What shall I do, Lord?

Conversion of St. Paul, apostle
204th Years of OMI foundation anniversary
Chinese New Year (Metal Rat)
Mark 16: 15-18
January 25, 2020

The world as we know it today has changed drastically. We have things now that were never imagined before. People have access to information as fast as the blink of a eye. Even travels which was so expensive and impossible before are now becoming ordinary. Everything seems so fast right now. And so we think.

But what have we become amidst these fast changing society? Have we become better compared before? Are the human hearts become gentler compared in years past? Or the world is getting away from what it supposed to be. What about our mission, as oblates, as individuals?

St. Paul has been an unbeliever. For years, his heart was full or anger, cruelty, pain and hatred. For years, he survived being like that. But deep inside, I know he felt something is missing. And finally, God woke him up from sleep. God woke him up from unbeliefs, ideas that were dragging him out from seing God.

Today is the 204th Omi foundation anniversary. OMIs around the world is one in celebrating this momentous event as we remember the years that the oblates in different countries and places work together in the banner of St. Eugene de Mazenod in preaching the gospel to the poor.

But this celebration poses some challenges to the OMIs as we move forward in doing mission. The concerns are vast. The people who are in need of the good news are huge. We will always have our plans and strategies. For years, the OMI have contributed countless efforts to thousands and millions of people all over the world. But that will never be enough. We know we can only do little.

Like Paul, we have to go down on our horses. And when we are on the ground, let us close our eyes from our accustomed light or sight so that we may find the light and sight that only God can offer.

Oblates need God and people. We need God to see. And we need people to help us see as well, just like what Ananias did to Paul.

The chinese calls this year the metal rat year. The first in the rotation of the 12 Zodiac signs, this year is the year of renewal. Rats are characterized as inquisitive and resourceful.

This is so timely to reflect on what more can we give and do to others. Yes, the world may be so fast but we can always keep the pace. Our mission is never outdated. Yes, we can never be perfect in pur endeavors but as long as we have God as our guide, we will never lose sight of what is more essential in today's way of preaching the gospel to the poor.

God bless!

Comments

Destiny

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Minutes of Hope

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