A Life of Tests, Difficulties and Suffering

Socrates "Bro Soc" Fernandez is a respected figure among Catholics in Cebu and neighbouring provinces. He is a leading Catholic defender who knows the Bible through and through, quoting passages with ease and precision. He is not afraid to debate with anyone who challenges the teachings of Christ or those who undermine the Catholic faith. He hosts a radio program as well as a television show. Bro Soc is acknowledged as a true servant of the Lord.

His exemplary service and sterling leadership, in addition to his personal integrity, caught the attention of politicians who lured him to run for elective positions that he handily won. Currently, he serves as mayor of Talisay City, a growing community south of metropolitan Cebu. Though he is accustomed to criticisms as a public servant, he has been brought under intense pressure – not because of any wrongful act that he committed, rather as a result of alleged criminal acts of his adopted son. By attending to his son, who has yet to be charged in court, but has been convicted in a trial by public opinion, Bro Soc has been castigated for his conduct, and there are even sectors seeking his resignation.

To be a follower of Christ means a life of tests, difficulties and suffering. "For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps." (1 Peter 2:21) The Apostles as did many early Christians underwent persecution and faced death for following the path of Jesus. In these modern times, Christians in China, India and Iraq suffer for their belief. Christians who earn a living in the Middle East pray in closed doors under threat of prosecution. Even in predominantly Catholic countries, those who stand by the letter of God’s Word are scrutinised, if not humiliated. "Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution." (2 Timothy 3:12)

As followers of Christ today, we too will individually experience trying moments. "For unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for his sake." (Philippians 1:29) But we should never give up. God is the defender of his children; He is with us today as He was in the past, as He will be in the future. "And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together." (Romans 8:17)

by Mel Libre