Role Ready

Life on earth is a drama in itself where individuals have particular roles to play in relation to the group one belongs to, and as part of the larger plan designed by the Divine Playwriter–God the Creator. Each creature is born into a social group, starting with the family, including the Son of God Himself, Jesus, in His birth in a stable in Bethlehem. Belonging to a family, community, society and unique culture indicates that each one has a role to play for the good of the whole. “No man is an island” aptly describes the role one plays along with others. No one can say that he/she has nothing to do with the others. The reality of interdependence and mutual support begins at the moment of conception wherein the fetus cannot survive outside the mother’s womb.

Nature itself prepares the mother’s womb and breasts for the suckling. The baby gradually grows into various stages of life–childhood, adolescence, adulthood, senility, learning to adapt to roles and rules set by the social milieu he belongs to, and choose the proper goals and modes of behavior, prioritizing the moral and Church laws that spell the destiny of life in eternity.

“Our role is to use our time on earth wisely within the fair and just society we belong to, and in religion, the Catholic Church.”

Whether as leaders or members, we can contribute whatever we can in our own way. We have to lift, not pull down, the society. We must know where we are going and how to get there, always remembering that we are part of the society and not going solo. If you think you know better, it is important that you listen, attend meetings and events, and discuss ways to improve.

John the Baptist was fully aware of his role as herald of the promised Messiah, to “make straight the way of the Lord” (Jn. 1: 23) and “declare this is the Chosen One of God” (Jn. 1:34). He was focused on his mission to preach repentance and conversion of heart in order to prepare for Jesus’ coming. To his disciples he said: “I am not the Christ but I have been sent before him…My joy is now full. It is necessary that He increase but that I decrease. The One sent by God speaks God’s words and gives the Spirit without measure. For the Father loves the Son and has entrusted everything into his hands. Whoever believes in the Son lives with eternal life…Whoever does receive his testimony acknowledges the truthfulness of God” (Jn. 3:28-36). May our hearts and wills be ‘role ready’ to become humble servants of the Prince of Peace born in our hearts to serve the poor and needy of society.