"We are a community of disciples inspired by the Holy Spirit to be living witnesses for transformation in Christ to bring about a world of justice, human development and true peace."
Reflection for August 2025 (Liturgical Year - Cycle C, Year I)
Community Word: Living a life for God leads us to store up heavenly treasures.
Order: “If you were raised with Christ, seek what is above…not of what is on earth.” ~Col 3:1-2~
Reflection
In Colossians 3:1-2, St. Paul exhorts us, “Seek what is above…not what is on earth.” This verse reminds us that heaven is our eternal destination. We were created in God's image and likeness, with the purpose of knowing, loving, and serving Him. This is God’s deepest desire for us. Our life on earth is a sacred journey, a pilgrimage of hope leading us toward our eternal home with God.
Yet, the world presents many distractions that hinder our pursuit of holiness – attachments to material things, distorted priorities, and selfish pursuits. Jesus teaches us, “Seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you” (Mt 6:33). We are reminded that everything we possess in this life is temporary. What truly matters are the eternal treasures we store in heaven when we live in faithful obedience to God and listen attentively to the voice of Jesus. As our Community Word affirms: Living a life for God leads us to store up heavenly treasures. God must be at the center of all we do; He is our highest goal, calling us to holiness and perfection in Him.
Here is how each Sunday’s themes in August guide us toward this heavenly pursuit:
18th Sunday in Ordinary Time
Theme: We store up heavenly treasures when we guard against idolatry and worldly attachments.
We live in a world filled with temptations that can easily lead us astray. If we are not vigilant, we may fall into sin – “immorality, passion, evil desires, and greed” (Col 3:5). These become modern-day idols that take the place of God in our hearts. Jesus warns against such indulgence and calls us to be renewed in mind and spirit. To “put on the new self” (Col 3:10b) is to commit to a life pleasing to God. And when we do, we hold on to the promise: “When Christ your life appears, then you too will appear with him in glory” (Col 3:4).
19th Sunday in Ordinary Time
Theme: We store up heavenly treasures when we are always vigilant and faithful stewards of Christ.
Since we do not know when the Lord will return, we are called to “stay awake and be ready.” Avoiding complacency and lukewarm faith, we must use our time wisely and live with purpose. God has gifted us with time, talent, and treasure to be used for His kingdom. As faithful stewards, we must be ready to give an account of our lives. Jesus encourages us with these words: “Do not be afraid any longer…for your Father is pleased to give you the kingdom” (Lk 12:32).
20th Sunday in Ordinary Time
Theme: We store up heavenly treasures when we have courage to avoid sin and embrace the righteousness of Christ.
Hebrews 12:2 exhorts us to “keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, the leader and perfecter of faith.” Sin weighs us down, but Jesus’ obedience and sacrifice have won us forgiveness and renewed life. He invites us to turn away from pride and self-righteousness and embrace a life of humility and trust. As we share in His sufferings, we also share in His righteousness. The Psalmist proclaims, “The Lord heard my cry…He made firm my steps” (Ps 40:3a, 3c), assuring us of God’s faithfulness in our trials.
21st Sunday in Ordinary Time
Theme: We store up heavenly treasures when we accept our trials as the Lord’s loving discipline.
Scripture tells us, “Do not disdain the discipline of the Lord…for whom the Lord loves, he disciplines” (Heb 12:5-6). The journey to heaven is not without trials and suffering. These are not signs of abandonment but of God’s loving correction, leading us to holiness. Christ is our strength in times of weakness, and His grace restores us when we fall. “I am the way, the truth, and the life,” Jesus declares, “no one comes to the Father except through me” (Jn 14:6). As we endure, we trust that “all discipline…brings the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who are trained by it” (Heb 12:11).
22nd Sunday in Ordinary Time
Theme: We store up heavenly treasures when we remain humble in our ways and are mindful of the last, the least, and the lost.
Humility is the foundation of all virtues. A humble heart acknowledges its dependence on God and recognizes the value of others above oneself. It opens the door to compassion, fairness, and true service. Jesus assures us that a humble life brings God’s favor: “Humble yourself the more…and you will find favor with God” (Sir 3:18). In humility, we entrust everything to the Lord and live simply, joyfully, and generously.
Prayer
Loving Father, to know, love, and serve You is far greater than anything this world can offer. Grant me the grace to turn away from false idols and worldly attachments that lead to emptiness. Fill me instead with the joy of Your presence. Empty my hands of vain pursuits, that I may make room for You in my life. Teach me to serve with compassion and to embrace Your loving discipline. Strengthen my resolve to persevere in faith until I reach the treasures You have promised in eternal life with You. Amen.
Directions
1. Share your time, talent & treasure for worthy causes and outreaches.
2. Allow God's word to be rooted in your heart to strengthen you.
3. Offer your prayers to the Blessed Mother and seek for her maternal intercession.
4. Pray for a spirit-filled 2nd Philippine Singles Inter-District Conference in September.
Sunday Readings (Cycle C - Year I)
August 3 2025 – Eccl1:2; 2:21-23/ Ps 90:3-4, 5-6, 12-13, 14, 17/ Col 3:1-5, 9-11/ Lk 12:13-21
August 10 2025 – Wis 18:6-9/ Ps 33:1, 12, 18-19, 20-22/ Heb 11:1-2, 8-19/ Lk 12:32-48
August 17 2025 – Jer 38:4-6, 8-10/ Ps 40:2, 3, 4, 18/ Heb 12:1-4/ Lk 12:49-53
August 24 2025 – Isa 66:18-21/ Ps 117:1, 2/ Heb 12:5-7, 11-13/ Lk 13:22-30
August 31 2025 – Sir 3:17-18, 21, 29-30/ Ps 68:4-5, 6-7, 10-11/ Heb 12:18-19, 22-24A/ Lk 14:1, 7-14
Monthly: Word, Order, Prophesies and Directions (As provided by bldworld.org)