Mark-Lee T. Isidro

10/06/2025

Being salt and light of the world isn't just a job we do; it's a fundamental part of our identity...

You know, in our world, everyone seems to chase after riches, power, and control. But let me tell you something amazing. Jesus, our guide and teacher, often used little things to teach us deeper values that truly matter.

Today, I want to share with you something Jesus said in the Gospel reading of 𝗠𝗮𝘁𝘁𝗵𝗲𝘄 𝟱:𝟭𝟯-𝟭𝟲. It's a phrase that still resonates with us today: "You are the salt of the earth. You are the light of the world."

Now, hold on tight because what Jesus is saying here is important, and it's not up for debate. He's making a bold declaration and a promise to all of us.

When Jesus says, "You are the salt of the earth," what does that mean to you? How would you describe someone who is truly "the salt of the earth"? Maybe they're down-to-earth, humble, practical, or caring. Well, guess what? Each one of us can be "salt of the earth" in our own unique ways.

Think about salt for a moment. It preserves food, right? And in the hands of a skilled cook, it adds delicious flavor. But here's the thing: salt's work is often hidden. Similarly, as salt of the earth, we can make a real impact on others' lives, even if it's not always obvious.

But here's a warning from Jesus: If we lose our "saltiness," we lose our ability to bring flavor to life, and we become useless. I don't know about you, but that's not what I want for myself.

So, how do we keep ourselves "salty"? Well, for me, it means participating in Mass, having a daily prayer routine that suits me, reading the Bible, and doing good deeds. Jesus provides us with the bread of life, and it's our job to add flavor to it wherever we go. The bread of God needs the life-giving salt of our own lives.

When we commit to this, we also become a light to the world. Light is essential in so many ways. Just like plants need light to grow, we need light to see clearly. Without light, we stumble through life. And if we take Jesus' words seriously, we must share our light with everyone we meet. Because the light we shine is actually the light of Jesus radiating from within us.

So, let me ask you, how do you share your light? What are the acts of kindness that bring light into other people's lives? It could be as simple as sharing a smile, performing a kind act, noticing someone who needs help or encouragement, reaching out to a lonely person, or sitting with a friend who is ill. These small acts are like beams of light that brighten someone's day.

Of course, there will be times when we fall short and hide our light. We might wonder how we can live up to this promise. That's why I believe going to church is so important. When we gather in church, we hear words of confession and forgiveness that help us acknowledge our shortcomings. We receive God's forgiveness and love, and we're sent out once again to be salt and light for the world.

You know what? We won't be able to resist doing what salt and light do naturally—preserve, add flavor, illuminate, and guide. It's in our DNA because God created us to help each other and care for the world. Living into that identity is simply who we are.

Being salt and light isn't just a job we do; it's a fundamental part of our identity. Every time we come to church, we're reminded that no matter our successes or failures, no matter our good deeds or missteps, and no matter what we've been through, our essential identity as beloved children of God, called to be salt and light to the world, remains unchanged.

So, my friend, go out into your life today and always let your light shine brightly for others to see. Let your good deeds be a reflection of the goodness of our Heavenly Father.

𝗟𝗘𝗧 𝗨𝗦 𝗣𝗥𝗔𝗬:
Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for calling us to be the salt of the earth and the light of the world. We come before you humbly, recognizing that it is through your grace and love that we can fulfill this calling.

Lord, help us to be the salt that brings flavor and preservation to the lives of those around us. May our actions and words be a source of encouragement, kindness, and practical care for others. Guide us to make a positive impact, even in the smallest acts of love.

As we strive to be a light in this world, illuminate our paths so that we may see clearly and discern the needs of those we encounter. Let your light shine through us, radiating your love, hope, and joy to those who are in darkness.

When we stumble and fall short, Lord, remind us to seek forgiveness and restoration. Help us to continually grow in our faith and reliance on you, knowing that your grace covers our shortcomings.

May our lives be a testament to your love, and may others see our good works and give glory to you, our Heavenly Father.

