Lenten Reflections at School of the Word - Opus

By Resti Ma. M. Bautista

On February 20, 2026, the Lenten Reflection series at the School of the Word at Opus was launched with Fr. Filipe Vaz Pardal, FMVD as special guest preacher.  His exegesis focused on the encounter of the Rich Man with Jesus in Mark 10:17-22. Fr. Filipe pointed out the heart of this Gospel reading (cf. Mark 10:21): “Jesus looked at him, loved him and spoke to him.” He emphasized that our faith is much more than a list of dos and don’ts. Fr. Filipe also shared, “External righteousness does not satisfy the heart. Our hearts long for something more than to fulfill the law.”  

A heart-felt testimony was also given by Mel Vergel de Dios, one of the core group members of the SOW at Opus. Mel recounted his journey in and out of the corporate world and later on as an entrepreneur. He highlighted the values guiding his decision-making for himself, his wife Lia and family, as they strive to respond to God’s call to “go sell what you own and give the money to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven.”  We fervently pray for their family, that He who began a good work in them may bring it to completion on the day of Christ Jesus (cf. Philippians 1:6).

In the Gospels, the rich man goes away sad because he prefers the gift to the Giver. As we continue our Lenten journey, may we understand more deeply that we are seen and loved by God. We continue to reflect, “What occupies my heart more than Jesus?” We ask for a daily encounter with God’s merciful love and compassion as He draws us to His heart with His Word.

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Reflections for the Lenten season at the School of the Word - Opus continue every Friday (except Good Friday), 7:30PM to 9:00PM at the Chapel of the Archangels, 6F Opus, Bridgetowne Destination Estate, Quezon City.  Come and see!