SpiritofthePreacher

My daily reflection

I am humbled by Luis Valle, a truly humble man who graciously opened his home to me during my stay in Live Oak and Gridley, California. He has lived alone since his beloved wife passed away from a brain tumor a year and a half ago. Their adult children have grown and are now making their way in the world.

Luis lives simply in a modest two-bedroom home in a quiet neighborhood. Two faithful dogs keep watch outside, guarding the home that has undoubtedly known both great joy and deep sorrow. Yet what struck me most was not the house itself, but the generous heart that lives within it.

With quiet kindness, Luis prepared a meal for me, taking thoughtful care for my well-being. He told me that it was an honor to welcome me into his home. But the truth is quite the opposite. I am the one who has been honored.

In Luis, I encountered the quiet dignity of a disciple who lives the Gospel without fanfare. His humble hospitality reminded me that Christ so often comes to us, not through extraordinary displays of greatness, but through ordinary acts of love freely given. Today I sleep in his home, grateful—not simply for a meal or a place to stay, but for the witness of a faithful man whose life reflects the gentle presence of God.

Flag Day is celebrated on June 14. It commemorates the adoption of the flag of the United States on June 14, 1777, by resolution of the Second Continental Congress.

God Bless America and all those who serve to protect our freedom.

Today marks 30 years since my ordination to the priesthood. Here is a picture from the Mass at St. Dominic's Church in San Francisco, where I was ordained by the Most Rev. Bishop Carlos Sevilla, S.J., on June 1, 1996.

I’m grateful for every step of the journey—filled with surprises, challenges, and a whole lot of grace. I never imagined all the places this vocation would take me or the people I’d be blessed to walk with along the way.

Thank you to everyone who’s been part of this path—your prayers, support, and friendship mean more than you know!

St. Thomas Aquinas says, “True friendship is that of the good/virtuous, who desire the other’s well-being for their own sake, not for personal gain.” I’m grateful for the visit of the Martinez family who have been good friends of mine for many years. I encourage you to celebrate your friends and tell them how they help make life worth living.