Daily Reflections

July 19, 2011
“Ka mag-anak, Incorporated”

When reports came that Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III was most likely the winner in the Philippines’ 2010 presidential elections, an issue began to circulate: “To what extent will his relatives influence the running of state and economic affairs?” Many Filipinos believe that the Aquinos and the Cojuangcos, collectively referred to by many as “Kamag-anak, Inc.,” benefitted materially during the presidency of Corazon Aquino, Noynoy’s mother. Though the veracity or extent of this impression was never objectively investigated, a number voiced apprehensions that the same could happen with a Noynoy presidency.
In the Gospel, we read that even Jesus had to level with issues regarding the interference of His relatives in His work. It is but human — and Jesus participated this — that family members express and show concern for a family member, not only in matters that are personal. Our families played a great part in our growing up, in our education, in our aspirations, in our discernment of careers and life orientations, and even in the choice of life partners. In a way, we are who we are also because of the contribution of our families of origin.
A very important lesson from Jesus’ story, however, is this: Jesus knew at what point He had to stand up for Himself. He knew He had a mission to accomplish — one that makes Him accountable to the Heavenly Father. He knew that the time for this mission was limited. Hence, for Him, His family members, including the Blessed Mother, should help Him to be faithful to His God-given task and appointment. And the Gospel indicates that Mary was truly Jesus’ first disciple. She was there for the first miracle of Jesus at Cana. She was there when Jesus finally brought His mission to completion at the Cross of Calvary. Mary was one with Jesus in His lifelong faithfulness to the will of the Father. Fr. Domie Guzman, SSP

Reflection Question:
Sit down and think about the ways your family showed you great support in your life decisions. Thank God for the great gift of a supportive family. Outline concrete ways to acknowledge your family’s great support for you and your life mission.

Thank You, Lord, for the gift of a supportive family.

St. Macrina the Younger, pray for us.