As Lent was supposed to be a time for silence and peace, bombs and missiles roared in a war started on February 28, the first Saturday of Lent. Stemming from unresolved conflicts and misunderstandings, tensions arise when one feels more powerful or superior, and when revenge is seen the only option.
I believe that in war, there are no true winners, as it claims many innocent lives and causes suffering and trauma for the people involved.
The Middle East holds particular significance for me because I have briefly visited Dubai during a stopover on my way to Africa and Doha, Qatar, while returning to the Philippines. Every experience in my life, whether good or bad, carries meaning and purpose.
Sadly, we have seen Filipinos killed in the airstrikes hit by the fallen debris. We worry for our family members, friends and all Filipinos working in the Middle East. They live in immense fear as they hear loud bangs of air strikes and everytime the sirens sound telling the people to go to the nearest bomb shelters. They would always imagine this might be their last day. We pray for their safety all the time and that war will end.
The Filipino spirit of heroism shines the brightest even in this time of war. Some have sacrificed their lives for their wards. All we can help during this difficult time is prayer.
Our thoughts go to the people in Middle East and other countries in war and conflict. May the love and peace of God reign and may the resurrected Jesus bring healing and reconcilation, soften hearts of the leaders and give comfort and consolation to all the victims. Amen.
Lynn Salinas-Batoliño
The Philippines
