Click "Read More" for a Personal Reflection on the Sermon by Pheng Flaminiano



That we should look outward and not inward in order to unlock humility in us is often sung but seldom resounding in our lives. It is not a new idea and in fact is a biblical truth – therefore this reminder should make us take stock of how we have been trying to exercise our faith as a family of God.

On my part, I must confess that although I have no great problems in reaching out to people, lately I have been lacking the drive to do so. This is mainly because I do not expect the encounter to be any different – the “Kumusta?” begets the “Heto, ok lang” response, which is not so encouraging. I am sure that not all people are so guarded, or even if they were, there must be some reason. They may be truly uncomfortable in shedding light into even just one corner of their lives, because of some past experiences. On the other hand, they may not have seen the need to display humility through their openness, because they are still held back by pride and ambition. Indeed, how can someone be open to another person in order to let the gospel work in his or her life, if he or she is unable to shed the natural trait of self-centredness and goal of self-sufficiency?

The biblical perspective of humility turns the tables around by teaching us to consider others first and setting our own interests aside. This is truly character-moulding, as in our current society, people have second thoughts about being too much involved in others’ lives, as it is a reality that sacrifices may have to be made in raising others up first before ourselves. However, what excites me is that when others see God’s providence in their lives through brethren who are genuinely putting others’ needs first before their own, their strength will be renewed and hope will flourish in their hearts that God will see them through their circumstances. And in time, these people will show the same attitude of humility to others who are in need.

Thus, humility in the definition of Philippians 2:1-4 has given me a new motivation to be persistent in seeking out others’ interests, because I believe that this triggers an infectious chain reaction cultivating unity within our groups and affecting those outside. Through a continuous and real concern for each other, we will in time bear the fruits of unity and fortitude which are very much needed in the face of life’s challenges. Every day is a new opportunity to put others’ interests first before my own.