In today's reading, we encounter powerful themes that resonate deeply with the Filipino spirit. The First Reading from Leviticus speaks ...
In today's reading, we encounter powerful themes that resonate deeply with the Filipino spirit. The First Reading from Leviticus speaks of sacred festivals, celebrating harvests and God's covenant with His people, reminding us of gratitude and communal gathering. The Gospel from Matthew shows Jesus, the "carpenter's son," being rejected in His own hometown due to familiarity and a lack of faith, highlighting how sometimes honor is hard-won in one's own land. And on this day, we also commemorate Saint Alphonsus Maria de Liguori, a Doctor of the Church known for his pastoral care, prolific writings on moral theology, and dedication to guiding souls.
From these readings and the life of Saint Alphonsus, let us reflect on three words, all starting with the letter 'F', that deeply connect to the Filipino context: Faith, Family, and Festivity.
Faith is the bedrock of the Filipino people. Despite countless challenges—natural disasters, economic hardships, and social inequalities—Filipinos hold fast to their unwavering belief in a loving God. Like the people in Jesus' hometown who struggled to see beyond His humble beginnings, there are moments when our faith is tested, perhaps when we feel unseen or unappreciated in our own endeavors, even by those closest to us. Yet, it is this resilient faith, much like the steadfastness of Saint Alphonsus in his tireless work, that allows Filipinos to rise above adversity, finding strength and hope in prayer and devotion.
Secondly, Family is the core of Filipino society, a sacred unit that defines identity and provides unwavering support. The Gospel reminds us of the profound impact of our origins and the familiar ties that can sometimes lead to underestimation. For Filipinos, family extends beyond blood, encompassing communities, neighborhoods, and even fellow overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) who create a family away from home. This strong sense of kinship, both a source of strength and sometimes challenge, mirrors the close-knit communities that gather for the ancient feasts described in Leviticus.
Lastly, Festivity is an intrinsic part of Filipino life, often intertwined with expressions of faith and family. The festivals in Leviticus celebrated God's blessings and deliverance. Similarly, the countless fiestas, town patron saint celebrations, and even simple family gatherings in the Philippines are not just about merrymaking, but profound expressions of gratitude, community spirit, and a vibrant, hopeful outlook on life. Despite difficulties, Filipinos find reasons to celebrate, to gather, to share what little they have, reflecting a deep-seated appreciation for life’s simple joys and God’s abundant grace.
In the current context, Filipinos continue to navigate complex socio-economic landscapes, often through the strength drawn from their faith, the solidarity of their families, and the communal joy found in their festivities. Like Saint Alphonsus who tirelessly ministered to souls, Filipinos are called to deepen their faith, cherish their families, and infuse every aspect of their lives, even the challenges, with the festive spirit of gratitude and hope, knowing that through these, God’s miracles continue to unfold.
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