The Sinner

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Today is Holy Wednesday. It is declared half-day of work in the government units here in our province. This is to give way to employees who want to join the traditional procession of holy images, which depict the story of Jesus Christ, his pain and sufferings for the salvation of humanity. This is my new way of demonstrating my penitence. 

Ever since I was a kid, I have seen common practices that demonstrate Filipinos’ Catholic  faith, more so during Lenten season. The reading of the Passion of Christ (Pasyon or Pabasa- a verse narrative about the life and sufferings of Jesus Christ), the procession of cross and images known as “pagdukot” or abduction of Christ in the Garden of Gethsemane, the Visita Iglesia (Visitation of different churches) on Maundy Thursday, the reading of the seven (7) last words of Jesus, and the procession of images of the dead body of Christ (“libing”) or the interment on Good Friday. All these belong to the Triduum-  meaning three days of  Lenten practices that are done before Easter Sunday or the Resurrection. All these have been handed down to us by our parents. So many common practices that help strengthen our faith in God. All these fall into one common purpose -------- repentance for the forgiveness of our sins and cleansing of our soul.

I think this is the best time for me to park my pen and blink my eye for a hectic journal of my working routine. Need time to contemplate and do some serious reflection. However, my journey to the road of righteousness for soul cleansing and salvation is way too complicated. Too many distractions; too many obstacles that really test my faith in God. Despite them all, I hope I was still able to get the ride on time. Don't give up on me, oh Lord.