When the first disciples chose to follow Jesus, they didn’t understand all the implications of their decision. They simply responded to Jesus’ invitation. That was all they needed to get started: making a decision to become a disciple.
The disciples of Jesus faced different challenges when they decided to follow him but their commitment towards him was unshakeable. Despite those threats, mockery, and hardship they faced, the disciples’ fidelity grew stronger even to the extent of losing their lives before different crises.
For migrant workers, they similarly need to make a decision when they apply to work overseas to improve their economic status. It can be an impulsive decision as they assume that working away from the country is the best choice to achieve all the dreams and hopes they desire. It is indeed undeniable that working abroad can be really attractive as it has its benefits such as good salaries. But at the same time, they should also consider other issues, consequences and uncertainties along the way.
The situation and the family responsibility of every migrant worker is different. The problem of a single person may be more manageable, while those with children may have a heavier burden. Homesickness, loneliness as well as the new lifestyles and practices in a materialistic foreign land may make them vulnerable to different temptations. As a result, they may forget their commitment or their primary purpose of working abroad which is the betterment of life for their loved ones.
If migrant workers have a weak sense of commitment, the promises they once had before leaving their families can be put out of their minds. The bond they once developed with God may dissolve as temptations affect their relationship with their family.
Even the promise to love, honour and obey their spouse can be forgotten due to temptations. If marriages dissolve, the outmost effects to the children is immensely dreadful.
Be loyal to commitments with sheer willpower is never an easy task. You will constantly feel resistance, which creates constant internal stress so eventually you may give up and embrace the temptations that can destroy the marriage commitments.
There is a better way to resist temptations and be true to your commitments as the scripture says, “Do not conform yourselves to this age but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and pleasing and perfect” (Romans 12:2). The first step in spiritual growth is to start changing the way you think. The way you think determines the way you feel, and the way you feel influences the way you act. There must be a spiritual renewal of your thoughts and attitudes.
So if God is your strength for whatever you do, your commitment towards your loved ones has already built a strong foundation which cannot be ruined by any temptation.
As we celebrate the 500 years of Christianity in the Philippines. The Chaplaincy to Filipino Migrants organises an on-line talk every Tuesday at 9.00pm. You can join us at:
https://www.Facebook.com/CFM-Gifted-to-give-101039001847033
You should perpetually think of your loved ones instead of yourself and start to act maturely as what disciples did. They disregarded their worldly needs and thought of the others first as God instructed them to be. If you fall short of your commitments, ask for the guidance of our God constantly and remember that the reason for working away from your loved ones is for their better future.
I am a firm believer that if we have a strong commitment, our lives will be shaped according to the efforts we choose to make. We become what we are committed to.
Juvie Gayoso
Immaculate Heart of Mary-Saturday Group
