Jesus Christ has shown the true meaning of being an “authentic” child of God, Manila Archbishop Jose Cardinal Advincula said.

“He demonstrated to us how to be truly and fully human. How to live as authentic sons and daughters of God during both easy and difficult times to the very end even unto death,” said Advincula during the celebration of the Passion of the Lord at the Manila Cathedral on Good Friday, April 15.

The cross that Jesus Christ was carrying on his way to his crucifixion “represents the many victims of the evil in man's heart—of jealousy, pride, betrayal, denial, abandonment, injustice, violence, and death,” said Advincula.

“His open wounds make us aware and feel the deep unscathing physical, psycho-emotional, and spiritual wounds we all bear. As the crucified Jesus identifies with all those who are spurned, mangled, crushed, and afflicted, it would be a mistake not to turn our gaze as well to the scourge, pierced, and crucified among us,” he said.

The prelate said that the victims of the pandemic, war, calamities, corruption, crime, poverty, among others— need help, attention, and care.

“To these cross-like realities, we can respond in two manners. On the one hand, we can wash our hands like Pilate who had a glimpse of the truth about Jesus but could not stand up for the truth due to socio-political pressures and the propensity for self preservation,” he said.

“On the other hand, we can imitate Mary who, being a woman in a patriarchal society, stood by the cross of Jesus—not frustrated or defeated but bravely taking a stand with and for others— and other unjustly condemned and oppressed in the world,” he added.