In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

10/06/2025

Stay spiritually “salty” by staying close to God; don’t lose your flavor by compromising your faith.

09/06/2025

Jesus brought together two people who had gathered around the cross, demonstrating that from the cross flows peace, uniting God's people as a family...

Have you ever had a big fight with your sibling, where both of you ended up in tears? Maybe it got so intense that you both ran to your parents, hoping they would take your side and make things right? Or have you experienced the pain of a broken relationship, feeling like you were the only one suffering?

Usually, when we're in trouble or feeling hurt, we tend to focus only on ourselves and ignore the needs of others. But Jesus was different. Even in His own pain, He didn't become selfish or feel sorry for Himself. Instead, He reached out to meet the needs of others. Even as He was dying on the cross, Jesus had an open heart for those who were suffering.

In today's Gospel reading (John 19:25-27), we learn about a special gift that Jesus gave from the cross – He entrusted His mother, Mary, to the care of His disciple John, and He entrusted John to the care of His mother. As Catholics, we understand this to mean that Mary represents the Church, which is the Body of Christ. So, just as Mary looked after Jesus, she also looks after us. And Jesus, who gave us the beautiful sacrament of the Eucharist, sees us as His followers and entrusts us to the care of His mother.

These three verses hold a lot of meaning for us to ponder. Mary knew what it was like to suffer. She experienced the hardship of giving birth in a dirty stable far from home. She endured the fear of Herod wanting to harm her baby. She became a refugee in Egypt to protect her child. Mary witnessed the misunderstanding and mockery that her son endured from an entire nation. And now, at the foot of the cross, Mary suffers again as she watches Jesus being crucified for a crime He didn't commit.

Can you imagine what Mary must have been feeling in that moment? Let's try to imagine what was going through her heart. She saw Jesus' brow pierced with thorns. She watched His hands and feet being pierced and going numb. She heard His cry of thirst. Standing there, by the cross, was an immense torment for her. She had already been through so much, and now, seeing Jesus in pain was almost unbearable. This fulfills Simeon's prophecy in Luke 2:35.

John, the beloved disciple, also had witnessed Jesus being nailed to the cross. Then he went with Mary and the other women to stand near Jesus. Jesus must have looked down and recognized the grief in His mother's eyes, and there beside her was John. Jesus' love surpassed His own pain. He understood Mary's suffering, and He knew that, after His death, there might not be anyone to care for His mother. So, Jesus spoke to Mary and John, urging them to form a new relationship (see John 19:26-27).

At that moment, at the foot of the cross, where Jesus shed His blood and a woman embraced a boy and a boy embraced a woman, the Church, with a mother, was formed! Mary and John formed the Church through their relationship, guided by Jesus. They comforted and strengthened each other. They provided support and shared their lives together. And these are the same invitations for all of us.

When Jesus spoke those words from the cross, He showed us that from the cross flows healing for our broken hearts, restoration of relationships, and the creation of strong bonds (divine connections) that meet our human need for friendship and family. Jesus brought together two people who had gathered around the cross, demonstrating that from the cross flows peace, uniting God's people as a family.

If we draw near to the cross, Jesus will bring us into close relationships with other believers. He will bring us together with like-minded people who seek Him, so that we can serve the Lord together. Just like John and Mary, who weren't related by blood but became like mother and son in God's family, the bonds that tie us together in the family of faith are even stronger than those in our human relationships. The temporary bonds in this world are surpassed by the eternal bonds we share in God's family.

Jesus revealed God's provision for lonely and broken hearts. He understood what Mary was going through – her pain, her grief – and He made provisions for her. And what Jesus did for Mary, He wants to do for each of us. He understands us. He is sensitive to our needs. He knows our hurts and pains. He knows what you are going through, and He wants to care for you and provide for you.

So, my friends, let's remember that we are not alone on this journey of faith. We have each other. We have the example of Jesus, who showed us how to love unconditionally. It's up to us to extend our hands, hearts, and support to those around us, just as Jesus did on the cross.

