As the nation marks National Seafarers Day on Sept. 24, Antipolo Bishop Ruperto C. Santos cited the valuable contributions of seafarers to the country’s economy.

“Without their dedication and sacrifices, the world economy would not advance,” said the bishop who also serves as the CBCP bishop promoter of Stella Maris Philippines.

“The focus of the National Seafarers Day this year is the role of seafarers in protecting the marine environment. The urgency to protect the ocean can be seen and felt, especially by the thousands of seafarers across the globe. We can’t ignore the impact of human activity on our marine environment,” said the Church leader who advised seafarers “to be grateful, to give their best and to never grumble.”

“Consider yourself blessed that you have stable jobs. Unemployment and underemployment are two of the most prevalent problems in our country. Work is a gift from God. It does not only give us financial compensation but it also allows us personal growth and gives us a sense of purpose. A grateful heart is a reflection of God’s goodness in our life. Do not boast or be conceited of your achievements. Instead, credit all your successes not to your own goodness, but to the goodness of God. As His children, we are called to give thanks in all things,. Reflect gratefully on what you have accomplished. Evaluate what lies ahead and prayerfully plan. Ask God for His guidance. Then, continue to persevere until you fulfill God’s purpose in your life.,” the bishop said.

“Secondly, give your best. Colossians 3:23 says: “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for The Lord, not for men.” Whatever position you might have in your company, big or small, always give it your all. Commit your work to the Lord in all your lives. Your manners at work reflects your faith. It does not matter what role you have or what position you are holding. Your faith will inspire you to be good employees. You will give your best out of reverence to God.=Whether you secure a job with long-term or short-term contracts,  allow God to use you and your skills to fulfill His purpose ,” said Bishop Santos.

 The prelate likewise reminded seafarers not to grumble but to always be thankful for the opportunity to work.

“Do not grumble. There should be no place for grumbling among the children of God. Grumbling is a sign that gratitude is missing. It shows  discontent and lack of thankfulness. If we truly have faith in God, we will be free from complaining, comparing, and contradicting. Instead, we will cultivate a heart that is thankful in all circumstances. We will cooperate with the people we work for and those we work with. We will be content for what God has graciously provided for us. We should do our job diligently with what God has uniquely gifted us. Do not worry about the work of your coworkers, whether they are lazy or not doing their job well. God can see everything. He has eyes that never sleep. God is pleased when we work hard on the job He assigned to us. Do not compare what your coworker is getting paid to yours nor be critical of other people’s promotion. He will reward us on the day we stand before Him. Do not be concerned about the opinion of your coworkers or seek your boss’ approval of your work. It is God’s approval that should matter the most. When  you focus on pleasing Him, you will always conduct yourself in the right and joyful manner. When your eyes are focused on your heavenly reward, you will turn any hint of grumbling to gratitude,” he stressed.

Bishop Santos urged seafarers to help preserve and protect the marine environment in the performance of their duties.

“To you, our dear seafarers, I encourage you to perform your job diligently in safeguarding our marine environment. Stay committed to your work. You play an important role in protecting ocean wellness. Whether you are an experienced seafarer or an amateur. Be faithful to what God has called  you to do. Always remember to be grateful, to do your best and to never grumble,” he said.