As we observe the first Sunday of Lent, our reflections are deeply intertwined with Biblical texts of Genesis 9:8-15, Psalms 25:4-9, 1 Peter 3:18-22, and Mark 1:12-15. These passages invite us to journey inward, meditate, and act in solidarity with our communities, especially amidst the looming prospect of Charter Change in the Philippines.
GENESIS 9:8-15: A Covenant of Hope
The story of God’s covenant with Noah and all living creatures, symbolized by the rainbow, serves as a beacon of hope amidst uncertainty. In the face of pending Charter Change, which threatens the stability and integrity of our nation, this narrative reminds us of God’s unwavering promise to uphold justice and righteousness. Just as God preserved Noah and his family through the flood, so too can we trust in God’s faithfulness to guide and protect us through tumultuous times.
PSALMS 25:4-9: Seeking Divine Guidance
The psalmist’s plea for guidance and redemption resonates with our collective desire for wisdom and discernment in the midst of political upheaval. As we navigate the complexities of Charter Change, we turn to God, trusting in God’s mercy and steadfast love to lead us on the path of righteousness. Let us pray for clarity of vision and courage to stand firm in defense of our nation’s sovereignty and patrimony.
1 PETER 3:18-22: Baptism and Spiritual Renewal
Peter’s epistle speaks of baptism as a symbol of salvation and spiritual renewal. In the face of impending change, we are called to renew our commitment to justice, truth, and peace. Through the waters of baptism, we are united with Christ in His death and resurrection, empowering us to resist oppression and advocate for the common good. Let us draw strength from our baptismal identity as we strive to protect the rights and dignity of all Filipinos.
MARK 1:12-15: Temptation and Proclamation of the Kingdom
In Mark’s Gospel, we witness Jesus’ temptation in the wilderness and His proclamation of the Kingdom of God. Like Jesus, we are confronted with temptations and challenges that threatens to divert us from our mission of justice and solidarity. Yet Jesus’ resolute proclamation of the Kingdom reminds us of our calling to resist injustice and work towards a society rooted in love and compassion. Let us emulate Jesus’ courage and commitment to righteousness as we confront the deceptive allure of Charter Change.
Weaving through the Lectionary readings
In light of the impending threat of Charter Change, it is incumbent upon us as Christians to stand firm in defense of our nation’s sovereignty and patrimony. The proposed changes to the constitution, driven by self-serving interests of the ruling elite, pose a grave danger to the welfare of the Filipino people. As members of the church, we are called to expose the deception and advocate for truth, justice, and peace.
Faith communities should echo the resounding call to say NO TO CHARTER CHANGE. We stand united in our commitment to uphold the 1987 Philippine Constitution as a safeguard against tyranny and oppression. Let us raise our voices in solidarity with the toiling majority of the Philippines, affirming our collective determination to protect, guard, and defend our nation’s sovereignty and patrimony.
As we journey through the season of Lent, let us carry with us the lessons and teachings of the Scriptures, drawing inspiration from the narratives of hope, resilience, and liberation. May our reflections lead us to action, as we work tirelessly to build a society founded on the principles of truth, justice, and peace. Amen.
Gospel reflection of Rev. Homar Distajo of the United Church of Christ in the Philippines for the First Sunday of Lent, 9:8-15 Ps 25:4-5, 6-7, 8-9 1 Pt 3:18-22 Mk 1:12-15
Balik-Tanaw is a group blog of the Promotion of Church People’s Response (PCPR). The Lectionary Gospel reflection is an invitation for meditation, contemplation, and action.