Whether you're a new believer, a seasoned servant of the Church, or somewhere in between, you have a vital role to play in this family of faith. Embrace the diversity, the challenges, and the joys that come with it. Reach out to someone who might feel alone and be the one who makes a difference in their life.

Together, let's create a community where every person feels loved, accepted, and supported. Let's go out into the world, inspired by Jesus' example, and become beacons of love, transforming lives one act of kindness at a time.

Remember, my friends, love knows no boundaries, and together we can make a difference. You are part of an extraordinary family of faith. Embrace it, cherish it, and let it inspire you to love as Jesus loved.

Now, go forth with open hearts and spread the love that goes beyond boundaries. You've got this!

𝗟𝗘𝗧 𝗨𝗦 𝗣𝗥𝗔𝗬:
Dear Lord Jesus, thank you for showing us the depth of your love and compassion through your selfless actions on the cross. As we reflect on the relationship between Mary and John, help us understand the significance it holds for us as members of your Church.

We pray that you open our hearts to embrace the care and support of one another, just as Mary and John did. Teach us to strengthen and encourage each other in our faith journey, to be there for one another in times of struggle and pain.

Lord, we ask for your healing touch on our broken hearts and for the restoration of relationships in our lives. May the divine connections we form with fellow believers bring us the joy of friendship and the warmth of family.

In moments of loneliness and suffering, remind us that you understand our deepest pains and that you are always there to provide for us. Help us to draw closer to you, dear Jesus, and to experience the love and care you have for each one of us.

We pray all these things in your precious name. Amen.

09/06/2025

Even in agony, Jesus showed deep compassion and care for others. He entrusted His mother Mary to John...

08/06/2025

You have the power and a mission, my friend, to carry peace and love into the world, just as Jesus did. Embrace it, live it, and let it transform you and those around you...

Finding Peace and Mission in the Midst of Fear 🙏🏼☺️🕊️

Have you ever felt afraid? You know, that gripping feeling that makes you want to hide and lock yourself away from the world? Well, guess what? Even the disciples, those closest to Jesus, experienced that very same fear. Just like them, when things don't go as planned, we often find ourselves cowering behind locked doors.

But here's the amazing thing: Jesus understands that fear. No matter how tightly we try to lock those doors, He can break through and be present with us. It's like having a superhero who can pass through walls! No fear can keep Him away.

Now, when we talk about Pentecost, the celebration in the Church, we usually think about the incredible story in Acts 2. You know, the rushing wind, the tongues of fire, and the prayers in different languages. It's an awe-inspiring scene! But today, I want to tell you about another Pentecost story, one from our Gospel reading of 𝗝𝗼𝗵𝗻 𝟮𝟬:𝟭𝟵-𝟮𝟯.

Jesus, in His amazing love and understanding, came to the disciples when they were paralyzed with fear. Picture this: the doors were locked, just like the doors to their hearts, closed tightly because they were scared of the Jews. These were the same friends and brothers whom Jesus had called, but in their most challenging moment, they had deserted Him.

But Jesus didn't hold any grudges. He didn't say, "I told you so!" Instead, His first words to them were, "Peace be with you" or in Hebrew, "Shalom." This single word captured the very essence of Jesus—His unconditional, unshakable love. It revealed the heart of the Father. Imagine that! Even after everything He had been through—humiliation, abandonment, and even death—His love was limitless.

But that's not all. Jesus didn't stop at offering peace. He breathed on them, symbolically imparting the Holy Spirit, and commissioned them to forgive or withhold forgiveness. He showed them the power of forgiveness and how to release it, just as He had done. And they could only do this after being filled with the Spirit and hearing His guidance.

So, what does this mean for you and me? Well, it means that the risen Jesus, the Spirit of God, is now "in" us. It's like having a divine power source within us! Jesus promised this in John 14. And with this newfound peace from God, we have a mission. We can send that peace through prayer to those who are afraid, locked in fear, and in need of forgiveness. We can release them, just as Jesus releases His love and grace.

