On this day, July 28, 2025, our readings present us with a fascinating interplay of Growth, Gold, and God , themes that resonate deeply with...
On this day, July 28, 2025, our readings present us with a fascinating interplay of Growth, Gold, and God, themes that resonate deeply with the Filipino experience.
In our First Reading, we see the Israelites, after witnessing God's mighty acts, quickly turn to idolatry, creating a golden calf. They sought something tangible, something they could see and touch, a quick fix for their anxieties when Moses was away. This reminds us, in the Philippines, of the allure of instant gratification, or the temptation to put our trust in material wealth—our "gold"—over the unseen but ever-present hand of God. We are a people with big dreams, for our families, for our nation, and sometimes we might be tempted to cut corners or sacrifice our values for quick returns, forgetting that true and lasting growth comes from a solid foundation in God.
The Gospel, however, offers a powerful counter-narrative to this instant gratification. Jesus speaks of the Kingdom of Heaven being like a mustard seed, the smallest of seeds, yet capable of immense growth into a large tree. He also speaks of yeast, a tiny amount that can leaven a whole batch of dough. This is the story of many Filipinos. We start small, often with very little "gold" in our pockets, but with immense faith and sipag (diligence). Think of the small sari-sari store that grows into a thriving business, or the single overseas worker whose remittances help a whole family umangat (rise up). This gradual, humble growth is powered not by material riches alone, but by a tenacious spirit and a deep belief in the providence of God.
For us Filipinos, especially in Metro Manila, where life can be fast-paced and material desires can be overwhelming, it's a call to re-evaluate our priorities. Are we chasing fleeting "gold" or investing in the real growth that comes from a life rooted in God? True progress, for an individual and for our nation, begins with a heart that seeks God's kingdom first. Like the tiny mustard seed, even our smallest acts of faith, kindness, and perseverance, when nurtured by God's grace, can bring about incredible transformation and bear abundant fruit for our communities. May we choose God and genuine growth over the deceptive glitter of "gold."
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