Faith Touches Our Deepest Desire
On the 2nd day of the Triduum, Rev. Fr. Robin Lomangkok concelebrated the mass with Rev. Fr. Paul Kee, Rev. Fr. Dom and Rev. Fr. Loi.
In his homily, on the theme Seed of vocation, Fr. Robin asked a few probing questions:
How are the vocations of the martyrs connected to our lives?
He said vocation comes from a Latin word (vocare) means to call or calling. It is God who initiates the call. Martyrs are witnesses of God and as a result of their openness they allowed the seed of vocation to grow in their lives.
What is the seed of our vocation?
Faith in God is the seed of vocation. Faith touches our deepest human desire- to belong. Faith gives birth to life’s meaning (our vocation).
Where do we get the seed of vocation?
Through our own experience, encounter with God, sacraments, Gospel and family members especially the elders.
How do we respond to the seed?
God calls us to work in his vineyard, go beyond ourselves. This call cannot remain as a seed but has to grow.
Fr. Robin then explained the 3 categories of vocation from the book the Pope and CEO by Andreas Widmer:
- Universal vocation- all are called to know God, love Him and serve Him
- Primary vocation- married life, priesthood and consecrated life
- Secondary vocation- is about using your talents and gifts in the service of God whether at home, in church or society and to bear the cross patiently.
How do I make the seed to bear fruit?
To bear the struggles and challenges that we are faced with.
How did Sts Chastan and Imbert respond?
Sts. Chastan and Imbert endured suffering but also produced joy. The seed of vocation gave strength to bear suffering. The seed inspired them toward martyrdom.