Today, I want to invite you to take a moment and let the word "Peace" echo in your mind and heart. Allow it to fill your whole being. This promise of peace is constant from Jesus to His followers—it's a gift that no one can take away from us. So, make it a habit to receive this gift of God's Spirit every day.

Remember what Jesus said: "Peace be with you! As the Father has sent Me, I am sending you."

You have a mission, my friend, to carry that peace and love into the world, just as Jesus did. Embrace it, live it, and let it transform you and those around you.

You're not alone in your fear, and you're not alone in this mission. Together, let's make a difference.

𝗟𝗘𝗧 𝗨𝗦 𝗣𝗥𝗔𝗬:
Loving God, in moments of fear and uncertainty, we come to you seeking peace. Just like the disciples behind locked doors, we too find ourselves needing your comforting presence. Help us understand that no matter how tightly we try to hide, you can break through and be with us.

Today, we reflect on the incredible love and forgiveness you showed to your disciples. Even after all they had done, you greeted them with "Peace be with you." May that same peace permeate our hearts, calming our fears and strengthening our faith.

Fill us with your Holy Spirit, just as you did with the disciples. Guide us in the path of forgiveness, teaching us when to release it and when to hold it back. Help us listen to your Spirit's voice, that we may be instruments of your grace and love in a world that so desperately needs it.

As we receive your peace, may we not keep it to ourselves but share it with others. We lift up those who are gripped by fear and in need of forgiveness. Through our prayers, may your peace flow into their lives, bringing healing, reconciliation, and a renewed sense of hope.

Thank you, Lord, for the promise of your peace, which surpasses all understanding. As you have sent Jesus, you now send us. Empower us to carry your peace, love, and grace wherever we go, making a difference in the lives of those we encounter.

We pray all this in the name of Jesus, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.

08/06/2025

We are called not only to be forgiven but also to extend forgiveness and become instruments of reconciliation.

08/06/2025

06/06/2025

Where is Jesus writing His Gospel in your life? How is He revealing His love, His call, and His identity to you so that others can witness it too?

"...Lord, what about this man?” - John 21:21b RSV

Does the opinion and destiny of others matter too much to you?

Have you ever felt discouraged because your own life story doesn't seem as amazing as someone else's? It's like seeing their highlight reel while feeling stuck with your own struggles. Or maybe you've questioned why God gave you a bigger and more challenging task compared to someone else. It's natural to experience moments of sibling rivalry or jealousy, right?

Well, guess what? This is a challenge that many of us face, and it's something we can learn from. Let's take a look at a story from the Gospel of John 21:20-25, which sheds light on this very issue.

In this story, we find Peter, one of Jesus' closest followers, who had previously betrayed Him but was forgiven and given the important role of shepherding God's flock. Despite being fully forgiven, Peter still struggled with his impulsive nature. He heard about his own future, which involved facing death on a cross, and then he became curious about what would happen to John, another disciple he cared about.

Peter wondered why he was destined to die on a cross while the beloved disciple, John, seemed to have a different fate. He couldn't help but ask, "Why?" But Jesus didn't give a direct answer. Instead, He essentially told Peter to mind his own business and focus on following Him. He said, "Suppose I want him to stay until I come, how does that concern you? Your business is to follow me" (John 21:22).

Now, let's break it down. Jesus wasn't being harsh; He was reminding Peter (and us) not to worry about what God has in store for others. Instead, our focus should be on following Jesus and staying committed to our own mission. Jesus simply said, "Follow me."

I know it's not easy to look around and wonder why some people have it easier or harder than us. But here's the thing: God has distinct plans for each of us, and these plans are good. They are exactly what our Heavenly Father asks of us. And guess what? He equips us with the grace we need to fulfill those plans.

The apostle Paul once said that those who compare themselves to others in terms of what God does through them demonstrate a lack of understanding and wisdom (2 Corinthians 10:12). Ultimately, seeking the praise of others shouldn't be our goal. What truly matters is seeking God's favor and recognition.

