HUNGER FOR THE AUTHENTIC

In my many travels through Narita airport, I have often seen people being accosted by authorities on account of one and only one recurrent reason. They carry fake signature items like bags, or other personal items that steal the thunder from real products that fetch mighty sums from the real well-to-do people from around the globe.

No matter what the ultimate reason for that, there seems to be something that all of us can understand. We all long for the authentic. We hunger for the real, the true, the unalloyed truth in everything.

Matthew Kelly (2002) writes that “our age seems to be governed by illusion and deception.” He says “We have built a whole culture based on appearance.” I could not agree more. All the fake products that we see are really based on the value people attach to the real stuff.

We all hunger for the authentic, the tested and true.

One story that I remember an old Indian missionary kept telling us as kids was about the hunger for authenticity of the great Mahatma Gandhi. He would often quote the Gospels and talk about Jesus Christ. When asked why he did not become a Christian, his answer was as pithy as it was soul-searching: “If I had met one, I certainly would have become a Christian.”

The implication was clear. For all that statement was worth, it reminds us just how far we all are from genuineness and authenticity. I see the story of the visitation of the Blessed Mother to Elizabeth as one of authenticity. One who herself was visited by God, who was then most likely still reflecting on the reality that just hit her at the archangel Gabriel’s annunciation, went in haste to visit a cousin in need.

Mary was authentic in her need for complete understanding as well as in her desire to help a relative in need, though needy herself. And her authenticity and simple and humble attachment to a God of promises led her to a declaration of authentic faith, hope and love for the same God who fulfills His promises: “My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord!” Fr. Chito Dimaranan, SDB

 

Reflection Question:

Are my actions reflective of who I am as a Christian?

 

Dearest Father, help me to be true to my identity as Your child.

 

St. Crescentian, pray for us.