Matthew 18, 1-5.10

Let us all remember that we are in the Holy Presence of God.
In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Gospel: Matthew 18, 1-5.10
Pilate said to Jesus, “Are you the King of the Jews?”
Jesus answered, “Do you say this on your own or have others told you about me?”
Pilate answered, “I am not a Jew, am I? Your own nation and the chief priests handed you over to me. What have you done?”
Jesus answered, “My kingdom does not belong to this world. If my kingdom did belong to this world, my attendants (would) be fighting to keep me from being handed over to the Jews. But as it is, my kingdom is not here.”
So Pilate said to him, “Then you are a king?”
Jesus answered, “You say I am a king. For this I was born and for this I came into the world, to testify to the truth. Everyone who belongs to the truth listens to my voice.”

Reflection
In this gospel, there are two types of king – a king who rules the country for political reasons, and a king who sincerely leads the people in goodness. We tend to be like Pilate, someone who seeks worldly things, and tends to judge people by their status and what others think of them. In today’s generation, many leaders are being blinded by their power, ruling the world without thinking about the welfare of others. However, God sent Jesus to be a perfect model for us, human beings. Jesus tells us to be like Him, a King full of compassion, truth, and love and aims to rule the people’s heart not by desiring material things.

Lasallian Guiding Principle
LGP states that, “…the spirit of faith is a spirit that allows one to constantly desire to exhibit manners that are inspiring…” Being an inspiration to the society is a big responsibility which requires sincerity and utmost care for the welfare of the people. In relation to the gospel, God gave His one and only Son, Jesus, to be an example, an inspiration, to us people who are lost in this chaotic world. Jesus, despite being tempted numerous times by evil, never surrendered and stayed faithful to the Father; thus, a great inspiration to us, human beings, who are also being tempted by evil forces in our everyday lives. As Lasallians, with the spirit of faith in our souls and our hearts, we are continuously reminded to be like Jesus – to do what is good and to inspire others to do what is right

Prayer
Oh, dear God, You are almighty and all powerful. We praise your Holy name. Thank you for your forgiveness that we have in Christ. We know that we are not worthy of Your unfailing love. You suffered and crucified, sacrificed Yourself and died on the cross because of our sins. Thank You Jesus. No one can replace that kind of love You gave. We thank You for the strength, guidance, love, and wisdom that You give each and every day. We know that we are not worthy to receive all Your blessings, thank you so much. Lord, we ask for Your help and strength for us to turn away from the future temptations and sins. Teach us to be an inspiration to others, to have patience in doing something, to love our brothers and sisters just how much You love us. Guide us along the way as we take the path of righteousness by spreading Your goodness and love to the others. Help us to not be tempted to the worldly things. Please help the people who are struggling and blinded by their power. May they still remember that You are the King of kings and Lord of lords. We know that in the end, still Your plans and purpose will prevail. We fully entrust ourselves to You Lord God. May Your will be done. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Our Lady of the Star, pray for us.
St. John Baptist de la Salle, pray for us.
St. Miguel Febres Cordero, pray for us.
Live Jesus in our hearts, forever!
In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Value: Spirit of Faith (Nurturing Faith)
Culture Theme: We actively express our faith through our activities
Productivity Theme: Sharing the good news
ICV WEEK 3: We constantly desire to exhibit manners that are inspiring.

Sources
Gospel from https://dailygospel.org/AM/gospel/2018-11- 25
Guiding Principles of the Philippine Lasallian Family
DLRAP Themes from DLSMHSI Lasallian Values and Culture – Productivity Manifestations –
Who is a Lasallian?

Prepared by: Jeymeeh Arrianne A. Antonio, Erjel J. Malabanan, Francheska R. Vergara – MLS 1-3
through the DLSMHSI Lasallian Mission and Linkages, Lasallian Formation and Social Action

Our Daily Lasallian Reflection and Prayer is DLSMHSI gift to the Lasallian family for the 2019 Celebration of the Year of Vocation and Tercentenary celebration of the death of our founder SJBDLS.