So, in light of this passage, let's reflect on our own lives. What do you think Jesus's mission is for you right now? Take a moment to consider that. And remember, while it's important to care for our brothers and sisters, our primary concern should be focusing on where God is calling us individually. We shouldn't worry too much about what He expects from others.

Yes, it's great to appreciate and learn from the blessings God brings through other people's lives, but let's keep our focus on what God specifically calls us to do. That's where our true fulfillment lies!

Now, let's get to the exciting part. At the end of the Gospel of John, the author mentions that there are countless stories about Jesus that couldn't fit into a single book. It's like trying to capture an ocean in a teacup! The author claims to have witnessed only a fraction of all the things Jesus said and did (John 21:24-25).

Here's something cool to think about. Each Bible has a blank page at the end, and that's for a reason. It's for you and me to write our own gospel! We can jot down the incidents, relationships, challenging times, and good moments in our lives where Jesus was present, active, saving us, calling us, and challenging us to become His disciples.

So, let me ask you this: Can you identify where and when your personal journey with Jesus began? Just like the author John, we don't know where our story will end. But right now, in this very moment, where is Jesus writing His Gospel in your life? How is He revealing His love, His call, and His identity to you so that others can witness it too?

Your story matters, my friend. Embrace it! And always remember to ask Jesus to guide and shape your story into something truly remarkable. Follow Him wholeheartedly, and watch how your life unfolds in ways you never thought possible!

LET US PRAY:
Heavenly Father, thank you for the gift of each person's unique story. Help us to understand that comparing ourselves to others only leads to discouragement and distraction from Your purpose for our lives.

Lord, when we feel disheartened by the successes or challenges of others, remind us to fix our eyes on Jesus and His calling for us. Give us the wisdom to focus on our own mission, rather than worrying about what You have planned for others.

May we find joy in the blessings You bring through others, while fully embracing the path You have set before us. Fill us with the grace and strength we need to fulfill Your plans.

As we reflect on the moments where You have been present in our lives, may we be inspired to write our own gospel, sharing the ways in which You have been close, active, and transformative. Help us to live our lives in such a way that others may see Your love, Your call, and Your identity through us.

Lord, guide us and shape our stories to be the best they can be. May we always follow You wholeheartedly, trusting that Your plans for us are perfect.

In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

06/06/2025

Discipleship isn’t about staying in control—it’s about surrendering our will to God's.

06/06/2025

You are not useless to God when you mess up. Jesus wants to use you, not only when you have everything together, but always...

Jesus asked a third time, “𝘚𝘪𝘮𝘰𝘯 𝘴𝘰𝘯 𝘰𝘧 𝘑𝘰𝘩𝘯, 𝘥𝘰 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘭𝘰𝘷𝘦 𝘮𝘦?” Peter was hurt because Jesus had asked him three times if He loved him. So he told Jesus, “𝘓𝘰𝘳𝘥, 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘬𝘯𝘰𝘸 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨. 𝘠𝘰𝘶 𝘬𝘯𝘰𝘸 𝘐 𝘭𝘰𝘷𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶.” Jesus replied, “𝘍𝘦𝘦𝘥 𝘮𝘺 𝘴𝘩𝘦𝘦𝘱." - John 21:17 CEV

Have you ever wondered if you can come clean with God? If you can start afresh, leaving behind all the mistakes, bad behavior, and the hurt you've caused others? Sometimes, it feels like accepting God's forgiveness is difficult. Maybe you even believe that God won't forgive you, that He'll turn you down.

But let me share a story with you, a story from today's Gospel reading, in 𝗝𝗼𝗵𝗻 𝟮𝟭:𝟭𝟱-𝟭𝟵. It's about Jesus and Peter, one of His disciples who made a lot of mistakes. Peter was the guy with the big mouth, always saying he would never deny Jesus, even when everyone else would (see Mt 26:33, Mk 14:29). But when the time came, Peter betrayed Jesus, just as Jesus had foretold.

