“Hope is the key to life.” This was the central message of Cardinal Jose Advincula as he spoke to thousands of devotees during the Feast of Jesus Nazarene at the Quirino Grandstand in Manila.
In his homily, the prelate called on the faithful to live with hope in Jesus and obedience to His teachings, saying, “As long as there is hope, there is life!”
The celebration, one of the most significant Catholic events in the country, centered on the theme “Obedience is better than sacrifice for those who put their hope in Jesus” (1 Samuel 15:22).
Cardinal Advincula urged devotees to reflect on how hope and obedience define true devotion to Jesus Nazareno.
Hope as source of life
The Archbishop of Manila emphasized that hope sustains life, offering a different take on a familiar Filipino saying.
“There is a better lesson from the Beloved Señor: instead of ‘As long as there is life, there is hope,’ His teaching to us is, ‘As long as there is hope, there is life!’”
He reminded the faithful that hope in Jesus gives meaning and strength to life. “We cannot live without hope. A person without hope is lifeless,” he said.
The Cardinal also highlighted the living presence of Jesus Nazarene. “Our hope is alive because He is alive. He lives in our hearts. He lives around us. He lives with us. Let us no longer live lifelessly. As long as there is hope, there is life. So let us live in hope in Jesus. Viva Jesus Nazareno!”
Obedience as sign of true faith
In addition to hope, Cardinal Advincula highlighted the significance of obedience, using Jesus as the ultimate example.
He explained that Jesus remained obedient to the will of His Father, even to the point of death, demonstrating that His obedience was rooted in love.
The Cardinal underscored that love for God naturally leads to obedience, and true hope in God is expressed through following His will.
He encouraged devotees to reflect on their actions and consider their priorities, emphasizing that true hope can only be found in Jesus Nazareno.
He cautioned that placing trust in material wealth, immoral influences, or harmful habits ultimately leads to disappointment, reminding the faithful that only Jesus offers unwavering hope and reliability.
Cardinal Advincula encouraged the faithful to express their hope through obedience. “Hope in Jesus and obedience to Jesus: these are the marks of a true devotee. Let us promise these to Jesus. He is the only one we can rely on. He is the one we should always follow,” he said.
