire, breath, water, light, and the dove. Jesus breathed on the apostles and said, “Receive the Holy Spirit,” showing that the Spirit is our life, strength, and companion.

St. Paul reminds us that spiritual gifts are given not for pride or display, but for the good of the community. Even the gift of tongues is meaningless without love. As Scripture says, if we have every gift but do not have love, we are nothing.

Therefore, the greatest sign that the Holy Spirit lives in us is not how loudly we speak, but how deeply we love.

Today, let us pray for a fresh outpouring of the Holy Spirit upon our lives. May the Spirit strengthen us to become bold witnesses of the Gospel and help us live every day as true children of God.

Come Holy Spirit. Fill our hearts with love, peace, and courage. Renew in us the fire of faith, and help us live like people who truly have the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Happy Birthday to the Church. Thank you, Holy Spirit 💖 

The $200 Billion Dollar Plus Companies

These are public companies with market value of over $200 billion dollars.

We will come back in future to see where they stand.

Ticker	Company	Sector / Industry	Approx. Market Cap
AAPL	Apple	Technology – Consumer Electronics	~$3.2T
ABBV	AbbVie	Healthcare – Pharmaceuticals	~$350B
AMAT	Applied Materials	Semiconductors – Equipment	~$190B
AMD	Advanced Micro Devices	Semiconductors	~$260B
AMZN	Amazon	Consumer / Cloud Computing	~$2.1T
ARM	Arm Holdings	Semiconductors – IP	~$150B
ASML	ASML	Semiconductor Equipment	~$420B
AVGO	Broadcom	Semiconductors / Infrastructure Software	~$1.0T
AXP	American Express	Financials – Credit Services	~$200B
AZN	AstraZeneca	Healthcare – Pharmaceuticals	~$250B
BABA	Alibaba Group	E-Commerce / Cloud	~$250B
BAC	Bank of America	Financials – Banking	~$340B
BHP	BHP	Materials – Mining	~$140B
BRK-A	Berkshire Hathaway	Conglomerate / Insurance	~$1.1T
BRK-B	Berkshire Hathaway	Conglomerate / Insurance	~$1.1T
C	Citigroup	Financials – Banking	~$160B
CAT	Caterpillar	Industrials – Machinery	~$180B
COST	Costco	Consumer Staples – Retail	~$450B
CSCO	Cisco	Technology – Networking	~$240B
CVX	Chevron	Energy – Oil & Gas	~$300B
GE	GE Aerospace	Industrials – Aerospace	~$250B
GEV	GE Vernova	Energy Infrastructure	~$120B
GOOG	Alphabet	Internet / AI / Advertising	~$2.3T
GOOGL	Alphabet	Internet / AI / Advertising	~$2.3T
GS	Goldman Sachs	Financials – Investment Banking	~$210B
HD	Home Depot	Consumer – Retail	~$350B
HSBC	HSBC	Financials – Banking	~$220B
IBM	IBM	Enterprise Technology / AI	~$250B
INTC	Intel	Semiconductors	~$140B
JNJ	Johnson & Johnson	Healthcare	~$360B
JPM	JPMorgan Chase	Financials – Banking	~$700B
KLAC	KLA	Semiconductor Equipment	~$120B
KO	Coca-Cola	Consumer Staples – Beverage	~$320B
LIN	Linde	Materials – Industrial Gas	~$220B
LLY	Eli Lilly	Healthcare – Pharmaceuticals	~$900B
LRCX	Lam Research	Semiconductor Equipment	~$150B
MA	Mastercard	Financial Technology	~$500B
MCD	McDonald's	Consumer – Restaurants	~$220B
META	Meta Platforms	Internet / AI / Advertising	~$1.8T
MRK	Merck & Co.	Healthcare – Pharmaceuticals	~$250B
MS	Morgan Stanley	Financials – Investment Banking	~$220B
MSFT	Microsoft	Software / Cloud / AI	~$3.4T
MU	Micron Technology	Semiconductors – Memory	~$180B
MUFG	Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group	Financials – Banking	~$170B
NFLX	Netflix	Communication Services	~$500B
NVDA	NVIDIA	Semiconductors / AI	~$4T+
NVS	Novartis	Healthcare – Pharmaceuticals	~$240B
ORCL	Oracle	Software / Cloud	~$700B
PANW	Palo Alto Networks	Cybersecurity	~$140B
PEP	PepsiCo	Consumer Staples	~$250B
PG	Procter & Gamble	Consumer Staples	~$420B
PLTR	Palantir Technologies	AI / Defense Software	~$350B
PM	Philip Morris International	Consumer Staples – Tobacco	~$260B
QCOM	Qualcomm	Semiconductors / Wireless	~$220B
RTX	RTX	Aerospace & Defense	~$180B
RY	Royal Bank of Canada	Financials – Banking	~$180B
SAP	SAP	Enterprise Software	~$350B
SHEL	Shell	Energy – Oil & Gas	~$240B
SNDK	Sandisk	Storage / Semiconductors	~$20–30B*
TM	Toyota Motor	Automotive	~$300B
TMUS	T-Mobile US	Telecom	~$250B
TSLA	Tesla	EV / AI / Energy	~$1.2T
TSM	Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company	Semiconductor Foundry	~$1.4T
TTE	TotalEnergies	Energy – Oil & Gas	~$150B
TXN	Texas Instruments	Analog Semiconductors	~$180B
UNH	UnitedHealth Group	Healthcare Insurance	~$300B
V	Visa	Financial Technology	~$700B
VZ	Verizon	Telecom	~$180B
WFC	Wells Fargo	Financials – Banking	~$250B
WMT	Walmart	Consumer Staples – Retail	~$800B
XOM	Exxon Mobil	Energy – Oil & Gas	~$500B

SNDK market cap depends on the current structure/spinoff valuation and can fluctuate significantly.