ERNIE MAIPID, JR
‘Papu, let’s play monster truck!’ my 3-year-old grandson, Caelan, looked up at me as he waved his red toy. I bent carefully, kissing his head top, warmed by his gentle heart!
I thought about his innocence in the face of my realization about ‘vulnerability’.
A while back, I was overwhelmed by the realization that ‘our vulnerability’ was the centerpiece of my faith learning at 70. No wonder Jesus said, ‘Unless we become as children….’
It overcame me that unless we realize our unworthiness, our being ‘made of clay”, we will never understand why a big God can dote on a small, insignificant wretch and patiently accord him His daily mercies!
And, in similar accord, realize how we all are of one stuff and all in great need – why we are called to extend love and care to one another.
I thought about humility. The virtue has always captivated me. All my life, I had struggled to honestly put God first, saying, ‘Life is never about me! The pursuit of His honor and glory always take precedence!’
‘Papu!’ Caelan tugs at my shorts. His calling me rings a bell. I remember first encountering the term ‘Papu’ when I was Caelan’s size. ‘Papu’ was how we called God in the family! Now, I am Papu myself! Big, and yes, confirmed 70 years over! But greatly humbled by a loving, tender, merciful Father!
I AM BLESSED to have realized this Wisdom, even in this late season!
I am with my wife and three children here in Brisbane! I am humbled to see so much goodness passed on through generations. I am actively pursuing my ‘Papu’ responsibility of passing on the faith to our eight grandchildren. I am deeply, more than grateful!
A BIG, s m a l l God has led me here!