“Believe me you fit in,” Ryan Seacrest told American Idol wannabe Renaldo Lapuz in going to Hollywood. If it was meant as a compliment, it could be that Lapuz was unique and had something special to offer. Singing his original song, “We’re Brothers Forever”, the Filipino contestant gave all that he had, entertaining Simon Cowell and bringing Randy Jackson and Paula Abdul to join in the singing. While the show presenters may have thought of making a laughing stock out of him, Lapuz instead stole the hearts of viewers. When told that he failed in the audition, the man accepted the rejection without any rancour. He thanked the judges and the show for giving him the opportunity to share his talent and song. He found it a “privilege to sing to the whole world.”
What did Renaldo do that made him memorable? For one, he was true to himself. He did not pretend to be someone else. He stuck to his ordinariness, and just gave it his best shot. Secondly, he exemplified humility. He took no offense when asked to sing over and over again while everyone else in the room laughed at him. Thirdly, he was pure in heart. His message of friendship, peace and hope through the lyrics of his composition and by assuring the acerbic Cowell that he is well-liked created a positive impact on everyone who viewed the show live and even those who saw the repeats.
When Galilean fisherman Simon Peter went to the heart of the Roman Empire, it must have been an overwhelming challenge. He was not going for an audition rather he was tasked by Jesus Christ to establish His church. "I also say to you that you are Peter, and upon this rock I will build My church; and the gates of Hades will not overpower it. (Matthew 16:18) Accepting his human frailty, St Peter went about doing God’s business with humility and being pure in heart. He was crucified; but then he had succeeded in firmly putting the foundation of the early Christian church.
It takes a lot of courage to do pursue something outside of one’s comfort zone. More so if you know that you will be subjected to scorn, ridicule or worst, death. But for as long as one dares to do what is right and good, one has God’s protection. “Be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” (Joshua 1:9)
There may be times when we think little of ourselves and surrender to the belief that we cannot really make a difference in the world because of our ordinariness. Think again. The Lord gave me this message: “I knew you before I formed you in your mother’s womb. Before you were born I set you apart and appointed you as my prophet to the nations.” (Jeremiah 1:4-5) Each one of us is a star in the eyes of God and He wants us to shine in the stage He sets for us. Delight Him by doing your role memorably – and be assured that in His Kingdom you fit in.
by Mel Libre
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