A father to be proud of

The top sports caster of Hong Kong, 伍晃榮, who had retired 3 years ago, died this evening in Princess Margaret Hospital. He is survived by his wife and 2 sons who were at his deathbed. The elder son made a public statement to the mass media. Being myself a father, I was very much impressed by one of his utterances: "It is a blessing to be his son. I am proud of my father." I think most, if not all, parents would very much like to hear this from their children. Mr. Ng can pass away without any regrets.

A man has not yet grown up even after getting married. Only after the arrival of the first baby has he suddenly matured overnight. Becoming a father puts more responsibilities on a man's shoulder and responsibilities spur a man towards maturity. You have to think twice, or even thrice, before you spend any money, make any decision and take any action.

Then my attention turns to the reading today. After washing the feet of his disciples at the Last Supper, Jesus told his disciples to follow his example to serve each other, to love each other. Then he said a curious sentence.
I am not speaking of you all; I know whom I have chosen; it is that the scripture may be fulfilled, 'He who ate my bread has lifted his heel against me.' (John 13:18)
We know that Jesus was telling his disciples that one of them would betray him and that was Judas. I wonder if Judas was married and had children. The gospels are silent on this point. I further wonder if Judas had children, would he choose to betray Jesus? No matter what, Judas has been set up to serve as a warning to us all that we must think twice before we take any action. Not only will we regret. Our children will also be leading a shameful life for the rest of their life!
Earlier on, Jesus said the following statement.
Truly, truly, I say to you, a servant is not greater than his master; nor is he who is sent greater than he who sent him (John 13:16).
We are Jesus' servants. Our master was a carpenter and had rejected Satan's offer to acquire greatness. Yet, he has achieved greatness through his lowliness and obedience to God's will. Here lies his greatness, not through waging military might nor accumulating wealth, but doing God's will. He taught us that the poor, the mournful, the meek and the merciful are blessed (Matthew 5:3-11). I pray that my refraining from applying for SGM is doing God's will. So far, I see Mr. John Wong becoming more spiritually empowered. I see stronger religious atmosphere fostered in Shung Tak. Had I taken up the SGM post, I would not have achieved better. God's will be done. Amen.

My sweet Jesus, help me become a more responsible husband and father. Bless my parents and my children. May they live in Your peace forever and ever. Amen.