Even after Jesus rose from the dead and appeared to His disciples, Peter found himself going back to what he did before Jesus called him. Can you imagine the overwhelming shame and loss he must have felt as he prepared to go fishing that day? Peter probably thought he was useless to God, that he had completely messed up. He might have believed that God could never use someone like him, a traitor, to spread the incredible news that Jesus had died for our sins and risen again.

But something amazing happens after breakfast. Jesus turns His attention to Peter. He asks him a question, not just once, but three times–for each of Peter's denials. He wants to hear it from Peter's own lips.

"𝘗𝘦𝘵𝘦𝘳, 𝘥𝘰 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘭𝘰𝘷𝘦 𝘔𝘦?"

Now, here's something interesting that we don't fully grasp in the English translation. In the New Testament, there are two different Greek words for "love" that are used here, and they carry different meanings.

The first word is "philia," which describes a basic human friendship, a tender love, but not a completely committed love.

The second word is "agapē," which represents an unconditional love, a love that is total and self-sacrificing.

Jesus asks Peter if he loves (agapē) Him, but Peter responds that he loves (philia) Him. This happens three times.

After denying Jesus three times, Peter realizes deep within himself that he doesn't have that unconditional love for Jesus. And in his humility, Jesus meets Peter right where he is, in his weak human love.

It's in that moment that Jesus begins to shape Peter into the "rock" he is meant to be for the Church. Now aware of his own fragility, Peter can allow Jesus to take his weak human love (philia) and transform it over time into self-giving love (agapē). Jesus does the same with us if we are humble like Peter.

In fact, Peter's love eventually becomes so characterized by agapē that he willingly goes to Rome and is crucified for the sake of Jesus Christ, just as Jesus foretold in John 21:18.

If you've read the entire Gospel of John, you'll be amazed at the beautiful description of love as Jesus returns to the place where He first called Peter and gives him a second chance.

From their first encounter to his redemption, Jesus always says to Peter, "𝙁𝙊𝙇𝙇𝙊𝙒 𝙈𝙀!"

And here's what I want you to understand: You are not useless to God when you mess up. Jesus wants to use you, not only when you have everything together, but always. You can always reconnect with Him. He won't push you away. He wants to make you clean. He wants you to follow Him—right from the beginning, even in your moments of falling, and all the way to your redemption.

Jesus is love personified! Follow Him!

𝗟𝗘𝗧 𝗨𝗦 𝗣𝗥𝗔𝗬:
Heavenly Father, thank you for the incredible love and forgiveness that you offer us, even when we feel unworthy and burdened by our mistakes. Help us to come before you with open hearts, ready to lay down our shortcomings and seek your mercy.

Lord Jesus, just as you lovingly approached Peter after his denials, we ask that you come to us in our brokenness and weakness. Teach us to humbly acknowledge our flaws and shortcomings, knowing that you can transform our limited love into a love that is sacrificial and unconditional.

Fill us with your Holy Spirit, Lord, that we may grow in our love for you and others. Grant us the courage to follow you, even when we stumble and fall. Help us to trust in your redeeming power and believe that you can use us, despite our imperfections, to spread the good news of your love and salvation.

May we always find comfort in the assurance that you are with us, ready to cleanse us, guide us, and offer us a fresh start. We surrender ourselves to you, Lord, and pray that you mold us into vessels of your love and grace.

In your precious name, Jesus, we pray. Amen.

06/06/2025

Jesus meets us in our failures not to condemn, but to restore us.

05/06/2025

Unity is not just a feeling; it’s a choice. A choice to love, to listen, to understand, and to forgive. And when we do that, we become a living testimony to God’s love in the world!

𝗢𝗻𝗲 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝗿𝘁, 𝗢𝗻𝗲 𝗠𝗶𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻: 𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝙋𝙧𝙖𝙮𝙚𝙧 𝙅𝙚𝙨𝙪𝙨 𝙎𝙖𝙞𝙙 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙔𝙤𝙪
Have you ever felt like you didn’t belong? Maybe in your family, your school, or even in church? Like no matter how active you are, something still feels off, disconnected? Or maybe you look at other Christians and think, “Why are we so divided if we believe in the same Jesus?”

