World Youth Day 2011 was an experience unlike any other. In the short but meaningful two-week journey in Spain we are confronted with our ultimate mission and thus answer life’s biggest question: What is my purpose in life?
In the deepest recesses of our heart, we long to find meaning to our existence. In our search, we find ourselves lured by the attractions and pleasures of the world. We become absorbed in temporal things, identifying ourselves with the things that we have – letting our clothes, money or wealth, define us. Most of us believe that the more we accumulate, the more we become happy. Yes, it is true, but as the things we acquire are temporary so our happiness is as well. Most youths today become lost in the world in their effort to find themselves. But in this pilgrimage we are led back to our faith, we are brought to marry ourselves with our mission, and to become Christ’s witnesses and messengers in our community and even to the entire world.
In our entire journey I believe, God has allowed me to be closer to Him - He let Himself be known to me more. Here we are taken away from the comfort of our homes, relying on each other, relying on God. The pilgrimage was not easy but the presence of our fellow brothers and sisters in Christ and our constant prayers made our personal crosses easier to carry.
It was only then that we are stripped off our selfish selves that we realize what we are called to do. With the guidance of the Holy Spirit, we realize the importance of the church, our Christian family, though not perfect as we are not, but guardians of the faith, as we ought to be. This is the community who would bring us to our feet when circumstances cause us to stumble. We direct each other to keep in the path of Christ.
It doesn’t take a journey like this to know your purpose or to be called to your mission. Our life is a whole journey. Every moment is an encounter with Christ. Every moment we are called to BE for Christ. To lead, serve, and love others so that His name may be glorified.
In a society consumed by the deceitfulness of the world, we the youth are called to stand firm in the faith. We are called to be defenders of our beliefs by anchoring on His word and to hold fast to Christ – make Him be the center of our lives. Let us be consumed by His love for us and let this love forever shine.
[caption id="attachment_423" align="aligncenter" width="510" caption="Viva el Papa"]
[/caption][caption id="attachment_422" align="aligncenter" width="510" caption="World Youth Day 2011 Novaliches Delegates"]
[/caption]“Rooted and Built Up in Jesus Christ, Firm in the Faith” (cf Col 2:7)
World Youth Day 2011
To God be the glory, forever and ever.
-----------------------
For DSP Newsletter
