Greater Hunger than Rice Could Satisfy

A Look Into A Controversial Painting

After the painter, Joey Velasco treated them, he started working on this painting. These 12 children aged 4-14, are discovered in poor areas of Metro Manila and Quezon City. Their stories revealed a story of a greater hunger than a place of rice could satisfy. This photo opened the eyes of many and captured a dimension of hope to all Filipinos. This calls us to sympathize with the poor and to manifest our Christian responsibility for the common good. Presently, there are people who suffer in hunger, calamities and war. But they do not conquer us, because we are persons who are motivated and who never give up. We are united in the spirit of solidarity. It is part of our vocation to recognize other’s need. Truly, the role of the Church is to guide people’s faith and assembled under the love of Christ. The Church reminds Christians to make an effort so that we can make a difference. It is not actually easy to give up something for the sake of others even to love our enemies. It requires a transformation by learning to be selfless and humbling. It is God who first inspires our desires and so we become an inspiration to all.

According to CBCP President Bishop Socrates Villegas, “the poor are the favorites of God.” It means that God listens to the cry of the poor. He rescues his people from poverty by giving them instruments in helping them to live good and to help them realize that God’s loving presence is with them Joey found Christ’s presence to these little ones. He witnessed the smiles of children despite their poverty.

Happiness is indeed a choice and it entails sacrifice to experience its fruit. I am reminded that I am a “beggar” in front of God. He is the only One who can give me strength in times of trials. His love inspires me to go the extra mile and to keep moving for the good of his Church. Indeed, my theology background and hospital exposure help me understand that God has a purpose in my life and it is to contribute something in the ministry of service. (Argie P. Ybañez)