Perspectives...

A certain event witnessed by many people would be seen from different angles. Even news reporters, making an account of an event would have some differences in their stories. The Gospel writers were witnesses to the same Jesus-event, and yet, they had some differences in the details of their accounts. Even in the book of the Acts of the Apostles, the same writer making an account of the same event of the conversion of St. Paul on the road to Damascus (three accounts), gave different details. The substantial facts were however present. This is because each would see the event from their own perspectives. The vantage point and the condition of the reporter matter a lot in the construction of the story.

There is the story of three masons working in the construction of a church. The three were asked how they see their work? The first said that he was earning for his family. The second said that he was mixing cement. The third said that he was building a church. The first sees his work as money for his daily needs. The second sees it as work in which he is using his skill and strength. The third sees it as mission. Three people having the same work but seeing their work differently.

I remember when we were having our fund raising for our new church. There were a lot of donors. It would be good to know how they see their donations in relation to the church. What as their purpose n donating. One time, in our donation room, I chanced upon two ladies giving their donations. I saw that they were simple people. I learned that they were working as house helps in  one of the houses in the village. Interviewing them, I learned that they were donating a relatively big amount (500 pesos) per month! I asked them why they were doing it? I said that the amount is very substantial compared to how much they earn. They said that the amount is really very small compared to what it would accomplish They saw their donation not a loss ('kawalan") but as an opportunity to be part of the church's apostolate and salvific work "Father, I am consoled and excited by the fact that my small contribution would be a part in the construction of the church and therefore will make me a part of every Baptism, Marriage, Confirmation, Eucharist, reconciliation and other activities which would lead to the salvation of many. Just the thought of being a part of every ministry of this church is enough to make me make this sacrifice!" I was in awe hearing their answer. What a perspective! With due respect to others who donated with other noble purposes, this tops them all! Needless to say, I was moved by their perspective. I just hoped all who donated in the construction of our church would own or graduate to this excellent and correct perspective.

Our vantage point limits our capacity to see the whole event. This should make us humble. We must always be reminded that we only see part of the whole reality But it should not limit us to see things always in the right perspective. Seeing things with the right perspective inspires us to keep on going. It makes us feel at peace with what we are doing no matter how difficult and challenging they maybe. It It also assures us that we are being relevant, fruitful and meaningful.

Life is not about what you have but what you do with what you have. It is not just about accomplishing things but accomplishing them with the right purpose and the right way. It is not about feeling for what you are losing in giving but what you are gaining in the process of giving.

Perspectives...perspectives...perspectives...There are actually many. But only God's is the true one!