Let me tell you this: You are not alone!
And more importantly, Jesus saw that coming.
That’s why—before He was arrested, beaten, and crucified—He prayed specifically for you. Yes, you.

Let’s step into a moment together—one of the most profound prayers in the Bible. John 17 is often called the “High Priestly Prayer.” In this intimate moment, Jesus is talking to the Father—not teaching, not preaching—just praying.

At the start, He prays for Himself.
Then He prays for His disciples.
But here, in 𝗝𝗼𝗵𝗻 𝟭𝟳:𝟮𝟬-𝟮𝟲, He shifts—and He prays for everyone who will believe in Him through the message His disciples spread. That includes us—you, me, every believer today. Imagine that. Before Jesus went to the cross, He had your name on His heart.

And what did He pray for?

Not for us to be rich, successful, or popular.
But for unity.
That we may be one—just like He and the Father are one.
Because that kind of unity is so powerful, the world will look at it and say, “Wow. God must be real.”

This prayer is so much more than just a wish. It’s a calling. A calling for us to be one with each other and, more importantly, one with Christ. Jesus is asking us to live out His love and to show the world the power of unity in a fractured world.

Let’s take a closer look at His prayers and see how they continue to guide and stir our hearts.

• 𝗨𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗶𝘀 𝗚𝗼𝗱’𝘀 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝗿𝘁 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗨𝘀 (𝘃𝟮𝟬–𝟮𝟭):
Jesus prays that we all may be one, just as He and the Father are one. He didn’t say, “May they all be the same.” He said, “May they be one.” That means that we, His followers or believers, would be united— just like He and the Father are one.

Now, I know that sounds easy, but let’s be real: we live in a world where it’s easy to focus on differences- whether online, in our circles, or even in the Church itself—this prayer becomes so relevant. But here’s the catch—Jesus isn't talking about uniformity, where everyone is the same, but unity in purpose. Again, unity doesn’t mean uniformity.

Think of a band or an orchestra. Every instrument is different, right? Every member has different instruments, different sounds—but when they play in sync, they create music. Likewise, you don’t have to be like the preacher, the worship leader, or the super active servant. God wants you to harmonize with others, not clone them.

He wants our differences to become strengths— when we unite in love, purpose, spirit, and mission.

• 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗚𝗹𝗼𝗿𝘆 𝗪𝗲 𝗦𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗲 (𝘃𝟮𝟮):
Jesus didn’t just pray for us to be united; He gave us His glory. What does that mean? It’s not about us being famous or powerful. Glory sounds like a heavy word. But in this, it’s about sharing in God’s goodness, presence, and mission.

Think of it like a parent passing on a legacy to their child—a trust that carries both honor and responsibility. Or imagine a relay race: Jesus ran the first lap, carrying the torch of truth and love. He passed it on to the apostles, and through apostolic succession, it continued—passed down through the Pope, cardinals, bishops, priests, and missionaries.

And now, that same light is handed to you.

You carry the light—not to shine it on yourself—but to reveal who God is. Through the way you live, love, and lead, the world sees a glimpse of the glory Jesus gave you.

• 𝗢𝘂𝗿 𝗨𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗶𝘀 𝗮 𝗪𝗶𝘁𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗹𝗱 (𝘃𝟮𝟯):
Jesus says that the world will know that God sent Him when we are united. Have you ever noticed how people are drawn to communities that radiate love? When you see a group of people who genuinely care for each other, it’s magnetic. Our unity is not just for us to enjoy; it’s meant to draw others in and show them God’s love in action.

Think about it: if you’re part of a group that is constantly arguing or fighting, would anyone want to join? But if you’re in a community that supports each other, prays together, and lifts each other up—people notice that. And that’s how the world gets a glimpse of God.

Jesus is inviting us into the Trinitarian love circle. It’s not just a relationship between God and Jesus—it’s now God in us, through Jesus. This is more than religion— it’s relationship.

