The 8th Misa de Gallo in preparation for the Nativity of the Lord was presided over by our Parish Priest Rev. Fr. Ferdinand Delatado.
Fr. Ferdie shared that his dog died last week and while he was looking for a new pet to take care of, he stumbled upon a fish, specifically the ‘Arowana’. As he researched, according to the Chinese it is lucky to take care of. As a result, numerous people made it a pet.
According to his research, Arowana’s nature in reproduction is rather peculiar. When the female Arowana lays eggs, the male store them inside their mouths for 50 days. The male is unable to eat which is a form of sacrifice. And when the offspring escapes from the mouth, they are now a fish.
“The silent love of a father is sacrifice.”
The reason why he told this story is that it is similar to the Gospel. Zechariah, the father of John the Baptist, was unable to talk for 9 months. In those periods of time, he contemplated what happened to him, what will happen to his son and his doubtfulness to God’s plan. In those moments of silence and contemplation, he realized his duty.
“God acts quietly.”
There are times when we can say that God is silent. Especially when we encounter hardships in life that we thought he is not with us because he doesn't do something. However, we must never forget that he quietly acts.
He recounts that Jesus was born on a silent night. Similar to the song ‘Silent Night, Holy Night, All is calm’. Silence will soon be followed by a surprise from God.
“If silence is God’s reply, it is better that we also learn to be silent.”
As Fr. Ferdie concluded his homily, he reminded everyone to contemplate and give thanks, and importance to all fathers that are silently sacrificing for their families. Regardless of their imperfections and negligence. We still have a father and a God who is always there, silently loving and accompanying us in every step we take.
Article by: Athea Baranda
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