In Today’s Mass readings, we may notice that the theme is about the kingdom, but in the Gospel, we hear about the story of our Lord’s Crucifixion. It’s kind of ironic, right? We celebrate the glorious kingship of Jesus, but our Gospel speaks about His suffering on the Cross. Crucifixion is not about the moment of defeat, but His enthronement.

Our Catechism says that Jesus is already present in the Church, but His Kingdom isn’t fully complete yet. Evil still affects the world, even though Christ has already won the final victory. Until God renews creation and brings perfect justice, the Church lives in an imperfect world and waits with hope (cf CCC 671).

Our Lord’s first coming is full of mercy, as we may see in the moment of the Crucifixion. On his second coming, justice will prevail. So that is why Jesus teaches us to love one another (John 13:34), and this is what God requires us— only to do the right and to love goodness, and to walk humbly with Him (Micah 6:8; cf Matthew 23:23).

The philosopher Lucius Annaeus Seneca said, “A kingdom founded on injustice never lasts.” And throughout our history, many people have wanted to destroy the Church, the one founded by Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, but no matter what they have done, their plans failed, and that’s because the Church was built in His divine justice and that justice prevails until the end of time.

Viva Cristo Rey! Mabuhay ang Kristong Hari!

~ Cyrille Costenoble

THE GOD WHO SEES MY SILENT STRUGGLES

There are moments in my life especially in service, exhaustion, and personal struggles when I find myself quietly whispering the same simple prayer: “Lord, remember me.”

There are days when I give my best in ministry, work, and family, yet it still feels like I’m falling short. I get tired emotionally, spiritually, and physically, but I can’t always express it out loud. I feel like the repentant thief—worn out, limited, hurting yet still choosing to look to Jesus.

There are times when I feel unworthy: weary from serving, burdened by questions, and carrying struggles I cannot share. Still, I cling to God. I hope He sees my small acts of love, my hidden sacrifices, my quiet prayers, and the pain I cannot put into words.

This verse reminds me that life doesn’t need to be perfect for God to love me. My service doesn’t need to be flawless for Him to listen. My prayers don’t need to be loud for Him to hear. And on days when my mental health feels fragile, when thoughts are heavy and my heart feels overwhelmed. I believe God draws even closer. He understands the silent battles, the emotional fatigue, the worries I carry alone.

Sometimes, all I can offer is a simple, tired whisper: “Lord, remember me.”

And the beautiful truth is this: Jesus doesn’t just remember—He responds. My sincerity is enough. My tired faith is enough. My desire to keep going is enough. This assurance strengthens me with “Paradise moments” —peace, clarity, and grace in the right time. And with that, I continue—one prayer, one breath, one day at a time.

~ Fred

PRAYERTO START THE WEEK

Lord Jesus, thank You for loving me even when I mess up, just like You showed mercy to the thief. Help me to turn to You and trust You every day. Keep me close to You and let Your grace shape
how I live. Amen.