“… aming tulay sa inyong bugtong na anak na si Hesus.”
Prior to the 8th Novena Mass presided by Rev. Fr. Mike Pacag, Bro. Rey Balcos shared his thoughts on this day’s theme: Maria, Bilang Tulay Patungo kay Hesus. Mary, as our mediatrix to her son calls us to be a good disciples of Jesus.
One misconception about discipleship is that we can only be disciples of Christ through religious life like entering a priesthood or single-blessedness but the truth is, everyone can be a disciple and follow God. But how does an ordinary person can be a disciple of Christ? We can be a disciple by being a good laity, servant, or a good catholic parent, son, or daughter. Here are things to consider on being a disciple of Christ:
- Follow Him wholeheartedly
- No conditions are allowed
- Face the challenges of discipleship
- Stop being indecisive
- Be faithful to our Lord until the end
In his homily, Rev. Fr. Mike Pacag shared his journey on entering priesthood. Many were shocked and lots of speculations saying he was busted or left by a girl is probably the reason why he wanted to become a priest. But in fact, he really wants to become a priest. “Masarap ang buhay pagpapari at hindi ko ipagpapalit ang buhay pagpapari.” he said.
He pursued priesthood even though his father doesn’t want him to be a priest, however, responding to the call of Christ is not easy and it took him 14 years to think and reflect. In the seminary, he asked himself, “Bakit nga ba ako magpapari? Kaya ko bang balikatin ang pagsubok na nakaatang sa pagpapari?” This shows that being a disciple of Christ requires more consideration. Everything must be secondary including our family when we choose to follow Jesus and when we are called to be a disciple of Christ, no one should hinder us in following Him.
As we are coming closer to the Feast Day of Our Lady of Aranzazu, we are called to be a disciple of Christ. The gospel invites us to start our own journey to Jerusalem and finish it whatever it may cost because through discipleship, we help to build the kingdom of God.
Lester de Castro
Writer, Website Team - Media Ministry
To those who know him, no words are required. To those who do not, no words will suffice. Lester R. de Castro is a “scholar ng bayan” at Polytechnic University of the Philippines taking up Accountancy, Business, and Management. Lester belongs to his batches’ "Cream of the Crop" dominating to a remarkable vision of the future. Currently, as a website writer of DSPNSDA’s Media and Public Information Ministry, the talents and skills he received from the Almighty above are being used and shared not only for his own good but for the good of others as well. He believes that in life, God must be the center who guides us towards the right path.
