Posted by The WORD in other words (2009) by Fr Jerry Orbos SVD – Christ the King Seminary, Quezon City
Saturday 20th Week in Ordinary Time
Question: How do you say “mapakumbabang babae” (lowly woman) in Japanese?
Answer: Hamburger! (Humble girl!)
The greatest and the most persistent temptation of any disciple is to think of oneself as great, as greater than others, and subconsciously, even think of oneself as greater than the Master.
Some two years ago, I met Fr. Desmond, a Canadian priest in his 70s who exuded so much joy, simplicity, and zeal in his person and in his ministry. He was such a humble, warm, and welcoming person. He had no air, no condescension, no hang-ups. He was such a free soul! I was so impressed by this grateful, joyful, septuagenarian, and kept wondering what his “secret” was. I found out later what that ‘secret’ was. On his refrigerator was a sign that read: “To all guests, welcome! There are only two rules in this house: 1) There is a God; 2) You’re not Him!
Yes, if only we remember these two basic rules in life, especially in our ministry! Let us stop playing God. Let us stop controlling, let us stop manipulating, and let us stop hurting people. All these we can do if we have humility.
Today, look at yourself in the mirror and say: Just who do you think you are?
Allow me to share with you my ordination prayer which I made some 28 years ago: You have called me Oh Lord, not so much because of me, but in spite of me; not so much to become a somebody, but to be a someone to you and to your people; keep me ever in your love, I humbly pray. Amen.
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