Semana Santa takes on a deeper meaning this time around because of the pandemic. It’s been a “kalbaryo” for the entire world. But the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) health scare is nothing compared to the sufferings that Jesus endured for us.
The virus serves as a wake-up call. COVID-19 could very well stand for C-hrist O-ver VI-ruses and D-iseases 1:9 (Joshua).
In observance of Holy Monday, I asked some celebrities which Bible verse comforts them the most during this time of uncertainty. Mine is Matthew 6:25-34. When there seems to be no way out, we just have to look up to Him. Our faith will determine our fate. When all else fails, God’s power prevails.
OGIE ALCASID: For me, this verse in the bible is what God promises to us if we repent and pray: 2 Chronicles 7:14. It says, “If my people, who are called by My name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land.”
Lucy Torres-Gomez
LUCY TORRES-GOMEZ: Psalm 91. We have been praying that as a family since the flashflood of 1991.
Cherry Pie Picache
CHERRY PIE PICACHE: Mine is Luke 22:42, which says, “Not my will but Yours be done.”
Miriam Quiambao-Roberto
MIRIAM QUIAMBAO-ROBERTO: There are many verses that speak to me. One of them is Philippians 4:6, which says, “Do not be anxious about anything but in everything, in prayer and petition with thanksgiving, present your requests to God and the peace of God which transcends all understanding will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.”
In the midst of this pandemic, there is much to worry and be anxious about, but I find encouragement in this verse which encourages me to bring everything up to the Lord in prayer and God will guard my heart with Christ’s peace so that I don’t feel anxious anymore.
Another verse that I hold on to is Psalm 91. It’s quite long to write here, but it’s a promise from God that he will provide rest, protection, deliverance and safety to those who seek refuge in Him, and to those who love and trust Him.
Lara Quigaman-Alcaraz
LARA QUIGAMAN-ALCARAZ: Ephesians 6:12: For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.
ALEX MEDINA: My favorite personal quote from the bible is Jeremiah 29:11-13. But in this pandemic, what gives me hope is my girlfriend and my baby … to keep on fighting and living until this is over. They motivate me to move every day and give me strength and happiness. INQ