"The pandemonium that ensues once the Black Nazarene is brought out of Quiapo Church is often driven by the devotees' uncompromising desire to touchthe image [or the rope that pulls its carriage] in the hope of experiencing a 'miracle'. But regardless of their motivation, to many of them, the Nuestro Padre Jesus Nazareno is their Provider, Confidante, and Friend for whom they would not mind experiencing some physical discomfort."It's just so heartbreaking that they had to endure such physical pain - being pushed, trampled on, etc. just for their unwavering devotion to the statue. The words "physical discomfort" is such an understatement based on what I saw on the newscasts.
One needs not to go to a procession and to endanger himself just to follow a sacred vow. I totally agree with the parish priest of Quiapo Church. He said that parishioners need not to go to Quiapo on the feast day to be blessed by God. God (in their context, the Nazarene) is waiting for them every single day in church. I think that a miracle can simply be experienced by thanking God on whatever blessing He has given.
Yet more deeply, I believe God doesn't reside in tangible things such as sculpted images, church buildings and other objects we call 'sacred'. We can experience God in our hearts through His word, connecting with Him daily 'in spirit and in truth'.
No comments:
Post a Comment