A Pope of the People For the People in the Philippines

A Pope of the People FOR the People in the Philippines

  

   The Bible narrates of how Jesus Christ mingled with people of low moral standards and ill repute such as tax collectors and other outcasts. When given an inquiry as to why He was gracing such individuals with His presence, he replied, “People who are well do not need a doctor, but only those who are sick.” (1) This is one quality of the Lord which characterizes His fairness and compassion to mankind; and also one that could have possibly earned him the disfavour of influential personalities in the community.

    Come January 15, 2015; Pope Francis shall grace the Philippine people with his divine presence. In his itinerary is a sojourn to the province of Leyte; it’s storm-ravaged city of Tacloban whose residents still suffer the devastation brought by the super typhoon “Yolanda”, during the latter part of  2013. This would be a gesture of compassion for the unfortunate souls; with a most probable intention of assuring them of the Lord’s never-ending love and mercy.

    In relation to this event are the circumstantial criticisms aired against the attitude and behaviour of political figures; enhancing their images and reputations via their interactions with the Vicar of Christ, for the benefit of their social stature and career.

     Conceptualize then, a situation where the Pope is found amidst denizens of the slum and plebeian areas of the country; garbed in his white frock and seated at a table with drunkards; cash and cards scattered on its surface amidst shot glasses filled with cheap gin; with his companions discussing clandestine acts of infidelity. A pretentious community official approaches him and asks the reason for his demeanour. The Vatican head-of-state replies in Italian-accented Filipino: “Alin ang tinutuwid: ang tuwid o ang baluktot?” (Which needs to be straightened: the straight or the crooked?)

     Political officials usually fall under the second category; but they would not want to delve into such locations where the masses may either chide them; or deliver a flood of entreaties for them to placate. With that kind of flawed philosophy; they deserve to be deemed unworthy to be in the presence of a blessed and divine icon. And with all their ill-gotten wealth and affluence gained by ignoble means; they are already well-off and should leave the Lord’s graces to be bequeathed to those who need them the most.

Reference:

      -Millennium Good News Bible, Special Year 2000 Edition   

(           Matthew 9: 12-13