‘Sacrifice for others’

MANILA, Philippines - President Aquino reminded Filipinos yesterday to emulate Jesus Christ and sacrifice for others.

In his Christmas message, Aquino said offering oneself to others is not an obligation but a form of sacrifice for the common good.

He said Filipinos showed their strength in rising from tragedies and doing whatever they could to ease the burden of those affected.

“Perhaps, this is the most valuable lesson given to us by the Lord Almighty: Let us do all that we can and let God, the Father, fulfill what is lacking. The Lord offered His begotten Son, Jesus Christ, and He served as a good example. He was not obligated, He was not forced by anyone, He chose to sacrifice as a man and save mankind from sin,” he said.

The President said the story of Christmas started from the Three Kings or Wise Men, who despite the darkness of the night, managed to find Jesus in a manger in Bethlehem guided by a star that shone brightly throughout their journey.

“From the much smaller things being asked of us, would we still be inadequate? I suppose we should not be,” he said.

He called on the people to bring love and hope to their fellowmen and celebrate Christmas as a united country.