Patience and Perseverance

What attitudes and behaviors help us to work for the good of others? Eng’r. Edgardo Bacus’ answers: Patience, and Perseverance. Eng’r. Bacus - "Bong" to friends - retired a few years back, and almost immediately served as Chapter Head of the Brotherhood of Christian Businessmen and Professionals – Mandaue West. He has since passed on the responsibility to younger leaders. Here he reflects on his service as Chapter Head:

“Patience and perseverance are important in our service to members of the BCBP. Each member grows at his or her own pace in his/her spiritual journey. I realized that God was calling me to have more patience in guiding those who had been entrusted to me. I had to take the necessary time and effort, with each member, to understand them, so we could provide right guidance.”

“We also need to persevere in encouraging our members to take steps in faith. I believe God has given me the gift of encouragement—to uplift, guide, and inspire others to grow in their relationship with Him. I use this gift especially in helping those who graduate from the Christian Life Program (which is how they become members of the community).”

He invited new members to serve as Masters of Ceremony in their breakfast meetings. “This built their confidence and made them active in the community.  Later, new members were encouraged to share their faith stories, knowing that each member’s testimony can inspire and strengthen others.

“But our mission does not stop with our gatherings. We are also called to serve in the community—in our families, workplaces, and outreach programs, living out our faith through action.” Sometimes a member backslides and needs help to get back to their feet. “Through all of these, leaders must persevere with patient love and guidance, following Paul’s instruction to the Galatians, ‘Serve one another humbly in love.’”

What helped Bong Bacus to persevere? It was his desire to see his fellow members grow in confidence, in service, in their relationship with God. He believed that with constant encouragement, they would step forward, and he would see transformation — in the lives of others, and in his own life - for the good of the community and for the glory of God.

Where do you feel called to be more patient? What helps you to persevere?