Our unity is a testimony to the world of God’s love. It’s like a living advertisement of God’s grace and power. When we live in harmony, others see something they don’t see anywhere else—a love that’s bigger than anything this world offers.

• 𝗝𝗲𝘀𝘂𝘀 𝗗𝗲𝘀𝗶𝗿𝗲𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝗕𝗲 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗨𝘀 (𝘃𝟮𝟰):
Jesus isn’t just praying for us to be united here on earth—He wants us to be with Him in eternity. This part of the prayer is so personal. Jesus doesn’t want to be distant; He wants us to experience the full glory and love of God. The unity He prays for is a foretaste of heaven, where we will be fully united with Him in love and glory. That’s the hope that fuels our mission here on earth.

It’s like having your favorite celebrity or mentor wanting to spend time with you—not just to give advice, but to be with you. Jesus is saying, “I want to be with you, share life with you, and help you grow in the fullness of my love.”

• 𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗮𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗙𝗮𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿’𝘀 𝗟𝗼𝘃𝗲 (𝘃𝟮𝟱–𝟮𝟲):
Jesus ends His prayer with a promise: “𝘐 𝘮𝘢𝘥𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘍𝘢𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘬𝘯𝘰𝘸𝘯 𝘵𝘰 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘮. 𝘈𝘯𝘥 𝘐 𝘸𝘪𝘭𝘭 𝘬𝘦𝘦𝘱 𝘮𝘢𝘬𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘏𝘪𝘮 𝘬𝘯𝘰𝘸𝘯. 𝘚𝘰 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘭𝘰𝘷𝘦 𝘠𝘰𝘶 𝘩𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘔𝘦 𝘸𝘪𝘭𝘭 𝘣𝘦 𝘪𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘮.”

The more we know Christ, the more we experience the love of the Father. This knowledge isn’t just head knowledge; it’s heart knowledge that transforms us and empowers us to love others.

Think about how when you deeply know someone—like a close friend or a family member—you begin to reflect their values, their actions, even their way of thinking. In the same way, as we get to know Jesus more, we start to reflect His love and share it with others.

It’s like a mentor passing on wisdom. Jesus has revealed God’s heart to us through His life, His actions, and His love. And now He passes that mission to us: to make God known. We do this through our words, actions, and how we love others.

So, what’s the big takeaway from all of this? Jesus’ prayer isn’t just for a peaceful, happy community; it’s for a community that is so united in love that the world sees something different—a glimpse of God. We’re not just called to be Catholic Christians; we’re called to be living reflections of God’s love and unity.

If you’re feeling disconnected, discouraged, or doubting your place in your home, school, workplace, online, or even in the Church— remember this:

Jesus prayed for you!

He didn’t pray for you to be perfect.
He prayed for you to be one with others,
to carry His light,
to live in love,
and to never forget that you belong.

Let’s answer that prayer by choosing unity over division, relationships over roles, and love over pride.

Because the world doesn’t need more impressive Catholic Christians—
It needs authentic, united ones who reflect the heart of Jesus. Amen!?

𝗟𝗘𝗧 𝗨𝗦 𝗣𝗥𝗔𝗬:
Heavenly Father, we thank You for the gift of Your Son, Jesus, and for the love He has shown us. We lift up our hearts in prayer for unity in our communities—help us to come together as one, as You and the Son are one. May we reflect Your glory in all that we do and live out the mission of love You’ve entrusted to us.

Lord Jesus, we are in awe that You prayed for us, even before we were born. Help us to live out that prayer every day. Teach us to love beyond our differences, to forgive quickly, and to seek unity in our families, our ministries, and the Church. May we carry Your light in all we do, so others may see You through us.

Holy Spirit, come and fill our hearts. Break down every wall of pride, comparison, and division. Unite us in truth, in mission, and in love. Make us one, just as You are one with the Father and the Son.

We want to be living answers to Jesus’ prayer. This we ask in the name of the Triune God—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Amen.