How Trouble Trains Us

Do you know that trouble teaches us to empathize with and serve people who are in distress. When going through tough times, our tendency is to focus on ourselves—the “me trap.” Jesus’ desire is for us to be people-centered and not me-centered. He teaches us to serve and wash the feet of our brothers and sisters; to put them first, not our own selfish motives.

Our pain and hardships teach us to have a compassionate heart towards others. I am proud to share the “Community Pantry” here in the Philippines that taught people to give despite economic crisis because of this pandemic. People can donate a piece of egg or even fruits and vegetables they harvested from their backyard. And those who are in lack can freely get food from the community pantry. Their slogan is “Magbigay ayon sa kakayahan, Kumuha batay sa pangangailangan (Give based on the ability. Take as per the need).” This became viral that people from different locations in the Philippines also created their own community pantries to help even in simple ways.

Escaping the “me-trap” requires a change of perspective. Instead of thinking, “What do I need today?” change in into “How can I be a blessing to others today?”