7-8 June's Sermon @ QOP

preaching was done by Fr. Ambrose Vaz
as usual, it was both spiritual and enlightening.
i'm glad i attended mass at QOP that evening.

He spoke of God's restorative mercy and love.
Our God is not a God of destruction, but of forgiveness and mercy.
throughout the bible, we note that God has been patient, despite being tempted by the devil for 40 days in the desert.
in the Gospel it was mentioned that God dined and fellowshiped with tax collectors and sinful men - it is the sick who needs to see the doctor, not those who are well.

God is divine. we must remember to call on him in times when we need healing & restoration. we need constant guidance to do the right thing and be on the right path.
self-righteousness will not get us anywhere.
how tough must we be to fight against our own human nature? to overcome our own fears?
when do you know you've had enough?
when will you learn to give up and let go?

putting the needs and welfare of someone before yourself - an act of charity and love - is it so difficult?
it is challenging, that i know.
but surely, it is not impossible.

how does one be wise and yet not be emotional about things?
how does one manage yourself and self-convince?
there is a purpose and plan in everything.
if only we are patient enough to wait on the Lord.
trusting that He will make our paths straight.
how does one surrender to the will of God, just like how Abraham did - the willingness to sacrifice his only son Isaac, when God decreed?

our faith is like a seed that needs to be planted in good soil, in order for it to grow.
Your will be done, not mine.