Freedom: A Gift and Responsibility

Freedom is a special gift from God. It is not reserved for a privileged few but is given to all of us. However, this gift only finds its true meaning when exercised in love—because its very source is the God who loves us and calls us to love in return. Freedom, then, is best understood in the context of relationship. As a gift, it carries a missionary dimension: we are called to use our freedom according to the life God desires for us.

But if freedom is God’s gift to humanity, why do we witness so much injustice, corruption, violence, and greed in the world? Why do people continue to fight one another? Why is the gap between the rich and the poor growing wider? Why so much exploitation and suffering? Perhaps we are left wondering: What has happened to this gift God has given us?

In the Philippine context, we are weary of hearing the same problems repeated over and over—stories of broken systems, dishonest leaders, and unfulfilled promises. How long must our country endure these issues that continue to hinder true progress and inclusive development?

One important aspect of freedom that we often overlook is our power to choose. This right belongs to each of us, and we must not let others dictate our choices. As law-abiding citizens, we share the responsibility to discern and choose leaders who have both the heart and the vision to guide our nation toward integral development—where no one is left behind.

It’s true that the future lies partly in the hands of our elected leaders. But we must also remember: the kind of nation we build depends just as much on the kind of voters we choose to be.

As the national and local elections draw near this Monday, May 12, 2025, we are invited to be more prudent and prayerful in our choices. Let us vote according to our conscience, prioritizing the common good over personal gain. We’ve already heard various campaign promises, propaganda, and even witnessed scandals such as vote buying. But now is the time to ask ourselves:
Am I using the gift of freedom the way God wants me to?
Will my vote serve the good of others, especially the most vulnerable?
Will I participate in this election as an act of solidarity with those who dream of a better tomorrow?

As we prepare to enter our assigned precincts in just a few days, may we do so with a deep sense of responsibility. Let us ask the Spirit of the Risen Lord to guide our choices, giving us the courage to break the cycle of corruption, injustice, and greed. Let us believe that, through this sacred act of voting, we can make a difference—one that honors the freedom God has entrusted to us.

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