Graduation

Moments in Philippine Daily Inquirer by Fr Jerry Orbos SVD

It’s graduation time again—that time of the year when students are given recognition for their hard work and efforts. It is also that time of the year when some students are confronted with the fact that they did not work hard enough. So it will be, too, at the final graduation in heaven. Some of us will pass, and some of us will fail.

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There is a final reckoning, a final accounting. If life on earth is often unjust and unfair, we are assured that it will not be so in the final judgment. Having accepted that, we should also not forget that God is just, but He is also merciful and compassionate, and His love is more than what we can imagine and grasp.

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As a country and as a nation, will we ever graduate from corruption, or at least be freed from selfish personalities and politicians? Will we someday soon be freed of the “commissioning mentality” that besets so many of our government services and transactions?

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Well, elections will be held next year (sic next month). But let us not count so much on the elections. We have long hoped that something or someone better will come. There must be a better way to politics and government. Beyond personalities, let us open ourselves to change and new ways of doing things. Let us continue to pray for guidance and strength. Yes, may we all graduate from our selfishness and become obedient and hopeful servants.

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Think about this, dear graduates:

“It takes courage to grow up and become who you really are.” (e. e. cummings)

“I must work for God’s eyes only, seeking to be a blessing rather than to gain a blessing for myself.”

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A moment with the Lord:

Lord, please help me to graduate from a selfish life to a life that is meaningful and free. Amen.

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