Still Imperfect

“STILL IMPERFECT” is the thought that came to me while serving at a Eucharistic Celebration. It dawned on me that all of us who were serving as Ministers in the Mass, including the Presider, can make some mistakes. It could be in the way we talk, mispronounce words, or in the way we act, not bowing or genuflecting in the right way.

Pondering further on the significance of this observation, I realize that, indeed, I should accept the fact that I myself am STILL IMPERFECT. There are still a lot to do to overcome my imperfections. Throughout my whole life I have to struggle towards perfection. This perfection, I believe, can be attained only with the Grace of God and only when one is already fully united with God in a state of being we call HEAVEN.

This reflection made me consider my relationship with my fellowmen. Aware of my own imperfections, should I not see that others too have their own imperfections. Hence, if they do something that may not be right, is that not part of their imperfection. If so, should I not be more tolerant with them and make allowance for their imperfection by being patient and slow to anger?

With this reflection I now see the wisdom of “FORGIVENESS”. In the prayer that our Lord Jesus Christ taught us, He emphasized the act of forgiving others, so we too could be forgiven. This act of forgiveness is based on the fact that all men are born imperfect, except Our Blessed Mother Mary, who was already Perfect from the moment of her conception, for which reason she is called THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION. Since all men are imperfect, or sinners as we often hear, there is a need to bear with one another’s imperfection and help one another towards the pursuit of perfection.

With the grace of God I have now come to see even those who have hurt me with a forgiving heart. Actually as I was walking towards my residence this morning, my eyes met the eyes of someone who has badly hurt me and I managed to greet him raising my hand and with a smile on my face. Inwardly I gave allowance for his imperfection and prayed that somehow he will cooperate with the grace of God to overcome his defects and become less and less imperfect.

I am STILL IMPERFECT. To become less and less imperfect, I have formulated this prayer: “Lord God, may everything I do begin with You, continue with You, and end for You.” I trust that with this prayer I shall be given the grace to overcome my imperfections and be more tolerant to the imperfections of others.

by: Salvador 'Buddy' Cagurangan
September 19, 2010