Concern for Others

by: Dr. Laurence C. Mascay

​The Lenten Season has been just barely over. It is a commemoration of the great concern Jesus Christ has for the people He came to save from the power and penalty of sin - which is eternal separation from God. Such a great concern that the Lord, who is in very nature God, humbled himself by becoming obedient to death on the cross. It is because of such concern that man has now the opportunity to be forgiven for his sin and be bestowed with an everlasting life with God in heaven if he repents and embraced Jesus as Savior and Lord.  
 
When we experienced how God is concerned for us through His salvation, intervention, protection, and provision we can’t keep it to ourselves. Rather, we want other people to experience it too. Just like the men in the book of Matthew did, it says, “When the men of that place recognized Jesus, they sent word to all the surrounding country. People brought all their sick to Him and begged Him to let the sick just touch the edge of His cloak, and all who touched Him were healed.” 
 
Concern for others is a Filipino trait that is visibly seen and deeply felt especially in times of crisis. We call it damayan and bayanihan. Wherein various groups and individuals, alongside the concerned government agencies, initiates and spearhead donation drive, search and rescue operations, and livelihood programs for the victims of various catastrophes such as floods, earthquakes, landslides, fires, and Covid-19. It is to somehow alleviate the misery of the affected individuals and help them recover and continue with life with the hope of a brighter future. A religious leader says, “If we develop concern for other people’s welfare, share other people’s suffering, and help them, ultimately we will benefit. If we think only of ourselves and forget about others, ultimately we will lose. The more we care for the happiness of others, the greater our own sense of well-being becomes." 
 
Each one has his way of showing concern for others - to an office mate, friend, neighbor, classmate, and even a stranger. However, we have to be intentional in doing so. Because every person we meet - in the office, in the school, in the mall, on the road, or wherever bears some burden or wrestling with problems or in a turmoil situation one way or another. Consequently, let us be more gracious with our words and be mindful of the tone of our voice, let us be more patient and understanding of our erring colleagues, let us pray for the success of others and help them succeed, and may we have a hearing ear and a shoulder for others to count on. The Scripture says, “Be kind to one another, be compassionate to one another, and forgive each other.” Accordingly, let us exhibit some concern for others today.