“Our country enters the phase of naked display of aggression. When a regime is morally bankrupt it will use immoral means to hold on to power. We might be weak but we still have the power of prayer & silent witnessing. . The unjust may break our bones but they can’t break our spirit.”
- Rev. Fr. O.C. Lim, SJ
These words spoken last year by the Reverend Father O.C. Lim, a Jesuit priest, have become a spiritual guide in my own reflection and practice as a Christian and pastor.
On 23 January 2009, I was glad we had a chance to speak a little bit more in depth when we were present with many others to be in solidarity with the 21 participants in the BERSIH anniversary candlelight vigil on 9 November 2008 who were charged for illegal assembly.
Fr. Lim was initially asked to give some comments by a Malaysiakini reporter:
upon which I took the golden opportunity to do a short interview of my own asking Fr. Lim what motivates him in the core of his being where he draws strength and resources to do what he does in speaking up for justice.
While there maybe needs and issues which call us to respond to different situations, and often these become the common ground in which many of us converge and join efforts for the common good. What interests me is apart from that starting point which is more visible to others, how about the less visible and often more central place where we which is unapologetically part and parcel of our who we are?
I started with the question with a “What” focus, but Father O.C.Lim answered by reframing the question to focus on “Who” motivates him.
And who he talked about motivates me too. Thanks for affirming that, Father O.C. Lim! Your words continue to challenge us all to be more faithful to the One who has called us to follow him.
The Micah Mandate is a Christian-based public interest advocacy ministry that seeks a transformation of our nation through justice, mercy and humility.
